The Old Testament In Relation To The New Testament

Article aN 1989

An article outline is given at the back of this article

Faith, Heart, and Spirit as in Both Eras

It is clear that God ordained a great outward change for His people as the New Testament era was ushered in. Yet concerning inner changes as the new era was ushered in, such as the necessary condition of man's heart, spirit, and faith to be accepted of God, such remained basically identical. Yet in the new era faith took on a greater knowledge of God 's salvation plan, especially for those within Christ's New Testament Church. Yet it should be considered that the core of faith is not knowledge, rather the core of faith is having an inner spiritual relation to one's creator, through which one knows, trusts, and believes his God. aN-1

In both Testaments God required a living faith to be accepted of Him. Abraham is called the father of faith. A lack of it is why God's chosen people Israel of the old era were prohibited from entering into Canaan for forty years. God called the Israelites, "....children in whom is no faith" (Deuteronomy 32:20). Faith in both Testaments effectually teaches one of His sinfulness and need of mercy. When faith is alive it is impossible to be lifted up or proud. Prophet Habakkuk spake of faith in the Old Testament saying, "Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith" (Habakkuk 2:4). aN-2

In both Testaments God required a broken (humble) and contrite (pure) heart and spirit to be accepted of Him. In the old era King David said, "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit" (Psalms 34:18). Isaiah of the old era said, "For thus saith the high and lofty one that inhabiteth eternity. whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones" (Isaiah 57:15). Jesus concerning the new era said, "Blessed are the poor [humble or broken] in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that morn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God" (Matt 5:3-4 & 6). A broken and pure heart and spirit relate closely to faith. Faith is a gift which God gives those of a broken and pure heart and spirit. Faith cometh by hearing the word of God, which consists both of His written word and the voice of the Holy spirit. As it is those of a broken and pure heart and spirit which hear God's word, faith thus is given to those of such heart and spirit. It is thus impossible to have a genuine faith without having a broken and pure heart and spirit, and impossible to have a broken and pure heart and spirit and yet lack that inner relation with God that believes God such as had Abraham the father of faith. aN-3 Although God's people of Old Testament were under the Mosaic law, their requirement to be acceptable to God was deeper than just to abide by a set of rules. The law of Moses was God's sovereign law and involved where one's affections were placed, it involved man's heart, spirit, and faith and was spiritual (Romans 7:14). Jesus concerning the Mosaic Law said the greatest commandments were to love God with all the heart, mind, and soul and to love one's neighbor as himself. For forty years God miraculously lead the Israel in the wilderness and fed them with manna to teach them "...that man doeth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord..." (Deuteronomy 8:3). God wanted His people to learn to live by His word and thus be a people of faith in Him. aN-4

In Romans chapter 4 Apostle Paul clearly reveals that man was saved by faith in both Testaments. Herein Paul repeatedly speaks of righteousness by faith. Herein he teaches that Abraham was saved by faith, saying in verses 3 & 9 that God counted Abraham's faith to Abraham for righteousness. Paul in verse 11 tells how that the ordinance of circumcision was as a seal upon the ordinance of righteousness by faith and tells how Abraham possessed righteousness by faith being yet uncircumcised. Paul also in verse 11 tells of Abraham being as a father of all those that would later believe, that righteousness might be imputed to them also. Paul again in verse 13 speaks of mankind in the old era being heirs to salvation through faith rather than by the law saying, "For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith". Also in Galatians chapter 3, Paul reveals that man was saved by faith in both Testaments and therein repeats many of the thoughts of Romans 4. He in verse 11 of Galatians 3 said, "But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for the just shall live by faith". aN-5

Because of a lack of faith God's people or Jews of the old Testament as a branch of God were cut off. Apostle Paul says of them, "Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou [New Testament Gentile] standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee" (Romans 11:20-21). Paul said, "but without faith it is impossible to please God'', such is clearly true for both eras of time. Without faith men lack heavenly power and effective service to God. Without a living faith what should be ways of Godliness, turn into merely a culture, and although things are still thought and said to be done in the name of God, the fact yet remains that tradition, conscience, peer pressure, and man's tendency to not want to think one's self to have succumbed to error, is what causes those involved to in blindness continue without change toward destruction, while fervency of spirit and the power of the gospel may have been long extinct. Such has repeatedly took place in both Testaments. Jesus taught with power and authority and not as the scribes. aN-6

Regeneration, Spiritual Birth

and Holy Spirit as in Both Eras

Regeneration, which is much one with a Spiritual birth, is also a vital element that was a necessity in both eras, and is spoken of much in both the Old and New Testament. Although the Old Testament never uses the wording, born again, born of God, born of His Spirit, or born of His Word, yet the Old Testament does speak of, man's birth of corruption, God doing a heart work in man, changing man's spirit, and the converting of the soul. Old Testament characters knowing man's corruption as transmitted through his first birth and recognizing man's need of another birth or justification said, "How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman?" (Job 25:4). King David said .... in sin did my mother conceive me" (Psalms 51:5). The Psalms speaking of a special birth read, "And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her. The Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there" (Psalms 87:5-6). It should be considered that the above birth into Zion likely involves a spiritual birth rather than a physical birth, since according to the experience of Spiritual birth, rather than physical birth, God records names in the book of life. The act of God doing a heart work is often spoke of in the old era. The following old era scriptures pertain to the regeneration of the heart and experiencing a Spiritual birth or awakening. Moses said "And the Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live" (Deuteronomy 30:6). King David said, "Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, 0 God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalms 51:2&7&lO). Ezekiel speaking the words of God said, "A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you : and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them" (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Ezekiel also said much the same words in chapter 11 verse 19 saying, "And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh". Note Ezekiel's above verse says "I will put my spirit within you". The Scriptures speaking of the conversion of the soul and sinner read, "Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee." (Psa 51:13) "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple." (Psa 19:7) aN-7

Although being born again, being born of God, being born of His Spirit, and being born of His Word, are of such importance, surprisingly wordings as such are only used in St. John chapters 1&3, Galatians chapter 4, 1 Peter chapter 1, and in 4 chapters of 1 John, while the wording, new birth, in not in the Bible. Although today the doctrine of the new birth is so popular, it is disastrous that true understanding of what it genuinely consists of, such as it's effectual workings of the heart, is mostly extinct. Many subconsciously think of being born again as mostly a once and for all experience and are unaware that the maintenance of a regenerated heart requires striving, diligence, and prayer, and is a continual process of allowing God to work with the heart such as He did among His people of the old era. aN-8

Although it is true that in the New Testaments era God's Spirit was made available in a new dimension, yet the possession of God's Spirit was also a necessity in both eras. concerning God's dealings with His people in Moses' time the Scriptures read, "Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them..." (Nehemiah 9:20). King David said, "Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me" (Psalms 51:11). Solomon said, "Turn ye at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you" (Proverbs 1:23). Ezekiel speaking of God's workings among His people in the old era said, "...a new spirit will I put within you: ...I will put my spirit within you..." (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Ezekiel reveals how God had poured out His Spirit in the old era saying, .... for I have poured out my spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the Lord God" (Ezekiel 39:29). As Old Testament individuals were saved by a personal faith it must needs be that they also had a personal connection to God's Spirit which only can endow this faith. aN-9

God's Old Era Kingdom of Israel, it's

Political Position, it's Wealth and Splendor, it's

Difficult Responsibility and Need to be Diligent

God's Old Testament kingdom of Israel was ordained to encourage truth, righteousness, and faith within the hearts and spirits of all men. God's kingdom then was governed by the Mosaic law. God ordained that His kingdom of the old era should be a kingdom possessing great military power. God ordained that this kingdom have just laws and should by military or physical powers, encourage truth and righteousness to all mankind and enforce justice and judgment upon the earth. Although it was of far greater importance to God that His people would be a beautiful kingdom inwardly, such as by the condition of their heart, spirit, and faith, yet God also ordained that His people of the old era would be a beautiful kingdom outwardly, such as by wealth and splendor. Inward beauty which consists of a broken and pure heart and spirit and living faith is of far greater importance than outward beauty and splendor because inward beauty is deep and genuine, is the element that pleases God, and has eternal value. Inward beauty grants those who possess it, to inherit eternal life, while no matter how much outward beauty and splendor one may acquire in their earth life, if they yet lack inward beauty they will be a subject of God's wrath throughout eternity. Yet since God also desired outward beauty and splendor for His old era kingdom, He was keenly interested in the wealth and material prosperity of His old era people and promised such to them as they kept a beautiful heart, spirit, and faith and were faithful in their first love and obedience to Him. As God desired that His people should shine forth with outward splendor, He was also keenly interested in the material items of His people. God was the designer of the detailed and elaborate wilderness tabernacle and of it's many elaborate furnishings. The wilderness tabernacle was a special dwelling place for God as was also the temple which Solomon later built. The temple built by Solomon likely was the most magnificent building the world has ever known. Gold and precious metals were most vital elements in God's building plans. Also many individuals in building were cunning and wise in all kinds of earthly skills and occupations and were blest by God in it. God speaking of the outward wealth and splendor with which He had blest His old era kingdom said, "I clothed thee also with bordered work, and shod thee with badgers skin, and I girded thee about with fine linen, and I covered thee with silk. I decked thee also with ornaments, and I put bracelets upon thy hands, and a chain on thy neck. And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head. Thus wast thou decked with gold and silver; and thy raiment was of fine linen, and silk, and bordered work; thou didst eat fine flour, and honey, and oil: and thou wast exceedingly beautiful, and thou didst prosper into a kingdom. And thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty: for it was perfect through my comliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord God, (Ezekiel 16:10-14). when the queen of Sheba came to Jerusalem to witness God's kingdom of Israel, she seeing much inward and outward beauty among God's people of Solomon's reign said, "the half was not told me". Yet in her final statement concerning the kingdom's beauty she spoke of it's inward beauty saying, "Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom" (l Kings 10:8). aN-10

Although God's people of the old era were ordained to rule and be rich, yet God's people in that time dared not trust in or have their love set upon their possessions. The Israelites were to possess their wealth in the way as did Abraham who because of his willingness to do with the lessor and his trust in God's care, gave Lot first choice of the land (Gen 13:9). Covetousness, oppression, and unjust gain were to be far from them! God's people of the old era as well as the new era did not have a road of ease. Many things which the Israelites were required to do were very difficult to the flesh. They were to carry out God's severe judgments on evil nations and thus were often required to kill without mercy man woman and child. Jeremiah 48:10 reads, "...cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood". aN-11

God is of exalted perfection and Holiness as compared to man who through sin has became depraved and corrupt. Mankind is prone to fail of that strict standard of inward beauty such as God requires of him. After Moses told many of God's laws and ordinances to the Israelites, he revealed to them the great diligence that is required in maintaining God pleasing inward beauty saying, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates" (Deuteronomy 6:6-9, 11:16-20). It is very sad that throughout most of the old era the Israelites did not with an all diligent effort strive to maintain a pure heart, spirit, and living faith and thus failed of the necessary inward beauty and thus many of such will yet throughout eternity experience God's wrath. When the Israelites failed of inward beauty God would chastise them by taking from them their governmental power and material prosperity and outward splendor. God chastised them as such to let them know He was displeased with them and to thus cause them to again attain to inward beauty, through seeking such firstly and with earnest diligence. It is sad that since man's ways are always right in his own eyes, often when the Israelites departed from God's standard of inward beauty they are not aware thereof and even persecuted the prophets which God had sent to them to reveal their lack to them. God's standard of inward beauty is spoken more of in another article entitled, "The Holiness, Perfectionism, and severity of God" (article aJ). aN-12

New Era Change and

Possible Reasons For the Change

It is sad that as God in the first era had ordained that His people of inward beauty also possess outward wealth and beauty, that His people would begin to love this outward wealth and beauty more than God who gave it, and pride themselves in their outward beauty and splendor, while yet greatly lacking inward beauty. Because of such, at times in the old era, man's outward beauty and splendor became repulsive and distasteful to God. Very possibly because of the above is why God in the new era does not sanction outward beauty and splendor for His kingdom as He did in the old era. As God in the old era not only desired that His kingdom be comely with inward beauty and perfection but also comely with outward beauty and perfection, He in the law of Moses established the following physical requirements for those Priests who would approach to offer the bread of God; "For whatsoever man he be that hath a blemish, he shall not approach: a blind man, or a lame, or he that hath a flat nose, or any thing superfluous, Or a man that is broken footed, or broken handed, Or a crookbackt, or a dwarf..." (Leviticus 21:18-20). As God's people of the old era turned their first love and allegiance toward outward wealth and splendor, they rather than fitting into God's plan for them, because of different attractions made selfish excuses. Jesus within the Parable of the Great Supper, in Luke 14:16-24, told how a certain man had made a great supper and invited many to come, but because they had other attractions, such as family and material possessions, they made excuses and would not come. Then Jesus said the man, "...being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind... Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper" (Luke 14:21-24). It appears Jesus in His above parable is portraying both, God rejecting the unfaithful Jews and inviting the Gentiles into His kingdom, and God making a turn about from His Old Testament establishment that His Holy kingdom of inward beauty should be adorned with outward beauty and perfection. Further on in this article are considered particular times of the old era, when outward beauty and splendor became distasteful to God and is further considered how God regards outward splendor in the new era. aN-13

A most vital change between the two testaments is that of God's chosen people no longer being a kingdom of this present world such as being a military power and of outward splendor. Jesus said, "...My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence" (John 18:36). Jesus here clearly reveals that His New Testament kingdom is no longer a military power of this world and revealed that His kingdom being as such, had experienced a change in that He said, "but now is my kingdom not from hence". Prophet Isaiah prophesying of Christ the originator and heart of God's new era kingdom spake of Him not possessing outward beauty and splendor saying, "...he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him" (Isaiah 53:2). Jesus teaching that His New Testament kingdom was not of outward splendor nor a visible military power but solely a kingdom of inward beauty said, "...The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: neither shall they say, Lo here! or Lo there for, behold the kingdom of God is within you" (Luke 17:20-21). The Jews in Christ's time understanding Christ to teach that citizens of His new era kingdom would no longer be involved with military defense said, "...what do we? for this man doeth many miracles. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation" (John 11:48). This important change within God's kingdom on earth took place with the beginning of the ministry of John the Baptist as the following scriptures reveal; "And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force." (Mat 11:12) "The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it." (Luke 16:16) aN-14

It appears that God's plan which was closest to His heart for those that chose to serve Him, was that they would be the rulers of the earth and be blest with riches and prosperity. Such is revealed in that God originally ordained, as in the old era, that those who served and pleased Him should be the rulers and wealthier of the earth. It is very sad that by far the greater of all mankind because of his corrupted nature, Satan's workings, and his own personal choice chose to love themselves more than God. During most of the Old Testament era the greater of God's people Israel were of hard hearts and uncontrite spirits, children in whom was little or no faith and most often they were under God's chastening rather than under the possible blessing. Because of the general wickedness of men in the old era, even in the old era when the righteous were ordained to reign and be rich, many times the wicked reigned and often such as rightly served God were persecuted. Yet throughout the first era of time, it is true that many times God's chosen and faithful people ruled and were very rich. But in general man totally failed in his God given responsibility toward his Creator and the world. Very possibly man failing his responsibility and God's plan for him as such is much of the reason why God ordained a far different approach for His New Testament kingdom regarding how it should relate to the present earth and things therein. Possibly God seeing His original plan for man was not working established a different plan. Paul speaking of the two eras said that God finding fault with the first covenant established the second (Heb 8:7-8). aN-15

New Era Improvements

Although God's New Testament kingdom is not ordained to with military power enforce justice and judgment on the earth nor to be of great wealth and outward splendor, yet the prophets speaking of the new era repeatedly and clearly tell of it being a superior and improved era. A most vital aspect of this improvement is that the new era ushered in a time of a greater outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon God's people, and likely a time wherein God's Spirit is providing a greater invitation to salvation to all mankind. This special out pouring of the Holy Ghost was a vital and particular occurrence which could not be accomplished without Christ ascending and being glorified. Such is revealed in the following scriptures, .... for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified" (John 7:39). "...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). Through this outpouring of the Holy Spirit, God's will and ways could be written more vividly within the hearts of His people. Jeremiah speaking of the time of this added revelation said, "...After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; .. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, 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..." (Jer 31:33-34). Paul speaking of the new era spoke of it as a "better covenant" and then referred back to the above scripture of Jeremiah. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit made possible a clearer and more assured faith in God and a better understanding of His eternal plan and ways. aN-16

Another improvement between the two eras is that in the new era man can approach God in a new way with his petitions. After that Christ's redemption was accomplished and man's sin debt was paid the vail, where through only the High Priest could pass to enter into the Holiest place, was rent in twain as to allow all men to approach God in a special way as before only the high Priest could. Paul in the new era says, "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus," (Heb 10:19). In the new era man can approach the Holiest place having Christ as his High Priest (intercessor). Paul speaking of Christ said, "…who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us" (Romans 8:34). "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities: but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Heb 4:15-16). aN-17

Other aspects of the improvement between the Old Testament and New Testament are, firstly through the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the improved access to the throne of grace, God's people of the new era could shine more brightly than before with that inward and far most important beauty. Secondly although God's new era kingdom would no longer enforce earthly justice and judgment as before, it could do that which is far more important than perform temporal justice and judgment. God's new era kingdom (since the Holy spirit was additionally given) could with new inspiration and greater power warn men of God's eternal justice and judgments such as will be eternally acted upon all who in life failed of possessing inward beauty, and could more effectually than before promote inward beauty and salvation to all peoples of the world. Thirdly to worship God in completeness and fullness no longer needed to be done at Jerusalem as in the old era, but now could be done anywhere on earth. The activities of God's church at Pentecost, such as their powerful witness of miraculous signs and wonders and their demonstration of an assured faith whereby they could not but speak the things which they had seen and heard, reveal that God's New Testament kingdom is not handicapped to effectively show forth God's truth, righteousness, and judgments and thereby move many to a pure heart and spirit, and living faith. Other aspects of the improvement of the new era will be touched on later. aN-18

Although the Bible repeatedly speaks of the superiority of the New Testament era it must be considered the Bible is written with it's foundation upon inward beauty and eternal values. The New Testament era is a superior and better era in respect to inward beauty and eternal values not according to outward splendor and temporal values. The new era is superior in respect to the safety and saving of souls and the production of good fruit of the earth to be placed within God's eternal kingdom, "...Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain" (James 5:7). The new era is not a time which is more pleasing to man's natural desires, for man naturally in his earth life desires wealth, outward beauty and splendor and wants to defend himself. It should be considered that the Jews in Christ's time seeing the principles of Christ's new era kingdom were displeased and because of such rejected Christ and clung to the principles of God's old era kingdom, for such was naturally more pleasing to one's natural inclinations. aN-19

Earth life Rewards for New Era

Although the citizen of God's new era kingdom must suffer persecution in a new way, yet Christ and Paul speaking of God's plan for His new era people spoke of it having reward for this present life. Jesus speaking of those who in the new era had forsaken all to follow Him said, "But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and brothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life" (Mark 10:30). Jesus here speaking of hundred fold houses and lands as well as spiritual relatives, likely meant since His people are so closely knit as one in the fear of God and love for Him and one another, many houses and lands would be as their own. Apostle Paul speaking of reward in the new era for this present life said, "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come" (1 Tim 4:8). This promise of the life that now is largely involves the security, peace, and joy God's child can have in his earth life because of his assured heavenly hope and assurance that God is watching over all things and will make all things work out to his good. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart troubled neither let it be a afraid" (John 14:27). "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost" (Romans 15:13). It appears as God in the old era, upon faithfulness to Him rewarded with material blessings, so in the new era upon faithfulness to Him He blesses with spiritual blessings such as a greater faith, and deeper hope of eternal life. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ" "... and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus" (Eph l:3, 2:6). Apostle Paul was blest with many Spiritual revelations. aN-20

It appears that in the old era God had ordained that His people should experience life on earth as an "outward heaven" by outward splendor and as an "inward heaven" by inward beauty and contentment. In the new era although the outward heaven has been removed the inward and far most important heaven yet exists. One should consider, firstly that no matter how much wealth and outward splendor one possesses, such cannot buy peace, contentment, and a living hope of eternal life, and one's life can yet be very empty, secondly consider that no matter how little wealth and outward splendor one has, if he yet in truth has that inward beauty of a pure heart and spirit and living faith he is rich, and lastly consider that an outward heaven cannot be properly enjoyed without an inward heaven. Oh may all be willing to deny themselves of an outward heaven in their earth life and possess a living hope of both an inward and outward heaven for eternity! aN-21

Law of Moses and Sacrifices

A most important purpose of the Mosaic Law, which was God's sovereign law, was that it was to act as a school master to bring mankind to Christ (Gal 3:24). The Mosaic Law was to teach man of his need of Christ (mercy from God, a redeemer), through requiring God's standard of perfection from imperfect man who could not attain to such perfection and thus revealing to man his need of something outside of his abilities. The Mosaic Law required that sins of transgressing this law be dealt with by the sacrificing of animals, inwhich their death and blood was required. God wanted mankind to know that sin requires death. Yet these animal sacrifices did not pay man's sin debt but only were symbolical of Christ's future sacrifice for sin and acted as a connection to the real payment for sin which Christ's sacrifice provided. Thus after Christ's sacrifice, which paid man's sin debt was accomplished, other sacrifices were no longer necessary. aN-22

Much of the Mosaic Law had the purpose of nurturing and encouraging a proper faith, heart, and spirit. Yet much of the Mosaic Law also pertained to laws concerning animal sacrifices, and pertained to laws which helped make God's people of the old era a greatly superior Kingdom of this present world. Since in the new era Christ's supreme sacrifice is accomplished and God's kingdom is no longer an outward kingdom of this present world much of the Mosaic Law is thus fulfilled. Jesus speaks of Himself fulfilling aspects of the Mosaic Law and sanctions those parts of the Mosaic Law which He did not fulfill saying, "Think not that I am come to destroy The law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven" (Matt 5:17-19). Jesus also sanctioned the Mosaic Law in that after one asked Him "which is the great commandment in the law?" Jesus answered him saying, ". . Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matt 22:37-39). Jesus then in the following verse 40 revealed that the above commandments contain the spirit (purpose) of the entire Mosaic Law saying, "On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" (Matt 22:40). Jesus did not fulfill the spirit of the Mosaic Law but rather sanctioned it. aN-23

The Law of Christ

In the new era Christ is the law giver, thus God's new era law consists of the teachings of Christ and those parts of the Mosaic Law which Christ sanctioned and did not fulfill. As God's kingdom of the old era was under the Mosaic Law, so God's kingdom of the new era is under the law of Christ. Apostle Paul speaking of himself being under the law of Christ said, "., being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ..." (l Cor 9:21). The law of Christ although much less complicated than the Mosaic Law yet requires a deeper sanctification and a deeper and keener adherence to the purpose and spirit of the Mosaic Law which was that men should love God with all their heart and love their neighbor as themselves. Jesus pertaining to this new era requirement of a deeper sanctification said, "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire" (Matt 5:21-22). "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart" (Matt 5:27-28). Jesus when asked why the Law of Moses suffered the Israelites to write a bill of divorcement and to thus put away their wives answered, "...For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife: And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" (Mark 10:5-9). Jesus said, "Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you, and persecute you;" (Matt 5:43-44). Yet it is important to consider that in the old era the Mosaic Law did not sanction all hatred but a proper hatred of enemies such as King David speaks of in the following verses; "Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee? I hate them with a perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies" (Psalms 139:21-22). It should also be considered that in the old era more than one wife was permitted while in the new era it is not. Jesus revealing the changes of the eras and the need of a deeper sanctification in the new era repeatedly said, "Ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time... But I say unto you...". Likely the deeper sanctification, such as became required in the new era, was required because of the greater spiritual graces made possible to man through the out pouring of the Holy Ghost. aN-24

The new era law of Christ, although it deeply deals with man's heart, spirit, and faith, is very simple as compared to living by the Mosaic Law which was as a very complex culture which required a great diligence and effort to learn of it's many ordinances and to properly maintain them. Since the new era kingdom is a spiritual kingdom of inward beauty rather than a kingdom with a complex organization of cultural laws where into it would have been very difficult to indoctrinate and gather other peoples, it appears the new era gave added opportunity for a great ingathering of all peoples of the world into God's New Testament church or kingdom. The prophets clearly and repeatedly speaking of God's new era kingdom, said the Gentiles and all nations would flow into it. Jesus speaking of this ingathering said, "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd" (John 10:16). Apostle John speaking of such said, "...but that also he (Jesus) should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad" (John 11:52). It is quite clear that God in the old era had not ordained that the righteous of the earth be gathered together into one kingdom in the extent as He has ordained for the new era. aN-25

Relating Formally to Things as in Both Eras

Within the Mosaic Law God established the law of putting fringes on the borders of the Israelites garments saying, "And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the Lord, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring. That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God" (Numbers 25:39-40). This old era principle of relating to things in formal and particular way to thereby maintain God consciousness, such as was utilized in law of fringes, was a successful principle as long as God's people remembered, that these formal laws were established to remind error prone man of the great diligence required in attaining and maintaining God pleasing inward beauty. Yet it is sad that most often God's old era people evaded and forgot the seriousness and purpose of laws with this principle and such laws became mostly a culture. At the time when Christ came to earth the Jews had largely departed from the Spirit and purpose of the entire Mosaic Law, and the whole Mosaic Law, including this law of fringes, was mostly adhered to as a culture. At this time the scribes and Pharisees wore the fringe more because of a love for themselves than because of a love for God. Jesus while on earth speaking of the scribes and Pharisees said, "But all their works they do to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments" (Matt 23:5). It is sad that the purpose of the law of fringes, as well as other old era laws which carried this principle, often failed their purpose. aN-26

In the new era God's people are to relate to all things in the way that promotes inward beauty and salvation to all men. Yet in the new era God did not ordain that His people must unitedly relate to things in a formal way, such as adhering to a law of fringes, to thereby obtain God consciousness and inward beauty. Possibly God ordained this change because those formal laws of the old era which were ordained to remind man to be careful to maintain inward beauty often because only a culture anyway. Yet it must be remembered that although the new era is a time wherein less care is focused on particular ways or relating to things, it is a time of focusing greater care on maintaining a pure heart, spirit, and living faith. God's people of the new era are at liberty for one to relate differently to things than another, as long as each one's personal aim is to attain to God consciousness and promote inward beauty and salvation to all. Paul teaching that formalism is not required in the new era and teaching that differences in ways of doings things can be permitted among God's new era people said, "Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him... One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks" (Romans 14:3-6). Concerning how God's people of the new era should relate to things is considered much further in another article entitled "The Spirit and the Spiritual, Their relation to the Law and Things" (article aR). aN-27

New Era Liberty and Improvements

The Bible speaking of the 0new era often speaks of it as a time of special liberty. One aspect of this is that in the new era God's people are liberated from the burden of the complicated Mosaic Law. Yet the Bible speaking of new era liberty is not speaking of liberty of the flesh, which is the liberty to follow one's natural inclinations, but is speaking of liberty of the spirit (2 Cor 3:17, Gal 5:13). As the Bible clearly teaches that the Spirit and man's flesh (man's natural inclinations) are contrary one with another (Gal 5:16-23), the liberty of the Spirit is thus far removed from liberty to follow one's natural inclinations. The liberty of the spirit involves the deeper sanctification as is made possible in the new era through the special outpouring of the Holy Ghost. In the liberty of the Spirit one attains to a greater freedom from lust, hate, envy, bitterness, fear, and offendedness etc. and rather experiences the fruit of the Spirit such as love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. Meekness temperance ..." (Gal 5:22-23). aN-28

Again concerning improvements of the new era some other aspects are; firstly since the vast effort that had been required in keeping the many rituals and formal laws of the Mosaic Law during the old era could now be placed elsewhere, the new era kingdom could more effectually than before promote inward beauty and salvation to all peoples of the world, secondly the new era ushered in a time when all of God's children of all nations can be united into one inward kingdom without unitedly adhering to a complex organization of many formal laws. aN-29

New Era Changes; Reward; Wealth & Self

Defense; Earthly Knowledge, Skills, and Responsibilities

Jesus speaking of the change for God's people between the Old and New Testament said, "...Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things both new and old" (Matt 13:52). The change of God's kingdom, which had been of military power, wealth, and outward splendor, being a kingdom of solely inward beauty involves numerous changes between the two eras. Some such changes are, firstly in the new era, earth life reward for faithfulness to God, is different than before, secondly God's people of the new era have a different earth tie and attachment than in the old era, thirdly God's people no longer have the same earth care responsibility as before, and forthly God's people are to relate to material knowledge and skills differently than before. As man's outward beauty and splendor at times became distasteful to God because of man loving and priding himself in such while yet lacking inward beauty, so it also appears man's material wealth and material knowledge, skills, and ambitions became distasteful to God because man so often set his first love on such material things. In the following paragraphs is considered different changes between the two eras; firstly is considered reward, secondly material wealth, thirdly material knowledge and skills, forthly earth care responsibility, and further on in the article is considered outward splendor, earth ties and attachments, and material labors. aN-30

Concerning God's reward to His people of the old era for faithfulness to Him, beside that of inward rewards, a clear and often repeated Old Testament message was, "Wherefore ye shall do my statutes, and keep my judgments, and do them; and ye shall dwell in the land in safety. And the land shall yield her fruit, and ye shall eat your fill, and dwell therein in safety" (Leviticus 25:18-19). "And ye shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword" (Lev 26:7). "If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword, for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it" (Isaiah 1:19-20). Concerning God's reward to His people of the new era for faithfulness to Him, beside that of inward rewards, Jesus promised houses and lands, yet it must be remembered Jesus said "with persecutions". Concerning reward in the new era, new era scriptures clearly and repeatedly emphasize eternal reward rather than material or outward reward saying as follows, "Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you (Matt 5:11-12). "He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal" (John 12:25). "...To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life... He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death... He that overcometh the same shall be clothed in white raiment: and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life... Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God... To Him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne" (Rev chapters 2-3). Although Old Testament Scriptures do speak of eternal reward for faithfulness to God, they speak more of material and outward reward than eternal reward. Although it is hard to understand, in the old era, it appears material and outward reward was accented more than eternal reward. Yet, concerning reward in the new era, it is clear that eternal reward is accented rather than material and outward reward. aN-31

God in that which He does is thorough, just, wise, and practical. In the old era as God had ordained that His people be a kingdom of this world with just laws and possessing much wealth, He thus also ordained that they use legal and military power to defend their great wealth and to enforce justice and judgment. As God within the new era has ordained that His people no longer are a kingdom of this present world responsible to defend justice as in old era, and rather now has "...chosen the poor of this world rich in faith...", He also has ordained that His people refrain from all legal and military defensive engagements and rather suffer evil, placing their affections and goals in attaining to that heavenly and eternal kingdom .... where neither moth not rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal (Matt 6:20). Christ's new era law says, "...resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also" (Matt 5:39-40). Yet it should be also considered that God at times sees fit to miraculously protect His children as they in the new era are defenseless, and as sheep among wolves (Matt 10:16). aN-32

Although in the old era, material prosperity and wealth was in God's plan for His people, concerning wealth for the new era the Scriptures read, "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt and where thieves break through and steal:" (Matt .6:19). "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. set your affection on things above not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:1-2). "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him" (2 John 2:15). "Hearken, my beloved brethren, hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?" (James 2:5). "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days" (James 5:1). "And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition" (1 Tim 6.8-9). Jesus said, "...How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" (Mark 10:23), "Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled... But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. or- unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger..." (Luke 6:20-25). When considering material possessions in the new era Christ's parable of the rich man and Lazarus should be soberly considered, where in after that Lazarus was in Abraham's bosom and the rich man was in hell pleading for water, Abraham answered him saying, ".. Son, remember that thou in thy life time receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented" (Luke 17:25). Jesus in Mark 10:30 promising hundred fold houses and lands as well as relatives to such as forsake all for Christ's sake, was not promising personal material prosperity and wealth but likely meant as His people are so closely knit as one in the fear of God and love for Him and one another, many houses and lands would be as their own. In the new era God ordained that His people place their emphasis on attaining to the wealth of inward beauty, and be a people rich in faith and salvation although no longer possessive of material wealth as in the old era. aN-33

Great knowledge and skills concerning earthly government, and all types of occupations was also God's plan for His people in the old era. Concerning great occupational knowledge and skills Exodus 35:31-35 reads, "And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship; And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, And in the cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of wood, to make any manner of cunning work... Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work". Yet concerning earthly knowledge and skills in the new era, new era scriptures read, "Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him "become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. Therefore let no man glory in man. For all things are yours:" (1 Cor 3:18-21). As God in the new era no longer is interested in or sanctions material wealth as He did in the old era, so He also in this way no longer sanctions earthly wisdom and skills. Prophet Isaiah prophesying of God ordaining this change said, "Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of the prudent men shall be hid (Isaiah 29:14). Apostle Paul speaking of God ordaining this change said, "...hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?" (1 Cor 1:20). Jesus concerning material knowledge and understanding within the new era said, "...for the children of this world are in their generation are wiser then the children of light" (Luke 16:8). Yet it should be considered that God's people are not to be poor and ignorant concerning earthly things just to be so, but rather such is to be the natural result of no longer placing emphases on such and because of having much higher labors and meditations in earnestly seeking the furtherance of God's new era and eternal kingdom. In the new era God has ordained that His people take the emphases off of material knowledge and skills and focus on attaining to inward beauty and salvation. aN-34

The following responsibility was given to man in the garden of Eden, "And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replentish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth" (Gen 1:28) "And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it" (Gen 2:15). The same requirement concerning earth care as given to Adam and Eve was also required of God's people of the old era. Within the Mosaic Law various laws concerning earth care were given. It should be considered that God's kingdom of the old era was not only to subdue the earth but also the wicked nations thereof. Jesus in the new era rather than teaching that God's new era people should be keepers and guardians of the earth as in the old era, rather said that since His new era people are not wise in earthly things they should make friends with those who are wiser in material things than they so when they because of their spiritual labors and material ignorance fail and have material need those friends would help them (Parable of the Unjust steward, Luke 16:1-9). Yet God's people may only accept provisions from those who are wiser in the world than they, as such provisions are given in a right way and as they are an asset in the work of the kingdom. Considering how that God in the new era has drawn His people apart from the world and things therein, it is clear that God's people no longer carry the same responsibility toward the earth and things therein as before. Yet although God's people of the new era are no longer ordained to be guardians or keepers of the earth as in the old era, yet it is clear that God's people of the new era are to do material work, and that they dare not be lazy or idol and must be diligent firstly in the kingdom and secondly in material labors. aN-35

Fasting, Jewelry, Luxuries,

Musical Instruments and Singing

Many things, such as were in God's plan for His people in the old era but are not in God's plan for His people of the new era, are things which are not wrong in themselves and are things which will be enjoyed in heaven. Many such things relate to outward wealth and splendor. Refraining from things which in themselves are not wrong is much one with fasting, as food is not wrong and yet at times God's new era people should refrain from food. Jesus speaking of a mustard seed yet effectual faith said it comes only by prayer and fasting. Properly refraining from things which in themselves are not wrong and fasting have much the same affect in that they both make one less earth connected and more heaven connected and God conscious. Although outward wealth and splendor was in God's plan for His old era people, even in that era fasting from food was an important ordinance for God's people. God through the Mosaic Law required that the Israelites at times eat bitter herbs. aN-36

The new era is a time of additionally refraining from things which in themselves are not wrong with the purpose of attaining to and maintaining a pure heart and spirit and living faith. Things such as pertain to outward splendor are things which in themselves are not wrong. Although jewelry was in God's plan for His people in the old era, yet apostle Paul in the new era speaking of the outward splendor of jewelry said, "In like manner also, that woman adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array." (1 Tim 2:9). Peter speaking of inward beauty and outward splendor for woman of the new era said, `"Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit is in the sight of God of great price"(1 Peter 3:2-4). Revelations 11 speaks of the witnesses of God being clothed in sackcloth prophesying to a blind and lost world. This being clothed in sackcloth corresponds with the above apostolic teaching that God's new era people should refrain from outward splendor. aN-37

It should be considered that in the old era during a very sober and crucial time after that the Israelites had greatly failed of God's plan for them God required that they strip themselves of all their ornaments or jewelry while He considered what to do with them (Exodus 33:5-6). Paul's new era instruction would have been very appropriate for that time which instruction reads, "In like manner also, that woman adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array." (1 Tim 2:9). The way God required the Israelites to remove outward beauty and be humbled and penitent because they had greatly failed God's plan for them, has something in common with the way God in the new era has dealt with His people since they in the old era so greatly failed of His plan for them. At a time in the old era when the Israelite's loved and prided themselves in their outward beauty and splendor while yet greatly lacking inward beauty, God revealed how their outward splendor became distasteful to Him saying, "Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making a tinkling with their feet: Therefore the Lord will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the Daughters of Zion... In that day The Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, ... the bracelets, and The mufflers, The bonnets, ... the earrings, The rings, ... The Changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, The glasses, . . and the veils. And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell their shall be a stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty" (Isaiah 3:17-24). Solomon speaking of the vanity and folly of a woman possessing outward beauty but lacking inward beauty said, "As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion" (Proverbs 11:22). aN-38

Musical instruments, like many other things, God sanctions or allows in their proper context or environment. Yet musical instruments really are not a necessity and one could use them in a way of creating a life of luxury and ease. In the Old Testament era the Jews were misusing musical instruments as such, and thus Prophet Amos even back then connected musical instruments with luxury and wrote somewhat negatively about musical instruments writing, "That lie upon beds of ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches, and eat the lambs out of the flock, and the calves out of the midst of the stall; {5} That chant to the sound of the viol, and invent to themselves instruments of music, like David;" (Amos 6:4-5). As musical instruments have some things in common with outward beauty and splendor and God no longer endorses outward beauty and splendor as He did in the Old Testament era, it appears musical instruments in the new era do not find the same importance or need as they did in the old era. Concerning singing, it is clear that singing is sanctioned in the new era. Yet even concerning singing, what types of singing is proper and beneficial to the Christian? Peter speaking of woman within God's kingdom of the new era said, "while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear" (1 Peter 3:2). Paul giving new era instructions said, "...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil 2:12). What types of music portray God's children in humility and fear with thankfulness praising God? Note the subject of musical instruments was considered much further in a later article in paragraphs bA-11:88-105. aN-39

In the old era even when outward wealth and splendor was in God's plan for His people, God's people often turned their first love and affections toward it. Considering the above and considering that in the new era outward wealth and splendor is not in God's plan for His people, if God's people in the new era do not properly refrain from outward wealth and splendor how much more will their first love tend to become attached to such? Could it be that as God in the old era had ordained the principle of relating formally to things to make His people God conscious, and careful and zealous before Him, so He in the new era has ordained the principle of abstaining from things which in themselves are not wrong to make His people God conscious, careful, and zealous before Him? aN-40

V Yet as abstaining from things which in themselves are not wrong is only for life, in heaven God's children will be rewarded with wealth and mansions. Likely also jewelry, musical instruments, and much laughter will be appreciated and enjoyed. This principle of refraining from many things in life, and after the marriage of the Lamb enjoying them corresponds much with how that one before marriage must refrain from his natural affections but afterwards they can be enjoyed. Yet how many will never be permitted into the heavenly marriage because of being fornicators with the things of this world by not properly denying their natural affections of things which in themselves were not wrong and thus were drawn away from a proper first love, trust, and faith? Paul was speaking of such individuals when he said, "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of The glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them" (2 Cor 4:3-4). It appears apostle James calls some adulterers and adulteresses because of their friendship with the present world, he says "Ye adulterers and adulteresses know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God" (James 4:4). aN-41

Vast Changes Christ

Instigated in Both Heaven and Earth

Christ's earth life, death, resurrection, and ascension not only established vast changes on earth but also instigated several vast changes in heaven and eternity. In the old era heaven contained Christ only as an invisible Spirit, while in the new era heaven possesses Christ in a bodily form, since Christ experienced the taking on of a physical body in coming to earth, and then ascended to heaven as such. Christ in His death and resurrection, was the first born from the dead, and by these acts it appears He opened death's door making possible that the souls of the saints that died could depart from their abode on earth and ascend to be with Christ and be kept under the alter as in Rev 6:9. Satan has troubled heaven and the angels and has caused disaster and great tribulation on our earth. "...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil" (1 John 3:8). The Scriptures quite clearly reveal that after Christ's ascension their was war in heaven and Satan was cast permanently therefrom, thus being deprived of his former power to move about from heaven to earth (Rev 12:1-12). Rev 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...". Rev 12:12 reads, "...Woe to the inhabitants 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". The above subjects of Christ's incarnation, the abode of the souls of the saints, and the heavenly Kingdom are quite extensively considered and quite clarified in another article entitled "The Millennium and Christ's Kingdom" (article aM). The above changes in heaven as the new era was ushered in, reveal that a particular reign of Christ with the souls of saints that had died, began in heaven as the New Testament era was ushered in. aN-42

As written before a likely reason why God established such a different plan, concerning military power and outward splendor, for His new era kingdom is because man so miserably failed God's original plan for Him. Yet, could it be other reasons why God in the new era is no longer interested in earthly government and outward splendor on earth as before are, because of God focusing His interests on that perfect kingdom of both inward and outward beauty which was established in heaven when Satan was cast out and because of the near destruction of our present earth? Paul said, "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God", and said, "...for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God" (1 Cor 2:12&9). Yet it is also true as Paul says, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" (Romans 11:33). aN-43

New Era Battle Against

Evil, and the Dark Time of New Era

It appears that the New Testament era is a time of a more intense Spiritual welfare between good and evil. It is clear that the Holy Ghost was poured out in a greater measure after Christ's redemption and ascension and is striving with men as never before. Yet it is also quite clear that in the new era Satan is tempting and endeavoring to deceive mankind with additional wrath since it appears that it was after Christ's ascension that Satan was cast out of heaven "having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time". The improvement of the new era is not in that it provides an easy road to salvation, but rather the new era through outpouring of the Holy Spirit provides added fuel or motivation to strive against sin. Although the new era has advantages, yet during it, only those who will strive against sin will be saved. Jesus giving instruction for the new era said, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate:, for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able" (Luke 13:24). The Apostles concerning the new era said, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" (1 Peter 5:8), "...it was needful for me to write unto you and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints" (Jude 3). ".. work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil 2:12). "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light" (2 Cor 11:14). Paul knowing the grave dangers of his brethren becoming lukewarm and failing of Godly inward beauty, the power of the Gospel, and salvation, was grave and sober and repeatedly spoke of the tears he shed because of his concern for them. Although many new era Scriptures emphasize freedom and liberty from the law they are not teaching a easy road to salvation but were given to encourage God's new era people to let go of formalism, as formalism had become deeply rooted within many because of having lived under the Mosaic Law. It should be considered that the entire New Testament was written soon after the new era began in which time many needed to be exhorted to detach themselves from the formal Mosaic Law and attach themselves to the informal yet powerful law of Christ. aN-44

Although the new era is an era of superior potential yet Christ and the Apostles clearly prophesied that the New Testament era near it's close, nigh unto the dawn of eternity, would drift into and enter a dark and dreadful period. One of Christ's teachings concerning this says, "While the bridegroom tarried, they [citizens of His new era kingdom] all slumbered and slept". Although Satan experienced a special binding as the new era was ushered in, Revelations speaking of the period of time prior to Christ's second coming, say that Satan was loosed again a little season (Rev 20:3). Revelations also concerning the period of time prior to Christ's coming speak of the witnesses of God laying dead on the streets (Rev 11:3-12). Paul said, "in the last days perilous times shall come... evil men and seducers shall wax worse, and worse, deceiving, and being deceived". Both eras of time experienced good and bad periods depending on if man, according to God's ordained plan, availed himself of the grace available. The old era also had times of special revival and times of great lukewarmness. Prophet Ezekiel quite clearly speaks of God pouring out His Spirit upon the Israelites in some measure after the time of their captivity in Babylon (Ezekiel 39:23-29). Yet the Bible in no way speaks of any other outpouring of the Holy spirit as particular and special as that outpouring which was accomplished after Christ's ascension. Yet how can one be assured that the dark period before Christ's coming is a better time than many times of the old era? aN-45

Earth Ties, Sobriety, and

Material Labors as in Both Eras

Concerning earth ties and attachments in the old era a clear and repeated message was, "Thou shalt keep therefore his statutes, and his commandments, which I command thee this day, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days upon the earth which the Lord thy God giveth thee, for ever" (Deut 4:40). Hezekiah after being told that he would die wept sore and prayed his earth life to be lengthened which request God granted him (Isaiah 38:1-5). Concerning earth ties and attachments for God's people in the new era a clear and often repeated New Testament message is, .... even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body" (Romans 8:23, 2 Cor 5:2, 5:4). Apostle Paul said, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord" (2 Cor 5:8). "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. ...For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better" (Phil 1:21-23). Paul after teaching the fifth commandment "Honor thy father and thy mother", also wrote the Old Testament promise that accompanied it saying, "That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth" (Eph 6:3). Although keeping this commandment carries a blessing and promise in the new era, yet because of God's new order for His new era kingdom this promise obviously does not guarantee the outward element which it did in The old era. aN-46

Likely a vital reason why God's new era people have such a different attachment and tie to earth is because, through the outpouring of The Holy Spirit they have a clearer and more assured awareness of eternal values such as; firstly of heaven's eternal safety and incomprehensible reward of both inward beauty and outward splendor, secondly of the heinous fate of the lost, thirdly of the wrath and depth of Satan, and fourthly of the grave dangers of one losing Godly inward beauty and his salvation. Other reasons which likely cause God's new era people to have such a different attachment and tie to earth are, firstly the new era requirement to bear persecution in a new way, such as misuse from people, and the greater denying one's self of those things which man naturally desire, and secondly in the new era when one dies his soul immediately departs to be with Christ which was not possible in the old era. aN-47

Concerning light heartedness and sobriety the old era scriptures read, "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;" (Ecclesiastics 3:4). "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones" (Proverbs 17:22). Yet it should considered that medicine for one's heart and spirit is much more important than medicine for the physical body. "...but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day" (2 Cor 4:16). Old era scriptures also teach that inner medicine for the heart is more important than the medicine of laughter for the physical man, reading as follows, "It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth" (Ecclesiastics 7:2-4). The New Testament exhorts sobriety and graveness much more than in the Old Testament. Although the Old Testament encourages one to be wise and not a fool or foolish, yet the words sober, sobriety, grave (such as meaning deeply sober), and gravity are not used in it. Some likely reasons why the new era is a time of greater graveness and sobriety are; firstly the bestired wrath and intense activity of Satan, and secondly the more vivid and assured awareness of the vast powers of good and evil and the eternal worlds to come. "For in much wisdom, is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow" (Eccl .1:18). Yet in the new era, in proper situations, such as when with the family and young children, would not some slight laughter be proper? aN-48

Concerning material labors in the old era, the following old era verses within Ecclesiastics highly value and sanction them saying, "There is nothing better for a man, than that he should he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in all his labor. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God" (Ecclesiastes 2:24; 3:13). "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave wither thou goest" (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Although material labors in the old era were highly valued as such, concerning material affairs and labors in the new era Paul said, "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier" (2 Tim 2:4). Yet Paul also concerning material affairs and labors said "Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord" (Romans 12:11). "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men," (Col 3:17 & 23). Although Paul in the above verses reproves material slothfulness and says we are to do our material labors heartily, He says "heartily as unto the Lord". It should then be considered that as one relates to his material labors and affairs heartily as unto The Lord, he will relate to material labors and affairs according to God's new era principles. Considering, firstly that God in the new era no longer has the same keen interest in material things of earth as in the old era and no longer values and sanctions them as then, secondly considering that God in the new era has not ordained that His people should so devotedly and ingeniously relate to material knowledge and skills as before, thirdly considering that God in the new era has not ordained that His people should enjoy outward or earthly prosperity, wealth, and splendor as in the old era, and lastly considering that God in the new era has rather ordained that His people be unentangled with the material affairs of life so they can with better undivided ambition labor in helping all find inward beauty and eternal life, it becomes quite clear that the above old era verses in Ecclesiastes 2.24; 3:13; 9.10, do not carry the same sanction on material labors as they did in the old era. It should also be considered that the phrase within Ecclesiastes 9:10 which reads, "for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave wither thou goest" does not hold the same value in the new era since in the new era the souls of saints after the death of the body immediately depart to be with Christ. aN-49

God's Power and Splendor, Man's Errors

May no one think that because God's new era people are not possessive of outward power and splendor that their God is weak and without outward power and splendor. His power and splendor is well proven in the old era and by the rewards God has ordained for His people in heaven! In the new era although God's people no longer have power to punish the wicked yet God has given His people additional power to rescue the wicked from his wickedness. Although God's new era people no longer reveal God's great power and wrath upon sin by destroying the wicked, God's infinite power of punishment will be revealed and acted upon the wicked throughout eternity. Truly God's great power and the vast outward beauty, splendor, and treasures God has ordained for His people are hid within a picture that without close study portrays the opposite. aN-50

It stirs the emotions of the writer to consider how mankind in general is in error concerning many vital truths and principles which have eternal consequences. Some such errors are; firstly not understanding God's vast power, wealth, splendor, and ways because of not looking at the Bible picture deeply and with diligence, secondly not understanding what the genuine standard of inward beauty required by God consists of, and lastly not understanding the vast change between the old and new era. It is sad that many individuals today in 1989 have a form of godliness only because of their connection to those many years ago who had this form with the power thereof. Paul said the last days would be a time of mankind "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof..." (2 Tim 3:5). Those who endeavor to get into heaven during the new era on old era principles will meet the same defeat those experienced that yet endeavored to enter the promise land after God had said they must now wait forty years since they had refused to enter in when God had ordained they should enter (Numbers) 14:40-45). This article has been written with a desire that many including the writer could better understand the relation between the two Testaments, and could thus build on a proper foundation, experience the power of the Gospel, and attain to eternal life. In conclusion may many be willing to deny their natural desires and lose what would otherwise be their natural life in this present world to thus be eligible to enter the heavenly marriage and then enjoy the fullness of all things throughout eternity! aN-51

ARTICLE OUTLINE Par Num

Required condition of Faith, Heart, and Spirit in Both Eras 1-6

Regeneration - Spiritual Birth, as in Both Eras 7-8

Holy Spirit, as in Both eras 9

God's Old Era Kingdom of Israel 10-12

It's military power 10

It's wealth and splendor 10

It's difficult responsibility 11

It's need to be diligent 12

New Era Kingdom Change 13-14

Possible reasons of change 15

New Era Improvements 16

Holy Spirit in new dimension 16

Entrance to most Holy Place 17

Furtherance of salvation 18

Improvements based on eternal values 19

Earth Life Rewards For New Era 20-21

Laws of Christ and Moses 22-25

Sacrifices 22

Mosaic Law fulfilled 23

Christ's law, sanctification requirements 24

Christ's Law not complex as Mosaic Law 25

God's people united in new way in new era 25

Relating Formally to Things as Regarded in Both Eras 26-27

New Era Liberty 28

More New Era improvements 29

Changes Between the Eras 30-35

Reward, as promised in both eras 31

God's Ways - Self Defense 32

Wealth, as in Both Eras 33

Material Knowledge and skills as in Both Eras 34

Earth Care Responsibility, as in Both Eras 35

The Principle of Fasting 36

Jewelry - outward splendor 37-38

Old era jewelry 38

Musical Instruments 39

Singing 39

First Love Beguiled by Things 40

In Heaven Rewarded With All Things 41

Vast Changes Instigated by Christ's incarnation,

death, resurrection, and ascension 42

Lessor Possible Reasons of Kingdom Change 43

Spirit reveals deep things of God 43

New Era Spiritual warfare 44

Carefulness and striving required in new era 44

Dark Age of New Era 45

Concerning Earth Ties and Attachments in Both eras 46

Possible reasons of difference 47

Concerning Light Heartedness and sobriety in Both Eras 48

Concerning Material Labors in Both Eras 49

God's Vast Power and Splendor 50

General and Critical Errors of Man 51

(Count 14,815 2/17/01)