January 04, 2003(9)
THE ULTIMATE, THE COMPLETION OF THE PURPOSE OF THE LORD. The Lord is the author and creator of new things. This present universe and world is destined for oblivion and is to be replaced by an entirely new heavens and a new earth. From the very beginning of our spiritual journey and experience we are made new creatures in Christ Jesus. The new heavens and new earth will never be contaminated by sin, sickness or death. It is the abode of all that is eternal. Beginning with an eternal God and Father to each and every occupant, they are all beings of life everlasting. Rev. 21:5
THE BRIDE. The New Jerusalem is the bride of Christ. She is a being of extreme, perfect and absolute beauty. Her splendor and elegance is equal with that of the Lord himself. She is totally < prepared>. Rev. 21:2 How vital that is. To be ready for the most magnificent wedding of time and eternity. Surely, the very prospect of such an occasion would stir the deepest emotions of our spiritual nature. What a marvelous privilege to be come bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. To be united with Him in marriage. The only union of two completely similar beings. A glorious wedding for glorified creatures. Eph. 5:27 As difficult as it is for some to receive, the wedding of Christ and His church is the next important even scheduled by the Lord for His people. The preparation of herself must be the imperative and concern of the church today. There will be a people who are ready for that day when it dawns, regardless of where others stand spiritually. Rev. 19:7 Each and every one of us are fully responsible for our own preparedness. The Bridal gown is a gift from the Bridegroom. Its value is priceless beyond measure. It is not something that has any other origin but very God Himself. It is that fine shining linen, so brilliant and pure. A condition that God and God alone can create. The holiness and purity of this Godly marriage is equal to the righteousness of the Lord Almighty. There is no contamination. All impurities will have been utterly removed. Rev. 19:8
THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF HOLINESS APPLIED TO THE BRIDE. There is no compromise to be found in this Bride. She is wholly dedicated to the Lord and to the execution of His perfect will. His desires are hers. She will submit to each and every suggestion of holy living that He will present to her. Sanctification is not a strange word to her. She is in total submission to the Word of the Lord and it is the element that is used to sanctify her. Her cleansing is absolute. Her submission is complete. Her cleansing is perfect until there is no contamination to be found in her. SHE IS THE EPITOME OF ALL THAT IS GLORIOUS. Her glory is the glory of the Lord. A gift which He has bestowed on her. Eph. 5:25-26 She is to be the show piece of heaven for eternity. Loved and displaying the mighty effects of that great and marvelous love of God. Eph. 2:6-7