Epic Sacrifice

(Study 3 of The King of Glory Series Relating to the Eternal Son - Covering Five Successive Eras.)

The Divine Self-Emptying Other-Centered Life That Demonstrated the Kind of Love that is Stronger Than Death

by Jeff Wilson
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
In the body of Christ

I would like to thank all my precious friends who contributed to this study even those of you I have not met in person. We may not see everything the same way, yet thats ok. Uniformity does not mean conformity where we all think or act the same way. We all uniquely differ and complement each other in a unity not necessarily based on EXACT doctrinal conformity but a unity of love, in worship, spirit, purpose and a passion for gospel truth in the body of Christ. I am mindful and grateful of the way my friends within the body of believers offered their thoughtful contributions, and sensitive and constructive criticism to help complement this series of studies. Thank you. What I am saying is that, in one sense, this series is the result of prayerful synergistic shared thinking! Acknowledgements: James Crider: You were the one who influenced me to explore Revelations slain Lambs imagery a little further and decode Rev 5:6,7. Michael Delaney: You helped me understand some critical dynamics surrounding Christs substitute death as us more fully. Frank Klin: In our correspondence you placed a key in my hand that opened the Scriptural passages that correlated and contrasted the seven-horned Lamb with the antichrist more perfectly. Gary Hullquist: Appreciate your insights on John 10: 17,18 as presented in Theos Magazine. Corey McCain: Your thoughts on the nature of the separation between the Father and Son at the cross were an insightful and important contribution. Blair Andrews: Your blunt criticism enabled me to push the boundaries just that little bit more. I valued your words of encouragement also! Carron Lake: The way you clarified Phil 2:6,7 by greatly simplifying the difficult-to-explain concept of Christs self-emptying was a Godsend. Adrian Ebens: Your sermons, DVDs, written articles and The Return of Elijah helped me gain more appreciation for the universal channel of blessing concept and how this is key to the blessing, security, success and preservation of marriages, churches, families and society. And your burden for Gods SDA church and your spirit and decision to follow your convictions at any cost is inspirational. Terry Hill: Your thoroughness and scholarly depth in your Biblical research is powerful and affirming reminding us to dig deep for hidden treasure. David Clayton: Out of everything I have ever heard or read concerning the vital/central subject of righteousness by faith, in connection with the personality of God and Christ, few have presented it with such power, clarity and depth that both stirs my heart and speaks to my heart as you have. I could name 3 other very close friends who helped me see things clearer. One person in fact who has helped more than any other by . . . countless editorial comments and suggestions, and who will remain anonymous for personal reasons, deserves my hearty thanks. Thank you ______ I am grateful for the many opportunities to connect with all these, and other, beautiful people in the body of Christ. May the Father bless you all! I really appreciate your input every one of you! J

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Study 1:

Family Attack
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Christ Our Everlasting Father

Study 2:

Study 3:
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Epic Sacrifice

Study 4:
Omni Paradox
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Study 5:
The Great Arian Controversy

King of Glory Series

Covering 5 Expansive Eras
Series Outline
Study 1: Family Attack (Eternal Ages In the beginning Era) A study of heavens family dispute as echoed in the life of Joseph. We will explore the universal principle of submission and how it was reflected and demonstrated in the life of Joseph and more importantly the life of Jesus. We will see how this principle is vitally necessary for the success and happiness of individuals, families, churches and society. Study 2: Christ Our Everlasting Father (Pre-Creation to the Incarnation Era) Features the Pre-existent Son and the significance of His many given names and family names as related to His nature and character. The controversy concerning the identity of Gods Son is considered.

-------3: Epic Sacrifice (The Cross Era) Exploring the incarnation and infinite sacrifice of Christ and how the inestimable value of this sacrifice is proportional to His divine identity. This pivotal study directly interconnects with the two studies before and after it

-------4: The 3-Fold Omni Paradox (Pentecostal Era) Features the glorification of Christ as our anointed everlasting priest and how this was connected to Pentecost and relates to us today --------5: The Great Arian Controversy (Dark Ages Era to Our Day) A study concerning the 3rd century identity war over the Father and Son and how this was associated with the abomination of desolation which seems to be repeated in our day

Truth Looses Nothing By Investigation

jeffmurraywilson@gmail.com Last revision 08/12/2011
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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction Two Loved Kings Who Laid Aside Their Robes and Crowns Emptied Himself.Laid Aside exactly what? 1. Laid down His majestic glory Christs divinity is the result of His inheritance as the Son of God 2. Calvary: When the Son of God laid aside His immortal life

p. 6 p. 7 p. 12 p. 18 p. 23

p. 26

The Infinite Sacrifice: Tasting death for every man

p. 30

What Death Does the Son of God Save Us From? Three reasons Jesus was crucified and not stoned Epic Sacrifice Epic Counterfeit

p. 33 p. 34

p. 41 p. 44.

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Epic Proportion is a revised version of Power Laid Down by Jeff Wilson. June & September, November 2011 5

Introduction

This exploration study features the divine nature, humanity, the gift of Christs sacrificial death of epic proportion and His resurrected glorified life. It is the Fathers gift of His only begotten eternal Son (John 3:16), which shows the extent of His love for us. This was prefigured to the world in how Abraham was willing to give up his only begotten son Isaac. It is often the case that when studying this topic that questions come to mind such as, what specific attributes did the Son of God originally possess in heaven long before His incarnation? What, among these, did He retain during the incarnation? And what attributes did He possess after His death, burial, resurrection and glorification upon His ascension to heaven? And probably the most important question, what does that mean for us and what is the practical life-application today? For the most part, we will critically and carefully examine what attributes the Son of God laid aside prior to His incarnation and mull over the unique unusual expression emptied Himself (Phil 2:7, HNV) in relation to Him being made in the likeness of men (Phil 2:7 KJV). We will see that this expression is suggestive of mysteriously pouring Himself out from the majestic being Michael, in order to be impregnated into a tiny embryo within Marys womb!. There are some difficult areas we need to consider and in order to come to a correct and accurate conclusion, it is imperative we examine it AS A WHOLE and not in isolated segments. In doing so, it is not wise to carelessly rationalize or justify personal biases that lack Scriptural consistency. A number of difficult passages of Scripture need to be examined and placed in their proper context. On the surface, they may seem contradictory, but are in reality paradoxes and when understood, reveal great truths. Finally, this in depth exploratory study looks at the events approaching and surrounding the passion of Christ and the underlying reasons WHY He died. This is a foundation for the follow-up study of the incarnation addressing questions in relation to the omnis.

FOLLOW-UP STUDY: The 3-Fold Omni Paradox

The sequel exploratory study The 3-Fold Omni Paradox, featuring Rev 5:6, explores the unique heaven-originating attributes of Christ. Did the son of man (incarnated Son of God) relinquish His omniscience (all knowledge), omnipotence (all power) and omnipresence (the ability to be everywhere present)? Or did He lay some or all of these divine attributes aside? Is it that black and white or is there something else that is too often overlooked that must be factored into this topic? These questions demand answers if we are to avoid forming erroneous opinions and ever going to appreciate the divine and human nature of Christ to a fuller extent. We will see what was needed in order for the Son of God not only to qualify as our perfect example, but to manifest His Fathers character and become our Savior, our substitute in death, our righteousness and glorified High Priest.

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Two Loved Kings Who Laid Aside Their Robes and Crowns

Recently I read a short story written by Frank R Stockton entitled A Jerseyman And His Royal Crown. While reading, I began to see some striking parallels and contrasts between Stocktons account, and a story we are well familiar of - the Story of Redemption. There is one intriguing correlation I want to highlight. From Stocktons dissertation similarities can be seen between two kings of different eras, which left their royal estates, yet, they remained very rich, and rich in a VERY different way. Here is an adaptation of some of Stocktons composition, which will help set the tone for the entire Epic Sacrifice study. It begins with a royal robed lord who wore a crown heavy with diamonds and precious stones who lived in a rather unlikely place for a king. His estate was located in a cleared space amidst a hill thick with woods in Point Breeze, Bordentown New Jersey. The exalted personage was not officially a king when he lived in New Jersey, but he had been a king. He was Joseph Bonaparte, lawyer, diplomat, soldier and the eldest brother of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. After conquering many nations of Europe, Napoleon replaced its former kings with new sovereigns from his own family and Joseph was one of them. Josephs history as a king was not always a favorable one. He first took up a throne in Naples of Italy. Under his brothers orders He lived and reigned in Naples as king for some time but to no success; he knew the people did not want him as their monarch. Then Napoleon sent him to Spain. But again he encountered equal failure; the people of Spain did not welcome this new king and rose up in rebellion against him causing him to take flight from Spain. These along with a few untimely adventures in France and Switzerland did not make for a good start for his attempted regal occupation. At that point he had no desire to ever again live and rule as king in the same manner as he did before. In time, Napoleons reign came to an end. To escape being exiled to a most undesirable place such as Elba (an island of Italy) like his brother Napoleon, Joseph determined to get to America. Under disguise he voyaged thousands of miles across the turbulent and tempestuous Atlantic in a small two hundred-tone vessel. Even the captain did not recognize him. Before leaving, his wife fell ill. Under the orders of physicians she was advised to stay back in Italy. His two daughters however, accompanied him and stayed with him for some time in his new home in New Jersey. Before his flight, he also stashed away the crown of Spain and the regal robes of Italy and brought them with him.

Now that he was well out of Europe, Joseph Bonaparte gave up all idea of returning, and in deciding to settle here it was not surprising that he chose to make his home in New Jersey. He bought a place near Bordentown, on a high wooded hilland built a house. It had grand halls and staircases and banquet halls His estate, which covered more than a thousand acres, was beautifully laid out in drives and gardens and lawnsthe place was arranged in a style of beauty and grandeur..he lived in ex-regal style. - Frank R Stockton, A Jerseyman And His Royal Crown

Jewels, gold, crowns. Are the things generally associated with royalty: but what about Joseph Bonapartes character? It was not perfect. Yet there are however, marked parallels between the story of the ex- Spanish, ex-Italian king who for a time laid aside his royal robe and glorious crown and another man two thousand years ago who laid aside His even more exalted royal robe and glorious crown. Here are some examples. J. Bonaparte (J.B.) loved children. He would allow them to run around on his estate and often serve them drinks and give them special treats. In winter they would skate on his frozen ponds and always have surprises for them. Jesus also was a lover of children. He gave time and devotion to them. J.B. came close to people. Kings have a habit of distancing themselves from commoners but exking J.B. was hospitable to his neighbors, sending flowers and fruits from his garden and in this way won their hearts and affections. It was not until he stepped down to their level and walked in their shoes that he was accepted and loved by them. Heavens majestic king was thoughtful, courteous and kind in His Galilean neighborhood. He graced the tables of social gatherings mingling freely with the people. Through friendship and loving interest and by UNCOMPROMISINGLY stepping down to their level and walking in their shoes Heavens ex-commander and highly honored King won the love, affection and trust of many. And this is the very correlation I want to emphasize There is no record of Jesus plucking orchid fruits or flowers from His garden and sending them to His neighbors, as did J.B., but being a carpenter He may have given furniture to the needy. As a river or fountain of life receives from a larger source and flows out again, the Son of God took to give. Whatever He received from His Father, He gave - which was far more than something His rugged hands had carefully crafted from prize timber in His humble little workshop, and yet something far more than J.B. could ever possibly give.

What did the Son of man give? He gave love, forgiveness, liberty, life, joy, emotional healing/security and physical health to the ailing. For one example, in preventing the embarrassment of the wedding host, He turned water into the best wine (Isa 65:8). It was in love and respect to His mother that He provided this unfermented sparkling crimson beverage for the continued refreshment for the guests. On occasions He provided nourishment for the hungry, He taught, He preached, He forgave, He exposed but He blessed, He liberated, He inspired, He encouraged, He picked up the downcast, lifted up the downtrodden, released the oppressed or possessed, transformed hearts and revolutionized lives. He gave of Himself.

J.B. drew people to him through his association, thoughtfulness and kindness. The Son of God drew people to Him through the cords of love.

For whatever reason, J.B. was rejected as king in both Madrid and Naples. Despite all the good that Jesus did, He was despised and rejected of men - forsaken by His own people. (A prophet is not honored in his own country Matt 13:57.) The ex-Spanish and ex-Italian king in voyaging from Europe to America did not do so in regal majesty, and splendor but at a calculated risk of losing his life by sea or by sword. He left in disguise. At the time when God sent His only begotten into the world, the eternal Son of God bid farewell good-bye to His Father and angel friends at heavens royal palace. In the event of descending to earth He voyaged across the dark stormy seas in His turbulent life at the risk of losing far, far more than Bonaparte could ever possibly loose. In His humanity, Christs glory was veiled; He disguised Himself in the likeness of men. As the captain of the boat did not recognize the royal brother of Napoleon, the Jewish leaders did not recognize, at least outside of the mock trial before the cross, heavens royal dignity that once shared His Almighty Fathers scepter and throne (Phil 2:7; John 1:10-11). As J.B. was once rejected as king, the Son of God was once shamefully mocked, scourged and spat upon. and rejected as King. These are a few less than perfect parallels between the two monarchs: Now, from the words of Stockton, here is an obvious contrast that sets Jesus apart from J.B.
It generally happens, when a sovereign is obliged to abdicate and to fly from his kingdom, that he arranges matters so that he shall not become a pauper when he arrives at the place of refuge. If he is not able to carry away anything more than a valise, he is much more likely to put his royal jewels into it than to fill it up with night clothes and hairbrushes; so when Bonaparte came to New Jersey, he came as a very rich man. Jerseyman And His Royal Crown - Frank R Stockton, A

This is exactly what Joseph did. Moreover, when the building of his mansion was complete, he arranged for beautiful paintings of high value and costly sculptures to be shipped from Europe. This would further add to the wealth of his American estate. Christ came with nothing but possessed everything. Prior to entering our fallen world, the Father did not assign angels to somehow prevent Jesus poverty. They did not prearrange and pack a treasure chest with gold, silver and most costly jewels and secretly stash it in the earth in a secluded place near Galilee for Jesus to simply uncover and draw from in difficult times of need. Otherwise it may be said Jesus had privileges the poor didnt have and therefore would have failed as a perfect example. Jesus willingly chose to endure hardship, poverty, trial and difficulty during the days of His flesh. He came with nothing, He owned next to nothing. He was the son of poor Galilean parents. Upon his birth, instead of bringing a lamb for sacrifice, Joseph and Mary could barely afford two turtle doves for an offering according to the law of the Lord (Lev 14:22; Luke 2:24). As it turned out, unlike J.B. who lived in a New Jersey mansion estate, Jesus had no permanent dwelling. In coming to our world, in His youth He learned the humble trade of carpentry and he didnt own much. On the other hand, when J.B. came to New Jersey, he came a very rich man - with immense wealth to spare. But get this. After Jesus betrayal, infamous trial and death, and resurrection, a company of angels escorted Him back to the indescribable Paradise Palace to be reunited with His Father. He also took a multitude of released captives as trophies with Him. These were the firstfruits of them that slept (1 Cor 15:20,23), they are His peculiar treasure, His precious jewels, raised by His resurrection power awakened from their long sleep in their graves (Mal 3:17; Prov 7:20; Psm 135:4). In this sense when Jesus entered, not New Jersey, but New Jerusalem, the city of the great King, He entered as the King of Kings and Lord of lords. In other words, He moved into the glorious and eternal New Jerusalem as a very rich man (Rev 21:7; 21:10-25).

Furthermore, significantly different to J.B., He NOW has immense unfading wealth to share. While on earth, Jesus did not seek security by living in ease in an immaculate guarded estate or seek value from earthly kingdoms and treasure. For Him, knowing He was His Fathers beloved Son was enough. His value was invested in His Fathers kingdom consisting of a relational economy - a kingdom founded upon the principles of other-centered love, love expressed in moral character (1 Cor 13). His joy was in imparting heavens incorruptible currency - the gold of faith and love tried in the fire, and in redeeming fallen sons and daughters of Adam and restoring them back into Gods image for the eternal kingdom of Glory. A king is the lawmaker. Every kingdom has a king and a law. The kings role is to make law and enforce justice and to judge and make decisions between right and wrong. No other king in history demonstrated the principles of his government as well as Gods Son. The Son of God, the giver of the law to Moses at Sinai, when He was made flesh mercifully lived and breathed the law. He, the law personified was, and indeed still is, the walking, feeling, living, hearing, seeing, law of God showing us how to live successfully and happily. Jesus is willing to share His heavenly treasure. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. 2 Cor 8:9 Unlike most monarchs who avoid mingling with common folk, J.B. was remembered as a king who stepped down to their level. And although, understandably, with no religious profession, he was not always the most moral person in the world, he was certainly generous. Jesus said If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? Matt 7:11 Interestingly, as it turned out the life of J.B. came to an end at age 76 in July of 1844. It so happens that this was the very year the Judgment ministry of Christ - the believers great judge priest-king - began. He entered into the Holy of Holies to receive a kingdom commencing the great work of investigative judgment (Dan 7:13,14; Matt 22:1-14; 1 Pet 4:17). While one king l(J.B.) laid aside his royal robe and crown entering the dusty prison to join the dead, the other Christ the anointed eternal Priest-King-Judge, laid aside his plain linen dress for the first apartment ministration. Around 1800 years later He then took up His most glorious kingly crown and donned on His golden priestly garments to enter the final ministration of the Most Holy Place to judge the living and the dead! (See the shadowy types in Ex 28:4-43; 1 Chron 6:49; Acts 10:42) In remarkable humiliation and clothed in sackcloth, the king of Nineveh laid his [royal] robe aside, and along with the Ninevites repented at the preaching of Jonah. In view of the investigative judgment, and in view of other approaching judgments, we are moved by the convicting Spirit to humble repentance. Then we can rise in newness of life, clothed in His rich robes of righteousness to proclaim the message of His eternal kingdom. Prior to the incarnation, in other-centered love for humanity, the Son of God laid aside His majestic garments in order to tabernacle among men. He later laid aside His plain outer garments (John 13:4,5) to wash the disciples feet thus they had a visual demonstration of humility. In coming down to our level His purpose is to save and serve. Likewise by being filled with the spirit of Christs other-centered love and humility we have the honor to daily lay aside our garments, garments of pride and exclusivity in order to seek, save and serve according to

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our God-given ability IN HIS POWER and grace. This is our high calling. This is our entrusted commission. Then it can be said of us, Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that we should show forth the praises of him who hath called[us] out of darkness into his marvellous light 1 Pet 2:9. Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Matt 25:23

Emptied Himself. Laid Aside - exactly what?

In writing to the Philippians the apostle Paul in the original Greek translation made a profound statement referring to the incarnation. This is how The New King James Version renders Phil 2:511. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself [literally emptied Himself] of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Phil 2:511 (Bracketed comments added) Well now briefly examine two Greek words contained in those passages. So please hang in there because this little exercise in Greek wont take long! MADE = Emptied: In the Strongs Concordance (Hebrew and Greek dictionary) the word made comes from a Greek word meaning to empty or make empty. A number of translations more accurately render the word for made in Phil 2:7 as emptied as does the Hebrew Names Version. It reads, Have this in your mind, which was also in Messiah Yeshua, who, existing in the form of God, didn't consider it robbery to be equal with God, but emptied himself... Phil 2:6-7 Hebrew Names Version HUMBLED: The other word in the passage that is also significant revealing the kind of attitude the son of man possessed is humbled. The Concordance lists definitions for the original Greek word for humbled in verse 8 as follows to make low, bring low; to level, reduce to a plain metaph. to bring into a humble condition, reduce to meaner circumstances to assign a lower rank or place to; 2) to abase to be ranked below others who are honoured or rewarded to humble or abase myself by humble living to lower, depress of one's soul bring down one's pride to have a modest opinion of one's self to behave in an unassuming manner. devoid of all haughtiness

We recognize the son of mans life was characterized by these traits. They were the EXACT

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opposite in character to the proud self-centered character of Satan, and, the corresponding characteristics of his apostate followers. In covetousness and selfish pride, Satan, and many church leaders, magnify and exalt themselves in a desire to ascends while Christ on the other hand, emptied Himself, and in humility condescends!!! Christ then poured out, or emptied Himself of everything that would prevent him from doing all those things that are necessary for accomplishing the plan of salvation. (See Isa 14:12-14; Rev 18:7; 2 Thess 2:4; Dan 8:10,11,25; 9:26) From Michael to Marys womb From King to servant From Savior to Sacrifice: Lets consider this word emptied. To empty something infers a transfer. Similarly, when Christ emptied Himself, He essentially went from one place to another. (From heaven to our world.) Even more specifically, He mysteriously relocated from one habitation, as glorious Michael, to another habitation, and to the amazement and astonishment of angels, that place was a tiny embryo located in Marys womb! He, the sinless one, poured Himself out of His heavenly existence into a body that His Father chose and prepared for Him. And get this. It was a body from the great web of fallen humanity! He was made of a woman, made under the law of fallen heredity. (See Gal 4:4; Heb 10:5; Rom 1:3,4; 8:3; Heb 2:14-18). It was the spiritual aspect of Michael (the mind, character, divinity, identity) that was transferred and impregnated into Mary. The divine sinless one clothed His divinity with humanity. The two natures were mysteriously blended. So the Father gave His only begotten eternal Son to us as heavens greatest gift. And not only that, throughout boyhood and manhood Jesus, lived to bless others. He poured out grace into their hearts. This is illustrated in the parable Jesus presented of the Good Samaritan that actually represents Himself! (Luke 10: 29-35). As far as we know, from the context of the whole story, there was no limit to the degree of help the Good Samaritan was willing to give to help the beaten up man (v.35). When Jesus saw the beaten abused and neglected man He was touched with sympathy and knew what it would have felt like to be in his shoes. He came down to his level, laying aside His robe and bound up his wounds pouring in oil and wine Binding up the wounds signifies His work of binding up the broken hearted. (Isa 61:1-3). Pouring in oil signifies the impartation of the Holy Spirit (His spiritual life) to the spiritually wounded (Luke 10:34) Scripture seems to indicate that the unfermented wine represents both the pure doctrinal truth (which Christ pours into our soul) and life and forgiveness through His New Covenant cleansing blood for the remission of sins (Song 5:1; 8:2; Joel 2:19,24; 3:18; Isa 29:9,10; 55:1; Matt 26:26-28; Gen 35:14; Ex 29:40). And this is where our focus in this study will be. Christ in you the hope of glory. Christ, represented here as the Good Samaritan, pours His life and truth into our dependent fallen nature. He dwelt among men demonstrating how to live and the kind of mind/attitude we should cultivate. As the good Samaritan paid the Innkeeper to take care of the wounded beaten up man, whatever it cost, Christ has entrusted His church as Innkeepers to care for the spiritually wounded and beaten, while He heals and restores. Heres a quote a friend shared with me that further illustrates this. For Eternal Life is Knowing The ONLY TRUE GOD and Jesus Christ, Whom HE has sent. And the best way to give His Gift of Eternal Life, The Word of Life, is through The Gift of giving Himself, or pouring out and emptying Himself into those, who would receive Him. He gave Himself also to those, who would mishandle Him, to the point of death (to themselves), even the death on the cross that all, who choose to receive Him, might be raised up with Him at His second coming. personal email dialogue, 2011 Christ emptied Himself or you could say poured Himself (His mind, divine identity and Spirit) into the flesh of men. Phil 2:7 indicates how Christ laid aside His visible divine splendor and majesty IN THIS PROCESS of the incarnation. He humbled Himself. And this is the mind WE are to sink ourselves into and cultivate! Christ received to give. Each evening or morning His humanity was recharged with the vital current of Heaven, daily He communed with His Father and received a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In addition to this He was touched and refreshed by the little courtesies and favors done to Him by His friends.

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Good Samaritan

Rich in grace, not earthly gold, A monarch rejected, but truth is now told, A man full of love, what glory and grace to behold Heavens King and commander from the thrones above Is kind to the ones needing to be loved Including the wounded, the broken and oppressed To give them hope and a future with the faithful and blessed. The sovereign of heaven left His throne and crown Risking His life for those of little renown. Heres one example of His love divine Where His heart on earth was bound with yours and mine. This heaven-borne Samaritan the Jews despised Couldnt leave to perish the man misfortune placed before their eyes Yet in strange indifference they passed by on the other side To the watching angels wonder and surprise. But another stooping low on the path they crossed, Drew a little closer to the man suffering loss He saw He discerned His pain and shock Into the wounds He poured oil and wine, Not for one moment thinking t was a waste of time, Sealing with oil and the other combined He knew after a while hed recover and revive

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Tenderly placing him on his nearby beast That could sense and feel this mans relief. He carried him on under the dim-lit moon To the city in the dark that they would meet very soon. When to the safety of an Inn they arrived, Approaching the Innkeeper with pleading eyes, The Good Samaritan said; Take care of him, provide his meals, His comfort and lodging until he is healed. No matter kind friend whatever it costs Ill gladly repay your expenses youll suffer no loss. You see I am a king although dressed as any man With a heart that feels and caring hands. I am on a journey and giving you a gentle command But you are free to reject or follow my stand. But I tell you my friend, when I return, abundantly Ill repay, Well done faithful servant gladly Ill say. We are the city; we are the Innkeepers for the wounded outside With the reflection of the Good King in our hearts and eyes. We care for the needy, the broken the lost, The despised and rejected whatever the cost. Love pure and divine, strong and true, Our King has revealed the work for me and you, That angels in our place would long do.

Jeff Wilson

In following Christs example we ALSO are commissioned and privileged to empty ourselves, pour out and give of ourselves to others, to esteem [them] better than ourselves and to put ourselves in other peoples shoes. (Phil 2:3; Jer 48:11) Because to love God with all our soul, mind and strength AND our neighbor (anyone we come in contact with) as ourselves is the fulfilling of the law of Christ (James 2:8; Gal 6:2; Luke 10:27). In giving we must also receive. Our spiritual and emotional love tank is to be refilled with the Holy presence of the divine Comforter each day. We need each other to love and be loved also. An informed and intelligent comprehension of the cross actually empowers and transforms the truly converted born again believer to NATURALLY love and serve (2 Cor. 3:18; 5:14, 2 Cor. 4: 712, See COL 312). The apostle Paul admonishes us, let this mind be in you as was also in Christ Jesus who being in the form of God [in mind, heart, character, purpose and nature] emptied Himself even [to] the death of the cross How? By walking in our shoes and becoming a humble servant to humanity! As Christ the last Adam empties His divine spiritual life into consecrated born again believers through the Holy Spirit (2 Pet 1:4; 1 Cor 15:45), we although not exactly the same way, are to empty ourselves into the needs of humanity in service, love and kindness and Jesus says, give [of yourselves] and it shall be given unto you in a good measure! With Christ dwelling inside us we (His church-body) are the light of the world,

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cities in the worlds dark night (the church is a beacon of truth throwing light against falsehood and error), the salt of the earth and rooted and grounded in love we are fruit bearing trees of righteousness for the blessing of humanity. (1 Tim 3:16; 2 Cor 4:11; Jer 48:11; Luke 6:38; Matt 5:14; Isa 61:1-3) Firstly, Christ poured Himself out from the heavenly body of visibly majestic Michael into baby Jesus. Secondly He poured out His love, compassion and healing grace into the lives of men and women. He was a servant of servants. This was illustrated during His few remaining days on earth while He was with His disciples celebrating the Passover. While they were contending for the highest place, to their wonder and surprise, He laid aside His outer garments, and in love stooped down low and performing the task of a servant, began to wash their feet (Matt 18:1-5). Thirdly, His ultimate self-emptying was at the cross. Here He poured Himself out completely. The prophet Isaiah wrote the astonishing words that He poured out His soul [life] unto death!!!! (Isa 53:12) The drink offerings in the Hebrew sacrificial economy were faint shadows of the selfemptying principle. In realization and expectation of Christs approaching death, Mary poured out her precious ointment upon Christs head and hair (Matt 26:7). The broken alabaster box was a token of Christs brokenness in death, which Mary believed would come about and in tears and whole-hearted love and devotion, she couldnt hold back in anointing His body beforehand prior to His burial (Matt 26:12). There is another lesson to be learned with the broken alabaster box, As the alabaster box was broken, and filled the whole house with its fragrance, so Christ was to die, His body was to be broken; but He was to rise from the tomb, and the fragrance of His life was to fill the earth. Christ "hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor." Eph. 5:2, DA p 563 The act of Christ in laying aside His outer garments and pouring out His fragrant love demonstrated to others the man that He really was. Compassionate. Thoughtful. Giving. And this natural character of self-emptying was carried on well after His death. And after Christs resurrection He kept self-giving. Instead of taking celestial flight back to the security and glory of heaven, He lingered around for forty days ministering and speaking of things pertaining to the kingdom of God. (See Acts 1:3) After His final ascension, glorification and coronation in heaven, when the [fiftieth] day of Pentecost had fully come, He poured out the Holy Spirit (His Spiritual life/breath) without measure symbolized by fire as His crowning gift upon His church-bride. (John 20:22; John 14:18,23, 28; Matt 28:18,20; 1 Cor 15:45; John 6:63; Acts 2:1-4,17,18; 10:45; Prov 1:23; Isa 43:3; 45:8; Zec 12:10. Comp. Job 29:6 with Zec 4:11,12) So far we have considered what Christs manifold self-emptying means. Now in our study we want to move on and differentiate between the divine prerogatives Christ gave up (if we believe there were some He did give up) and the ones He retained during the days of His flesh. In view of a few Bible texts there are some that hold the position that in addition to laying aside His former (visible) glory, royal majesty, and splendor, that Christ in assuming our human nature laid aside ALL His natural divine attributes and only retained His divine character. Is that true? It is thought that He laid aside His divinely inherited omniscience (all knowingness), omnipotence (all powerfulness) omnipresence (ability to be everywhere present) and original un-borrowed divine immortal life. But did He? According to Scripture and inspiration, aside from what happened at Calvary, there are very strong indications that there was only one of these 4 attributes that the Son of God laid aside - and that was only TEMPORARILY and only by default! That attribute was omnipresence. For example: encumbered about with the personality of humanity, Christ could not possibly have been in Galilee, England, Switzerland, Germany, China, Australia, New Zealand and America, as it then was, at the same time. At least there is no record in Scripture. Otherwise how could He be our example? We need to remember, Jesus revealed no qualities, and exercised no powers, [in His own behalf See quote below] that men may not have through faith in Him. His perfect humanity is that which all His followers may possess, if they will be in subjection to God as He was. DA p.664 (Bracketed comments and emphasis added) He endured every trial to which we are subject. And He exercised in His own behalf no power that is not freely offered to us. As man, He met temptation, and overcame in the strength given Him from God. DA 24 (Emphasis added)

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And this statement would not hold true if He had omnipresent ability WHILE on earth. This will be discussed a lot further in the 3-fold Omni Paradox study. Therefore in this respect, there was a tremendous degree of limitation that the son of man subjected Himself to in assuming our human nature. But it is important we dont take things further here. You will see that Christ laid aside by veiling His former indescribable splendor, majesty and relinquished His omnipresence but as we will explore from this study and the following one, there seems to be evidence from both Scripture and the S.O.P. that He did not give up His other three divine attributes (omniscience, omnipotence and immortality) exclusively unique to Him. Yet He still perfectly qualified as our fair example. At the cross, and not before, Christ willingly gave up His immortal original un-borrowed life, which had it not been for the resurrection, would have also meant automatically giving up (loosing) the other two divine attributes. To many minds the death of Christ is a mystery. But does it have to be? Either Jesus died completely or He did not die. Therefore, note carefully; given the fact in order to qualify as our Savior and substitute, ample evidence indicates He must, and did, completely die like others that have died before Him. Therefore any Scripture, or inspired quotation that APPEARS to suggest the Son of God did not truly die, needs further exploration and prayerful review. Before we move on and ponder the question of Christs omnis and more details regarding the nature of the Son of Gods death, we need paint a general background by taking our minds way, way back to what Christ originally possessed in a world of indescribable glory (STC p.13). Then in looking at this broader picture on this canvass, we can consider what Christ laid aside in relation to His incarnation, life and ministry and eventual death. Like a precious jewel in its golden setting, Christs Sacrifice of epic proportion will become the focal point of the overall redemptive picture and something of beautiful mysterious attraction. We will behold Christs incarnation, selfless life, self-sacrifice and triumph in death, mans salvation and the Son of Gods glorification. Who is Wisdom? Few Christians would argue that before the incarnation the heavenly pre-existent Christ (symbolically named Michael (One like God) the Prince of life, the prince of the kings of the earth Dan 10:21; Acts 3:15; Rev 1:5) possessed divine immortal life, glory, honor, power and majesty long before the creation of the universe. He was the brightness [splendor] of [the Fathers] glory and the express image (Heb 1:3) of His personality (Heb 1:3). The Father and beloved Son were two in individuality, yet little short of being identical (YI December 16, 1897, par. 5.) Solomon describes the relationship between Michael/Wisdom/the Son of God and His Father long ago. (Micah 5:2; Dan 3:25; Prov 30:4; Matt 22:45; John 8:57,58; John 1:1-8; Heb 1:1-3) Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength [Wisdom is one of the names given to the pre-existent Son of God, see Matt 11:19.b; 1 Cor 1:24, 30] The LORD possessed me [Wisdom] in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world. When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him. Prov 8: 14, 22 30 (Bracketed comments supplied. See the first chapter of P.P.) The pre-existent Son of God was the closest friend to His Father. The Father possessed wisdom from the beginning. In the Strong's Hebrew and Greek dictionary the word possessed matches the Hebrew ( qanah) literally meaning bought buy purchased and interestingly gotten. The word gotten is used in Gen 4:1 when Eve begat her first son. Although the Father

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possessed wisdom He did not possess (own/control) a Son. Rather, He begat or brought forth a Son from the days of eternity (Greek family origin Micah 5:2) so far back beyond any human computation before the world was formed. Everyday His only begotten Son was the Fathers daily delight. Among other names, the divine Son is named Wisdom because He possessed His Fathers character. He was brimming with absolute counsel, wisdom, knowledge understanding, ((omniscience), 1 Chron 16:9; Prov 15:3), and strength (omnipotence), was everywhere present (omnipresence); see Gen 1:2; Psm 139:1-13; Isa 63:9; 2 Cor 3:17; John 4:24; 2 Pet 1:21. Moreover, He possessed immortal life. All these attributes were inherited from the Father (John 5:26). As was said and as we will explore further on in this study in more detail, at the cross, and NOT BEFORE, the Son of God had to lay down His immortality for a very specific reason - to die AS US and in our place. (2 Cor 5:14, 21) Now we will contemplate the two monumental attributes the Son of God laid aside in mysteriously blending the divine nature with the human one of these attributes sooner, the other later in His life. We will discover four (4) divine attributes the Son of God retained and yet for the most part of His life kept veiled/hidden. This was until He was anointed with power for ministry (Isa 60:1-4; Matt 3:16-17). It was then that He naturally and easily employed those miraculous powers for specific purposes like in dealing with sin and hypocrisy, ministering to human needs and relieving suffering, which gave evidence of His divinity as the Son of God. (See Matt 9:8).

1. Laid Aside His Outward Majestic Glory

(Poured Out From Majestic Heavenly Michael Into the Embryo in a womb of a young Israelite named Mary!)

As the high priest laid aside his pontifical dress, and officiated in the white linen dress of a common priest, so Christ emptied Himself, and took the form of a servant, and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest, Himself the victim. As the high priest, after performing his service in the holy of holies, came forth to the waiting congregation in his pontifical robes, so Christ will come the second time clothed in glorious garments of the whitest white, "such as no fuller on earth can whiten them." He will come in His own glory, and in the glory of His Father, as King of kings and Lord of lords, and all the angelic host will escort Him on His way {1BC 1111.5}.

From the comprehensive quote above, we can see Christ laid aside His glorious garments (pontifical robes, reflective of His majesty and splendor Phil 2:5-7) He spiritually poured Himself out from majestic Michael into fallen humanity and officiated as a sympathetic human/divine priest (Phil 2:6,7) and offered Himself a sacrifice. He ascended to do His priestly work in the first apartment (Dan 12:5-7) until 1844 when He entered the Holiest of all. After Christ finishes performing His service in the Holy of Holies He will come a second time in glorious kingly garments of whitest white, (signifying His incorruptible reinstated divine-human form) and in His own glory, AND the glory of His Father, as King of kings and Lord of lords (See Heb 9:28; Rev 19:12,16) It must have been a very severe ordeal for our Saviour to lay aside His royal robe, His kingly crown, [He left] His high command and clothed His divinity with humanity that He might meet man where he was and for our salvation

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*assumed human nature. - {Synthesized from: The Watchmen; SW, September 24, 1907 pa. 2}; 1 SM 243 and {RH, September 26, 1907 par. 6} (*assumed = take on, adopt)

Although we are not going to give attention to the Holy angels in this study, it might be worth briefly noting the fact that Gods Son somewhat resembled them. Thats why He is referred to a number of times in Old Testament Scripture as the angel [messenger] of the Lord and the archangel (chief among the angels [messengers].) However, unlike the angels Christ was not created. In fact, He created them! Scripture presents many examples of where Christ appeared to patriarchs and prophets in the form of a man or angel. For example: the accounts of Abraham and Sarah, Hagar, Jacob, Moses, Balaam, Gideon, Manoah, David, Joshua, and others (See: Gen. 16:7-9; 22:11,15; Ex. 3:2; Num. 22:32; Judges 6:12,21-22; 13:15-21; Zech. 3:1-7; etc.). The encounters Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua had with the angel of the Lord are worth noticing. Christ was the angel of His [Fathers] presence that saved them (Isa 63:9.) (Compare with Psm 139:7,8 and Psm 51:11). The following is Daniels description of the preexistent Christ. (Compare it with Johns similar description in Rev 1:12-17)
And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the side of the great river, which is Hiddekel; Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of *lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude. And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves. Dan 10:4-7 (*Note: Angels are often described as of lightening appearance. (Eze 1:14; Matt 28:3. Comp Matt 24:27 with 25:31)

So this gives us a window into the nature of the glory Christ before He pitched His tabernacle among men. Similar to the angels, Christs appearance was bright, majestic and exceedingly beautiful. Lucifer the leading angel, was originally created and given an exalted position as: the sharer of God's glory in heaven, and second to Jesus in power and majesty. In the words of inspiration he is described as the one who "sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty." (Bible Echo; November 1, 1892; par. 3). "Had not the Lord made the covering cherub so beautiful, so closely resembling his own image; had not God awarded him special honor; had anything been left undone in the gift of beauty and power and honor, then Satan might have had some excuse." (General Conference Daily Bulletins; March 2, 1897; par.34)

Yet we need to recognize the Son of God gave up more than His inherited splendor and beauty. He gave up His royal majesty and kingly throne!!! He laid aside the heavenly honor and glory. He laid off His glorious diadem and royal robe, and left the royal courts, in order that He might come to earth to save fallen man - RH Nov 26th 1895 Christ, the loved Commander in the heavenly courts, stooped from His high estate, laid aside the glory that He had with the Father, in order to save the one lost world. For this He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninety and nine that loved Him, and came to this earth, to be "wounded for our transgressions" and "bruised for our iniquities." (Isa. 53:5.) God gave Himself in His Son that He might have the joy of receiving back the sheep that was lost. COL 191 He was all the while as God, but He did not appear as God. He veiled the demonstrations of Deity, which had commanded the homage, and called forth the admiration, of the universe of God. He was God while upon earth, but He divested

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Himself of the form of God, and in its stead took the form and fashion of a man. He walked the earth as a man. For our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. He laid aside His glory and His majesty. He was God, but the glories of the form of God He for a while relinquished. {5BC 1126.8}

There was another reason why the Son of God veiled His outward visible majestic glory. He could not display His heavenly glory on earth because when Jesus came to our lost world He and His Father well understood that there needed to be a veiling. They knew that He could not come like an angel of light. Therefore,
That we might behold it and not be destroyed, the manifestation of His glory was shrouded. His divinity was veiled with humanity, -- the invisible glory in the visible human form. {DA 23.1}

Scripture reveals that the brightness of one angel at the empty tomb of Christ was so intense that the Roman guard fell powerless to the ground. (Matt 28:1-4). Fallen beings cannot endure the glory of undisguised/unveiled heavenly angels and neither could they have endured to look upon the Son of the living God had He come in the glory of an angel. The contrast would be too painful; mortals would be overwhelmed and extinguished by the brightness. That is why when the Son of God appeared to Moses at Sinai, Moses could not directly look upon Him. Thou canst not see my face and live referring to the majesty and glory of the Son of Gods presence (See Ex 33:18-23)

What did Christ Lay Aside?

In connection with a half a dozen misunderstood texts, it appears many read Phil 2:7 and assume Christ emptied Himself of His omnipotence, omniscience and His original, immortal, un-borrowed divine (begotten) life. Is this true? With Phil 2:7 in mind, notice what the Spirit of Prophecy says regarding the nature of Christs self-emptying. And if you follow closely the quotes suggest that it was not scaling down in the personage, character, divine power, uniqueness or other personal qualities that consisted in Christs self-emptying experience. Rather it was purely a change of location, a change of habitation which nevertheless was a monumental change.
He emptied Himself of His high prerogatives, left His mansions of glory, His throne and high command, and became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich - April 22nd 1897 Jesus emptied Himself, and in all that He did self did not appear...Human nature is ever struggling for expression, ready for contest; but he who learns of Christ is emptied of self, of pride, of love of supremacy, and there is silence in the soul. {MYP 162.2} For our sake Jesus emptied Himself of His glory; He clothed [veiled] His divinity with humanity that He might touch humanity (ST April 18, 1892). {7BC 927.1} Bracketed comment added The whole world was His, but so completely did He empty Himself that during His ministry He declared, "Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head" [Heb. 2:14-18 quoted] (MS 76, 1903). {7BC 904.7}

In summary: The Son of God (Michael) gave up His throne. He left behind His former position
of indescribable glory in self-emptying by pouring His mind, Spirit, divinity and identity into a body of flesh. He poured Himself out from heaven into a tiny baby under the care of a lower-class family to later become a despised, rejected, accused, persecuted and derided homeless man. He who jointly owned the riches of heaven and created and jointly owned other worlds, self-emptied of the right to occupy even a humble earthly abode!!!

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Christs glorious exalted position among the angels and royal estate in heaven is what Ellen White refers to as His divine prerogatives which, in love for man, He left behind and risked losing for eternity. In becoming incarnate He simply could not bring those things into the world with Him. To Him, His relationship and friendship with His Father, His glory and the salvation of precious souls were more important than this heavenly wealth, mansions and privileges. As our example, the Son of God WAS indeed ALREADY completely emptied of self. There is a subtle difference. However it is important to note that it was not at all necessary for Him to empty Himself of what He was not naturally part of His nature or character. Not for one moment did self (selfishness) exist in Him. (John 8:46). There was no place for pride and neither did he contend for His rights. Thats why He could say, The prince of this world cometh and hath NOTHING [no selfishness, no pride or cherished sin etc.] in me (John 14:30). Ultimately trough the divine gospel seed we are to let this mind/attitude transform us by beholding Christ and in submission to Him allowing our mind to be blended with His mind, our heart to be merged with His heart, and His will to be united with His will for a sanctified life of self-giving and self-emptying.

From the following verse in John some mistakenly assume that Christ was powerless to perform divine miracles for the glory of God
Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. - John 8:28 "I do nothing of Myself," said Christ; "the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father." "I seek not Mine own glory," but the glory of Him that sent Me. John 8:28; 6:57; 8:50; 7:18. In these words is set forth the great principle which is the law of life for the universe. All things Christ received from God, but He took to give. So in the heavenly courts, in His ministry for all created beings: through the beloved Son, the Father's life flows out to all; through the Son it returns, in praise and joyous service, a tide of love, to the great Source of all. And thus through Christ the circuit of beneficence is complete, representing the character of the great Giver, the law of life. {DA 21.2}

By not yielding or indulging His own human will, by doing nothing of self-interest the Christ demonstrated the great law of life principle for the universe.
It is in neglecting to follow the exact directions of the word of God that many err. They turn away from God's plans, to follow their own ideas. Christ himself declared, "The Son of Man can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do; for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise." So utterly was he emptied of self that he made no plans for himself. He accepted God's plan for him, and day-by-day the Father unfolded his plans. If Jesus was so wholly dependent, declaring, "I do nothing of myself...{ST, November 21, 1892 par. 2}

In relation to John 5:30, some translations say the Son of God did nothing on His own. The greatest battle man will ever engage in is the battle against self and pride. And in taking on humanity although He was sinless and undefiled Jesus was not exempt from this battle either. Thats why He didnt follow the inclination of His own human will. Everything He did was with the Father by His side. Taking On Humanity: In taking on our human nature He was on probation. He did not follow His own inclinations and seek or follow His own will. He underwent an astounding change experiencing tremendous risk factors. God cannot be tempted . Michael in the heavenly courts could not be tempted either, yet condescending as the Son of man He certainly could. This is one reason He constantly depended upon His Father for grace and guidance!
"If Christ had been deceived by Satan's temptations and exercised His miraculous

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power to relieve Himself from difficulty he would have broken the contract made with His Father to be a probationer in behalf of the race" - RH April 1, 1875 (emphasis added)

The Son of Gods Dependence on the Father

I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. - John 5:30

The following quotation shows to what extent the Son of God would go in emptying Himself
"For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak." - John 7:49,50. Here we see the Son of God fully emptied Himself fully into His Fathers will

CHRISTS DIVINITY: THE RESULT OF HIS INHERITENCE AS THE ONLY ETERNAL SON OF GOD
For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form Col 2:9 NAS Satan had questioned whether Jesus was the Son of God. In his summary dismissal he had proof that he could not gainsay [argue with]. Divinity [brightness, splendor, glory] flashed through suffering humanity. Satan had no power to resist the command. Writhing with humiliation and rage, he was forced to withdraw from the presence of the world's Redeemer. {DA 130.3} (bracketed comments added) Christ had not exchanged his divinity for humanity; but he had clothed his divinity in humanity, and he gave Satan the evidence for which he had asked,-- showed him that he was the Son of God. Divinity flashed through humanity, and the evil one could not resist the authority of the divine voice {RH, October 29, 1895 par. 6} The law of God is set aside, the Spirit of grace despised, the blood of the covenant counted an unholy thing. The spirits deny the divinity of Christ, and place even the Creator on a level with themselves. {GC88 552.2} While upon this earth, the Son of God was the Son of man; yet there were times when His divinity flashed forth. Thus it was when He said to the paralytic: "Be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee." Matthew 9:2. {8T 202.1} CHRISTS DIVINITY CAN ALSO REFER TO HIS SINLESS CHARACTER (Heb 7:26; 1 Pet 2:22; Luke 23:4) At times Christs divinity flashed through humanity, and He stood forth as the Son of God, His veil of flesh too transparent to hide His majesty RH March 26, 1901

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In summary: The Son of God made no plans for Himself. He did not follow His own ideas. He did nothing independent of His Fathers will. When the Son of God said, I can do nothing of myself He was referring to the fact that He was not in a position to do anything to attract attention to Himself or to promote His own glory. His object on earth was to do the will of Him that sent Him. He was in continual submission to His Father. So far we have discussed the first example of contrast between the Son of God in heaven and the Son of God incarnate. As we continue, a 3-part pattern will begin to emerge consisting of what He was, what He left behind and humbly took upon Himself at great risk and what He took up again. (See Matt 4:1-6; Heb 4:15; Mark 14:36; 5 BC 1128.) We first need to understand how divinity relates to Christs Sonship with the Father as as can be seen from the quotations following on from here.

THE MORAL CHARACTER - HOLY SPIRIT - DIVINITY CONNECTION

If you were to do a word search for divinity and character or divinity and the Holy Spirit with Ellen Whites writings you would find dozens more references indicating the three words are closely associated and often used interchangeably. Here are a couple of examples Hid within Himself those all powerful attributes which belonged to Him as one equal with God. At times His divine character flashed forth with such wonderful power that all who were capable of discerning spiritual things pronounced Him the Son of God- 3 SP p. 259 In contrast to the evil Satanic treatment of Christ, His character (meekness and patience) and His identity as the Son of God was the substance of His divinity in contrast to mans evil. Notice when the wise men came into the house they
saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and *worshipped Him. (Matt 2:11. *See Matt 8:2; 9:18; 15:25) Beneath the lowly guise of Jesus, they [the wise men] recognized the presence of Divinity DA 63.2 (See Matt 2:11) Christ's enemies had demanded a miracle as evidence of His divinity. They had evidence far greater than any they had sought. His meekness and patience [divine character] exalt Jesus above humanity, and prove His kinship to God. D. A. p. 734. In His humanity, perfected by a life of constant resistance of evil, the Saviour showed that through co-operation with Divinity, human beings may in this life attain to perfection of character. AA p. 531 Man with his human nature becomes a partaker of divinity. Christ is honored in excellence and perfection of character. COL p. 102 The humanity of Christ has touched our humanity, and our humanity has touched divinity. Thus through the agency of the Holy Spirit man becomes a partaker of the divine nature [divine character] He is accepted in the Beloved. DA 675 (bracketed comments added) Christ's humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted for the conflict by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He came to make us partakers of the divine nature. So long as we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over us. God reaches for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast hold upon the divinity of Christ, that we may attain to perfection of character. DA 123

Jesus is the outshining [brightness KJV] of the Father's glory, "and the express image [Greek: (charaktr] of His person" - Hebrews 1:3 See ED 132. The Greek word for express image only
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used once in the entire Bible literally means character.

The Son of God was the brightness of His Fathers glory. The Greek word for brightness apaugasma is also used only once in the in the entire Bible and means, 1) reflected brightness a) of Christ in that he perfectly reflects the majesty of God. 2) effulgence a) shining forth, of a light coming from a luminous body b) out-raying. So much so that Christ and His Father, although two separate individuals, were almost identical in character.
From eternity there was a complete unity between the Father and the Son. They were two, yet little short of being identical; two in individuality, yet one in spirit, in heart and character YI December 16, 1897, par. 5.

Now we will ponder the event of Christs self-abnegating love in light of His cross. In summary: We have seen that prior to His incarnation the Son of God possessed great indescribable glory, splendor and majesty, was highly honored by His Father and exalted by the angels. In taking human nature He laid this aside, yet His divinity and deity was veiled under His common humanity. His perfect sinless character and full divinity gave evidence He was the Son of God. His divinity is our life (Col 3:4; 2 Tim 1:10) poured out into us through His Spirit. Through His Holy Spirit we become partakers of the divine nature. (2 Pet 1:4). We in turn become channels of blessing where living water flows forth. The diagram below presents the order of the 3 distinct and divine dispensations that provide a window to the plan of salvation, Christs divinity and glorification. ______________________________________________________________________________

1. MICHAEL THE PRE-EXISTENT SON IN THE HEAVENLY COURTS:

Inherited Divine Immortal Original Life, Possessed Majestic Brightness and Splendor. Received Exaltation, Honor, Glory and Praise _____________________________________________________________________

2. JESUS VOLUNTARY INCARNATION ON EARTH

Laid aside His former glory, exaltation, praise, splendor, honor and majesty. Veiled His all- powerful divine attributes of omniscience and omnipotence selflessly employing them ONLY on behalf of others for the glory of God and for the purpose of the kingdom. He naturally possessed divine immortal original life through His relationship to the Father but laid it down at the cross!!!

_____________________________________________________

3. POST- DEATH / RESURRECTION / CHRIST GLORIFIED:

Christs divine immortal life, power, glory and omniscience. Omnipresence, was reinstated to Him after His resurrection. In addition He is given a highly exalted name [God] above every name.

_____________________________________________________

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 Jesus birth was different to any other birth

Who among us has a heavenly pre-existence and was expressly born of the Holy Ghost? Who among us has inherited the nature and name God, been worshiped and adored by angels and lived 100% pure without sin? Who among us or has power to lay down their life and take it up again?

Jesus life was different to any other life

Jesus death was different to any other death

2. Calvary: When The Son of God Laid Down His immortal life
As in Holy Scripture there are a number of quotations in the Spirit of Prophecy that seem contradictory. Consider for example Ellen G. Whites 1 SM 301.1 statement "divinity did not die". On a surface level, when compared to some of her other quotations, this one APPEARS contradictory. But quotes like these, and other difficult Bible texts, are more like paradoxes than contradictions, and when understood correctly they reveal great hidden truth. So what did Ellen White mean when she said concerning the Son of Gods death, divinity did not die? Did she mean, because Jesus possessed divinity, He could not completely die? And if thats the case, did Jesus merely undergo a pseudo (makebelieve) death experience, where His physical body expired in death while His soul mysteriously lived to wing its way back to heaven? IF we take that position, then are we in danger of compromising our firmly held-to protestant belief of the non-immortality of the soul that rightly proposes when our body dies we die? (i.e. like an extended sleep). In taking the position that Christs death was only physical, is it possible we are inadvertently spiritualizing away truth? Do we take the Bible for what it reads by carefully comparing Scripture with Scripture? Firstly, in view of the word divinity that is key to this study, maybe we need to back up a little and ask what is divinity? According to the Strongs Concordance Hebrew and Jewish Dictionary divinity means godlike, divine, godhead, supreme, greatness, and, majesty. Lets think now about the association between Christs divinity and His death. Divine immortal life was bestowed back to Gods only begotten Son AFTER His death immediately AT His resurrection (Phil 3:21; 1 Cor 15:44,45.) In consistency as our example, before the cross Christ never worked a miracle on His own behalf. At the cross He proved that He had loved righteousness and hated iniquity (Heb 1:9). Thats when His victorious life was perfected (Luke 13:32). Now He could say, just as He prophesied earlier, Therefore does my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man takes it from me, but I lay I it down of myself. I have power [from my Father] to lay it down, and I have power to take it [receive it] again. This commandment have I received of my Father. John 10:17,18. (Bracketed comment added). We need to pause here for a moment to determine exactly what Jesus was 24

saying here. Therefore we need to understand what He meant by take it again because our understanding of these words will determine our understanding of this key text.
The word take has two Greek forms in this text. When Jesus says No man takes it from me the Greek word is Strong's #142 airo which is translated take up or take away. It is a unilateral action; a removal by one party without any associated transfer from another party. But when He says He will take it again John uses a different Greek word, Strong's #2983 labo, labein, elabon. Various forms of lambano which is translated as either take or receive because it is a reciprocal action. There is a transfer of something from a giver to a receiver. (Gary Hullquist, Theos Magazine Vol 2 p 12.)

In other words when Christ said I take it [my life] again He took back as He received it from His Father. The two unusual divine events concerning Christ in laying down His life and taking it again were nothing less than miraculous. His life was not merely a life that was taken but a life that was given. the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep (see John 10:11). His was no ordinary death. Men could destroy His human body but no man could destroy His divinity. Only the Son Himself of His own will had power [from His Father] to lay it down and power to take [labo receive] it again. But notice, according to verse 18, this miracle was not independent of the Father. It was ONLY because of the Fathers re-bestowal of life to the Son after He had been dead in the tomb, that the Son of God could say, I have power to take it again.
I am the resurrection, and the life (John 11:25). He who had said, I lay down my life, that I might take it again (John 10:17), came forth from the grave to life that was in Himself. Humanity died; divinity did not die. In His divinity, Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. He declares that He has life in Himself to quicken whom He will. {1SM 301.1}

After He cried with a loud voice, commended His spirit to His Father, He gave up the ghost. He slept unconsciously in Josephs tomb. Divinity did not die [the second eternal death], in the sense that the spirit of Jesus slept in the tomb with His body. - SP Vol 3 pp. 203,204. His sleeping form simply had to be reactivated and called forth from the tomb by His Father.
When the voice of the mighty angel was heard at Christ's tomb, saying, Thy Father calls Thee, the Saviour came forth from the grave by the life that was in Himself. Now was proved the truth of His words, "I lay down My life, that I might take it [receive it again] again. . . . I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again." Now was fulfilled the prophecy He had spoken to the priests and rulers, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." John 10:17, 18; 2:19. {DA 785.2} (Bracketed comment added)

Remember: Jesus was GIVEN all power from His Father Mat 28:18. The Son of God by the power of choice could lay down His life. But an important point needs to be made right here. We need to recognize that this was by no means an easy task. It was not a matter of waving a mystical wand and suddenly collapsing in some kind of charade-like death; it was not a sudden death like that of Ananias and Sapphira experienced. (Acts 5:5). It was not like an elderly person who lies down to sleep in a soft bed at night never to rise again until the resurrection. Laying down His life involved a tremendous struggle involving extreme mental and emotional suffering. This fact is indicated in the Garden of Gethsemane which we will revisit later.
Over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Christ had proclaimed in triumph, "I am the resurrection, and the life." These words could be spoken only by the Deity. All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are dependent recipients of the life of God. From the highest seraph to the humblest animate being, all are replenished from the Source of life. Only He who is one with God could say, I

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have power to lay down My life, and I have power to take it again. In His divinity, Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. {DA 785.3}

It was only in His divinity as the Son of God that Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. Christ, the eternal only begotten of the Father, directly inherited and possessed life and power more completely than any other creature. Apart from the preservation of Christs character and identity, if we hold that the Son of God did not FULLY AND COMPLETELY die at Calvary, but that it was only a human sacrifice like the martyrs, then we will have trouble trying to harmonize the above quotations with the following one.
Remember that Christ risked all; "tempted like as we are," he staked [risked] even his own eternal existence upon the issue of the conflict. Heaven itself was imperiled for our redemption. At the foot of the cross, remembering that for one sinner Jesus would have yielded up his life, we may estimate the value of a soul. {GCB, December 1, 1895 par. 22} (Emphasis added)

Christs divinity (character/identity) did not die the second death. It slept [indicating the 1st death] in the tomb with His dead body.
"When He (Jesus) closed His eyes in death upon the cross, the soul of Christ did not go . . . to heaven. . . . The spirit of Jesus slept in the tomb with His body, and did not wing its way to heaven, there to maintain a separate existence, and to look down upon the mourning disciples embalming the body from which it had taken flight. All that comprised the life and intelligence of Jesus remained with His body in the sepulchre; and when He came forth it was as a whole being; He did not have to summon His spirit from heaven. He had power to lay down His life and to take it up again.... It was no marvel to the heavenly host that He who controlled the power of death, and had life in Himself, should awaken from the sleep of the grave. But it was a marvel to them that their loved Commander should die for rebellious men." SP Vol 3 pp. 203,204 (emphasis added)

IMMORTALITY VERSUS AN INFINATE SACRFICE

They (Jewish priests) were not conscious that type had met anti-type, that an infinite sacrifice had been made for the sins of the world. D.A, p. 774.

When Christ laid down His precious life He not only laid down his human life but His divine life. He died not only as the son of man but He died as the only begotten Son of God! This is why Christs death is referred to by inspiration as an infinite sacrifice
the Lord of glory was dying, a ransom for the race. On yielding up His precious life, Christ was not upheld by triumphant joy. All was oppressive gloom The Saviour could not see through the portals of the tomb. Hope did not present to Him His coming forth from the grave a conqueror, or tell Him of the Father's acceptance of the sacrifice. He feared that sin was so offensive to God that their separation was to be eternal. D. A. p. 753.

C.S. Longacre points out

If it were true as some believe that Christs divinity was not surrendered and laid on the altar of sacrifice, and that He did not give His life back to God who gave Him life when He was begotten in the beginning, then Christs fears were entirely ungrounded, when he feared that sin was so offensive to God that their separation was to be eternal. C.S. Longacre 1947, p. 7, The Deity of Christ

If Christ failed to endure the test before Him, if He had yielded to the tempters subtlety and constant assaults by retaliation or escape, then He risked nothing but His humanity and could have ascended back to His glorious former estate as the exalted majesty in heaven with the Father. But the Spirit of Prophecy states, 26

Remember that Christ risked all. For our redemption; heaven itself was imperiled. - C. O. L. p. 198.

Christ risked all with the chance of eternal separation from the long intimate and strong relationship with the Father. This was not the kind of death that involved merely a loss of one less person to the sinful race. Christ risked all and all implies a lot more than His human nature. Not only Christs eternal nature would be lost, but the entire human race would be at stake! Heaven itself was imperiled in our redemption!!!!! An unusual darkness enveloped the cross. At the end of three hours while experiencing mentally and physically excruciating pain, the worst was yet to come the Son of God cried out in horror and despair "My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me," Dying hanging there on the cross the Son of God was unaware of the Fathers presence. While the divine Son was still alive, a light signifying His Fathers presence encircled the cross.
When Christ said: "Father into Thy hands I commend My spirit," "a light encircled the cross, and the face of the Saviour shone With a glory like the sun. He then bowed His head upon His breast and died." - DA p. 756.

The Father and the Holy angels had left the courts of heaven during the monumental Sacrifice of the Son of God. While He, and the whole earth, were enveloped in darkness for three hours, the Father was close by. Therefore the Son of God did not send His Spirit to heaven. His immortal life, His Deity, His divinity, which He inherited from the Father was committed back to Him. The Father did not take that life back to heaven. He left it in the tomb with His Sons dead form as indicated in the following inspired quotation
"When He (Jesus) closed His eyes in death upon the cross, the soul of Christ did not go . . . to heaven. . . . The spirit of Jesus slept in the tomb with His body, and did not wing its way to heaven, there to maintain a separate existence, and to look down upon the mourning disciples embalming the body from which it had taken flight. All that comprised the life and intelligence of Jesus remained with His body in the sepulchre; and when He came forth it was as a whole being; He did not have to summon His spirit from heaven." SP Vol 3 pp. 203,204 From the above quote we see clearly the Son of God had no consciousness in death.

Jesus retained the general attributes of divinity and absolute sinlessness in CHARACTER (Heb 7:26). Yet should be understood He needed to satisfy "Justice" and qualify not only as our Savior but as our substitute. According to Heb 2:9 He chose to taste death for every man by dying AS US (2 Cor 5:14, 21; 1 Cor 15:3) and AS WE DESERVE, to deliver us from an eternal death/separation from God! (See Isa 53:10-12; Heb 2:14,15). The son of man laid down His immortal life at the appointed time (Heb 9:26; Dan 9:26). He needed to lay aside His naturally INHERITED immortal life (John 5:26), which He also previously possessed in the heavenly courts.

The Infinite Sacrifice: Tasting death for every man

In taking upon human nature, by the grace of God, Jesus would taste death for every man (Heb 2:9). He suffered the worst kind of pre-death experience imaginable He tasted the second death, which is eternal separation from His Father and closest companion!!!! That is why even in the garden of Gethsemane, before any cruel hand or blow came down upon Him, before any weapon of affliction or instrument of torture was 27

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used against Him, under extreme mental anguish He sweated great drops of blood!! (Luke 22:44). He asked the Father to take away this cup of extreme psychological and emotional suffering (separation from God by becoming sin for us something His sinless soul recoiled from, and, up until then, had never experienced before!).

He was overwhelmed with horror at the fearful work that sin had wrought. His burden of guilt, because of man's transgression of the Father's law, was so great that human nature was inadequate to bear it. The sufferings of martyrs can bear no comparison with the agony of Christ. The divine presence was with them in their sufferings; but the Father's face was hidden from His dear Son.-- Ibid. {7ABC 463.1}

What kind of death did the divine Son of God suffer? Christ was suffering the death that was pronounced upon the transgressors of God's law. -- Manuscript 35, 1895. {7ABC 463.3} So Jesus wondered if the bitter cup of suffering could ever possibly pass from Him and if there was any other way out. Andthere wasnt!!! (Mark 14:36; Heb 2:14-17; Isa 53:10-12; Psm. 88:6,7, Lam 1:12.) The solemn tone of Rev 14:10 indicates that the undiluted wrath of God equates to eternal separation from God (the second death.) Was Christ drinking from this cup of separation? Yes indeed!! Christ suffered in mans place. In Gethsemane, He staggered under the terrible horror of the guilt of sin (7ABC 463.2). The Redeemer drains the mysterious cup [of suffering] even to its dregs (Testimony for the Church Vol. 2, p 211). In the following boxed text are excerpts from Testimonies to the church volume 2 that present some powerful insights of what took place at the cross.

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Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow, which is done unto me, wherewith the LORD hath afflicted me in the day of his fierce anger (Lam 1:12)
His The sins of a lost world were upon Him and overwhelming Him. It was a sense of His Father's frown, in consequence of sin, which rent His heart with such piercing agony and forced from His brow great drops of blood, which, rolling down His pale cheeks, fell to the ground, moistening the earth (T Vol. 2, p 204) It was the sense of His Father's displeasure which made His cup so bitter. It was not bodily suffering which so quickly ended the life of Christ upon the cross. It was the crushing weight of the sins of the world, and a sense of His Father's wrath. (2 T p. 209) We can have but faint conceptions of the inexpressible anguish of God's dear Son in Gethsemane, as He realized His separation from His Father in consequence of bearing man's sin. He became sin for the fallen race. The sense of the withdrawal of His Father's love pressed from His anguished soul these mournful words: "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death." "If it be possible, let this cup pass from Me." Then with entire submission to His Father's will, He adds: "Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt." {2T 206.1}

Some have limited views of the atonement. They think that Christ suffered only a small portion of the penalty of the law
of God; they suppose that, while the wrath of God was felt by His dear Son, he had, through all His painful sufferings, the evidence of His Father's love and acceptance; that the portals of the tomb before Him were illuminated with bright hope, and that He had the abiding evidence of His future glory. Here is a great mistake. Christ's keenest anguish was a sense of His Father's displeasure. His mental agony

because of this was of such intensity that man can have but faint conception of it. {2T 213.2}

With many the story of the condescension, humiliation, and sacrifice of our divine Lord awakens no deeper interest, and stirs the soul and affects the life no more, than does the history of the death of the martyrs of Jesus. Many have suffered death by slow tortures; others have suffered death by crucifixion. In what does the death of God's dear Son differ from these? It is true He died upon the cross a most cruel death; yet others, for His dear sake, have suffered equally, so far as bodily torture is concerned. Why, then, was the suffering of Christ more dreadful than that of other persons who have yielded their lives

Father's wrath as He suffered the 29 penalty of the law transgressed. It

for His sake? If the sufferings of Christ consisted in physical pain alone, then His death was no more painful than that of some of the martyrs. {2T 214.1} But bodily pain was but a small part of the agony of God's dear Son. The sins of the world were upon Him, also the sense of His Father's wrath as He suffered the penalty of the law transgressed. It was these that crushed His divine soul. It was the hiding of His Father's face--a sense that His own dear Father had forsaken Him-which brought despair. The separation that sin makes between God and man was fully realized and keenly felt by the innocent, suffering Man of Calvary. He was oppressed by the powers of darkness. He had not one ray of light to brighten the future. {2T 214.3} The death of the martyrs can bear no comparison with the agony endured by the Son of God. We should take broader and deeper views of the life, sufferings, and death of God's dear Son. When the atonement is viewed correctly, the salvation of souls will be felt to be of infinite value. In comparison with the enterprise of everlasting life, every other sinks into insignificance. {2T 215.1}

In order for Christ to redeem us Christ had to be completely separated from God on the Cross just as Adam and Eve were separated after sin, until, enmity against sin through the Holy Spirit was given back to them. On the Cross the Spirit of the Father withdrew from Christ causing the separation. If Christ was omnipresent, no separation could occur. This is why the Son of God said, "I thirst" when the Fathers Spirit was completely withdrawn. It was not primarily water that He wanted at that time but He desired to quench His souls thirst with His Father's Spirit. Adam and Eve couldn't come back to God until enmity was put between them and Satan. Christ however was able to choose good during a separated state because of His Divinity, and thus, He had power to lay down His life. His divinity is what kept Him from inherently being evil while separated from God. No human could do this in a separated state. (See the four SOP quotations in Appendix B that enlarge on this). God the Son in the trinity cannot be separated from God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. In His Divinity He was able to take our fallen human nature to die the second death but His Divinity did not perish for eternity. Corey McCain, June 4, 2011, email Comment on the deity of Christ.

Another point to factor in here is in death, the Son of God was unconscious. In reviewing some biblical basics: The body + the breath = a living soul (See Gen 2:7; Ecc 12:7; James 2:26). And, the opposite is true. The body the spirit or breath = death. This is what happened to the Son of God. His Spirit (breath) was given back to God when He gave up the ghost (spirit). In this event His spirit (breath) / identity / character, although given back to His Father, remained with Him in the sepulcher. 30

And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost . -- Luke 23:46

In His Divinity He was able to take our fallen human nature to die the second death but His Divinity did not perish for eternity His humanity died the second death. The sinless character and identity (software) of the Son of God was preserved during His unconscious state in death. Soon afterwards at His resurrection, it was imputed/restored back into His new physical hardware - His new incorruptible body, a body probably like Adam before the fall. Here we need to take time to answer another question What Death Does the Son of God Save Us From? The second death is mentioned four times in Scripture (Rev 2:11; Rev 20:6; Rev 20:14; Rev 21:8). The second death is the final destruction of the wicked for which there is no resurrection. It will eradicate all things that cause pain - emotional or physical. everything that offends or is any way destructive and harmful. There is some difference of opinion in regarding Christ in relation to the second death. Some argue If Jesus set men and women free from the second death then we would have to conclude that these people (the vile and the unrepentant wicked) will live forever because they are the only ones who end up there!!! Think about it: - there will be none saved from the second death. Whatever position we hold regarding the nature of Christs death, we need to understand that although Jesus went through the experience of the second death, He had no reason or intention to free the vile unbelieving abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, andliars (Rev 21:8) from the second death. As signified by the lake of fire Rev 20:14, the eternal second death consists of total annihilation. Subjects are therefore exempt from any resurrection. Why then did Jesus suffer the second death? The reason He endured this death was that the body of sin might be destroyed (Rom 6:6). He took our corrupt sinful offending spiritual nature to the place where it belongs -the lake of fire (the grave/separation from God) and destroyed it there eternally. (Rom 6:4-11). In faith the believer undergoes the symbolic water baptism, which is a public acknowledgment of that fact. Christ rose in newness of life in the spirit of holiness by the resurrection of the dead (Rom 1:4) in glorified flesh that He will impart to the faithful believer at the future resurrection of life. (See Appendix A)
In Scripture there is one reason why the first death is likened to a sleep. (John 11:11; Matt 9:24) And that is because of the provision, which Christ made He is the resurrection and the life and ALL sinners and saints in the long run will one day be awakened (resurrected. See 1 Cor 15:22).

The Second Death Hath No Power: The death that poses a problem for mankind was simply the death that was passed onto all of us through the first Adam. And that is the first death (Rom 5:12-21). We need to remember, had not Christ chosen to be the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world then the probationary life which by pure grace we all experience would never have been granted. It is easy for us, particularly as Christians, to play down the first death in light of the future resurrection of the righteous in expectation of eternal life. Yet we need to remember that IF it were not for the future resurrection then EVERYONE without exception who has died before us would loose his or her existence - for eternity! Think about that. Nobody EVER to live again judgment or no judgment; unrighteous or righteous; condemned or not condemned; second death or no second death!!!! For those judged unfaithful rising in the second resurrection, the eternal second death is to them only the extension of their first death (Rev 20:5,6). One is temporary separation from God the other is eternal separation. And mark with care; in completely and permanently delivering the faithful and true-hearted believer from temporary separation from God (the first death), Christ is in fact delivering him, or her, from eternal 31

separation (the second death!). In that case it is written, the second death hath no power. (Rev 20:6).
Christ became the second Adam. And the reason He came was to destroy sin, free us from the curse of the law of sin and death (Rom 8:2,3) and undo the damage done by the first Adam. First He gives us spiritual life resurrecting us from spiritual death!!! Then He gives us physical life. Through the down payment of spiritual life, we inherit immortal glorious physical life promised at the future resurrection. (See Rom 8:17-19.) our Saviour Jesus Christ, hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel (2 Tim 1:10) Up to here we have explored the nature of Christs death but not really the method of His death. Scripture indicates there was more than one reason Gods Son subjected Himself to a lingeringly painful and shameful form of death that was greatly despised and shunned by Jews.

Three reasons why Jesus was crucified and not stoned

Although Jesus was perfectly innocent of all false charges the Jews imposed upon Him (Luke 23:14; John 8:46; 18:38; 19:6), more than once they accused Him of blasphemy and plotted His death. (Matt 26:65; Mark 14:64; John 10:33-36) Stoning to death was the stipulated Jewish method for the punishment of blasphemy.
And he that blasphemeth the name of the LORD, he shall surely be put to death, and all the congregation shall certainly stone him: as well the stranger, as he that is born in the land, when he blasphemeth the name of the LORD, shall be put to death (Lev 24:16)

In all hypocrisy the merciless Jews claimed to revere the Law of Moses (Matt 19:7; 22:24; 23:2; Mark 10:3,4; John 5:45; John 1:17) but it always seemed to be the judicial side they focused on. Yet when it came to blasphemy - of which they charged the Son of God - we might wonder why they neglected to carry out Moses instructions for its punishment. They had several opportunities to stone Jesus while He was daily with [them] in the temple yet they didnt. (See John 8:59; 10:31). On one occasion they attempted to cast Him headfirst off a mountain cliff yet they didnt (Luke 4:29). Did God send protective angels to prevent His murder? One may wonder whether there were yet other non-recorded instances when murderous attempts failed against the Son of God. (See Luke 22:53). Did the Father know something we dont? In saying mine hour/time is not yet come (John 2:4; 7: 6, 8, 30), did Jesus recognize something many of us dont? That nothing less than the second death - a death as our sin-bearing substitute under the hour of the power of darkness would suffice if mankind was ever to be saved? (Luke 22:53) Naturally questions like these and the following arise: why didnt the angry Jews end the Son of Gods life by stoning when they were capable, eager, impatient, and so willing to do so? Was there a reason why God purposely delayed in sending His Son for 4,000 years until in the fullness of time when the Jewish nation was under Roman rule?
Because of the wicked departure of the Jews from God, he had allowed them to come under the power of a heathen nation. Only a certain limited power was granted the Jews; even the Sanhedrim was not allowed to pronounce final judgment upon any important case which involved the infliction of capital punishment. A people controlled, as were the Jews, by bigotry and superstition, are most cruel and unrelenting. The wisdom of God was displayed in sending his Son to the world at a time when the Roman power held sway. Had the Jewish economy possessed full authority, we should not now have a history of the life and ministry of Christ among men. The jealous priests and rulers would have quickly made away with so formidable a rival. He would have been stoned to death on the false accusation of breaking the law of God. The Jews put no one to death by crucifixion; that was a Roman method of punishment; there would therefore have been no cross upon Calvary. Prophecy would not then have been fulfilled; for Christ was to be lifted up in the

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most public manner on the cross, as the serpent was lifted up in the wilderness. {3SP 180.2}

Aside from the cruelty and excruciating pain of crucifixion, there must was another reason why the Jewish leaders insisted He be crucified. (Matt 27:22,23; Mark 15:13,14; Luke 23:21) Yet at the same time there was no recognition that they were fulfilling prophecy. It seems had they known exactly what they were doing they would have stopped dead in their tracks. They did not comprehend or receive Wisdom (Christ), or partake of His Spirit, Knowledge and Understanding (the mind of Christ) as Paul testifies,
.we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, [even] the hidden [wisdom], which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory 1 Cor 2:7, 8.

Well, they did crucify the Lord of glory. Unbeknown to them they were placing Jesus on center stage for the hour of darkness which was the backdrop, the dark evil contrast to the glorious light that was to shine from the cross. In the open universal mountain theatre of Calvary, He would, of His own volition, lay down His life. Interestingly, it was a heathen nation that switched the lights on in the darkness of the great controversy. The Roman power lit a candle that was never to go out. Carrying out the sentence imposed by false persistent charges of the Jews, they were to illuminate the world with Calvarys cross.
The Roman power was the instrument in God's hand to prevent the Light of the world from going out in darkness. The cross was lifted, according to the plan of God, in the sight of all nations, tongues, and people, calling their attention to the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. {3SP 181.1}

As alluded to earlier, Jesus did NOT merely die from crucifixion (a physical death) although He could have and would have had He not died quicker than He did. He died from a cross (the physical result of a broken heart). The crucifixion did not break Christs heart but the cross on mans behalf (separation from His Father) did. The crucifixion has always been what wicked man did to man. However, the cross (signifying separation from God) was what Christ did for man. At Calvary, it was not a life that was taken; it was a life that was given! (See John 10:11) Remember: bodily pain was but a small part of the agony of Gods dear Son (2 T p. 213). He was taking on the sins of the world, and as they poured into His soul, He prayed three times recoiling from the sin that would eventually separate Him from His Father, but yet He was willing to do His willAngels watched with astonishment,

As sins poured in, His life poured out, As guilt flooded feeling, heavens grace flowed out In triumph and glory and in destroying sin, He ransomed a world, otherwise lost to Him!!!

He poured out His soul unto death (Isa 53:12) and died of a broken heart as a result from this separation resulting from taking upon the worlds guilt. Concerning His life, Jesus said in John 10:17,18 no man taketh it from me, I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it [receive it] again. 33

We still havent fully answered the question why the Jewish leaders chose crucifixion above any other form of murder. When we understand the meaning behind the crucifixion then we can understand the reason why the infamous Jews intended, and in fact insisted, in having Him crucified instead of stoned. (Matt 27:22) What does the Scripture say regarding crucifixion?
His body shall not remain all night upon the tree, but thou shalt in any wise bury him that day; (for he that is hanged is accursed of God;) (Lev 21:23)

The apostle Paul did not gloss over the fact Christ subjected Himself to this ignominious kind of curse.
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree (Gal 3:13)

1) Here is the first reason for the crucifixion: The Jews wanted Jesus crucified - they wanted Him cursed cursed of God! In the mind of the Jews, to be cursed of God was to be shamefully despised and doomed, doomed to eternal separation from life under Gods displeasure and wrath! The Jews may have been right in their belief that the curse involves separation from God but they were definitely not right in their comprehension of Gods character. To them He was all justice devoid of mercy. (See John 8:2-11). Yet at the cross we see mercy blended with justice. (Psm 85:10; 89:14; 52:8; 59:17; 86:15; 136:2; Micah 6:8; James 2:13) God is abundant in mercy, He delights in it, and it will endure forever (Micah 7:18; 1 Pet 1:3) On the cross, crucified between two thieves, the Son of God died hours before these men. When a Roman soldier came to break the legs of all three men to hasten their death, when he came to Jesus he found Him already dead. (John 19:32,34). Keep in mind Jesus was no weakling. He was a strong man. He was temperate in His habits, free from disease and abstained from the indulgence of appetite. He worked in a carpenter shop in the days when there were no power tools. Everything had to be vigorously cut by hand so we could assume He was physically strong and robust. A moment before Christs death, apart from the obvious fact of immobility, it seems He possessed a reasonable level of vitality, physical vigor and strength. His head was not drooping down and swooning in unconscious state as we often see in works of art: - he held his head was up until the very last moment. It was not until then that He bowed His head and gave up the ghost (John 19:30). His voice was not some indefinable mutter as would certainly be the case of a person on the brink of PHYSICAL expiration. Just before death His voice rang out in clear trumpet-like tones. Scripture records: And when Jesus cried with a LOUD VOICE, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost (Luke 23:46).
Dont misunderstand. This is not to say in His humanity Jesus was some kind of superhuman incapable of dying. He could have died of old age, He could have been suddenly murdered, He could have died from thirst or hunger and other physical causes had he been placed in these circumstances unprotected or not sustained. He most certainly would have died had heavenly angels not prevented murderous schemes against Him. But the point here is what would be gained if Christs life had of just slipped away quietly unnoticed? For instance, in condescending to take upon our fallen flesh and blood nature, was not Jesus subject to the natural laws of humanity and heredity (Gal 4:4)? What about the laws necessary for sustenance and life? What about the inflexible global law of gravity? For example if Jesus attempted to extend His desert fast from 40 days to 50 days, or even 60 or 100 days do you think He could have possibly survived without warmth and food? After the devil took Him up to the giddy height of the pinnacle of the temple in the holy city, what if at the suggestion and temptation of Satan, Jesus had presumptively cast

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Himself down? Could we expect that He would survive? (Matt 4:5). And what would be gained? Absolutely NOTHING, but, EVERYTHING would be lost! In the wisdom and power of the cross (1 Cor 1:18,24) the focus of both evil and righteousness was clearly sharpened and thus brought to vivid contrast. The difference between the character of Satan and the character of Christ like white against blackest black was clearly seen by ALL. Satans disguise was torn away; In describing this event Luke prophesied that Satan the strong man who claimed this world and subjects as his palace. But when the Messiah would come who is described as the stronger than he He would overcome him and taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted. (Luke 11:21,22). In other words, at the cross Satans armour his masterful disguise of lies, misrepresentations, and insinuations about the Father and His Son was stripped away openly exposing him. He was seen as a murderer. At the cross [God] disarmed the principalities and powers that were ranged against us and made a bold display and public example of them, in triumphing over them. (Col 2:15) Amplified Version

2) The second reason God intended for a cross was to contrast evil against good. It seems deep conviction and conversion took place at the cross as people saw their own sin in contrast to a revelation of Gods love and unwarranted pain. (Luke 23:43; Mark 15:39)
All heaven suffered in Christs agony; but that suffering did not begin or end with His manifestation in humanity. The cross is a revelation to our dull senses of the pain that, from its very inception, sin has brought to the heart of God. (ED p. 363) Yet death was not the end. What appeared to be total defeat was in reality a monumental victory. When Christ cried out it is finished the death knell was rung for Satan. 3. Antitypical fulfillment of prophecy. There is another reason why Gods Son died as a sacrifice on the cross. And that is to become the antitypical fulfillment of prophecy as foreshadowed in the numerous sacrificial offerings in the Old Testament sanctuary service. (See Acts 17:3; 3:18; Luke 24:7; Comp John 3:14 with Num 21:8) Relative to Christs passionate love, consider for a brief moment the character of Jesus the Lamb of God in the book of The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Rev 1:1) in contrast to Satan. In Revelation 13 we read of a vicious sea-beast when seen under judgment, tells us something of the nature of Gods wrath and the second death. This cryptic beast is depicted in revelation as having ten horns and seven heads with the names blasphemy (Rev 13:1) written upon them. In the future, according to Revelation 19:20 and 20:10 this ten-headed sea-beast will be cast into the lake of fire and brimstone" a symbolic term for total annihilation - in other words, it will suffer the curse of the second death. This is referred to as the wine of the wrath of God poured out without mixture [mercy] into the cup of His indignation Rev 14:10 (eternal separation from God). Amazingly, as discussed earlier, this tells us something of the nature of the cup of suffering the Son of God was drinking from in Gethsemane! In the garden of Gethsemane, Christ drank from this cup of Gods wrath (a cup of indescribably painful separation from the great source of ALL life). Why, why did the innocent only begotten of the Father willingly take upon our sin and guilt and undergo this most horrible, unimaginable, ignominious death when He didnt have to? (2 Cor. 5:21). When He could have easily escaped suffering by calling upon twelve legions of angels to deliver Him? (Matt 26:53) There is only one reason. He was willing to say good-bye to life and He did it in His undying love for you and me a love that was stronger than death!!! (Song 8:6). The experience of Gethsemane and Calvary were proof that He loves us more than He loved Himself. "In the closing hours while hanging on the cross, He experienced to the fullest extent what man must experience when striving against sin. He realized how bad a man may become by yielding to sin. He realized the terrible consequences of the transgression of God's law; for the iniquity of the whole world was upon Him." 5 BC 1082

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We all deserve eternal death because: cursed be everyone that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them (Gal 3:10) and friends NONE of us have! Yet Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law being made a curse for us in mans place. (Gal 3:13) He had taken the cup of suffering from guilty man, and purposed to drink it Himself, and in its place give to man the cup of blessing (Testimony for the Church Vol. 2, p 203)

His lifeblood flows from every lacerated vein. All this in consequence of sin! Nothing could have induced Christ to leave His honor and majesty in heaven, and come to a sinful world, to be neglected, despised, and rejected by those He came to save, and finally to suffer upon the cross, but eternal, redeeming love, which will ever remain a mystery. {2T 207.1}

Glory to the risen Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world! No grave on earth could hold Him who in His divinity had power to break the bonds of death! In His infinite wisdom and foreknowledge of evil, long before the creation of the earth in a secret council between the Father and Son, after some struggle the heavenly Father agreed to an emergency plan that was actually suggested by His Son! A plan was devised that could be activated in case of a crisis of future disobedience. The Father and Son hid this plan from everyone until the time when the revelation of the mystery which had been hid in God for ages could be made known. Since the fall of man Gods eternal purpose has been fallen mans salvation and restoration to the kingdom of glory. And it is ONLY through Christs INFINATE sacrifice that this has been made possible. In view of our little Scriptural exploration, the following words of the apostle take on particular significance: And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: (Eph 3:9-11) From previous Bible texts and Spirit of Prophecy quotations we saw that Christ had the power to lay His life down and take it up (labo, labein, elabon - Greek, meaning to receive it back) from His Father again. This bears repeating. On the surface it appears Christ independently of Himself, with no involvement from His Father, rose from the dead (John 10:17,18). Yet here is where we meet a paradox. There are other texts that indicate Jesus could not raise Himself from the dead. In fact at about 30 verses to 1 evidence stacks up in favor that the Father raised up Christ from dead. So what do we believe?!! Did Jesus raise Himself from the dead, or did the Father raise Him from the dead? We need to understand according to Luke 23:46 the dying Son committed His spirit to the hands (power, possession) of His Father who was hidden in the thick darkness enveloping the cross. And it was the Father that bestowed His divine life back to Him for His resurrection and eternal glory and reunion with heaven. (Review the SP Vol 3 pp. 203,204 quote above). That seems to be the only way we can explain why the Bible states *over and over that the Father raised Christ from the dead. Here is just one example of the 30. "But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit." Rom 8:11

Life was poured back into Christ

Gal. 1:1; John 5:26; 2:19; 10:18: Thou Son of God, Thy Father calls Thee! Come

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(*Scriptures Indicating The Father Raised Christ From The Dead: Heb 5:7; 13:20; Eph 1:19,20; Gal 1:1; Acts 2:24, 30, 32; 3:15, 26; 4:10; 5:30; 10:40; 13:23; 30, 33, 34, 37; 17:31; 26:28; Rom 4:24,25; 6:4; 8:11 10:9; 1 Cor 6:14; 15:15; 2 Cor 4:14; 1 Thess 1:10; 2 Tim 2:8; 1 Pet 1:2.)

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forth. Death could hold dominion over Him no longer. Jesus rose from the dead a triumphant conqueror (SR p.231). Into Jesus, who had stated I am the resurrection and the life (John 11:25) was poured immortal life and He arose glorious.

Conclusion
At the beginning of this study we saw Christ originally possessed indescribable majesty, a heavenly home, glory, security, friendship with the Father, and bestowed authority and power. By choice He risked all in becoming incarnate. He humbly emptied Himself by pouring Himself out through His Spiritual life into the lives of men and woman for their redemption. He was prepared to lay down His inherited immortal life in love that was stronger than death and emptied out His soul at Calvary in death. He became a curse in place of us and revealed the wicked intent of the Jewish leaders. He died on a cross for us to expose Satans character, tare away his disguise of misrepresentations, lies and insinuations about His Father God, and to contrast His other-centered love against the backdrop of unfeeling selfish satanic evil. And lastly, He died as our sacrifice to fulfill all the types and shadows in the Old Testament sacrificial service. The cross was an open stage a universal theatre for the exposure of evil in contrast to the demonstration of Christs righteousness. (Col 2:15; Luke 11:21,22). Christ empties (pours out) His life into the hearts of His true believers and they in turn are motivated and empowered to empty themselves of pride and self-glory and follow Christ as channels of blessing. Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 1 Cor 15: 54,55. Christs death brought us life. Christ today is our life!!!!! For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: - Rom 6:5 Jesus said I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live John 11:25. His Spirit maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. As the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together (Romans 8:26, 22), the heart of the infinite Father is pained in sympathy. Our world is a vast lazar house, a scene of misery that we dare not allow even our thoughts to dwell upon. Did we realize it as it is, the burden would be too terrible. Yet God feels it all. In order to destroy sin and its results He gave His best Beloved, and He has put it in our power, through cooperation with Him, to bring this scene of misery to an end. This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Matthew 24:14. Education, pp. 263, 264.

In the above we see the mind of self-centred, self-obsessed, deluded Satan and Babylon that is destined to come to an end in the wake of the everlasting gospel. Through the grace of the Father, may we be determinded to keep the cross central to our lives. May we cultivate the mind of Christ by uniting with the living vine in other-centred love through the emptying of self for the service of others and for the sake of Gods kingdom and glory. Let this (self-emptying) mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.

Amen!
This almost concludes our Epic sacrifice study. We have considered at length the true Lamb of God and His Epic sacrifice. Satans objective is to make war against the Lamb but the Lamb will overcome Him at the end because He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Supplemental Section: After the following poem, which reviews and summarises our study of Epic Sacrifice, we will explore the many ways in which Satan counterfeits the Lamb of Gods entire ministry.

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Epic Sacrifice
It began in the realm of celestial heights In a far away home beyond the stars of the nights. One stood highly honored fair and bright Perfect in wisdom, beauty to the sight Highest of the angels, guardian of law. Clothed in Gods light that would fill us With Awe In myriads of coloured stones beautifully adorned. But day-by-day strange feelings loomed inside That he mysteriously covered and tried to hide. Perverting freedom under masterful disguise, Rebelling under the pretense of the subtlest lies. War broke out between two that were close Between the architect of evil who aspired the most And Michael the Creator of the stars and angelic hosts When Lucifer refused to return or repent Then angels became aware of the hidden intent. Lucifer now Satan originator of the curse, Was driven from heavens courts and cast down to earth To allure and deceive and do so much worse The world as we know it, was introduced to sin When a couple bought the lie then felt the serpents sting. And immediately the poison began its deadly work within But the sacrifice provided showed them the pit they had sunken in. Adam saw heartache between families and friends, So something must be done to radically change this trend. Century after century man waited for his defense For the advent of the Messiah whod cause many to repent. The fullness of time had arrived. Michael the archangel came to earth, Becoming incarnate through a Holy birth From the manger to Calvary to deliver from the curse

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On earth He risked His own immortality, To deliver man from the painful reality and penalty Of the laws violation not freedom from its moral obligation Sovereign of the universe, gift from above, Heavens highest commander, Gods only Son The time had come to die for the lost: Monumental sacrifice whatever cost Enduring suffering risk and loss Silent in agony bearing the pain Forgiving His murderers, though it was Him they had slain. His great heart crushed while heaven was hushed but His Spirit was Unbroken, Words long ago, to angels astonishment were spoken Father any price Ill pay. Sacrifice of epic proportion, Gods Son of unending compassion, Now heres exactly what happened to set the gospel plan in action. With bated breath and bloody matted hair A voice like a trumpet rang LOUDLY through the air It is finished, My Father, into Thy hands My Spirit I commit; for a moment no angel sang As illuminating flashes raced across the sky In the horror of strange darkness people tried to hide. The sun refused to shine in the middle of the day As if nature had something to our dull senses to say. His mission now accomplished He breathed out His last Atonement was complete for now and the past He humbly bowed His thorn-crowned head. And yes, Gods Son was dead! Filled with shame grief and dread stood the on-looking crowd As the earth quaked and shook and thundered loud. Lightening flashed beyond the crest and crowd As some felt remorse some felt regret Not a few clenched their fists and beat their breasts. Others like the Roman could only confess Surely this man was the Son of God Suddenly the Fathers bright glory encircled the Son No surer sign that victory was won. Many were troubled and couldnt sleep that night, memories, remorse, And shameful regret for the murder of a man that served and blessed.
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But His love was stronger than evil and death. Before dawn He had risen, called from the tomb they kept He rose to reign again in glory, majesty and immortality While there were others Hed called to witness throughout Galilee And in Jerusalem to proclaim His resurrection reality! They were a multitude of captives released from graves all around, A sample of the redeemed to see Him anointed and crowned! As Priest-King, judge and Savior of the lost and found These witnesses of His resurrection power are the Jewels of His crown His harvest of firstfruits reaped from the ground They ascend with Him to glory Living testimonies of salvations story, Once spiritually dead and lost in sin Until they were rescued and restored in the likeness of Him. So it was seen He would pay any price whatsoever So we could live in security and peace forever And be filled with His Spirit complete without measure And be home with Abba (daddy), Heavens occupant angels and friends, Remembering for now, upon Father and Son our life today and our Future depends. Sacrifice of epic proportion, Gods Son of infinite compassion Caused an apostolic chain-reaction Resulting from the light of the cross that seemed such a dreadful loss. Now we can say on the brink of eternity He is our substitute and surety Proclaiming Him with no uncertainty, Looking forward to the time when we will say most earnestly Lo this is our King, our friend our God That His Father for us was willing to send So that once and for all sins power and the presence of all that offends Would finally come to its long awaited end So we can reign with Him in glory with the angels, the redeemed and our Victorious friends!!!
Jeff W ilson

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Epic Counterfeit
Revelation 13 describes a vicious beast coming up out of the sea. It emerges from a populated area, which form other evidence, indicates Europe (See Rev 17:5). This cryptic beast made of beast of prey body parts is depicted in the book of Revelation as having ten horns and seven heads with the names blasphemy written upon them (Rev 13:1). In fact Revelation refers to its ten horns six times. Whilst working on this study earlier, the idea came to my mind to correlate the counterfeit beast and its kingdoms with the true. I tabulated the subtle counterfeit characteristics of antichrist alongside the characteristics of the true Lamb of God. I also included the more overtly opposite characteristics between them. With a little prayerful line upon line in an effort to rightly divide the Word of truth a surprising number of co-relational attributes were snapping into their place. (I have presented these in a two-columned table at the end of this study.) Wow! Initially, while in the process of listing the correlations, one little thing nagged at me. The ten-horned sea-beast didnt seem to match too well, at least numerically, with the sevenhorned seven-eyed slain Lamb of God depicted in Revelation. That is until When I shared the first version of this study with a friend he pointed out something numerically that I totally completely overlooked. When I saw it, I was delighted! Wow, thats it!! I said to myself, now it all fits perfectly! Looking a little closer, according to the book of Daniel, it is highly significant that this beast is depicted as having seven horns!!!! Bible students of prophecy recognize it did indeed originally have ten horns but three of them were uprooted, leaving, seven! (Dan 7:8). Coincidence? Doubtful. Interestingly, the three horns (the 3 Interestingly the Arian tribe people- groups or kingdoms) were for the most part destroyed by the Rome just before 538 AD under a man converted to Catholicism - Clovis king of the Franks. The Arians central beliefs conflicted with the developing papacy and thus exposed their false deceptive doctrines and erroneous practices. Some scholars believe they were keepers of the seventh-day Sabbath and they opposed the orthodox meta-physical Trinity doctrine. Keep in mind, when they were destroyed, most of the written records revealing the larger part of what they believed were destroyed with them. I have written about these things in a follow-up study entitled The Great Arian Controversy and Its Present-Day Significance. Under falsehood, Rome will rewrite history if and when it can be for her advantage - just as she did here in the case of the three God-fearing Arian tribes. The Arian Christians were maligned as barbarians when in fact Rome was the one that was barbarian in nature. Picturing Romes destructive nature, the prophet Daniel wrote,
After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it... (Dan 7:7)

So there we have a merciless ten-horned/kingdom beast. As indicated, a little horn power comes on the scene during the era of the ten horns/kingdoms of Europe and subdues three of them!!! (See Dan 7:20-25). Now it can be said that the beast has seven horns. It is believed by many Biblical scholars and historians that this little horn power is none other than the Roman Papal church. This can be easily deduced when one examines its identifiable symbolic characteristics. We wont list them all but here are just four of many. 1) It makes war against the saints (Dan 7:21). 2) It has eyes of a man. 3) It rules for 1,260 years (Rev 13:5; 12:6). 4) It has a mouth speaking boastful or blasphemous things (Dan 7:21; Rev 13:1, 6; Rev 17:3). Blasphemy by nature is defined by any human power, system or individual that boastfully claims the ability to forgive 41

sins (John 10:33). There is only one church on earth that claims this prerogative of God and that is the church of Rome. But what do these eyes of the little horn/kingdom signify? The Pope is the official head of this Church of pagan origin. Under the term Comediator or Co-mediatrix, the Pope, along with the supposed virgin Mary, claims to be a joint mediator. POPE JOHN PAUL II, GENERAL AUDIENCE, Wednesday, 1 October 1997, quoted (Lumen gentium, n. 60-62). Yet the Bible says there is one God, and ONE mediator between God and man and its not the pope! It is the man Christ Jesus (1 Tim 2:5). Furthermore, the pope claims the title Vicar of the Son of God and in THIS way the antichrist denies the Father and the Son (1 John 2:22; 2 Thess. 2:4). It appears the pope boasts of being the eyes of the church. The word Catholic means universal (Dan 11:45). Under sophisticated pretense the pope claims the ability to perceive, judge, and pronounce who or who is not worthy of church-forgiveness, honor, sainthood, eternal life or destined to purgatory. He claims to do the work of the Advocate/Holy Spirit!! Furthermore, the highly sophisticated and organized priesthood system made up of cardinals, bishops, priests (who conduct confessionals) and well-disguised Jesuit informants, exist throughout the whole globe. Without wanting to sound like an advocate of conspiracy theories, these agents of the Vatican in a secondary sense could possibly be said to be the eyes of the church. But on the other hand, one thing is certain. The apostle John depicts the true Lamb of God and it has seven eyes and seven horns, which are the seven Spirits of God. (Rev 1:20; 3:1; 4:5; 5:6) This indicates the Lambs omniscience and omnipresence, which will be explored more in the follow up study The 3-Fold Omni Paradox. Maybe there is some connection here with the 7 Spirits of God (the Father and Sons omnipresence) and the angels in view that Gods angels are described as ministering spirits sent forth [throughout the world] to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation Heb. 1:14. Another beast (apostate compromising Protestantism) follows the first beast and it has two horns like a lamb but spake as a dragon. (Rev 13:11) The point here is that two beasts are antichrist and persecuting in character and in reality the opposite of Christ in character, in heart, principle, motive and behavior. They are Satans counterfeit of the REAL Lamb of God and His remnant church counterfeiting His Holy Spirit, high priestly temple ministry and heavenly government. (See table below for 25 correlations between the antichrist and the symbolic risen slain Lamb of God with seven horns and eyes.

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Antichrist
The sea-beast came up out of the water and reigned for 3 prophetic years (1,260 days) to establish its kingdom. (Rev 13:5) Sat on a throne given by the dragon. The seven-headed sea-beast was wounded to death at the end of the above period. (Rev 13:3)

The Lamb of God

Christ humbled Himself and went down into the water (baptism) and ministered for 3 years to establish His kingdom (Matt 3:16; Dan 9: 27) Sat on a throne given by God. The Word made flesh was wounded to death at the end of the above period (at His cross). (Matt 25:31; Rev 3:21. Luke 9:22; Acts 2:23; Dan 9:27) Christs deadly wound was healed (Rev 5:5-7) The multitude wondered at the miracles of the Lamb who only performed miracles to heal and bless. (Matt 15:31; Mark 5:61; Luke 4:22; Rev 15:2) The Lamb of God eventually has seven horns (Spirits of God) and many crowns (Rev 5:6-7; 19:12) Gods Son was accused of blasphemy for claiming to be the Son of God (John 10:33,36; Mark 14:63) The Lamb of God receives power from His Father (Rev 5:12; Matt 28:13)

Beasts deadly wound was healed. (Rev 13:3,14) And all the world wondered after the Lamb-like beast. (Rev 13:3,13) Note: The Lamb-like beast will perform great wonders to deceive. The seven-horned multi composite sea-beast eventually has ten horns & many crowns (Dan 7:8; Rev 13: 1) The beast has the names blasphemy upon it claiming to be God (Rev 13: 1,6; 17:3) The sea beast and the lamb-like beast receive power from the dragon (Dan 8:24; Rev 13:2). The beast had seven horns. Three were uprooted by a little horn having eyes like the eyes of a man and a
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The Lamb of God has seven horns (Spirits of God) and seven eyes of omniscience and omnipresence and a mouth speaking the truth in love. The

 mouth speaking blasphemy. (It denies the Son of God.) (John 10:33; 1 John 2:22,23) It blasphemes the Father, His name, (His character) His tabernacle (law / government / and Christs priestly ministry etc.) (Dan. 7:8, 20, 24; Rev 13:1, 6; Rev 13:6) The sea-beast set up a counterfeit priesthood and temple system (2 Thess. 2:4) The dragon driven false prophet and the beast have an unclean Satanic spirit that goes throughout the world -church, kings, governors and rulers, performing great miracles to gather and to deceive. (Rev. 16: 13,14) Antichrist brings down false Pentecostal fire from heaven (Rev. 13:13) The two beasts make war against the saints (Rev. 13:7) They who worship the beast and His image have no rest [from sin or guilt] day or night. (Rev. 14: 11) The self-centered beast exalts itself. (2 Thess. 2:4; Rev 18:7; Dan 8:10,11,25) The Lamb-like beast makes a replica image to the first beast (his church- father) in honor to him (Rev 13:14)
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Lamb testified that He is the Son of God - the foundation upon which He would build His church (See Matt

16:15-18; Rev 5:6,7; John 10:36; Luke 4:22; John 3:34; 6:63, 68; 17:1) Christ gave glory to His Father, honored and blessed His law and government.

The Lamb of God is the true High priest ministering in the true tabernacle in heaven (Heb. 8:2; 9:11) The Lamb of God has one Holy universal seven-fold Spirit that goes out to His global seven churches. He lovingly instructs, convicts, calls to repentance and warns them from being deceived. Christ bestows true Pentecostal fire (Latter rain) from heaven (Acts 2:1-4) In righteousness he [the Lamb] doth judge and make war (Rev. 19:11) All who worship the Lamb of God and His Father are promised spiritual and physical rest. (Matt 11:28-30) The other-centered Lamb humbled Himself. (Phil. 2:6-10; Heb. 2:9) The true Lamb/Son of God is the very image of His invisible God (His Father) and honors Him (Col 1:14-16)

The Lamb-like beast commits fornication with the devils girlfriend mother of harlots. (Rev 18:9) Three unclean spirits like frogs go out to deceive all who dwell on the earth. (Rev 16:13). Frogs catch
their prey by their tongues. Could it be the tongues speaking Catholic charismatic movement is on the rise to catch their prey?

The Lamb of God marries His elect lady virgin Church-bride (2 John 1:1,5; 2 Cor 11:2; Rev 19:7) The Lambs seven Spirits of God go out to convict the seven churches scattered throughout the earth. Christ ministers above while His Spirit ministers on earth. (Rev 1:4,11,20; 5:6; John 16:8) Lamb of God releases people from captivity (Eph 4:8; Isa 42:7; Rev 1:18) He that was led into captivity [death] was released from captivity: He that was killed by the sword of justice must kill (our old nature) with the sword of the Spirit (Heb 4:12; Zec 13:7; Rev 19:15) The Lamb never manipulates or uses force. He offers freedom. (John 8:36) The Lamb of God performed true miracles to bless (John 11:37; 12:47) The Lamb only employs truth and love (2 John 1:3; John 14:16) The Lamb of God exercised all the divine power bestowed to Him from His Father thus demonstrating the law of love in establishing the eternal heavenly kingdom (Act 10:33) The Lamb offers life everlasting. (John 10:10; 14:6)
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The first beast leads people into captivity (Rev 14:3) He that leadeth into captivity (death) shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword (Rev 13:10)

The beast employs manipulation and force. (Rev 13:15) The beast performs counterfeit miracles to deceive. (Rev 13:13; 19:20) The beast employs flattery, deceit, and persecution. (Rev 13:15,16) The lamb-like beast exercises all the evil power of the first papal beast. It enforces man-made laws of Satanic origin in establishing its temporary corrupt kingdom (Rev 13:12) The beast brings about death (Rev 13:10)

Sunday observance is the mark of the beasts authority. The seventh-day Sabbath is the seal and sign, a reminder of the Creator, a test of loyalty to God and the Lamb and their creative and redemptive authority. (Rev 14:6-12; Ex 20:8-11; Deut 5:12-15; Heb 4:1-10; Eze 20:12)

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10 CHARACTERISTICS OF GODS KINGDOM OF RIGHTEOUSSNESS
1) KINGDOM OF ONE TRUE GOD:
They will have no other gods before the heavenly Father only true God. Ex 20:3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. John 17:3

10 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ANTICHRIST BEASTS: KINGDOM OF LAWLESSNES

1) - KINGDOM OF FALSE WORSHIP:
"And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him (the beast), (See Dan 8:11) And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed Rev 13:4, 8, 10, 15. Babylon worships man (2 Thes 2:4)

2) KINGDOM FREE FROM IDOLOTROUS

WORSHIP: They will not make any graven image [and] bow down .to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity..And shewing mercy. Ex 20:4-6

2) - KINGDOM OF IDOLATRY:
the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. Rev 13:15 made an image to the first beast Rev 13:14 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow,. Rev 18:7

3) KINGDOM OF AUTHENTICITY:
They will not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Ex 20:7

3) - KINGDOM OF FALSE WITNESSES AND FALSE PROPHETS: (Dan 8:25)

And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. Rev 13:6. (See Rev 19:20, James 2:10)

4) KINGDOM OF TRUE PURPOSE AND IDENTIY. (WORSHIP THE CREATOR AND REDEEMER):
They will Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour and do
all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, .For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all.. in them is.. Ex 20:1,8-11; Deut 5:15; Rev 14:6-8; Eze 20:20)

4) -KINGDOM OF THE PAPAL (FALSE) SABBATH REINFORCING LOST IDENTITY:

And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand , or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Rev 13:16,17 Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee, which frameth mischief by a law? Psm 94:20 46

5) KINGDOM OF MUTUAL HONOR AND RESPECT:

They will Honour [their] father and thy mother: [and their] days [will] be long upon the land which the LORD thy God gives [them]. Ex 20:1

5) - KINGDOM OF PARENTAL DISHONOUR and DISRESPECT THROUGH TRADITION

And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Matt 15:6. See Dan 11:24, 38 and James 2:10.

6) - KINGDOM FREE FROM WAR, VIOLENCE, HATRED & MURDER:

They will not kill. Ex 20:13

6) - KINGDOM OF MURDER AND HATE:

And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth Rev 18:24 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. Rev 17:6 And the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed Rev 13:15 (See Rev 13:10; 17:6; Dan 7:19-25; 11:44)

7) -KINGDOM OF HONESTY, COMMITMENT AND TRUST:

They will not commit adultery. Ex 20:14

7) - KINGDOM OF ADULTERY & DISTRUST

For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. Rev 19:2. (See also Rev18: 9)

8) - KINGDOM OF SECURITY AND RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHERS BELONGINGS:

They will not steal. Ex 20:15

8) -KINGDOM OF THIEVES (MURDER EQUATES TO STEALING) (Dan 11:13,14)

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:JOHN 10:10 in one hour is thy judgment come..no man buyeth their merchandise any more: horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.. Rev 18:10-13,14. And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him,he shall surely be put to death Ex 21:16 If a man shall deliver unto his neighbour money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the mans house; if the thief be found, let him pay double. Ex 22:7

LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly,.worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor

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taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved. Psm 15:1-4

Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. Rev 18:6; See Gen 31:26 and James 2:10

9) - KINGDOM OF TRUTH:
They will not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Ex 20:16

9) -KINGDOM OF FALSE WITNESSES:

And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast Rev 13:14. See James 2:10

10) - KINGDOM OF GRATITUDE AND CONTENTMENT FREE OF COVETEOUSNESS:

They will not covet [their] neighbour's house, they will not covet their neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is [their] neighbour's. Ex 20:17

10) -KINGDOM OF COVETOUSNESS AND JEALOUSY:

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after ... 1 Tim 6:10. I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. Acts 20:33 | The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, & all manner vessels of ivory, & all manner vessels of most precious wood, & of brass, and iron, and marble. Rev 18:12-14

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 Appendix A
Now think about this. Jesus was God veiled in humanity..That veil was the humanity that Jesus assumed. Indeed, that humanity was the shell or covering of the Corn of Wheat that had to die. Question: When Jesus died on Calvary, what died Divinity or humanity? Now be assured that Divinity cannot die for it is inherently immortal (see 1 Timothy 6:16) so we must conclude that it was the humanity of Jesus that died. What death? Why the eternal death as we have seen the curse of God to be. Next question. Which humanity rightly deserved the eternal death making that death perfectly just and ethically righteous? Did the innocent, sinless humanity of Adam before the fall justly and ethically deserve that death? If you answer yes, you are badly and sadly mistaken Only the humanity that was fallen and sinful did truly, ethically and righteously deserve to die the eternal death. The parable is perfect. The Corn of Wheat that died represented the fallen, sinful humanity that Jesus assumed. Remember the fact that was pointed out earlier that in the humanity that Jesus assumed reposed the entire human race.

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: (2 Cor 5:14) Then were ALL dead. Yes, Jesus the loving Savior was willing to leave the spotless glory of heaven to come down to this sin cursed world and embrace the sin-cancerous/death-row aids victims marked for eternal destruction, right where we were. He assumed us all as we were, knowing that only the corporate death of the fallen human race could righteously and ethically satisfy the just demands of the Holy Law. It had to be the fallen race in its fallen condition. For the sinless humanity of Adam before The Fall to die the eternal death would mean a gross and inexcusable miscarriage of justice. It is plain that He Who is not willing that any should perish is the Ultimate Genius God of absolute wisdom and perfect justice. (The Character and Love of God Revealed in the Gospel, Michael Delaney)

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Appendix B

Adam, in his innocence, had enjoyed open communion with his Maker; but sin brought separation between God and man, and the atonement of Christ alone could span the abyss and make possible the communication of blessing or salvation from heaven to earth. {PP 67.2} Only He who is one with God could say, I have power to lay down My life, and I have power to take it again. In His divinity, Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death. {DA 785.3} It will be seen that He who is infinite in wisdom could devise no plan for our salvation except the sacrifice of His Son. {GC 652.2} The broken law of God demanded the life of the sinner. In all the universe there was but one who could, in behalf of man, satisfy its claims. Since the divine law is as sacred as God Himself, only one equal with God could make atonement for its transgression. None but Christ could redeem fallen man from the curse of the law and bring him again into harmony with Heaven. Christ would take upon Himself the guilt and shame of sin--sin so offensive to a holy God that it must separate the Father and His Son. Christ would reach to the depths of misery to rescue the ruined race. {PP 63.2}

________________________________________________________________ The follow-up companion study The 3-Fold Omni Paradox is the result of an exploration of the attributes of Christ prior to the cross. It explores His life, ministry and the nature of His divine miracles during the days of His incarnation. From a Scriptural standpoint we wrestle with questions that demand answers such as: did Christ possess omniscience during His life on earth? Did He possess omnipotence? We explore what took place in heaven after the resurrection. From Scripture we will decode the meaning behind John the Revelators cryptic imagery of Christ - pictured as the slain Lamb with seven eyes and seven horns. What is the relation of these symbols with His divinity, the omnis, and Pentecost and what significance does this hold for us today?

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Not until the death of Christ was the character of Satan clearly revealed to the angels or to the unfallen worlds. The archapostate had so clothed himself with deception that even holy beings had not understood his principles. They had not clearly seen the nature of his rebellion. God could have destroyed Satan and his sympathizers as easily as one can cast a pebble to the earth; but He did not do this. Rebellion was not to be overcome by force. Compelling power is found only under Satan's government. The Lord's principles are not of this order. His authority rests upon goodness, mercy, and love; and the presentation of these principles is the means to be used. God's government is moral, and truth and love are to be the prevailing power. DA 758,759

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