Church Bride
"Pastor," [the salutation sounded like a question], "Do you think God is trying to shake us up? Get our attention? Remind us who He is?" asked a brother in the Lord.
The simple answer is "Yes." However, it should be noted that the desire of God has always been to see the whole world acknowledge the Gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Heaven gave its best for the redemption of all mankind (John 3:16,17). It is not the will of God that any should perish. Every soul is made by God for God's glory.
Hell was not intended for man. Every person who goes to hell will be an intruder into a kingdom made only for the punishment of fallen angels.
However, I suggest that God is up to something in addition to the general plan of salvation. He is aware that satan (I choose not to capitalize) has a following. He knows that many have willfully chosen to refuse the gift of Jesus. Many, too many, have chosen pleasures of this world for a season in preference to turning from sin and serving the Living God.
In the heart of God there is a determined and sovereign plan of redemption. He has destined to have a Bride. In the eternal plan of God there will be millions of people from all kindreds and tribes who will take up their cross and follow Jesus.
The Bible talks about the last days as being perilous times (II Timothy 3). People will love pleasure more than God. There will be religion with a denial of God. Current research indicates an increase in atheism in the United States. Perhaps even more dangerous is the indication that people are crafting their religion to suit their own values and lifestyle, while claiming to be spiritual or Christian.
We are attempting to correct the problems of the world without prayer. There is no call for our nation to look to God, to return to church, and to depend upon prayer as did our forefathers. The early history of our nation was wrapped in prayer. In all our ills as a nation we have historically been reminded to turn to God for His mercies.
There will be a Church. Jesus said so. Jesus said He will come back for His Church. There will be a wedding. This is figurative language. If a man loves a woman and pledges to marry her he will do anything in his power to have his bride. Jesus gave His life for the Church. He made a covenant for eternity.
The plan of salvation is intended for everyone. However, I believe the Holy Spirit is preparing the Church for the return of Jesus. There is a purging purifying fire sweeping through the Body of Christ. The Bride is being prepared for a Grand Reception in Heaven.
If you are looking to make sense out of Madoff, Ponzi schemes, stimulus packages, political maneuvers, talk show hosts, job stats, etc., consider how many brilliant people are devoting their entire lives to these subjects without any prevailing wisdom being apparent, i.e., no person seems to have the respect of nations and different parties to solve the socio-economic-political crises of our times.
My suggestion is that we choose the wisdom of Solomon. In his old age he came to the conclusion that serving God should be a prevailing choice made in youth.
Let me attempt conclusion of this letter in another way. If you want to understand what God is doing in our time, look to the Church. It is the redemption of the Church that will be the focal point of God's Plan as we approach The Coming of Christ for His Bride!
Pastor Bare
Ephesians 5:27 that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.(NKJV
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