Comments on: God’s Plan of the Ages – The Soul that Sins Must Die

By: dc

dc — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:38:31 +0000

Your writings brings to mind Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, being thrown into the blazing furnace, bound by order of Nebuchadnezzar, who states: "I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God." Those who tossed them in were slew, but S, M & A ("tied up in their trousers, their coats, their caps and their other clothes") were just fine!
For His (Jehovah's) sake & their commitment they sought not to save their lives but their lives were saved by the 4th Man in the fire. Plus the officials "saw in regard to these men that the fire had no effect on the bodies of these men nor was the hair of their head singed, nor were their trousers damaged, nor had the smell of fire even come upon them."
Interesting so much depiction of their clothing – logically all that would've ignited before they even were tossed in – like what happened to the inflamed guards.
The refining fire of God is beyond the natural!
How does this 'spark' you Brother Joseph!
Thanks again for your pen to paper inspirational insight of our Loving Word!

By: Joseph Herrin

Joseph Herrin — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 16:39:23 +0000

Dear Brother Earl,

I believe the disciple's cross must always be embraced voluntarily. I don't think it will be "required" of those in the kingdom age to take up their cross, but I believe the invitation will be there as the work of reconciling the world to the Father continues.

If you think of what the cross represents, it is a voluntary crushing of the soul. Everyone who takes up the cross must also pass through a Gethsemane experience where they are shown the cost of obedience, and must wrestle with choosing the Father's will over their own. Therefore, to be compelled, or required, to take up the cross is contrary to the invitation to present oneself to God as a free will offering.

May you be blessed with peace and understanding in these days,

Joseph

By: Earl

Earl — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:20:51 +0000

Brother Joseph,
Will those who live physical lives on earth during the Kingdom Age be required to take up their cross and follow Christ? Or, will there be no adding to the Body of Christ during that age?
Grace be with you. ARisingSon