INTRODUCTION
THE BIBLE CAN BE PROVEN TO BE TRUE
Much of the world does not believe in God or the Bible. As a result, a certain skeptic determined to find out if the Bible could be proven to be true.
The Bible contains thousands of prophecies that were to come to pass at a future date. Multitudes were checked. Incredibly, 100% were found to be perfectly accurate and true.
Without a doubt, the Bible is the Word of God, and it can be proven to be so, even by skeptics. It is written: 2 Tim 3:16-All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Pe 1:21-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.
THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD
The Scriptures reveal there would be 7 churches (or 7 church ages), beginning with the death of Jesus and ending with an event called in the Bible “the caught up,” or “translation.” It is called the rapture by most. Many believe that event is now very close.
It will be followed by what is called the tribulation, and then, immediately afterward, the Battle of Armageddon. At that time, Christ will return in power and great glory.
Satan will be cast into the bottomless pit, and a seal will be put on him, so he can no longer deceive the nations.
Jesus will reign and rule for 1000 years. After the 1000 years are expired, Satan will be loosed for a little season. There will be one final rebellion. The heavens and the earth will pass away. Satan is cast into the lake of fire.
God creates new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness. And there shall come forth the holy city, New Jerusalem. It is spectacular. It is app. 1500 miles, by 1500 miles, by 1500 miles-Rev 3:12; 21:2.
Rev 21:5-And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
THE SEVEN CHURCHES Rev 2:1 to 3:22.
As one studies the 7 churches, each reflects the characteristics of the Christian church during the approximate time periods given.
Specifics of each church should be found under the Revelation study. Each church gradually changed into the characteristics of the next one. Thus, it is not possible to say this one ended or began this or that year. As such, the dates are in general.
1-Ephesus. Rev 2:1-7. Christ’s death to 160AD
2-Smyrna. Rev 2:8-11. 160-313AD
3-Pergamos. Rev 2:12-17. 313-606AD
4-Thyatira. Rev 2:17-29. 606-1517AD
5-Sardis. Rev 3:1-6. 1517-1750AD
6-Philadelphia. Rev 3:7-13. 1750-(1917/1948)
7-Laodicea. Rev 3:14-22. 1917/1948-to the rapture.
The church age of right now is called Laodicea. It is lukewarm, and neither cold or hot. It is also referred to as wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked.
However, there are still elements of the 4th, 5th & 6th churches present with us today in the Laodicean age.
Much of the bible teaching from pulpits has now been replaced with endless stories, little scripture, psychology, self-esteem teaching, prosperity. There is little on sin, humbleness, denying oneself, and obeying the Bible. Much preaching is to please people, not God. God is now portrayed, by some, as our servant, rather than we are His servants. Some preachers are as good as Hollywood actors as they perform on stage. Salvation without repentance is now common. Teaching from a human perspective, rather than the Bible, is also common.
When the rapture comes, all from this (the Laodicean) church are spewed out (as in vomiting), except those that overcome. The teaching of many in this present time is not biblically sound, but the church knoweth it not-Rev 3:17.
There are some present from the previous churches of Thyatira, Sardis, and Philadelphia in these latter days as is reflected in Rev 2:22; 3:3; 3:10.