All too often, we somehow believe that if God only made life easy; then, we would worship Him. Yet, our hearts so quickly content with counterfeit joys; we turn our back on Him with no excuses. During my studies for school this week, a thought came to mind which drives home this point. Studying Ezekiel 40-48 brought this truth to mind. Ezekiel prophecies about a new temple and a time in which God’s Glory will once more fill the temple as he foretells of a time when God will reign upon this earth a thousand years. There will be peace, love, and righteousness on earth. Satan and all his demons will be chained during that time period (Revelation 20:2). Surely, when Christ reigns in this manner, all would worship Him with praise! But, alas; people through the evil within their own hearts will sin.
Ezekiel describes a new sacrificial system that will be enacted during that time period. Although, this sacrificial system will be one which looks back to the finished work of Christ; instead of as the old sacrificial system looked forward to His coming. Nevertheless, it does indicate that human hearts under no influence from Satan; will sin. “Any temptation to sin during the Millennium must come from within those people who are born after the kingdom begins.”[1] The sacrificial system, although mandatory; never was what saved the people. Rather, it was an act indicative of their faith. During the millennium; it will serve as a reminder of the awful price our Savior paid for us on Calvary. It also reminds each person of their own rebellious evil hearts; even when, God’s Glory shines bright and Christ reigns on earth.
NO EXCUSES
Therefore, the Millennial Reign of Christ will serve a two-fold purpose. It will fulfill God’s promise to Israel as presented in Isaiah 60-61 and it will reveal the truth that mankind has no excuse. Each one born stands culpable for their own sin. No one can blame Adam or Satan; because, each one has their own choice. As Paul wrote in Romans 1:18-23.
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things.
Exactly how God accomplishes this in every heart may be a mystery to us; however, God does not need to explain Himself. That through the great commission, He graciously allows us to share in His Glory; does not negate the fact He doesn’t need us to reveal Himself. Rather, He graciously allows us to be witnesses for Him; which, should make each and everyone of us more diligent in our testimony of Him. Our desire to spread the gospel message should be an overflowing of our abounding love for Him. We love to talk about that which we love.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Why the Creator of the Universe continues to extend His Grace to a pride filled foolish bunch such as we, is beyond me; but He does. We stand as merely a speck of dust compared to this vast Universe. An insignificant grain, located on an insignificant planet, in some corner of the Milky Way; yet, God loves each and everyone of us. He who knows the name of every star; also, knows the name of each one of us. He knows our heart cannot find true Joy, Being, or Peace apart from Him; and despite our rebellion, He calls each of us; yearning us to come to Him. To truly love; one must be able to reason and to choose. Will you choose Him today?
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.
OR ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?
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Recently released Books Available
ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY
A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.
WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”
Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.
You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
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©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Credits and Footnotes
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
[1] [1] Jerry Falwell, ed., The Liberty Annotated Study Bible, (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson,1988),2013