V Hidden Treasures And Priceless Secrets

Article aZ 1999

Chapter 1

Jesus speaking of the extremely valuable knowledge and treasures which God has ordained for His children to possess said the following; "And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, {42} Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes." (Luke 19:41-42). Oh if the reader and the writer could and would only get a glimpse of those treasures that God has reserved and laid up for those who seek and love God with all their heart, what a difference it will make in our attitudes and our goals! Yet how sad it is, that these true riches are hidden from the eyes of most! Following are several Scriptures concerning these treasures and secrets; aZ-1

(Isa 64:4) "For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him." aZ-2

(1 Cor 2:9) "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." aZ-3

(2 Cor 12:2&4) "I knew a man in Christ ...caught up to the third heaven. ...How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.". aZ-4

(Psa 31:19) "Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!" aZ-5

(Prov 22:4) "By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life." aZ-6

(Prov 3:13-16) "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. {14} For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. {15} She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her. {16} Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour." aZ-7

The above Scriptures clearly reveal there are great riches and treasures laid up in store for those who love and fear the Lord! Jesus speaking of these treasures said the following; aZ-8

(Mat 13:44) "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." aZ-9

(Mat 6:19-20) "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: {20} But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:" aZ-10

Following are several Scriptures which reveal who those privileged people are, to whom God will reveal these priceless secrets and give these treasures; aZ-11

(Luke 10:21) "In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight." (Note Matt 11:25 reads practically the same). aZ-12

(Isa 35:8) "And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein." aZ-13

(Psa 25:14) "The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant." aZ-14

Note how the above Scriptures reveal that those who in purity and child like humility seek these secrets and treasures can find them! Oh may God bless both the reader and writer with such humility and purity! aZ-15

V Christians in times past knowing the value of the treasures and secrets that God will give to His own, gladly gave their lives to attain them. Apostle Paul speaking of these treasures said; "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Rom 8:18). Apostle Peter whom much of our present world adores for his Godly character, in seeing these treasures and riches felt unworthy to martyred in like manner as was his Saviour thus requested to be crucified upside down rather than upright as was Christ. Moses in seeing these treasures chose "rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;" Hebrews 11:25. Abraham seeing these treasures thus was motivated to look "for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." (Heb 11:10). The following Scriptures reveal that some of these treasures are already given to the Christian in this present world; aZ-16

(Mark 10:29-30) "And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life." aZ-17

(1 Tim 4:8) "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." aZ-18

The following Scriptures of Ecclesiastics reveal that man by his inborn nature or instinct cannot see and perceive eternal and heavenly things; aZ-19

(Eccl 3:11) "He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end." aZ-20

(Eccl 3:22) "Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?" aZ-21

(Eccl 6:12) "For who knoweth what is good for man in this; life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?" aZ-22

(Eccl 8:7) "For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?" aZ-23

(Eccl 10:14) "A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?" aZ-24

Apostle Paul speaking of man by nature being unable to perceive eternal and heavenly things said; "For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. ...But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." (1 Cor 2:11&14). aZ-25

Jesus knowing that man is unable to perceive eternal and heavenly things through the facilities of his natural mind or instinct (such as is received through his natural birth), thus said, "...Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. {6} That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. {7} Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." (John 3:3&6-7). Jesus then several verses later said, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. {12} If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?" (John 3:11-12). John the Baptist later in this same chapter said, "He [Christ] that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. {32} And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony." (John 3:31-32). aZ-26

Although man by his first and natural birth cannot see and perceive eternal and heavenly treasures, yet man by being born again and being born of the Spirit can see and perceive eternal and heavenly treasures! Man by his first birth has five senses which are, tasting, smelling, seeing, hearing, and feeling, which senses all pertain to earthly things. Man by his second or Spiritual birth receives another sense which is by far the most important sense, and which pertains to sensing eternal and heavenly treasures! Apostle Paul speaks of the Spirit of God revealing Spiritual and heavenly things to those who are born of the Spirit saying, "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. ...Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual." (1 Cor 2:9-10&12-13). Paul in speaking of how God's Spirit gives the children of God sight and vision that is hidden from those lacking a second birth said, "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." (1 Cor 2:7-8). aZ-27

V Many Scriptures pertain to this hidden or secret wisdom which God gives to His children! This hidden wisdom is the heart and core of true Christianity and without it Christianity is like a car without a motor, merely a form without the motivation! Possessing this hidden wisdom is one with possessing a living or genuine faith. Apostle Paul speaking of how a genuine faith teaches and assures one of eternal and heavenly things said, "Now faith is the substance [solid assurance] of things hoped for, the evidence [proof] of things not seen." (Heb 11:1). The writer likes the NIV translation of this verse which reads, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Heb 11:1). When one assuredly sees and perceives these eternal treasures it will have much affect upon him. Peter speaking of such affect said, "For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." (Acts 4:20). Jesus speaking of this affect said, "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:38). The Bible often speaks of the importance of FAITH, because the FAITH of which the Bible speaks involves being assuredly aware of God's eternal treasures and secrets! Such a faith is alive and works. This faith does a work in those who possess it and causes those who possess it to bring forth good fruits and works! Apostle Paul speaking of the affect of perceiving eternal treasures through the inspiration of the Spirit of Christ said, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Cor 5:17). This faith is a great treasure which creates an unearthly peace and joy in it's possessors. Jesus speaking of this peace said, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27). Apostle Paul speaking of this peace and joy said " "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." (Rom 15:13). The Christian's faith is priceless, it is out of this world! Do you possess it? Jesus speaking of these things said "If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." (John 15:19). aZ-28

The faith and hidden wisdom given to the Christian by God's Spirit, is referred to in the Scriptures in different ways and using numerous different names, yet these different expressions largely enclose the same Spiritual revelation. Following are several Scriptures which pertain to possessing a Spiritual revelation from God, which speak of this Spiritual revelation in numerous different ways; aZ-29

(John 6:45) "It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me." aZ-30

(Mat 16:16-17) "And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. {17} And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." Please carefully note how Jesus did not bless Peter, merely because he had said "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" but because a revelation from God rather than the teachings of man (flesh and blood) had taught and assured Peter that Christ was the Son of God. aZ-31

(Acts 1:5) "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." aZ-32

(Jude 1:3) "...exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." aZ-32.5

(Heb 8:10) "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:" aZ-33

(1 John 2:20) "But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things." aZ-34

(1 John 2:27) "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him." aZ-35

(Heb 6:5) "And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come," aZ-36

(John 14:21) "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." aZ-37

(Col 1:27) "To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:" Note when the Spirit of Christ truly dwell within an individual, it instigates a living hope of Glory! aZ-38

V Apostle Paul in speaking of the secrets and treasures which the true Christian is privileged to possess used the term "unsearchable riches of Christ" (Eph 3:8). The treasures and secrets that God gives to His own are real and are of unspeakable value, and God gladly gives them to all those who truly are hungering and thirsting after righteousness and who fully love God and the truth. Yet God has seen fit to keep these treasures and secrets hidden from those who love themselves more than God and truth, and who are not willing to sell out for Jesus' sake. Jesus in speaking of these treasures and of selling out to attain them said; "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. {45} Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: {46} Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it." (Mat 13:44-46). Oh may the reader as well as the writer sell all for Jesus' sake! Selling all, is the solemn commitment of putting Christ first in our lives. It will be the best deal we've ever made! The unsearchable riches of Christ's will be ours for now and eternity! aZ-39

Following are several verses that clearly reveal that those who do not hear the Word of God with a sincere heart and ear and who do not love the truth, will be stripped even from that little spiritual perception they might have, while those who listen with an open ear and who love the truth will receive wisdom and treasures in abundance!; aZ-40

(Luke 8:18) "Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have." aZ-41

(Mark 4:24-25) "And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. {25} For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath." aZ-42

Three other Scriptures like the above two Scriptures, speak of God taking away the little that the unrighteous have, while giving more, to the righteous who already have much. Following is one such Scripture; aZ-43

(Mat 25:29) "For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath." Note Luke 19:26 and Matt 13:12 state very much the same. aZ-44

Clearly God gives abundantly to those who are open hearted and who are in connection with God and His Spirit! Yet it appears when one does not listen with an open heart and ear but rather listens with a critical or closed ear, that God further takes away their ability to see and perceive Spiritual and eternal truths and gives them over to a great blindness. The following Scriptures further pertain to such; aZ-45

(2 Th 2:10-12) "And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. {11} And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: {12} That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." aZ-46

(Rom 11:8) "(According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day." aZ-47

(Isa 29:10) "For the LORD hath poured out upon you the spirit of deep sleep, and hath closed your eyes: the prophets and your rulers, the seers hath he covered." aZ-48

(Mat 13:14-15) "And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: {15} For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." aZ-49

(John 12:39-40) "Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, {40} He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them." aZ-50

Numerous other such Scriptures could be given. Thus it clearly is as Jesus repeatedly said, God takes away the little the unrighteous have while giving more to righteous who already have much! Mat 11:25 reads "At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes." Note how this verse not only teaches that God reveals His secrets to babes but also teaches that God intentionally hides these things from the wise and prudent. One should consider the wise are prudent likely would be those who too much think they already know it all and are not truly hungering and thirsting for righteousness. It appears when one learns in a proper way although he finds many good answers, yet he also becomes aware of many new things that he knows very little about. aZ-51

Following are two verses which further reveal that those who are wise in their own eyes and who have closed their eyes to further light or understanding will miss God's eternal treasures and secrets!; aZ-52

(Isa 5:21) "Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!" aZ-53

(John 9:39&41) "And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. ...If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth." The aspect of Jesus blinding the seeing and giving sight to the blind closely connects to Luke 1:52-53 which reads, "He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. {53} He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away." aZ-54

Those individuals who recognized their own blindness in the respect of realizing they were very far from knowing it all and who thus wanted to see farther were privileged to perceive and see Christ's secrets, but those individuals who were wise in their own eyes and thought they were already seeing it all, were blinded from seeing Christ's secrets and were condemned! aZ-55

Apostle Paul speaking of those, to whom these eternal secrets and treasures are hidden and unseen said, "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (2 Cor 4:3-4). aZ-56

In the following Scripture Jesus further reveals who those are to whom God will reveal His secrets and give His treasures; aZ-57

(Mat 5:3-10) "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. {4} Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. {5} Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. {6} Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. {7} Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. {8} Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. {9} Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. {10} Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." May we all earnestly endeavor to have these vital attributes whereupon God can bestow His blessings! aZ-58

Those to whom God has revealed His treasures and secrets in one respect will be meek, and in another respect will be bold. Following are several Scriptures which reveal such; aZ-59

(James 3:17) "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." aZ-60

(Acts 7:51) "Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye." Although Stephen here spoke very boldly and sharply rebuked these individuals yet he soon kindly prayed for them as follows, "And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep." (Acts 7:60). aZ-61

(Prov 28:1) "The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion." aZ-62

The Word of God involves two aspects. The one aspect of God's Word could nicely be called God's living Word, which Word is God's voice and revelation to man through His Spirit which assures and teaches one of eternal and heavenly things, while the other aspect of God's Word is the written word of God which is the Bible. To see and perceive the secrets which are made manifest by both the living and written word of God, one must listen to both God's living and written word with a pure heart and with a true hunger and thirst for righteousness, otherwise God will blind him from the truths and treasures which His living and written word will reveal! aZ-63

Chapter 2

Considering and Discovering the Secrets and Treasures Contained Within the Written Word of God.

Following are several Scriptures pertaining to properly understanding the written word of God; aZ-64

(2 Tim 3:16) "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" aZ-65

(2 Tim 2:15) "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." aZ-66

(Acts 17:11) "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." aZ-67

(2 Cor 4:2) "But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God." aZ-68

(2 Cor 2:17) "For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ." aZ-69

(2 Pet 3:16) "As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction." aZ-70

(1 Tim 5:17) "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine." aZ-71

(1 Tim 4:13-16) "Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. {14} Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. {15} Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. {16} Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee." aZ-72

The above Scriptures clearly reveal a proper understanding of the Scriptures is very important, and reveal that the Bible must be considered honestly and carefully to be understood properly. aZ-73

Apostle Paul speaking of the Christian building properly and building on a proper foundation said "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. {11} For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Cor 3:10-11). aZ-74

V A mason lays his blocks or bricks according to a string he has tightly stretched between two points. Sometimes if the string is very long, the mason will add a support to keep it from sagging or to keep the wind from blowing the string. This support is called a trig. To set the trig properly one must make sure the trig is perfectly in a straight line between the two end fastening points. If the string is properly fastened on it's two ends and properly supported it is a very accurate guide showing exactly where the edge of each block should go. A string as such thus is a very valuable tool. Yet a string as such can very easily be altered and made inaccurate by any little object that might be pressing against the line. aZ-75

V The Bible and truth have many similarities with a masons line. A mason's line is very accurate, yet it does not force the mason to build properly. So also it is with the Bible and truth, although they are very accurate, they yet force no one to follow them. Any little pressure that might be applied to the masons line can easily alter or distort it's position making it misrepresent where the brick should be laid. So also it is with the Bible and words of truth, by wrong pressures being applied to the them, they can easily be distorted and made to misrepresent what God really meant or what really is right. Just like a mason's line must be treated with care so it can be a accurate guide to the mason, so the Bible must be treated with care to be an accurate guide to the Christian. Are you treating your Bible line with care, and adjusting your life to fit the line, or are you adjusting the line to fit you life? The writer must ask himself the same. aZ-76

V To know the truth one must, firstly make sure the line it is properly fastened onto the Word of God on both ends, secondly make sure it is not improperly supported, and thirdly make sure his own desires are not pushing so hard against the line that they are altering the line's position. One can easily push the line to where he would want it, yet such obviously does not change the truth. Today it appears man has stretched out many different and faulty strings whereby men are guiding their lives. Such lines are faulty either because of not being fastened properly to the Word of God, or because faulty trig supports are supporting the line, or because of personal pressures being applied to the line. It appears many individuals today feel their Church has authority to support or align their string, insomuch that they in inspecting their string, stop at the points where their Church has placed trig supports on the string, and never bother checking if the ends of their string are fastened properly, or whether their Church's trig supports are properly placed. It is sad that many individuals are carefully lining up their lives with strings that are altered and faulty. Have you dear reader honestly done your part in establishing and promoting a proper string for yourself and for others? aZ-77

It appears Christ at times intentionally made some statements which were almost impossible at the moment to understand in the right way, and rather were very possible to understand in another and wrong way. Concerning such statements of Christ's, it appears Christ largely intended that they should be misunderstood by many or all of His listeners, until a latter date. Two such statements of Christ's here follow together with some comments; aZ-78

(John 2:19-21) Note Jesus made this statement, immediately after He had quite violently cleansed the Jew's Temple at Jerusalem of those who bought and sold therein and was questioned about doing such, "Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body." According to verse 22 of this chapter it appears even Christ's disciples never really knew that Jesus here was speaking of raising up His body rather than the Jew's Temple, until after Christ resurrected from the dead. Some of Christ's listeners who were not earnestly and honestly seeking the truth, but rather had a fault finding attitude, were so offended and confused about this statement, that when Christ was on the cross they railed on Him saying, "...Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross." (Mat 27:40). aZ-78.5

(John 6:52-56) "The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? {53} Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. {54} Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. {55} For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. {56} He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him." Verses 60&66 then read, "Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? ..From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him." Jesus after speaking as such, in verse 63 told His disciples "It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." Thus Christ here was speaking of eating and drinking the Spirit of Christ that dwelt in Christ's flesh and blood, rather than speaking of eating Christ's literal flesh which Christ said profiteth nothing. aZ-79

The wise and prudent (proud in heart, haughty) in hearing Jesus' above statements likely became permanently confused and offended while the earnest and sincere seekers in due time were greatly inspired in learning what Jesus in these statements really meant! Likely Jesus spoke as above, as a means to divide those casual, curious, or fault finding people in the multitudes (who were not earnestly and sincerely seeking for God's secrets), from those sincere individuals who were already seeing some of God's secrets and who wanted to learn more of His secrets. Are you really earnest about knowing the truth, or are you a curious and casual seeker? aZ-80

Following is another statement of Christ's which also could have been quite misunderstood; aZ-81

(Mat 24:34) Note Jesus made this statement after speaking of His return and the end of the world. "Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled." Christ's disciples could have easily understood this statement of Christ's, to mean that Christ would return, and the end of the world would come, while they yet lived. Yet Christ may have been speaking of His generation of chosen and faithful people existing till His return. aZ-82

Although parables can be used to clarify things, yet they also can be used to make things more obscure, being somewhat like a riddle. Ezek 17:2 speaks of a parable being a riddle. Psalms 49:4 & 78:2 speak of parables as dark sayings. Proverbs 26:7&9 speak of parables being a snare to fools. Although Christ's parables now seem simple to us, yet when Christ first spoke them, His disciples even did not even know for sure what He really meant until He explained them. The disciples wondered why Jesus at times spoke parables to the people, rather than simply clearly saying things as they were. The following Scripture pertains to such; aZ-83

(Mat 13:10-12) "And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables? {11} He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath." Again note how Jesus here indicates that He was intentionally keeping things from some and was revealing them to others. aZ-84

Just like Christ spoke parables and said some hard to understand things as above, possibly God has inspired other Scriptures to be written in a way as such, to confuse and offend those who are not earnestly seeking the truth, which Scriptures yet can be found very meaningful to those who earnestly and sincerely search it out! Prov 2:3-5 reads, "Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; {4} If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; {5} Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God." aZ-85

Considering how many Scriptures speak of God blinding and confusing the obstinate, and considering how many Scriptures speak of God teaching and enlightening the sincere seeker, it is clear God has seen it best that those who do not love the truth and the ways of God, should not be able to understand the ways of God together with those who love God and truth. It could well be that God ordained that the obstinate individual and the sincere seeker should be disagreed as such, to thereby cause a distinct division between such types of people. aZ-86

Many secrets are hid from the wise and prudent (proud and haughty), which secrets are revealed to those who recognize themselves as babes before God. 1 Pet 2:2 reads, "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:" The Christian needs to be willing to learn as is a young child, and needs to quickly forgive as does a young child, yet the Christian is not to lack knowledge and understanding as do young children. Apostle Paul speaking of these things says, "Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men." (1 Cor 14:20). Oh may the reader and writer be teachable before God and His Word, as a young child is before it's parents! aZ-87

Isaiah speaking of the unspeakable greatness of God said, "Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance?" (Isa 40:12). Elihu speaking to suffering Job, of the power and knowledge of God said, "Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?" (Job 37:16). Considering the greatness and perfect knowledge of God it is obvious that God is able to give man whom He created, a law and teachings that can be understood. Considering that God loved man so much that He gave His only Son to die so man could be saved, it also is clear that God in giving man a law and teachings whereby he can be saved, would give him a law and teachings such as man can understand if he sincerely and earnestly wants to. aZ-88

The Bible does not oppose itself. If the actual meaning of one Scripture would oppose or contradict with the actual meaning of another Scripture, the Bible obviously would be found faulty. Man dare not interpret one Scripture in a way that will conflict with another Scripture. All Scriptures in the Bible must be recognized by their true purpose which if properly done the Bible will not oppose itself and will make good sense, because a God of perfect knowledge and perfect power is the author thereof! Yet it is true some parts of the Bible are prophesies which might not be intended to be understood until God's appointed time, and also is true that some things are hard to be understood. aZ-89

V The many verses in the Bible can be likened to pieces of a puzzle which pieces must be rightly divided or organized and rightly put together to show the right picture. Satan in tempting Christ and endeavoring to mislead Him, misapplied numerous verses rather than applying them in their ordained place, and thus misarranged the pieces of the Bible puzzle (Matt 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13). When the pieces of the Bible puzzle are misarranged and forced together where they really do not fit, untruth and deception results. Yet when the Bible puzzle is properly put together many priceless secrets and treasures are revealed! aZ-90

V Are we honestly giving the pieces of the Bible puzzle the total liberty and freedom to show their own picture, or are we trying to make them show a picture such as we desire or are promoting? May all, including the writer, honestly ask themselves that question. If concerning one particular subject or doctrine, the Bible can be said not to mean exactly what it says, how can one believe that the Bible means exactly what it says concerning any other subject and doctrine?. aZ-91

V Firstly because of Satan's deceptions, secondly because God has hid many things from the wise and prudent, and thirdly because of man without true sincerity trying to put Scriptures together in a way that suites their unsanctified or carnal wishes, the Bible puzzle has been put together in many improper ways. Thus the very same pieces of the Bible puzzle have been made to portray many false pictures, of which some pictures are greatly different than other pictures. Many people today, simply pick the picture that suites them the best and do not carefully inspect if the pieces in that puzzle are properly put together. Some people if they see a few pieces that look like they fit together quite well, if they like what that picture portrays, check no closer but accept that picture as truth. Some pictures without a close up study, appear to be quite genuine, yet a close up study reveals some strange cracks and color discrepancies between the pieces that are a dead give away concerning it's falsity. Concerning the Bible picture that you have accepted and are trusting in, dear reader have you carefully inspected the pieces and checked if they are properly put together? aZ-92

Jesus speaking of some who were promoting false and man made doctrines rather than sound doctrine said, "But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." (Mat 15:9). How many groups or churches are guilty of this? Concerning some faulty Bible puzzles it appears those who put them together over emphasize particular pieces of the puzzle and put such pieces in the very center and forefront of the puzzle and then did not give proper regard to the many other pieces that then cannot be properly placed in the puzzle. Many individuals as they endeavor to put the Bible puzzle together do not love the truth more than themselves therefore they force pieces together that really do not fit if such is to a personal advantage. The sincere lover of the truth will put the pieces together where they fit even if in hurts one's popularity, pleasure, or purse. God has not made a puzzle that can be put together in two or more ways which portray conflicting pictures, nor has he made a puzzle which cannot be correctly put together! Although Satan and man have greatly confused the Word of God, God did not give man a Bible that cannot be understood but God's written Word is understandable and makes sense! aZ-93

It appears many of the strong differences in understanding the written word of God as are seen today, is caused by people having been taught differently concerning what the Bible means for many generations. In our day it appears many people are so accustomed to seeing the pieces of the Bible puzzle put together in a particular way that even if they are forced together and wrongly placed the picture yet seems genuine to them. It appears after being taught that particular verses fit here and other verses fit there, and after being accustomed to the picture portrayed by the pieces being placed as such, it is very difficult to visualize these verses or pieces fitted together in a different way. aZ-94

V May no one think that a particular Bible puzzle is to be accepted on the basis of the importance of the people who put it together as such, but rather remember if the puzzle is put together correctly it will show it's own truthfulness to those who inspect the puzzle. When one has properly put the Bible puzzle together, they will have good reason for what they say. Jesus had good answers for those who asked Him about His doctrine and His reasons made good sense. aZ-95

Although the Christian desires and needs the Spirit of God to help him put the Bible puzzle together correctly, yet when it is put together correctly it makes good sense. May no one think that the Spirit of God revealed to him that this is how the puzzle must go together, while yet many things about this puzzle do not make sense or properly fit together. May the writer as well as the reader be open and willing to acknowledge if they have put any part of the Bible puzzle together wrongly or if we have accepted another's faulty arrangement of pieces. If a better way of putting the puzzle together is revealed, may both the writer and the reader be willing to change those pieces around in their puzzle. aZ-96

Concerning some who are holding to a particular false Bible puzzle, because of having been taught that way and ignorance, it appears such error is not necessarily counted as sin to them. Jesus speaking to some in His day said, (John 15:22&24) "If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father." Note how these verses reveal that these individuals were not condemned for their error until better and clearer truth was revealed to them. The writer believes and hopes there are many under this mercy in our time of 1999. Yet also note how this Scripture reveals that after Jesus had revealed to them the truth, their previous ignorance no longer was excusable! May we not be found guilty of stubbornly holding to a wrong view of a Scripture even after a better interpretation thereof has been revealed to us. aZ-97

The Scriptures speaking of Apollos an early Christian read, "This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. {26} And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly." (Acts 18:25-26). Apollos then later was very fruitful in he work of the Gospel. May we all be willing to learn as was Apollos! aZ-98

It appears many might continue to hold to a wrong view of the Scriptures simply because they are not willing to admit that the view of the Scriptures they had promoted or excepted was and is wrong. Such is likely one of the greater reasons mankind is so divided and disagreed on their views of the Scriptures. May the writer as well as the reader carefully beware lest we stubbornly hold to an improper view of the Scriptures! It obviously is far better to admit our errors than to stubbornly hold to a pet or desired view, as those who resist the truth rather than earnestly seeking it will be blinded and condemned, rather than privileged to learn and possess the unsearchable riches of Christ. aZ-99

V God would likely say the following to many who say that they are His children and who yet are so divided; My written Word (the Bible) is not impossible to understand and can be understood by those who are sincere and who with a pure heart love the truth. God likely would also say my children do not have reason or excuse for having strong and unsolvable disagreements among them concerning that which My written Word teaches. God would likely say those areas and prophesies that are not so clear in My Word can be understood by My children as being unclear and My children thus do not have reason or excuse for strongly disagreeing on such unclear things either. aZ-100

Apostle Paul speaking of how God's people should be united in the same mind and judgment said, "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment." (1 Cor 1:10). Although Paul promoted that God's people should be perfectly agreed in their beliefs, it yet is true that God for the reasons of tradition and conscience permits lessor and insignificant differences among His people. Such permitted differences are considered in chapters 3-5&11 of article bA (especially in paragraphs bA-5:6-10). Although God for particular reasons allows some differences among His people yet God obviously does not want His people to be divided on vital doctrines which are clearly taught in the Bible and which He has ordained that all should know and understand. Clearly God does not want His people to be in discord and disagreement about essential doctrines which he has included in the Bible, merely because of particular groups or individuals stubbornly holding to their past views, and not being willing to accept better or further light when it is revealed to them. How many of the many differences prevalent today, among those who call themselves God's people, really are justifiable in God's sight? aZ-102

Truth often times is very simple. Truth is not so complicated that only particular intelligent ones can learn and understand it. May Christians take to heart Paul's warning when he said, "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ." (2 Cor 11:3). May Christians also take to heart Paul's admonition wherein he says, "Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate" (Roman 12:16). Although Paul gave admonitions as above, yet many Christians have left the simplicity of the Gospel and in endeavoring to attain high things have turned to many supposedly honorable but complicated philosophies and theologies of the Bible which even they themselves largely do not understand. Paul speaking of such ones wrote, "Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: {6} From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; {7} Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm." (1 Tim 1:5-7). It is sad that many Christian teachers and theologians come under this high minded and prestigious but yet confused classification. Such erring ones often are forced to add further errors to their doctrines to defend errors they already are holding to. It appears such is what poor Augustine the teacher and theologian of the early Roman Church became entangled with. We too must be careful lest we lose the simplicity of the Gospel and begin honoring corruptible and depraved man and find ourselves turned to vain jangling understanding neither what we say, nor whereof we affirm. aZ-103

Too often Christians accept explanations of the Scriptures simply because they sound educated, honorable, and authorative. One should beware because such applausable explanations of the Scriptures can still very much lack being fully based upon simple and distinct truths of the Scriptures. Although false explanations of the Scriptures can very much be understood to be in agreement with some Scriptures, yet with regards to other Scriptures they are in disagreement. In finding the truth, one must find the solution that is agreeable with all Scriptures, not merely a solution that is in agreement with some Scriptures and yet in disagreement with others. False teachings have dark or gray areas which aspects of the teaching lack clear Biblical light and bases. 1 John 1:5 reads "...God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." God is a God of truth (Deu 32:4, Psa 31:5, Isa 65:16) and in His truth, is light and no darkness at all! aZ-104

V One should consider that concerning most every belief on earth there is some reason to believe what is believed. Yet it is sad that concerning many beliefs, there is not sufficient reason to believe what is believed but rather more reasons to believe differently than what is believed. One cannot know for certain where one went simply by knowing the direction he went in leaving, nor can one know for certain where one is simply by hearing of places where he stopped along the way. To know for certain where one went and where he now is, one must know for certain the end of their journey. Thus also it is with Scriptural teachings, one must follow a subject the whole way through the Bible to learn the truth of the matter. Too many Christian beliefs are decided upon using only the most visible or initial evidence and without considering the many possibilities beyond such evidence. Jesus speaking of things such as this said, "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." (John 7:24). Job 42:3 reveals that their might be somewhat obscure issues to consider before making decisions reading. "Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not." Although truth often times is very simple, in learning the truth we yet must be willing to consider those issues which we might not have thought of or heard of before. aZ-105

Christians might feel they have received a special enlightment in their personal study or feel that God gave them a special enlightment. This could very well be true, yet Christians must beware lest they have pet or favorite beliefs that they might be holding to and are unwilling to adjust even when further or clearer light is revealed. May the writer as well as the reader not hold to any particular belief in a haughty or prestigious way. May Christians rather, in loving their neighbor as themselves, be open to consider their brother's ideas and thoughts as if they were their very own! aZ-106

V Jesus said, the light of the body is the eye but if thine eye (judgment and perception facilities) be evil (prejudiced or dishonest) how great is that darkness (Mat 6:22-23). Concerning any doctrinal issue if one in reading or hearing is willing to exaggerate those evidences that promote what he wants to believe, and is willing to minimize those evidences that promote other than what he wants to believe, such an one's eye is evil and his whole body shall be full of darkness. May we beware lest our eye is evil and our body is full of darkness! Isaiah 44:20 reads "He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?" If we only feed on those evidences we like, and are overlooking or minimizing evidences we don't like, we are feeding on ashes and will have a deceived heart and will even become unaware that a lie is in our right hand. How dreadful! aZ-107

V May we not generate carnal answers to justify our beliefs or generate carnal accusations to degrade other's beliefs. Erring Christians in rejecting truths that they don't like find all kinds of problems, where their really is bountiful answers, and then turn around and find all kinds of so called answers where their really is mostly problems. Erring Christians strain at gnats and swallow camels (Matt 23:24). May we not do so! May we not fear change if it is for sake of the truth. The truth will never hurt anyone, but rather will make us free (John 8:32)! Concerning any subject may we freely and without fear, yet very honestly consider all Scriptures and evidences in learning the truth. May we love the truth even if it involves change, and may the Spirit of Christ lead us into all truth as spoken of in the following Scriptures; aZ-108

(John 16:13) "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come." aZ-109

(John 14:26) "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." aZ-110

May we have that attitude that King David did when he said, "Show me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. {5} Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day." (Psa 25:4-5), and said, "...cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee. {10} Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness." (Psa 143:8&10). And may God bless us saying, "I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye." (Psa 32:8)! aZ-111

The writer's pray is that many will truly have the hunger and thirst for righteousness where upon God will grant those treasures and secrets from His living and written Word which are worth far more than gold. The writer's prayer is that he and the reader can both properly understand the Scriptures, and both by the anointing of the Spirit possess that revelation or Spiritual sense that sees beyond this present world and into eternity! Dear reader, may we beware lest that happen to us which happened to those in the following Scripture; "In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." (2 Cor 4:4). aZ-112

May we never close our door to further understanding and correction, or those hidden treasures and priceless secrets which could be ours, will become inaccessible to us and we will be engulfed in blindness and deception possibly never to revive. May we not be like those who feel rich and largely feel they already know it all, and are merely casual seekers of the truth, but may we rather truly be hungry to learn more. Luke 1:52-53 concerning these things reads, "He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. {53} He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away." May we follow Christ's instructions wherein he said, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life..." and may we be like those of Berea, who "...received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (Acts 17:11). We should not expect the truth to be something popular, which we can learn and understand as we ought, using little effort or diligence. Prov 2:3-5 speaking of such reads, "Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; {4} If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; {5} Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God." Are we really seeking as such? In closing the writer would like to wish the reader access to those hidden treasures and priceless secrets which have promise of the life that now is and of that endless life which is to come. Farewell. aZ-113

(Count 10260 2/18/01)