10.21.13_Food For Thought “The Signs of the True Church!” By Dr. M.H. Salahshurian, Ph. D Revelation 3:7-8 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Reading the 1st and 2nd Thessalonians and 1st and 2nd Timothy in context, it is clear to see that the three signs of the last days are: Lawlessness, Apostasy and the rise in the number of the false Churches! It doesnt take a Bible scholar to remind us that all the three signs are on the rise; being fulfilled! In this particular article, I will be focusing on the third sign, “ the rise in the number of the false Churches.” As we shall see, a true faithful, fundamental Church is known by the commendation they received from the Lord Jesus. Of all the seven Churches of Asia, there were only two Churches; Smyrna and Philadelphia which did not receive warning or rebuke from the Lord. The Church of Smyrna, the (Martyr Church), were know for their tribulation (suffering), and for their poverty (being poor)! Yet, the Lord reminded this Church, “but thou art rich.” Revelation 2:9a. The Church Philadelphia, the Church of (brotherly love), were known to be “Weak,” to have “a little strength). Yet, it seems both Churches, in spite of their tribulation (suffering), and being “weak,” having “a little strength,” both were the strongest and most the favorite Church! THEIR SECRET: 1- THEIR FOUNDATIONS WERE BUILT ON THE WORD OF GOD AND THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS! SEE: ( 2 TIMOTHY 3:16; 2 PETER 1:20-21; 1 TIMOTHY 3:15; Matthew 16:18). 2 Timothy 3:16 “ All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” 2 Peter 1:20-21 “ Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 1Timothy 3:15 “But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.” Matthew 16:18 “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” 2- THEIR FOUNDATION WAS BUILT UPON THE WRITING OF THE APOSTLE AND THE LORD JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF! SEE: (EPHESIANS 2:20-22 ; 1 CORINTHIANS 3: 10-11 ). Ephesians 2:20-22 “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 “ According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” As we read Revelation 3:7-8 closely we find because of such solid foundation, this Church were given these eternal principles: An “Open door” and the “Key of David,” which suggests having an access to the treasure house of the King (1 Kings 7:51), and to Christs authority as the heir to the kingdom (Isaiah 22:22). FOR COMPARISON, READ REVELATION 3:14-18. More under “Tracts & Pamphlets” in the: theswordandshield
Posted on: Mon, 21 Oct 2013 07:57:11 +0000
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