A Discussion about Bible Prophecy Covenant {Replacement} Theology Pt. 2

Continued…
 
Introduction: Another underlying problem with Replacement theology—Covenant theology—is that, believe it or not, some of this stems from ANTISEMITISM {hostility toward the Jews—Israel}, although they may not be aware of it.

After researching this subject, it was revealed this {antisemitism} can be connected, whether knowingly or unknowingly, to Replacement theology. This anti-Jewish sentiment is spreading across our world like a wildfire, even in America. ISRAEL—Jews—are hated today throughout the world—look at what happened recently when the 23-year-old gunman {woman?} wrote, “6 million—speaking of Jews—was not enough.” This was before he brutally shot and killed two innocent children along with wounding a number of others at this Church—Christian School. That was satanically driven!!
 
Speaking of Satan, do you remember in Rev. 12 the great red dragon—Satan—hates the woman and her child {Israel and Jesus Christ} and seeks to kill Him? Don’t forget, our Savior JESUS CHRIST was a JEW!
 

1. Back to the passage of Scripture in Galatians:
As you know, the book of Galatians was written by Paul, who was inspired by God to explain the subject of JUSTIFICATION—evidently, there were many FALSE teachers in the Churches, like today, misleading people concerning what it meant to be saved, plus even after being saved.

Keep in mind, the Church had been established at Pentecost (Acts 2), but many JEWS were being saved along with many GENTILES. It was creating problems because the Jews were telling & teaching that the Gentiles had to KEEP the Jewish LAWS {613 or more} plus do the Jewish ceremonies, etc., in order to be saved, JUSTIFIED {that was legalism—like today some think they can be saved by good works}.

To refute this nonsense, Paul is led by the Holy Spirit to clarify the difference in the two groups {Jews and Gentiles} and their relation to the Church {those Jews who were alive at that time—however, many had died before Jesus Christ was crucified and raised from the dead—what do you think God is going to do with them? That’s another subject, but He has a plan for them according to the Old Testament}. But once Jesus Christ died for our sins and arose from the grave, they all {Jews—Gentiles} could be justified and placed into the Church. That is the same message and purpose for God the Holy Spirit writing the book of Romans, Corinthians, etc.—Jews and Gentiles could be saved and justified without legalistic means.

But what about God’s promises to the Jews—Abraham and his descendants—before the Church was established?
 

2. Take a closer look at what Paul wrote in Gal. 3:29.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”

Many who embrace Replacement theology say, “Abraham’s seed was the Church.” {The Physical seed of Abraham—in other words, we, the Church, replaces Israel.}

That is incorrect—the Church is the “SPIRITUAL SEED” of ABRAHAM! That is, we BELIEVE God by FAITH and are JUSTIFIED before God {like Abraham was justified by his faith; see Rom. 4, James 2, etc.}. That is what Paul meant! Again, that is the PURPOSE of this letter {Galatians} to verify that we, the Church, are like Abraham & the Jews {as we believe God by faith in Jesus Christ’s redeeming blood} even as they offered BLOOD as sacrifices—they obeyed what God told them to do—thus, they were justified {by faith—taking God at His Word}. Today, we put our trust and faith in Jesus Christ and are justified (Rom. 5:1).

In the light of all of this just stated {justified by faith}, it does not negate the UNCONDITIONAL COVENANTS that God made in the Old TESTAMENT with ISRAEL before Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. Also, another problem is that some of those who interpret the Bible that way {replacement theology—the Church replaces Israel} deny the LITERAL MILLENNIUM reign of Christ {it is called preterism}. They say we are now living in the KINGDOM & deny Rev. 20 as literal. {They say we—the Church—are building the Kingdom.} That is “KINGDOM NOW theology” that is so prevalent in the Christian world. {This writer used to think this way before really doing a thorough study on the subject}. But the literal KINGDOM of God, according to the Bible, will take place when the KING—JESUS {Rev. 19:15,16}—comes to this earth to set up His earthly KINGDOM {Government—Isa. 9:6,7; Dan. 7:14; 1 Cor. 15:24,25; Luke 1:32,33}.

We are now living in the CHURCH age. The KINGDOM is after Christ comes in His second coming, not the rapture (Matt. 24; Luke 21; Zech. 14, etc.). Admittedly, we are now living in God’s UNIVERSAL KINGDOM but not His LITERAL prophesied KINGDOM where Jesus sits on the throne, and the devil is bound for 1,000 years. That is the KINGDOM prophesied throughout the Scriptures!
 
3. Honestly, many who teach replacement theology are very hostile {and can be very ugly} toward our belief in the RAPTURE of the Church prior to the tribulation. {Some get fighting mad while talking with them about this subject??}
 
Conclusion: Does it really matter how you interpret Bible Prophecy? Please note that this will NOT change one’s salvation if they are redeemed but GRACE alone thru FAITH alone in CHRIST alone {the doctrine of soteriology}. But it will affect their understanding and teaching of correct End-time—{eschatology}—Bible doctrine, which Paul wrote to Timothy, Titus, and the Churches while stressing the extreme importance of having the RIGHT kind of DOCTRINE!
Having a proper method of interpreting the Bible is an absolute. Understanding God’s plan for Israel as it unfolds in the Old Testament and goes into the New Testament is the key to the correct method of interpreting the Bible. Distinguishing between God’s plan for the Church and His plan for Israel is a non-negotiable. Have you made that distinction? Do the study.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


A Discussion about Bible Prophecy Covenant {Replacement} Theology Pt. 1

Introduction: This devotion is a result from a discussion answering a question from a text message from a Christian friend. Careful reading.
 

1. CALVINISTIC – COVENANT Theology – REFORMED Theology or otherwise called REPLACEMENT Theology {The Church replaces Israel} is very prominent today.
Granted, some Calvinism {Covenant Theology} is good mainly concerning the doctrine of “soteriology” {how to be saved}, but when it comes to Bible Prophecy – “eschatology” {end time}, which is studied in only a few seminaries, colleges, and Churches – there are some concerning problems.

Actually, it’s been my experience with talking with graduates and Christians from those institutions that probably very few have really studied in great depth on this subject, namely Bible Prophecy, which includes both the Old Testament as well as the New Testament; more specifically, checking out what God had promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob along with the Jewish people.

Truthfully, in comparing those who speak on this subject without proper training would be like us talking and instructing a neurosurgeon about how to perform brain surgery! Really? By the way, googling YouTube can be helpful for quick answers but it does not replace years of studying with a concentrated effort in a specialized field—in this case eschatology, or Bible Prophecy—just saying.
 

2. This devotion will be sharing some personal information but with a desire to be teachable and humble, because we are all still learning (this writer included). For this reason, our Lord led this Pastor {student} to pursue both a Master’s degree and a PhD in the specific subject of eschatology, Bible Prophecy {it took 5 years of study there, plus 12 other years working on BA, 2 other Master’s degrees, and a Doctor of Ministry—all that means really is I’ve been in school a LONG TIME!! But still do NOT know it all!}

In addition to both the academic and practical study, a dissertation was required to complete the PhD degree while working in the specific area of Bible Prophecy – eschatology – and the end result was a writing and publishing a book, which is now in print entitled “Church Now Kingdom Later.” Throughout the book, this subject is analyzed in detail. Warning: it is very detailed, but trust it will help those understand this subject more thoroughly.
 

3. One’s hermeneutics {interpretation method} when it comes to studying about “eschatology” end time {both Old Testament & New} is extremely important. That is where one of the problems exist. Instead of approaching the Bible to make it fit in our system {so often as Calvinism – replacement theology – the Church replaces many of the promises God gave to them}, the proper approach is to take the Scriptures LITERALLY. And where apocalyptic literature is used, follow the proper method to interpret it as well.

Those who hold the Calvinist approach {replacement theology – Covenant Theology} while interpreting the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, would use the ALLEGORICAL method—not the LITERAL method. The allegorical way is trying to read more into the Scriptures with a mystical meaning instead of reading it as it is written, literally {remember the best way is the Literal method}. For example, their method claims we the Church – (Gal. 3:29) – replace God’s unconditional covenant with Abraham. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”

Check out the word “SEED.” What does it mean? Spiritual or physical?

To be continued….

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Abundantly Blessed when Overly Stressed

Introduction: Feel stressed? Why? Are our problems out of the reach of our God? What should we do? The Psalm we are reading today is full of hope and blessing. Most interpret this chapter during the days of good King Hezekiah while he was surrounded by the enemy who was threatening to invade. The Lord was his helper and strength! Share this with someone you love. It will bless them.
 

1. When you feel stressed we have a Place of SAFETY in Jesus! (Psa 46:1) – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

The picture is a raging fire ravaging a forest while all the animals are running for SAFETY! Do your problems sometime seem to be closing in on you? There is a refuge! Run to Jesus!!
 

2. When you feel stressed we have a Place of SAFETY in Jesus even though we live in a world of UNCERTAINTY! (Psa 46:2-3) – “Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.”

At the blink of an eye, things change in this world. Wars and rumors of wars, pestilences, natural disasters, family setbacks, financial woes, and the list goes on. But in the middle of all the chaos, Jesus is there! He knows our name, our pain, and our frame. Trust Him today!!
 

3. When you feel stressed we have a Place of SAFETY in Jesus even though we live in a world of UNCERTAINTY because of God’s SOVEREIGNTY! (Psa 46:4-5) – “There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. 5God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.”

While in the one hand things look like they are unraveling, in all actuality they are going according to our Lord’s plan. He is in CONTROL! Therefore, we can safely and confidently put our life in His hands. Will you, at this moment, experience His PEACE and JOY that passes all understanding.
 
Conclusion: Did you catch the key points? 
* Jesus is our SAFETY
* Even though in this world there is UNCERTAINTY
* All because of God’s SOVEREIGNTY
 
Does this bring PEACE to your heart? Stop and meditate on these truths. Yes we face stress. But truthfully, we are abundantly BLESSED!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Faith Refined

Introduction: How is our faith in Jesus being refined? Can you tell? Check out the following progression. 

1. Faith Defined! (Heb. 11:1) – “Now Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Faith is based on believing God’s Word. Simply put, it is taking our Lord at His Word. There is saving faith, living faith, and dying faith. Do we really exercise trust in the Lord? Even through the fires of affliction, is our dependence upon Him?

2. Faith Refined! (1Pet. 1:6-7) – “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations. That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:”

In order for our Faith in Jesus to grow, it must be refined on a continuous basis….from glory to glory. Is your faith in Jesus being tested right now? What should you do? 

Answer: Let the Master Potter….mold and make you after His will. 

In the crucible, our faith is being purified. That is what Peter is teaching. So now, is your faith being purified?

3. Faith Designed! (Rom. 4:19-21) – “And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb: 20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.”

In God’s economy, the element of faith is the key that unlocks heaven’s blessings. Will you unlock the door?

Conclusion: While this is simple, yet it is profound – Faith is the victory – from root to fruit. So is your faith in Jesus growing or shrinking through the fires? It is meant to be enlarged.

Once we step back and see the big picture, then we can cooperate as our faith is being refined through the furnace of affliction. 

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Over and Under

Introduction: Impetuous Peter had to learn WHO he was, not to mention WHO God is. He quickly discovered WHO the devil was. Have you? Follow the trend in this great passage that goes from coming under Authority, to overcoming Anxiety and the Enemy that ultimately leads to Victory.

Here are the four steps.

1. Realize with proper perspective WHO you are and come “under” His Authority! (1 Pet 5:6) – “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”

In order to be overcomers, we must learn to come “under.” Are you willing? Submitting to God’s authority is not easy but it is best! Let’s face it, we have a certain amount of independence that wants to oppose authority. Be honest?
 
2. Remember WHO God is so that He will lift you “over” your Anxiety! (1 Pet 5:7) – “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
 
Remember to be “careful” is to be full of “care.” Do you have care? Full?
 
3. Resist the devil because of WHO he is being our “outside” Enemy! (1 Pet 5:8) – “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

Our arch enemy is none other than Satan. Peter knew about his attacks; and yet, he also experienced the restoration of Jesus Christ. Bottom line: When we fall prey to the enemy, Jesus Christ will lift us up. Do you need to be restored?
 
4. Rejoice because WHOSE you are because He that is on the “inside” will give you Victory! (1 Pet 5:9–10) – “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

Praise the Lord for the Victory! In spite of the devil’s attacks, Jesus Christ has overcome the devil; therefore, we too can overcome!

Conclusion: Again, the key to Overcoming is coming under Authority, which leads to rising above Anxiety and the Enemy, and that ultimately leads to Victory.

 

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Living and Giving

Introduction: Have you ever heard the saying, “Do you’re giving while you’re living, then you’re knowing where it’s going”? The faithful followers of Jesus Christ in the Church of Philippi did just that! They gave not only of their “time” but also of their “treasures.” Are you giving of your time and treasures? Really, it boils down to fully trusting the Lord in our life, which includes finances as well as family. It has been said that you can tell a lot about both a man or woman by how they spend their “time and money.”

What would your personal resume look like if that is the case? At any rate, we can learn much from the latter part of Paul’s inspired letter to the Philippian Church in regards to this subject. Check it out:
 
1. Give of your SUBSTANCE! (Phil 4:15-17) – “Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. For ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.”
 

Apparently, the Church had given to the needs of Paul’s ministry several times as he mentions. Because of their generosity, he was able to do the work of the Lord—spreading the gospel. But ultimately, as he reminds them, they would benefit greatly with the blessings of God.

I love the following statement. St. Chrysostom points out that he uses the Greek verb akin to the noun (tokos) meaning interest on money, seems to imply that he, a Greek, understood the phrase to be borrowed from the money-market. If so, we may translate, the interest that is accruing to your credit. Now that says it all! In other words, you cannot go wrong investing in heaven’s bank account! Will you trust Him?
 
2. Give of your SERVICE! (Phil 4:18) – “But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.”
 

Paul is saying in essence, “I’ve got the receipt on your NEEDED GIFT!” It was like the summer rain on a scorching hot day. The gift or gifts (perhaps clothes, money, etc.) were greatly appreciated. The comparison was like the sweet smell of beautiful flowers or the fragrance of a special offering.

Can you relate to what he is saying? Have you ever received a gift just in time to relieve your heavy heart? It is SWEET to say the least!!
 
3. Give of your SELF! (Phil 4:19-20) – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
Bottom line: GOD will PAY YOU BACK! That is in one way or another!!
 
Conclusion: Since we cannot OUT GIVE GOD, OUT SERVE GOD, or OUT LOVE GOD, it stands to reason to be a BLESSING in order to receive a BLESSING!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Trust Without Seeing

Introduction: Truthfully, isn’t it difficult to TRUST the Lord when you cannot see the answer or the end of a trial? Yet, the Scripture teaches that without FAITH it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6). Here are some insights that will help you when you’re going through a time of testing – testing your FAITH in Jesus (Heb. 12:1-3).

1. TRUSTING the Lord Jesus when you cannot see! (Rom. 4:17-22) – “As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.”
 
Abraham TRUSTED his God…to the point that even though he had not received the promise, he counted it and called it DONE! Wow!! Love it!!!
 
2. TRUSTING the Lord based on His WORD! (Heb. 11:6) –But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
 
Did you notice that our God REWARDS those that both seek Him, and believe Him?
 
3. TRUSTING the Lord when things do not always go the way you want them to! (Job 13:15) – “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.”
 
In spite of his hardships and suffering, Job determined to TRUST the Lord.
 
4. TRUSTING the Lord because He knows our situation! (Job 23:10) – “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.”
 
Job, with the eye of faith was able to see the end of his trial, which would result in him being purified.
 
5. TRUSTING the Lord and not leaning on own own understanding (Prov. 3:5-6) – “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
 
Depending on our limited knowledge and wisdom always leads to missing the mark. However, TRUSTING in Jesus results in His will and wisdom.
 
Conclusion: TRUSTING Jesus is not blind faith. Instead, FAITH in JESUS begins and ends with His credibility and immutability. His promises are true. His character is faithful. He has proven Himself over and over again. Will you TRUST Him today and forever?
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


The Place of Contentment

Introduction: The last few devotions have been on the subject of CONTENTMENT. Why? Because so many people—even CHRISTians—are discontented. In other words, always looking for something new; i.e., a new thrill, a new discovery, a new feeling, etc. Boredom has escalated with the technological changes. Now, instead of years ago, real personal relationships are being substituted for fantasies. Entertainment has become America’s full-time passion. Think about it. Even in the apostle Paul’s day, believers were searching for more than Jesus Christ to satisfy their needs. Of course, much of this unending quest stems from a deeper problem. So where and how can we find CONTENTMENT?
 
1. First, realize there will always be a counterfeit CONTENTMENT! (Eccl. 1–12)
According to Solomon’s writings, at one time in his life, it consisted of WINE, WOMEN, and WEALTH! However, he eventually discovered the joy of satisfaction could be found in a relationship with the God of creation. Have you found that to be true? In other words, what is it going to take to make you HAPPY? While admittedly there is pleasure in what the world has to offer, albeit, it is temporary and costly! WISE men and women look ahead, more specifically at the consequences of being out of God’s will for your life.
 
2. Secondly, CONTENTMENT is achieved by fulfilling our Lord’s purpose for your life!
And by the way, that does not just mean finding “the right job,” “the right spouse,” or owning “the right car or truck,” or even having “the right friends,” although there is nothing wrong with all the above. Read further.
 

3. Thirdly, CONTENTMENT is discovered in the following:

knowing WHO you are in Jesus Christ.
knowing WHY you are here on earth.
knowing WHERE you are going when you die.
knowing HOW to live a life that honors the Lord Jesus based on biblical principles in His Word, and by the power of the Spirit of God.
 
Would you agree?
 
Conclusion: So the real question remains… are you at the PLACE of CONTENTMENT? If not, why not? Check over this devotion, make the changes with the help of the Lord, and get to the PLACE of CONTENTMENT. This is our Lord’s guarantee for HAPPINESS!
 
Love y’all,
Your Pastor Randy Reese


Contentment because of Enablement

Introduction: So how can we be content no matter our circumstances? Let’s face it, in ourselves we cannot consistently be satisfied. We need an extra POWER SOURCE! That is where the Holy Spirit comes into the picture. Obviously, the power of the Holy Spirit enables us to not only WITNESS—by sharing our faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8), but also live out our faith in our relationship with Jesus with contentment. Please GO BACK and READ that sentence again!
 
1. Contentment! (Phil 4:11-12) – “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”

Imagine being confined in jail waiting for your execution. Not much of a life, huh? Not a lot to look forward to really? But if you are a Christian, then there is a glorious homecoming awaiting! Paul knew that. Do you? When we get to the place by the GRACE of God where we do not have to have the latest gadgets, games, or entertainment, then we are learning more and more to be content. However, obviously there is nothing wrong with God’s blessings. But if they were taken away tomorrow, would we still be happy? Time for a check-up.
 
2. Enablement! (Phil 4:13) – “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

In order to live in contentment continuously, there must be a transformation. Actually, this transformation happens from the inside out through the New Birth. Afterwards, the process of being weaned from the world’s pleasures and temporary satisfaction enables the believer to be an overcomer. Are you overcoming?
 
Conclusion: Honestly, without the power of the Holy Spirit releasing His life from within we could not rise above our circumstances from without. But praise the Lord, we can through Jesus Christ our Lord!
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese


The Key to Contentment

Introduction: Are you Content? What does it mean to be “content”? Where was the apostle Paul when he was inspired to write about “contentment”? If you said incarcerated, that is correct. It seems that we can either choose “contentment” or resentment? Take Paul for example, he could have BLAMED God on his circumstances. Or perhaps he could have been filled with anger. Do you ever get angry? However, he overcame his circumstances. Consider how he did it. There is a KEY that unlocks the DOOR to CONTENTMENT.
 
1. The KEY to Overcoming instead of being overcome by your Circumstances! (Phil 4:11) – “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

The word “content” is αὐτάρκης, which means satisfied regardless of our external circumstances, self-complacent. But remember, Jesus Christ is the key that unlocks that satisfaction.
 
2. The lock that opens the door to overcoming your circumstances from not enough, to just enough, and to more than enough! (Phil 4:12) – “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.”

In other words, when being “deprived” or lacking thereof compared to experiencing a surplus or a time of exceeding, either way, according to Paul, it was all GOOD! Have you come to that place? By the way, the word “instructed” is μυέω which means learned the secret. Have you, like Paul, learned the secret of being fully satisfied no matter what?
 
Conclusion: Do you know and have the KEY to CONTENTMENT? Have you inserted it into the lock that opens a life of SATISFACTION no matter what your circumstances are? Why not open it up today?
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese