It is interesting that people do what the Bible predicts. In this blog we want to discuss how true it is especially of those who criticise the Bible. Let us look at Paul’s advice to the Ephesian elders.
# On his way to Jerusalem, he called them and advised them.
‘Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood.’ 1 Notice that he says God bought the church with His own blood. We know it is Jesus who died on the cross. So it is evidence that Jesus is God.
# Paul warns about savage wolves and it is still relevant today.
‘I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.’ 2
- This still happens in our time. Many ‘scholars’ like Bart Ehrman initially professed faith in God and then left Him. Another very interesting example is Dan Barker. He was a pastor who defected (like Demas who left Paul because he loved the world 3).
- What do they do now? Bart Ehrman teaches at a theological college, although he professes that he is an agnostic and atheist. Dan Barker is co-leader of the Freedom from Religion Foundation. He opposes Jesus with all his might. What do they and many others like them prove? Paul’s warning through the Holy Spirit, is true. People still do what Paul prophesied. They leave the faith and distort the truth. Is that not a sure sign that Scripture is Holy Spirit inspired?
# People lose big time when they believe those who distort the truth and leave the faith.
They will be eternally separated from God. They will not be part of the Bride of Christ who will live in the peace and comfort of the Bridegroom. That is why Paul writes, ‘So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.’ 4 Why is Paul so serious about it? Because, ‘…the word of grace can build people up and give them an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.’ 5
Conclusion
Paul’s warning still applies to us in 2016: Cling to the King!
Do not let go. The rewards are out of this world – eternally in the presence of the Trinity on the new heavens and earth. 6
References
- Acts 20:28
- Acts 20:29
- 2 Timothy 4:10
- Acts 20:31
- Acts 20:32
- Revelation 21-22