The Millennium and Christ's Kingdom

Article aM

Part One,    Part one pertains to the Millennium

INDEX

Part One

     Chapter 1   Pertains to Satan being bound.

     Chapter 2  Considers Satan no longer deceiving the nations.

M     Chapter 3   Considers the reign of the souls of the Saints with Christ for a 1000 years.

     Chapter 4   Considers Satan being loosed again.

M     Chapter 5   Considers the subject of the end, and several related subjects.

     Chapter 6   Firstly considers Jerusalem and the seed of Abraham, secondly considers prophesies that speak of a special time and Kingdom to come, and thirdly considers prophesies concerning Jerusalem.

INTRODUCTION

Section 1

     Revelations chapter 20 repeatedly speaks about a millennium (1000 year period).  This chapter of Revelations often times will be referred to as the millennium chapter.  This chapter includes the subjects of Satan being bound, the nations being deceived no more, a particular 1000 year reign,  Satan being loosed, and about the end.  Following is given the millennium chapter together with numerous comments;     aM-0:1

     (Rev 20:1)  "And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand."       aM-0:2

     (Rev 20:2)  "And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,"      aM-0:3

     Satan bound for a period of time.  

     (Rev 20:3)  "And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season."       aM-0:4

     Satan bound, Satan can no longer deceive the nations, Satan loosed.     aM-0:5

     (Rev 20:4)  "And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years."      aM-0:6

     The wording "souls", and "were beheaded" in this verse indicates this scripture is speaking of a particular reign of the souls of those who had died or who had been martyred.     aM-0:7

     (Rev 20:5)  "But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection."      aM-0:8

     The wording "rest of the dead lived not again", in this verse also indicates that these verses are speaking of those who had died.       aM-0:9

     (Rev 20:6)  "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years."      aM-0:10

     The wording "first resurrection" could be speaking of the new birth or could be speaking of a resurrection which the saints after their death immediately experience, which resurrection the lost after their death do not experience.  The above verses 4-6 clearly are speaking of those who have died, and have experienced the first resurrection, experiencing a particular reign with Christ.     aM-0:11

     (Rev 20:7)  "And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,"       This verse, like verse 3, again speaks of Satan being loosed.     aM-0:13

     (Rev 20:8)  "And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea."     aM-0:14

     (Rev 20:9)  "And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them."     aM-0:15

     (Rev 20:10)  "And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever."      aM-0:16

     Punishment

     (Rev 20:11)  "And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them."     aM-0:17

     End of the world

     (Rev 20:12)  "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works."

     Time of judgment     aM-0:18

     (Rev 20:13)  "And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works."      aM-0:19

     Time of judgment

     (Rev 20:14)  "And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death."     aM-0:20

     (Rev 20:15)  "And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."

     Punishment     aM-0:21

     Firstly this article will consider the subject of the binding of Satan, see above verses 2&3,     aM-0:22

     secondly this article will consider the subject of Satan no longer deceiving the nations, after that he was bound, see above verse 3,      aM-0:23

     thirdly will be considered the subject of the 1000 year reign of the saints that have died with Christ, see above verses 4-6,       aM-0:24

     forthly will be considered the subject of the loosening of Satan after that he was bound, see above verses 3&7-8,      aM-0:25

     fifthly will be considered the subject of the end, see above verses 9-15.       aM-0:26

     These five subjects are considered in chapters 1-5 below.  The subject of the end which is considered below in chapter five is a vast subject.  Apostle Peter speaking of the end says the following;     aM-0:27

     (1 Pet 4:7)  "But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer."     aM-0:28

     (Acts 3:21)  "...until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began."      aM-0:29

     Jesus three times used the term "end of the world".  In studying the vast subject of the end, four related topics will be considered, which topics are Christ's second coming, the end of the world, the judgment, and the punishment of the wicked.     aM-0:30

Chapter 1

FIRST SUBJECT

Satan Bound

     The first subject (involving verses 2-3 of the millennium chapter) which pertains to the binding of Satan is here considered.  Their are several Scriptures which give enlightenment on Satan's influence, movements, and defeats, including him being cast out of heaven, and how he will in time be cast into hell.  Revelation chapter 12 gives much information concerning Satan's movements and defeats, including him being cast out of heaven.  The first 13 verses of this chapter are given below together with numerous comments.     aM-1:1

     (Rev 12:1)  "And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:"     aM-1:2

     (Rev 12:2)  "And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered."      aM-1:3

     This woman very likely symbolizes God's people of the Old Testament (Israel), the 12 stars on her crown the 12 tribes of Israel, and the child is Jesus who was born through the lineage of God's people Israel.      aM-1:4

     (Rev 12:3)  "And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads."     aM-1:5

     (Rev 12:4)  "And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born."      aM-1:6

     These verses portray Satan being in heaven at this time, and then coming to earth to devour the child as soon as he was born.  It might be worthy here to consider how King Herod tried to kill Jesus as a baby (Matt 2:13-18).     aM-1:7

     (Rev 12:5)  "And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne."      aM-1:8

     This verse tells of Christ's birth, tells of His supreme and unalterable authority and of His ascension to heaven.     aM-1:9

     (Rev 12:6)  "And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."      aM-1:10

     The woman here (as also in the first two verses) is God's people or church.  This verse tells of God's care over His New Testament kingdom or church.      aM-1:11

     (Rev 12:7)  "And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,"     aM-1:12

     (Rev 12:8)  "And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven."     aM-1:13

     (Rev 12:9)  "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him."      aM-1: 14

     These verses tell of war in heaven in which Satan lost his place in heaven, and together with all his angels was permanently cast therefrom, to the earth.  Please note that according to the above verses 5-9, Christ's earth life and ascension to heaven, preceded this war in heaven.  Verse 9 makes it quite clear that when Satan was cast out of heaven the earth was already in existence for it reads, "...he was cast out into the earth...".      aM-1:15

     (Rev 12:10)  "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night."     aM-1:16

     Note how the word salvation is used in this verse.  This verse reveals that Satan being cast out of heaven ushered in a new era for heaven.  It here appears salvation's plan was made more complete through Satan being cast permanently therefrom.       aM-1:17

     (Rev 12:11)  "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."      aM-1:18

     This verse may indicate that Christ's blood or sacrificial death had a particular part in casting Satan out of heaven.     aM-1:19

     (Rev 12:12)  "Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."     aM-1:20

(Rev 12:13)  "And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child."      aM-1:21

     These verses portray the blessed state of heaven when Satan was cast therefrom and makes it quite clear that the earth was already inhabited and God's people already existed on earth when Satan was cast thereto for they read, "...woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath...", "...when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman [Israel or church]..."     aM-1:22

     The following verses further indicate that Satan was cast out of heaven after Christ resurrected and ascended to heaven.     aM-1:23

     (Col 1:20)  "And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."  Note how this verse speaks of Christ's labors and victory involving things in heaven as well as earth.     aM-1:24

     (Eph 1:10)  "That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:"     aM-1:25

     (1 John 3:8)  "...the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."     aM-1:26

     (John 12:31)  "Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out."     aM-1:27

     (John 14:30)  "Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me."     aM-1:28

     (Job 15:15)  "Behold, he putteth no trust in his saints; yea, the heavens are not clean in his sight."     aM-1:29

     (Job 4:18)  "Behold, he put no trust in his servants; and his angels he charged with folly:"     aM-1:30

     (Jude 1:9)  "Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee." Note how this verse reveals a certain respect Michael, God's chief angel, had for Satan at the time of Moses.     aM-1:31

     The following verses from Job chapters 1&2 to some degree also indicate that Satan had power to move about from earth to heaven in Job's time;     aM-1:32

     (Job 1:6-7)  "Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them.  And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."     aM-1:33

     (Job 1:12)  "...So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD."     aM-1:34

     (Job 2:1-2)  "Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them to present himself before the LORD. {2} And the LORD said unto Satan, From whence comest thou? And Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it."     aM-1:35

     (Job 2:7)  "So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown."     aM-1:36

     Note in the above scripture the term "sons of God" quite possibly is referring to angels.  Job 38:4-7 calls persons that already existed when God created the earth, sons of God reading, "Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. {5} Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? {6} Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; {7} When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?"     aM-1:37

     Following is given a prophesy from Daniel which can nicely be called the seventy week prophesy;  This prophesy also indicates that Satan was cast out of heaven after Christ's ascension.        aM-1:38

     (Dan 9:24-27)  "Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. {25} Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times. {26} And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. {27} And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate."     aM-1:39

     This prophesy clearly foretells of the time of the Christ the Messiah, and clearly speaks of the victories that He won and the changes He brought about.  Addition eighteen which is given at the end of this writing quite extensively considers the above prophesy and explains how nicely the things prophesied therein all came to pass as foretold.       aM-1:40

     The above 70 week prophesy of Daniel's quite clearly speaks of a special time when a great victory over evil would be won and a time when our universe would enter a special new era of everlasting righteousness.  Note verse 24 speaking of this special time speaks of ending transgressions and sins, making reconciliation for iniquity, bringing in everlasting righteousness, and sealing visions and prophesy, and anointing the most Holy.  Revelations 12:7-10, which speaks of the time of Satan being cast out of heaven, like the above prophesy in Daniel, also speaks of a great victory over evil being won and of a very special new era for our universe.  Revelations 12:10 reads, "...Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down...".  Note how this verse states "Now is come ...the kingdom of our God".  It appears to the writer that the prophesy in Daniel concerning a future time of great victory and a special new era in our universe is much connected to the occurrences of Rev 12:7-10.  One should study both of these Scriptures and notice how they both speak of a great victory over evil, a complete salvation, and a vital new era being established in our universe.  It appears the new era of everlasting righteousness prophesied of in Daniel largely is one with the new and special Kingdom of our God which Revelations says was established in heaven after Satan was cast therefrom.  If the prophesy in Daniel concerning a great victory over evil and the beginning of a very special new era, is especially linked to the occurrences of Rev 12:7-10, Satan would have been cast out of heaven after Christ's redemption and ascension as numerous above Scriptures have indicated and as Scriptures given below will further reveal.     aM-1:41

V     It is quite obvious that things happened just like the first 12 verses of Revelations chapter 12 state.  The woman with 12 stars on her crown (Israel) gave birth to a man child (Christ).  The dragon (Satan) stood ready to kill the Child Christ as soon as He was born.  Note King Herod tried to kill Christ as a babe.  Christ then was caught up unto God and His throne (ascended).  Note before Christ's ascension He had firstly finalized man's salvation.  After that Christ ascended to God and His throne, Rev 12:7-9 states their was war in heaven and Satan and His angels were cast out into the earth.  Verses 10-12 then clearly reveal that such vital occurrences brought to an end to much of Satan's power over God's universe and began a new Kingdom of God's order and righteousness in heaven.  Thus it is quite obvious that when these vital happenings of Revelations chapter 12 occurred a significant part of Daniel's 70 week prophesy came to pass, which prophesy speaks of ending sin and transgression and bringing in everlasting righteousness.      aM-1:42

V     Psalms 68:18 and Eph 4:8 very clearly reveal that Satan experienced a very significant binding basically immediately after Christ's ascension to heaven.  At the time of Christ's resurrection and ascension, captivity was lead captive as the following verses clearly teach;     aM-1:43

V     (Psa 68:18)  "Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them."     aM-1:44

V     (Eph 4:8)  "Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men".      aM-1:45

     These Scriptures in speaking of Christ ascending on high and leading captivity captive, quite obviously are speaking of Christ, after that He ascended back to heaven, making captive the author of captivity (who is Satan).  This occurrence quite obviously is one with the binding of Satan and quite obviously included in this binding is the occurrence of Satan being cast out of heaven.     aM-1:46

     Note how the above verses also speak of Christ ascending and then giving gifts for men.  This gift for men clearly is the gift of the Holy Ghost which was given to men after Christ's ascension.  Jesus spoke of such in the following verses;     aM-1:47

     (John 16:7)  "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you."     aM-1:48

     (John 7:39)  "(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)"     aM-1:49

     As captivity was led captive, in unison with Christ's ascension and the giving of gift of the Holy Ghost, it is quite obvious that Satan was made captive or significantly bound at the time of Pentecost when the gift of the Holy Ghost was poured upon the disciples.  It is indisputably clear that in Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension, etc, Satan experienced a great defeat.  There was war in heaven when Satan was cast therefrom and appears there is still another war to come in which war Satan will experience his final defeat.  In this war Satan and his followers, by the power of God almighty, will be cast forever into hell (Rev 16:14-16, Rev 20:8-10).  The binding of Satan can yet be better understood as the other verses and subjects of the millennium chapter (Rev 20) are considered below.     aM-1:50

Chapter Conclusions

     Satan experienced a very significant binding when Christ ascended on high, or back to heaven and led captivity captive and gave gifts to men.       aM-1:51

     According to Rev 12:1-13, and numerous other Scriptures it appears their was war in heaven after Christ's time on earth was finished and He ascended to heaven, and in which war Satan was cast to earth and permanently barred out of heaven.      aM-1:52

     The binding of Satan, such as was accomplished when Christ ascended back to heaven, very much could be the same binding which verses 1-3 speak of in the Millennium Chapter.      aM-1:53

Chapter 2

SECOND SUBJECT

Satan no longer deceives the nations

     This subject is derived from the third verse of the millennium chapter (Rev 20) which reads;  "And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season."      aM-2:1

     The time wherein Satan no longer deceives the nations could pertain to a time of special enlightenment and evangelistic power for God's people, and to a time wherein all nations of the world would have increased opportunity to know the truth, find salvation, and be a part of God's family or people.      aM-2:2

     The outpouring of the gift of the Holy Ghost which was accomplished in the beginning of the New Testament era, contributed to a special time of enlightenment and Godly power.  Jesus speaking of this said "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (Acts 1:8)  Many Old Testament Scriptures speak of a special time of enlightenment which was to come.  Prophet Joel speaking of this time said, "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:" (Joel 2:28).  Jeremiah speaking of this time said,    " But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people.  And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." (Jer 31:33-34).  This special enlightenment and power brought about through the gift of the Holy Ghost could not but to some extent handicap or hinder Satan's deceivings of the nations.     aM-2:3

     The occurrence of Christ ascending into heaven, and the binding which Satan then experienced when captivity was led captive, clearly appears to have had a part in making the outpouring of the Holy Ghost possible and thus also this time of special power and enlightenment.  Jesus reveals such in the following verses;      aM-2:4

     (John 16:7)  "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you."     aM-2:5

     (John 7:39)  "(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)"     aM-2:6

     Old Testament prophesies repeatedly spoke of a future time when the Gentiles or all Nations would receive special enlightenment and could be included in family of God.  The book of Isaiah more than 10 times speaks of such.  Isaiah 2:2-3 speaking of a special time of enlightenment and of all nations being partakers thereof reads;  "And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem."       aM-2:7

     Although through Satan being bound, earth experienced a special deliverance from his deceptions, yet it is clear that man on earth was not yet delivered as fully from Satan's evil influence as was heaven.  Revelations 12:12 compliments and encourages heaven because of their full deliverance from Satan while yet warning the residents of earth because of a greatly defeated and angered Satan being cast to the earth reading,  "Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."  It is true that Satan because of being defeated and being cast out of heaven had great wrath, yet considering the additional graces made possible to man through the victories of Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost it is quite clear defeated earthbound Satan, could not now deceive the nations as he did before his defeat and binding even though he was greatly angered.     aM-2:8

     If the fact that heaven said woe to the earth when Satan was cast thereto, of necessity must mean earth entered a new dark era when he was cast thereto,  than obviously if Satan was cast out of heaven at the beginning of the New Testament era, the beginning of the New Testament era could not have been a good and special time.  Yet it is very clear that the beginning of the New Testament era was a good time for earth rather than being a dark time, while also it is quite obvious that Satan was cast out of heaven at the beginning of the new era, as it is quite obvious their was war in heaven after Christ's ascension and quite clear Satan then was cast out of heaven at the time when captivity was lead captive.  Considering all aspects it appears to the writer that Satan was cast out of heaven in the beginning of a good and new era, even though the Bible especially says woe unto the earth at that time because of Satan's great wrath when he was cast down.  Note it is clear that the workings which Christ accomplished while on earth and accomplished after ascending (as in leading captivity captive and providing the gift of the Holy Ghost), had a vital binding affect upon Satan and clear that the labors of Christ significantly unveiled the deceptions of Satan and created a good time for the earth.      aM-2:9

     Firstly considering the complete deliverance and glorious situation of heaven when Christ permanently expelled Satan therefrom, and secondly considering man's continued conflict with Satan on the earth, it appears heaven still had good reason to say "woe unto the earth", even though man's situation on earth had greatly improved through Christ's labors.  This "woe" because of an angered Satan was not a vain warning, as Satan was not yet totally subdued, and after a thousand years it appears his deceptive powers on earth again were loosed.  To know to what extent Satan was loosed is likely impossible, yet it is does not appear Satan was able to ever enter heaven again.  The loosening of Satan is considered below in chapter four.     aM-2:10

     After Satan was cast into the bottomless pit and shut up, a seal was set upon Satan to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore (Rev 20:3).  This sealing of Satan could well mean the pit was sealed, yet the phrase in this verse about Satan having a seal put upon him also could very well mean a special stamp or brand was put upon Satan himself, so that he could no longer hid his identify and deceive the nations by feigning himself to be another.  The Greek word underlying seal as in this verse can mean "to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation".  Yet this Greek word also is used in speaking of sealing or closing up things (Rev 10:4).  Thus to know exactly what this sealing of Satan means is difficult.       aM-2:11

V     Jesus speaking to the multitudes concerning Himself casting out devils, spoke of Himself as being one who had bound a strong man and had spoiled his goods (Matt 12:28-29, Mark 3:23-27).  It is clear that Jesus while on earth already had gotten a great victory over Satan and was spoiling Satan's dominion.  Yet Jesus knew He had a another great work to do which He would accomplish after His ascension and thus He told His disciples,  "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you."  (John 16:7 note John 7:39 portrays much the same).  Although Jesus was doing a vital work while on earth, yet He clearly accomplished another great work when He ascended, lead captivity captive, and sent the gift of the Holy Ghost!  Clearly in all these labors of Christ, Christ significantly bound the strong man (Satan) and significantly spoiled his goods.  Considering Christ's labors and victories over Satan while on earth and after He ascended, it is clear that Satan's power and deceptions experienced a vital binding through the labors of Christ.  The labors of Christ (before and after His ascension), and the labors of Christ's Spirit filled disciples, involving powerful sermons and outstanding miracles, manifested to both Jews and Gentiles was not an insignificant witness of truth, and blow to Satan and his deceptions.      aM-2:12

V     Considering all Scriptures it is clear that the beginning of the New Testament era was a time of special enlightenment for man, and clear that the era following the Messiah was a good time wherein all nations or Gentiles experienced a new and special invitation, enlightenment, and blessing.  One should consider how in the beginning of the New Testament era all the nations of the Gentiles were allowed to become a part of God's people and family, which permission amazed the Jews (Acts 10:45, Acts 11:15-18).  Clearly Christ by His labors while on earth and after ascending to heaven bruised Satan's head, as God had foretold to Satan in the Garden of Eden.  (Gen 3:15).  The verse of the millennium chapter which speaks of Satan no longer deceiving the Nations quite likely is speaking of a special time of enlightenment and invitation to salvation, which was not only for the Jews, but for all nations of the world, while it appears this special time was brought about through the labors of Christ which He accomplished while on earth and after ascending.  Note as the other subjects of the millennium chapter are considered, the subject of Satan no longer deceiving the nations can be seen with greater clarity.     aM-2:13

M   Chapter 3

THIRD SUBJECT

Saints Reign With Christ a 1000 Years

     The third subject, which is from verses 4-6, of the millennium chapter tells of the souls of the saints who were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, living and reigning with Christ for a 1000 years.  One should notice that verses 4-5 contain the following wording, “I saw souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, ...and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.  But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished”.  All translations which the writer could find, read very much the same.  Please notice the quote "souls of them who were beheaded" as in these verses.  One should consider that this reign could thus, very possibly be a particular reign of the souls of the saints (Spirits of the Just) with Christ, immediately after their earth life is finished.  Their appear to be numerous changes that occurred around the time of Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension, which clearly would create a basis for a particular reign such as is spoken of in the millennium chapter.  These changes although not so clearly defined in the Scriptures yet are quite clear when considered as a whole.     aM-3:1

     One such change concerns the place wherein the souls of the saints were and are kept until the resurrection of the last day.  Following are Scriptures whose combined message quite clearly reveals that during the New Testament the souls of the saints that die depart to be with Christ.     aM-3:2

     (2 Cor 5:6-8)  "Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:  (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)  We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord."     aM-3:3

     (Phil 1:21-23)  "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.  But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.  For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:"     aM-3:4

     (Luke 23:46)  "And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost."     aM-3:5

     (Acts 7:59)  "And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."     aM-3:6

     (Luke 23:43)  "And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise."     aM-3:7

     Following is a Scripture that reveals that the souls of deceased saints are kept by God under the altar;

(Rev 6:9-11)  

     {9}  "And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:" (note this alter could be an elevated alter, Rev 14:18 speaking of the altar reads,  "And another angel came out from the altar...".  Rev 9:13 and Rev 8:3-5 also speak of an alter speaking of a golden altar which is before God and His throne.)     aM-3:9

     {10}  "And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?"     aM-3:10

     {11}  "And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled."  Note how this verse reveals that these souls were being kept under or by the alter while our present wicked world was yet in existence.     aM-3:11

     Following are Scriptures that reveal that the souls of the saints that have departed this earth, will be brought with Christ when He comes again.     aM-3:12

     (1 Th 3:13)  "To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints".     aM-3:13

     (1 Th 4:14)  "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him."     aM-3:14

     (Jude 1:14)  "And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,".     aM-3:15

     The above Scriptures quite clearly reveal, firstly that the souls of the saints immediately depart to be with Christ, secondly that they are kept by God under the alter, and thirdly that God will bring them with Him when He returns to earth.     aM-3:16

     The words grave and hell when used in the Old Testament most times are translated from a Hebrew word which has the following definition; 7585. she'owl, sheh-ole'; or  she'ol, sheh-ole'; from H7592; hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), includ. its accessories and inmates:.      aM-3:17

     The word hell when used in the New Testament often comes from a Greek word with the following definition;  86. haides, hah'-dace; from G1 (as a neg. particle) and G1492; prop. unseen, i.e. "Hades" or the place (state) of departed souls:.     aM-3:18

     Following are Scriptures whose combined message indicates that the souls of the saints before Christ died as the supreme sacrifice and resurrected, were kept by God in the lower parts of the earth;     aM-3:19

     (Gen 25:8)  "Then Abraham gave up the ghost, and died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people."     aM-3:20

     (Gen 35:29)  "And Isaac gave up the ghost, and died, and was gathered unto his people, being old and full of days: and his sons Esau and Jacob buried him."     aM-3:21

     (Gen 49:33)  "And when Jacob had made an end of commanding his sons, he gathered up his feet into the bed, and yielded up the ghost, and was gathered unto his people.     aM-3:22

     (Deu 32:48&50)  "And the LORD spake unto Moses ...And die in the mount whither thou goest up, and be gathered unto thy people; as Aaron thy brother died in mount Hor, and was gathered unto his people:"  Note the above several Scriptures could indicate that these Old Testament individuals at death were gathered together into a common place of keeping.  Many more Scriptures which are not given also speak of the Old Testament characters being gathered unto their people.       aM-3:23

     (Isa 24:22)  "And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited."       aM-3:24

     (Ezek 26:20)  "When I shall bring thee down with them that descend into the pit, with the people of old time, and shall set thee in the low parts of the earth, in places desolate of old, with them that go down to the pit, that thou be not inhabited; and I shall set glory in the land of the living;"     aM-3:25

     (Ezek 31:16)  "I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to hell with them that descend into the pit: and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink water, shall be comforted in the nether parts of the earth."  Could this verse be speaking of a special care that God gave to the spirits of the faithful even while the abode in the lower parts of the earth?     aM-3:26

     (Zec 9:11)  "As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein is no water."       aM-3:27

(1 Sam 28: 8&11&13&15-16&19)

     {8}  "And Saul disguised himself, and put on other raiment, and he went, and two men with him, and they came to the woman by night: and he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, and bring me him up, whom I shall name unto thee."     aM-3:28

     {11}  "Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel."     aM-3:29

     {13}  "And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth."     aM-3:30

     {15}  "And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do."     aM-3:31

     {16}  "Then said Samuel, Wherefore then dost thou ask of me, seeing the LORD is departed from thee, and is become thine enemy?"     aM-3:32

     {19}  "Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines."  Saul and his sons were killed shortly, likely the next day, and according to Samuel's saying went to be with Samuel in the lower parts of the earth.     aM-3:33

     Following are Scriptures which also speak of the souls of the deceased as being in the lower parts of the earth.  The combined message of these Scriptures also indicate that a change could well have taken place between the Old and New Testament in regards to the place of the abode of the souls of the saints;     aM-3:34

     (Eph 4:9)  "(Now that he [Christ] ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?"     aM-3:35

     (1 Pet 3:19-20)  "By which also he [Christ] went and preached unto the spirits in prison;  Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water."     aM-3:36

     (1 Pet 4:6)  "For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit."     aM-3:37

     (Isa 24:22)  "And they shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited."  Note possibly this visiting after many days, involved Christ preaching to the dead and spirits in prison as Peter spoke of in the nigh above verses.       aM-3:37.5

     (Zec 9:11)  "As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy prisoners out of the pit wherein is no water."  Could not this verse be speaking of the souls that were kept in the lower parts of the earth, being delivered therefrom, through the blood and labors of Christ?     aM-3:38

     (Mat 27:52-53)  "And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many."  (Note these individuals could well have been kept in the lower parts of the earth, and after the resurrection of Christ gone to be with Him being kept under the alter as in Rev 6:9.)     aM-3:39

     (Rev 20:4-5)  "And I saw thrones, and they sat up, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.  But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection."     aM-3:40

     Note how the above Scripture reveals that the saved lived again while the ungodly did not and connects this difference to a first resurrection.  This first resurrection could well pertain to the particular resurrection that the souls of the saints experienced in resurrecting to be with Christ from their previous abode in the lower parts of the earth.  This first resurrection also would include the resurrection which the saints of the New Testament era, after their death, immediately experience as they depart to be with Christ, which resurrection the wicked do not experience.  The wording first resurrection yet may solely be speaking of the new birth although such does not appear as likely to the writer.       aM-3:41

      For the spirits of the just or souls of the saints to be allowed to come into the presence of our Holy God and abide by the alter in the heavenly Jerusalem was not a light or insignificant permission.  For mortal and sinful man to draw nigh unto God is not a light thing.  It appears from the very beginning man in approaching and drawing near to God, needed to offer sacrifice such as did Able, Noah, and Abraham.  If the Jews did not properly conduct themselves in dealing with sacrifices or the Holy Things of the Temple they were struck dead (Lev 10:1-2, Sam 6:19, 2 Sam 6:6-7).  After that two of Aaron's sons were struck dead because of not approaching God with a proper sacrifice, Moses speaking to Aaron about this slaying said "This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me...". (Lev 10:3).  Coming into the presence of our Holy and God and dealing with the Holy Things of God absolutely was not a light matter!  It is quite clear that God would not allow mortal and sinful man to come into His Holy presence without the aid of sacrifices.  Thus it also appears the spirits of the just or soul's of the saints could not enter God Holy presence in the heavenly Jerusalem until after Christ's sacrifice, the true and final sacrifice was completed.     aM-3:42

V     Numerous Scriptures in the Old Testament speak of particular cities of refuge.  These cities of refuge were particular cities where one who had accidentally killed another, could flee to, to be protected from those who were angry at him for what he had done.  One who had accidentally killed another, had to remain within this city until the death of the High Priest, or those whom were angry at him for this killing had the right to kill him if he was found without this city.  Yet after the death of the High Priest the unintentional man slayer was allowed to return home, and again live as he had before his dreadful accident.  The writer at times wondered why this slayer had to remain in this city and could not return home and regain his original position in life, until the death of the High Priest and wondered what such may have symbolized.  Later it has impressed the writer that such could possibly symbolize the principle that God would not permit the spirits of the just or souls of the saints to come nigh unto him and regain their position in His presence, until after the sacrifice and death of Christ, our true High Priest.     aM-3:43

     Considering these Scriptures and things it appears quite possible that this first resurrection of Rev (which the righteous experienced and which the ungodly did not experience), could involve the saints of the old era resurrecting from there abode in the lower parts of the earth to dwell in the New Jerusalem by or under the alter in the presence of God, as well as involve the saints of the New era resurrecting from earth immediately after their death to dwell in the presence of God.     aM-3:44

     The issue of the souls of the saints resurrecting from their previous abode in the lower parts of the earth (hades) to be with Christ in heaven could be one important issue with regard to the 1000 year reign of souls of the saints with Christ.  Another issue of the 1000 year reign could be the change that heaven experienced through Jesus coming to earth and taking on the form of man and ascending back to heaven in His resurrected and immortal body.  It appears Christ before His coming to earth was in Spirit form and was invisible as is His Father, while after His earth life He now exists in heaven in body form having a body form such as has mankind.  Following are Scriptures pertaining to such;     aM-3:45

     (Heb 10:5)  "Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:"     aM-3:46

     (Phil 2:6-8)  "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:  But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:  And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."     aM-3:47

     (John 1:1)  "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word as God."     aM-3:48

     (John 1:14)  "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."     aM-3:49

     (Col 1:15)  "Who [Christ] is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:"     aM-3:50

     (2 Cor 4:4)  "...Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them."     aM-3:51

     (Heb 1:3)  "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person...".     aM-3:52

     Another factor contributing to the 1000 year (symbolical of a long period of time) reign of the saints with Christ has already been considered.  This factor pertains to Satan being permanently removed from heaven, which occurrence would provide a new environment for a special reign.  Rev 12:10 speaking of the time when Satan was cast out of heaven speaks of such instigating a new Kingdom era reading;  "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night."     aM-3:53

V     The three factors the writer feels contribute to the 1000 year reign of the souls of the saints with Christ are, firstly the souls of the saints being released from their keeping in hades to then dwell in heaven together with Christ,  secondly Christ being in heaven in a bodily form as not previously, and thirdly that of Satan being permanently removed therefrom.  Any one of these three changes would provide basis for a special reign, while all three of these changes combined would provide more than enough basis for this particular reign of the souls of the saints with Christ.       aM-3:54

     In considering the 1000 year aspect of this reign, this could simply be speaking of a long period of time.  It also should be considered if Christ's second coming were nigh unto the year 2000 A.D. the average time of this reign for each saint would be basically 1000 years.  This is figuring those who would have been there for nearly 2000 years (saints who died in the first century after Christ) and figuring those who will be therein just a few years (saints who died nigh unto Christ's second coming).  Figuring all the years throughout the New Testament, and figuring the same amount of saints entered this particular reign per year, the average time for each saint's reign would be 1000 years.  This 1000 year reign can be understood better yet, as the subject of "the end" is considered a few pages below.     aM-3:55

     Many Scriptures prophesy of a peaceable Kingdom or Reign to be established by Christ.  Part Two of this article considers such Scriptures and reveals how such Scriptures do not necessarily demand a 1000 year reign of Christ on earth after His second coming.     aM-3:56

Chapter 4

FORTH SUBJECT

Satan Loosed Again

     The forth subject is from verses 3 & 7-8 of the millennium chapter.  These verses speak of Satan, after that he was bound, being loosed for a little season and again deceiving the nations.  This loosening of Satan could well pertain to mankind encountering a time of great deception or spiritual darkness just before the end of the world.  Following are numerous Scriptures which clearly reveal their will be dark and deceptive times just prior to the end of the world;     aM-4:1

     Jesus speaking of the end times, spoke of a time of real tribulation and deception, and spoke of a particular slumber of the people of God saying,     aM-4:2

     (Mat 24:21)  "For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be."      aM-4:3

     (Mat 24:22)  "And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened."     aM-4:4

     (Mat 24:23-24)  "Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not.  For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."  (note verse 29 & 30 speak of the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven immediately after the tribulation of those days.)     aM-4:5

     (Mat 25:5-6)  "While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him."  This verse strongly indicates a certain slumber among the people of God in the last times.     aM-4:6

     Prophet Daniel in the following verses speaks of dark and troubleous times coming before the end, and speaks of the power of the Holy people being scattered in the last days;      aM-4:7

     (Dan 12:1)  "And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book."     aM-4:8

     (Dan 12:4)  "But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."     (Dan 12:7)  "And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished."     aM-4:10

     Revelations chapter 11 speaks of the two witnesses of God after being active for a time, being killed in the last times, and laying dead on the streets as follows;     aM-4:11

     (Rev 11:3&7-8)  "And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.  {7} And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.  {8} And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified."  The writer believes that Rev 11:1-3 indicate that these two witnesses represent both the Jewish and Gentile aspects of God's New Testament People.     aM-4:12

     Note how the above Scriptures speaking of the last days, speak of a great deception, speak of a particular slumber and death of God's people and speak of a scattering of their power.  It appears quite clear to the writer that the Scriptures which are given below also are speaking of this same particular slumber, scattering, and death of God's people as the above Scriptures are speaking of;     aM-4:13

     (Dan 7:21)  "I beheld, and the same horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;"     aM-4:14

     (Dan 7:25)  "And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High..."     aM-4:15

     (Rev 13:7)  "And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them..."     aM-4:16

     Apostle Paul speaking of the end times spoke of a falling away, and of deceptive and perilous times saying;     aM-4:17

     (2 Th 2:3)  "Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;"     aM-4:18

     (2 Tim 3:1)  "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come."     aM-4:19

     (2 Tim 3:13)  "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."     aM-4:20

     The deceptive and difficult times as prophesied in the above Scriptures very likely are one with the loosening of Satan as spoken of in verses 2-3&7 of the millennium chapter.     aM-4:21

M   Chapter 5

FIFTH SUBJECT

Subject of the End

     Fifthly and lastly will be considered the subject  of the end.  This subject involves verses 9-15 of the millennium chapter.  Apostle Peter speaking of the end said the following;     aM-5:1

     (1 Pet 4:7)  "But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer."     aM-5:2

     (Acts 3:21)  "...until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began."      aM-5:3

     Jesus three times used the term "end of the world".  Included in the subject of the end, will be the subjects of,  Christ's second coming, the end of the world, the judgment, and the punishment of the wicked.  The Bible has much to say about all of theses subjects.     aM-5:4

     Following are some of the many scriptures that pertain to the coming of Christ to earth again, after the time of Him being on earth as a babe, teacher, and sacrifice for sins;     aM-5:5

     (John 14:3)  "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again,..."     aM-5:6

     (Heb 9:28)  "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation."     aM-5:7

     (Acts 1:11)  "Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."     aM-5:8

     (Mat 26:64)  "Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven."     aM-5:9

     Following are Scriptures pertaining to the subject of the judgment, which Scriptures clearly speak of a day of Judgment.     aM-5:10

     (Mat 10:15)  "Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city."  Matt  11:24 and Mark 6:11 also speak of a day of judgment and read much the same.     aM-5:11

     (Mat 11:22)  "But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you."     aM-5:12

     (Mat 12:36)  "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment."     aM-5:13

     (Rom 2:5)  "But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;"     aM-5:14

     (2 Pet 2:9)  "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:"     aM-5:15

     (2 Pet 3:7)  "But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men."     aM-5:16

     (1 John 4:17)  "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world."     aM-5:17

     (Jude 1:6)  "And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day."     aM-5:18

     The following scriptures give much direction concerning as to when God's children will be rewarded and the unsaved punished after Christ's second coming.  These Scriptures also give much information pertaining to the end (final destruction) of the world in relation to Christ's second coming.     aM-5:19

     (2 Pet 3:3-7)  "Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,  {4} And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.  {5} For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water:  {6} Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:  {7} But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men."  Note how this Scripture says “the heavens and the earth, which are now”.       aM-5:20

     (2 Pet 3:10)  "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."      aM-5:21

     (2 Pet 3:12)  "Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?"     aM-5:22

     Note how the above teachings of Peter indicate that the earth which is now will quickly meet it's final end at the coming of the Lord.       aM-5:23

     (2 Th 1:7-8)  "And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,  In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:"     aM-5:24

     (2 Tim 4:1)  "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom"     aM-5:25

     (Rev 22:12)  "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."     aM-5:26

     Note how the above three verses indicate that the God will reward the righteous and punish the wicked basically immediately at His second coming.     aM-5:27

     (1 Th 4:15-17)  "For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord."     aM-5:28

     (John 14:3)  "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."     aM-5:29

     Note how the above two Scriptures indicate that the Christian will go to be with Christ when Christ returns again.  When Christ returns no Christian will want to stay behind, nor will the Christian be disappointed!      aM-5:30

     (Acts 3:21)  "Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began."        aM-5:31

     Note how the combined message of all the above verses does not give much room for a 1000 year reign of Christ on earth to transpire after Christ's second coming and before the punishment of the wicked.  Yet this will yet become clearer as the following Scriptures are also considered.     aM-5:32

     Following are given numerous teachings of Christ.  To avoid lengthy reading, just those verses that are most pertinent are included.  A short summary of other verses is often given.     aM-5:33

     (Mat 24:3)  "And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?   Jesus then (in verses 4-28) told of much tribulation and deception preceding His second coming and the end of the world.  He then (in verses 36-44) made it clear that His second coming will come unexpectantly to the world in general.  He then (in verses 45-51) revealed how that at His coming, He will basically immediately reward faithfulness and punish unfaithfulness.  Verses 48&50-51 concerning the immediate punishment of the wicked reads,  "But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;  ...The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of  And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."     aM-5:34

     (Matt  25:14-30)  Herein Jesus taught the Parable of the Talents wherein is revealed a responsibility on man's part while Christ tarries in heaven.  Christ in verses 19-30 then reveals that at His coming, quite naturally His second, He will immediately reward faithfulness and punish unfaithfulness.  Verses 19&26&30 concerning such read, "After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.  ...His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strowed.  ...And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."     aM-5:38

     (Mat 25:31-32)  "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, ...before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:" Jesus immediately then in verses 34&41 gives the wicked and righteous this sentence;  "Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:"  "Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:"     aM-5:39

     (Matt 16:27)  "For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works."  Note how this verse indicates that the Son of man shall reward every man according to his works immediately at His return.       aM-5:40

     (Luke 17:20-25) Herein Jesus, when questioned when the kingdom of God would come, said that He would first be rejected of that generation.  Jesus (in verses 26-28) then spoke of how the world at the time of His second coming, in respect to daily activities, would be much like it was in the times of Noah and Lot.  Jesus (in verses 29-30) then concluded saying  "But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.  Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed."  Note how this Scripture reveals that the wicked will be destroyed in connection with Christ's coming, much like the wicked of Sodom were destroyed by fire immediately after that Lot departed.       aM-5:41

     Notice how the five above Scriptures do not indicate that there was to be a particular 1000 year reign after Christ's return and before the judgment and punishment of the wicked.  

     If one believes that after Christ's second coming the world will be refabricated or recycled and then a 1000 year reign will be experienced, than it would appear after this 1000 reign is completed another major event or a second end would need to occur, such as the writer does not feel the Scriptures as a whole speak of.  Do the Scriptures speaking of the end, speak of two ends of this world, involving two major and separated events, or speak of one great transformation or event in which the world will come to it's final end?  It is true that this one great transformation or great event could involve several subsequent and successive events such as Christ's return, the resurrection of the saints, the judgment, and the rewards of the saints and punishment of the wicked, and the destruction of this world.  To know how much time will transpire in accomplishing these events quite obviously is impossible.       aM-5:42

V     Although some might prefer that Christ would reign in Jerusalem at His second coming, yet it is clear that even if Christ does not reign on earth and in the city of Jerusalem when He returns, the righteous still will be greatly rewarded at His coming, and will not be left unrewarded or disappointed! May all Christians be assured of such.  Possibly some Christians contrary to the teachings of Apostle John, love the world and the things therein to the extent that they are motivated to hope Christ will reign in Jerusalem so they can continue to love the world even after Christ's second coming.  May Christians rather than being guilty of loving this world, be a companion of those Bible heroes in the Faith Chapter who confessed they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth (Heb 11:13).  May Christians be like Apostle Peter who after speaking of how the earth would be burned up at the coming of the Lord said   "Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness."  (2 Pet 3:13).  It is true that in one respect there is not much difference between leaving this world and going to a better world than to having this earth refabricated and continuing to dwell thereon.  Yet there is a great difference between the individual who loves the things of this present world and who is rich and wise thereabout, and the individual who is a pilgrim and a stranger in this present world, and is poor in earthly possessions but yet is rich in faith and is laying up treasures in heaven!  Although in one respect, some ways of interpreting the end time may not make much difference, yet Christians in studying Christ's return and interpreting the subject of the end must endeavor to give due regard to all Scriptures and must endeavor to interpret the Millennium Chapter in ways that agree with other clear and basic Scriptures.       aM-5:43

V     All scriptures pertaining to the second coming of Christ, the judgment, and the end of the world, of which the writer is aware, largely portray that the second coming of Christ and the end of the world (destruction of the earth) are one and the same occurrence.  Verse 11 of the millennium chapter reads;  "And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them."  Note how this verse speaks of heaven and earth fleeing from the face of him that sat on the throne.  As the heaven and earth immediately fled away from the face of him that sat upon the great white throne, it appears in like manner the world will pass away and come to it's end at Christ's glorious return.     aM-5:43.5

V     Firstly considering the incarnation of Christ wherein Christ took on the form of man and now exists in heaven as such, secondly considering Christ's labors and victory when He made captivity captive and cast Satan out of heaven and established a new era of everlasting righteousness in heaven, and thirdly considering the aspect of the souls of the saints after Christ's atonement being allowed to resurrect from the lower parts of the earth to dwell with Christ in the presence of God, it appears to the writer that the Millennium Chapter can very nicely and very properly be explained without a 1000 years reign needing to transpire after Christ's second coming.  One should here also remember that verses 4&5 of the Millennium chapter clearly reveal that the 1000 year reign of the saints involved the souls those who were beheaded and had died for the witness of Jesus.     aM-5:44

     May all readers study and consider the many New Testament Scriptures concerning Christ's return (second coming).  The topics of Christ's second coming, end of the world, resurrection, and judgment largely give no indication of a future reign of Christ on earth.  All Scriptures involving the topic of Kingdom can easily be understood to pertain to one or more of the following kingdoms; the Old Testament kingdom of Israel, the peaceful New Testament kingdom established by Christ (Considered in Part Two), the new Kingdom which began in heaven when Satan was cast therefrom, and lastly the eternal unchanging Kingdom which will begin after the judgment and the Marriage of the Lamb and bride.     aM-5:45

     In conclusion may all remember the 70 week prophesy in Daniel concerning a special new era or kingdom which would begin at the time of the Messiah wherein everlasting righteousness would be ushered in,  remember the verse which reads "...Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down....", remember the incarnation of Christ taking place, wherein the Son of God took on a new flesh and body dimension and now exists in heaven as such, remember the plain scriptures concerning the souls of the saints which have deceased now being in the presence of God and the Christ the Lamb, and now having part in this new kingdom of everlasting righteousness, remember the plain scriptures that indicate the destruction of the earth, the judgment and the eternal rewards will immediately follow Christ's second coming, and last of all remember Apostle Peter' s clear teaching that the world which now is shall be destroyed at Christ's second coming.     aM-5:46

     The Jews strongly felt the Messiah would establish an earthly Kingdom in Jerusalem and reign therefrom, when He came the first time.  Some Jews of the early centuries rejected Christ, to some extent because He did not set up the particular Kingdom in Jerusalem which they felt the Prophets prophesied that He would set up.  May Christians not make the same mistake when Christ comes the second time!       aM-5:47

  
Note after writing about both Justin and Tertullian in the below paragraph I later lost confidence in them.  They taught most dreadful things regarding marriage and women etc.  You can see their dreadful writings thereabout at this link.  https://www.teachmegod.com/most-all-articles-alphabetical/false-ancient-writings

  Yet it is true that numerous Old Testament prophesies together with Rev 20 could be understood to teach that Christ will reign on earth and from Jerusalem.  Justin Martyr (Justinus) a Church Father of the early Christian Church who had much good understanding and appears to have been faithful and upright, like many non Christian Jews felt that Christ would set up an earthly Kingdom in Jerusalem.  Although Justin Martyr agreed with the non Christian Jews as such yet he concluded that Christ would establish this Kingdom at Jerusalem at His second coming and felt this Kingdom would be the 1000 year Kingdom spoken of in the Millennium chapter.  Tertullian another early Church Father believed Christ at His second coming would bring the New Jerusalem with Him and replace the previous Jerusalem with it and reign therefrom for a 1000 years.  Although it appears both Justin Martyr and Tertullian and many early Christians believed in a future 1000 reign of Christ on earth and in Jerusalem, it appears many early Christians (who Justin Martyr acknowledged as true Christians) did not agree with such belief.  Justin speaking to a non Christian Jew with whom he agreed on the point that Christ (the Messiah) would reign on earth and in the city of Jerusalem writes, "I admitted to you formerly, that I and many others are of this opinion, and [believe] that such will take place, as you assuredly are aware; but, on the other hand, I signified to you that many who belong to the pure and pious faith, and are true Christians, think otherwise".  Note how this statement reveals that many early Christians did not believe in a future reign of Christ on earth and in Jerusalem, although Justin and other early Christians believed as such     .     aM-5:48

     Following are some comments of Adam Clark and Matthew Henry concerning the Millennium, which some readers might be interested in.   Adam Clark wrote "Reigned with Christ a thousand years.- I am satisfied that this period should not be taken literally. It may signify that there shall be a long and undisturbed state of Christianity; and so universally shall the Gospel spirit prevail, that it will appear as if Christ reigned upon earth".  Matthew Henry wrote   "Here is an account of the reign of the saints, for the same space of time as Satan is bound. Those who suffer with Christ, shall reign with him in his spiritual and heavenly kingdom".  Considering the comments of these commentators it appears they did not advocate a 1000 year reign of Christ on earth after Christ's second coming, and appears there are numerous views had concerning the Millennium Chapter.       aM-5:49

     The writer in one respect does agree with Justin and Tertullian, as the writer does believe in a particular 1000 year reign of Christ with the saints in Jerusalem.  Yet the writer believes this reign is presently being experienced in the heavenly Jerusalem where both Christ and the souls of the saints who have died, are presently abiding.  The writer finds it hard to believe that Christ upon returning to earth the second time will place the heavenly Jerusalem upon earth in place of the previous Jerusalem, and begin a temporary Kingdom on earth which will exist a 1000 years.  In consideration of the many Scriptures that speak of the end of the world, the judgment, and punishment of the wicked occurring in unison with Christ's second coming, and considering how the Millennium Chapter can nicely be explained in agreement with such Scriptures, the writer finds it hard to believe that a thousand years after Christ's second coming, the earth will yet be in existence and that Satan will again be loosed upon it.  Yet concerning issues such as this, may God's people not argue about them to no profit.  Yet may God's people be open hearted to except what ever the truth may be, when things are revealed to them which they never knew or heard explained before.     aM-5:50

     It is thus very possible that the kingdom of Christ which is established to exist a long period of time (symbolically 1000 years) preceding a never ending eternity has already begun and will end with Christ's second coming.  Then will be the final resurrection and judgment after which all will ushered into their eternal reward.  Then will be the heavenly marriage feast for the faithful and God's eternal kingdom will sprout forth in it's full dimension for eternity.  Where will you be?  It appears the past six thousand years of our world could be likened to six days (each thousand years one day 2 Pet 3:8, Psa 90:4), while the coming seventh day could be an eternal sabbath day of rest.  When the Christian enters his final rest in the heavenly New Jerusalem their will be no more night but an everlasting day (Rev 21:25&22:5).  O many you and I through eternity be there!     aM-5:51

V     May no one trust in a future reign of Christ wherein one who rejects God in his life time, and dies unsaved, will have a second chance to be saved, for "...it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: (Heb 9:27).  Ezekiel makes it clear that as one lives before he dies so will he be judged, he says, "When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.  Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive." (Ezekiel 18.26-27).  Jesus clearly taught that at His second coming we dare not be sleeping but must be watching and ready.  Jesus said that such as are not watching and ready for His coming would be foolish virgins, wicked and slothful servants, and goats (Mark 13, Matt 24 & 25).  May all thus prepare their lives today for "...behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation)" (2 Cor 6:2).     aM-5:52

Chapter 6

     Considers the Different Things Which the Bible Can be Speaking About When it Speaks of Jerusalem.  

     Considers What the Bible Can be Speaking of When it Speaks of the seed of Abraham, and speaks of the Temple and house of God.

     Considers Numerous Prophesies that Speak of a New and Special Time or Kingdom to Come.

     Considers Numerous Prophesies that Speak of Jerusalem.

     The world Jerusalem appears 811 times in the Bible (King James Version).  It appears the Bible most often in speaking of Jerusalem is speaking of the physical or literal city of Jerusalem.  Jerusalem was the central or capital city of God's Old Testament Kingdom of Israel.  Yet in considering the very many times the Bible speaks of Jerusalem, it becomes clear that when the Bible speaks of Jerusalem it often is also speaking of the people who were governed by Jerusalem's government, or God's Old Testament covenant people rather than the physical city of Jerusalem.     aM-6:1

     The Bible (King James Version) uses terms such as, "joy of Jerusalem",  "blood of Jerusalem",  "stand up O Jerusalem", "sit down O Jerusalem", "put on thy beautiful garments O Jerusalem", "O Jerusalem wash thine heart", "be thou instructed O Jerusalem",  "cut off thine hair O Jerusalem", and "pride of Jerusalem".  The Bible also speaks of Jerusalem remembering, knowing, speaking, and sinning.  In considering how the Scriptures use the word Jerusalem, it is obvious many Scriptures are not speaking with regards to the physical or literal city of Jerusalem, but rather are speaking with regards to the people of God or people of Jerusalem's government.  Jesus speaking of Jerusalem said, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!"  (Matt 23:37).  Clearly Jesus here in speaking of Jerusalem, was lamenting the sad situation of God's people (Kingdom of Israel).       aM-6:2

     Considering how the Bible in speaking of Jerusalem can be speaking of the nation or people of God, one must recognize that Old Testament prophesies or any Scripture in speaking about Jerusalem need not necessarily be speaking of the physical city of Jerusalem.  Rather it is clear that the Old Testament prophesies in speaking of Jerusalem could well be speaking of a future situation of God's people or Kingdom rather than speaking of a future situation of the literal city of Jerusalem.      aM-6:3

     Most times when the Scriptures speak of the Temple or house of God they are speaking of the physical or literal Temple which was at Jerusalem.  Yet some Scriptures in speaking of the house of God or Temple are speaking of God's people.  Following are several such Scriptures;     aM-6:4

     (Jer 7:4)  "Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, are these."     aM-6:5

     (1 Cor 3:16-17)  "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? {17} If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."     aM-6:6

     (Eph 2:21)  Herein Paul speaking of the people of God involving both Jews and Gentiles said, "In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:"     aM-6:7

     (1 Tim 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."     aM-6:8

     Prophet Haggai appearing to speak of the second Temple which was built after the Jews returned from Babylon to their home land said,  "The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts."  (Hag 2:9).  Yet the second Temple structure quite obviously was not more glorious than Solomon's previous Temple.  Some elderly individuals who remembered Solomon's magnificent Temple, upon seeing the beginning construction of the second Temple were grieved and wept with a loud voice (Ezra 3:12-13).  Although it would appear Haggia here was speaking of the literal Temple which was built after the Jews returned to their homeland, yet it is possible that Haggia in this verse rather was speaking of the people who would worship in the second Temple and of the glorious revived condition of their heart.  God even in the Old Testament era, quite obviously was more interested in the condition of the heart of those who worshipped Him, than He was interested in the Temple inwhich they sacrificed and worshipped.  God's focus even back then was on the heart and attitude rather than on outward show, as God desired King Saul's obedience more than his burnt offerings (1 Sam 15:22).      aM-6:9

     In considering how the five above Scriptures use the word Temple it becomes clear that when the Bible speaks of the Temple or house of God, it might be speaking of the people of God rather than merely the place wherein God's people worship.     aM-6:10

     The Bible often speaks of the seed and children of Abraham and the children of Israel (Jacob) which people the Bible often speaks of as being Jews.  These people in general were God's covenant people, and the Bible quite often in referring to Jerusalem is referring to these special people.  Most times when the Bible speaks of the children of Abraham and Israel or speaks of the Jews, it is speaking of the physical descendants of Abraham and Jacob.  Yet the Scriptures when speaking of the seed of Abraham or the Jews need not necessarily be speaking of the physical seed of Abraham or physical Jew, since the Scriptures also teach that the Jew or seed of Abraham can be anyone who is of the faith of Abraham and is Christ's follower.  Following are several such Scriptures;     aM-6:11

     (Gal 3:7)  "Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham."     aM-6:12

     (Gal 3:29)  "And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."     aM-6:13

     (Rom 2:28-29)  "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: {29} But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."     aM-6:14

     (Rom 4:16)  "...all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,"     aM-6:15

     Considering the above Scriptures it becomes clear that when the Bible speaks of Abraham's seed or Jerusalem, it might be speaking of God's people as a whole, including both Jew and Gentile, and need not necessarily speaking of the Jewish Nation.     aM-6:16

     Isa 66:11-13 speaking of Jerusalem reads,  "Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy with her, all ye that mourn for her: {11} That ye may suck, and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations; that ye may milk out, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory. {12} For thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon her sides, and be dandled upon her knees. {13} As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem."  One should consider that this Scripture in speaking of Jerusalem need not necessarily be speaking of the literal city of Jerusalem, or necessarily be speaking of the people of the literal city of Jerusalem, but could be speaking of all the people of God's new era Kingdom, and speaking of the Gentiles being comforted together with the Jews in this special Kingdom.      aM-6:17

     In considering all the above it becomes clear that when the Bible speaks of Jerusalem, the Jew, or the Temple, one must be careful in determining what really is being spoken of.  The fact that the Bible in speaking of Jerusalem or the Jews does not necessarily need to be speaking of the physical Jerusalem or Jews must be carefully remembered in studying the Millennium and Biblical prophesies.     aM-6:18

     Many Old Testament prophesies speak of a special time or Kingdom to come.  Many Scriptures speak of the seed of David reigning over an everlasting Kingdom.  Many Scriptures speak of a Kingdom or time of peace where the wolf and the lamb will lie down together and where swords would be beaten into plowshares.  Numerous Scriptures prophesy of a great and special blessing being poured out upon Jerusalem.  Scriptures of this nature could be understood to indicate that a particular 1000 year reign will occur after Christ's second coming.  Following are several such prophesies;       aM-6:19

     (Isaiah 11:1&6&10) "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse [King David's Father] , and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:"  {6} The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.   {10} And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious."  Isaiah 9:6-7 is a prophesy quite similar to this and advocates that this Government or Kingdom would have no end.     aM-6:20

     (1 Chr 17:12&14)  Herein God speaking to King David about his son Solomon said,  "He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever.  {14} But I will settle him in mine house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for evermore."       aM-6:21

     (Isa 65:17-19)  "For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. {18} But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy. {19} "And I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in my people: and the voice of weeping shall be no more heard in her, nor the voice of crying."     aM-6:22

     (Isa 66:20-22)  "And they shall bring all your brethren for an offering unto the LORD out of all nations... to my holy mountain Jerusalem... {21} And I will also take of them for priests and for Levites, saith the LORD. {22} For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain."     aM-6:23

     (Micah 4:1-3)  "But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains... {2} And many nations shall come, ...for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. {3} And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more."  Note Isaiah 2:2-4 reads almost exactly the same.      aM-6:24

     (Hosea 2:18)  "And in that day will I make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and with the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely."  Note this safety possibly could pertain to the safety against deception which was attained when the Holy Ghost was poured out and Satan was bound and could no longer deceive the nations, or pertain to the safety that encompasses the Saints in the new and special Kingdom which Christ established in heaven (Note it also should be considered that although God's people now must suffer persecution they still have a special protection around them).     aM-6:25

     (Zec 14:8-9)  "And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be. {9} And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one."       aM-6:26

     (Isa 35:1&5-7&10)  "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. {5} Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. {6} Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. {7} And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes. {10} And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away."     aM-6:27

     In considering prophesies such as these one should remember how the Scriptures in speaking of Jerusalem need not necessarily be speaking of the literal city of Jerusalem but can rather be speaking of people of God.  One should also remember how the Scriptures given in paragraphs aM 6:12-15 also revealed that any follower of Christ can be counted as a Jew or the seed of Abraham.  Thus the above prophesies speaking of Jerusalem could very properly be speaking of a blessed future situation of the people of God involving both Jews and Gentiles rather than speaking of the literal and physical city of Jerusalem or the physical seed of Abraham.  One should consider how Christ's labors and victories brought about a great blessing to both heaven and earth.     aM-6:28

     Many prophesies (such as those given above) which speak of a future Kingdom of peace, and which might be thought to indicate that Christ after His second coming will establish a peaceful reign on earth, instead could pertain to the special Kingdom of peace which Christ established while on earth the first time.  Note chapters 7-16 below speak extensively of the peaceable attributes of Christ's New Testament Kingdom. Many of the prophesies which speak of a special blessing upon Jerusalem could very well pertain to the blessing which the early Christian Church received at Pentecost or even might pertain to the new and special Kingdom which Christ established in heaven after He fulfilled redemption's plan and ascended back to heaven.  Some prophesies such as these might also pertain to the final Kingdom which will be established after Christ has won His final war and victory over Satan and has put all things under His feet, and Christ and His bride are joined together at the marriage supper of the Lamb.  Paul numerous times speaks of Christ in due time putting all things under His feet, and clearly teaches that not all things are yet put under His feet (Roman 16:20, 1 Cor 15:25, Heb 2:8).     aM-6:29

     Although the word heaven as used in the Bible often pertains to a far away place of future reward where Christ, the saints, and the Angels dwell, yet the word heaven also can strictly pertain to the sky or firmament above and surrounding the earth.  Numerous Scriptures call the firmament above our earth heaven  (Gen 1:6-8, 1:14-20, Psa 19:1, Dan 12:3).  Numerous Scriptures also speak of God creating and granting both a new heaven and a new earth (Isa 65:17, 66:22, 2 Pet 3:13, Rev 21:1).  Considering that heaven can be the firmament above the earth, is it very possible that the Bible in speaking of a new heaven might be strictly speaking of a new firmament above and around a new earth.  The Scriptures that speak of both a new heaven and an new earth likely are speaking of one new dwelling involving a new earth and a new firmament above and around the new earth, rather than speaking of God creating two new dwelling such as another earth and another heaven as two separate places in which persons or beings will exist.     aM-6:30

     The Bible twice uses the term "New Jerusalem".  In considering all Scriptures it appears when the Bible speaks of the New Jerusalem it could very well be speaking of a city upon the new earth or be speaking of the saints that will dwell in this new city.  When Christ returns to the earth, the Scriptures indicate that Christ will bring the New Jerusalem with Him (Rev 3:12, Rev 21:2).  Does such mean Christ will bring the literal New Jerusalem with Him or does such possibly mean God will bring the saints and Angels that make up this city with Him?  Note numerous Scriptures speak of Christ bringing the saints and Angels with him at His second coming.  Although some of these things are not so important and are impossible to assuredly know, may we be open hearted to the many possibilities, rather than firmly holding to one particular view that really is hard to prove or verify.  When prophesies concerning God's future Kingdom use the words earth or Jerusalem they quite obviously need not necessarily be speaking of our present earth or the present city of Jerusalem, but very well could be speaking of the new earth or the New Jerusalem.     aM-6:31

     Jesus shortly before departure from this earth spoke to His disciples saying, "...I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.".  Considering all Scriptures, does it not appear that Jesus is now preparing mansions in the new world and the New Jerusalem for his followers, and does it not appear that at His second coming He will immediately take them to their new home which He has prepared rather than first reign on the earth and out of Jerusalem for a 1000 years?       aM-6:32

     According to Jewish tradition the Jewish groom in taking a wife would first go to where the bride lived possibly traveling several hours even if she lived quite near, as travel was slow in those days.  Together with the bride and her father he then would endeavor to establish the marriage engagement.  If he was successful he paid her father an agreed amount such as a dowry fee and together with his bride drank a cup of wine to celebrate and finalize the engagement.  After the engagement was finalized, he then would go back home for about a year and build a house for him and his bride.  Although the bride knew he would return in about a year, she yet did not know exactly when it would be, since a surprise return of the groom was their tradition.  When the groom then did return, the groom's friends in seeing him returning to take his bride would follow him and thus start a marriage procession on the streets heading for the bride's house and for the marriage.  The bride and her bride's maids upon hearing the groom's company coming would quickly try to prepare themselves for the occasion.  The bride in not knowing exactly when this all would happen thus likely was quite anxious and in suspense waiting for her groom and the marriage procession to come.     aM-6:33

     Jesus in taking to Himself His bride, the Church, has done very much like the Jewish groom did in taking his bride.  Jesus came to earth established the marriage engagement, bought the bride for His own, and then returned home to prepare a place for the bride.  After Christ has prepared a place for His bride He will come again, at any time to take her to Himself, that time possibly being at midnight.  In the parable of the five wise and five foolish virgins (Matt 25:1-13), five virgins were unprepared for the grooms coming and thus could not fill their place in the marriage activities and in the end were barred from the marriage.  One should consider how nicely the parable of the ten virgins aligns with this particular Jewish history, and consider how nicely this history and parable align with the belief that Jesus at His second coming will come and take His bride home, rather than come and establish a 1000 year reign on our present earth and in Jerusalem.  Are we ready for His return and the place He has prepared?       aM-6:34

     In considering prophesies and all Scriptures may we all take Paul's advise and not be found guilty of striving about words to no profit (2 Tim 2:14).  Yet may we endeavor to learn from prophesies and Scriptures what God has intended for us to learn from them.  May no one become discouraged or lose interest in the Scriptures because of the many differences which exist in Scriptural interpretation, but rather may all with an open heart seek for the truth.  Although Jesus knew His disciples had wrong expectations, yet He did not forsake them because of such.  Jesus rather slowly tried to bring them into a more perfect understanding of the truth, saying in John 16:12  "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now."    Yet may we all take heed that we hear with an open ear for Jesus also said;  "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."  (Luke 8:18).  The writer would like to encourage the reader to make his calling and election sure, and make certain he is adding to his faith the necessary and proper virtues for the Scriptures speaking of those who do such read,  "For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."  (2 Pet 1:11).  May we be found in this everlasting Kingdom where the sun never sets, enjoying the eternal day of blessings and rest which God has prepared for His children!     aM-6:35

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