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Expanded Comments | Additional Comments |
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| 1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. |
Faith – True faith seeks for a positive message from the Lord. We should clearly differentiate between credulity and faith. R5188:3, 5243:6; Q774:3
The reasonable and accepted conclusion of a logical argument based upon a reasonable premise or foundation. R2162:2*, 1158:2*
More than hope, faith implies a promise. R4385:5
Proper faith must be based on studies of the Divine Word and promises. R4385:6, 2163:6*
Our faith in all God's promises should be as unwavering as our confidence that tomorrow's sun will rise. R2162:5*, 1158:5*
No grief, no tribulation, can shake our inmost joy if it be well founded upon the faith foundation of divine assurances that we are children of God. R4386:1
Faith in God is that humble confidence which espouses his unpopular cause, which perseveres in pursuing it, in the face of all opposition and without human encouragement, enduring reproach, persecution, etc. R2163:2*
The substance – A basis. R1158:3[R1158:10], 2162:5*
Understanding. Q775:T
Faith is not only a groundwork, or basis, for our hopes, but it is a real substance--a mental substance, which stimulates and clarifies the mind. R5717:6
Belief, in the ordinary sense of the word, is not sufficient as a foundation for our trust and onward progress, unless that belief be congealed, solidified, into a substantial faith. R5188:2
Faith deals with the future--our reward. R74:5*
Faith is the basis out of which the living hope springs and grows naturally. R2162:1*, 74:5*
The very basis of Christian character. R2163:4*
Something substantial upon which hope may build. R2162:1*
Faith becomes a strength to our minds as we progress in the knowledge of God. It becomes as real and tangible as any material substance--even more; for the things upon which our faith lays hold are eternal. R5717:6
Things hoped for – Hope finds a foundation--finds in faith a substance, because faith rests upon a divine promise. R4385:5
Strictly speaking, hope is not substantial, not a reality, and furnishes no genuine foundation. R4385:5
Fear, doubt, and uncertainty, indicates lack of faith and a true foundation on which to base hope. R4385:6
The evidence – Proof, conviction. R5717:6, 2162:5*, 1158:3*; Q775:T
A reasonable conviction becomes a basis of hope for the things which God has promised. R1158:3*
Things not seen – Faith deals with the invisible--our strength for the work of life. R74:5*
Based on the logical deductions from known facts--a most reasonable thing. R2162:3*
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| 2 For by it the elders obtained a good report. |
For by it – Faith. R4386:1
A working faith. The Worthies were justified by faith, when their faith led them to do what God required of them. R50:2*, 1945:3[R1945:6-7]
Their hope was based upon their knowledge of the character of God and his promises to Israel. R1409:3
Here, the Apostle Paul, the antitype of Eleazar, points out the harmony of the Ancient Worthies faith and sufferings (burning) with ours--casting in hyssop, scarlet and cedar. (Num. 19) R1897:4; T110
The elders – The Ancient Worthies. R5859:1, 2375:5
The faithful overcomers of the past. R1529:1, 1469:5
Overcomers of the Jewish Age. R875:5*; OV28:1; NS369:2
A class of God's people not of the Royal Priesthood who suffered for righteousness sake outside the Camp. T106
The noble brethren before the cross, the last one of whom was John the Baptist. R5859:2, 5263:5
Comparatively few exercised faith and wrought righteousness in harmony therewith, up to the time of Christ. R4454:5, 4386:1
From Jacob's death to Christ a few of Israel, exercising faith above and beyond the Law Covenant, were blessed by the underlying Abrahamic Covenant. R4451:5, 4454:5
Millions of Israel who were favored with a call did not make their election sure and were not counted worthy of a place in the list. NS370:2
The Ancient Worthies were justified by faith. They with ourselves come under the Abrahamic Covenant, which had no mediator and needed none, because made only with those of similar faith to father Abraham. R4388:6, 4330:3, 1872:2
Not all the elders or Ancients received a testimony that they pleased God. R4386:1
Good report – They were commended, not for perfect works, but for their faith. R4386:1
Their faith in God and his promises, attested by imperfect works, justified them to that divine fellowship which they will fully enjoy when the things hoped for shall be realized. R4386:2
They will receive a share in the original promise, and be participants in the work of blessing the Gentile world. R2375:5
A testimony that they pleased God. R4386:1
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| 3 Through faith we understand that the ages were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. |
Worlds were framed – In obedience to divine direction. R4386:2[R4386:4]
A matter of faith with us that what we see was miraculously formed, even though gradually. R4386:2[R4386:4]
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| 4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. |
By faith – Ancient Worthies were under Faith Covenant. R4330:3
It was not by custom nor by accident that Abel chose his sacrifice. Evidently, he had been seeking the mind of the Lord, and had found it. R1614:6
It is to those who exercise faith, and who seek and knock, that the mind of the Lord is revealed and that only the great sacrifice of our Redeemer's life is acceptable to God. R1614:6
Abel – The first martyr for righteousness in the world's history. R4386:3
Starting with the more prominent of the race who had been faithful to God according to their light down to the time of Christ. NS520:2
Typifying Isaac, Jacob, spiritual Israel and the wheat class. R2778:2
In some degree a type of Christ. R1614:6
More excellent – Acceptable. R1614:6
God manifested his acceptance of the animal sacrifice of Abel. R5768:5
He was led to offer sacrificially animals which typified the better sacrifices by which reconciliation will eventually be effected between God and humanity. R5188:5
A sacrifice of life, and therefore a true type of the promised redemptive sacrifice. R1614:3
Valuable, because it pointed forward to the sacrifice of Christ. R74:5*
Sacrifice – Abel and Seth and all the godly Ancients sacrificed; and through these typical sacrifices they approached God. R1945:3
Than Cain – Typifying Ishmael, Esau, fleshly Israel and the tare class. R2778:2
Obtained witness – Approval by God's acceptance of his offering. R5188:3
He was righteous – Abel is mentioned four times in the New Testament, and three of the times particularly styled "the righteous." R4386:3
Yet speaketh – Figuratively--actions speak louder than words. R5044:4
The fact that he died because of his devotion to the Lord, speaks of his devotion to God and to principle. R4386:3
God's acceptance still speaks to us in Abel's favor, although he is dead. R5188:3
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| 5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God. |
Enoch – He not only prophesied (Jude 14, 15), but believed it and it stamped his entire character and made him separate from the world and drew him nearer to the Lord. R4386:5
We might speculate that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, would represent man in his future state when he will be perfect, and will not die. Q262:T
Was translated – Taken away--lifted over from one state or place to another. Q261:3
The Bible does not explain what this term means. Q262:2
Enoch did not die. Enoch remained under the death sentence until he was ransomed by our Lord's death. R2153:2, 3378:1, 619:6
There is no record as to where he was taken; except that he was not taken to heaven. R5188:5, 619:6; Q261:3
No offer of heavenly life was possible until after Jesus died as man's Redeemer. R5772:2
How, or where, God took him, or for what purpose, is not revealed. R619:6; Q261:3
God may have protected his life through all these centuries as an illustration of how human life could have been prolonged by divine power, if God had not placed the curse of death upon the race. R5188:6
In some way his life was preserved. Q773:2
"He walked with God, and God took him." (Gen. 5:24) R5188:5, 4386:4, 619:6
Enoch did not go to heaven. "No man hath ascended up to heaven." (John 3:13) R3378:4, 5188:5, 3417:4, 2153:3, 619:6, 838:5
Not see – Not experience. Q261:3
This testimony – There will be no necessity for testing the Ancient Worthies in the future. Their acceptance with God is already proved and declared. They will come forth as perfect human beings. R5030:5
That he pleased God – Was justified to fellowship, not life. F125; R4640:1
When the Ancient Worthies ascertained God's will, they set about doing it. R5074:2; NS678:5; Q12:4
They came up to the standard--perfection of heart-intention, and obedience to the extent of ability. R5073:2, 5317:4, 5149:4; Q405:5
Although they did not by obedience to the Law Covenant secure the blessings which it proposed. R4451:5
Having loved and served him in righteousness and truth. R1273:1; 1781:4[R1781:17]
For which they will be restored to human perfection. R5293:6, 5073:6
This assures us that they had considerable character development. R4612:2
Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Daniel, and the prophets were grand characters. Yet their was no Pentecostal outpouring in their day. NS802:3
Nehemiah and others of his time who displayed faithfulness and loyalty are not personally mentioned by St. Paul, but they are undoubtedly included in the list of them that pleased God. R4912:5
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Enoch .. translated .. not see death – The fact that Enoch was under the death sentence from Adam and "all in Adam die" (1 Cor. 15:22), coupled with Paul's words in verse 13 that "these all died" would seem to seal the thought that Enoch actually died. So what then is meant by this phrase here?
The word translated (Strong's 3346) is used elsewhere to describe things being moved over some distance (Jacob's body 'carried' to his sepulcher - Acts 7:16) or some of the Galatians being 'removed' from the faith (Gal. 1:6) or the priesthood "being changed" (Heb. 7:12). In Enoch's case his condition was changed from being a fallen human being in the full vigor of his life (as compared to others of the fallen race) to the death state where he awaits the resurrection and his reward as one of the Ancient Worthies. As a result of this 'change' he did not experience much of the degenerative effects of the aging process, i.e., he did not see (experience that type of) death. |
| 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. |
But without faith – Without understanding and accepting God's promises. F315
God will not receive any one who does not exercise faith. R5717:4
No works can be acceptable to God unless inspired by faith. R5859:1; NS343:3
The stronger our faith, the more our works are sure to be under the divine arrangement. R3338:5, 4377:2, 3762:5
All of our services to the Lord are valuable chiefly as proofs of our faith in his promises. R2425:4
No essential element of Christian character is given greater prominence in the Scriptures than faith. R1938:3, 5128:6
Faith is the basis and only condition upon which any other of God's favors are now obtainable. R4003:2
It is impossible for us to come near to the Lord except as we shall exercise faith and trust in him, in his goodness, power, wisdom and love. R3338:5, 2907:3, 2162:5*, 1158:3*
Faith is a real substance--a mental substance, so to speak, which stimulates and clarifies the mind. R5717:6
The acceptance of a thing because we have indisputable evidence of its reality, its truthfulness and its reliability. R5717:5
To be developed, faith must be tried with opposition. R5148:2
Lack of faith is a constant hindrance to overcoming. R5425:4, 2642:6
At the present time, God is dealing only with those who have faith towards him. CR321:2; R5189:1, 5148:4, 5128:6; OV309:T
God demands that we shall exercise faith in him corresponding to his mercies and manifold favors to us. R2334:2
Both the head and the heart--the intellect and the affections--are necessary to this faith. R1822:3
God is now seeking only those who can exercise the necessary faith when the message of God is brought to them. R5717:6
Our faith will be in proportion to our knowledge of the character of God. R5116:2; NS449:3
The effort of every Christian should be toward a continual growth in faith. R2163:4*
Faith is fundamental and the graces (2 Pet. 1:5-7) are as the house of wisdom built upon it. R136:6*, 74:2*
"This is the victory that overcometh the world, even your faith." (1 John 5:4) F147, F315, F658; R2654:1, 2642:6, 2425:4; NS228:1
The sixth sense--confidence in the Lord. R5189:1, 5243:6
It is our privilege to pray to the Lord to increase our faith, and to ourselves increase it by learning the divine promises and applying them as our own. R2642:6, 3338:5
Faith might exist alone for a time, for not by works are we justified, but by faith only. R216:1
Faith in Christ is a part of the faith necessary. R555:6*; NS643:6
If one lose his faith, there is no telling whither he may wander. R5116:2
When man shall have attained the full likeness of God, he will not need any special development of faith; for faith will be inherent in him. R5716:5
The Apostle Paul points the Gospel Church to the noble, self-sacrificing faithfulness of the Ancient Worthies who endured so much for their faithfulness to the Lord and his truth. R1372:2
Not credulity, which is the acceptance of a thing without good reason, without sure evidence. R5717:5, 5243:6, 5188:3
It is impossible – No man ever was, or ever can be saved, either by the law of nature--conscience--or by the written Law. R556:1*
Neither innocence nor ignorance, nor any other natural condition, will save. R1043:6*, 556:4*
"Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God." (Rom. 10:17) R555:5*; HG421:4
Faith, and endeavor to obedience in harmony with that faith, are necessary to salvation. HG421:3
To please him – Paul is laying down a general principle as to what is the divine pleasure. R5716:2
A person is pleasing God in proportion as he has faith, and displeasing in proportion as he lacks faith. R5188:6, 4387:2
Only those who please God, who have his approval, will have eternal life. R4133:3
The more our faith is developed, the more pleasing in the Father's sight we shall be. R5148:2
Those being selected for exaltation to the divine nature must expect to have their faith tested; this testing is most important from the divine viewpoint. R5116:2
God cannot recognize as children those who do not love him, and they cannot love him without faith. R556:1*
Or to "have peace (rest) with God." (Rom. 5:1) R391:3*
They that are in the flesh, depraved, cannot please God. R556:4*
The more we may be used as channels of blessing to others. R4387:2
He – This class, having a heart-hunger for their Creator--a longing for him that nothing else can satisfy. R5717:4
That cometh to God – Now. R5717:4
In prayer. F680
Acceptably. R2834:3
Not literally. "Let us draw near, with a true heart." (Heb. 10:22) R167:4*
Those who have naturally some faith and who have gained a sufficient knowledge of himself and his character to believe in his love and to be desirous of coming into fellowship and communion with him. R5717:6
Must believe – The Father would have our faith in him implicit, unwavering. R5148:2
No other prayers are accepted. F680
The obedience of the Ancients was the best possible evidence that they did believe, and their faith was approved. R74:5
That he is – Must recognize him as the selfexisting one. F680
That he is a personal God. CR489:5; 481:4
That there is a God who made us. R5717:4
And must "set to his seal that God is true." (John 3:33) E230
Mankind have become so alienated from God by wicked works and self-will that many do not know that there is a God. R5717:1
A rewarder of them – A faith in the justice of God, that, inviting us, he will not spurn us, when we respond to his call. NS620:4
Diligently seek him – With a heart-hunger for their Creator--a longing for him that nothing else can satisfy. R5717:4
To know him, to obey him, to serve him. F680; R2569:6
To walk in his ways. R4072:5
He will reveal his true character to them. OV2:2
It is not sufficient to know that there is a God, nor to realize that he is a living Being. We first believed; then we sought to know his will concerning us. CR489:5
In an important sense it is the Christian's life-work to come to God, and success is to the diligent seeker. R74:2*
Faith works--work secures reward. God did not say to the Ancients, "believe" but he gave them something to do. R74:5*
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| 7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. |
By faith Noah – For a long period Noah's faith was tested even unto the entering of the Ark and the closing of the door before the rains descended and the floods came. R4386:6
Things not seen as yet – Building an ark at a time when there was no apparent excuse for such a building, since not a drop of rain had fallen from the time of man's creation until that time. (Gen. 2:5) R5188:6, 4386:5
Prepared an ark – Type of Christ and the power in him which will replenish and reorganize society. A318
If God commands the building of an ark, the reasonable course is to build and to warn men, though the flood tarry for 120 years. R1158:5*, 2162:6*
Saving of his house – God blessed his faith, and made him a channel of blessing to his family. R5188:6
Condemned – Greek: katakrino, sentenced to overthrow. R999:2
Judged. R518:6*
Became heir – Because he genuinely trusted and obeyed God. R4386:6
Righteousness – None was righteous in the absolute sense. "There is none righteous, no, not one." (Rom. 3:10) R4386:5
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| 8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. |
Abraham – Typified the Heavenly Father. R4387:1
Styled the "father of the faithful" because with Abraham God started a faith family to whom were given many and great promises. R4386:6
When he was called – Abraham's call of God was the result of his having faith in God and because he lived at an appropriate time for the divine purposes to begin to be expressed. R4387:1
Should after receive – Not receive at the time. R1634:3
An inheritance – There is no suggestion of Abraham becoming a partaker of the divine nature and a joint-heir with Jesus. R5291:2
Obeyed – He responded to the call and came into Canaan. R5189:4
Abraham was justified by his works and not by faith only. R30:1*
And he went out – The first test upon Abraham, after he was called, was that he leave his native country to wander up and down through Palestine as a shepherd. R4387:1
Probably in the face of the great displeasure of his relatives. R2846:6
Not knowing whither – Not knowing the particulars respecting it beforehand. R5189:1
In this respect typifying the experience of the true Church in coming out of Babylon. R2847:1
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| 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: |
He sojourned – Moved about, not settling down as an owner. R1634:3
"Now the sojourning of the children of Israel was 430 years." (Exod. 12:40) B47
Land of promise – In after times God would bring Abraham's posterity to this land and give it to them for a possession, and if obedient, Abraham's seed would become great and influential and bless all nations. R4387:1
A strange country – As a stranger. R5189:1
In tabernacles – In tents. R5189:2
Temporary, movable dwellings. R1634:3
With – As did also. R5189:2
The heirs – His associates in the promises and heirs through him. R5189:2
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| 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. |
Looked for a city – Not a literal city. The entire passage is symbolical. R5189:4
In olden times a city stood for and represented a fortification, a government, a rule of authority. R4387:3
The glorious Kingdom of God in both its earthly and heavenly phase. R1617:4, 5189:5, 4387:4
The antitypical Temple. R2520:6
The New Jerusalem, the glorified Church, the Kingdom class. E90; R5189:4
A government is symbolically represented by a city. R5189:5
An established kingdom. R1634:3
The Kingdom of God. R1630:1
He did not expect to come upon a newly built city of divine construction, or a New Jerusalem built of literal precious stones and pearls. R4387:3
"He rejoiced to see my day." (John 8:56) The Millennial Day. E89, E90
Hath foundations – Twelve, the apostles. R4387:5, 30:2*
Permanence, based on principles of righteousness. R3936:6, 1634:3
Maker is God – Men could build an earthly city, but not the heavenly. R56:6*
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| 11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. |
Also Sara – The distinction of sex does not operate to the disadvantage of either male or female in connection with the divine promises. R4387:5
Received strength – She was assisted through the faith she exercised. R5189:2
By the exercise of divine power, for Sarah not only barren, but aged. R1140:5
Judged him faithful – Although past the age of motherhood, Sara believed God. R4387:5
Trusting God's faithfulness. R5380:3
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| 12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. |
As good as dead – At the age of one hundred, Abraham received Isaac as one born from the dead. R751:6*
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| 13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. |
These all – Referring to those mentioned in the 12th verse and not those in the preceding verses. Q773:2
Including Sara, and John the Baptist. R4387:5, 5069:4
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the faithful of past time. SM44:3; R607:1
Evidently, the Apostle previously (verse 5) made an exception of Enoch and therefore not included with these. Q261:3
Died in faith – They met conditions of heart loyalty, and were found faithful. R5836:3
They knew they had not received eternal life, or any of the things which God had promised, but they died in faith that they would get it in the resurrection. R4961:6
That what God had promised he was able also to perform, in his own good time and way. R2035:2
Serving the Lord with their all could not justify them legally. R5528:2
Abraham never relaxed his faith, even to his dying day. R1617:1
Presumably, Elijah died and was buried like other men. Q259:4
Not having received – Without. A293
The things promised--the land wherein they dwelt, etc. R220:2, 5859:3, 5291:2, 4387:5
The promises – Earthly promises. R5859:2
The blessing--reconciliation to God and eternal life. SM44:3
The things promised them. R5772:3, 5291:2, 5189:2, 4388:4, 4387:5
The fulfillment of the promises. R5528:2, 4961:6
That the "seed" shall some day come. R5116:6
The blessing of eternal life. R5073:6
Hope of a place in the natural seed to bless all mankind. They had no knowledge of the spiritual seed. R5836:3
God did not promise heavenly things prior to Jesus' day. R5859:2
The Ancient Worthies were not rewarded at death. HG334:4
Seen them afar off – Beyond the present life. R1634:3, 4071:3
With the eye of faith. R4387:5
The promises will be literally fulfilled to Abram in the incoming Millennial Age. R607:1
Were persuaded – Their rejoicing was in the faith-view which they had from afar. R5189:2
Strangers and pilgrims – Nomads. R5189:2
They separated themselves from the rest of the world, having obtained new aims, new ideas, were out of touch with the remainder of the race because of having a different standard. R5116:6
Abraham was a sojourner and not an owner to the day of his death. R2849:4
They were obliged to wait for the heavenly country, for two reasons: (1) To test their faith, (2) "The wickedness of the Amorites was not yet come to the full." (Gen. 15:16) R2230:6
We must be willing also to stand this test at the present time. R4387:6
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These all died – "As all in Adam die" 1 Cor. 15:22. This includes Enoch who "was translated that he should not see death." vs. 5 |
| 14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
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Seek a country – Their travelling up and down showed that none of the cities or countries through which they passed were wholly satisfactory to them. R5189:2
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| 15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. |
If they had – Abraham's continuance in Canaan marked the continuance of his faith. R2121:1
Been mindful – Wishful. R2230:6, 220:2
They were not discontented in the sense that they wished to return to their former homeland, Haran. R5189:2
Of that country – Chaldea. R220:2
Charran. R2230:6
To have returned – When they found that God was not yet ready to fulfil his promises. R2230:6
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| 16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. |
But now – As it is. R1096:3*
Instead of returning. R220:2
A better country – A home under more righteous conditions. R2231:2, 4387:6
The Paradise of the now near future. R5189:4
The promised country. R220:2
They were waiting for the time that God intended they should inherit this promise--the land of Palestine--at the establishment of God's Kingdom. R3945:3, 220:2
The Ancient Worthies, unsatisfied with any of the earthly prospects, sought the heavenly. R4387:6
Not heirs in the highest sense, this opportunity was not open in their time. R5528:2
That is an heavenly – One with heavenly laws. R2230:6
One from heaven. R1096:3*
Canaan in the heavenly Kingdom. R220:4
Not in the sense that the Church is seeking the heavenly, the spiritual things. R4387:6
They had no heavenly promises. All of their promises were of the earth, earthy. R5189:4
In going out to the unknown land, and in the offering of his son Isaac, Abraham grasped the future, seeing Christ and the heavenly country. R74:5*
In the sense expressed in our Lord's prayer. R4387:6
It is evident that Abraham saw beyond the glory of the earthly. R30:2*
Our citizenship is of the heavenly Kingdom, therefore we should be diligent to learn its language. R1062:6*
For them a city – Government. R4387:6
Not a literal city, but the Kingdom of God. R2231:1, 4387:6, 220:4
The Millennial Kingdom, whose earthly seat of government will probably be Canaan. R220:4
God has planned such a heavenly Kingdom or dominion as they hoped for. R4387:6
It is under this perfect city or government from God, through Christ, that they shall find a country (home) which could never have come under the imperfect city (government) of bondage. R1389:4
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| 17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son. |
By faith – A childlike faith. Abraham trusted God's love and believed his wisdom superior to his own, and accepted his authority as paramount to every other consideration. R1623:6
The kind of faith that the Lord desires to find in the spiritual seed of Abraham--a faith that will trust him even where it cannot trace him. R2907:6
Abraham had not this degree of faith when first he entered Canaan. It was lack of this perfect trust in God which made him fearful to acknowledge Sarah to be his wife. R2908:1
Abraham – A type of God. (Rom. 4:17, margin) R2908:3, 1623:6
As Abraham was willing to offer his only son, so Jehovah gave his only begotten Son, in whom centered the promises. R2908:3
The names of some of the most notable only, who were accepted as making their election sure to the future honor and service, are given. R1457:3
When he was tried – The test for Abraham was that he should offer in sacrifice his son Isaac, in whom centered all the promises. R5702:1
Even when Abraham's tests were passed satisfactorily, he could not be actually justified; because he needed to be redeemed with the blood of Christ. R4574:2
The instruction to offer Isaac was not given by a mere impression of the mind. It would not have been proper for Abraham to accept and act upon anything short of an absolute demonstration of the divine will. R4387:2
Offered up Isaac – The severest possible test of faith was the command to slay his son with his own hand and to offer him upon the altar of sacrifice. R1623:6
By his prompt obedience Abraham gave proof of his loyalty. R5702:1
Typifying the sacrifice of Christ. A155; R4387:1, 2908:3, 2510:6, 1623:6
As Abraham gave his son Isaac to be sacrificed --so the Heavenly Father gave his Son, Jesus, to be the sin-offering for Adam and his race. PD27/38
As a representative of Isaac, a ram was offered, so, throughout the Jewish age, the natural children of Abraham were required to sacrifice bulls and goats, as yearly sin-offerings. R2908:4
Isaac was 25 years old. R2907:3
In Abraham's day the patriarchal form of government prevailed, and under it the father of a family held an autocratic power which seemingly was rarely questioned by the children. R2907:3
Tests of a similar import, though of different kind, are laid upon the Lord's people today, for the testing of our heart-loyalty toward the Lord. R2907:3, 2908:6, 1624:4
The place selected for the Temple altar is believed to be the spot upon which Abraham offered Isaac. R2510:6, 2908:2
By works his faith was made perfect. (James 2:22) R50:2*, 30:1*
Received the promises – This was the son of promise, for whose birth Abraham had waited--a miracle of divine power--the son in whom were centered all the gracious promises which had filled Abraham's heart for now 50 years. R2907:3
Offered up – Because he accounted that God was able to raise his son from the dead and that surely God would fulfil his every promise to which he had bound himself. R4387:2
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| 18 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: |
It was said – Abraham philosophized upon this matter--respecting the fact that Isaac was his legitimate heir, and had been so acknowledged of the Lord. R2907:6
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| 19 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. |
Accounting that God – When God commanded Abraham to sacrifice his son, it was reasonable for Abraham to comply, and to leave the fulfillment of the promises, which centered in his son, to God. R1158:5*, 2162:6*
Raise him up – Abraham's faith was sufficient. R3955:6
A picture of our Lord's resurrection. R4603:2
Even from the dead – That the promises might be fulfilled. R5702:1, 2907:6
In a figure – There is a pictorial illustration connected with the matter, but it is not so sharp as in a type. Q722:5; R5966:3
Prefiguring Jehovah's offering of his only begotten Son and receiving him again from the dead. R1394:4
Abraham's son, in whom the promised blessing centered, had first to be a sacrifice before he could bless, and Abraham received him from the dead in a figure. In the figure Isaac typified the true seed, Christ Jesus. A155
Even though the knife did not strike the fatal blow, the offering was complete in the sight of heaven. R5180:3
Showing that the Oathbound Covenant could not go into effect without the shedding of blood--Isaac died typically. R3917:1
Thus Isaac was brought forth the second time. R1436:3*
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| 20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. |
Isaac blessed Jacob – With full confidence conveyed the Abrahamic blessing to his son Jacob. R4388:1
It was necessary for typical Isaac to be typically sacrificed and typically raised from the dead before he could bless. A155
And Esau – Realizing that under the Abrahamic promise all the families of the earth to be blessed must include the family of Esau also. R4388:1
Things to come – See Genesis 28:3,4. R1624:2
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| 21 By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. |
By faith Jacob – Israel was impulsed by faith in the promise made to Abraham that God would use his posterity and through it bless all people. R5244:4
A dying – On his death-bed. R4388:1
The sons of Joseph – Jacob recognized that the blessings that were to come to his family were all under divine supervision and all included in the original promise made to Abraham. R4388:1
His staff – The headpost of his bed. R4388:1
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| 22 By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones. |
Concerning his bones – Signified that Joseph would thus testify his faith in a resurrection of the dead. R4388:2, 1646:5
This does not necessarily imply that he thought the bones and the dust that had once constituted his entity would be necessary to God in his resurrection. R4388:2
Fleshly Israel mistakenly thought the preservation of the body necessary to a resurrection. R2601:6
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| 23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment. |
By faith – While working out his grand designs on a large scale, God is not unmindful of the faith and devotion of humble individuals who put their trust in him. R1651:2
Of his parents – Who had doubtless previously prayed that his life might be spared. R2902:6
The parents of Moses are well spoken of in the Old Testament, while in the New Testament we are distinctly told that they were people of faith, and counted in the noble list of Ancient Worthies. R5251:3, 2902:4
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| 24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; |
Moses – Represented the faithful overcomers who preceded our Lord. R2289:1; B20; F677
Refused to be called – Renounced the privileges of the throne of Egypt, to which he was by adoption the heir; a testimony of his faith in God. R4388:2, 5116:6
He relinquished all these earthly advantages. R5418:3
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| 25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; |
Choosing rather – Perhaps his first test--would his faith be equal to the task of casting in his lot with the enslaved and oppressed people, and thus losing caste with Pharaoh and the Egyptians of influence. R5252:1
How noble was Moses course, and how much approved of the Lord! It is proper that all who know and love righteousness and justice should take a firm stand upon these principles. R2909:1
Suffer affliction – In associating with them he was showing his esteem for the reproaches of the Anointed. R4388:2
Suffered on account of his faith in the promise. R5117:1
The people of God – He preferred to share with God's chosen people, Israel, in their affliction. R5418:3
The people of the Abrahamic promise. R4388:2
The despised people. R2909:2
Pleasures of sin – And injustice. R2909:1
The pleasures of an Egyptian court. R1651:2, 74:6*
Riches and honors might have been his as an adopted member of the royal family--he might even have become the reigning Pharaoh. R5252:2
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| 26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward. |
Reproach of Christ – The Egyptians had learned that the Israelites believed themselves to be the heirs of the promises--that through this nation should come the great Messiah. R2909:2[R2909]
Treasures in Egypt – Participation in the honors of the Egyptian government. R5116:6
To dwell in luxury with the others. R4388:2
Riches which were accruing to the Egyptians through the oppression and bondage of the Israelites. R2909:1
He had respect – He hoped by allying himself with his own people to preserve his share in the Abrahamic promises. R2909:2
Of the reward – The promise made to Israel's fathers. R5418:3
In order to have the proper respect for the reward which God promises, it is necessary that we hold it up before us continually. R5082:2
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| 27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. |
He endured – The endurance of trials and testings is only possible to those who have the eye of faith. R4388:2
Who is invisible – To natural eyes. R5951:3
The invisible King of glory and his, as yet, invisible Kingdom. R4388:2
The unseen world is the source of wisdom, strength and comfort to the pilgrims, as disciples, as soldiers, and as afflicted men. R74:6*
The poor world who know not this invisible Friend above all others, are to be greatly pitied. R4784:5
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| 28 Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them. |
Kept the passover – That being the type--certainly it is important that we keep the antitype. R212:4*
We have no reason to suppose that to any considerable extent it was possible for him to comprehend the real meaning of the Passover. R4388:2
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| 29 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. |
Through the Red sea – Typifying the ultimate deliverance of the world. CR471:3
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| 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days. |
By faith – Faith is an essential; but we must have crossed Jordan, have been justified and sanctified--before we could exercise such faith as would result in victory over our Jericho. R3088:4
Not until we understand and have faith in the Word of the Lord, are we able to blend the shout of victory with the sound of the trumpets and see the obstacles to self-mortification fall before us. R1858:4, 4071:4
Walls of Jericho – It was a miracle, however it was to be accounted for. R3087:5
Possibly an earthquake may have been caused at that particular spot so as to affect the walls, or possibly it was caused by the dynamic force in certain chords of sound. R3087:5
It required faith on the part of Joshua to issue such instructions; and on the part of the priests and armed men to carry them out, and on the part of all the people to expect that the walls would fall down flat. R3087:3
Seven days – Before the wall fell, the faith of the circumcised ones was made active as shown in the seven days marching around the city, and seven times on the seventh day, representing completeness. R4070:3, 1857:3
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| 31 By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. |
The harlot Rahab – Typifying the Great Company class. R4054:2
God has been choosing the sincere, the honest, the faithful, notwithstanding lowliness of birth, natural blemishes and imperfections. R4388:3
There is nothing in the Scriptures that militates against women. R4749:3
Received the spies – Rahab's faith amounted to the hiding of the spies, etc. R330:1
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| 32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gideon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthah; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: |
Time would fail me – After giving us a wonderful galaxy, the Apostle seems to realize that he has only well begun the list. R4388:4
A partial roll-call of the heroes of faith-battles in ancient times. R5188:2
To tell of – Their experiences were far from enviable: they were generally reviled, many of them being imprisoned and put to violent deaths. A54; HG536:6
Samson – Rated as a faithful servant of God, according to the Law. His faithfulness consisted in his loyalty to the divine requirements, to the cause of God and to Israel. His whole life was used in serving his people. R5613:2
He possessed meekness, gentleness, patience, etc. in some measure, no doubt. R4087:3, 4612:2
In a hundred ways Samson was neither a Christian nor an example to Christians. R5613:2, 4087:3
David – Whose soul is still in sheol, in hell. E377
Samuel – A prophet of the Lord. NS700:1
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| 33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, |
Who – And others who were not so honored and prominent, but who had the honor of having pleased God. R5528:2
Others not so notable. R5774:3, 4038:1
A hasty word-picture of the nature of their triumphs. R5188:2
We are not called upon to endure greater trials than those worthies of the past. R28:3*
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| 34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. |
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| 35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: |
Women – The Scriptures do not discriminate against women. In this Gospel Age, they have the opportunity of being joint-heirs with Christ. R4749:3
Received their dead – Not actually, but by faith. F704, F705
Raised to life again – Greek, anastasis. Certain women, although not sharers in the battles, were sharers in the losses, and in the faith, permitting them to look into the future and to trust God for a resurrection of their dead ones. This view finds support in verse 39. R1512:4, 93:1; F704
Generally understood to refer to the re-awakening of two children by Elijah and Elisha; but if so, we believe that the holy Spirit would have guided the Apostle to the use of the Greek word egeiro. R1512:4; F704
By resurrection. (Revised Version) F705
To natural life. R93:1
Not accepting – On ignoble terms which would necessitate disloyalty to God. R1409:3
Some valiantly overcame obstacles and would not compromise their conscience to procure deliverance. R1179:6
Deliverance – Greek, apolutrosis, the one place where this word, usually mistranslated "redemption," is properly rendered. E438
They – The Ancient Worthies. R5167:1
Justified to fellowship with God. F119
Might obtain – Desired. R5073:6
Better resurrection – Greek, anastasis. R1512:4, 93:1
More favorable. R1179:6
An awakening from death to instantaneous human perfection. D619; F699; R5474:5, 5167:1, 4555:2, 1972:5, 1872:5, 1179:6; Q12:4, 13:3
Resurrection to human perfection, actual justification, actual righteousness. R4574:1, 4598:5
Having been approved of the Lord in the past they will be granted restitution instantly. R4574:5; NS520:4
The reward for their faithfulness unto death. F119; R5293:5, 4612:2, 1409:3
Better than that given to the remainder of mankind. R5073:6, 5761:4, 5528:2, 5167:1, 4640:2, 4574:2,5, 1872:5
The remainder of the race will require a thousand years during which to come back gradually to the original condition lost by Adam. R5167:1, 1872:5; D619; NS520:5
A more favorable condition. R2796:4, 2677:1
Than would have been theirs if they had not pleased God. R5108:3
They will come forth perfect men; as Adam was before his sin, and with hearts and wills developed, exercised, tested, proved loyal to God. R5317:4, 5074:1, 4598:5; Q406:T; NS236:6, 520:4, 784:3
The Ancient Worthies will constitute the firstfruits on the earthly plane. R4574:5
Life resurrection--because of their faith in the original (Sarah) Covenant. R4320:2
Under the New Covenant arrangements and under the Mediator of that New Covenant. R4555:2
We believe that they will have need of further experience. R4612:2
They will not have the decision of the divine court, respecting their worthiness for eternal life, until the conclusion of the trial at the end of the Millennial Age. R5074:6, 4598:6; Q13:1
They will not have full access to the Heavenly Father until the close of the Millennial Age. R4612:5,4; Q12:4, 13:T
Not in the sense of belonging to the spirit plane. R5167:1
There is no direct promise of God in the Law or the Prophets of a special reward. R1409:3
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| 36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: |
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| 37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; |
They – The Ancient Worthies, because of their loyalty to God and the principles of righteousness. R5291:2
In hope of a better resurrection. R2109:4
Such in some sort or measure is the lot of the elect Church of Christ. R624:1*
It is possible to endure figurative scorching or stoning, and to have our names cast out as evil, etc., but there is no advantage that the Church can claim over the Ancient Worthies. R4653:4
The last days of many were tragic and they filled the martyr's grave. R1646:2
Were sawn asunder – Isaiah is said to have been sawn asunder. R2371:6
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| 38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. |
Of whom – All the patriarchs desired to be in harmony with God. R5117:1; T107
They were a noble example of those who laid down their lives for the truth. R705:5; OV11:4
Their lives were consecrated to God and to righteousness. Q157:1; R5168:2
Their period of disciplinary favor developed noble characters. R1201:6
Not worthy – By their sufferings, painful and ignominious deaths, they demonstrated that the world was unworthy of them. R5168:2
Who will yet occupy honorable positions as chiefs among men. R1202:1, 1533:4, 1457:3; NS236:6
The transgressions against these, in proportion as they were committed with a degree of light, were to be settled for by the transgressors. R5463:4
In dens and caves – In olden times there were bitter persecutions of God's people, and those persecuted were obliged to live in caves and dens of the earth. R5463:4
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| 39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: |
And these all – The Red Heifer class, the Ancient Worthies. T106, T110; R5774:3, 4389:1, 1897:1, 1872:1, 220:4; SM732:2; CR157:2
As a class, these were represented as members of the tribe of Levi. The household of faith, as typified in Levi, was represented in times past as well as now. R4389:2
The natural seed of Abraham. E403; HG439:5
The faithful overcomers of the past. R1529:1, 1469:5, 1316:1, 1007:4, 354:2; F699
Including Enoch and Elijah. R3378:1
John the Baptist being the last and most highly honored. R2035:1, 4595:4, 3794:3, 1872:3; F112; HG646:4; NS369:5
To the faithful of the Jewish church, the Jewish age was a period of purgation. R1316:4
A different class from the disciples of Christ of the Gospel Age. R4388:4, 1262:3
To be the earthly representatives of the heavenly Mediator. R4389:1; HG439:5; NS748:3
Many "counted not their lives dear unto them" in their faithfulness to the Lord. E96; OV11:4
But few. R1529:2
A good report – A good record. R1007:4, 329:6
Witness. R3378:4, 2153:3
A verdict of "well done;" a testimony that they pleased God. T110; R4330:3; NS520:2
They passed their trial in this life satisfactorily in God's sight; and they will contrast strongly with the imperfect men around them. R1529:2, 1179:6
Samson's faith in God and desire to do his will are continually manifested throughout his life. R5613:4
Through faith – Therefore justified, made free from the Law Covenant, as illustrated by the fact that the Red Heifer was one that had never worn a yoke. T110; R1872:2
Received not – Not yet. R1262:3
The promise – The blessings promised. CR11:2; R2288:6, 1512:4, 1007:4; F677; NS82:2, 399:5
The fulfillment of the promise. A293; R4543:1
Made to them. R1007:4
The things promised to them--earthly inheritance, dominion. CR157:2; OV45:4; R5859:2, 5030:5, 4675:2, 2342:1, 330:1
The reward of their faithfulness. R1562:1; F705
"He gave him none inheritance in it, no not so much as to set his foot on, yet he promised that he would give it to him." (Acts 7:5) R1562:1, 4071:3, 3084:3, 1617:2; A293
The chief blessing. T108
The chief or "high calling." R220:4
From Genesis to Malachi there is no suggestion of a heavenly or spiritual hope for anyone. R4675:2
They cannot be of the Church class even as they could not follow in the footsteps of Jesus--theirs is to be an earthly blessing. R5772:3
Everlasting life. R2153:3, 3378:1, 1897:4, 1509:6
They are all sleeping and waiting for the resurrection morning. R2109:4
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| 40 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. |
Provided – Reserved. R4543:1, 2035:3
Foreseen. R1872:4
Prepared. R1096:3*
Some better thing – Higher honors; the heavenly calling, to which the Ancient Worthies were not invited. B246; D625; R4543:2, 2070:3; NS520:6; Q751:T
Our higher reward of "glory, honor and immortality." R4966:3, 4675:2; CR117:1
The attainment of the spirit nature, far above angels, sharers with our Redeemer in his glory and immortality. R5344:4; NS520:6
Joint-heirship with Christ and the work of blessing all God's intelligent creation. R2035:3, 193:5; F677
The saints being first in order, as well as in honor. C94
As much better as the heavenly inheritance is better than the earthly one. R4388:5; SM247:2
A superior portion. R1512:4
A still better resurrection. R1179:6
Perfection on a higher plane. R637:4
Divine favor bestowed upon the spiritual seed selected from both Jews and Gentiles. R4543:2
The opportunity to become part of the "Root." E140
Priority of time, as well as of honor and position. R3378:1, 2153:3
This manifestation of divine grace toward us is not on account of our greater faith, but because we live in the "acceptable time." (Isa. 49:8) R4640:2
"He that is least in the Kingdom is greater." (Matt. 11:11) F86, F112; T108; NS369:5, 802:4
Theirs was good and grand, but the Bride's portion is better. R252:4, 1386:2; NS520:2
For us – Than for them. R2677:1
The New Creation, Christ, Head and Body. A293; F112; R5859:4, 5300:5, 4554:5
The Church. R5344:4; 646:4
The Christian Church. A93; OV223:2; HG342:3
The Gospel Church, the Body of Christ, the Bride class. R4595:4, 3378:2, 2153:3, 1512:4, 1262:3; F112, F676; HG731:6*; NS444:2, 520:6, 663:1
The Messianic Body. R2375:5
The very elect of the Gospel age. NS369:5, 642:1
Christian heroes, followers in the footsteps of Jesus. R5859:4
The spiritual seed of Abraham. E403; NS520:4
To the faithful of the Gospel Church, the Gospel age has been a period of purgation. R1316:4
Than the world in general. R637:4
That they – The humble, faithful, Ancient Worthies. F112; E144; R5859:4, 4388:5, 3378:1, 2153:3
Those noble, loyal, righteous, faithful. R2035:3, 5444:6
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the holy prophets. C265; R5444:6, 4595:4, 2983:1, 2438:2, 2122:6, 2109:4; D619, D625; OV45:4, 56:4; Q750:4; SM710:T, 732:2
The Ancient Worthies of the Jewish Dispensation. R1761:2; SM710:T; NS369:4, 399:5, 642:1
The worthy ones who lived before Christ's first advent. HG731:6; NS236:5
From Abel to John the Baptist. D625; NS784:3
The faithful--Abraham, Samson, Moses, Isaac, Jacob, and Rahab, etc. R330:1
Friends and servants of God. R4543:1
The house of servants. HG132:1
The very elect of the previous dispensation. NS369:5
Including Moses and Elijah. R2659:5, 3345:3, 2342:1, 2288:6, 1761:2; F676; Q761:3
Including David, whose soul is still in hell. E377
We may reasonably expect that Nehemiah will be included. R2535:5, 2526:4
They will be the "Princes" through whom the Millennial Kingdom blessings will extend to all mankind. R4537:6, 4966:3, 330:1; D619; T109; CR472:4; NS520:2, SM239:3, 732:2
Showing a distinction in the gifts and callings of God. NS444:1
The restitution class. R1260:1, 1095:5
Without – The Church must receive her heavenly inheritance first. R5772:3, 5528:2, 5291:3, 5263:5, 5073:6, 5069:4, 4537:6, 4388:4,5
They cannot get actual restitution until the last member of the testator shall have passed beyond the veil. R4528:6
They must wait until the New Covenant is sealed. R4574:2
Perfection of the Church will be first. Q16:2; R5179:5, 2811:5; CR472:4
They will be resurrected later than the Church. R5238:4
Apart from us. R5772:3, 5344:4, 3378:1, 2153:3
Us – The Gospel Church, the Body of Christ, the Bride class. R4574:3-5, 5291:3, 4556:4, 4355:4, 3378:1, 2375:5, 2342:1, 2153:3, 1509:6, 1095:5, 330:1; C265; E676; SM313:1
The Church. R5344:4, 4454:3, 4366:4, 1761:2; CR157:2; Q761:3
The Church of the First Resurrection. R1260:1; HG439:5
The Christ. R2070:3, 361:6, 220:4
The spirit begotten class. R4388:5
The overcomers of the Gospel age. E144; R252:3
The very elect of this Gospel age. NS369:5, 642:1
Who are first in order in the resurrection. C94; E377; R1260:1
Sons of God; and heirs. R4543:1, 2035:4, 1007:6; HG132:1
Members of the great Priest, Mediator and King. R4554:5
Our instrumentality. R361:6
The glorification of the Church must first be accomplished before the blessings through them can proceed to the natural seed of Abraham and all nations. R5030:5, 1389:4, 1260:1; NS520:3
It is not because we are more nearly perfect in the flesh, but because the Lord opened the way. R5528:3
No matter how faithful or loyal Enoch, Abraham, David, Jeremiah and others were, they could not be recognized as members of the house of sons, because they lived before Jesus day. R5859:1; Q405:5
Paul cannot enter through the second veil until all who are fellow members of the same body have the body of flesh destroyed. R154:5
Should not – Until the sufferings of Christ are complete. F112
Jesus attested that the Ancient Worthies had not gone to heaven, saying "No man hath ascended up to heaven." (John 3:13) R5179:5, 3378:4, 2659:5, 1761:2, 838:5
Should not enter into the earthly blessings which belong to them. CR157:2; R5030:5
Enoch is not yet made a perfect man. R2153:3, 3378:1, 838:5
Because the blessing of all other classes is to come through the glorified Christ. A288; R297:5; NS520:3
The world's restitution could only have a slight and illustrative beginning until the "Body" is complete. R760:1, 605:4*
The "great salvation" must take place before the "common salvation." R742:1
Be made perfect – Restored. R193:5
The perfect images of God. R5291:3; CR472:4; NS520:4
Actually justified to life. R4574:5
Resurrection to human perfection. R4966:3, 4675:2, 4388:5; C265; CR117:1; Q532:3
The first great work of Christ in bringing mankind to perfection. CR472:4
The first of the earthly class to be resurrected to human nature. R5238:4
The perfecting will be instantaneous with their awakening from death, their trial having been passed successfully. R2035:3, 1179:6; F699; OV45:4
After the Bride of Christ has been united to Christ at his second coming. R4556:4, 4912:6, 4640:2, 2089:5
Since they are to be the children of Christ instead of the fathers, it follows that they could not get their life until The Christ is complete. R1007:4
They cannot get the earthly blessings and privileges and honors which God is pleased to give them until first Christ the Head and the Church his Body shall have been developed and glorified. NS663:1
They will be Princes in all the earth. (Psa. 45:16) R4574:5, 5859:3, 5444:6, 5344:4, 4788:4, 3937:1, 3868:1, 2983:1; C265
These Ancient Worthies will come forth from the tomb perfect, justified, restored fully, and in harmony with God. R4554:4, 4574:5
Perfected as men and samples of what all mankind, by obedience to the laws of the Kingdom, may attain to with eternal life. SM732:2; OV45:4
They will have a glorious place in the Kingdom. R5836:3
Second in rank in the work of salvation. R5073:6
They will be resurrected and enter into their reward as earthly representatives of Messiah's Kingdom. R4788:4, 4912:6, 2983:1, 2422:4, 2052:1; D625; NS748:3
They will be earthly judges, "I will restore thy judges as at the first and thy counsellors as at the beginning." (Isa. 1:26) NS748:3
Those Ancient Worthies who strove so faithfully and loyally to endeavor to keep the Law will get a rich reward. R5946:3
They shall not perfectly receive the things promised them until the seed (Christ) has first received its reward. R220:4; HG734:4
Not inherit the earthly good things promised to them. E144
Their loyalty to God and to righteousness is to be abundantly rewarded--an earthly blessing in the paradise to be established by Messiah's Kingdom throughout the entire earth. R5772:3
They will not have the decision of the divine court, respecting their worthiness for eternal life, until the conclusion of the trial at the end of the Millennial Age. R5074:6, 4598:6; Q13:1
Eventually, the destinies of those faithful before the cross, and those faithful since the cross, will be united in the Kingdom. R5263:5
Enoch and Elijah were not delivered completely from death, because the ransom had not yet been paid. R838:5
Moses and Elijah were not actually present on the Mount of transfiguration. R3345:3, 2659:5, 2342:4, 2288:6, 1761:2, 620:1; Q761:3
Wherever Enoch and Elijah may be, they are not perfected--they have not escaped the bondage of corruption. They are still under the sentence of death. R3417:5, 3378:1
The Scriptures seem to imply that the Ancient Worthies will at the close of the Millennium receive a still further blessing, namely, that they will be changed from human to spirit nature. R4389:1
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