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| 1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: |
Jude – Thaddeus. (Matt. 10:3) R3044:2
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| 2 Mercy unto you, and peace and love, be multiplied. |
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| 3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, 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. |
The common salvation – The salvation from sin, from death, from human imperfection to human perfection; full restitution and life eternal. R4398:1
A general salvation for the world of mankind, as distinct from the special salvation of the elect. NS392:5, 395:4, 653:1; R611:5
A different salvation from the salvation for the Church, the Body of Christ. R5063:6, 742:1, 611:5
The general salvation to human life and its privileges. R611:5
Jesus' death for the world entitles all to life, the life lost in Adam. R327:6*
This salvation comes in advance to the Church. The advantages of restitution are imputed to them on account of their faith. R4398:2, 611:2; Q619:2
This salvation is once for all (only once) "delivered to the saints." R352:4*
Earnestly contend – With gentleness, long-suffering, patience, brotherly-kindness, love; not anger, hatred, malice or strife. R5057:4, 5056:6, 4803:5
Not in a biting and devouring manner. (Gal. 5:15) R3858:3, 3752:4
In a spirit of love; the spirit of Christ. R2804:1, 3031:4, 397:2
For the truth against error, but not against the brethren. R3752:4
Not to be captious or contentious over non-essentials; to make mountains out of trifles. R4803:5, 4008:3
One might be contentious for some pet theory of his own, rather than for those principles of righteousness which the Bible inculcates. R5057:4
Man-made differences should be ignored, and only those doctrines which the Scriptures clearly and distinctly set forth are to be insisted upon and contended for. HG750:3
Pride is a part of selfishness; therefore in contending for his own ideas one might be cultivating pride. R5057:4
Not from motives of self-glorification, but from love for the truth, the Lord, the brethren. R4803:5
Against the selfish human and devilish arrangements which prevail at the present time. R5057:4
Especially since Satan is on the alert continually to take our faith from us, or to turn or twist it to our loss or injury. R4527:4, 4534:1
Sometimes Satan's arts seem to be employed to get those who are trying to live godly into contention with each other by making unimportant things seem important. R5117:2
Fight earnestly. R3274:3
While striving to maintain unity of spirit in the bonds of peace (Eph. 4:3), yet never sacrificing truth for either unity or peace. R397:2
For the faith – Faith in the Redeemer's sacrifice, in our justification, in the glorious promises of God's Word, in the Lord and the brethren. R4527:4, 5557:3, 5057:1, 4533:6
In the divine plan, in the Redeemer, in the efficacy of his death, etc. These matters are positively stated in the Bible--not left to deduction, as in the case of chronology and all matters based upon chronology. R5348:5
Of which the Atonement, the Ransom, is the center or hub. F630; R4008:3, 2532:4
In Christ Jesus, the Deliverer of mankind from the power of sin and death. R5557:3
Faith that God will use the seed of Abraham to bless all humanity. R5245:4
The faith that has confidence in God, has led to a consecration even unto death; that would not take back the sacrifice, but which delights to see it consuming, hoping thereby to share in the glory that shall follow. R2770:6
Which cannot subsist or increase unless knowledge shall increase, based upon the divine revelation, and coming into harmony with the Almighty, so as to be able to apply the promises and to recognize that they belong to the individual. R4731:3
Which illuminates the hearts of all the humble. R1421:2
Composes the household of faith. (Gal. 6:10) SM636:1
Which is the spiritual walls of Zion. R4778:4
By pointing out the snares of the adversaries of the truth, by calling attention boldly and fearlessly to every pitfall and placing the light of truth over it. R1128:1
"The high [heavenly] calling, which is of God in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 3:14) "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." (Heb. 12:2) CR424:6
"Precious faith." (2 Pet. 1:1) R2137:1
"Building up yourselves on your most holy faith." (verse 20) SM127:2
"I delivered unto you first of all, that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures, and that he was buried; and that he rose again the third day." (1 Cor. 15:3, 4) R1572:2
Paul condemns those who taught that the resurrection was past already and overthrew the faith of some. (2 Tim. 2:16-18) R119:5*
It cannot be expected that everyone will love us and speak well of us because of our stand. R5657:2*
Certain doctrines are all-important to true union among true Christians. D173; R4008:3
The apostles foretold of the falling away of the church from the faith. HG655:5
Nothing is plainer than that our sectarian divisions arose from our neglect and loss of "the faith once delivered unto the saints." OV284:2
Many theological teachers today are denying the Bible and advancing strong arguments in favor of Higher Criticism, Evolution, etc., thus growing worse and worse in repudiating the faith once delivered. Q853:2; NS816:1
Let us discriminate between the errors of the "Dark Ages," which have come down to us in the various creeds of Christendom, and the truth of God's Word, which to some extent was intermingled with the errors. HG420:3
Not Higher Criticism, Evolution, Christian Science, Theosophy and other Bible-denying theories. E62; R4778:2, 2137:1
A word of encouragement to those who are struggling against philosophies and science so-called respecting Evolution through human conceptions of salvation contradictory to the Bible. HG420:2
A heart-quality of trust in the Lord, acquired through the knowledge of God and acquaintance with him. R4731:3
This means more than intellectual and even heart (saving) faith in God and in Christ. CR424:3*
The life of Christ--the life principle taken in, lived (eaten), and manifested in loving labors and sacrifices for the good of others--is the beginning of a higher life, the pledge of immortality. R327:6*
Unto the saints – The truly consecrated among professing Christians. R1139:1
For the Church only. CR424:5*
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| 4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who before were written of from ancient times to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. |
Are certain men – The Grecian philosophers. E286
Into lasciviousness – Self-exaltation, taking advantage of the spread of truth to add to their own influence and apparent wisdom, and introducing their own false teaching. R552:5
The only Lord – Greek, despotes, sovereign. E70
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| 5 I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. |
Ye once knew this – But from which they were in danger of being turned aside. R552:5
Afterward – Literally, the second time, thus illustrating the second death. R1450:1*
That believed not – Everlasting life through Jesus Christ is only to those who obey him. R1265:4
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| 6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
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And the angels – All the angels were exposed to a peculiar temptation in connection with fallen mankind. They were subjected to a great test as to their obedience. R5429:5, 5706:3
Angels who previously had been holy and obedient, became transgressors. F620; R4976:1
The "spirits in prison" which were disobedient in the days of Noah, preached to by Christ's death and resurrection. R4068:5; HG727:6
For 4,400 years the fallen angels have been exiles from God. R5160:5; SM118:2
These fallen angels are the demons or devils, the evil spirits, lying spirits, seducing spirits. R2171:3, 4577:3, 4521:2, 4068:3, 3771:3; SM196:1, 198:2
Angels of darkness, wicked spirits. (Eph. 6:12) R2843:6
We should not be surprised if some of them have repented. R5019:5, 5043:5, 4880:3; Q20:T; SM196:1, 98:1
Which kept not their – They assumed human bodies for sensual reasons; to live as men and bring forth a new race. (Gen. 6:1-4) R5622:5, 4976:1, 2843:5; E104; SM97:1
Degraded their nature. R777:2; SM97:1
Preferred to live on the earthly, animal plane. R4682:2, 5019:1, 3934:4, 2843:5; OV17:4
First estate – In which they were created, the spirit or angelic condition. SM195:3, 547:1; R4682:2, 3934:4, 2171:4
Of purity and sinlessness. R254:2, 2843:6, 892:6
Fell from their holy estate. R5706:3
But left their – They left their own proper condition of living and nature that they might live on a lower plane; live in sin. SM196:T, 97:T; R5115:6, 5019:1, 2843:5
In violation of the divine arrangement. R5115:6; SM97:1
"Which sometime were disobedient." (1 Pet. 3:20) R4976:1
Misused human bodies which they had been privileged to assume for benefitting and assisting mankind. R3934:4
God foreknew, foresaw, this fall, as he did Adam's. R2843:6
The test of their faith was much greater than is ours. R5116:1
Thus God tested the faith of the holy angels. R5115:6
Own habitation – Condition as spirit beings. R5160:1, 2171:4, 1679:2, 1678:2; PD17/26
Their own nature. R2843:6
He hath reserved – Confined; isolated from fellowship with God and the holy angels, and hindered from having intercourse with mankind as previously. SM98:T; R5043:4, 4682:2, 2843:6; Q17:T
Consigning them to Tartarus, the atmosphere of this earth, mistranslated hell in our Common Version. (2 Pet. 2:4) SM97:3, 195:1; R5043:5, 2646:4, 254:2; Q19:5
Cast them down to tartaroo; literally, the lower atmosphere; hence the devil is called "the prince of the power of the air." (2 Pet. 2:4; Eph. 2:2) HG30:2
Because of their violation of God's covenant. R5162:2
Restrained at the time of the flood. R4521:2
A penalty of restraint instead of death sentence, as in the case of man; thus manifesting God's "much diversified wisdom." (Eph. 3:10--Diaglott) E413; R1670:4; Q20:1
When these fallen angels break loose from their restraints it will result in the whirlwind or four winds let loose upon the earth. Q737:2
In everlasting chains – Having their liberties restrained, no longer permitted to materialize and thus to associate with humanity. R5043:5, 4068:2, 777:4; SM118:2; Q17:T
Which have, since the flood, hindered them from materializing in human form, and obliged them, if they would have anything to do with humanity, to do so secretly or through agents, mediums, witches, etc. R4068:2
Age-lasting chains of restraint, forbidding them to appear as men. This power has not been forbidden to the holy angels. R1678:2
The "spirits in prison" which were disobedient in the days of Noah, preached to by Christ's death and resurrection. R4068:5; HG727:6
Restrained in darkness and kept from using their powers. Q20:1, 671:1
Isolated from the Lord and the holy angels, these fallen angels are since known as demons, or devils; and are cooperating with Satan "the prince of devils" (Matt. 9:34) as mischief workers amongst men. F620; HG752:2; SM97:1
Restricted as respects their powers of fellowship with the holy angels and being no longer privileged to appear as men, they still seek human fellowship, endeavoring to gain possession of human beings. NS805:3
Under darkness – Not permitted to exercise their powers in the light. R2171:4, 4976:2; PD17/26; Q671:T, 20:1
The darkness of the night. Q804:3
The first and foremost condition of all their manifestations. They cannot endure the full glare of a tallow candle, even though placed in the farther corner of the room. HG30:2
It is possible that some of these limitations may ere long be removed, gradually. R2171:4, 266:5, 3490:2; Q671:T
Some limitations as to darkness may gradually be removed to allow them to work deceptions or "lying wonders" in the daylight--as they are now attempting to do--more than ever has been known since the flood. HG725:2
Unto – Until. R2171:4, 1679:3, 266:5; Q464:2; SM196:1
This would seem to imply that Satan will have no part in the judgment of the great day, but would not, of necessity, prove it. R5019:2[R5019:2]
"Until" seems to imply that when we reach that time, then the restrictions are broken, and materialization may again be possible. Q464:2; R3490:2, 2171:4, 266:5; PD17/26; SM118:2
Through spirit-mediums (who know not that they are mediums of the fallen angels), the demons are now telling that shortly they will have power to materialize, as of old. SM118:2; R4070:4, 3490:2, 1643:1, 266:5
That they do now materialize, and appear in the actual likeness of the person they choose to represent, is placed beyond all reasonable doubt by the testimony of numerous and creditable eye witnesses. HG30:3; R4069:4; SM119:1
The demons will have considerable to do with stirring up the great "time of trouble" (Dan. 12:1) with which Messiah's Kingdom will be established. R5059:1, 4070:4; Q22:3; SM198:2; PD17/26
The judgment – Greek, krisis, trial. R1679:2, 4069:1
Decision time. R4070:5
In the sense of trial, and not sentence. Q22:3, 17:T; R4879:3, 4069:1
This trial, or judging, or testing, will be along the line probably of their previous trial or testing. (Gen. 6:1-5) Q16:6; R4070:4
They needed not to be purchased before they could be judged or tried, because they had not been sentenced to death and are not in death. R1853:6, 1680:4, 4069:2
We may assume that some, having witnessed the manifestation of God's love in sending Jesus, have fully repented, ceased their deception of humanity, and are hoping for some leniency in the judgment. R4068:3
In the immediate present and within the next few years. R4070:4, 5576:6, 5429:5; SM548:1; Q22:3
"God spared not the angels that sinned, but . . . reserved unto judgment." (2 Pet. 2:4) R2171:4, 1679:2; F620; PD17/26
"Do ye not know that the saints . . . shall judge angels?" (1 Cor. 6:2, 3) R4068:5, 4879:3, 1679:3; Q19:4, 672:T
It is possible that the saints on this side of the veil may have something to do with their judging; reproving, exposing, condemning them. R4070:5
Of the great day – The Millennial day, when we may expect them to work lying wonders in the daylight. R2171:4, 3727:1, 1679:2
The seventh day, the great day of Messiah; of the Kingdom of Messiah, the Sabbath day. R4879:3
The day of Christ, the thousand-year day; at this very time we find evidences that these fallen spirits are obtaining more liberty. R4976:5, 4069:3, 3727:1, 3490:2
Refers to the present time before the judgment of the Millennial day. We surmise that as they are getting loose now, they imagine that God is not able to hold them. Q22:3
The day for which mankind is also waiting for its trial. R1679:2
The permission for them to find and use means of materialization and communication with mankind will furnish the special trial and testing of the fallen angels. It will prove which of them are sorry for sin and at heart now loyal to God, and which are otherwise. It will be within the period of man's day of trouble. R4070:4
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| 7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. |
Sodom – "I [God] took away them as I saw good." (Ezek. 16:50) R1270:4
After strange flesh – God deprecates any mixture or blending of nature. R1678:4
For an example – Both of his vengeance and of his mercy. R1618:2
For the restraint of those who should afterward live ungodly. (2 Pet. 2:6) R1779:2, 1270:5
An illustration of those who would suffer everlasting destruction or second death. R4070:3, 5351:2, 1857:3, 1860:2
As a type. R5948:3, 1860:2
Of eternal – Fire whose effects were eternal. Q262:4
Greek, aionios; age-lasting. R1618:2
Even the Sodomites, who are held up as an example of wickedness, and as suffering the vengeance of the eternal fire, are to share in the restitution. HG17:3
Fire – A symbol of destruction. R1618:2
Utter destruction, not eternal torment. R3947:2
Everlasting destruction or second death. R4070:3
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Eternal fire – "Eternal" here is Strong's G166We remember that Strong's G165 means "age" or "age-lasting." So here, the thought is that the evil cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were both destroyed, but will be brought back in the resurrection. "It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgement than for that city." Mark 6:11. |
| 8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. |
Speak evil of dignities – Of those whom God has honored and "set" in the Body. (2 Pet. 2:10) F166
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| 9 Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. |
Yet Michael – Signifies "who as God," or one representing God. C62; R490:5
Chief messenger; one in superior control. R490:1,4
Christ. B145; D414; R490:5
The Captain of our salvation. D548
The archangel – Signifies chief messenger. R490:1
One in superior control. R490:4
With the devil – Whose very existence is now being denied by many. F609
Disputed about – Satan desired to have the corpse to use it for the further misleading of the people, who might carry it as a mummy--which might become a temptation to idolatry. R5054:4; Q807:T
The body – The mysterious disposition of which typifies the disposal of our Lord's fleshly body. B130; R2478:6
Moses – Jesus and the Church unitedly constitute the antitypical, or greater Moses. Their inheritance is heavenly; hence, the type should not show an earthly grave. Q807:T
That God did miraculously hide the body of Moses we are assured here. B130
The appearance of Moses at the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:3) was not a reality, but a "vision" (Matt. 17:9); Moses here represented the earthly phase of Christ's Millennial Kingdom. R1761:2
Durst not bring against him – As Michael, we are not to judge Satan nor to revile him. R5267:1, 2309:3
Our Lord acknowledged him to be the prince of this world. (John 14:30) R5847:6
The Lord rebuke thee – We are to let the Lord rebuke present institutions in his own time and manner. F608
We are not permitted to pass sentence or inflict penalty. R3939:1
Instead of attempting to take vengeance upon our adversaries, we should commit our way and theirs to the Lord's keeping. He will know how to make proper allowances for head and heart. R4488:3
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Compare Zech. 3:1-2 |
| 10 But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves. |
These speak evil – Should grievous wolves, back-biters, slanderers and contentious persons attend any meetings of truth people, they should be treated so Scripturally as to make them ill at ease at these love feasts. R4461:4
We are not to expect that the consecrated, faithful followers should be exempt from all intrusions of false prophets, false teachers, false brethren, and wolves in sheep's clothing. R1663:6*
As brute beasts – All not willing to recognize and obey the King of Glory are to be destroyed as "natural brute beasts." (2 Pet. 2:12) R5847:4
The new creature once died to sin, and to have it revive means a return to wallowing in the mire--ready to be taken and destroyed as a brute beast. Q507:8
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| 11 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core. |
Woe unto them – Those once among the elect who commit willful sin. F166
Picturing Ishmael, Esau, natural Israel, and the "tares" of the Gospel Church. R2778:3
The spirit of pride, sectarianism, ambition, are the leading features of the wrong course, which will develop a bad fruitage. It will produce false, persecuting brethren, heady, high-minded. SM223:2
In the way of Cain – The sin of Cain was hatred of his brother--murder. R3044:2
The error of Balaam – The error of Balaam was love of reward; he was willing to do evil for it. R3044:2
Forsaking the ways of righteousness for earthly gain. Peter's words (2 Pet. 2:10-22) imply that this class will be found principally among the teachers of the Church, and chiefly in the end of this age. F166
Representing ministers of the nominal church who teach falsehood for earthly gain. F166; R2204:6
Thus confirming the account of Balaam in spite of the teachings of modern theologians. A61
Gainsaying of Core – The gainsaying of Core was his rebellion against divinely instituted arrangements. (Num. 16:1-3) R3044:4, 4047:2
Korah, "not holding the head." (Col. 2:19) F120; C200; R2461:2, 3613:5
"Not afraid to speak evil of dignities." (2 Pet. 2:10) F166
A demonstration of lack of faith. R4047:1
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| 12 These are spots in your feasts of love, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; |
These are spots – The "grievous wolves" (Acts 20:29), "backbiters" (Rom. 1:30), "slanderers" (1 Tim. 3:11), and "contentious" (Rom. 2:8). R4461:4
Those who turn willfully and deliberately back to the will of the flesh. R5486:2
Feasts of charity – Not a "supper" to commemorate the Lord's death, but an ordinary lunch; a "love feast" observed in thankfulness and joy. R1014:2
All who partook in the common meals with the early Church were not brethren indeed. R1014:2
Twice dead – If the Christian sins willfully, the seed of the new nature is dead. Nothing would then await him but the second death; for he had been lifted out of the first, or Adamic death. To die again would mean he had come under the penalty of God's law a second time. R5742:5, 4855:1, 4843:1, 4830:3, 4656:1, 4626:3; Q507:8, 658:5
A person in this condition will surely manifest the spirit of Satan--anger, malice, hatred, envy, strife. R4606:1, 4626:3
Those who sin willfully, after a knowledge of the truth, after tasting of the Word of God, after partaking of the holy Spirit, then falling away. (Heb. 6:4-6, 10:26) R5641:2, 1056:2
Those who die the second death (Rev. 20:6, 21:8), having done "despite to the spirit of grace." (Heb. 10:29) R4634:6, 5641:2, 1056:2; OV152:6
Ceased to have any relationship with God. R4656:1
Spoken of one who, once begotten of the holy Spirit, has willingly, intentionally adopted the old life of sin. One for whom there would be no more sacrifice for sin. (Heb. 10:26) R4830:3
If one begotten of the spirit lose the spirit, become dead to spiritual things, then he is "twice dead." R4855:1, 4626:3; Q658:5
Therefore, gradually passing into outer darkness, he will see no more than a nominal church-goer or any worldly person. R4606:1
This would mean that, the fleshly will having revived, the spirit-begotten new will had died. R5486:2, 4843:1, 4656:1; Q507:8
Two classes are described as "twice dead." One is a class who repudiate the covenant of sacrifice and turn back to the ways of the world. Another is those who renounce the Redeemer, the merit of his sacrifice. R4872:5
Plucked up by the roots – Cast forth as rejected branches. (John 15:6) R1056:2
Belonging to the thorn and brier family, and not to the vine. (Heb. 6:8) R4592:3
Taken and destroyed as a brute beast. (2 Pet. 2:12) Q507:8; R4843:4; OV145:4
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| 13 Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever. |
Raging waves of the sea – Masses of mankind not under religious restraint. R333:1
When all mankind are brought under God's Kingdom, there shall be "no more sea." (Rev. 21:1) R333:1
Wandering stars – Those who depart from the truth, and become "heady," false teachers, "vainly puffed up," aspiring to be considered authorities in the same sense as the apostles. (2 Tim. 3:4; 2 Cor. 11:13; Rev. 2:2) D594
God ordained only "twelve stars" as lights for his Church. (Rev. 12:1) D594
The blackness of darkness – What is left for those who have gone clear back on their covenant, and for those who return to sin. R5270:2
The reward for those who will not hear with ears unstopped, and not see with eyes opened in the kingdom arrangement. NS386:4
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| 14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, |
And Enoch also – Was used as a divine mouthpiece. R4939:2, 4386:4, 3417:3
Vaguely foretelling the gospel. E384
Enoch not only prophesied but believed, and it stamped his entire character and made him separate from the world. R4386:5
A prophecy of restitution, qualifying Enoch as one of God's holy prophets referred to in Acts 3:19-21. HG337:4
The seventh from Adam – Seven in the Scriptures is recognized as a perfect number and indicative of perfection. Enoch would represent that perfect man, or man in his future state when he will not die. Q262:T
Enoch seems to be a type of the perfect Adam; possibly a hint that man's restoration to perfection would be in the seventh thousand year day. R108:6
Behold – Observation will show. R631:4
The Lord cometh – Messiah cometh. R4881:4, SM89:1
Greek, eelthe, came; prophetic, like Isa. 9:6. R149:1*
The first intimation of what God might do in the future. R5083:1
We find this longing for and hoping for and waiting for the coming King in the writings of all the apostles. R2926:1
For nearly eighteen centuries God was silent, giving no word, no message of hope except the glimmer which came from Enoch's prophecy. SM89:1; R5768:3, 5083:1
The revelation made by Enoch was not a sufficient basis for offering hope to mankind, nor for telling them to repent. (There is no basis upon which to command a man to repent unless something is offered him as a reward for repentance.) R5083:1
With ten thousands – Myriads. R5608:2, 5442:1, 4939:2, 4881:4; SM89:1
If the sufferings were of the whole Body, so is the glory; we suffer with him that we may be also glorified together. When Christ appears in glory we are with him. R579:5
The theory advanced by the "Plymoth Brethren" that Jesus would divide the second advent into two parts, first to gather his saints (unseen by the world), and afterward to with them judge the world in righteousness (visible to human sight), is a misleading theory. R631:5
There is only one second coming. He comes to do a variety of work, and shall not leave it, nor return until he hath accomplished to put down all power and authority. R631:5
Of his saints – Greek, hagios, never translated angel. R263:2, 19:2
The risen saints already here and engaged in the great harvest work. C302
Holy ones. R4881:4; SM89:1
Saint means God-seed (Hebrew, eloh-heem yeh-rag), and in both Hebrew and Greek means the "holy ones," those begotten by the Spirit and born of God; viz. Christ and his Bride. HG23:5
"The Lord, my God, shall come, and all the saints with thee." (Zech. 14:5) C302; R263:2, 19:3
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With ten thousands of his saints – This appears to be quoting from Deu. 33:2 which is a part of the blessing of Moses on the children of Israel at the time of his death. This would seem to confirm that Moses, during his time in the court of Pharaoh, had access other documents that we no longer have. |
| 15 To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. |
To execute judgment upon all – Intimating that one day righteousness would be established in the earth. R5608:2, 3417:3; SM208:4
To establish justice and righteousness in the earth, to bless the people. (Gen. 22:18) R4881:4, 4939:2, 3417:3
It will be a time when punishments and rewards shall be meted out. R5442:2
The great day of judgment, which is to end the Gospel age and inaugurate the Millennium. R5442:1
The nations of earth and all the various elements which form society as at present organized-- political, financial and ecclesiastical, etc.--are now before the bar of judgment, and are being found wanting. R5442:3
Those who are now being dealt with by the Lord will, if faithful, be with the Lord the judges of the world in the next age. (1 Cor. 6:2) R5442:2
Of all their ungodly deeds – The Scriptures tell us that the judgments will be graded according to the light previously had and sinned against. R5442:3
Every evildoer shall then be dealt with and receive punishment for his evil intent, and stripes for his correction. R5442:2
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| 16 These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. |
Great swelling words – Saying, "We must conquer the world! This is the way the Kingdom must be set up!" R5676:6
In admiration – Men-pleasers, because of their self-seeking. F166
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| 17 But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; |
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| 18 How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. |
Walk after their own ungodly lusts – Those who once enjoyed the light of present truth and who have left it seem thereafter more deficient of decency, reasonableness, honesty, than do worldly people. R4540:4
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| 19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. |
Who separate themselves – From the truth and its spirit. R1589:1
Jesus' followers are instructed to commune together in Heb. 10:25: "Not forsaking the assembling of yourselves together." R2243:2, 4830:3
Sensual – Minding earthly things, and gratifying the ambitions and tastes of the old nature. R1589:1
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| 20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, |
Building up – The chief mission of the Church has been her own development. The witnessing to the truth, letting the light shine, reproving the world is a secondary mission. E294
"Edifying one another." (1 Thess. 5:11) "Inciting one another to love and to good works." (Heb. 10:24) F311; R4830:3
The purpose of our meetings. R317:4
The privilege of being laborers in the Church of Christ until we all come to the full stature of a man in the Anointed One. (Eph. 4:13) R4666:2, 4474:6
Preparing one another as members of the Body of the Mediator, the Body of Christ. (Eph. 4:12) R4474:6
Be sympathetic and helpful; not stumbling each other, not confounding one another, but helping one another. (Rom. 14:21) CR335:2
His people should not be unnecessarily burdensome to each other, but each should feel a responsibility in respect to others and gladly lend a helping hand. R4854:4
The foot member must minister to the hand, and the hand to the foot, and all, by a mutual and vital union of spirit with the Head, are to build each other up. R458:2
Provide spiritual nourishment to strengthen those whose new natures or minds may for a time lie dormant. R4830:3
Part of our service we perform to our great Head at the present time is service to his Body. R4435:4
Assisting one another to put on the wedding garment. R2707:6
Our Lord had no such fellowship as the Lord has provided us, but surely would have taken advantage of it if he had. R2243:2
Arranging meetings to attract the worldly, either by music or other features, would frustrate their purpose. F311
There is absolutely no place for worldly workers in conjunction with this great work of God now in progress. R4894:5
Yourselves – Each other. R5098:2, 4253:3
Praying in the Holy Spirit – With a holy spirit; a spirit of loyalty and devotion to God. R1589:1
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| 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. |
Keep yourselves – The sanctified in Christ Jesus. R4660:2
The keeping is with you. God will never force your will. God is not now seeking those who need to be compelled. R5725:5; CR474:3
"Keep thy heart with all diligence." (Prov. 4:23) R1562:3, 4660:2, 4639:6
In watchfulness and prayer and zeal. R4850:4, 1799:4
Love for the Lord, for the truth and for righteousness must inspire us. R1799:4
The Lord is seeking for his Bride such as love him supremely, and he permits Satan to promulgate seductive doctrines to be successful in deceiving all but this special class. R1480:4*
Those who are begotten of the holy Spirit have the responsibility of keeping themselves in that holy condition of heart. R4660:5
Those who have experienced an entrance into God's grace must preserve themselves in this position. R4660:2
Each one, in order to be kept, must be fully consecrated and must abide on the Rock. R1480:4*
Was never a more necessary command to the followers of Jesus than at present. R4253:3
By daily asking for divine wisdom and supervision, seeking to live accordingly, and making reckonings and balancings of the things done and undone. R5958:4, 5440:1
By keeping ourselves clean (1 John 1:9); our daily trespasses are to be acknowledged, and forgiveness sought and obtained. R5440:1
By daily and hourly obedience to and love for the principles of righteousness. R3021:6, 4850:6
Keeping the heart constantly submissive to the Lord's will only. R1563:4, 3021:6
To those who thus obediently abide in God's love, the lights and the shades of life, its storms and its calms, its sorrows and its joys, are all blessings and helps onward and upward. R2239:6
The only safety against Satan's "signs and lying wonders and all deceivableness of unrighteousness." (2 Thess. 2:9, 10) R1889:2
This clearly sets forth that this special love of God can be lost in part, or eventually wholly. If any walks after the flesh and not after the spirit, such will proportionately lose the love of God. R3033:6
Those in the school of Christ who refuse to progress in it toward perfection (in the love of God), may assuredly expect that sooner or later their knowledge of the divine plan will slip from them. R2649:5
To the extent that we shall neglect the divine Counsellor's instructions, we shall surely fail of the blessings. R2239:3
In the love of God – While he causes the pressure of all things to deeply engrave it upon us. R2330:4
The love that is unmerited, sacrificing, wholly different from anything known to fallen humanity. R2648:3
We cannot keep ourselves in this love unless we have gotten into it. R2648:2
We need to be directed into it through the divine Word, and to grow or develop in it. (2 Thess. 3:5) R2648:2
To come into it will be made possible for the natural man through a process of restitution in the Millennial age. R2648:6
God's special love and provision for his saints is distinguished from the world. (1 John 3:1) R1254:5, 2648:2
Those who have passed from the condition of the world into this special love of God, become his children by adoption. R5276:2, 1563:4
The new mind in accord with the love of God is received only by the holy Spirit, which follows the step of consecration to the Lord. R2648:5
By striving to do always those things that are pleasing to God. R4850:5
By seeking to practice in the daily affairs of life the principles of his love. R2649:5
By conquering selfishness, in all its ramifications. R2330:5
The exceeding great and precious promises must be studied, earnestly, that we may have them constitute in us "the power of God" for good, keeping us in the knowledge of the Lord and, through obedience, in his love. R3021:5
Attained by obedience to the call of this age, to present our bodies living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. (Rom. 12:1) R2648:6, 2649:5
Permitting the love of the brethren to so fill our hearts that we may be glad to "lay down our lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2649:5, 4254:1
Permitting a love for mankind in general, and even extending to the brute creation under our care. R2649:2
"This is [proof of our possession of] the love of God, that we keep his commandments," and do not find them grievous. (1 John 5:3) R2648:6
He who finds God's commandments grievous has thus an evidence that he is not in heart-harmony with them, in the "love of God." R2648:6
Selfishness is the surest cause of separation from the love of God; manifested in slackness, carelessness, jealousy, anger, hatred, strife. R4850:5, 2330:4
We may expect that the temptation of this hour will be considerably along that line of abiding in God's love. R4253:3
The Lord's testing of us will be along the line of heart devotion. R4639:6, 1799:4
Also means keeping their hearts in the love with all the dear brethren, the members of Christ, and with all mankind in a sympathetic sense, yea, with their enemies also. NS564:6
In proportion as the old creature triumphs, the new creature will fall; and thus we will gradually cease to be in the love of God. R4850:5, 1563:4
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| 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: |
And of some – Some we may recognize as being merely entrapped of the Adversary, either in sin or in false doctrine. R3035:1
Have compassion – When we see a brother walking contrary to the Lord's instruction, while praying for him, we are to use our best judgment as to how to help him. R1860:3
Our part must always be to be ready at all times to help such back--because we know not the willful rejectors from those merely deceived and ensnared. R883:1
Making a difference – According to natural obligations and spiritual development. R3233:5, 1860:3
According to the circumstances of the case. R1860:3
In so doing we are following the example of our Heavenly Father; for we have just noted that only by walking after the spirit can any of us keep ourselves in the love of God. R3034:3
In proportion as we find the brethren to be copies of our Lord in heart, motive, intention, in loving zeal for righteousness and truth; thus following the Lord's example, who specially loved John because John was specially lovable. The Lord does not wish us to give the same treatment to those who walk disorderly or after the flesh as to those who walk after the spirit. R3034:2
It is as much our duty to withdraw fellowship from those who are unworthy of it as it is our duty to grant fellowship, and that with fervency, to those whom we see to be walking in the footsteps of Jesus. R3034:4
The obligation of distinguishing between brethren that are to be esteemed and those to be warned appertains not merely to conduct but also to doctrinal matters, the fundamental doctrines of Christ. R3034:6
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| 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. |
Pulling them out – Away from the influence and snares of the Adversary. R2770:6
By reminding them of the Rock Christ Jesus, and by throwing them the rope of divine promises. R5948:6
We may be obliged to speak very plainly to them; tear open and expose before their eyes the sores of their immoral course, showing them the grossness of the sin or error in which they are involved. R3035:2
Perhaps in strong language, if we realize that nothing short of this has availed to arouse them from their lethargy. R3035:2, 4327:1
Some should be dealt with energetically. R1860:3
Of the fire – The consuming fire of God's just indignation. A320
The second death. R3035:2
Hating even – Those who hate sin and who take the matter to the Lord in prayer, endeavoring to right any wrong they may have committed. R2962:1
The garment – The imputed garment of Christ's righteousness. R2961:6, 2782:6
Spotted by the flesh – Through receiving of the spirit of the world. R2782:6
Shortcomings of every kind are reckoned as stains or spots; marks of fleshly weakness. R2961:6
Can occur from association with a church that lives in adulterous union with the world. R46:4
This class, failing to keep their robes unspotted, failing to go to the Lord in prayer with every discovery of trespass, get their robes sadly bedraggled through contact with the world. HG358:4
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| 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, |
Unto him – Jesus. R388:4
Keep you from falling – Stumbling. R1458:2
Present you – In the end of the Gospel age. R916:4
At the beginning of the Millennial reign. Q106:2
Our heavenly Lord will introduce us to the Father. CR39:1
Faultless – Actually perfect. R916:4
Then, to be presented before him faultless will signify that the great Judge will approve us, even as he approves all the holy angels. R4513:5
Now, during the sacrificing period, to fall into the hands of our great Judge would mean to fall out of the hands of our Redeemer and Advocate, and to insure condemnation to the second death. R4513:5
Having earnestly cultivated the fruits of the Spirit. R5460:5
As illustrated in the art of the paper-maker in transforming dirty rags into white paper. F193, F194
So long as our hopes, aims and objects of life are centered in heavenly things, we need fear no evil, present or future, for the Lord will be with us, and ultimately present us blameless. R2480:2
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| 25 To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and for ever. Amen. |
God our Saviour – The Almighty Jehovah himself is the Savior, the Author of the great plan of salvation. E33
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