Delving into the complexities of the 'day of the Lord,' this episode offers a nuanced exploration of its biblical significance, particularly as it relates to themes of resurrection and judgment. The discussion begins by examining the multifaceted portrayal of this day throughout the New Testament, where it emerges as a moment of divine reckoning. We highlight how this day is intricately linked to the resurrection, presenting a dual narrative of reward for the righteous and judgment for the wicked, drawing from a rich tapestry of scripture including John the Baptist’s teachings and the prophetic insights from Joel. The light-hearted banter interspersed throughout makes these weighty topics more digestible, allowing listeners to engage with challenging concepts without feeling overwhelmed.

As we journey through this profound subject, we also investigate how historical contexts—specifically the destruction of Jerusalem—serve as a backdrop to the biblical prophecies concerning the day of the Lord. This not only emphasizes the seriousness of the divine judgment but also highlights the promise of resurrection for those who have remained faithful.

Takeaways:

• The phrase 'day of the Lord' connects deeply with themes of resurrection and judgment, ensuring that both the righteous and the wicked face their respective outcomes.
• New Testament passages indicate that the day of the Lord serves as a pivotal moment for separating the righteous from the unrighteous.
• The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is intricately linked to the 'great and terrible day of the Lord,' marking a significant spiritual event that precedes judgment.
• Judgment and reward are not only intertwined but also reflect a divine promise of vindication for the faithful, echoing the longing of martyred souls for justice.
• The last day is not merely a 24-hour period but a significant era where the resurrection occurs, offering eternal life to believers while condemning those who reject Christ.
• Celestial signs will accompany this day, as foretold by prophets, emphasizing the grandeur and urgency of the events that will unfold during this crucial time.

Today, we dive into the intriguing topic of the second coming of Christ as outlined in Scripture, particularly focusing on the so-called "terrible day of the Lord." We unpack the significant implications of this day, which is often misconstrued as a distant, apocalyptic event, rather than a critical moment of judgment relevant to Jesus’ contemporaries. Through a thoughtful examination of Matthew 13, we explore how the harvest metaphor highlights the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, ultimately framing the conversation around the end of an age rather than the end of the world as we know it. As we compare the accounts in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, we uncover the disciples' genuine quest for understanding the signs of their time, challenging the notion that these prophecies were meant for a future generation. Join us as we navigate these complex themes, seeking clarity on a topic that has perplexed us for years.

Takeaways:

• The concept of the 'end of the age' as discussed in the podcast directly relates to the destruction of Jerusalem, not a distant future judgment day.
• Understanding the second coming of Christ within the context of first-century expectations provides clarity on biblical prophecies concerning judgment and fulfillment.
• The disciples' inquiries about signs of Jesus' coming were specifically tied to their generation, emphasizing the immediacy of the events discussed in Matthew 24.
• The podcast highlights that prophetic signs were intended for those living at the time, negating the notion that they pertain to future generations.
• A significant point made is that the terrible day of the Lord is an event that includes judgment on the wicked, not a complete end of the world scenario as commonly perceived.
• The historical context surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem illustrates the fulfillment of Jesus' teachings, underscoring the importance of heeding warnings for the faithful.

The crux of our discussion today revolves around the assertion that the second coming of Christ, as described in Scripture, has already transpired. This notion prompts us to consider the implications of a timeline where the last days have stretched over two millennia—a rather perplexing idea, wouldn’t you agree? We delve into the nuances of this interpretation, challenging traditional views and exploring the meanings behind key biblical texts, including 1 Corinthians 15. As we navigate through these theological waters, we’ll also reassess terms that have evolved over time, like "end," and ponder what the imminent return of Christ truly signifies in light of historical context and scriptural promises. So, buckle up as we embark on this thought-provoking journey that promises to challenge our understanding and perhaps even our expectations.

The discussion begins with a critical examination of Scriptural interpretations, particularly focusing on how the concept of the 'last days' has been stretched over two millennia. We challenge the traditional views, questioning whether this delay aligns with the biblical descriptions of imminence and fulfillment. We navigate through the theological nuances that arise when reinterpreting terms like 'end' and 'soon', suggesting that such linguistic gymnastics could undermine the very inspiration of the Scriptures we hold sacred.

In unraveling 1 Corinthians 15, we scrutinize the Apostle Paul's teachings and the expectations associated with the resurrection. The conversation takes a lively turn as we analyze the implications of Christ as the 'firstfruits' of the resurrection. We ponder over what it means for believers who are 'asleep' and how the transformative nature of resurrection is depicted in the New Testament. Our dialogue remains engaging and thought-provoking as we consider the broader implications of these theological discussions, particularly how they shape our understanding of life, death, and the afterlife.

Takeaways:

• The podcast challenges the traditional understanding of the second coming of Christ, proposing that it may have already occurred based on scriptural interpretations.
• Listeners are encouraged to reconsider the definitions of key terms in scripture, particularly regarding the 'end' and the implications of a 2000-year duration.
• The discussion emphasizes the significance of 1 Corinthians 15, suggesting a need to reassess its preaching and interpretation over the years.
• There is a compelling argument made about the imminent nature of Christ's return as understood in the first century, contrasting with modern perceptions.
• The episode highlights the necessity of recognizing the Holy Spirit's role and its connection to the fulfillment of Christ's mission and promises.
• The conversation draws attention to the historical context of the New Testament, particularly the judgments faced by first-century Israel and the implications for today's believers.

The second coming of Christ serves as the focal point of our discussion today, particularly within the historical context of the first century. We dive into the significance of this event for early Christian leaders, emphasizing how the miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit equipped them to endure tribulations and prepare for Christ's return. By examining scriptural references, we aim to illustrate that the leadership gifts bestowed upon the first-century saints were not intended for replication in our modern world, as they were specifically designed to address the needs of that unique period. This exploration leads us to consider the implications of Christ's victory over death and the grave, which not only fulfilled God's promises but also altered the course of spiritual leadership and community. So, grab your headphones and get comfortable, because we’re about to unravel some profound truths about faith, expectation, and the hope of resurrection!

The episode embarks on an intriguing journey through the eschatological landscape of the first-century saints, focusing on the significance of the second coming of Christ within the context of early Christian leadership. By examining the gifts bestowed upon early believers, the speaker argues that these were essential for preparing the faithful for Christ's imminent return. This perspective not only highlights the urgency felt by the first-century saints but also suggests that the roles and gifts of leadership were tailored specifically for that historical moment, raising questions about their applicability today. The discussion deftly navigates the complexities of how these early Christians understood their prophetic messages, emphasizing the transformative nature of Christ's resurrection as a pivotal moment in salvation history.

The resurrection is not merely a return to physical life but rather a profound spiritual transformation that signifies hope and renewal. By discussing the nature of death—both physical and spiritual—they invite listeners to reconsider their understanding of life after death, framing it within the context of restored fellowship with God. This rich theological exploration encourages a deeper contemplation of the promises inherent in the Gospel, especially in light of the early church’s anticipatory expectations of Christ's return.

Towards the end of the episode, the speaker challenges the notion of an extended 'last days' period, arguing that if the second coming has not yet occurred, it complicates the timeline of biblical prophecy. Such a view contradicts the original urgency expressed by the early Christians and raises questions about the nature of inspiration and the interpretation of key biblical texts. The dialogue culminates in a call for a reassessment of these eschatological beliefs, urging listeners to engage with the historical context and the original intent of the Scriptures. By unpacking these nuanced ideas, the episode not only enriches the listener's understanding of early Christian thought but also fosters a deeper engagement with contemporary faith practices.

Takeaways:

• The second coming of Christ carries profound implications for first-century leadership, revealing their worldview and preparation for His arrival.
• Historical context shows that leadership gifts were essential during the miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the first century.
• If we can demonstrate that gifts of leadership were meant for first-century believers, we must reconsider their relevance today.
• The fulfillment of God's promises during the last days indicates a transition from the Old Covenant to the New Jerusalem.
• Christ's resurrection marked a victory over death and Hades, promising a future glorification for believers beyond physical existence.
• The anticipation of Christ's return was not a distant hope but an imminent reality for the first-century church, challenging modern interpretations.

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles in Acts 2 is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for our exploration today. We'll dive into the significance of this event and compare it with the occurrences in Acts 10, Acts 19, and Acts 8, shedding light on the necessity for the Apostles to lay hands on new believers. You might find it intriguing that while Acts 2 marks a communal experience for the Jewish audience, the case of Cornelius showcases a remarkable exception to the rule, emphasizing divine approval in the inclusion of Gentiles. As we unpack these scriptures, we'll navigate the nuanced differences in how the Holy Spirit's presence is experienced by various groups, revealing a divine intention that transcends mere ritual. So, buckle up as we embark on this enlightening journey through the Book of Acts, where every passage is a stepping stone to understanding the profound workings of the Holy Spirit among the early disciples.

Takeaways:

• The outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 showcased an unprecedented miracle, demonstrating the apostles' ability to speak in various native dialects.
• Acts 8 and Acts 10 reveal the necessity of apostolic intervention for the Holy Spirit's miraculous gifts, highlighting the significance of laying hands on believers.
• The unique case of Cornelius illustrates that God can bestow the Holy Spirit without human mediation, affirming the inclusion of Gentiles into the faith.
• The reception of the Holy Spirit in Acts reflects the early church's understanding of divine authority, emphasizing the apostles' role in imparting spiritual gifts.
• The contrasting experiences of the Samaritans and Cornelius raise questions about the conditions for receiving the Holy Spirit in the early church.
• Understanding the cultural prejudices of the Jewish audience of Acts helps us appreciate the transformative impact of the Holy Spirit's outpouring on the apostles.

Summary:

The focus of our discussion centers on the remarkable outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as delineated in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. We commence our examination with the figures of Simeon and Anna, both of whom exemplify the profound influence of the Spirit to confirm the arrival of the last days and the coming of the Messiah. Their narratives are complemented by the accounts of Elizabeth and Zechariah, illustrating the divine orchestration surrounding the births of John the Immerser and Jesus. Each of these instances signifies a miraculous indwelling of the Holy Spirit, underscoring the extraordinary nature of these events. We conclude with the significant role of John the Immerser and the baptism of Jesus, both of which serve to encapsulate the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in that era. There was never promised a non-miraculous indwelling; therefore, we should not expect to find its fulfillment.

Notes:

The exploration of the Holy Spirit's outpouring during the formative days of the New Testament is a profound journey that commences with Simeon and Anna, who are depicted as inspired individuals reflecting the divine presence. Their experiences serve as a prelude to the miraculous events surrounding the births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, where the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is unmistakably portrayed. The discussion delves into the prophetic utterances of Zechariah and Elizabeth, who, through the miraculous working of the Spirit, articulate the significant role of their son, John, as a precursor to the Messiah. This theme of divine inspiration continues to unfold as we examine John the Immerser's ministry, culminating in the baptism of Jesus, an event marked by the descent of the Holy Spirit. The episode articulates how these occurrences are not mere historical anecdotes but pivotal moments that align with the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy, emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in preparing humanity for a new covenant with God.

Takeaways:

• The miraculous outpouring of the Holy Spirit was a significant theme during the last days, highlighting divine guidance received by Simeon and Anna.
• Luke's narrative emphasizes that every mention of the Holy Spirit's indwelling in his works signifies a miraculous event rather than a non-miraculous experience.
• The birth announcements of John the Baptist and Jesus serve as pivotal moments of the Spirit’s influence, showcasing the extraordinary nature of these events.
• John the Immerser was filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother's womb, marking a crucial moment in the prophetic lineage leading to Christ's ministry.
• The promise of the Holy Spirit was intricately tied to the prophetic fulfillment of Joel's prophecy, indicating a divine plan that spanned generations.
• Jesus himself was anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit, demonstrating the essential role of the Spirit in his earthly ministry and teachings.

The commencement of the last days, as foretold by the prophet Joel, is marked by the extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh, signaling the fulfillment of divine prophecy and the initiation of Christ's spiritual reign. This pivotal moment, occurring after a prolonged period of prophetic silence following Malachi, heralds a time of miraculous activity and profound revelation that was previously unseen. It is imperative to recognize that this era, often misinterpreted as an end in the temporal sense, constitutes the culmination of God's redemptive purpose, wherein the distinctions between Jew and Gentile are abolished within the ecclesia. Furthermore, the events of the first century serve not merely as historical accounts but as critical manifestations of God's plan, emphasizing the immediacy of His kingdom and the impending judgment associated with the great and terrible day of the Lord. In our discourse, we shall delve into the implications of this divine intervention and its significance within the overarching narrative of the New Testament.

Prophetic activity ceased by the end of Malachi's prediction of Elijah's coming as the forerunner to the Messiah. For 400 years, the region grew accustomed to a world without such direct intervention. Yet, the Jews were fully aware that in the "last days," there would be a "great and terrible day of the Lord", a time of judgment. In addition, it was further prophesied by Joel that before that day comes, the Holy Spirit would outpour upon all flesh.

Therefore, the clear and obvious sign that the last days had come was the presence of the miraculous that accompanies the prophetic fulfillment. Peter would explain that what was being witnessed on that day was what Joel had prophesied. This marks the time of fulfillment (cf. Gal. 4:4) of all prophesy regarding the Messiah's reign and not the return of a physical regime in the literal city of Jerusalem, but the spiritual reign of Christ within His people, the called out. The first would end when the Christ returned after His ascension to enact His vengeance on a people who rejected Him.

The plan had to be fully completed before that divine day of vengeance began. One cannot fully understand the New Testament until seeing that the age was the age of fulfillment. Another mistake is to equate the "end" of the age with the end of time and the world. The word translated "end" means the accomplishment of a purpose. It is not the "end of time" but the "time of the end" or the age of fulfillment. The redemptive plan will be achieved when the Messiah enters this realm and returns victorious as Lord and King. The "end" is similar to the thought expressed in the translated word, "perfect", i.e, complete or mature.

Numerous time statements confirms the imminence and expectation of his kingdom and the end of the age. But, to accomplish it, the Holy Spirit would be at work. His out-pouring was miraculous and those who receive Him and His power as a gift were guaranteed to be children of God and part of the called-out. This outpouring of divine power was necessary to accomplish divine prerogatives. It involved the inclusion of the Gentiles and the judgement of a people who had been the proud choice of God's possession - a feat that no man or group of men could accomplish. We are about to mark the presence of the Holy Spirit in the work of Luke.

Takeaways:

• The cessation of prophetic activity until the arrival of the Messiah is significant.
• The promise of the Holy Spirit's outpouring heralds the commencement of the last days.
• Understanding the 'end of the age' requires recognizing it as the fulfillment of divine purpose.
• The miraculous events of the first century were clear indicators of the last days in action.

This episode rigorously examines the intricate relationship between Christ's promised return and the role of the Holy Spirit in the interim period following His ascension. The speaker articulates a compelling argument based on biblical texts, particularly Ephesians 4 and John 14-16, asserting that the spiritual gifts mentioned in Ephesians were intended to function until specific conditions were met—conditions that heralded the maturity of the body as the 'one new man' comprising both Jews and Gentiles. The critical moment of 70 A.D., marked by the destruction of Jerusalem, is posited as a pivotal fulfillment of prophecy that signifies the transition from an age characterized by miraculous gifts to one of spiritual maturity and unity. The speaker underscores that the Holy Spirit's presence, while vital during the apostolic age, was never meant to persist in the same capacity indefinitely. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the non-physical nature of Christ’s presence as it relates to His promise to remain with His followers through the Holy Spirit, thus reframing the concept of His return not as a future physical event but as a completed reality in the context of redemptive history.

Takeaways:

• The gifted men mentioned in Ephesians 4 were divinely appointed by Christ until specific conditions outlined in Ephesians 4:12-13 were fulfilled.
• The promise of the Holy Spirit, as articulated in John 14, signifies His role in guiding the Apostles during Christ's absence until His return.
• The destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. serves as historical evidence of Christ's parousia, representing His presence rather than a physical return.
• Understanding the non-physical nature of Christ's presence during the destruction of Jerusalem is crucial for interpreting His promise to be with believers until the end of the age.
• The transition from the old covenant to the new is marked by the completion of revelation, which ended the necessity of miraculous gifts of the Spirit.
• Once the Holy Spirit's role in guiding and confirming the truth was accomplished, His peculiar function as "comforter" ended, indicating the completion of one era and the commencement of a new era.

The primary focus of this discourse centers on the transitory nature of spiritual gifts bestowed upon the early disciples through the apostles' laying on of hands. It is elucidated that such gifts were intended for a definitive period during the apostolic age, particularly as we no longer possess living apostles to convey these gifts. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit serves as a pledge of inheritance, analogous to the Greek concept of "arrabon," highlighting that the gifts were merely temporary assurances until the fulfillment of God's redemptive promises. Lastly, the metaphor of the marriage of the Lamb underscores the binding nature of this covenant, illustrating a preparatory phase leading to the consummation of the divine union. The culmination of these elements reinforces the understanding that the spiritual gifts were designed to assist in the transition from one era to the next, culminating in the ultimate realization of God's promises, which have now been fulfilled.

The discussion centers around the temporality of spiritual gifts as evidenced through three compelling proofs. The first proof delineates how spiritual gifts were conferred by the Apostles through the laying on of hands, a practice that is now obsolete due to the absence of living apostles. This cessation aligns with the theological understanding of the last days, which are characterized by fulfillment rather than ongoing promise. The second proof draws on the Greek concept of 'arrabon', likened to a pledge, wherein the Holy Spirit serves as a guarantee of the inheritance promised to believers until the fulfillment of that promise. This notion is illustrated through an ancient narrative involving Judah and Tamar, emphasizing that the promise's fulfillment negates the need for the initial guarantee. Finally, the episode explores the cultural significance of marriage customs as a metaphor for Christ's relationship with the Church, culminating in the eschatological promise of His return, highlighting the transition from one age to another, and the implications for those who are prepared versus those who are not. The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the spiritual gifts' duration, supported by scriptural references and cultural context, ultimately asserting that the present age of that era reflects a fulfillment of God's redemptive plan rather than an ongoing era of spiritual gifts.

In this episode, we explore the conditions attached to the text that describes a completed and matured stage that is reached by and through the gifted men that Christ gave His body. It took divine intervention to legislate and enforce the assimilation of Gentiles into the body. Humans would have prevented the creation of this "one new man."

In this lesson, we respond to the view that these conditions are unattainable in this life, making the work of what is commonly referred to as the fivefold gospel an ongoing work today. Even though it is extremely difficult to identify such men today, it is thought that God uses the same venue today to fulfill these conditions.

While it is true that any work of God that aids us in sanctification and holiness will contribute to our transformation, but the text of Ephesians 4:11-13 is about specific gifted men that Christ gave His people until such a time that certain conditions of maturity were accomplished. When this occurs, the gifted men are no longer needed. We reach this conclusion based on the illustration of the human stages of maturity and manhood. When moving from one stage to another, you put away those elements that were necessary at the time for development. For this reason, we do not see grown adults squeezing into a child's walker or reaching for a bottle to get a drink. And, though the growth never occurs overnight, it does occur. Similarly, the conditions described as being fulfilled one day is not a description of individual perfection or maturity but of the maturity of the "one new man" that includes Gentiles as fellow heirs.

One obstacle in the way is the idea that this truth of Gentile inclusion was already established as early as Acts 10-11. This assumes that the revealing of truth was all that was necessary for Jewish acceptance. Like an immature child who grows out of certain necessary but childish elements, the Jews and Gentiles becoming equal brothers was a stage of development that required some time to accomplish. These conditions explain what was accomplished when moving from childhood to manhood, spiritually.