Millennial

		*Crying In the Wilderness* *Web Ministry*
Home Reference Articles/Sermons		To be or not to be (Pre- Post- A-) Millennial???? I very cautiously and carefully began writing on this subject in November of 2008 while in Savannah Georgia. This is a subject of great debate concerning the revelation of St. John while “in” the Isle of Patmos. Not so long ago this was not an issue in the Baptist or any other Churches and has in recent years separated many of the same faith. First if you believe any man’s interpretation of God’s Word to be Gospel, you need to go back and read my article on the Gospel to better understand what the Gospel truly is. Please remember that any man means you and me. I do not wish to cause division or to have anyone fall out of fellowship with me concerning my beliefs. Though the views I will lay out in the coming paragraphs were once widely accepted they are thought archaic and naïve by today’s standards. My main goal is to see souls saved and the furtherance of the Gospel. A little while back it fell my lot to teach a Bible class on the book of Revelation. The Pastor had left the Church while teaching in around the fifth chapter and that left the remainder of John’s vision to me. I felt in my heart that there would be opposition to my interpretation as there were some modernists in the Church who had knowledge of the internet and appeared to lean heavily to man’s understandings. This soon proved out just as God had led me to believe. If you have read my article on the Gospel you should realize how heavily I rely and depend upon the Holy Spirit for help and guidance. I take a Bible class no less serious than I do when I preach a sermon or for that matter sing a song. In all things, I rely and depend upon God’s supply of the Holy Spirit. We should remember how the Gentile’s Apostle instructed us in 2 Timothy 2:15; “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The last portion of this passage is where the greatest errors of our day can be found! Make no mistake about it, you can study all day every day and not be the better for it, in fact, you can be worse. Now just don’t take the study part by itself. It’s true enough that we should study but why should we study? Paul answers this simply to “shew thyself approved unto God.” How many of us truly do this? Many of us study and do so for many different reasons. Some study with the goal to come up with an impressive message when they preach. Some study so their brothers and sisters think they have extensive Bible knowledge. Some study so their brothers and sisters and maybe even the world don’t think them to be slackers. Some study because they’ve been taught that they should but how many actually study to show themselves approved unto God? He is the only one that matters and if we study for any other reason, I fear our motive is not in sync with the scriptures. Now that we have established by the infallible Word of God the reason why we should study, let’s focus on how we should study. Herein lays the great error even though in the book of Proverbs we are plainly instructed to “lean not unto thine own understanding.” Even with these clear instructions, that is still what we do. Peter teaches “that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation” so don’t start off thinking you are the only one with the key to the mystery. He also teaches “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” If therefore it was received and written in the Spirit, it stands to reason that to rightly divide it we must rely upon the same method in which it was written. We’ve all read this and we all claim to believe it but how many of us actually practice it? I will take the liberty to answer for us, not many. For if we did rightly divide the scriptures, there would not be the division in the doctrines that we see in our Churches. Of course the evil one will now have a heyday with me as he will no doubt tell me that many will now click off this page and not return to this website. He will also tell me that there will be many of you who will no longer ask me to come and preach at your Church or even to come and sing. He’s told me these things before but I want to be like my Brother Paul, not only ready to be bound for the Gospel but to die for it also. Now onto the subject at hand; the word “millennial” is not mentioned within the Holy Scriptures and yet is considered a standard part of our vocabulary by today’s populous. If you do not share the same view on this as me, that will not hinder you from entering into heaven. In fact the main danger that I see in our differences is if you believe that a sinner will have a chance at repentance after our Lord rises from the mercy seat to begin His journey this way. For if you believe this and teach this, then you run the risk of having blood on your hands as the door of mercy will be shut. Do not play with or mishandle God’s Word! Today is the day of salvation. “To day if you will hear His voice, harden not your heart.” There are also some other dangers related to this mindset. If you teach that the Lord can’t come back until this happens or that happens, shame on you. Who is to say that you have misinterpreted His precious Word and are providing false hope to the sinner? I was looking for Him today and if He doesn’t come during the night, I’ll be watching for Him tomorrow. I even believe that Paul was looking for him in his day as he said “we that are alive and remain” instead of saying you that are alive and remain. Now I have some really good friends who lean toward the doctrine that I hope to address. I believe they love the Lord and they think that they are doing the right thing. I do not think that I’m the only one that can understand God’s message as I know it is of no private interpretation. I do not think that I cannot be wrong for God has showed me many times that I can be. This I do know however, what He reveals, seasons and sanctions with His Holy Spirit cannot be wrong. I have yet to hear any preaching, testifying, praying or singing concerning the thousand year reign that He witnessed with His Spirit and I would venture to say you haven’t either. Oh you may have heard Doctor so and so or Reverend so and so expound upon it with enticing words that may have peeked your interest but you should remember Paul’s instruction concerning rightly dividing the Word. You may not wish to be a part of this debate but if you are a child of God, you must stand within one of the camps. The definitions below were borrowed from Brother Mike Scott who has done much research and work in this area. While looking at some of his research I found it ironic that he still held the view of an A-Millennialist but did not hold to the KJV. Read the definitions and see which one best fits you? Premillennialism: Premillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the second coming of Christ will be followed by a period of world-wide peace and righteousness, before the end of the world, called ‘the Millennium’ or ‘the Kingdom of God,’ during which Christ will reign as King in person on this earth. (Premillennialists are divided into various groups by their different view of the order of events associated with the second coming of Christ, but they all agree in holding that there will be a millennium on earth after the second coming of Christ but before the end of the world). (Dr. Geerhardus Vos, The Pauline Eschatology, 1930). Postmillennialism: Postmillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the Kingdom of God is now being extended in the world through the preaching of the Gospel and the saving work of the Holy Spirit, that the world eventually will be Christianized, and that the return of Christ will occur at the close of a long period of righteousness and peace commonly called the Millennium. (Dr. Loraine Boettner, The Millennium, 1957) A-millennialism: Amillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the scriptures do not predict a ‘Millennium’ of world wide peace and righteousness on this earth before the end of the world. At the second coming of Christ the resurrection and judgment will take place, at which time Christ turns the kingdom (the church) over to God for the establishment of the eternal kingdom. From my own observations and to simplify let’s look at it this way, the “A-millennialist” believe that the interpretation of the scriptures is revealed by the Spirit. The “Post-Millennialist” believe that the scriptures are to be interpreted considering context and the “Pre-Millennialist” believe that the scriptures are to be interpreted literally. While literal and context interpretation have their place, they are not the common denominator Paul instructs us to use in order to rightly divide the Word of truth! Let’s look at the literal views of the Pre-millennial camp. Definition of the word millennial 1. A span of one thousand years. 2. A thousand-year period of holiness mentioned in Revelation 20, during which Jesus and his faithful followers are to rule on earth. 3. A hoped-for period of joy, serenity, prosperity, and justice. 4. A thousandth anniversary While some of you may consider yourselves far more educated than I am and while that may be true, this is not about man’s education or teachings but what God intends for His children to glean from His Word. Some will argue that pre-millennial doctrine traces back to the early Church fathers. Some will tie back to Justin Martyr and will bring up other names and notions. I believe that the origin can be traced back rather recently to the year 1830 and we can tie it to John Darby of England. It gained much of its popularity in America through the Scofield Reference Bible (of which I’m not a fan), around the turn of the twentieth century. The Scofield also alluded to seven different dispensations or distinct periods and from there many different varieties branched off. As previously stated, there are many different versions of pre-millennial beliefs and therefore we could not list all the points but I will attempt to summarize what I’ve been able to ascertain. Christ’s kingdom is not presently in this world, that He was rejected and must therefore come and establish an earthly kingdom. We are in the Church age and our purpose is not to preach the Gospel for conversion but rather as a witness to warn the world of the judgment to come. The world will continue to worsen until Christ comes to establish His kingdom. Just before Christ’s return there will be a period of great wickedness. Many of the pre-millennialist believe that the Church age is almost over and many believed that it was going to end in Y2K but of course had to regroup. They believe that the first resurrection will occur upon Christ’s return and the righteous dead will be raised. These that are raised will join those that are changed and will be caught up to meet Christ in the air. Some believe that this will last seven years and that there will be tribulation on the earth occurring simultaneously. Righteous judgment now takes place which consists mostly of assigning rewards. Now the Jews are to be restored their land. When the Jews see Him they will turn to Him in conversion as a nation. Christ destroys the Anti-Christ and his forces at Armageddon. The kingdom is established, Jerusalem is the capital and the saints reign one thousand years in peace and prosperity. The city and Temple is rebuilt and the sacrifices and ordinances of the Old Covenant restored. The deserts bloom with wonderful plants and the ferocious beasts are ferocious no more. Great numbers of Gentiles turn to God. Some will remain rebellious and will be held in check by the rod of iron. Satan is bound during this time and cast into the pit or hell. After the end of the thousand years, Satan is released and wickedness all but overtakes Jerusalem. The forces of wickedness are destroyed by fire from heaven. The second resurrection where the wicked are now raised and sent to hell. Eternity with a new heaven and a new earth. Now that we’ve looked at a brief summary of pre-millennial doctrine, let us look to the Author and Finisher of our faith for understanding. If this precious Word was to be interpreted literally, then the scholar or educated man would have preeminence over those of us who have not received the same teachings. This is contrary to the Word! It is ludicrous for us to assume that we have become smart enough in the past couple hundred years that we don’t need the Spirit to divide the Word for us any longer. Search your hearts and you’ll find the answer is that the god of this world has blinded us into thinking that we are smart enough to discern and understand this Word without the aid of the Holy Spirit. This is so similar to the Gnostic movement that was taking root in Paul’s day and yet we choose to be blind to it! I also consider it somewhat disrespectful to the Holy Men who’ve walked before us to think that we are more educated and clever in this age than they were. The truth of the matter is we are merely more carnal minded! If God will be my helper, I pray that I may now address the 21 points of the pre-millennial summary listed above and that He seasons my feeble words with His Holy Spirit. Christ’s kingdom is not presently in this world, that He was rejected and must therefore come and establish an earthly kingdom. Christ’s kingdom is here end of story! He is reigning as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He reigns in my heart and whether you’ll have it or not, I’m reigning with Him. OK, you take everything literal, Jesus said that there was some standing that would not taste of death until they saw the Kingdom of God come with power. If you are literal you must either admit one of three things, the Kingdom has come, there are some really old folks walking among us or the scriptures are broken! The Lord Himself tells us that the Kingdom of God cometh not with observation and that it is within His believing children. His Kingdom has come and that settles that! We are in the Church age and our purpose is not to preach the Gospel for conversion but rather as a witness to warn the world of the judgment to come. This is pitiful, the chief reason the Gospel is preached is for the conversion of the sinner. We must remember Paul’s words that the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation to all that believe. To the Jew first and also to the Greek. In future writings and as time permits, I hope to delve into the Jew/Greek issue as my view is not a literal interpretation there either. The world will continue to worsen until Christ comes to establish His kingdom. Finally a point I can somewhat agree on. The Bible teaches of a great falling away. I have witnessed this in my lifetime but I do not know how much it will continue to worsen until my Master returns and neither do you! Just before Christ’s return there will be a period of great wickedness. There has been a period of great wickedness since He ascended but who can measure the depth or breadth of the wickedness of other times versus what we face today? Let us not forget the acts of such evil ones as Hitler, the horrendous acts that took place during the Middle Ages and of course what is going on this very hour. Many of the pre-millennialist believe that the Church age is almost over and many believed that it was going to end in Y2K but of course had to regroup. I think that this one de-bunked itself with the prediction of the end of time. I heard it when I was in middle school from a modern missionary but he had it ending in 1978. Then there were those who said it would in 1984. The scripture teaches plainly that no man, no angel and even the Son does not know the hour of the end. This is reserved for the Father only so how does feeble man think that he can figure this one out? They believe that the first resurrection will occur upon Christ’s return and the righteous dead will be raised. Wrong again and this is a point where I’ve been criticized and even had one “tattle-tell” to another preacher on me. He claimed that I said the resurrection was already past of course this is because he is carnally minded. My Lord spake to John saying write, “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, over such the second death hath no power.” When you are born again, you die out to the old man and are resurrected to walk in the newness of life. This is the first resurrection and if you’ve had part in this the second death (which is the lake of fire), has no power over you. These that are raised will join those that are changed and will be caught up to meet Christ in the air. Some believe that this will last seven years and that there will be tribulation on the earth occurring simultaneously. Oh how sad it must be to believe in this. Oh the joy that it robs from God’s children. I’d rather you take the words of the Gentile’s Apostle. We shall be caught up to meet Him in the air and will ever be with Him and we should comfort one another with these words. Instead of comforting, these views cast fears, doubts and uncertainties. I need no further assurance than once I am with Him; I’ll ever be with Him! Righteous judgment now takes place which consists mostly of assigning rewards. How many of us focus on rewards? Oh the carnality of such thoughts! The hour is coming and now is that judgment must begin at the house of God. Oh, we don’t like that do we? If it begins with us, what will be the end of those who obey not the Gospel? Beloved, I’ve already been judged, found guilty but thanks be unto God, Christ paid my debt! The rewards are on this side. I know, I know, behold I come quickly and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work may be. That happens now. Walk with Him, talk to Him and obey Him and you will see what I’m talking about. What awaits me is not a reward but an inheritance. You haven’t done one thing worthy of His love so how are you expecting a reward of heavenly measure? The work was done by Him. We do not work to be saved but should work because we are. We could never be worthy as the worthiness is in the Lamb. My, my, the flesh doesn’t like this does it? That’s a good sign that we are on the right track. Now the Jews are to be restored their land. You must first understand the New Testament definition of a Jew. You say that you take the scriptures literally, well let’s see if you do. Paul said he is not a Jew which is one outwardly. If you take the scripture literally your pre-millennial views are already in jeopardy with that one line. Paul speaks of being a Jew inwardly and circumcision being of the heart and not the flesh whose praise is not of man but of God. Beloved don’t you see that the Israel of God is the believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no bigger Jew than the one writing this commentary. My land has been restored. As with Christ so it is with me, His kingdom was not of this world and neither is the land that will be restored unto me. When the Jews see Him they will turn to Him in conversion as a nation. This falls in line with my definition above. You can be assured of this that a nation as a whole will not be converted unless you count the nation of faith! Christ destroys the Anti-Christ and his forces at Armageddon. I’ve been in a fight for a long time now. I’ve witnessed “Anti-Christs” almost daily. John said it was in the world in his day. You run up on this “AC” and allow the Holy Spirit to overshadow you and you will witness Christ’s destruction of the Anti-Christ. Do not for a second criticize me and accuse me of thinking my Lord could not naturally destroy His enemies, no that is not at all my point. Our warfare is not carnal but rather spiritual and we forget that when we chase these new doctrines. The kingdom is established, Jerusalem is the capital and the saints reign one thousand years in peace and prosperity. This is where I will have the hardest time convincing the “literalists”. As I am writing this portion, I’m now in Jacksonville FL. Before I left Savannah Georgia this morning I noticed something very interesting. There was a copy of the “New King James” version of the Bible in the motel room. Of course this is an oxy-moron as King James lived some 400 years ago and He’s now released a new version? I was reading in Revelations Chapter 20 which is the only place in the entire Word of God that the thousand year reign is mentioned. I went back being led as I believe by the Spirit to the 10th Chapter to read where the angel puts one foot on the land and one on the see and declares that there should be time no longer. Guess what? In the new King James, it states that there should be no more delay and makes no mention that there should be time no longer. How convenient and if you are not true to the King James Camp this should at the very least convince you to back up and read my article on the King James. Don’t you see that the watering down of the Sacred Translation had a goal and purpose? It was designed to support the pre-millennial theory that didn’t come out until 1830. I of course was raised an A-Millennialist even though I didn’t know that was what I was. I read the twentieth chapter of Revelation for myself and naturally had questions concerning the thousand years mentioned there. One old preacher said he believed it was stated in relation to Methuselah who lived to be 963 years old so it would be the span of a man’s life. Of course this did not satisfy me but there was no way I could accept the changing views and scripture weakening statements that I was hearing from the opposition. First of all in the 10^th chapter, it has been declared that time shall be no longer. With no more time how are you going to calculate the thousand years or what would be the significance of it? That in itself pretty much tells you we are looking at a spiritual interpretation and not a literal. Now on to what the Lord has showed me that this thousand years represent. First to the Psalmist: Psalm 90:4 “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.” Ok, here it is only a watch in the night! And now to seal it: 2 Peter 3:8 “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” Now let’s spend a little time here. Notice how Peter admonishes us not to be ignorant of this one thing and here we have entire doctrines built around it! Why do you think Peter stated it this way? Was it just happenstance? I don’t think so. One day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day. The answer to the enigma that separates us is the Lord is speaking of one day. You can call it the Day of Judgment, Resurrection Day, Getting up Morning, Homecoming or whatever you choose but it is one day! This point starts off stating that the Kingdom will be established and we shall reign with Him a thousand years. The Kingdom has already been established and the Lord did this himself. His saints have also been reigning with Him but judgment and all of these other ideas will take place on the last day or if you must, (your thousand years). The city and Temple is rebuilt and the sacrifices and ordinances of the Old Covenant restored. This borders on getting me riled up! The temple was rebuilt in only three days and to look for another one is denying our Lord! You had better not get me started on restoring the sacrifices and ordinances that were under the law. Don’t you know that Christ is the end and fulfillment of the law? How dare anyone think that the law would be restored containing the sacrifices of bulls and goats when the supreme sacrifice was made at Calvary! I will not give this thought any further attention as it is downright offensive to me to even speak of such. Do not in anyway ever attempt to diminish the perfect work my Lord completed on the old rugged cross. The deserts bloom with wonderful plants and the ferocious beasts are ferocious no more. I don’t think that I’ll waste the time with this one. I’ve already seen ferocious beasts tamed and we should all be aware how Christ caused the multitude to sit down on green grass in a desert place! Let’s move on to more relevant points. Great numbers of Gentiles turn to God. Of course this has been happening since Peter paid Cornelius a visit. The preaching that took place after the translation of the KJV and the souls that were added to the Church is referred to as the “Great Awakening.” Who in the world would say that this has to still take place? Unfortunately since we’ve had the other so-called translations, I see more of a great falling away than a Great Awakening. Of course I’m just a little old uneducated country preacher so what would I know? Some will remain rebellious and will be held in check by the rod of iron. Again, this is going on now, you don’t have to wait to see it. Satan is bound during this time and cast into the pit or hell. Satan is bound for a season to allow for the Holy Spirit to work with us. If he wasn’t, we’d be deceived right up to our own end. After you are saved lookout as he is loosed again. He didn’t bother Jesus until after He was baptized. After the end of the thousand years, Satan is released and wickedness all but overtakes Jerusalem. Jerusalem is a representation of the Church and if you will be honest, he’s all but overtaken it now! How shameful is it that we have allowed this to happen? Oh by now many who read this are furious with me but I do pray that you examine yourself, your life, your Church and be totally honest with God. Beloved I’m not writing this to make people mad but to wake them up. I’m not going to refuse to write it because I know there will be some who are mad with me. Is it better to follow God or man? The forces of wickedness are destroyed by fire from heaven. Well, they got this one right. The second resurrection where the wicked are now raised and sent to hell. Lord do have mercy. This is the general resurrection where the sentence is passed upon those whose names are not written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. So simple that man just can’t believe it that way. Eternity with a new heaven and a new earth. The eternal home and a glorified body. The other camp must be careful or they could get caught up with Jehovah Witness doctrine with this one. Beloved, in closing let me say that I dreaded writing this entry into Tim’s corner for I know that some will be offended with me. That was never my intent for I wish to love and fellowship with all my brothers and sisters. The plain and simple truth is my brothers and sisters did not save me, call me, care for me, protect me, answer me when I pray or any of the things my Lord has done. I must follow His leadership even if I stand alone in what I believe are the last days. As I said in the beginning of this article, the only prerequisite for entry into heaven is to be born again. That means to be washed in the blood of the Lamb. Shun any doctrine that waters down or diminishes His perfect work concerning salvation. Follow after His Holy Spirit and not the will of man. Hold fast that you’ve received by His Spirit and let no man beguile or rob you of what God wants you to understand. Learn to decrease that He may increase all the more in your life. The offer still stands! If you’ve heard this doctrine preached in the spirit let me know and I’ll go with you to see for myself. I’ve visited a lot of Churches and have never felt any spirit when this has been mentioned. Beloved try the spirits and see whether or not they are of God. Finally, pray for me that I’ll continue in the path that He would have me to walk. That I would never think myself more than a sinner saved by His marvelous grace. Pray that I will be just as bold as Peter, John, Paul and many since have been. If you have taken issue with this article, take it to the Lord in prayer. He has the power not only to open your eyes but mine as well and has the power to correct each of us. May the grace of my God and the peace that passeth all understanding continually abide with you.

Crying In the Wilderness

Web Ministry

To be or not to be (Pre- Post- A-) Millennial????

I very cautiously and carefully began writing on this subject in November of 2008 while in Savannah Georgia. This is a subject of great debate concerning the revelation of St. John while “in” the Isle of Patmos. Not so long ago this was not an issue in the Baptist or any other Churches and has in recent years separated many of the same faith. First if you believe any man’s interpretation of God’s Word to be Gospel, you need to go back and read my article on the Gospel to better understand what the Gospel truly is. Please remember that any man means you and me.

I do not wish to cause division or to have anyone fall out of fellowship with me concerning my beliefs. Though the views I will lay out in the coming paragraphs were once widely accepted they are thought archaic and naïve by today’s standards. My main goal is to see souls saved and the furtherance of the Gospel.

A little while back it fell my lot to teach a Bible class on the book of Revelation. The Pastor had left the Church while teaching in around the fifth chapter and that left the remainder of John’s vision to me. I felt in my heart that there would be opposition to my interpretation as there were some modernists in the Church who had knowledge of the internet and appeared to lean heavily to man’s understandings. This soon proved out just as God had led me to believe.

If you have read my article on the Gospel you should realize how heavily I rely and depend upon the Holy Spirit for help and guidance. I take a Bible class no less serious than I do when I preach a sermon or for that matter sing a song. In all things, I rely and depend upon God’s supply of the Holy Spirit.

We should remember how the Gentile’s Apostle instructed us in 2 Timothy 2:15;
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” The last portion of this passage is where the greatest errors of our day can be found! Make no mistake about it, you can study all day every day and not be the better for it, in fact, you can be worse. Now just don’t take the study part by itself. It’s true enough that we should study but why should we study? Paul answers this simply to “shew thyself approved unto God.” How many of us truly do this? Many of us study and do so for many different reasons. Some study with the goal to come up with an impressive message when they preach. Some study so their brothers and sisters think they have extensive Bible knowledge. Some study so their brothers and sisters and maybe even the world don’t think them to be slackers. Some study because they’ve been taught that they should but how many actually study to show themselves approved unto God? He is the only one that matters and if we study for any other reason, I fear our motive is not in sync with the scriptures.

Now that we have established by the infallible Word of God the reason why we should study, let’s focus on how we should study. Herein lays the great error even though in the book of Proverbs we are plainly instructed to “lean not unto thine own understanding.” Even with these clear instructions, that is still what we do. Peter teaches “that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation” so don’t start off thinking you are the only one with the key to the mystery. He also teaches “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” If therefore it was received and written in the Spirit, it stands to reason that to rightly divide it we must rely upon the same method in which it was written. We’ve all read this and we all claim to believe it but how many of us actually practice it? I will take the liberty to answer for us, not many. For if we did rightly divide the scriptures, there would not be the division in the doctrines that we see in our Churches.

Of course the evil one will now have a heyday with me as he will no doubt tell me that many will now click off this page and not return to this website. He will also tell me that there will be many of you who will no longer ask me to come and preach at your Church or even to come and sing. He’s told me these things before but I want to be like my Brother Paul, not only ready to be bound for the Gospel but to die for it also.

Now onto the subject at hand; the word “millennial” is not mentioned within the Holy Scriptures and yet is considered a standard part of our vocabulary by today’s populous. If you do not share the same view on this as me, that will not hinder you from entering into heaven. In fact the main danger that I see in our differences is if you believe that a sinner will have a chance at repentance after our Lord rises from the mercy seat to begin His journey this way. For if you believe this and teach this, then you run the risk of having blood on your hands as the door of mercy will be shut. Do not play with or mishandle God’s Word! Today is the day of salvation. “To day if you will hear His voice, harden not your heart.” There are also some other dangers related to this mindset. If you teach that the Lord can’t come back until this happens or that happens, shame on you. Who is to say that you have misinterpreted His precious Word and are providing false hope to the sinner? I was looking for Him today and if He doesn’t come during the night, I’ll be watching for Him tomorrow. I even believe that Paul was looking for him in his day as he said “we that are alive and remain” instead of saying you that are alive and remain.

Now I have some really good friends who lean toward the doctrine that I hope to address. I believe they love the Lord and they think that they are doing the right thing. I do not think that I’m the only one that can understand God’s message as I know it is of no private interpretation. I do not think that I cannot be wrong for God has showed me many times that I can be. This I do know however, what He reveals, seasons and sanctions with His Holy Spirit cannot be wrong. I have yet to hear any preaching, testifying, praying or singing concerning the thousand year reign that He witnessed with His Spirit and I would venture to say you haven’t either. Oh you may have heard Doctor so and so or Reverend so and so expound upon it with enticing words that may have peeked your interest but you should remember Paul’s instruction concerning rightly dividing the Word.

You may not wish to be a part of this debate but if you are a child of God, you must stand within one of the camps. The definitions below were borrowed from Brother Mike Scott who has done much research and work in this area. While looking at some of his research I found it ironic that he still held the view of an A-Millennialist but did not hold to the KJV. Read the definitions and see which one best fits you?

Premillennialism:

Premillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the second coming of Christ will be followed by a period of world-wide peace and righteousness, before the end of the world, called ‘the Millennium’ or ‘the Kingdom of God,’ during which Christ will reign as King in person on this earth. (Premillennialists are divided into various groups by their different view of the order of events associated with the second coming of Christ, but they all agree in holding that there will be a millennium on earth after the second coming of Christ but before the end of the world). (Dr. Geerhardus Vos, The Pauline Eschatology, 1930).

Postmillennialism:

Postmillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the Kingdom of God is now being extended in the world through the preaching of the Gospel and the saving work of the Holy Spirit, that the world eventually will be Christianized, and that the return of Christ will occur at the close of a long period of righteousness and peace commonly called the Millennium. (Dr. Loraine Boettner, The Millennium, 1957)

A-millennialism:

Amillennialism is that view of the last things which holds that the scriptures do not predict a ‘Millennium’ of world wide peace and righteousness on this earth before the end of the world. At the second coming of Christ the resurrection and judgment will take place, at which time Christ turns the kingdom (the church) over to God for the establishment of the eternal kingdom.

From my own observations and to simplify let’s look at it this way, the “A-millennialist” believe that the interpretation of the scriptures is revealed by the Spirit. The “Post-Millennialist” believe that the scriptures are to be interpreted considering context and the “Pre-Millennialist” believe that the scriptures are to be interpreted literally. While literal and context interpretation have their place, they are not the common denominator Paul instructs us to use in order to rightly divide the Word of truth! Let’s look at the literal views of the Pre-millennial camp.

Definition of the word millennial

1. A span of one thousand years.

2. A thousand-year period of holiness mentioned in Revelation 20, during which Jesus and his faithful followers are to rule on earth.

3. A hoped-for period of joy, serenity, prosperity, and justice.

4. A thousandth anniversary

While some of you may consider yourselves far more educated than I am and while that may be true, this is not about man’s education or teachings but what God intends for His children to glean from His Word. Some will argue that pre-millennial doctrine traces back to the early Church fathers. Some will tie back to Justin Martyr and will bring up other names and notions. I believe that the origin can be traced back rather recently to the year 1830 and we can tie it to John Darby of England. It gained much of its popularity in America through the Scofield Reference Bible (of which I’m not a fan), around the turn of the twentieth century. The Scofield also alluded to seven different dispensations or distinct periods and from there many different varieties branched off.

As previously stated, there are many different versions of pre-millennial beliefs and therefore we could not list all the points but I will attempt to summarize what I’ve been able to ascertain.

Christ’s kingdom is not presently in this world, that He was rejected and must therefore come and establish an earthly kingdom.
We are in the Church age and our purpose is not to preach the Gospel for conversion but rather as a witness to warn the world of the judgment to come.
The world will continue to worsen until Christ comes to establish His kingdom.
Just before Christ’s return there will be a period of great wickedness.
Many of the pre-millennialist believe that the Church age is almost over and many believed that it was going to end in Y2K but of course had to regroup.
They believe that the first resurrection will occur upon Christ’s return and the righteous dead will be raised.
These that are raised will join those that are changed and will be caught up to meet Christ in the air. Some believe that this will last seven years and that there will be tribulation on the earth occurring simultaneously.
Righteous judgment now takes place which consists mostly of assigning rewards.
Now the Jews are to be restored their land.
When the Jews see Him they will turn to Him in conversion as a nation.
Christ destroys the Anti-Christ and his forces at Armageddon.
The kingdom is established, Jerusalem is the capital and the saints reign one thousand years in peace and prosperity.
The city and Temple is rebuilt and the sacrifices and ordinances of the Old Covenant restored.
The deserts bloom with wonderful plants and the ferocious beasts are ferocious no more.
Great numbers of Gentiles turn to God.
Some will remain rebellious and will be held in check by the rod of iron.
Satan is bound during this time and cast into the pit or hell.
After the end of the thousand years, Satan is released and wickedness all but overtakes Jerusalem.
The forces of wickedness are destroyed by fire from heaven.
The second resurrection where the wicked are now raised and sent to hell.
Eternity with a new heaven and a new earth.

Now that we’ve looked at a brief summary of pre-millennial doctrine, let us look to the Author and Finisher of our faith for understanding. If this precious Word was to be interpreted literally, then the scholar or educated man would have preeminence over those of us who have not received the same teachings. This is contrary to the Word! It is ludicrous for us to assume that we have become smart enough in the past couple hundred years that we don’t need the Spirit to divide the Word for us any longer. Search your hearts and you’ll find the answer is that the god of this world has blinded us into thinking that we are smart enough to discern and understand this Word without the aid of the Holy Spirit. This is so similar to the Gnostic movement that was taking root in Paul’s day and yet we choose to be blind to it! I also consider it somewhat disrespectful to the Holy Men who’ve walked before us to think that we are more educated and clever in this age than they were. The truth of the matter is we are merely more carnal minded!

If God will be my helper, I pray that I may now address the 21 points of the pre-millennial summary listed above and that He seasons my feeble words with His Holy Spirit.

Christ’s kingdom is not presently in this world, that He was rejected and must therefore come and establish an earthly kingdom. Christ’s kingdom is here end of story! He is reigning as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He reigns in my heart and whether you’ll have it or not, I’m reigning with Him. OK, you take everything literal, Jesus said that there was some standing that would not taste of death until they saw the Kingdom of God come with power. If you are literal you must either admit one of three things, the Kingdom has come, there are some really old folks walking among us or the scriptures are broken! The Lord Himself tells us that the Kingdom of God cometh not with observation and that it is within His believing children. His Kingdom has come and that settles that!
We are in the Church age and our purpose is not to preach the Gospel for conversion but rather as a witness to warn the world of the judgment to come. This is pitiful, the chief reason the Gospel is preached is for the conversion of the sinner. We must remember Paul’s words that the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation to all that believe. To the Jew first and also to the Greek. In future writings and as time permits, I hope to delve into the Jew/Greek issue as my view is not a literal interpretation there either.
The world will continue to worsen until Christ comes to establish His kingdom. Finally a point I can somewhat agree on. The Bible teaches of a great falling away. I have witnessed this in my lifetime but I do not know how much it will continue to worsen until my Master returns and neither do you!
Just before Christ’s return there will be a period of great wickedness. There has been a period of great wickedness since He ascended but who can measure the depth or breadth of the wickedness of other times versus what we face today? Let us not forget the acts of such evil ones as Hitler, the horrendous acts that took place during the Middle Ages and of course what is going on this very hour.
Many of the pre-millennialist believe that the Church age is almost over and many believed that it was going to end in Y2K but of course had to regroup. I think that this one de-bunked itself with the prediction of the end of time. I heard it when I was in middle school from a modern missionary but he had it ending in 1978. Then there were those who said it would in 1984. The scripture teaches plainly that no man, no angel and even the Son does not know the hour of the end. This is reserved for the Father only so how does feeble man think that he can figure this one out?
They believe that the first resurrection will occur upon Christ’s return and the righteous dead will be raised. Wrong again and this is a point where I’ve been criticized and even had one “tattle-tell” to another preacher on me. He claimed that I said the resurrection was already past of course this is because he is carnally minded. My Lord spake to John saying write, “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, over such the second death hath no power.” When you are born again, you die out to the old man and are resurrected to walk in the newness of life. This is the first resurrection and if you’ve had part in this the second death (which is the lake of fire), has no power over you.
These that are raised will join those that are changed and will be caught up to meet Christ in the air. Some believe that this will last seven years and that there will be tribulation on the earth occurring simultaneously. Oh how sad it must be to believe in this. Oh the joy that it robs from God’s children. I’d rather you take the words of the Gentile’s Apostle. We shall be caught up to meet Him in the air and will ever be with Him and we should comfort one another with these words. Instead of comforting, these views cast fears, doubts and uncertainties. I need no further assurance than once I am with Him; I’ll ever be with Him!
Righteous judgment now takes place which consists mostly of assigning rewards. How many of us focus on rewards? Oh the carnality of such thoughts! The hour is coming and now is that judgment must begin at the house of God. Oh, we don’t like that do we? If it begins with us, what will be the end of those who obey not the Gospel? Beloved, I’ve already been judged, found guilty but thanks be unto God, Christ paid my debt! The rewards are on this side. I know, I know, behold I come quickly and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work may be. That happens now. Walk with Him, talk to Him and obey Him and you will see what I’m talking about. What awaits me is not a reward but an inheritance. You haven’t done one thing worthy of His love so how are you expecting a reward of heavenly measure? The work was done by Him. We do not work to be saved but should work because we are. We could never be worthy as the worthiness is in the Lamb. My, my, the flesh doesn’t like this does it? That’s a good sign that we are on the right track.
Now the Jews are to be restored their land. You must first understand the New Testament definition of a Jew. You say that you take the scriptures literally, well let’s see if you do. Paul said he is not a Jew which is one outwardly. If you take the scripture literally your pre-millennial views are already in jeopardy with that one line. Paul speaks of being a Jew inwardly and circumcision being of the heart and not the flesh whose praise is not of man but of God. Beloved don’t you see that the Israel of God is the believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no bigger Jew than the one writing this commentary. My land has been restored. As with Christ so it is with me, His kingdom was not of this world and neither is the land that will be restored unto me.
When the Jews see Him they will turn to Him in conversion as a nation. This falls in line with my definition above. You can be assured of this that a nation as a whole will not be converted unless you count the nation of faith!
Christ destroys the Anti-Christ and his forces at Armageddon. I’ve been in a fight for a long time now. I’ve witnessed “Anti-Christs” almost daily. John said it was in the world in his day. You run up on this “AC” and allow the Holy Spirit to overshadow you and you will witness Christ’s destruction of the Anti-Christ. Do not for a second criticize me and accuse me of thinking my Lord could not naturally destroy His enemies, no that is not at all my point. Our warfare is not carnal but rather spiritual and we forget that when we chase these new doctrines.
The kingdom is established, Jerusalem is the capital and the saints reign one thousand years in peace and prosperity. This is where I will have the hardest time convincing the “literalists”. As I am writing this portion, I’m now in Jacksonville FL. Before I left Savannah Georgia this morning I noticed something very interesting. There was a copy of the “New King James” version of the Bible in the motel room. Of course this is an oxy-moron as King James lived some 400 years ago and He’s now released a new version? I was reading in Revelations Chapter 20 which is the only place in the entire Word of God that the thousand year reign is mentioned. I went back being led as I believe by the Spirit to the 10th Chapter to read where the angel puts one foot on the land and one on the see and declares that there should be time no longer. Guess what? In the new King James, it states that there should be no more delay and makes no mention that there should be time no longer. How convenient and if you are not true to the King James Camp this should at the very least convince you to back up and read my article on the King James. Don’t you see that the watering down of the Sacred Translation had a goal and purpose? It was designed to support the pre-millennial theory that didn’t come out until 1830. I of course was raised an A-Millennialist even though I didn’t know that was what I was. I read the twentieth chapter of Revelation for myself and naturally had questions concerning the thousand years mentioned there. One old preacher said he believed it was stated in relation to Methuselah who lived to be 963 years old so it would be the span of a man’s life. Of course this did not satisfy me but there was no way I could accept the changing views and scripture weakening statements that I was hearing from the opposition. First of all in the 10^th chapter, it has been declared that time shall be no longer. With no more time how are you going to calculate the thousand years or what would be the significance of it? That in itself pretty much tells you we are looking at a spiritual interpretation and not a literal. Now on to what the Lord has showed me that this thousand years represent. First to the Psalmist: Psalm 90:4 “For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night.” Ok, here it is only a watch in the night! And now to seal it: 2 Peter 3:8 “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” Now let’s spend a little time here. Notice how Peter admonishes us not to be ignorant of this one thing and here we have entire doctrines built around it! Why do you think Peter stated it this way? Was it just happenstance? I don’t think so. One day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day. The answer to the enigma that separates us is the Lord is speaking of one day. You can call it the Day of Judgment, Resurrection Day, Getting up Morning, Homecoming or whatever you choose but it is one day! This point starts off stating that the Kingdom will be established and we shall reign with Him a thousand years. The Kingdom has already been established and the Lord did this himself. His saints have also been reigning with Him but judgment and all of these other ideas will take place on the last day or if you must, (your thousand years).
The city and Temple is rebuilt and the sacrifices and ordinances of the Old Covenant restored. This borders on getting me riled up! The temple was rebuilt in only three days and to look for another one is denying our Lord! You had better not get me started on restoring the sacrifices and ordinances that were under the law. Don’t you know that Christ is the end and fulfillment of the law? How dare anyone think that the law would be restored containing the sacrifices of bulls and goats when the supreme sacrifice was made at Calvary! I will not give this thought any further attention as it is downright offensive to me to even speak of such. Do not in anyway ever attempt to diminish the perfect work my Lord completed on the old rugged cross.
The deserts bloom with wonderful plants and the ferocious beasts are ferocious no more. I don’t think that I’ll waste the time with this one. I’ve already seen ferocious beasts tamed and we should all be aware how Christ caused the multitude to sit down on green grass in a desert place! Let’s move on to more relevant points.
Great numbers of Gentiles turn to God. Of course this has been happening since Peter paid Cornelius a visit. The preaching that took place after the translation of the KJV and the souls that were added to the Church is referred to as the “Great Awakening.” Who in the world would say that this has to still take place? Unfortunately since we’ve had the other so-called translations, I see more of a great falling away than a Great Awakening. Of course I’m just a little old uneducated country preacher so what would I know?
Some will remain rebellious and will be held in check by the rod of iron. Again, this is going on now, you don’t have to wait to see it.
Satan is bound during this time and cast into the pit or hell. Satan is bound for a season to allow for the Holy Spirit to work with us. If he wasn’t, we’d be deceived right up to our own end. After you are saved lookout as he is loosed again. He didn’t bother Jesus until after He was baptized.
After the end of the thousand years, Satan is released and wickedness all but overtakes Jerusalem. Jerusalem is a representation of the Church and if you will be honest, he’s all but overtaken it now! How shameful is it that we have allowed this to happen? Oh by now many who read this are furious with me but I do pray that you examine yourself, your life, your Church and be totally honest with God. Beloved I’m not writing this to make people mad but to wake them up. I’m not going to refuse to write it because I know there will be some who are mad with me. Is it better to follow God or man?
The forces of wickedness are destroyed by fire from heaven. Well, they got this one right.
The second resurrection where the wicked are now raised and sent to hell. Lord do have mercy. This is the general resurrection where the sentence is passed upon those whose names are not written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. So simple that man just can’t believe it that way.
Eternity with a new heaven and a new earth. The eternal home and a glorified body. The other camp must be careful or they could get caught up with Jehovah Witness doctrine with this one.

Beloved, in closing let me say that I dreaded writing this entry into Tim’s corner for I know that some will be offended with me. That was never my intent for I wish to love and fellowship with all my brothers and sisters. The plain and simple truth is my brothers and sisters did not save me, call me, care for me, protect me, answer me when I pray or any of the things my Lord has done. I must follow His leadership even if I stand alone in what I believe are the last days.

As I said in the beginning of this article, the only prerequisite for entry into heaven is to be born again. That means to be washed in the blood of the Lamb. Shun any doctrine that waters down or diminishes His perfect work concerning salvation. Follow after His Holy Spirit and not the will of man. Hold fast that you’ve received by His Spirit and let no man beguile or rob you of what God wants you to understand. Learn to decrease that He may increase all the more in your life.

The offer still stands! If you’ve heard this doctrine preached in the spirit let me know and I’ll go with you to see for myself. I’ve visited a lot of Churches and have never felt any spirit when this has been mentioned. Beloved try the spirits and see whether or not they are of God.

Finally, pray for me that I’ll continue in the path that He would have me to walk. That I would never think myself more than a sinner saved by His marvelous grace. Pray that I will be just as bold as Peter, John, Paul and many since have been. If you have taken issue with this article, take it to the Lord in prayer. He has the power not only to open your eyes but mine as well and has the power to correct each of us.

May the grace of my God and the peace that passeth all understanding continually abide with you.