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FREE IT TAKES A COMMUNITY WINTER 2003

Why She Didn’t Fly Special Double Issue Remembering the Jesus Movement of the Early ’70s —Part One— n 1971, Look magazine proclaimed, “Jesus is rising in ICalifornia!” The Jesus Movement, as it was called, was heralded as the beginning of a radical shift in the hearts of America’s young people towards God. Thousands of young people were heeding the call to, “Get high on Jesus” as they flocked into the Pacific Ocean seeking forgiveness and a new life in Christ. These were electrifying times that left a deep, indelible impression in the memories of all who experienced them. What happened to the Jesus Movement? Where is it today? Did it ever really get off the ground? Did it fly? Although it began with much zeal and enthusiasm, it soon lost momentum, and many found themselves right back where they started, wondering why they hadn’t been able to take flight and ride the heights of the Earth. Most have gone on with their lives, settling back into a system they once hoped to change. This freepaper contains a very important message for both the veterans of the original Movement and those who are hoping to rekindle that same excitement in this generation. For those who are embarking on the exciting journey of revival, we hope what we have written can help you to benefit from the past, to learn from the experiences of those who were just like you 30 years ago, with high hopes of making a difference. We sincerely want you to find the hope that doesn’t disappoint. For you who 30 years ago were caught up in the excitement of the Jesus Movement and longed for something new, but now wonder whether life short-changed you, or where you took a wrong turn, we hope what we have written will rekindle a hope in you to actually find the abundant life that Jesus promised all those who trust in Him.p

2 www.commonwealthofisrael.org WINTER 2003 � ���������� ���������� CONTENTS FEATURES

14 Shattered Dreams History is a great teacher if we will only pay attention.

Why She Didn’t Fly 18 Why the Jesus Movement Never Got Off The Ground. Remembering the Jesus Movement of the ’70s Like an airplane revving its — Part One — faulty engines for takeoff, it SECTIONS ABOUT THE COVER Ocean baptism — Calvary was doomed before it could  4 Testimonies even lift off the ground. Chapel, Costa Mesa, California. The stories of two very different men longing for Photograph by Jack Cheetham. the same life, and how they found it. Used with permission.  12 The Jesus Movement  47 What We Believe The turmoil of a whole generation prepared the way for a promising spiritual revival, but where did  64 Communities it all end?  23 ’60s Movement The last thing they wanted to do was sit on a pew and hear another sermon that fueled the status quo of mainstream American life. 35 Our Story When we stopped going to  26 Parables and started being the church, Sometimes a simple story can open our minds to something wonderful happened. understand a profound truth.  31 Who We Are Our Leader, Our Story, Our Beliefs  49 Outside the Camp Outside the camp is were disciples ought to be, — Part Two — is also available. because that’s where their Master was. Ask us for your copy.  60 What About the Heathen?

IT TAKES A COMMUNITY is published quarterly by Parchment Press. Subscriptions are available 49 Outside the Camp without charge. Please send your name and address to: It Takes a Community, c/o Parchment Press, Outside the security of 52 S. River Street, Coxsackie, NY 12051 or call us with your request: 1-888-893-5838. Please don’t organized religion, His followers feel obligated to send any money. These publications are absolutely free from our heart to you. can lay hold of salvation. Please recycle this paper, by sharing with a friend. 2 www.commonwealthofisrael.org TESTIMONIES

Summer 1977, New Orleans, Trinity Christian Community Heart pounding, full of desire to follow this amazing, radical Jesus that I read about in the , I stood in the water singing with all of my heart. I was I have decided to follow Jesus, confi dent that at the end of that last “No turning I have decided to follow Jesus, back…” the young pastor whose arm was I have decided to follow Jesus, around me would plunge me under that wa- No turning back, no turning back. ter, and I would never be the same again. Though none go with me, still I will follow, I fi ngered the silver and turquoise ring on Though none go with me, still I will follow, my right hand. I had bought it in the Fall Though none go with me, still I will follow, of 1972 at the Ann Arbor Hash Festival No turning back, no turning back. where I had pushed past my nagging The world behind me, the cross before me, conscience and grabbed onto the tail The world behind me, the cross before me, of the ’60s movement in my desperate The world behind me, the cross before me, desire to be part of something exciting. No turning back, no turning back! Now somehow that ring symbolized for me all the selfi shness and futility of those past fi ve years. “The world behind me, the cross before me…” With silent determination, I slipped the ring off my fi nger and let it sink to the bottom. No one saw me do it. No turning back, no turning back… I emerged from the water jumping for joy, full of zeal to follow Jesus, one of countless young Jesus Movement of the 1970s. people touched by the

Snapshots: One Man’s Journey

Fall 1979, South Hamilton, Massachusetts, A mighty fortress is our God, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary a bulwark never failing; The strong, deep chorus of male voices resonating in the chapel Our helper he, amid the fl ood of the old convent sent chills down my spine. I pinched myself as I of mortal ills prevailing: left the glorious chapel service and walked across the majestic hilltop For still our ancient foe to the library to study. Was it real? Was I really in seminary, sitting doth seek to work us woe; at the feet of the great scholars, being trained for a lifetime of His craft and power are great, ministry? The library atmosphere enveloped me. Its inexhaustible and, armed with cruel hate, supply of books was intoxicating — systematic , On earth is not his equal. commentaries, biographies, church histories, Calvin’s Institutes… ~ It was hard to concentrate on my church history assignment, not only because of the sea of books surrounding me, but because of the escalating voices of two students having an intense argument behind me. It was the typical Calvinist/Arminian debate — election versus free will — and they were going at it “hammer & tongs.” Somehow that moment vividly represented to me the whole bloody history of the church. That very morning I had been troubled to hear of having Michael Servetus burned at the stake for refusing to believe in the Trinity. The professor only lamented the fact that Christians no longer had that same passion to be “Defenders of the ” like John Calvin. Over the course of that year my thoughts increasingly troubled me, and my doubts grew that the lofty realm of seminary had anything to do with the simple but profound love of the Carpenter from Galilee and His rough-hewn disciples who turned their world upside down. I left seminary, longing for the life of those fi rst disciples.

4 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 5 Fall 1982, Dorchester, Massachusetts, Prince of Peace Fellowship Unable to hold back my tears, I took down the My fl esh is tired of seeking God, sign I had carved by hand less than two years be- but on my knees I’ll stay fore: Prince of Peace Fellowship, Assembly of God I want to be a pleasing child, Our inner-city house church had suffered a fatal . until that fi nal day heart attack. Once shining lights of the Assemblies My mind is full of many thoughts of God Home Missions outreach, my wife and I had that clutter and confuse burned out, unable to kindle a fi re in the hearts of our But standing fi rm, I will prevail, little congregation. We had thought we could start from in faith that I’ll be used scratch and do things right, not weighed down with all the tra- ~ ditional church trappings. We had thought that we all had the same heart, to live together in community and share all we had in common. We were sadly mistaken. I put the sign in the basement of our tired old house, unable to throw it away. For the next eight years I would cry every time I looked at that sign, because of the great hopes we had for our little church. Failure was a bitter pill to swallow.

Spring 1984, Framingham, Massachusetts, Vineyard Christian Fellowship God of all comfort Comfort settled over me like an old fl annel quilt. God of all grace The Jesus Movement had mellowed with age, and We have come to seek You its soothing melodies were like an anesthetic on my We have come to seek Your face. ecclesiastical wounds. Kenn Gulliksen’s soft eyes and ~ John Wimber warm smile surveyed his devoted followers, tilling their hearts for the seeds of introspection he would sow. Newcom- ers on the scene, my wife and I waited in eager expectation of heavenly words from this legendary teacher. The fi rst portion was rather strange fare. We heard that all of our wrong ways, our deep insecurities, and our emotional wounds were infl icted upon us by our parents, siblings, and other close relations. We’re all victims of neglect, abuse, and injustice, and need deep inner healing. Jesus wants to journey back with us to revisit each painful memory, visualize it, and let him heal it, helping us to forgive each one who hurt us. Ahhh… how soothing! So that was my problem. I’m just a helpless victim. It’s really not my fault. Let’s see… where can I place the blame? From week to week the menu never changed and the seductive savor of that sentimen- tal sauté gave way to its bitter aftertaste. Introspection is a suicide journey and we were in the dining car, watching our past go by, increasingly sensing that we didn’t want to go where this train was taking us. We got off at the next stop, disoriented, disillusioned, wait- ing for the next train in some other direction.

4 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 5 Snapshots

Summer 1987, Dorchester, Massachusetts, A Local Baptist Church It was only a few blocks away from our house, so why O to grace how great a debtor not give it a try? An old traditional Baptist church, most Daily I’m constrained to be! of the congregation over 70, most of the pews empty… Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, they’d probably appreciate a nice young family like Bind my wandering heart to Thee. ours. Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, They did. The old folks loved us. The young pastor Prone to leave the God I love; loved us. We could do no wrong… almost. We had Here’s my heart, O take and seal it, been there almost a year when it came time for the an- nual church business meeting. But who was that strange man at Seal it for Thy courts above. the head table? He’s the church treasurer? He’s on the Board of Trustees? ~ Robert Robinson Why have we never seen him in church? Oh, it’s not his thing. He only comes on Easter. Then what’s he doing on the church board? He’s a stock broker; he’s good with fi nances. We got the message. Serve, sing, encourage, pay tithes. Don’t rock the boat. It was hard for John, the young, zealous, against his approval rating. In fact, hearing his sermon one Sunday morning I came to a star-Calvinist pastor. His intensity in the pulpit worked tling realization. I’d heard that argument before somewhere… in that very same voice… He was the Calvinist student having that bitter argument in the Gordon-Conwell library! the hair tingle on the back of my neck. It made It took less than three years for the “old guard” to give poor John his walking papers. He begged us to walk with him and they begged us to stay. We had given our hearts to both and the bitter schism ripped us apart. It was time to say good-bye again.

Winter 1990, Boston, Massachusetts, They teach a vain and false deceit, Park Street Church Which is to God and all his truth opposed; We dropped off our children for Sunday And what the willful mind conceiveth, School and walked down the street to pass O sorrow which the church so sorely vexeth the hour having coffee and croissants at Café That must usurp the Bible’s place. Tremont before taking our customary pew in The one now chooseth this, the other that, the balcony. Ten years of bitter disappointments And reason’s foolishness is their full scope. had drained all the urban missionary zeal out of They are just like the tombs of dead men, us, to be replaced by the comforts and travels Which, though they may be outward fair, of my thriving consulting business. Nature Mere stench and mould contain within them abhors a vacuum. An arousing Bach organ prelude reverberat- And all uncleanness show when opened. ~ Johann Sebastian Bach ed through the grand old building as it fi lled with a thousand or more in their fi nery. Ken Olsen, deacon in the church and billionaire founder of Digital Equipment Corporation, took we doing here? his customary pew not far from me. What on earth were Seeking a quiet refuge from the battles of small church politics and the pressure to be and do everything, we thought we could just disappear into the homogenous laity of this bastion of . We sat back in the pew and went along for the ride. It was quite comfort- able… until we got a whiff of the seamy underbelly of the church. Lurking beneath its veneer of virtue and respectability was a whole world of sexual intrigue. We slipped quietly out the back door. Hardly anyone noticed.

6 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 7 One Man’s Journey

June 1990, Lausanne, Switzerland, A Lonely House Overlooking Lake Geneva The children’s toys greeted me as I returned to the empty house to embrace a month of solitude. A death My eyes are dry, my faith is old, in the family had called my wife and children back to My heart is hard, my are cold, the States, and the death at work in my own soul called And I know how I ought to be, me to the brink of despair. Alive to you, and dead to me. How I dreaded coming home to that empty house! Oh what can be done, But why? I was no stranger to lonely hotel rooms. But for an old heart like mine, somehow this was different. The smells and effects of Soften it up, with oil and wine. my wife and children haunted me. They were there, but The oil is You, Your Spirit of love, not there. Loneliness gripped me like a bandit. Every Please wash me anew, evening after work found me lingering at my favorite in the wine of Your blood. café… another glass of wine… a cup of coffee… a ~ Keith Green chocolate… a slow walk by the lake… until darkness drove me home to fi ght off the cruel comfort of the television. Oh, God, are you there? Where are you? Why are you so far from me? The Bible brought me no comfort. Everything my eye fell upon condemned me. But I was saved, wasn’t I? Wasn’t I? Was I? If I was, where was my Helper? But I was… helpless. Oh, God, please help me!

August 1990, Dorchester, Massachusetts, There is a balm in Gilead Our Old House To make the wounded whole. Eleven years worth of possessions took some time to pack. There is a balm in Gilead “Imagine no possessions…” John Lennon had said. We would To heal the sin-sick soul. have to settle for hiding them in the basement. The house ~ an old Negro spiritual was for rent, and we were going back to Switzerland to stay. Trouble was, whom could we trust as tenants with all of our possessions in the basement? The umpteenth prospect shook his head sadly, “Too much house for me.” Pausing briefl y before driving off, he added, “If you’re really in a pinch, you might want to check out that com- munity over on Melville Avenue. They’re really nice, and they always seem to need more space. They believe the Bible, too. Good luck!” The next morning found me knocking on their door. “What? You want us to live in your house while you’re gone? How kind of you! But don’t you want to know what we’re about? Here, read this freepaper. We’ll send someone over to see you tomorrow!” A week later we were fl ying back to Switzerland, having left our house in the care of this peculiar people we hardly knew but completely trusted. “Please visit our brothers and sisters in France!” they urged us. We were determined to do just that at the fi rst opportunity.

6 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 7 Snapshots

This is how I came to my land, October 1990, Sus, France, I remember our God, Tabitha’s Place And His words that went My weary eyes opened to the breathtaking sight of an deep into my heart. ancient walled city rising above the mist as we rumbled Our children, our wives, across the countryside of southern France. One by one, my packages held in our hands, wife and children awoke, full of anticipation for what lay Some came on mules and ahead. Waiting for us at the station was a warm-hearted, some on their own two feet. full-bearded German man who kept smiling at us and saying, I know this is the way, “Wonderful!” as he loaded our bags into an old Peugeot van. I know that it was shown to me. As we turned into the gates of the old chateau we were Abba please, light up the way, greeted by 150 men, women, and children of all ages and Help me for I’m coming back, nationalities jumping up and down and cheering as they Comin’ back to my land. swarmed around us, ushered us into the entrance hall, and ~ An old Israeli song served us a delicious meal. Thus began the week that forever changed our lives. Had we stepped back 1950 years in time 1 to the fi rst community of disciples described in the Bible? Or even more wonderful — could it be that the very same life and spirit had been restored in our day? In the light of this life, the darkness of my soul had nowhere to hide. It stared me in the face and reduced me to a quivering lump on the bed. All those years had not given me life. I 2 still a slave to my fl esh. had only walked according to the course of this world, But, oh, Joy! Life was here! Love was here! I had found the Treasure hidden in the fi eld! I would go and sell all that I had and buy that fi eld!

November 1990, Lausanne, Switzerland, He’s given me hope, hope that does not disappoint, A No-Longer-Lonely House He’s given me hope, for me to go beyond this point, And now I’m grateful, grateful to be a part of this life of love. Determined to disentangle myself as grace- fully and quickly as possible from my consult- He’s given me friends, friends that can understand, ing contracts, we returned to Switzerland with He’s given me friends, friends that gave me a hand, the hope of a new life just ahead. And now I’m grateful, grateful to be a part of this life of love. “Are you crazy? You’re going to lose every- He’s given His love, when I really saw my need, thing you’ve worked so hard to gain!” He’s given His love, brought me in His family, “You hardly know these people! They’re And now I’m grateful, grateful to be a part of this life of love! probably a dangerous cult!” And now I’m grateful, grateful to be a part of this life of love! “At least keep some money in a Swiss bank And now I’m grateful, grateful to be a part of this life of love! in case you change your mind…” It was unrelenting. How could we withstand it? Please, come and help us! Relief came in an old Land Rover — them. Oh, you’re here at last! Thank you for coming! six radiant faces beaming at us as we fl ew down the walkway to greet Eagerly we called all our friends, “Come and meet the ones who are living out the Scriptures! Then you’ll understand!” But they didn’t understand. They all left the house, shaking their heads, leaving us alone with our new friends. Evening fell with a blanket of snow. One of our friends opened his Bible and with simple grace explained our Creator’s purpose and plan for His people. I wanted with all my heart to be one of them. Faith had fi nally worked its way to the core of my heart and up to my lips. Down to the lake we all went with great joy, where I and my faithful wife surrendered our lives in the frigid waters, crying out to the only One who can save. The warm hands of our new family received us from that icy womb and took us home.

1 Acts 2:44-47 and 4:32-35 2 Ephesians 2:2

8 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 9 One Man’s Journey

November 2002, Groton, Massachusetts, An Old House on Main Street Love is our home, As we warmed ourselves in the glow of the crackling fi re a place to receive healing. on the hearth, my faithful wife, six wonderful Brokenness of heart opens the way, daughters, and a few close friends recalled the And forgiveness washes all. amazing way we had come to live in this cozy Love is our home. old house. It had been given into our care by It’s fi lled with brothers and sisters, a sensitive woman who was touched by the Sharing what we have on our hearts, love and warmth of our people. Somehow Causing us to grow in love. she knew that she could trust us to care No more separation, or fear of rejection, for this pleasant house that circumstances For we have entered into prevented her from living in. She had no a simple love affair of the heart. idea, as she handed me the keys, that I had done the very same thing twelve years before. We hope someday to win her heart as well. Such is the way our life grows… organically… hearts touching hearts, passing on the faith that grafts each needy soul into the fruitful vine of our common life. Ours is not an easy life, but it is deeply satisfying. Love is our home, forgiveness the healing balm that makes our life sustainable. And as I watch my daughters grow into pure young women, full of passion for the kingdom we are building together, my heart over- fl ows with thankfulness for the lovingkindness of our God. He has proven Himself true to me for heeding these words: “He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant (John 12:25-26) p will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.” I hope my story will encourage you to come and serve the Master where He is.

–– Tabitha’s Place Sus, France

8 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 9 TESTIMONIES

As I grew up, I never could understand why my –– Eugene, OR 1973 parents were never satisfied Picking Strawberries with the churches we attended. ’70s

am a child of the ’70s. Childattending a Bible-believing churchof and communitiesthe in Oregon. There they I write that not just because I was holding a 9-5 job. shared a communal life planting trees, born in 1975, but because I am a He came to the place where many picking strawberries, and evangelizing product of the 1970s. I am the result of others with similar hopes and desires wherever and whenever they could. all that was in my father’s heart during came: the West Coast of America. Many But even that simple, promising life that time. The spark that was in him, other young people were fl ocking to proved to be disappointing, as soon the seed of hope that he had, all that the West Coast at that time, seeking to the Shiloh organization dissolved over he longed for he passed on to me. The be a part of something real. So many tax issues and questions about the au- burning desire he had in the ’70s went communities and ministries came into thority of the leadership. The commu- deep into me as a child and stayed being at that time; so many had hope nity members all went their separate with me as I grew up. to re-establish a simple devotion to ways. Burned out and disappointed, My father was a radical Christian Jesus just like the early believers in the eventually my parents and some other of the ’70s. He was one of the Book of Acts. They longed for a vibrant couples moved to the Midwest where zealous, eager 20-something-year- life, distanced from the hypocrisy and they tried to start their own house olds of that time that helped to bring lifelessness, the stale traditions that church and ministry for young Chris- about the Jesus Movement. A young they perceived in mainstream Chris- tian couples. Christian, he set out on a course to tianity. They longed for something As I grew up in the Midwest, my truly devote his life to God and sought true and genuine that wasn’t fake family visited literally dozens of church- for a place to pour out his appreciation and wouldn’t disappoint them. They es ranging the gamut of doctrine and for the message proclaimed to him. He wanted something real. denominational affi liation. I could not wanted more than to just settle into My father and mother met and understand why my parents were nev- the status-quo Christian experience of married in one of the Shiloh House er satisfi ed with any of the churches we

10 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 11 visited. Certainly a few of them were middle-class life wasn’t satisfying and of being purified to meet their com- good enough for me, since I had young wasn’t what I wanted; I knew there ing King. What intrigued me the most friends there and the atmosphere was was more to life than that. So I began wasn’t the doctrine I read about or exciting enough to satisfy my young seeking, searching, groping to find the even the lifestyle that was portrayed; heart. But looking back with more life truth. rather, it was the promise that there experience and a deeper understand- I knew that the truth wasn’t in the actually was a place where people ing of spiritual matters, I can see that mainstream Christian experience be- loved one another. It seemed like the with every step my parents were disap- cause it had never satisfied my father fulfillment of a dream or long-sought pointed. They weren’t finding anything and had never produced anything desire. that was satisfying or fulfilling. Never lasting in my life. So I began searching I had to go and see for myself again could they find that early spark, outside of the mainstream of Christian- whether what was written on that that promise of a life of togetherness ity — looking at the Messianic move- web site was true, or just another and love. They had tasted something ment, Seventh Day , house disappointment. Going there, I saw early on along the West Coast in the churches, and many other groups and that what they had written was true. It Jesus Movement and so desperately movements that were positioning wasn’t an exaggeration or something wanted it to be enduring and lasting. Over time, my parents stopped looking. They stopped searching and eventually drifted not only from their I had an innate sense that Jesus wasnt’ a part of the spiritual pursuit, but also from one another. Soon afterward they divorced. mainstream and that He never compelled others to join The years have ticked by. Now on his the mainstream. I knew that I would find Him and His s third marriage, my father has settled ’ for a Bible-believing church and the true followers outside of the camp. 70 middle-class American dream of own- ing his own business. He has settled for themselves outside of the mainstream. false: I found the life that so many longed that which he probably told himself he Somehow I had an innate sense that for in the Jesus Movement! I found what Child of the would never settle. Jesus wasn’t a part of the mainstream my father had looked so long for, but In the meantime, I went out on my and that He never compelled others had never come to realize. So I have own as a young adult and wanted to join the mainstream. I knew that He joined them and have come home to nothing to do with organized reli- couldn’t be found in the mainstream a community of people who love one gion due to the many overwhelming — I would find Him and His true fol- another with a simple love from the disappointments my family had suf- lowers outside of the camp. heart, a people who have connected fered within the ranks of the Christian After searching far and wide and with the Spirit that produces a life of churches. Deep down inside I still receiving many disappointments, true love and unity, based on the foun- believed in Jesus, but I could not bring I finally found what I was looking dation of the true . myself to go to church or participate for — not only what my father had This life is sustaining and enduring in what I knew had never satisfied searched for, but also what so many in and will not fade away. The spark of my parents and wouldn’t satisfy me. I the ’70s sought for in the Jesus Move- hope will not disappoint and will not drifted during high school and college, ment. Someone told me of a web site pass away. It is being kindled into a numb and detached from anything — www.commonwealthofisrael.org white-hot flame of love that will en- relating to the “Christian experience.” — that was written by a community of dure not only for the remainder of this But something stirred in my heart af- believers who followed the Messiah. age, but also for all eternity. Because ter graduating from college. Somehow With great interest and excitement it is truly founded on the Rock, it is a the hope that my father longed for in I devoured what was written there. hope you can put all of your trust in the ’70s had been passed on to me. I The life described on that site seemed and not be disappointed.p wanted to realize what he had never almost fantastic or unbelievable: a life truly found. I wanted the life described of togetherness where people daily lay in the Bible. Whatever the truth was, down their lives for one another and I wanted it. I knew that a successful also receive salvation with the hope Cal 10 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 11 White Bird

White bird, in a golden cage, captured the spirit of longing to be set on a winter’s day, in the rain. free — free from darkness and death White bird, in a golden cage, alone. and the troubles strangling mankind. Whatever the white bird was then The leaves blow, across the or is now, in her heart she had the long black road, inspiration to fly. But she had no way To the darkened skies, in its rage. to get out of the cage of this selfish But the white bird just sits in her cage, human race and decadent world. alone. An entire generation searched White bird must fly for the power and the author- ity to open that cage and let Or she will die the bird fly. Despite the identity White bird, dreams of the aspen trees, we took with that white bird and the with their dying leaves, turning gold. heartfelt hope we had that she would Thirty years of sunsets have come But the white bird just sits in her cage, fly, her destiny in the song was sadly and gone and all the Jesus Freaks are prophetic. growing old. back in the pews. Yes, “the sunsets You could say that bird was me; it White bird must fly or she will die. come, the sunsets go; the clouds pile was all my friends. She typified the White bird must fly or she will die. high, the air moves slow… and the whole Movement of the ‘60s and young bird’s eyes do always know… she The sunsets come, the sunsets go. the Jesus Movement that came after must fly, she must fly, she must fly.” The clouds pile high, it. Yes, all of us were trapped in the The white bird in that golden cage is the air moves slow. cage of human existence, waiting to the eternal hope that someday some- die, longing to fly. The world in 1969 And the young bird’s eyes one, no… some movement will break looked like a “winter’s day in the rain” do always know. out and fly, bringing a true demonstra- as the threat of nuclear war in the face She must fly, tion of love and of unity and of peace of the communism’s spread cast man’s to the earth. Yes, the “white bird must She must fly, future as uncertain as “the leaves [that] fly or she will die.” And if she dies, so will She must fly. blow across the long black road to the hope for all mankind. White bird, in a golden cage, darkened skies in its rage.” In the face The Messiah, the Son of God, prom- of such darkness “the white bird just On a winter’s day, in the rain. ised to return to earth to usher in an sits in her cage, alone.” In the end, the White bird, in a golden cage alone. age of peace on earth. But He will not people in the ’60s Movement were White bird must fly or she will die. come until the “white bird” flies and alone like everyone else, trapped in a proves to the world that God sent His White bird must fly or she will die. plastic society that glittered like gold, Son (John 17:20-23). Yes, the true move- White bird must fly or she will die. but was nothing more than a golden ment must come — a people living by cage that kept them from flying, from the love of God that has been poured ever getting off the ground. The world he haunting song “White Bird” out in their hearts. It must produce a was never changed into a new society Tsung by the musical group “It’s nation that bears the fruit of the com- established on the foundation of love. A Beautiful Day” in 1969 was sadly ing age – walking with one heart and Along came the Jesus Movement prophetic. Will its longing cry ever be one way, sharing everything they have with her hopes of “radicalizing” Chris- realized? together. Yes, it must come and it must tianity. Like the white bird’s “dreams of To a generation that was serious get off the ground before the world is the aspen trees, with their dying leaves, about changing the world, the image destroyed. The white bird must come turning gold,” so the dream of the Jesus of that white bird is imprinted some- out of her cage and be seen on the Movement proved to be a mystical where in the recesses of their minds. earth, flying, soaring in plain view for hope that never materialized. “The The imagery of that pure, fragile, in- all the nations to observe. She must do white bird just sits in her cage, growing nocent bird communicated soulfully to it! Yes, the “white bird must fly or she will old.” Yes, the song is true: “White bird a raised consciousness, full of hope for die… white bird must fly or she will die… must fly or she will die; white bird must a better world. The slow deep rhythm white bird must fly or she will die.” And if fly or she will die.” and the soft graceful lilt of the music she dies, all mankind will be lost.p

12 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 13 Yes,OOTS the hippie exterior eventually Rwore off, exposing the roots that were still there.

he energy, vision, and passion of right now!” We looked for a voice to one generation to the next. It’s a law. It the children of the ‘60s will never unite us. We thought we had heard never fails. Tbe forgotten. But there is one very big that voice, but our coming together In the ‘60s did you ever walk down question that has been debated but was only temporary. By the time we the street stoned out of your mind, perhaps unanswered... “Why did the reached thirty we had lost our fire. As thinking you were free from the Movement never get off the ground?” we young got older our need Establishment around you? Did you For most of us who were there it was for middle-class comforts began to ever ridicule the guy in the three-piece like being on an airplane, sitting on outweigh all the enlightenment we suit and laugh to yourself thinking the runway, with everyone in the plane had received. “Don’t trust anyone you were free? In the midst of a scene getting high while waiting for the over thirty” was a forewarning of what like this, did it ever dawn on you that plane to take off. We were high on the we’d be like when we reached thirty. you are just like him? To realize that summer of love, the hope of a better It proved to be true. Our voice was what’s in you is no different from what world, an awakening of our conscious- silenced after we got what our parents is in your parents is the first step to ness that expanded our horizons with wanted for us all along — security, the open door of freedom. The same vision for our planet. When we looked success, becoming a valuable asset to corrupt seed has produced the same out the windows all we could see was the prized heritage of middle-class selfish root in all of us. It doesn’t matter mist from the smoke that ascended America. We became a part of the whether we are comfortable business from our water pipes. So we couldn’t American Dream we had protested men or alternative hippies seeking a really tell whether we were off the against in our youth. Ever since that new and better way. That old root has ground yet. We seemed to be moving time our generation has tried to justify to be cut off and die and a new and down the runway, and everyone kept yuppie success or the compromise of incorruptible seed must be planted in assuring us that the plane would lift getting our own thirty-acre kingdoms. the human heart. This is the only hope off the ground at any moment. But We’re still scattered, confused travelers for mankind. that moment never came. When the stumbling through this life. We need a new seed that will grow smoke cleared and we looked out the Yes, the hippie exterior eventually into a radically new life. Jesus was the window, we realized that we were still wore off, exposing the roots that were first man who possessed that new on the ground. still there. The power to break free seed. He was the beginning of the The majority of the children of the from the rotten, selfish seed inside new creation that will come together ‘60s came from middle-class American our souls, passed on to us from our into a real unity. He has the power to families, with middle-class American middle-class fathers, was missing. It break the old root and give us a new roots and middle-class American val- was like wearing a mask that you think beginning. If anyone truly has Jesus’ ues ingrained in them since childhood. is really you, but when you pull it off, life and spirit breathed into him, he So everybody was frantically throwing you see that underneath the mask will be a new creation. He’ll be gath- off their parents’ values in an attempt you’re a business man just like your ered together with others who are to be free. Surely all the LSD trips, all daddy. After all is said and done the already gathered in a never-ending the intellectual enlightenment, all the love of money has proven to be the demonstration of love. The life in the swelling emotions charged by the failure of the Movement. No student first church in Jerusalem proved they meaningful songs of our prophets is greater than his teacher but when had this new seed in them. It is well were enough for us to create a newer he is fully trained he will be just like documented in Acts 2 and 4. Finding and better world. his teacher. You are what you are. You this life today is the only hope that will We all wanted to “come together, can’t escape the seed passed on from not disappoint.p

12 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 13 THE JESUS MOVEMENT SHATTERED

DREAMS Between 1967 and 1972 the Vietnam War caused a deep unrest in the youth of America to come to the surface. Along with the three assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Robert Kennedy in a five-year period (1963-1968), growing anti-war sentiment catapulted that restlessness into a movement that could not be contained. It broke out on the Berkeley campus through the Free Speech movement. Almost overnight, opposition to the war became the catalyst for speaking out against the infrastructure of Nixon America and the American culture.

14 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 15 t first it was not so clear that ticipated in “acid tests”, went to Merry the Free Speech Movement in Berkeley there was an underlying Pranksters events, “Human Be-Ins” in and took advantage of the opportu- A spiritual hunger in the youth of Golden Gate Park, Whole Earth Festi- nity to speak out on campus. They America. Their collective cry reverber- vals, Grateful Dead shows, and experi- latched onto the same themes of the ated feelings that “We are not our par- ments with communal living. ‘‘‘’60s and pointed the disillusioned ents,” “We are not university trustees,” But it didn’t take long for the dreams hippies to Jesus. These preachers had “We are not American capitalists,” and to shatter. The leadership of the Move- long hair, wore beads and blue jeans. “We do not want to die in a senseless ment was a disaster, old-fashioned Through their dark shades and hip talk, war.” They had given up on the values greed began to raise its ugly head, and they promised these searching young of past generations and were willing the LSD didn’t work. Drugs only eased people that Jesus would give them to strike a new course, even though love, he would solve their they did not know where problems and he would it would lead. They saw heal the damage from established as the failed Movement of having nothing and doing the radical hippies. nothing about the prob- These brand new “Je- lems they were concerned sus Freaks” heeded the about. The last thing they call, thinking they were wanted to do was to sit on being led out of the a pew and hear another camp of dead religion sermon that fueled the that had no answers and status quo of mainstream no life and into the camp American life. of Jesus where they There was also a very would find the love they strong reaction against were looking for. This the misuse of America’s was the real revolution… great wealth. The ‘‘‘’60s the Jesus Revolution! was the height of the em- They had finally found a pire, a time when the gov- life of love – Jesus’ love! It ernment and the people looked so real and it felt had access to the most so real to them. After all, money ever available. But these preachers were part in the eyes of this gen- of them, or so it seemed. eration, America’s wealth Gone was the rigid struc- was being squandered ture of organized religion building a war machine they had known growing and fattening the pockets up. They were not meeting of giant corporations while in church buildings but on many lived beneath beaches and in parks. the poverty line in a They weren’t singing near welfare state. The last thing they wanted to do was to sit stuffy old , but Neither the politicians their own music, with nor the preachers were on a pew and hear another sermon that fueled beautiful melodies doing anything to end played on acoustic the economic injustice the status quo of mainstream American life. guitars. Love, peace, this generation saw all and harmony were around them. This environment was the pain but didn’t change the reality. possible and they believed it couldn’t the hotbed of rebellion for that whole John Lennon’s song Imagine was only fail. They were getting high on Jesus generation. good ideas with no way to attain to and didn’t need anything else. There Love was the answer! LSD was the them. Free love didn’t last, so neither was a free-flowing stream of good feel- way! A revolution had begun! “Make did relationships. A lot of young people ings, good vibes, and praise to the Je- love, not war” was the philosophy that were deeply damaged by this. They still sus that made it happen. Yes! This was caused the youth at Berkeley and all wanted love. They wanted something real, and this was going to last forever. across the land to shed their parents’ radical. They wanted something real, The Jesus People thought they had values, their religion, and their Ameri- not just a utopian ideal. truly escaped the mainstream camp of can dream. They cast off restraint and Even before the hippie movement dead religion that Jesus said you had to followed their own dreams. In their crashed, the preachers were ready to leave in order to follow Him.1 However, search for a place to belong they par- cash in on it. They, too, showed up for as time went on, the beach ministries 14 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 15 moved into buildings and things began divided camp themselves.2 The Jesus religion. Now that the Jesus Movement to shift back toward what the Jesus Movement was no exception. This is the has proven to be just a more stream- Freaks thought they had left behind. history and legacy of Christianity. lined, contemporary expression of the Some old skeletons began to raise their But the spirit of Christianity is a pow- divided and corrupt religious camp ugly heads. More than a most thought they few fell into sexual im- were leaving behind, morality, and the age-old “The more spiritual a person becomes, the less it would be fair to plague handed down for ask old Jesus Freaks if generations in Christen- denominational he is. We should realize that they got hoodwinked dom – division. into smoking the History is a great we’re all part of the Body of Christ and that spiritual opium that teacher, if we will pay there aren’t any real divisions in the Body. sedates the masses. attention. Time and time Getting high on Je- again, the voice that has We’re all one.” – sus has, 30 years later, led disillusioned believ- led the throngs of ers out of their dead people “saved” in the churches has not had the erful drug. Even though it doesn’t have Jesus Movement back into the status authority to restore the church to the the authority to call anyone out of the quo. In fact, the Jesus Movement has dynamic life of love it once had in the camp, it does seduce those in its ranks become the status quo for thousands beginning. It has not had the power or into accepting the old established in mainstream America. The spirit that the authority to call people outside the norms of society and camp and into the place where Jesus is, because those making the call are entrenched inside the

16 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 17 used to burn people at the stake for to the traditions and ways of the world be a witness of love demonstrated in disagreeing with the favored denomi- around them. These drugged followers hundreds of communities that are in nation now numbs its followers to the accept ’s kissing the ring true unity, at least not until Jesus comes point that they don’t even notice when of the Pope. They accept their pastors back. If this is true, it means that the others divide. Chuck Smith, the founder committing adultery without stepping Holy Spirit is not great enough to bring of Calvary Chapel, deals this about John 17:23, so drug regularly to his follow- another spirit leads Chris- ers. He even says it right True sheep hear His voice and they never tians to just overlook on his website: “The more their differences. spiritual a person becomes, quite get high on the spirit that tells them But Jesus prophesied the less denominational he division in the church doesn’t matter. that a visible witness is. We should realize that of the kingdom will be we’re all part of the Body raised up in the last days of Christ and that there down. They barely muster the strength to be a light to the na- aren’t any real divisions in the Body. to discipline priests who sexually abuse tions that puts the evidence of God’s We’re all one.” Now that spirit isn’t children. This is the ecumenical spirit love before all the nations – and then allowed to kill people who disagree, that is taking over the world. and only then will the end come. When so it must be content to sedate them True sheep know they are trapped this happens, it will be a Jesus move- into staying inside the camp, becom- by this spirit in Christianity but they ment that never ends, that will not be ing ever more comfortably conformed don’t see a way out. Always, always, given to another people.3 When God always the tendency is to believe it raises up true messengers on the earth can’t happen, that there can’t that are actually sent by Him, they will have the authority to call His sheep out of the divided camp of lifeless religion, just as Abraham, Moses, John the Bap- tist, and Jesus Himself did. This is the voice of the true Shepherd that has authority to save people from their sins and from this wicked and perverse society.4 This voice is the one that will give hope to old Jesus Freaks if they still have a nagging con- science about what the Jesus Movement has become. True sheep have nagging dissent in their heart – not rebellion, but dissent — because they really want to do God’s will. True sheep hear His voice and they never quite get high on the spirit that tells them division in the church doesn’t matter. They know they are lonely and that they really don’t have the radical life Jesus called His disciples to spend their lives establishing.5u

1 Mt 21:43; Heb 13:13 2 Jn 12:26 3 Dan 2:44 4 Acts 2:37-42 5 Mt 24:13-14

16 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 17 Why the Jesus Movement Never Got Off the Ground The Jesus Movement of the late ’60s and early ’70s was a spiritual phenomenon, the culmination of social, spiritual, and political unrest for Americans and indeed for most western cultures of the world. . .

ts vibrancy and vision held the and formality, but devoid of life. The and their devotion to the apostles’ promise for spiritual renewal and Jesus Movement did not take them teaching began to diminish. In all of Ilighted the way for many disillu- back to the original way. It tried to their communities everywhere, people sioned young people who felt trapped revive the life of Acts 2 and 4 without became silent towards each other with within the religious ranks of estab- restoring the foundation it was built their many offenses and divisions. lished Christianity. The fire and passion upon. They failed to stimulate one another of the Jesus Movement could hardly How the Way was Lost Long Ago daily to love and good deeds to bring be ignored as hundreds of thousands There was a process, a transition be- grace and encouragement to each flocked together to form communi- tween the way of the original church other.7 They went on in pretense and ties, coffee houses, and street minis- and the way of Christianity today, but form in their gatherings, and the Holy tries throughout North America and the critical change occurred long ago. Spirit was quenched.8 abroad. It offered hope for an answer The first-century church was When the first-century church lost to the declining moral and spiritual founded on love and thrived on their outspokenness, they not only climate in society at large. prophecy — the strengthening, en- lost their freedom to speak, but their The Jesus Movement shot off with a couragement, and comfort2 that came lampstand as well.9 No longer was “bang”, but like an airplane revving its from the words they spoke to one this church the Body of Messiah, but it faulty engines, readying for take-off, it another. The revelation they received became10 an organized, religious insti- was doomed before it could even lift kept the church alive with vision and tution. Between the years AD 100 and off the ground. Although it seemed understanding. Prophecy was instruc- 500 the original pattern of the church to take off, when the smoke cleared tion for the church to hold fast their is documented as having “changed they were still right where they started confidence and boast in Christ, as almost beyond recognition.”11 In the — just going to church on Sunday. expressed through their outspoken- midst of this institutional atmosphere Now, some thirty years later, many ness and freedom to speak publicly the Nicolaitans12 (the main spokes- feel their souls devastated, wondering in the assembly (unhesitating, with men) among them found opportunity about the gospel they put their trust frankness, candidness, and without to gain an advantage. As apathy and in. It had promised life, but in reality it reservation) thus proving themselves indifference drifted in, these self-ap- proved to be an empty promise. Much to be God’s House. 3 In so doing they pointed leaders usurped Christ in the like the Hippie-crits,1 they have settled would speak the very utterances of heart of each member. What devel- into a life of compromise and the false God,4 and the church would continue oped out of the Nicolaitan influence comfort of materialism – the very to progress on the foundation that was was the clergy-laity system called things they once hated with a passion. laid by the apostles and prophets.5 If Christianity. Their spiritual lives are permeated with all prophesied, when an unbeliever The Clergy-Laity System the same old complacency as that of came into their gatherings he would The clergy-laity system is in direct their fathers, having accepted a reli- be convicted by all he heard.6 contradiction to how the Body of gion steeped in man-made tradition However, their love for each other Christ was supposed to function.13 God 1 Hippie-crit – a former hippie from the 7 Heb 3:13; 10:23-25; 12:14-15 foundation laid by the early apostles Hippie Movement who has returned 8 Eph 4:29-32 was destroyed by these “deceitful to the basic values and lifestyle of the 9 Rev 2:1,4,5 workers” (2 Cor 11:13) and replaced “establishment” he once despised. 10 Became in Rev 18:2 implies transition. with an entirely new foundation and 2 1 Cor 14:3 Transition took place when the first presentation of the gospel. 3 Heb 3:6; 1 Cor 14:26; Ps 116; Heb 2:12; communities died out, but false apos- 11 The Lion Book of Christian Thought, Eph 3:12 tles continued preaching a distorted by Tony Lane, p. 8 4 1 Pet 4:11 gospel, but within the new context of 12 Rev 2:6,15 5 Eph 2:20-22 an organized, Nicolaitan system of 13 1 Cor 14:24-26; Rev 2:6,15 6 1 Cor 14:24-25 clergy-laity. The original pattern and 18 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 19 cannot and will not dwell wherever century apostate24 leaders within the 14 Mt 7:21-23 this system exists – even if it is pro- church had conquered the people. 15 Mt 16:6-12; 23:1-36; claimed in His Name. He does not rec- They did so by taking the message of Lk 11:39-44,52,53,54 ognize or acknowledge it.14 Just as the truth, the gospel of salvation, out of 16 But read for yourself what God has religious leaders of Judaism refused to the hands of true apostles and distort- said in Rev 2:6,15 about the clergy- accept Christ’s judgment15 that their ing it by craft and cunning, disguising laity system and His judgment of an religion was a dead system built on themselves as ministers of righteous- adulterous church, Rev 18:9-10. legalities and man-made traditions, so ness.25 Seeking their own glory, they 17 Acts 2:44-47; 4:32-35 it has been with Christendom down desired to create a following and a 18 Rom 11:22 through the centuries.16 Despite their name for themselves.26 They spread 19 Rev 2:5 self-confidence, the there is no record a false Jesus and a false gospel which 20 Lampstand means the light of the Holy that the vibrant life of the first-century eventually destroyed the simple devo- Spirit’s presence and the revelation He church, as described in the book of tion and purity to Christ and to the gave in that church locality. When the Acts,17 lasted into the second century. apostles.27 This is how the First Church lampstand was removed, the presence The early church fell and was cut off was deceived, even as the first Eve fell. of the Holy Spirit and the revelation from grace,18 losing their lampstand19 Towards the latter end of the first He gave to their hearts and minds of illumination.20 Since they did not century, the Nicolaitan leaders brought was taken out of that location for the remain on the rock Peter was on, the church as a whole into apostasy. church. being obedient to the Master and An apostate is a person who is no 21 Mt 16:16-17; Jn 14:21; Mk 10:28 receiving revelation from Him,21 Jesus’ longer devoted to the apostles and 22 Mt 16:18 promise no longer applied to them: their teaching. He does not stand in 23 3 Jn 1:9-10; Rev 2:6,15 they ceased to be the church which agreement with them, but is disloyal, 24 An apostate is one who is no longer de- the gates of hell would not prevail wanting to bring another anointing voted to the apostles and their teaching. against.22 The voice and spirit of its contrary to that of the apostles.28 25 2 Cor 11:13-15 members had been silenced.23 Diotrephes, the man John writes 26 Acts 20:28-30; Gal 1:6-9; 2 Pet 2:1-3; Deceitful Workers about in his third letter, is an example 2 Cor 11:13; Phil 1:15,17 Nicolaitan literally means, “Conquer of an apostate or Nicolaitan type. He 27 2 Cor 11:2-3 the people,” and so it was with the was turning people against John, and 28 1 Jn 2:24-27 original church. By the end of the first would put people out of the church

The Jesus Movement shot off with a “bang”, but like an airplane revving its faulty engines, readying for take- off, it was doomed before it could even lift off the ground.

18 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 19 who were loyal to the apostles. He to a city or megalopolis) stand in stark ostolic grace, each individual found his loved to be first among the brothers contrast to the original blueprint of place so as to function within the one and would not accept what John had how the living church community was body,43 each part giving what it had for to say. He did not submit himself to to be established according to what the common good of the whole body.44 or acknowledge apostolic authority. Christ and the apostles themselves Community is what de-mystifies the He unjustly accused the apostles with commanded.33 Community, as estab- Body of Christ. It is the visible, tangible wicked words and would not receive lished by the apostles as a result of result of Ephesians 4:11-16 — the Body those sent to the church by the apos- love being poured out in the hearts being perfected in love for all the tles, and he forbade all who desired to of the disciples,34 is what made the world to see. do so. It seems that John had written a distinction between those who served Fruit of the Kingdom, a Nation of letter of instruction to the church, but Him and those who did not.35 Those Twelve Tribes Diotrephes refused to read it. who believed their message were saw the state of the Such was the power struggle that completely devoted to Christ and the religion of Judaism and publicly ex- went on among the false leaders in the apostles.36 They contributed all their communicated all Israel, calling them early church. That is why Peter wrote wealth, time, energies, and possessions to repentance and baptism (normally a universal letter to be read to the as an expression of their love for their a practice for Gentiles converting to churches about the quality of leader- Savior to build up the Body of Christ.37 Judaism). John did this in readiness for ship and who was approved and who This was their “new life” in Christ. They the coming Messiah and His King- wasn’t.29 Diotrephes and men like him were consumed with a zeal for His dom.45 He told the Pharisees, “Even were obviously not those who proved House, and as a result it turned the now the axe is laid to the root of the themselves examples to the flock, but world upside down.38 trees [referring to Old Israel and the rather those who sought for sordid Outside the Camp religious system of Judaism], therefore, gain, and were disapproved by our Just as Jesus had to go outside the every tree that does not bear good Father.30 camp of Judaism to provide the means fruit is cut down and thrown into the These men produced the religious of salvation and the forgiveness of sins, fire.” The religion of Judaism did not system that is rooted in division in the same way one must go outside bear the fruit of a good tree,46 and was and deception, holding to a form of the camp of Christianity to find the destined for the fire.47 godliness, but denying the power vibrant community life Jesus gives Jesus knew that in order to bear that of the Holy Spirit to create unity.31 to those who follow Him. Although fruit,48 there would have to be a res- The nature of organized religion is Christ’s life is so central to the teach- toration of a spiritual nation of twelve revealed through its denominational ings of Christianity, His life cannot be tribes.49 This was clearly burning in His schisms. The church system spawned incarnated39 or embodied40 within that heart when He called twelve men to be by Diotrephes and the like is controlled “camp.”41 His disciples and to serve by His side as by an authority structure that hobnobs In Christianity the presentation of foundational stones on which a whole with the governments of this world.32 Christ is targeted for the individual, new nation could be established that There are no longer prophets or and the Scriptures are interpreted for would accomplish God’s intent. apostles, let alone a simple devotion to the effect they have upon the indi- Jesus always had the vision of Israel’s the Lord. vidual. However, when the gospel was original intended purpose.50 He was Repairing the Breach of 1900 Years first preached by Peter on the Day of willing to count the cost and make the — Going Back to the Blueprints Pentecost, the outcome of obeying it personal sacrifice to see it happen. In The only way back to God is to was community. The life of Jesus Christ His baptism by John, Jesus separated return to His original purpose and plan. could not be found apart from the Himself from the apostate system of The vast and complex infrastructures expression of a corporeal body.42 There, Judaism.51 He knew that it could not of Christianity (which could be likened within community established by ap- achieve the purpose of being the wit-

29 1 Pet 5:1-5; 1 Cor 11:19 bodily and especially human nature 44 1 Cor 12:4-14 30 2 Cor 11:13-15 and form, made physically manifest by 45 Mal 3:1; Lk 1:17 31 2 Tim 3:5,13; 2 Cor 11:2-4,13-15 spirit or comprehensible. 46 Mal 1:8-10; 4:6 32 Rev 18:3 40 Embodied – to give a body to a spirit 47 Lk 3:7-10; Mt 3:10 33 Mt 28:18-20; Acts 2 & 4, etc. or to make concrete and perceptible; 48 Mal 3:3-4; Gen 18:19 34 Romans 5:5 to represent or express something 49 Mk 9:12-13; Mt 17:11; 21:43; 24:14; For 35 Mal 3:16-18; Jn 12:25-26 abstract in tangible form. more information about the necessity 36 Jn 17:20 41 Mt 21:43; Heb 13:13 of the church being twelve tribes, see 37 Acts 2:40-47 42 Corporeal – having material or physical the article, The Foolish Nation, page42 38 Acts 17:6 form or substance; consisting of or 50 Lk 4:43; Ex 19:5-6; Isa 49:6; 39 Incarnate – make concrete and real, relating to a physical, material body. Isa 53:10-11 represent in bodily form, invested with 43 Eph 4:4-7 51 Mt 3:13-15 20 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 21 ness of the Kingdom of God before the to remain inside the camp of organized devoted to Him.65 The work of apostles nations of the world.52 religion. But true faith in Christ is dem- brings into existence the evidence of Later, when Jesus confronted the onstrated through obedience to the Jesus’ victory over death and Satan. Jews concerning how they treated the apostles’ demands of discipleship and The Body of Messiah is the material, prophets sent to Israel,53 He concluded all that Christ commanded.59 visible oneness that will convict the by telling them that the Kingdom was It takes apostolic grace and author- world. It is not mystical. In community going to be taken away from them and ity to bring about a visible demonstra- there are countless opportunities daily given to a nation producing the fruit of tion of Christ’s life through commu- to carry out all that Jesus command- it.54 The Jews had failed to accomplish nity.60 The proof that the apostles are ed66 and through this the world can see their intended purpose in being a holy true representatives of Christ is in those the witness of the Kingdom.67 It is the nation.55 Rather, it had developed into who receive their message and bear outcome of His life lived out in love and something that actually opposed God’s the fruit of love and unity.61 There is a obedience that proves to the world purpose. They had turned their religion bond of affection and loyalty created that God has indeed sent His Son. into a powerful man-made hierarchy between the one who hears faith and Those who receive the apostles’ words that was favored by Rome. the one who speaks it. The good news will be the ones who carry out the Even though God’s commands and is not just receiving the message, but will and pleasure of Christ.68 Apostles laws were central to Judaism, the life also receiving the messenger as Christ are set apart, chosen to carry out the and Spirit of God was simply not there. Himself.62 That is why it says in Acts 2: administration of our Father’s will on The proof is that they killed Jesus 42 that those who received the gospel earth.69 They establish His House70 and and thought they were doing God a were devoted to the apostles and their maintain its development into the na- service.56 Under the guise of piety, the teaching, to fellowship, breaking of tion Christ spoke of in Matthew 21:43. same spirit of those religious leaders of bread, and . Some translations Apostles have the God-given grace Judaism is present inside the camp of mention that they were devoted to the and authority to bring others into obe- Christianity today. If anyone disagrees apostles’ teaching and their fellow- dience to the faith of Christ.71 This obe- with or makes a claim to having any ship. How indebted would a person dience is what produces community. authority or credibility outside her be to the one who brought them the The authentic documentation of this is ranks, they are quickly branded as a message of life and the forgiveness of recorded in Acts 2:37-47 and 4:32-42. “cult” and must either conform to the sins?63 How grateful would a person Through their words, apostles minis- “norm” or are considered anathema be, having escaped his sin and the ter grace to cause one to believe and (accursed). Jesus knew He had to go pollution of the world to come into to give him the faith to obey.72 Faith outside this camp if He were to ever Messiah’s life in community? What comes by hearing. However, unless establish the Kingdom of God.57 freedom it would be to no longer live someone is sent with the authority to What the Jesus Movement Lacked: for yourself, but for Him who died and proclaim the gospel, no one can hear the Grace and Authority rose on your behalf!64 it.73 Being sent out as one who repre- of Apostleship Apostles are the living examples of sents Christ involves being under the In Christianity today the gospel is the community churches they estab- authority of the one who sends. This presented by those who pay lip service lish. Their lives express the essence of means no one can just send himself, to Christ and His commands while sub- love, poured out daily in their devotion but he must be discipled and prepared tly endorsing conformity to the world. to all the saints. They are wise master for this ministry by those who have the They do not call anyone outside the builders and lay a solid foundation of authority to send. Apostles are sent gates, 58 but encourage their followers Christ’s life in a people set apart and ones. They are sent out as messengers

52 Mt 24:14 the gospel’s demands include Abraham 60 Rom 1:5 53 Mt 21:33-46 leaving Ur (the world) and the gods of 61 1 Jn 3:14,16; Jn 14:21; 13:34-35; 54 Mt 21:43; In the same way, the Babylon to initiate the establishment of Jn 17:23; 1 Cor 9:1-2; 2 Cor 3:2-6 Kingdom of Israel (as a type of Mt 21: the set-apart nation of Israel. Moses as 62 Jn 13:20 43) was taken from their first King, well, leaving the riches of Egypt, choos- 63 2 Cor 5:18-21 Saul. It was given to another man bet- ing rather to endure ill treatment with 64 2 Cor 5:15 ter than he – one who would do all his the nation of Israel than to enjoy the 65 1 Cor 3:10-17; 1 Cor 12:12,28 will. David was a man after God’s own passing pleasures of Pharaoh’s court. 66 Mt 28:20 heart. David fought to bring peace to He considered the reproach of obeying 67 Mt 12:25-29; Mt 24:14 Israel from all its enemies, and then God, greater riches than all the trea- 68 Isa 53:10-11 God gave Him the “blueprint” to build sures of Egypt for he was looking to a 69 Eph 3:8-9 the temple. greater reward (Heb 11:24-27) 70 Eph 2:19-22; 1 Tim 3:15; 1 Cor 3:10 55 Ex 19:5-6; Isa 49:6 58 Heb 13:13; Rom 12:2 71 Rom 1:5 56 Jn 16:2-3 59 Mt 10:34-39; Lk 14:26-33; 72 Jn 17:20; Eph 2:8 57 Other examples of scriptural types of Mk 10:29-30 73 Rom 10:14-17 20 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 21 to present the full gospel of Christ and cally given to the apostles, and they earth, bringing all into the obedience to establish His life in a people. were the ones responsible for teaching of faith in Christ.80 No one can confidently say he has the communities they established to What is the fruit of the Jesus been saved by grace through faith obey all that Christ commanded.78 The Movement now some thirty years when no messenger has later? You can’t help but yet been sent to com- Much like the Hippie-crits, they have settled into a ask this question and mand him to believe in life of compromise and the false comfort of materialism ponder in your heart what and obey the gospel. it was all intended to bring In the first century, the – the very things they once hated with a passion. about. Everything you church grew in number have ever wanted in Jesus by receiving the messenger and his authority of apostleship was missing is to be found within the context of message. You have to receive a real, in the Jesus Movement. This is evi- true apostolic community. It is where live human being as the representative dent from the fact that the ranks of He is and it is where He can be served, of Christ.74 The was the Jesus Movement have ended up and it is where He honors those who given to the apostles, giving them all in the pews listening to the preacher serve Him.81 p authority to make disciples of all the once again. Those who are disgruntled nations.75 The gift of apostleship ex- Christians from the Jesus Movement 74 tends to the end of this age, and it will know this better than anyone. Without Mt 10:40; Lk 10:16; Jn 13:20; Mk 9:37 75 be at the end of this age that complete apostleship, there is no way to go out- Mt 28:18-20 76 of the church will come.76 side the camp of Christianity to where Mt 28:20; Dan 2:44-45; Isa 49:6; Paul told the Romans that he had Christ is. He isn’t inside her gates, but Mt 24:14 79 77 received “grace and apostleship to bring is outside this camp. We have to go Rom 1:5 78 about obedience to the faith for the sake where He is, and that is only made pos- Mt 28:20 79 of His name among all the nations.” 77 sible through the authority and grace Heb 13:12-13 80 Commissioned of apostleship. It is given to them to 1 Cor 12:12 81 The Great Commission was specifi- establish the embodiment of Christ on John 12:25,26

Although the Jesus Movement seemed to take off, when the smoke cleared they were still right where they started — just going to church on Sunday.

22 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 23 THE ’60S MOVEMENT

ir More had his them because deep inside we S tongue in his cheek all wanted that idealistic life to when he wrote about be real. Somewhere along Utopia. He was kidding the line we decided that when he described utopia must be possible. his “perfect” island So with all ardor and where everything enthusiasm, we made was ideal. The our plans, dreamed our very name, utopia, dreams, and set out to means “no place” find a place for our own — the nonexistent free society. We could not land of man’s dreams. find an island like in More’s But no one told us that 16th century dream, but we utopia wasn’t real. Even if they settled for something a little bit had, we wouldn’t have believed less — Haight Ashbury!

22 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 23 What magic these two words had Atlanta, and an endless procession cions have been allayed. This together- in our minds! A society of free young ever since! All day and night the music ness is what we wanted and what we spirits founded on love, peace, and rocked and rolled on & on. We listened thought we had found. freedom, where equality and fraternity with remarkable fortitude for days. This was the life of the flower could just be! From far and near we At the festivals we could sense what children, the beautiful people. If we grabbed our backpacks and left home. seemed to be the endless love we had needed anything, we would just ask We dropped out of school and hit the always hoped for. In fact, a revolution someone. If they had it, they would road. of love was beginning. We could feel share it. If they didn’t, no one thought By air, foot, bikes, or hitching, it everywhere. The world would never any less of them. We panhandled to be the same. We were determined to meet pressing needs and sold our art our 20th century exodus had make this hope, this life, this together- to the curious. But, it was the curi- begun. Our Moses was Timothy ness last forever. ous from plastic mainstream America Joan Baez called it togetherness, that began to undermine our utopia. Leary. Our Promised Land and she was right. Men and women Tourists arrived by the thousands. They was San Francisco across throughout all generations have been looked at us “hippies” the way kids looking for that bond of love that look at giant pandas in the zoo. the Golden Gate. would make them one. The desire for “Look, a real live hippie.” an end to estrangement and hostil- “He’s got nice eyes.” When we arrived, we were ac- ity runs deep in the human soul. The “He stinks. Let’s buy some beads.” cepted. No one asked any questions. toughest nut will crack under the These sensation-seeking middle- No one made any demands. No one right pressure and the hardest heart class American tourists with their was watching. No one had to prove will yield to love, understanding, and pudgy stomachs swamped the seren- anything. We were ity and devoured the distinctiveness of just ourselves and our youthful dream on Haight Street. everyone was happy. As time went on, we flower children We were really liv- become more and more the center ing our dreams. We of attention and a phenomenon could come and go the media quickly exploited. Things as we pleased. We started getting crazy as more and could wear what we more people came to San Francisco pleased. There were and the good vibes produced by no deadlines, no Orange Sunshine began to give way to grades, no projects, paranoia and an increased fear of “The no points to score. Man.” The Buffalo Springfield captured We did not care this sense with these words from their about money, no one famous song, For What It’s Worth… was trying to impress, material things didn’t Paranoia strikes deep. matter. Only people Into your life it will creep. mattered. Easy alli- It starts when you’re always afraid. ances were formed. Step out of line the man comes and Love was free. No takes you away. demands. No com- You better stop now. What’s that mitment. Old taboos sound? were ignored, barriers Everybody look what’s going down! knocked down and spirits were high. Old-fashioned greed began to show No one was killing its ugly head among us, and we began anybody, and people to insist on our rights and our own were beautiful. individualities. It didn’t take long for It happened in many of us to see what was coming. Monterey, June 1967. The first Rock a little kindness. The most estranged Heroin and speed dealers moved into festival was born, giving birth to and antagonistic person will respond the Haight, the riot squad invaded our Woodstock, Isle of Wight, Altamont, to interest and concern, once his suspi- district, beating anyone they could

24 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 25 THE ’60S MOVEMENT find, and the utopian state sank in a authority that says, “Don’t do as I do, fully trained.” So all we could see was pool of blood when the killing started. but do as I say.” What was needed was another form of Christianity. The peace we thought was ours began good authority to make it happen! So what’s the use getting our hopes slipping away as an elusive dream. We needed leaders who could lead us up in one more empty sermon? Who Like everywhere else and everyone by their example and who wouldn’t wants to claim to see like the blind else, we, the “love people” and “peace compromise. teachers leading us? “If the blind lead people,” were see- the blind, they will both ing in ourselves end up in the ditch.” the same rotten Can their Jesus save seed we thought others when he we’d left back can’t save them? home. And if they are just But where saved from hell but could we go and not saved from this what could we wicked society, who do now? Go back wants that salvation home? No! We anyway? We aren’t had made a few blind! A plastic mistakes, but the Jesus who makes dream was still at- his plastic converts tainable. It became comfortable in a plas- clear that the tic society headed for peace we wanted destruction is what we couldn’t be found detested and despised. in the city. So we The utter failure of this headed for the hills. “salvation” was the very Alternative people cause of our rebellion. USA! We would do it! There Their failure to produce is hope! We will make it! There is the “utopia” they spoke of is true love and true peace! A guru will We wanted to conquer the what drove us to Haight Ashbury in the show us the way! Which one should world with love and bring first place! we follow? Who offers the best vibra- So now where are we to look and tions? Everybody seemed to have their the healing balm of peace to in what place can we find a hope own answer, their own separate trip. this earth, but there was no that does not disappoint us? Where As we went down endless roads is the real love of God that can fill wherever our own trips led us, there foundation, no blueprint to our hearts?1 Preachers or teachers was an increasing sadness growing in bring our vision into a lasting who promise us that we can know our hearts, a sadness brought about the Source of love and the Author of because most of our dreams and vi- demonstration. Our love failed. peace and the meaning of Truth, but sions proved to be unattainable. The are divided among themselves, cannot highs went away and our experiments Some people turned to Jesus in communicate love, peace, and unity with community failed. search of this foundation of love. The to anyone’s conscience. Mere mental Then, we began to ask the question, Jesus of the Jesus People seemed hip concepts are all they can offer since “What is the use of anything at all?” enough, but didn’t have the power to they have a life filled with the same old The reality of people living in peace bring about the life either. We turned selfishness and greed that we took to and unity as God intended is what we on the TV and heard Christian preach- Haight Ashbury. were looking for. But we needed to ers talking about how we should live So where do we go from here? I’m know how to find it. Our generation — something we knew that they knew so tired of chasing after rainbows only is going mad because we can’t find it nothing about. A life of love and unity to find a false light at the end of my after thirty years of looking for it. We is what they promised, but we knew journey. How can I ever find my elusive hated authority because the author- we were not going to get it because dream?p ity we observed growing up was filled those making the promises weren’t do- with hypocrisy, prejudice, and glory ing it either. Someone said, “A student 1 Romans 5:5 seeking. We had our fill of the kind of will be like his teacher when he is

24 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 25 A PARABLE

The Original What does a multi-national, billion-dollar corporation McDonalds have in common with a little World War II was over, and the little the yearly sales records and saw that sandwich shop on the corner of 14th and 80% of their sales had been hamburg- drive-in sandwich shop that E Streets was hopping. Not only were the ers. So, he and his brother had an idea to carhops hopping to and fro amongst the make a new streamlined “speedy service used to be in downtown San many cars that packed the parking lot, system” selling 15-cent hamburgers and there was also a continual stream of hot 10-cent fries using the principles of mass Bernardino, or today’s rods cruising slowly in one side, around production. behind, and then back out the front on They closed their carhop restaurant the other side of the parking lot. It was and reopened with great success at the churches with the original one Saturday night at the McDonald Broth- end of the year, as just plain “McDon- ers’ drive-in restaurant in downtown San ald’s.” They bragged right on the sign the apostles began? Bernardino, California. Postwar glee fi lled about how many burgers they were sell- the air. ing. They were so successful that within And as the busy days became even fi ve years they had opened four more busier the McDonald brothers wanted “McDonald’s” in nearby towns. to make a change. There had been 20 They wanted to serve the many young carhops and 25 items on the menu… postwar families with an inexpensive and too many teenagers… and too much and quick meal (later to be termed “fast trouble. food”). People who knew the McDonald In 1948 Richard McDonald looked at brothers said they were very good men, 26 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 27 who cared well for their employees. Thus began the bitter relationship today I saw the place where the first They put up their double golden arch- between the milkshake machine sales- McDonald’s was.” If someone were es at the end of 1953 as a trademark of man and the original McDonald broth- by chance to contest, saying that one happy success. ers. It got to the point that for a while sweltering hot night just after World Then along came the “friendly” he even denied that the real McDonald War II he personally drove through milkshake machine salesman from Des brothers ever existed. the crowded parking lot on 14th and E Plaines, Illinois, in the fall of 1954. His The little shop on 14th and E soon Streets and ordered a burger from the curiosity had been aroused when these slipped into anonymity under the smiling McDonald brothers, and tasted brothers kept ordering more and more title “The Big M.” But to make matters a cool milkshake, his protest would of his machines. He decided to go out worse, a new bright, shiny “golden go unheard. “I know, that I know, that to California and see for himself why arches” was erected just one block I know…. I saw with my own eyes the they were making so many milkshakes. away, as the milkshake machine sales- place in Des Plaines, Illinois, where the He was very business minded and man opened a new location right in first McDonald’s started!” would be the immediately saw in these brothers the the face of the struggling McDonald reply. possibility of a very successful business brothers. The small band of employ- So, does history not matter any- opportunity. He convinced them to let him franchise “McDonald’s” for them. They reluctantly agreed and the milk- The Bible says “All who believed were together and had all things in common. shake machine salesman hurried back There were no needy among them.” That was the authentic church – the first one. to Illinois to get to work. He opened “an exact copy” of the restaurant the ees remained faithful to the brothers more? McDonald brothers had on 14th and until the day the doors closed seven Finding the original, the “first one”, is E, calling it “McDonald’s #1”… but by years later. Old “Mac” McDonald died really important when you are trying to this time the brothers had themselves three years later in 1971 with few to authenticate something. It is interest- opened several other places near San acknowledge any great achievements. ing to know the roots of the thousands Bernardino. It became evident that the But thirteen years later, many mourned of “golden arches” that dot this planet. milkshake machine salesman was tak- when the milkshake machine salesman But what about the millions of golden ing off on his own, using the McDonald died. It was headline news that the crosses that fill the skyline of every ma- brothers’ business creation for his own genius behind McDonald’s had passed jor city in the western world? Has there goals. away. And perhaps he was the “genius”, been an equally bitter cut between Six years later it was obvious to but not the heart. them and the authentic “first one”? him the gold mine that he had found. It was not until 1992 that the Mc- The churches of today boast of starting So the milkshake machine salesman Donald’s Corporation was finally forced with an authentic Savior two thou- offered the brothers a deal they could to acknowledge the existence and sand years ago, with twelve authentic not turn down. In 1961 he offered them validity of the remaining McDonald apostles who knew Him personally. a little over a million dollars each to brother and his claims. A representa- But wouldn’t those twelve apostles, buy out the franchise. They agreed to tive from the McDonald’s Corporation like the old McDonald brothers, tell the deal only on the stipulation that came to 14th and E Streets admitting a much different story of the “first they would be allowed to keep running that this was in fact the site of the first one” when talking about the churches their first very prosperous location on restaurant and presented the remain- we see today on every street corner? 14th and E Streets for themselves and ing brother, Richard McDonald, a small Those twelve apostles started the “first their faithful employees. The broth- plaque of honor to be placed there. one”, and there is a vivid description ers wanted to give each employee a The facts were indisputable, the wit- of what the “first one” looked like and part of the business as a reward for nesses were irrefutable, but there was how it was run. All the things those first their hard work. But to the McDonald no great fanfare that day at 14th and E twelve did were carefully recorded in brothers’ surprise, once the deal was Streets. The old ramshackle building the Bible in the book that was named signed a construction crew arrived at that stands on the spot was converted after them, called “the Acts (what they their restaurant and took down their to a dingy homegrown-style muse- did) of the Apostles.” It says, ALL those “McDonald’s” sign, the golden arches, um… that no one goes to... and old Mr. who believed were TOGETHER, and and any other McDonald’s insignia. McDonald died a poor man with little had ALL things in COMMON. There They were informed that they would consolation. were no needy among them for they not be allowed to call their restaurant Yet in Des Plaines, Illinois, is a sold their possessions and gave to anything that resembled the name state-of-the-art museum on the spot those who had need….1 The twelve “McDonald’s”, which was now locked where the milkshake machine sales- apostles started the church and that is under legal trademark. Many of the men opened his “McDonald’s #1”. It is how they lived. That was the authentic p other things within the restaurant that shiny and boasts of great accomplish- one — the “first one.”p they created were now also barred ments. Those who pass by there will from their own usage. from then on confidently say, “Hey, 1 Acts 2:44-47 and 4:32-35 26 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 27 The Unmodifi ed Seed Paul warned the church that false apostles would some day come with a different gospel. The change they brought was as subtle as the genetic manipulation of a seed’s inner core. hese days there is an ever- ine seed and you may get an orange Pentecost. At that moment a pure increasing desire to make sure tree or a nectarine. Amazingly, the seed was introduced, unadulterated T that what is called “organic” “tangerine” has disappeared from – not tampered with. Grounded is really what the name implies. the next generation! fi rmly in the hearts of the believers, Organic growers who want to Genetically modifi ed or GMO it produced the authentic and market their produce as “Certifi ed seeds can go a step further, which is vibrant life of the fi rst communities Organic” use standard organic why the multi-national conglomer- of Acts 2 and 4. That very seed methods of cultivating their crops. ates are investing millions of dollars which rooted and fl owered in They must grow the crop in soil into producing genetically modi- Jerusalem was taken to many other that has been free from chemical fi ed food. When terminator gene parts of the inhabited world. fertilizers for at least three years, technology comes in full-blown, What was the result? Not only fertilized with organic compost commercial seeds will not be able to was the fruit reproduced in other or other organic fertilizers, and yield seeds capable of reproduction. locations exactly like the pattern watered with pure water. If crops of the fi rst, but its seed was exactly are grown free from contaminants, the same. You could take from the pesticides, and chemicals, their “The very seed of the fi rst new planting and form many more authenticity should be able to be communities in Acts 2 and 4 communities of believers from the guaranteed. But for years now, much was taken to other parts of same seed. Such was the exactness of the produce labeled “Certifi ed the world. The fruit it bore was of the duplication that the apostle Organic” has been technologically exactly like that of the disciples Paul could actually commend the tampered with. seed-bearing fruit that he saw in the Does it really make sense to ap- living together in Jerusalem.” distant region of Thessalonica. He ply the word organic to something knew that they had received from whose very seed has been tampered Everyone will have to buy their seed him the whole comprehensive gos- with? No, it doesn’t, no matter what from these corporate giants. This pel into their hearts as the true seed.1 it looks or tastes like. The plant seed will have on it a chemical that He could praise them for becoming would still be carrying within its will preserve it, aid it in germination, imitators and holding to the same genetic information the traits of hy- and guarantee its development, but pattern, the same genetic code of bridization or genetic modifi cation, prohibit its reproduction. This would the fi rst true seed in Judea, even to even if it went through the proper be a totally artifi cial seed that could the point of being examples in their requirements prescribed for how it produce an organic watermelon faith and receiving the exact manner was to be grown. Maybe the out- based on its cultivation practices but of persecution.2 ward appearance of the fruit would not on the authenticity of its seed. However, it was not long before be outstanding and the organic All of this shows that man can there began a tampering and a stamp of approval would be on its often make something look good modifi cation of the true seed. Other skin, but inside would be a corrupt, on the outside, and he can convince seeds began to be introduced as the modifi ed seed. others of its purity, but in its core it real ones, being superbly received.3 Nothing can take away the genet- has been tampered with. It is, in fact, The same apostle who had watched ic makeup that was passed on from a deliberate corruption of what is over the careful transmission of the the corrupt seed. Organic hybrids, natural. true seed saw the beginnings of like any other, if allowed to develop How fi ttingly this can be manipulations by men. He realized to their full maturity, fl ower, and applied to what has happened in that other seeds would come and make seed, will not yield the Christianity, since the true, genuine that a craftiness as deep as genetic expected fruit. Plant a tanger- seed was planted on the Day of manipulation would also be intro-

28 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 29 Read the package label very carefully. You may not know what you’re actually buying. Although it may seem pure and genuine, has it actually been modifi ed from the inside out?

duced so as to bring forth a diluted They all looked good in form, all modifi ed church. gospel and a seed that would look were stamped with the approved Now is the time for the sprouting good on the outside but inside label “The Church,” but it was actu- of a tender shoot from the origi- would be corrupt. It would not be ally a prostitution of the true seed. nal, uncorrupted seed, which will capable of generating a fruit similar To this day there is a propagation bear the fruit of authenticity to the to the original stock. of this modifi ed seed to the ends of whole world — a whole fruit both The oneness of heart, faith, bap- the earth. Thousands of denomina- inside and out. p tism, mind, and judgment common tions broadcast their seed to the to all the communities of the true countries of the world, sprouting 1 1 Ths 2:13-15 2 1 Ths 1:5-8 seed was replaced with divisions, church buildings on street corners 3 1 Cor 11:4-5 denominations, and each church everywhere. A genetically modifi ed speaking its own brand of doctrine. gospel has produced a genetically

28 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 29 A PARABLE

or God is not the author of common sense is evident in Fconfusion, but of peace, as many places. Yet, if not insert- in all churches of the saints. ed into the proper medium of (1 Corinthians 14:33) the functioning Body of Messiah, Many times and places have then it does not “yog.” Thus, brought about short bursts of there have been groups like the truth. Men at various times have Jesus Movement, the Shepherd- stumbled across obvious truths ing Movement, the Wilderness in the Scriptures and taken them Preparation Movement, the on as emblems, waving them Sabbatarian movement, and the proudly like a flag. The Seventh … but in Day Adventists came across many the end it becomes only a divided such truths, being men given to mess, and it does not “yog.” much study. They came to under- When you taste good yogurt, stand the history of the church you know it. and found the change of the Sab- The culture of yogurt is native bath day to Sunday by the Pope. to a certain part of the Middle East. They were shocked and amended There the special culture is active their ways and then began to tell in the open air. If milk is left out in everyone about keeping the Sab- its natural state and is just the right bath. Much of what they said was temperature, it will become yogurt correct. Herein lies the problem: on its own. This is the natural way They, like so many movements in yogurt is made. We have captured the past, did not have the medium that yogurt culture and imported it to introduce this truth into… not the to all parts of the world. The culture proper medium for it to bring about later, we go to the yogurt jars which are desires to permeate the milk, but if all the desired effect. wrapped in blankets keeping them just the factors are not right, it will not be In the following allegory, truth is the right temperature, and we open free to fill the environment. compared to the “starter” that is used one to see if the process has gone as The Body of Messiah is the perfect in the process of making yogurt. For planned. It is immediately evident environment for the commands and those who know how to make yogurt, whether the yogurt “yoged” or not. If the “hard sayings” of Messiah to flour- this will be a very clear allegory. we see the smooth, rich texture of yo- ish. Though someone may grasp a cer- When making yogurt, a good cul- gurt filling the jar, we say, “It yoged.” Or tain aspect of the good news and try ture is inserted into the proper me- we might say, “The yogurt didn’t yog” if to put it into practice, if all the proper dium and it will in a matter of several we saw a runny mess, and smelled the factors are not there, it will not “yog.” hours turn the entire medium into foul odor of defiled milk. Within a heart of total surrender the yogurt of exactly the same nature as It is the same with the truth. There love of God (the culture) could once the starter. But no matter how good are many, many truths that men have again be introduced. He was always the starter is, if the medium is defiled run across throughout history, but there desiring a place to pour His Spirit. with bacteria or is not the proper history bears out the fact that when a Once the heart came into the correct temperature it will not turn into yogurt. truth is isolated and put into an unfit temperature without the defilement On the contrary, it will turn into some environment, it does not produce the of destructive bacteria, His love came sort of runny, sour milk, often not fit for “yogurt” that it should. in. Now that same culture has spread human consumption. We see and hear elements of “truth” to all those who are in that same We make up a large batch of warm on many sides, within Christianity and environment. milk and then introduce the good all the other religions. Even in the soci- Within the ranks of organized religion, starter, mixing well. Then several hours ety at large, the wisdom gained from the culture is killed immediately.p

30 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 31 WHO WE ARE

Miracle One, Two The baby in Mary’s womb was completely human. And the Divine Spirit in Him, united with His human spirit, was completely divine. The unseen Creator finally was able to perfectly express Himself through a visible human being — the Son of God. This was miracle one…

“As Isaiah said before: ‘Unless the LORD of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we would have become like Sodom, and we would have been made like Gomorrah.’” (Romans 9:29) The greatest miracle in human history was the incarnation. God came to earth and dwelt in human flesh. The second greatest, you could say, is that we today would believe in Him. When Adam fell, something happened that we can barely understand. Something deep in human nature changed. Did Adam’s sin somehow affect his genetic pattern, turning on or off a “switch,” as scientists call it, in his DNA? Maybe so. All we know is that every person born of Adam’s seed has inherited a tendency toward sin. No matter how much good a person chooses to do he will at some point fail. Out of his deep self-concern, he will do things against his conscience1 and hurtful to others. And just as God warned Adam in the garden, death is the inevitable result. CONTINUED

1 The conscience is not, as some psychologists claim, standards imposed on the individual by society. It is not even the ideals that a person sets for himself. It is the vice-regent of God, the part of the human soul that rules human thought and behavior for the Creator. The conscience acts as the moral judge of our thoughts and actions, letting us know whether we are conforming to natural law — the instinctive knowledge of good and evil. 2 Every cell in the human body has 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) which determine the makeup of that person’s body. An unfertilized egg cell, or ovum, has only 23 single chromosomes. It needs the other 23, normally supplied by the male sperm cell, to begin growth of a new human being. The Holy Spirit supplied the 23 chromosomes of unfallen humanity, and the Savior of the world was conceived.

30 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 31 Miracle One, Miracle Two

Human beings were not created to be selfish, came into the world. And the Word incarnate in the though. We were created in the image of God. man Yahshua, as one united person, bore witness to Nothing in our original makeup was inclined toward the truth about what God was really like.3 sin. But once the first man sinned, that image of God For thirty years or so He lived quietly among other in us was marred. For thousands of years people who human beings in a small village. Strangely, they wanted to do right said in their hearts, “Oh, if only didn’t see God in Him. Maybe they weren’t look- Adam hadn’t fallen!” For thousands of years, God ing for the right things. Maybe they wanted to see longed to rescue such people. something great and powerful. Maybe they wanted He was waiting for just the right time. He had a to hear something awesome. But just as the prophet plan. He had somehow preserved the essence of Isaiah foretold, He didn’t have a stately or attractive unfallen man — a seed. How appearance. He wasn’t success- did He do it? We don’t know. But ful or influential. He was a man when the right time came, He If there was no pure of pain and sorrow, familiar with found someone willing to do His weakness and grief. He hurt over will — an Israelite virgin named human seed on earth the suffering and the injustice He Miriam (or Mary, as she is often after the fall of man, saw everywhere. Compassion ran called). His Spirit came upon her, deep in Him. and His power overshadowed why should there be a He didn’t express sadness and her, and the miracle happened. pure spiritual “seed” depression, though. He expressed The genetic pattern, or seed, that love — a love so perfect that He God had preserved was placed in on the earth after the gave His life as a ransom for us. the ovum in Miriam’s womb. The fall of the Church? He bore the penalty for sin that chromosomes were completed2 we deserved, just as Isaiah proph- and an unfallen human being was esied about Him. And Isaiah also conceived. And at that very mo- said why He did it: ment divine nature – the One that John’s gospel calls When you make His soul an offering for sin, He shall the Word – came to dwell in human flesh. see His seed. He shall prolong his days, and the pleasure “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. (Isaiah 53:10) (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begot- What the Savior of mankind was looking for when ten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) He bore our sins on the cross was His seed. Isaiah’s This new man was not some weird half-god, half- prophecy was not talking about descendants from man like the perverted stories in Greek mythology. our Master’s physical seed. It was, however, speak- The baby in Miriam’s womb was completely human. ing of a “new humanity” — those who would be And the Divine Spirit in Him, united with His human cleansed by His sacrifice so that the Holy Spirit could spirit, was completely divine. The unseen Creator dwell in them. By the Spirit’s work, they would be finally was able to perfectly express Himself through conformed to their Savior’s image. They would re- a visible human being — the Son of God. It was just semble Him by doing what He did. as He said to Pontius Pilate at His trial: This is a very important point. He told the Jew- For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have ish leaders who wanted to kill Him that if they were come into the world, that I should bear witness to the Abraham’s seed, they would do the deeds of Abra- truth. (John 18:37) ham.4 In the same way the “seed” of the Savior would The man Yahshua of Nazareth (commonly called be found doing His deeds. “As I have loved you,” He Jesus) was born: he began as a tiny embryo, devel- said in John 13:34-35, “so you must love one another. oped in the womb, and was delivered one night in By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if a stable. The Word of God, who had always existed, you love one another.”

3 It is important to understand that Jesus “came in the flesh” (1 John 4:2; Hebrews 4:15; 5:7-9). Like any other nursing babe or young child, He was limited in His understanding of who He was. It was only as He grew in wisdom and stature that He gained revelation of His identity and His purpose. His understanding grew slowly and steadily until His baptism. Then, when He heard those words from on high, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” He was finally able to embark upon His mission of salvation with unshakable certainty (Matthew 3:16-17). This is the same certainty He promised to His disciples after He rose from the dead (Acts 1:8). 4 John 8:39

32 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 33 The Incarnation

Those first disciples did love each other. The tual “seed” was not passed on. New “converts” did evidence is recorded in the book of Acts. They placed not receive the Divine Spirit of love. After a while, as no priority higher than devotion to their Savior’s the thousands of sincere ones who had been sealed commands and care for one another.5 God’s purpose with the Holy Spirit died off, there were hardly any prospered in their hands as they spread that life left who actually had the Holy Spirit living inside of love from one town to another. But something them. When the last one died, the Holy Spirit had happened to the early Church, something which can nowhere to live on the earth. He returned to where be summed up in two words and explained in a few He came from. more. They fell. And so we have had almost 2000 years of fallen The story of the Church in Ephesus is typical of them religion. The spiritual “seed” being passed on from all. In the book of Revelation, John generation to generation was not described their condition. They the same pure, unfallen “seed” had done many good deeds, had If God waited 4000 that brought about the first labored hard and endured much. years for the right Church. It wasn’t the same seed They were not tolerating wicked because they weren’t doing the people in their midst, and they had time to redeem same deeds.13 Does that seem exposed false apostles. But they humanity, why like a harsh and unfair statement? had forgotten the most important Does Church history actually show thing. It was the very thing Paul wouldn’t He wait the abundant fruit of being led by had emphasized in his letter to the 2000 years for the the Spirit? And didn’t the Son of Ephesians a generation before – to God tell us that we would know a love the Savior with an undying, right time to restore tree by its fruit? incorruptible love.6 the church? Consider the doctrinal quarrels I hold this against you: You have of the second and third centuries, forsaken your first love. Remember the politically forced “unity” of the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the fourth century, and the resulting persecution of the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come dissenters in all the centuries to follow? What about to you and remove your lampstand from its place. (Rev- the unrestrained butchering, rape, and robbery elation 2:4-5) of the and the inhuman tortures of the They had fallen, but if they acted quickly, they ? What about the gross immoralities and could still repent. They could return to doing the political intrigues of the popes and bishops prior to deeds of love the disciples had done at first.7 Sad to the era? What about the religious wars say, they did not, as even a casual glance at Church that resulted from the Reformation? What about history shows. They left love behind them and the continued persecution of dissenters by both moved on to other things, like arguing over doctrine. Catholicism and Protestantism, until modern secular When the deeds of love were gone, their light no lon- states took away their power to do so? What about ger shone before men. They were not the light of the the multiplied quarrels and denominational splits world.8 Instead the consciences of most were dirty9 that have happened in the last few centuries, once and The Holy Spirit was grieved within them.10 So politically enforced “unity” was removed? Aren’t the expressions of His love and oneness11 died off in these things just the deeds of the flesh described every place.12 One by one, the lampstands were taken by Galatians 5:19-20? Can those who do such things away. They were cut off and God no longer acknowl- inherit the kingdom of God? edged them. Most didn’t even notice. Life went on. Some admit that Christian leaders have fallen into Since they were no longer devoted to love, those sin down through the years. But on the whole, they who joined them did so for other reasons. The spiri- say, the rank-and-file believers have always sincerely

5 Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-35 6 Ephesians 6:24; Paul even warned the Corinthians that those who ceased to love their Savior would be cut off and under a curse (1 Corinthians 16:22; John 14:15; John 13:34-35). 7 Acts 2:42-47; 4:32-35 8 Matthew 5:14-16 9 Which is what “stained garments” in Revelations 3:4 signifies. 10 Revelation 3:19-20 11 John 13:35 and 17:23 12 1 Peter 2:12; 1 Timothy 2:8; 1 Corinthians 1:2; and Malachi 1:11 13 John 8:39

32 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 33 Miracle One, Miracle Two

followed Jesus, just like today.14 There are two prob- who are set apart for His purpose. The world needs lems with this kind of thinking, though. One is that, to see the same deeds of love that the first disciples according to the Son of God, a student is not above were devoted to. The light of the world must be re- his teacher.15 Instead, everyone, when fully trained, stored, because the world is getting darker.20 Forces will be just like his teacher. If the leaders and teach- are at work to bring together all the governments of ers were corrupt, you know that their congregations the world, just as it says in Revelation 17:12-13. Other were corrupt as well. This is what the Word of God forces are bringing together all the fallen religions, as Himself said. in Revelation 18:2, 14:8, and 17:5. And government The second problem is assuming that Christians and religion are also being brought together, as in today are, on the whole, true disciples who are Revelation 17:1-2,18 and 18:3,9. being a light to the world. But that’s not the way it We believe that the miracle of restoration is is, according to Barna Research, a Christian polling happening. At just the right time, our Father found organization. Not only are “born-again” Christians a man who was ready and willing to surrender com- not devoted to loving as our Master loved, they are pletely to Him and do His will — a man who said in not even morally superior to their non-Christian his heart, “All I want to do is love.” He entrusted that neighbors.16 One Barna Project Director admitted, man with His Holy Spirit — the pure spiritual seed “We have found that in a lot of ways Christians are that had been preserved for just that time. That man not living different lives than non-Christians, when went out and found others who were willing to do we look at their behavior.17 It’s hard for Christians to God’s will. When he told them what was in his heart understand because it seems contrary to what peo- about following the Son of God and loving like He ple think would happen.”18 (See the article We Need loved, they knew that what he was talking about was Some Sort of Quarantine on page 28 of Part Two.) from God.21 So we face the apparent reality that the Holy When they received that message of love and Spirit, the pure spiritual “seed” of the early Church, entrusted themselves completely to the Savior, they has not been on the earth for nearly 2000 years. This received that same Spirit. Soon they found them- is hard to understand. As the Barna Project Director selves living in a Community, just as the first disciples said, it seems contrary to what people think would had in Acts, because His love had been poured out happen. But if there was no pure human seed on into their hearts.22 They didn’t plan on living that earth after the fall of man, why should there be a way. All they wanted to do was just love one another. pure spiritual “seed” on the earth after the fall of the But when they started loving, they started sharing, Church? And if God waited 4000 years for the right and Community was the result. Community is always time to redeem humanity, why wouldn’t He wait the result of loving as He loved.23 It is the place of 2000 years for the right time to restore the Church? refuge for those who hate their life in this world and When the right time came for redemption, He want to serve Jesus Christ where He is.24 needed someone to work through. He found one Thirty years later, loving as our Master loved is still person, Miriam, who was completely surrendered all we want to do. We wish that everyone could share to His will. She said, “I am the Lord’s servant, and I this life of love with us. Given all the division and am willing to accept whatever He wants.”19 For this confusion and corruption and compromise in Chris- reason, He was free to bring about the great miracle tian history, the life we are experiencing is a miracle. of the incarnation. It still hardly seems possible that our Father would We live now in a very crucial time. Now, more once again entrust us human beings with the pure than ever, there is a need for the Holy Spirit, the pure life of His Holy Spirit. It must be the greatest miracle “seed” of the early Church, to dwell in human beings in history — or, at least, the second greatest.p

14 Ephesians 6:24 15 Luke 6:40 16 Really, though, what else can lonely individuals do? They nearly always sink to the lowest common denominator of the evil society they live in. That is why at Pentecost, Peter called people out of the “wicked and perverse generation.” He brought them into a place of fellowship: the “Community of the Redeemed.” As Acts 2:40-46 describes, those who were saved lived an entirely new life. They were completely focused on what the apostles taught. They shared everything with one another, right down to every meal they ate. They became a new, set-apart nation, as Peter later called them in 1 Peter 2:9-10. Together they were the city on a hill and light to the world that the Master talked about in Matthew 5:14. Not one of them could have been that city on his own. As Isaiah 49:6 points out, they could only be that light together, as a holy, set-apart nation. Such a holy nation is the only place where the set-apart, Holy Spirit can dwell. 17 Otherwise known as deeds (John 8:39; 13:34-35). 18 “Born-Again Christians No More Immune to Divorce Than Others, Says Author,” — CNSNews.com report, January 21, 2002. 19 Luke 1:38 (New Living Translation) 20 Luke 1:79 21 John 7:17 22 Romans 5:5 23 John 13:34-35 24 John 12:25-26

34 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 35 All Gene wanted was to surrender his life to God and do whatever he had been created for. He only wanted to love. This was the cry of his heart.

alifornia, 1971. The Jesus Movement was back into the status quo of rote1 religion. in full swing. There was an excitement In the midst of these circumstances, walking Cthere such as Gene had never seen in all of his alone on the California beach, Gene came face religious childhood. It was easy to get involved to face with the truth of John 15:5: “I am the — praising the Lord, witnessing on the streets, vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and passing out Jesus tracts to the endless and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from stream of hitchhikers traveling up and down Me you can do nothing.” If his life was to mean the coast of California. He volunteered to work anything, if he was going to actually do what in a rescue mission and developed a special he had been created for, it could only come burden for this radical generation of youth. It about through obeying and utterly depending wasn’t long before he realized that most people on his Savior — and teaching others to do in the movement did not have a deep conviction the same. Eventually Gene left California in their heart, but were just caught up in the and headed east to the Rocky Mountains. He impulsive enthusiasm of the times. He observed had heard there were lots of “fl ower children” that even the sincere ones did not seem to have disillusioned with the “Woodstock Nation” the power to overcome the sins of their former and people who had dropped out of traditional life. Despite the popular movement’s outward lifestyles who were living in the mountains zeal, which Gene so admired, he could see that trying to fi nd peace. Perhaps there he would their fi re was only a fading ember. Already the fi nd people who wanted to hear the good news seemingly radical changes in people’s lives were of the salvation he had found in Jesus, the beginning to wear off, and they began settling Savior of the world.

1rote — routine or repetition carried out mechanically or unthinkingly. 34 www.commonwealthofi srael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 35 A Radical Atheist everything Marsha had always her California upbringing. But In a small, unspoiled mountain dreamed of. She barraged Gene their lives no longer belonged to village in Wyoming lived a young with challenging questions: Why themselves. They were living for woman named Marsha. Unlike had she never seen these words their Savior now, so off they went Gene, she had been raised knowing lived out? Why did Christians do to Gene’s hometown. nothing about the Bible and could little more than dress up in fancy They both got jobs there, and count on one hand the times she clothes and meet in elaborate soon all the debts were paid and (as had even been in a church building. buildings, even in countries racked much as possible) all the wrongs Her college philosophy courses, with poverty? For these questions were righted. During this time combined with the religious Gene had no answers. All he knew they attended services at several hypocrisy she had seen of the churches in the all her life in southern She knew in her heart that if there really area where their zeal for the Lord attracted California, had convinced were a God and someone actually knew Him, her there couldn’t be a much attention. They God. She couldn’t believe that person would be radically different! also opened their home the Christians who said to anyone who wanted they had a “personal was that the Son of God had saved to come and learn about relationship with God” when him, had fi lled his heart with a love their Savior. Many young people their lives were full of the same for others, and would do the same came to meetings in their living ambitions, pleasures, pursuits, and for anyone who sincerely called out room just to sing and talk about mundane daily routines as her own. to Him. It wasn’t the Savior’s fault Jesus. Because of the things She knew in her heart that if there that people weren’t obeying His they heard and the love they really were a God and someone words. experienced there, many teenagers actually knew Him, that person Marsha couldn’t ignore the quit taking drugs. People hailed would be radically different! truth of what she was hearing. their ministry as “a great work.” The emptiness of college and Amazingly, this confi rmed atheist Every Sunday they would bring a the shallow relationships there had put her trust in the Son of God, for truckload of young people to the caused her to drop out and move she had become convinced that He different churches they attended. to that small village, looking for was mankind’s only hope. Soon Their little group was popular, and love and peace and a life that was afterwards, she and Gene returned everyone was happy. closer to nature. There she had to California and were married The Light Brigade found others who seemed to want — joined in a covenant that has The little brown house on the same thing — to really live withstood the test of time for over Ringgold Road where Gene and and be real. But before long her three decades. Marsha lived became known as friends traded in their ideals for a The Last Place on Earth The Light House, and the little band subtle conformity. Their passion for of believers began sharing their justice and love started gradually Even though Gene had a new life and was married to a woman who faith through an “underground” being replaced by the same old paper called The Light Brigade greed and selfi shness they had all shared his convictions, he knew that many things from his old life in Freepaper. They were excited tried to leave behind. about experiencing love, a clean When Gene showed up in the Tennessee were unresolved. And he could not be devoted to the purpose conscience, and a new life. village, she admired his passion but Whenever there was a concert or was offended at his Bible. Yet when God had called him to until his conscience was completely clear. other public gathering, the Light he read to her about the love of Brigade would be there handing this man called Jesus and the high Facing his past in Chattanooga was painful for Gene, and the south was out papers. standard of justice His words called The response was amazing. for, she was intrigued. If people the last place on earth that Marsha wanted to be, steeped as she was Teenagers showed up at all hours actually did what this man said, it of the day and night. Some had would result in a society that was in the stereotypical prejudices of Anyone who came in to get a know so well: “I am the vine, you meal could also get a glimpse are the branches… apart from Me of the new life they had you can do nothing,” so they called found — the result of being their new home The Vine House. forgiven and having the They still attended services at Holy Spirit living inside. On various churches, but problems nowhere else to go and needed a the menu they printed, “We were beginning to surface. place to stay. But how would Gene serve the fruit of the Spirit. Why There were murmurings in the and Marsha have time to care not ask?” congregations about the “hippies” for these people if they continued and black people invading their working their regular jobs? respectable gatherings. Unwilling to turn The young disciples away anyone were sincere, starting to they were ask diffi cult in need questions, of a bigger too. They house. But wondered how would how the they make ends people they meet? Asking went to church for donations with could be was out of the so wealthy when question. The there were so Bible taught them many poor people to do honest work around. And why with their own hands did they act so cold to have something to and distant? Hadn’t share with those in People loved to come in Gene told them that need.2 That’s just what and talk and sit for hours in this Christians were called to live a life they wanted to do — work together restaurant. It was a peaceful of selfl ess love for their neighbor? and share everything they had with place, not full of the usual tense each other. The Super Bowl atmosphere of a typical sandwich Thus was born The Yellow Deli One Sunday it all came to shop. The local papers did big full- restaurant. They did yard work a head. The church they were color stories about them, giving to get a few dollars together and attending cancelled their evening glowing reports of their work and rented a small building. After a service because the Super Bowl their menu. couple of months of renovation was going to be on TV. Even For a and a coat though the preacher had many reasonable of bright good things to say in his sermons, price they yellow it didn’t seem to make much were able paint, the difference in the lives of the people. to fi nd a big cozy little Their priorities seemed to be like house in sandwich the ones Gene had given up when need of much shop was he was saved. repair, which ready to open. It was a place where From that day on, the little band they fi xed up and began living in. they could work for a living and of disciples stopped attending It just happened to be on “Vine still be together, learning all about services. Instead they just went to Street.” The name reminded Gene their Savior and His teachings. a nearby park on Sunday mornings of the Bible verse he had come to 2 Eph 4:28 was even clearer: “All the really understand what was going believers were one in heart and on and tried to make peace, but mind. No one claimed that any found all our efforts futile. When of his possessions was his own, we tried to explain that according but they shared everything they to the Bible we were just doing had.” what was normal for believers, it The Vine Christian only made matters worse. “You’re Community saying that you’re the only ones!” was the most common response. From that time on Lies and slanderous rumors began opponents rose up from to surface about us. Suddenly we the ranks of the religious weren’t so popular anymore. against our little band of All this time, however, our disciples. No longer were numbers were growing. We had to we just a nice little ministry buy another house to accommodate to young people that made all the people who came to live and up for how the churches work with us. And when a disciple were failing to reach the from a nearby town wanted a youth. Now we had become Yellow Deli back where he had come an independent entity, The from, we moved people there, got a The Vine House in 1975 Vine Christian Community. house, and found a building for the We weren’t asking the churches restaurant. Then came more houses to sing and worship. After all, for donations, teachings, seminary and more delis. Within four or fi ve the Bible never said there had to training, or approval. We were years’ time we were running seven be a preacher in a pulpit delis and occupied a dozen and everyone else listening When we stopped “going to church” large houses in Chattanooga quietly in pews. On the and started being the church something and the surrounding area. contrary, the Bible taught And we still handled all of that everyone should bring wonderful began to happen. our assets as we had at fi rst something to say, or a song — voluntarily sharing all 3 to sing. that we had. That choice was And so it went. Often very signifi cant. When because of diffi cult we stopped “going to circumstances, and church” and started being always at great personal the church something cost, disciples were wonderful began to sent out to establish happen. We began communities. But discovering who we were, that, after all, was the and what God wanted foundation we had been to have happen on the on from the beginning: earth. Verses in the Bible meeting the pressing that we hadn’t really need, giving out of what noticed before began Early gatherings in Warner Park sustained us, doing to stand out. With excitement we whatever love demanded. We discovered that the disciples in paying our own way and raising up hadn’t sat down and planned out the fi rst century lived just as we our own leaders. People who hadn’t how to spread our beliefs or our were living. Acts 2:44 said, “All wanted us at their churches in the lifestyle. We hadn’t anticipated who believed were together and had all fi rst place were now offended that things in common.” And Acts 4:32 we had stopped coming. We didn’t 3 1 Cor 14:26 love for one their example. His message called another and them to abandon their fi shing nets were distinctly and tax booths and to give away different from their personal possessions. He the society commanded them to sever their around them. ties with any family members It was all too who opposed their devotion to the obvious that cause. The apostle Paul had even such a life was renounced his training as a Biblical missing from scholar in order to know this Jesus the Christian whom his colleagues despised. But Churches of Christianity did not preach such The Peacemaker - “We know the way, we’ll bring you home.” the twentieth “hard sayings.” Instead, it has becoming more than what we century. intellectually dissected the words started in Tennessee. Nevertheless, The reason was fairly obvious, of Messiah and rationalized away by 1990, communities had been too. There was no radical the need to obey them. established in four other countries, difference between churchgoers It wasn’t hard for us to see why several were going in the New and non-churchgoers because there that authoritative message was England area, and one in missing in modern times. the Midwest. By the year Gradually it dawned on us what the fi rst Someone would have to 2000, communities had consistently live that life begun in several other century church had been — not just a of self-sacrifi ce and care countries, as well as in religion, but a nation. That nation had been himself, because of his many other parts of the love for Jesus, before he United States.4 known as the “Commonwealth of Israel.” would have the authority Dry Bones to call others to abandon was no authoritative message being everything to follow Him. Thus, Just as we had never intended proclaimed to tell people what God a major focus for us in the 1970s to become a worldwide movement, wanted them to do. Jesus’ love for was learning to be obedient to the we had also never imagined His Father caused Him to obey message we had received. ourselves to be a part of During the 1980s we the fulfi llment of Biblical continued to seek in the prophecy. But over the years Bible for the foundation it gradually became clear of the early church to fi nd that a restoration was taking our identity. Gradually it place in our midst, and that dawned on us what the fi rst we were living at a very Church had been — not signifi cant time in history. just a religion, but a nation.5 In the 1970s we knew That nation had been from our heart and our known as the Commonwealth experience that there was of Israel.6 It had been made more to following the Savior up of priests (each one a than going to church. As Dancing is an important aspect of our culture representative of God on we tried to pursue our desire to earth) and had possessed its own live a life pleasing to our Savior, His Father’s word. He, in turn culture. Piece by piece, the puzzle we began to see things in the Bible called His disciples to the same began to take shape. There had that confi rmed us. The accounts love. He went before them and was been a radical separation between we read of the fi rst-century church portrayed people who lived a 4 See the back cover for addresses of some of our communities, or our 5 6 radical life of self-sacrifi cing web site for a complete list. 1 Pet 2:9 Eph 2:12 the Church and the world in the fi rst century and there had been a very good reason for it. The nations of the world functioned on the basis of Natural Law — the things that all men knew in their consciences to be true and right7 — but the priesthood had a higher law and greater accountability. As we studied the history and prophecies of the Old Testament, passages from the New Testament became much clearer. Living according to Natural Law was not bad, and God had an eternal reward for all who struggled to do right (see What About the Heathen? At our Common Ground Cafés we continue to serve “the fruit of the Spirit” page 60), but good morals alone though, it became obvious that this began gathering every morning could not accomplish the purpose holy nation would not even be able and evening to pray for the rulers 8 of God on the earth. There had to to exist on the earth apart from of the nations in which we dwelt. be a holy nation that proved their the infl uence of righteous men in At the same time, our message love for Messiah before He became much more sharply could return to the earth to We felt a growing urgency to let focused. We gained more establish His kingdom with people know about the good, clean life understanding about the ways them. There would have to in which society was violating be a people separate from our Savior had given us. the Natural Law — to the the nations of the world who point of calling evil good and would live their lives obeying His the governments of the nations good evil. It was becoming obvious commands. Matthew 24:14 and 21: — men who would uphold freedom that the time-honored ideals of the 43 were very clear on this point. of religion and other basic human hard-working man, the submissive By the close of the 1980s, rights. wife, and respectful children were As we entered the 1990s we under attack in the world around us. Men were striving for positions where they could make the most money with the least sweat possible. Women were demanding at least a 50-50 partnership where there was no acknowledged head. Children were increasingly being left to themselves to choose their own course and form their own values. The concept of family was being re-defi ned to the point that homosexual partnerships were being given the same legal status as marriage in some places. We felt a growing urgency to let

7 Rom 2:14-15 8 1 Tim 2:1-8

Our “Peacemaker Medical” fi rst-aid team goes to many major events people know about the good, clean in a geographical area, living a world “without human hands.” life our Savior had given us. In common life together that would be Attempts at restoration have addition to passing out literature a light to the people around them. always involved fl eshly human at public events and backpacking It would be restored gradually, like effort in forms such as political in pairs across the countryside to the vision of dry bones in Ezekiel alliances between church and share our message, we established 37, member by member becoming state, the use of military force, a toll-free number and later a united together and fl eshed out and persuasive propaganda. But website where people the Stone Kingdom of with questions could fi nd The challenge is to rely on the Spirit of Love, Daniel’s prophecy can answers. We continued and not on our own natural abilities, so that only be established to print our freepapers, through love, bonding calling our main we will not fall prey to the pride, selfi sh desires, people together by a publication The Twelve and compromise that have caused every other deep affection based on Tribes Freepaper. the sacrifi ces they have As the twentieth movement of the last two millennia to fail. made for each other. century drew to a close, And so we have into a host of communities — the various Biblical prophecies stood reached a critical point. There resurrection of a spiritual nation out to us. Isaiah 49:6 spoke of the are communities being raised whose hope had dried up at the end “raising up of the tribes of Jacob to be up in twelve geographical areas of the fi rst century. by responsible people who have We realized that this been disciples for decades. Their was our future, if we children, for the most part, are proved worthy of it, but building this nation with their many movements have parents. A rich culture is emerging come and gone in the in our midst. We have a clear last nineteen centuries, vision for the future. But we face and none have fully a supreme test. Will we continue recaptured the fervor to allow the new wine of the Holy of the fi rst-century Spirit to fi ll our hearts and change disciples and spread it our lives? We will if we remain true to the ends of the earth. We see apprenticeship as a vital link to our Master’s words in John 15:5 Always there have been selfi sh between the generations — “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” motives, factions, corruption, and a light to the nations so that salvation The challenge is to rely on the compromise. Never has there been could reach to the ends of the earth.” It Spirit of Love, and not on our own a people such as the prophetic was becoming clear that salvation natural abilities, so that we will not dream Daniel10 describes — a reaching the ends of the earth fall prey to the pride, selfi sh desires, “stone kingdom” made up of people (which Matthew 24:14 said must and compromise that have caused hewn from the mountain of the happen in order for Messiah every other movement of the to return and bring about the last two millennia to fail. end of the age) depended on Everything, quite literally a nation composed of twelve everything, depends on this. tribes. These tribes, we came And with this vision we press to understand, would not on, for the love of Messiah be the natural descendants compels us.11p of Jacob, but a spiritual Commonwealth of Israel9 9 Eph 2:12 10 Dan 2:31-45 — twelve self-governing 11 2 Cor 5:14-15 tribes. Each tribe would be composed of the disciples Our family keeps growing... WHO WE ARE The GOD’S PLAN foolish TO WIN BACK A REMNANT Nation OF ABRAHAM’S WAYWARD DESCENDANTS AND TO GIVE THEM THE PROMISED LAND DEPENDS ON RAISING UP A SPIRITUAL ISRAEL OF TWELVE TRIBES FROM AMONG THE GENTILES.

f the Apostle Paul were alive on Paul latched upon a secret hidden in the earth today, he would surely the words of the prophets that filled ibe considered either a heretic, or a his soul with hope and determina- dangerous extremist, or both. You see, tion. That secret lies in the connection If the Apostle his understanding of the primary mis- between these two verses: sion of the church, and the means of “They have provoked Me to jealousy Paul were attaining it, and the consequences of by what is not God; they have moved failing, was vastly different from what Me to anger by their foolish idols. But I alive on the most Christians believe today. You may will provoke them to jealousy by those earth today, he be shocked to hear of it, although it has who are not a nation; I will move them to been right there on the pages of your anger by a foolish nation.” would surely Bible all along… (Deuteronomy 32:21) Let’s start with this passionate cry of “It is too small a thing that You should be considered Paul’s heart: be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Ja- I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, cob, and to restore the preserved ones of either a heretic, my conscience also bearing me witness Israel; I will also give You as a light to the in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow Gentiles, that You should be My salvation or a dangerous and continual grief in my heart. For I to the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 49:6) could wish that I myself were accursed Did you grasp it? God’s plan to win extremist from Christ for my brethren, my coun- back a remnant of Abraham’s wayward or both. trymen according to the flesh, who are descendants, so as to be able to give Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, them the Promised Land, was to raise the glory, the covenants, the giving of the up a spiritual Israel of twelve tribes law, the service of God, and the prom- from among the Gentiles — a “fool- ises… (Romans 9:1-4) ish nation” in the eyes of Abraham’s If Paul could have personally traded natural descendants. They would places with his cut-off countrymen, be like a spiritual “Jacob” seizing the he would have done so, knowing that heritage for themselves.3 Their vibrant God Himself had made a self-cursing life of love and unity, which fulfills the oath to fulfill His promise to Abraham righteous requirements of the Law4 in and his offspring (see box on page 44). the liberty of the Spirit, would make But Paul knew that they could not the Jews jealous. obtain the promise unless they had the If you find it hard to accept that the faith of their father Abraham, which “church” or the “Body of Christ” ought would cause them to do the deeds of to be composed of twelve tribes, or Abraham.1 Finding himself helpless to that its mission has anything to do with persuade them by force of argument,2 God’s promise to Abraham, consider

1 Jn 8:39; Gen 17:1 2 Acts 13:46 3 Mt 11:12; Isa 64:7 4 Rom 8:4

42 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 43 The foolish Nation

Paul’s position on the matter: But they did not bear the fruit of and Isaiah prophesied.12 Consider also 1) In Acts 13:47 Paul took his stand that love they professed.7 The fruit God how the Apostle Peter described this on Isaiah 49:6 (quoted above) to justify was looking for was the same as what “foolish nation”: his ministry to the Gentiles; and He expected and received from their “But you are a chosen generation, a 2) In Acts 26:6-7 Paul took his stand father Abraham: royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own with that twelve-tribed “foolish nation” “For I have known him, in order that special people, that you may proclaim and its mission: he may command his children and his the praises of Him who called you out of “And now I stand here on trial on ac- household after him, to keep the way darkness into His marvelous light; who count of my hope in the promise made of the LORD, to do righteousness and once were not a people but are now the by God to our fathers, a promise that justice, that the LORD may bring to people of God, who had not obtained our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they Abraham what He has promised him.” mercy but now have obtained mercy.” earnestly serve God day and night. And it (Genesis 18:19) (1 Peter 2:9-10)13 is for this hope, O King, that I am accused Every parent of Israel was to train up He was taking what God spoke to by the Jews!” their children in the Way of the LORD,8 old Israel in Exodus 19:5-6 and apply- Surely Paul was not speaking of the thereby the whole nation would be ing it directly to the New Covenant twelve tribes of natural Israel, long ago fallen away and dispersed because of “AND NOW I STAND HERE ON TRIAL ON ACCOUNT OF MY their unfaithfulness. Only a remnant HOPE IN THE PROMISE MADE BY GOD TO OUR FATHERS, had returned to the land after the Babylonian captivity, and Paul would A PROMISE THAT OUR TWELVE TRIBES HOPE TO ATTAIN, not describe them as “earnestly serving AS THEY EARNESTLY SERVE GOD DAY AND NIGHT. God day and night” when they were AND IT IS FOR THIS HOPE, O KING, THAT I AM the very ones persecuting him. No, it ACCUSED BY THE JEWS” (ACTS 26:6-7) was the twelve tribes of the “foolish nation” he was laboring with the other secure to bear the fruit of the Kingdom. communities that he and all the 5 apostles to establish, mostly com- The failure of Israel to produce the fruit apostles were establishing, based on posed of Gentiles beyond the borders of the Kingdom was disobedience to the pattern of the first community14 of natural Israel, in fulfillment of the their God. It was not because they did described in Acts 2:44-47 and 4:32-35. words of the prophet Malachi: not hear the message or because they Initially they just made the Jews “‘Your eyes shall see, and you shall could not understand it. The last words angry by going “outside the camp”15 say, ‘The LORD is magnified beyond the of the last prophet sent to warn them of traditional Judaism. Calling them- border of Israel.’ For from the rising of the were these: selves God’s people and living a radical sun, even to its going down, My name “Behold, I will send you Elijah the tribal life of love and unity exposed shall be great among the Gentiles; in prophet before the coming of the great the hypocrisy and hardness of heart of every place incense shall be offered to My and dreadful day of the LORD. And he name, and a pure offering; for My name will turn the hearts of the fathers to the shall be great among the nations,’ says children, and the hearts of the children 5 Why do you suppose Jesus the LORD of hosts.” (Malachi 1:5,11) to their fathers, lest I come and strike the chose twelve apostles? It was unthinkable to the Jews that land with a curse.” (Malachi 4:5-6) 6 Mal 1:6-10 God would accept offerings in any 400 years later, there had been 7 See also Dt 10:12-13; 11:13-21; other place than the Temple in Jerusa- no national repentance. John the 30:6; etc. lem, and from Gentiles at that! But as Baptist came in the spirit and power of 6 8 Dt 6:4-9 Malachi describes, God was weary of Elijah9 and proclaimed them cut off,10 9 Lk 1:17 natural Israel’s defiled offerings, their preparing the way for the Messiah, who 10 Mt 3:7-12 stale ritual observances that did not told them, 11 But read the entire parable for come from their hearts in response to “Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of the full context: Mt 21:33-45 His love. Of course every one of them God will be taken from you and given to 12 Dt 32:21, quoted at the begin- could quote from memory: a nation bearing the fruit of it.” (Matthew ning of this article; see also Isa 65:1 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, 21:43)11 13 But begin with verse 4 to get the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD Did you catch that? He said, “given the full context. your God with all your heart, with all your to a nation.” He did not mean an earth- 14 1 Ths 2:14 soul, and with all your strength.” (Deuter- ly, political nation, but a spiritual nation 15 Heb 13:13 onomy 6:4-5) — the “foolish nation” of which Moses 42 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 43 The foolish Nation natural Israel. But as that “foolish na- THE CHANGE OF HEART AMONG THE JEWS IN THE LAST tion” grew to full stature,16 bearing the 17 DAYS WILL NOT JUST HAPPEN OUT OF THE BLUE. THEY fruit of being connected to the “Vine”, WILL HAVE OBSERVED THE CONDUCT OF THE FOOLISH or in Paul’s words, of being grafted “contrary to nature” into the “holy NATION OF TWELVE TRIBES FOR MANY YEARS WITH root” so as to show the “fatness of the INCREASING RESPECT. olive tree”,18 a remnant of natural Israel would be moved to jealousy19 and be to fulfill in the Law and the Prophets, Of course, the spiritual “seed of grafted back into their own olive tree.20 summed up in the expectation God Abraham” will do the deeds of Abra- Their jealousy would come from had of Abraham: ham,22 for they, like him, have the Law seeing this “foolish nation” do for “For I have known him, in order that of God written in their hearts. They will them, or in their place, as it were, what he may command his children and his bear the fruit of the Kingdom, and that they would not do for themselves.21 By household after him, that they keep the fruit will remain23 — it will increase and the power of love, with the Holy Spirit way of the LORD, to do righteousness not decrease over succeeding genera- within them and upon them, this “fool- and justice, that the LORD may bring to tions, because they will diligently teach ish nation” would restore all things that Abraham what He has promised him.” their children all that is in their hearts.24 natural Israel had cast aside or failed (Genesis 18:19) This is the restoration Jesus spoke of in

16 Eph 2:19-22 17 Jn 15:1-8 18 Rom 11:17 19 Rom 11:11-14 20 Rom 11:23-24 21 Rom 11:7 22 Jn 8:39 23 Jn 15:16 24 Dt 6:4-7 God’s Self-Cursing Oath ost people have heard of the if you are able to M“Promised Land” but few are aware number them.” of either the boundaries of that land And He said to or the conditions of the promise, or him, “So shall your even what difference it makes some descendants be.” 4000 years later. Yet this particular And he believed portion of the Earth is continually the LORD, and He in the spotlight, demanding the accounted it to him attention of the watching world. Why for righteousness. is it so important? Let’s look carefully Then He said at where it all started: to him, “I am the LORD, who brought The word of the LORD came to you out of Ur of Abram in a vision, saying, “Do not be the Chaldeans, to afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your give you this land to exceedingly great reward.” inherit it.” But Abram said, “Lord GOD, what And he said, “Lord will You give me, seeing I go childless, GOD, how shall I know and the heir of my house is Eliezer of that I will inherit it?” Damascus? Look, You have given me no So He said to him, “Bring Me a Abram drove them away. Now when offspring; indeed one born in my house three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old the sun was going down, a deep sleep is my heir!” female goat, a three-year-old ram, a fell upon Abram; and behold, horror And behold, the word of the LORD turtledove, and a young pigeon.” and great darkness fell upon him… came to him, saying, “This one shall not Then he brought all these to Him and And it came to pass, when the sun went be your heir, but one who will come from cut them in two, down the middle, and down and it was dark, that behold, there your own body shall be your heir.” Then placed each piece opposite the other; but appeared a smoking oven and a burning He brought him outside and said, “Look he did not cut the birds in two. And when torch that passed between those pieces. now toward heaven, and count the stars the vultures came down on the carcasses, That day the LORD made a covenant

44 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 45 The foolish Nation Mark 9:12 that must happen before His would be made a footstool for his feet.” This change of heart will not just return: “Indeed, Elijah is coming first (Hebrews 10:12-13) happen “out of the blue” in the last and restores all things.”25 But to restore “[Jesus]…whom heaven must hold hour, but because they will have been all things, the “foolish nation” will have until the period of restoration of all things observing the “foolish nation” for many to overcome26 all things that oppose about which God spoke by the mouth years with increasing respect, until it — all of the spiritual enemies that of His holy prophets from ancient time.” the very last years, when they hear natural Israel failed to overcome. (Acts 3:21) her pure sons proclaim the imminent And that is exactly what Jesus is For when He returns, the prophecy return of the Messiah to establish His waiting for, and what will release Him of Zechariah 12:10 will be fulfilled: rule upon the Earth. Then when He from heaven to take His throne in Jeru- “And I will pour out a spirit of com- splits the sky, the sensitive ones, the salem and restore the Promised Land passion and supplication on the house preserved remnant,28 will be pierced to to Abraham’s physical descendants in of David and the inhabitants of Jeru- the heart. the next age:27 salem, so that, when they look on the So let’s go back to what the Apostle “But when Christ had offered for all One whom they have pierced, they shall Paul understood, which he called a time a single sacrifice for sins, He sat mourn for Him, as one mourns for an mystery:29 down at the right hand of God, and since only child, and weep bitterly over Him, as “What then? What Israel is seeking, then has been waiting until His enemies one weeps over a firstborn.” it has not attained, but those who were

25 “At the appointed time, it is written, you [Elijah] are destined to calm the wrath of God before it breaks out in fury, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and to restore the tribes of Jacob.” (Ecc’cus 48:10) 26 Rev 2:11,17,26; 3:5,12,21 27 Mt 19:28 28 Zec 13:8-9 29 Rom 11:25

with Abram, saying: “To your descendants I my promise.” Division equals death. did not do this. Because of their have given this land, from the river of Egypt In other words, God answered disobedience, God could never deliver to the great river, the River Euphrates.” Abram’s question by saying, “If I do not the entire land into their hands, and (Genesis 15:1-18) give your descendants this land, may the even had to drive them out of the fate of these animals come upon Me.” portion they once possessed, swearing What was the significance of this pe- God Himself would be torn asunder! It that He would not bring them back to culiar animal sacrifice? How did it answer is no exaggeration to say that the fate of the land until...1 Abram’s question, “How shall I know that the universe is at stake in what happens “… you return to the LORD your God I will inherit it?” The shocking solution to to this land. and obey His voice, according to all that this puzzle is found in a passage far away So considering what is at stake, why I command you today, you and your in the prophecy of Jeremiah: hasn’t God already fulfilled His promise? children, with all your heart and with all “And I will give the men who have Some might say, “What’s the big deal? your soul…” (Deuteronomy 30:2) transgressed My covenant, who have not The Jews are already back on their land!” No one who knows anything about performed the words of the covenant Well, for one thing, take a closer look at how the Jews got back to Palestine, which they made before Me, when they the boundaries. The Jews are occupying and what their moral and spiritual life cut the calf in two and passed between only a portion of that promised land, is like there, can be under any illusion the parts of it — the princes of Judah, and it seems rather unlikely that they are as to what force is sustaining them. It is the princes of Jerusalem, the eunuchs, going to gain Lebanon and parts of Syria certainly not God’s blessing on account the priests, and all the people of the land and Jordan any time soon. But even if of their national righteousness! who passed between the parts of the calf they or their allies conquered the entire What then? Is there any hope of — I will give them into the hand of their Arab world and seized their land, still it winning back the hearts of “God’s enemies and into the hand of those who would not be the blessing of God, for Chosen People” so that God can seek their life. Their dead bodies shall be for God, who does not change, has made it righteously give them the enemy-free meat for the birds of the heaven and the very clear what is required of Abraham land He promised them? It can only beasts of the earth.” (Jeremiah 34:18-20) and his descendants: happen if there is a people who will This passage shows the terms “For I have chosen him, so that he may embrace Paul’s “heresy” and become the of a very serious kind of covenant, command his children and his household “foolish nation” that will move Abraham’s something that was understood by the after him to keep the way of the LORD by descendants to jealousy. Otherwise God ancient Hebrews. The initiator of this doing righteousness and justice, so that the Himself will be split in two.p kind of covenant would pass between LORD may bring upon Abraham what He the halves of an animal split in two, has spoken about him.” (Genesis 18:19) 1 Please see all of Deuteronomy saying by that action, “May it happen to The Bible records very clearly that chapters 28 through 30 for the full me just as to this animal if I do not keep Abraham’s descendants after Jacob context.

44 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 45 The foolish Nation chosen attained it, and the rest were never divide, for He will give them that the church in Ephesus was about hardened… Did they stumble so as to the grace to love one another just as to lose its lampstand before the first fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, He loved them, and together they century had ended,31 with the other because of their transgression, salvation will bear the fruit of the Kingdom, churches also in decline? Do you think has come to the Gentiles to make Israel bringing Him back for the harvest these warnings were just idle threats? envious. But if their transgression means and the restoration of the Kingdom to If they did not bear the fruit of the riches for the world, and their loss means Abraham’s descendants. Kingdom, would they not also be cut off?32 THOSE WHO ARE UTTERLY SURRENDERED TO HIM AND Or, let’s look at it from another DEPENDENT UPON HIM WILL CLING TOGETHER AND NEVER angle. Where is the evidence that what passes for the church today DIVIDE, FOR HE WILL GIVE THEM THE GRACE TO LOVE is still connected to that same holy ONE ANOTHER JUST AS HE LOVED THEM root?33 What is there about Christianity today, worldly and divided as it is, that riches for the Gentiles, how much greater Perhaps now you can grasp more could tug at the heart of any sincere riches will their fullness bring! I am talk- of what was in Paul’s heart when he Jew longing for the true heritage ing to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am testified: of Abraham? Where are the twelve the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my “And now I stand here on trial on tribes of Isaiah’s prophecy that are the ministry in the hope that I may somehow account of my hope in the promise made light to the nations? Where is the rich arouse my own people to envy and save by God to our fathers, a promise that tribal life of love and care that was the some of them. For if their rejection is the our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they abundant fruit of that first outpouring reconciliation of the world, what will their earnestly serve God day and night. And it of the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the words of acceptance be but life from the dead?” is for this hope, O King, that I am accused the prophets?34 Where are the children (Romans 11:7-15) by the Jews! Why should it be thought taking on the hearts of their fathers, Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross a thing incredible with you, that God building together with the same vision and His resurrection from the dead was should raise the dead?” (Acts 26:6-8) and passion, showing that the spirit of not enough in itself to reach the cold He believed with all his heart that Elijah is upon them?35 heart of natural Israel and raise them the demonstration of the power of the “Elijah has come… Elijah is coming… from the dead — for dead they were in resurrection in a people would raise ” 36 As he came to prepare the way of God’s eyes. If it had been enough, then natural Israel from the dead. He hoped the Messiah’s first coming, that same Jesus would not have answered His this would happen in his lifetime,30 Spirit must come again to prepare the disciples’ question as He did just before but it did not. Instead, what Paul way of His second coming. The “foolish He ascended: warned the “foolish nation” about nation” must be reborn and run the Therefore, when they had come came upon them: race all the way to the end, bearing the together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, “You will say then, ‘Those branches fruit of the Kingdom until He comes to will You at this time restore the kingdom were broken off that I might be grafted restore the Kingdom to Israel.37p to Israel?” And He said to them, “It is not in.’ Well said. Because of unbelief they for you to know times or seasons which were broken off, and you stand by faith. the Father has put in His own authority. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God But you shall receive power when the did not spare the natural branches, 30 1 Ths 4:15 Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you He will not spare you either. Therefore 31 Rev 2:5 shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and consider the kindness and severity of 32 Mt 21:43 in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end God: on those who fell, severity; but 33 Rom 11:17 of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8) toward you, kindness, if you continue in 34 Acts 2:44-47; 4:32-35; Jer 32:39; He knew it was going to take the His kindness. Otherwise you also will be Dt 15:4,8 demonstration of His love in a people cut off.” (Romans 11:19-22) 35 Mal 4:5-6; Lk 1:17 — a “foolish nation” — to show, as Paul Probably it will be hard for you to 36 Mk 9:11-13 said, that “His power is made perfect believe that they were cut off — not 37 Mt 19:28 in weakness.” Those who are utterly just the Roman church, but all of the surrendered to Him and dependent churches of the first century, the entire upon Him will cling together and “foolish nation.” What does it mean

46 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 47 The Church The term “church” in the New Testament describes a people who hat e elieve share a common life together based W W B on the teachings and prophetic vision of Yahshua, the Messiah.28 Collectively God, our Father His place at His Father’s side.13 He sent they form the “Body of Messiah”,29 We believe in the God of Abraham, His Spirit to fill His disciples on earth, so which is carrying out the work that Isaac, and Jacob, the Creator of all that they could complete the work that the Master began when He was on the things.1 He revealed Himself to Moses He began, in order to bring an end to earth, by the power of that same Holy 30 as Yahweh, “The Existing One”, a name the Evil One’s reign on the earth.14 He Spirit that empowered Him. They that expresses His eternal nature.2 He is will come back when He has a people are also known as the Commonwealth 31 loving and merciful, full of compassion.3 made perfectly ready,15 having become of Israel — a holy nation and royal 32 He is also righteous and just, and will just like Him.16 priesthood consisting of twelve self- 33 judge all of mankind according to their governing tribes in twelve distinct deeds.4 The Gospel geographical regions around the Although all of mankind is under world.34 Each tribe consists of many Our Master Yahshua* a death sentence because of their self-governing clans or communities.35 We believe that Yahshua (called sin,17 the good news is that our Master Each community consists of one or Jesus in most English ) was born Yahshua has paid for our sins with His more households in which all of the of a Hebrew virgin named Miriam own blood18 so that we can be released disciples in that locality maintain their (Mary), who was betrothed to Yoceph from that death sentence19 and spend unity as they live, work, pray, worship, (Joseph).5 He was conceived in Miriam’s the rest of our lives bringing about His and celebrate together.36 Through womb through a miraculous working will on the earth.20 If a person is truly the trials and sufferings of their life of the Holy Spirit, 6 not from the fallen willing to do the Father’s will, he will together,37 which is like a refining fire,38 seed of man. For this reason He is called receive faith when he hears about our they are being made progressively the Son of God. Although fully human,7 Master Yahshua from a true disciple.21 more like their Master Yahshua.39 They He embodied the very Word and Spirit Then he will utterly forsake his old life await His return for them,40 as a King of God.8 He chose to maintain intimate and all his possessions,22 dying in the coming for His bride when she is fully communion with His Father, never once waters of baptism,23 crying out to our prepared for Him.41 falling into sin.9 Because of the fear and Master Yahshua to save him from his jealousy of the religious leaders of His sins and give him a new life.24 He will The Last Days and the Coming day, He was crucified. Like a spotless be filled with the Holy Spirit25 and from Millennial Age lamb, His sinless life became an offering that time on he will no longer live for We believe that the world is for the sins of all mankind.10 After himself, but for the One who died for on a course towards one world paying for our sins for three days and Him.26 The practical reality of this is that government and one world religion, three nights11 in the agonies of death,12 he will share a common life of love and which will ultimately join together His spirit and soul returned to His body unity with those disciples who shared in an oppressive tyranny, bringing and He rose from the dead. Forty days the Good News with him.27 the world to the brink of destruction. later He ascended into heaven to take This will fulfill the prophetic dream

*Yahshua is our Savior’s original 12 Acts 2:24 28 Acts 2:42-46 Hebrew name (Acts 26:14-15), which 13 Acts 1:1-9 29 1 Cor 12:27; Col 1:24 means “Yahweh’s Salvation.” His name 14 Acts 1:8; 5:32; Jn 14:12; 1 Jn 3:8 30 Jn 14:12 incorporates His Father’s name (Jn 17:11- 15 Lk 1:17 31 Eph 2:12 12, NIV, NASB, RSV, NRSV; Jn 5:43). 16 Heb 10:13; Rev 19:7; 1 Jn 3:2-3 32 1 Pet 2:9-10 1 Gen 12:1-3; 14:19-20; Ex 3:6 17 Heb 9:27; Rom 6:23 33 Acts 26:7; Rev 21:9-14 2 Ex 3:14 18 Heb 9:14 34 Mal 1:5,11 3 Ex 34:6-7; Mt 9:12-13 19 Jn 5:24 35 Tit 1:5; Jer 30:20 – 31:1 4 Ecc 12:14; Ps 9:8 20 Mt 6:10 36 1 Cor 1:10; Eph 4:3; 1 Tim 2:8 5 Lk 1:27 21 Jn 7:17 37 Acts 14:22 6 Lk 1:35 22 Lk 14:33; Mk 10:21,28-30 38 1 Pet 1:6-9; 4:12-13 7 1 Tim 2:5; Heb 4:15 23 Rom 6:3-8 39 Rom 8:29; Phil 3:10-12; 1 Jn 3:2 8 Jn 1:1,14 24 Rom 10:13; 2 Cor 5:17 40 1 Ths 4:16-17; Mt 24:30-31 9 Jn 5:19; 8:29; Heb 4:15 25 Acts 2:38 41 Eph 5:26-27; Rev 19:7-8 10 Isa 53:1-12; Heb 9:14 26 2 Cor 5:15 11 Mt 12:40 27 Acts 2:42-46; 4:32-35; 1 Jn 3:14-18

46 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 47 of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, and gathers His followers to fight the on how he lives his life on this earth.57 recorded in the book of the prophet war that brings this age to an end.52 The There are three eternal destinies, one Daniel,42 as well as the prophecies armies of the Man of Lawlessness will for each of the three distinct categories of the last days recorded in the New gather in the Plain of Megiddo to try to of men: 1) the Unjust and Filthy; 2) the Testament. destroy the Messiah, Yahshua, and His Righteous; and 3) the Holy.58 As the boundaries are broken down holy ones.53 But He will be victorious Because of man’s sin, going back to between nations, and their ancient and will cleanse the earth of all evil. the original sin of Adam and Eve, he is cultures give way to the emerging The Evil One himself will be bound,54 under the sentence of death,59 but this global, multicultural society, so will the and Yahshua will take His throne in death is not eternal.60 There is a day absolute moral standards embodied Jerusalem to rule the earth with His appointed when all who have died will in these cultures give way to the law of holy ones for 1000 years of peace and be raised and will face their Creator to political correctness. Most people will restoration.55 be judged according to their deeds.61 become more and more like the Evil Those who rejected the true gospel One, giving themselves to every selfish after hearing it from a true disciple, and desire, regardless of the consequences, He sent His Spirit to fill His those who lived in such a way as to ruin increasing the ranks of the Unjust and disciples on earth, so that other people’s lives to satisfy their own 43 Filthy. Few will withstand the pressure they could complete the work cravings, will be judged worthy of a to compromise their conscience.44 second and eternal death in what the At the same time, the true followers that He began, in order to Bible calls the Lake of Fire.62 These are of Yahshua, the Messiah, will become bring an end to the Evil One’s the Unjust and Filthy.63 more and more like their Master, reign on the earth. He will Others, who never had the opportu- increasing in their love and care for one nity to hear the true gospel and yet con- another, and their unity as a twelve- come back when He has a sistently lived according to the dictates tribed spiritual nation.45 Just as the people made perfectly ready, of their conscience will not be found needy and the humble were drawn to worthy of a second death.64 These, the our Master Yahshua when He walked having become just like Him. Righteous, will have paid for their sins the earth, and the proud were repelled by their first death,65 and will enjoy a and infuriated by Him, so it will be with second life in an eternal kingdom under His people.46 Their light will attract At the end of that millennium, the the rulership of Messiah and His faithful those who hate their lives in this fallen Evil One will be released for a short followers, who are the Holy.66 world, and it will repel and irritate those time to test the hearts of men, and he There are others who may well have who are exposed and threatened by the will lead many astray. His rebellious committed deeds worthy of the second disciples’ life.47 army will be consumed, and the Evil death, but were convicted of their sinful Ultimately they will be driven out One himself cast into the Lake of Fire, condition and received faith when they of society by a world government the second death. Finally, all who have heard the Good News of Yahshua, the dominated by the Man of Lawlessness.48 died on the earth in all the ages will be Son of God.67 These are the Holy.68 They They will flee to the wilderness where resurrected for the final judgment. obeyed this gospel (see above), with they will endure the last few years the result that their sins were paid for by of this age.49 During this time their The Judgment and Man’s Messiah’s death on their behalf.69 Thus purification will be completed,50 while Eternal Destiny they no longer lived for themselves, but in the world from which they fled, the We believe that human beings are for Him,70 and as His bondservants, they degradation of man will reach its limit.51 eternal creatures, having an immortal share His eternal destiny — to rule and This will be the moment when Yahshua, soul and spirit that will exist forever.56 reign over the Righteous in the nations the Son of God, descends from heaven Each person’s eternal destiny depends of the eternal age.71p

42 Dan 2:31-44 52 1 Ths 4:16-17; Mt 24:30-31; 62 Rev 21:8; 22:15; Mt 25:41,46; 43 2 Tim 3:1-5; Rom 1:18-32 Rev 19:11-14 Rom 1:22-32 44 Rom 2:7; Rev 13:16-17 53 Rev 16:14,16; 19:19 63 Rev 22:11 45 Jn 17:20-23; 1 John 3:2-3; 54 Rev 20:2-3 64 Rom 2:6,7,10; Jn 5:28-29 Eph 5:26-27; Rev 19:7 55 Rev 20:4,6 65 Rom 6:23; Heb 9:27 46 Jn 15:18-21 56 Ecc 3:11 66 Mt 25:34-40 47 1 Cor 1:18; 2 Cor 4:3 57 Rom 2:5-11; Rev 20:12; Jn 5:28-29 67 1 Cor 6:11 48 2 Ths 2:9-12; Rev 13:3,8 58 Rev 22:11 68 Rev 22:11 49 Rev 12:6 59 Gen 2:17; Rom 6:23 69 2 Cor 5:21; Eph 2:13; Heb 9:14 50 Rev 19:7 60 Heb 9:27 70 2 Cor 5:14-15 51 Isa 66:17 61 Rev 20:12-14; Jn 5:28-29 71 Rev 2:26-27; 5:10

48 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 49 Outside the Camp or, “Can’t get there from here…”

Saul of Tarsus was a rabid persecutor of the early disciples. When he repented and received the Holy Spirit, he never persecuted another soul but devoted his life to loving people. He went outside the camp into a radically new life.

he early disciples in Jerusalem were respected by their neigh- Tbors, but socially they were shunned. The book of Acts says, “…they were all with one accord in Solomon’s portico [a public meeting place in the Jewish Temple]. But none of the rest dared to associate with them; however, the people held them in high esteem.”1 To the average Jew of the time, this group was strictly off-limits, no matter how moral its members were or how much good they did for others. After all, their leader, supposed to be the Messiah, had been condemned by the Priests and Rabbis and teachers of the Torah as a blasphemer – one who curses God. He had been turned over to the Gentile authorities with a demand that He be executed, and the Romans had taken Him outside the city and crucified Him along with common robbers. Since then, a number of the group’s leaders had been jailed. There was no telling what might happen to them next, and being linked to the group might suddenly become as dangerous as it was scandalous. Continued‡

1 Acts 5:12-13

48 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 49 “Excuse me sir. Where’s the camp exit?”. . . “Can’t get there from here.”

The disciples, however, expected are looking for the city that is to come. such treatment. The Master Himself (Hebrews 13:11-14) had said, “If the world hates you, you “Outside the camp” was where the “Outside the know that it has hated Me before it disciples ought to be, because that’s hated you”2 and, “If they have called where their Master was. But what camp” is where the head of the house Beelzebul [the was “the camp”? According to their prince of demons], how much more Master’s teaching, it was a religion full the members of his household?”3 They of hypocrisy (pretending), marked disciples ought were reminded that their Master’s cru- by well-advertised charitable dona- cifixion resembled the way carcasses of tions, long public prayers, and showy sacrificial animals were disposed of: religious acts.4 People in “the camp” to be, because The high priest carries the blood of honored God with their lips while their animals into the Most Holy Place as a hearts were far away.5 Their religion that’s where their sin offering, but the bodies are burned outside the camp. And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make 2 Jn 15:18 Master was. the people holy through his own blood. 3 Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, Mt 10:25 4 Mt 6:2-6, 16-18 bearing the disgrace he bore. For here 5 we do not have an enduring city, but we Mt 15:7-9 6 Mk 7:6-9

50 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 51 OUTSIDE the CAMP

The best efforts of the best people in the best positions to do the most good on earth have only managed to slow down the pace of the destruction.

was based on the traditions of men followers, proving rather than the commands of God.6 They His point. were careful in their rituals but neglect- But what ful of the people around them.7 They really proved His looked good to other people, but inside, point, His ultimate where only God could see, they were point, was the life that full of self-indulgence, dishonesty, and His disciples lived “out- lawlessness.8 side the camp.” It wasn’t The most striking picture of “the just that they got reviled camp” was one the Master Himself gave: and persecuted and killed “Hypocrites! You build tombs for the for the sake of His Name. It was prophets and decorate the graves of the that they actually lived a radically righteous. And you say, ‘If we had lived in different life from those who were the days of our forefathers, we would not inside “the camp.” They actually have taken part with them in shedding obeyed the Master’s teachings and the blood of the prophets.’ So you testify did the opposite of what the hypo- against yourselves that you are the descen- crites were doing. They did their good dants of those who murdered the prophets. deeds and prayed their prayers in Fill up, then, the measure of the sin of your secret. They drew near to God in their forefathers!” (Matthew 23:29-32) hearts and lived to please Him, rather That was the ultimate hypocrisy than men. They emphasized love and – they traced an unbroken religious justice and mercy and loyalty rather heritage back through history while than tithes and offerings and tradi- pretending not to have inherited the sins tions and ceremonies. They con- of their fathers. As most Bible readers centrated on their character and let should realize, it doesn’t work that way, their reputation take care of itself. because God “visits the iniquity of the And most importantly, they loved fathers upon the children to the third each other the way He had loved and the fourth generation of those who them – without reserve, not holding hate Me.” 9 And, as just about everybody on to their time or their possessions knows, the people He was addressing or their opinions or their own agendas. went on to kill both Him and many of His They contributed all they had to meeting each other’s needs. They were aban- doned to the Spirit of Love (which is the Spirit of God) and dedicated to seeing 7 Mt 23:14,23 His Kingdom established on the earth. 8 Mt 23:25-28 The effect was galvanizing. People 9 Ex 20:5; Dt 5:9 called them “these men who have 10 Acts 17:6 turned the world upside down”10 and 11 Acts 28:22 “this sect [cult] that is spoken against

50 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 51 OUTSIDE the CAMP everywhere.” 11 Yes, they were being hypocrites, pretending to give all, while important have had places of honor.” spoken against, just like the head of holding back a portion for themselves. Well, the “big deal” is this: that’s what their house had been called the prince Even some of Paul’s co-workers had life “inside the camp” had been like. of demons. And who, mainly, was deserted him when difficult times The rich religious men had made long speaking against them? Why, those came. But, sooner or later, the light public prayers to show how much they “inside the camp,” of course – the ones of the “life outside the camp” had loved God while “devouring the houses whose false religious game was being exposed the insincere. of widows” who were made in God’s shown up for the empty shell that it When we come to James and Rev- image. And the Son of God had cried was. The disciples were hounded from elation, however, we get the picture out in warning about the judgment town to town by religious pretenders of a faithful few, surrounded by many that was going to fall on such pretend- – slandered, and beaten, and killed. But who had subtly compromised and ers. Those who heard the call had gone everywhere they went, people were lost their love and stopped caring for out to Him, outside the camp, where being saved, becoming disciples, and widows and orphans and had become there were no rich and poor.13 learning to love others just as their stained by the world. In some places, By the time the book of James Master had loved them. the whole group of “believers” had was written, life “outside the camp” Now we come to a difficult point stopped loving and had become self- had all but vanished, and it had been in the story. It is a turning point, one satisfied and complacent and unaware replaced by “the camp” – only it was marked by many passages in the New of their spiritual bankruptcy. Rich called by another name. It was the Testament, but especially by the book guests were preferred over poor ones, “Christian camp” instead of the “Jewish of James and the first three chapters of and there were apparently even rich camp.” The “new religion” had become the book of Revelation. All along, the “disciples” and poor “disciples.”12 focused on various “teachings and disciples had found insincere people Some people might read these traditions of men” that were different in their midst. The Master Himself had things and say, “What’s the big deal from the “old religion,” but they had picked Judas Iscariot to be an apostle, about that? All down through Chris- stopped paying attention to “the com- but the man had chosen to be a trai- tian history there have been rich and mands of God.”14 What followed was tor. Ananias and Sapphira had been poor in the Church, and the rich and nearly 2000 years of “camp life.”

12 Rv 2:4-5; 3:1-4, 14-19; Jms 1:26-2:9; 4:1-4; 5:1-6 13 Acts 4:34-35 14 Mt 15:7-9; Mk 6:7-9

By the time the book of James was written, life “outside the camp” had all but vanished, and it had been replaced by “the camp”.

52 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 53 The Anabaptist movement arose among disillusioned people, many of them young, who were dissatisfied with the empty rituals of the established church.

Now, this is where just about tray an unknowable God who predes- of the societies they lived in, but not everybody gets overwhelmed. Trudg- tines some to eternal life and others to about the teachings of the Son of God, ing through 20 centuries of Church eternal damnation based, not on their like turning the other cheek, walking History can be pretty overwhelming, choices, but on His own cosmic whims. the extra mile, loving one’s enemies, and we are not going to do it here. But Augustine was preoccupied, not with etc. even just a casual acquaintance with loving people in the same way that our Probably someone will say, “Well, the famous people of Christian History Master loved, but with refuting “her- those men were just products of their causes people to protest, “What? 2000 etics” and working out neat theological age. Don’t be too quick to judge them years of nothing but empty religion? arguments to justify the use of physi- because religious persecution was What about the great theologians like cal force to change people’s religious common back then. Roman Catho- Augustine, or the great reformers like opinions. lics had been persecuting people for Luther and Calvin, or radical groups Luther and Calvin were both Augus- centuries.” But that’s exactly the point. like the Anabaptists of the 16th Cen- tinian monks before they became re- That’s all Luther and Calvin were tury? And what about Billy Graham or formers, and they brought Augustine’s – mere products of their age, and noth- Mother Teresa or the Jesus Movement, horrible doctrine of “just persecution” ing more. By contrast, Saul of Tarsus, for goodness sake?” into the churches they established. 1500 years earlier, was a rabid persecu- Well, the “what” about all of them Calvin was the driving force behind tor of the early disciples, but when he is that none of them brought back the having Michael Servetus burned at the repented and received the Holy Spirit, “life outside the camp” that the Son stake for the “sins” of questioning the he never persecuted another soul but of God established in the beginning. doctrine of the Trinity and rejecting devoted his life to loving people. He Augustine wrote many persuasive ar- infant baptism. Luther wrote several was a product of something greater guments about the nature of God and pamphlets vehemently calling for the than the age he lived in. He went sin and so on, but his writings don’t death of Anabaptists and the persecu- “outside the camp” into a radically produce disciples with fervent love for tion of Jews. They were very concerned new life and then spent the rest of his one another. On the contrary, they por- about moral principles and the stability days spreading that life everywhere

52 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 53 OUTSIDE the CAMP he went. Calvin and Luther merely less Mennonite, , and Hutterian religion. They also wanted to do what re-formed the Roman , sects. Jesus had said in the Bible. Many of establishing another form of the same As for the world-famous Christian them started living together and “camp life” they had been raised in. icons, Billy Graham and Mother Teresa, sharing their possessions. But there Contemporary with the heretic- much could be said (and is regularly) the resemblance to the Anabaptists hunting Catholics and Reformers was a about all they have done. Dr. Graham ended. They experimented with differ- different movement, the Anabaptists. has preached a message acceptable to ent forms of worship and alternative This movement arose among disillu- nearly every lifestyles, but they didn’t separate from sioned people, many of them young, for half a century. He has perhaps done the mainstream, and they weren’t per- who were dissatisfied with the empty more to bring Christianity together secuted. Within a few years almost all rituals of the established church. These on common ground than any single the Christian had disband- non-conformists burned with zeal for human being since the fourth cen- ed and the people involved had either liberty of conscience and freedom to tury, when the Emperor Constantine given up on Christianity altogether or determine their own forms of worship. required the quarreling Christian settled into some congregation some- They were a loose and spontaneous bishops to hold ecumenical councils where, quietly listening to the preacher movement whose bold rejection of and subscribe to a standard set of be- or teacher. They didn’t go out to the infant baptism quickly drew persecu- liefs. And Mother Teresa, winner of the Master, outside the camp, bearing the tion down on them from every side. Nobel Peace Prize for her charity work, disgrace He bore. But they were convicted that they has done much to make the Catholic Of course, that’s not the whole should obey the commands of Jesus in Church acceptable to Evangelicals, story. There have been many Christian the Bible. So, rather than fight for their who half a century ago viewed the Ro- movements in the last 2000 years that rights, they let their Protestant and man Church with suspicion. broke away from the status quo, and Catholic enemies torture and kill them These two Christian figureheads many stirrings within Christian congre- by the thousands. Their defenseless have a vast reputation for integrity, but gations, but they all wound up having slaughter by the Christian authorities have they obeyed the command of one thing in common: they didn’t caused many of their neighbors to re- the Son of God to do their good deeds recapture the vibrant, self-sacrific- ject Protestantism and Catholicism and in secret and to “beware of practicing ing life of love and oneness that was join the Anabaptists. The fire and zeal your piety before others in order to present in the first disciples. It’s almost of the movement flourished in spite of be seen by them”?15 Are they “outside like the story of the traveler who got persecution (and, perhaps, because of the camp” bearing the disgrace the hopelessly lost in the back roads of it) from around 1525 to around 1560. Master bore? Or do all men speak well New England and finally pulled up to Meeting in secret, fleeing from place of them?16 an old farmhouse to ask directions. to place, they took care of each other, The Jesus Movement of the 1970s The aged farmer listened silently to the shared all they had with each other, was a little like the Anabaptist move- man’s story for awhile, and when the and refused under the most inhuman ment in that it was loose, spontaneous, traveler finally named the destination torture to betray one another. For a and made up mostly of young people he was trying to reach, the old man while it seemed that the same self- who were dissatisfied with mainstream began to thoughtfully stroke his chin. sacrificing life of love that the early disciples had lived was being restored. At the very least, they were outside the 15 Mt 6:1 century. Vastly diverse groups camp, and they were definitely bearing 16 Lk 6:26 are encouraged to ignore their reproach. 17 A Different World? The differences and work together as a But less than 35 years after the ecumenical movement is a powerful positive force in society. The goal movement had begun, they started force on the earth today. Even is to get everyone together under disintegrating. One leader disagreed though Christian groups continue to one immense religious umbrella. To with another, and instead of resolving divide, at the same time, splintered put it another way, one big camp their differences, they wound up divid- factions are being drawn back is being established where all the ing from one another. Their followers together. This is not a return to the smaller camps can camp together divided from each other as well, and perfect unity that the Son of God — including Judaism — a clear each group refused to have anything prayed for in John 17:22-23 — being picture that there is essentially no to do with the other. Before long, each one just as He and His Father are difference between the Christian of those factions split too, and soon one. It is more like the cooperation Church and the camp that crucified all that was left of the Anabaptists between quarreling bishops that the Master outside its gates. were little splinter groups with strange Constantine secured in the 4th 18 Mt 24:14; Acts 2:42-45; 4:32-35 names and rigid customs – the count- 54 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 55 Finally he replied, “Can’t get there from We invite all men everywhere to join us in being here.” Many people have reached this conclusion, that there is no way to get devoted to the life of love that our Master gave His to that place “outside the camp” where the first disciples bore the disgrace of blood to establish on the earth – outside the camp. their crucified Master, the one to whom they belonged, heart and soul, body and possessions. It was just for that what is in them. And He is still stirring, News that He preached (not some time back then, they say. The world is still looking, still ready to strengthen, watered-down version) is proclaimed different now.17 because His will has not been ac- everywhere. And it will only come if But that’s not the whole story, either. complished yet. Satan’s tyranny over that message produces the same wit- 2 Chronicles 16:9 says, “The eyes of the mankind has not been brought to an ness of the coming Kingdom that was LORD move to and fro throughout the end. War, terrorism, crime, poverty, seen in the love and unity of the first earth that He may strongly support immorality, hypocrisy, greed, broken disciples in Jerusalem.18 those whose heart is completely His.” families, etc., all point to the grip that We have felt the stirring, we have We who write this paper think that this the evil one has on the earth. heard the call, we have been through means that all down through history The best efforts of the best people a little of the testing, and we know God has been stirring things up on the in the best positions to do the most there’s a lot more to come. But we earth to see if He could find people good on earth have only managed to invite all men everywhere to join us in who would turn themselves over to slow down the pace of the destruction. being devoted to the life of love that Him completely, ready to do nothing Only the triumphant return of God’s our Master gave His blood to establish but His will. We think that when there Messiah is going to bring the end. And on the earth, outside the camp.p is a “stirring,” He tests people to see the end will only come when the Good

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n the primitive church of the first terly abandoned themselves and their They were to be “a light to the world, century there was a pervading own independent lives and posses- a city set on a hill.”5 The world could ethic that held all of its members sions to love Him back. They did this not observe anything mystical. They I 1 together. The Book of Acts records by loving all those He died for. This have to see spiritual unity in a physical, that “all who believed were together” was their first love. It was their simple observable body.6 This unity is only and it is safe to say that all who did devotion to the One they loved. This possible if it is set securely upon the not believe were not together. The became the foundation of the Body firm foundation of love. This visible ethic that caused them to be together of Messiah. unity was evident in the early church. and stay together was love for their On the day of Pentecost, when They were all of one heart and mind,7 Master and Savior. Jesus Christ was three thousand people were bap- under one anointing.8 They were the one who had loved them first with tized, they abandoned everything in continually devoting themselves to the the greatest self-sacrificing love ever obedience to the many other words of apostles’ teaching9 and they all spoke recorded in history. Theirs was a simple the gospel spoken by Peter. (See the with confidence in their assemblies.10 love affair of the heart, a passionate article, Saving Faith on page 52 of Part There were no needy among them response to the One who loved them Two) Laying their possessions at the for they shared all their possessions in first. It was the love that abandoned apostles’ feet, they walked away from common as any had need.11 They were all for the sake of the One who aban- the established camp of Judaism and certainly set apart and clearly distinct doned all for them. formed a brand new culture. It was the as the new spiritual nation observable Certainly, it was not a complicated new wine poured out into a brand new by the lost. of the mind that motivated wineskin, just as Jesus had said must them. It was simple obedience to the happen.3 He promised that as long What Happened to that Life of Love? gospel that called them to lay down as they stayed solidly on that founda- What happened from then till now? their lives for their brothers. For the tion of love and obedience, He would Does the church today still bear the Messiah had laid down His life for continue to reveal Himself to them. same distinctive characteristics of its them, and the only fitting response And so the gates of Hades would never original foundation? Is it controlled or was to love their brothers the same prevail against them if they continued governed by the same ethic of love? way He had loved them.2 So they ut- in obedience to the Savior’s words.4 Could one honestly say that the church

The first century church was a community where the love of God was daily expressed through their love for one another.

56 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 57 today bears any resemblance to its He would not have said this if it were The complacent laity filled the pews, early roots? not possible that their love could be while the self-satisfied preachers filled And when did it change? Long ago corrupted. He said essentially the same the pulpits. The people found their way — longer ago and closer to the time thing to the Corinthian church: to church once per week in order to of the vibrant life of the first-century “If anyone does not love the Lord let secure their spot on a cloud with a harp. church than you may have ever thought him be accursed. Maranatha!” That’s all they had to look forward to. possible. They were led astray from their (1 Corinthians 16:22) The clergy basked in their own self-glo- first love.12 They allowed the trap of self- The expression “Maranatha!” in this ry as their sermons tickled the ears of life to creep in through the craftiness context meant “Come, O Lord, and cut the naive. Again religion became, “the of the Evil One. When self-life reared its them off!” — those in the church who blind leading the blind.” ugly head, love began to be smothered. don’t love you. When they left their We who write this paper have a hope There is no way for these two rivals to first love, they were cut off from grace, that the prophecy of Isaiah 49:6 will be co-exist. As love was the beginning and which meant that everything they said fulfilled in our day. It will be the restora- the basis of this new culture, it was also and did was in their natural strength, tion of the same twelve-tribed spiritual the first thing to disappear. Since self- for their own glory. That was all they nation that began in the first century.19 sacrificing love is the only thing that had to seek for, having rejected the We have a hope that a great light of could unite the disciples, when it died, glory of the Father, which would have love will emerge upon the earth that division came in and their unity went made them one.16 Without grace there will shine brighter than all the words out the door. is no way to meet the demands of love that have ever been spoken. This light The apostles could see these things and there is certainly no way to live will be the witness and demonstration happening and wrote many letters to together.17 of the kingdom of heaven on earth that the churches pleading with them in One by one, their lampstands were all people can see. We hope that you tears to repent and come back to their removed, just as the Master had warned can hear the call in your heart to seek first love. They could see the splintering them.18 There is no record in history and not give up until you find the place denominations on the horizon. They that the vibrant life of love that charac- where it all began again with love. shuddered to see the spirit of the old terized the first communities survived If it began with love and ended camp creeping into this new culture.13 beyond the first century. It was replaced by the lack of it, it must be restored They saw the craftiness of the Evil One with a mere form of religion of an en- with the same love that it had at the taking its toll on the once pure virgin, tirely different nature. Their love was re- beginning.p betrothed to Messiah, with no other placed with dead rituals and traditions loves.14 They remembered the dead re- that put people’s souls in bondage. ligion they had come out of and urged the churches to hold fast to what they 1 In this sense, ethic means 1) the principles of right and wrong that are accepted by 15 had already attained. an individual or a social group, and 2) a system of principles governing morality and The last thing Paul said in his letter to acceptable conduct. The guiding principle, or ethic, of the Body of Messiah is, of course, the church in Ephesus was: love. 2 Jn 13:34; 1 Jn 3:16,23 3 Luke 5:36-39 4 Mt 16:16-18; Jn 14:21 5 Mt 5:14-16 “Grace be with all those who love our 6 Jn 17:20-23 7 Acts 4:32 8 1 John 2:20,27 9 Acts 2:42 10 1 Cor 14:26; 1 Pet 4:11; Heb 3:6 Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible (or 11 Acts 4:34-35 12 Rev 2:4 13 1 Cor 1:10-13 14 2 Cor 11:3-4 15 Rom 11:21-22 undying) love.” (Ephesians 6:24; then see 16 John 17:20-23 17 Jn 5:24; 1 Jn 3:14,16,23 18 Rev 2:5 19 Acts 26:7; Jms 1:1; Gal 6:16 Rev 2:4-5)

They allowed the trap of self-life to creep in through the craftiness of the Evil One. When self-life reared its ugly head, love began to die.

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To know that the Language, as the late Dr. Walter Mar- and behavior by placing boundaries on tin pointed out in his book Kingdom of what is possible. It is ideas that deter- Church is divided the Cults, is very signifi cant. For good mine the actions of people. Men and and to say it is not, or ill, it consists of thoughts, ideas, women can only do what they can put to know that Paul and the changing meanings of words into words. Even their ideas are deter- by which, “entire churches, thrones, mined by the meanings of the words condemned divisions and governments have been erected, as they understand them. To redefi ne and to say he did not, sustained, or overthrown.” 1 words, then, is an attempt to control He goes on to say that language is what enters into a person’s mind to do, to believe that God is one of the chief ways cultists misuse or even to dream. As Dr. Martin said, one and His people the Bible, by cleverly redefi ning terms “Language is, to be sure, a complex are not, and to teach to create a seeming harmony with subject; all are agreed on this. But one Biblical truth. For them, redefi nitions of thing is beyond dispute, and that is that others these things, is words and ideas have become tools of in context words mean just what they classic doublethink. control of those under their sway. say. Either we admit this or we must be Redefi ning words controls thought prepared to… return to writing on cave walls with charcoal sticks in the tradition pamphlet, “Growing as a Christian] defined? Wouldn’t Dr. Martin, the of our alleged stone-age ancestors.” respected anti-cultist, insist we use If words do not mean what they say, [I have] a concern to “major on ma- the plain meaning of unity? Or should then communication becomes either jors” and so not isolate ourselves from we use the redefinitions of today’s impossible or meaningless. However, fellow Christians with whom we may not Christian leaders? Billy Graham sees a if a cult member can be called back to entirely agree… In practice, this commit- “mysterious unity,” meaning hard to the original meanings of the terms his ment to “preserve the unity of the Spirit understand, even hidden from sight. leaders have redefined for him, then in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3) Pastor Hugenberger tells us that God’s he can be set free from the very real means that we refuse to divide over such unity, the “unity of the Spirit,” is only bondage he is in. Using the ominous important, but nevertheless secondary about a few essentials. Pastor Chuck “Big Brother” state of George Orwell’s issues as church polity, baptism, style Smith implies that the Father and the novel, 1984, Martin compares what can of worship, eschatology, the gifts of the Son, like the Church, only have “virtual happen in politics to what does happen Spirit, Calvinism, the ordination of wom- divisions” not real ones. in cults. “The redefinition of common en, etc.” [Pastor Gordon Hugenberger, Do they not realize that their mysti- political terms can lead to slavery when Park Street Church, Boston, MA] 2 cal concepts are blatantly untrue? it is allowed to pass unchallenged by a lethargic populace.” Unity has been redefined to include, When words and ideas are success- fully redefined, and the new definitions if not equal, division. This definition are accepted by most of the people, then a new “reality” has come about. blatantly contradicts its plain meaning. Anything outside of that reality takes on an air of unreality — if not insanity. “Paul points out that some say, “I’m of When religious leaders so radically re- So we return to Martin’s insistence on Paul,” while others say, “I’m of Apollos.” define terms like unity and division, are words meaning just what they say. He asked, “Isn’t that carnal?” But what’s Christians not justified in suspecting In light of this, let’s look up some the difference between saying that or say- them of having a hidden agenda and very important words in a dictionary. ing, “I’m a Baptist,” “I’m a Presbyterian,” seeking to control how their followers They have to do with how we think “I’m a Methodist,” “I’m a Catholic”? I have think? At Dr. Martin’s urging, let’s turn about God the Father, Son, and Holy found that the more spiritual a person to 1984 for another definition. Spirit, and the Church, which is the becomes, the less denominational he is. • Doublethink — “To know and not to Body of Christ on earth. Considering We should realize that we’re all part of the know, to be conscious of complete truth- the meaning of these words and how Body of Christ and that there aren’t any fulness while telling carefully constructed they are used by great Christian leaders real divisions in the Body. We’re all one.” lies, to hold simultaneously two opinions of today will help us judge what “real- [Pastor Chuck Smith, Calvary Chapel]3 which cancelled out, knowing them to ity” we live in. be contradictory and believing in both of • Unity — a) an unreduced or unbro- It may be difficult to realize that them…” 4 ken completeness or totality; b) the these men have redefined unity to To know that the Church is divided state of being one; oneness, a thing include, if not equal, division. The ways and to say it is not, to know that Paul undivided. they use the words “unity, division, and condemned divisions and to say he • Division — a) the act or process of denomination” blatantly contradicts did not, to believe that God is one dividing; b) discord that splits a group. their plain meanings. They give every and His people are not, and to teach • Denomination — a) the act of nam- appearance of not wanting the people others these things, is classic double- ing; b) a group of religious congrega- they teach to think that unity means think. It may well be “historic Christian tions having its own organization and a oneness, a thing undivided, unbroken doctrine” but it is not the truth. It is distinctive faith. completeness. Yet this actual unity is doublethink. Armed with these quotes and defini- what Jesus prayed for before He died: So, are you in a cult? Or do you be- tions, let’s consider the words of some “that they may be one, Father, as lieve that God’s words can be accepted famous religious leaders and see how you and I are one.” (John 17:21) to mean just what they say?p they pass the test of “words meaning How then should this oneness be just what they say.” “I have learned that although Christians do not always agree, 1 Martin’s quotes are from his website: http://www.waltermartin.org/cults.html#semant they can disagree agreeably,” and 2 From his “Personal Statement of Faith” at http://www.parkstreet.org/pulpit/ghfaith.shtml “within the true church there is a 3 “Answers for Today” at: http://calvarychapel.com/library/smith-chuck/books/aft.htm#20 mysterious unity that overrides 4 Available online at: http://www.online-literature.com/orwell/1984 all divisive factors.” [Billy Graham THE RIGHTEOUSNESS of GOD

Thoughtful people have long struggled in the face of the Christian doctrine of Heaven and Hell, causing them to consider the destiny of the countless millions of people who have never had the opportunity to hear about Jesus.

This question looms in the minds of many Christians, and the classic answer, at least from the Calvinist camp, makes God out to be a vindictive1 monster: all men are born totally depraved, worthy of eternal damnation regardless of how they live their lives or whether they have ever heard of Jesus Christ. We utterly reject this misrepresentation of What about God’s justice and would like to set the record straight from the Holy Scriptures. While it is not possible for a man to work his way to heaven, it is the also not true that he is doomed to eternal death regardless of how he lives his life. What is the truth about man’s eternal destiny? HAreeathen? all men doomed to First of all, it is true that when Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s command in the Garden of Eden eternal death who have and ate the forbidden fruit, they incurred the sentence of death: never heard the gospel? And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:16-17) 60 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 61 1 vindictive — disposed to seek re- venge; showing malicious ill will and Their physical death was not imme- The sea gave up the dead who were in it, a desire to hurt; motivated by spite. diate, but their spiritual death was, and and Death and Hades delivered up the 2 Rom 3:23 their fallen condition was passed on dead who were in them. And they were 3 Rom 6:23 to their offspring, as the record shows, judged, each one according to his works. 4 Heb 9:27 “for all have sinned and fall short of the Then Death and Hades were cast into the 5 There is a judgment of believers 2 glory of God.” Therefore, since “the lake of fire. This is the second death. And that Paul describes in 2 Corinthians 3 wages of sin is death,” then “it is ap- anyone not found written in the Book of 5:10 and 1 Corinthians 3:12-15, but pointed for men to die once, but after Life was cast into the lake of fire.(Revela- its purpose is to determine who is 4 this the judgment.” tion 20:11-15) worthy to rule with Christ during the This much is clear to most Christians, Let’s be clear: this is not the judg- Millennial Age. This judgment takes but what happens after the judgment? ment of believers in Christ, for their place at Christ’s return, 1000 years This is the part that is widely misunder- eternal destiny does not depend on before the so-called “Great White 5 stood. But remember, the Bible says “it their works. This is the judgment of all Throne” judgment. But the eternal is appointed for men to die once…” It those who died without Christ. They are destiny of true believers is sealed ac- doesn’t say twice. Yet there is a second raised from the firstdeath to be judged cording to Ephesians 1:13-14. death: as to whether they are worthy of the 6 The “cowardly and unbelieving” But for the cowardly and unbelieving second death, based on how they lived in Revelation 21:8 are those who and abominable and murderers and im- their lives. rejected the gospel as John 3:18,36 moral persons and sorcerers and idolaters Now some will say this judgment is describes, not those who never heard and all liars, their part will be in the lake merely a formality — not a judgment the gospel. But some Christians will that burns with fire and brimstone, which at all, but a sentencing. They will say say there is no excuse, because if is the second death. (Revelation 21:8) that no one’s name was found written anyone were really sincere, God would This verse identifies a certain char- in the Book of Life because they didn’t send a missionary to him, even in the 6 acter of people whose destiny will be a believe in Jesus, so all were cast into remotest corner of China. Rightly did second and unending death in the lake the lake of fire. They fail to distinguish our Master say of such self-righteous of fire. But what about those who are between this “Book of Life” for the judges: “Woe to you, for you travel not of that character? That is why there nations and the “Lamb’s Book of Life” over land and sea to win one convert, must be a judgment: for the holy nation. They suppose that and when he is won, you make him Then I saw a great white throne and God raises men from the first death to twice as much a son of hell as your- Him who sat on it, from whose face the stand before Him so that He can gloat selves!” (Mt 23:15) earth and the heaven fled away. And at them while He pretends to look up there was found no place for them. And their name in the Book of Life, knowing I saw the dead, small and great, stand- it will not be there. Then He callously ing before God, and books were opened. casts them into the lake of fire. But this What about the millions of people And another book was opened, which is not God’s character. who never had the opportunity to is the Book of Life. And the dead were Abraham, the father of our faith, judged according to their works, by the when he appealed to God to spare the hear about Jesus Christ? Are they things which were written in the books. few righteous in Sodom, knew some- going to eternal destruction?

60 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 61 THE RIGHTEOUSNESS of GOD thing about the character of God that not do this perfectly, God still held him requires capital punishment for any escapes many Christians today: accountable to exercise his will to over- who would fail to respect His image in “Far be it from You to do such a thing come the temptation to do evil, just as his fellow man to the point of com- as this, to slay the righteous with the He told Cain: mitting murder. But beyond that, God wicked, so that the righteous should be “If you do what is right, will you not commissioned Noah and his sons after as the wicked; far be it from You! Shall be accepted? But if you do not do what the flood to be fruitful and multiply not the Judge of all the earth do right?” is right, sin is crouching at your door; it abundantly on the earth. If man was (Genesis 18:25) desires to have you, but you must master now worthless and totally depraved, Of course Abraham was especially it.” (Genesis 4:7) why would a loving Creator want to fill thinking of his nephew Lot, and God Of course, Cain did not master it, but the earth with such creatures? heard his plea and rescued Lot and his all are not like Cain. All do not murder. So fallen man still bears the image daughters. Although he was not in- All are not immoral. Many strive to do of his Creator and retains intrinsic11 cluded in the covenant with Abraham, the good they know in their conscience, worth to the degree that he lives by the Lot is described as being righteous.7 and are grieved when they fail, and do knowledge of good and evil, inherent12 And while this passage does not speak everything possible to make restitu- in his conscience. Even though he has of Lot’s eternal destiny, but merely his temporal deliverance from the destruc- tion of Sodom, yet it speaks of God’s character as understood by Abraham, Far be it from you to slay the righteous with the the friend of God.8 We stand with Abraham, knowing wicked, treating the righteous and wicked alike. that God will righteously judge all people according to their works, and not just throw them all willy-nilly into Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the lake of fire. Those who are notwor- thy of the second death will be granted the earth do what is right? (GENESIS 18:25) a second life, and it is over them that Messiah and His Bride (those who have tion when they do wrong. These have an inborn inclination to sin, he is able truly believed in Him) will rule through- a natural righteousness of their own, and accountable to do the good that out eternity.9 a natural faith or persuasion that God he knows in his conscience and to keep Now let’s take a closer look at the is good and that He will judge all men himself from the kinds of sins that would basis of this judgment: justly. They value the dignity of life. They make him worthy of the second death.13 “Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the recognize the image of the Creator in His Yet regardless of how careful a man man has become like one of Us, knowing creation. They work hard and are faithful is to live by his conscience, he will not good and evil…” (Genesis 3:22) in their marriages.10 They labor to put do so perfectly, for he is a fallen crea- After Adam ate from the tree of their values into their children. They bear ture. He will sin, and his sin must be the knowledge of good and evil, he suffering without growing bitter. They paid for, as it is an inviolable law that would have to live by that knowledge, try to keep a good conscience. And God the wages of sin is death. A man’s good choosing to do the good and not to do does not despise their efforts. deeds cannot save him from the conse- the evil. Even though fallen man could True, all men sin and fall short of quences of his sin — the first death. His the glory of God, but not all fall utterly natural righteousness cannot restore short. Glory means weight or value. him to fellowship with God, nor make Adam, before he fell, had great value, him worthy of ruling and reigning with 7 2 Peter 2:7-8 having been made in God’s image. Christ. All of his good deeds are of no 8 2 Chr 20:7; Isa 41:8; James 2:23 When he fell, God’s image in him was more value than filthy rags14 for obtain- 9 Rev 22:3-5 marred, but not obliterated. This is very ing the righteousness of God, which 10 Gen 3:16-19 clear from what God said after Adam’s can only be imputed to a man on the 11 intrinsic — belonging to a thing by fall, and in fact even after the Flood: basis of faith, which comes from hear- its very nature. “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man ing the word of Christ from someone 12 inherent — existing as an essential his blood shall be shed; for in the image sent to preach the Good News.15 constituent or characteristic; in the of God He made man. And you, be fruit- So whoever dies without Christ must nature of something. ful and multiply; abound on the earth go to the first death to pay the wages 13 Rev 21:8; 22:15; Rom 1:28-32 and multiply in it.” (Genesis 9:6-7) of his own sin, since he does not have a 14 Isa 64:6 Man still bears God’s image and sacrifice for his sins. How then does he 15 Rom 10:13-17 has great value in God’s eyes, as He pay these wages? It is according to how 62 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 63 The righteous are not perfect much worth remains in him, how much integrity and courage he has to face and do sin. the truth about himself. For in death Still, they work he is finally alone with his conscience, hard and are forced to face his sin, with nowhere faithful in their to hide and nothing to distract his marriages, mind from the awareness of his own abiding by guilt. Every evil deed, every base the truth they thought, every selfish motive comes know in their out of hiding to torture him. Like a conscience. worm burrowing into the recesses of his memory, eating away at his every excuse, so is the path of his thoughts as his conscience fully awakens. The un- quenchable fire of his self-inquisition leaves him either weeping in remorse or gnashing his teeth as he resists the truth about himself.16 Those who resist the truth, reason- ing away their guilt even in death, prove themselves unable to pay sin’s The latter, in death, will weep in re- over Restored Man,21 and the original wages. They are the same in death as morse, accepting the full responsibility commission given to Adam will be re- they were in life — set in their ways, for their sins rather than blaming them stored to him, once sin and death and their hearts fully hardened by the on others. They are the ones who are the evil one himself are no more:22 deceitfulness of sin. A second death able to pay sin’s wages. When they are “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth awaits them, where they will gnash resurrected to stand judgment, they and subdue it; have dominion over the their teeth eternally. There is a mystery will have fully received the discipline of fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, here. King David wrote, death and will find mercy and not con- and over every living thing that moves on “From heaven the LORD looks down demnation. This mercy and comfort the earth.” (Genesis 1:28) and sees all mankind; from His dwelling will come at the hands of the bride of Amazingly, in Psalm 8, King David place He watches all who live on earth Messiah, who, according to the Apostle prophesied that man (both the re- — He who forms the hearts of all, who Paul, 18 will be judging the nations on deemed and restored man) would rule considers everything they do.” (Psalm 33: God’s behalf. They will wipe away the over all the works of God’s hands, in- 13-15) tears of those who were judged not cluding all the galaxies of planets. Surely The Creator of man forms, fashions, worthy of the second death: without death, restored man will quickly or molds each man’s heart according to “Then I saw the holy city, New Jerusa- fill up the earth and go on to colonize what he does or gives himself to. Even- lem, coming down out of heaven from the universe with restored humanity, tually the heart, like clay, becomes “set” God, prepared as a bride adorned for her under the ever-increasing government in its way, and so that person’s charac- husband. And I heard a loud voice from of God23 — the redeemed corporate24 ter will remain eternally17 — some bent heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of man, which is the wife25 of Messiah. towards evil, and some towards good. God is with men, and He will dwell with So we hope that you can see that them, and they shall be His people. God there is a lot more in God’s heart 16 Rom 2:14-16; Mt 18:34; Acts 2:24; Himself will be with them and be their towards His highest creation, mankind, 1 Cor 15:55-56 God. And God will wipe away every tear than to throw countless millions into 17 Rev 22:11 from their eyes; there shall be no more the lake of fire for the crime of not hav- 18 1 Cor 6:2 death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall ing been born in the right place and 19 Rev 21:9 be no more pain, for the former things time to hear the true gospel. If you are 20 Rev 21:9,12 have passed away.” (Revelation 21:2-4) interested in reading more about man’s 21 Rev 22:5 The “tabernacle” or “dwelling place” eternal destiny, please visit our web site, 19 22 Rev 20:10,14 of God is the bride or wife of Messiah, www.commonwealthofisrael.org, and 23 Rev 21:24, NKJV; Isa 9:6-7 who will dwell with men — the resur- look for the section about The Three 24 Corporate — composed of indi- rected righteous people of the nations. Eternal Destinies of Man. Or better yet, viduals acting together as one entity. That is how God Himself will be with just come and visit one of our commu- 20 25 Rev 21:9,12 them — through the wife of Messiah. nities and we will be more than happy Redeemed Man will rule with Messiah to talk with you.p 62 www.commonwealthofisrael.org 1- 888 - 893-5838 63 E D A H — The word for community A Few of Our Homes & Farms in Hebrew is edah, which also means AND SOME OF OUR PEOPLE IN SOME beehive. This word portrays the way a group of people or hive of bees live and OF OUR COMMUNITIES AROUND THE WORLD. work together with a common identity. United States (888-893-5838) Bees live a selfl ess life of devotion to the Community in Vista, 2683 Foothill Drive, Vista, CA 92084 % bee kingdom. They have no concern for (760) 295-3852 Community in Island Pond, P. O. Box 449, Island Pond, VT 05846 themselves but only for the hive and the % (802) 723-9708 constant production of honey. So it is with Basin Farm, P. O. Box 108, Bellows Falls, VT 05101 those who are in the communities of God. % (802) 463-3230 Community in Rutland, 115 Lincoln Avenue, Rutland, VT 05701 % (802) 747-7217 Like a Swarm Community in Boston, 92 Melville Ave, Dorchester, MA 02124 Vista, California % (617) 282-9876 Have you ever watched a bee- Community in Plymouth, 35 Warren Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360 hive? It is fascinating seeing thou- % (508) 747-5338 sands of little bees working together Community in Lancaster, 12 High Street, Lancaster, NH 03584 to produce honey. As you come near % (603) 788-4376 the hive, you can hear an exciting Community in Coxsackie, 7 Ely Street, Coxsackie, NY 12051 buzz as they go about the many % (518) 731-7711 tasks necessary to keep the hive Oak Hill Plantation, Rt. 81, Box 81A, Oak Hill, NY 12460 % (518) 239-8148 alive. The workers are responsible Common Sense Farm, 41 N. Union Street, Cambridge, NY 12816 to collect nectar and guard the hive. % (518) 677-5880 The young bees keep the hive in Community in Ithaca, 413 S. Albany Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 good condition, feed the larvae, and % (607) 256-9410 support in other household chores. Community on the Lake of the Ozarks, 1140 Lay Ave, Warsaw, MO 65355 There is never a dull moment in the % (660) 438-4481 busy life of a little bee. Colorado Springs, Colorado Community in Colorado Springs, 406 Karr Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80916 This is much like the life that we % (791) 573-1907 have. No matter what we do, we love Community in Brunswick, 815 Albany Street, Brunswick, GA 31520 to do it together. Daily we gather % (912) 267-4700 to thank our Master for His salva- Community In Chattanooga, 316 N. Seminole, Chattanooga, TN 37411 tion, and to hear Him speak to us % (423) 698-6591 through one another. This gathering Jog Run Farm, 6311 Wallis Road, W. Palm Beach, FL 33413 keeps alive a genuine love and care % (561) 686-7561 for each other. As we work, we take Canada (888-893-5838) advantage of the daily situations, Community in Winnipeg, guarding ourselves from the selfi sh- 89 East Gate, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 2C2, Canada ness and pride that would come in % (204) 786-8787 to separate us and take away our Community in Nelson, love. Our children are a vital part of Devon, England 202 Vernon Street, Nelson, British Columbia V1L 4E2, Canada our life. We not only educate them, % (250) 352-0325 but we work with them to accom- Germany plish the simple tasks necessary to Gemeinschaft in Klosterzimmern, maintain a family life. Our life is not Klosterzimmern 1, 86738 Deiningen, Germany a dull routine of chores, but is full % (49) 9081-272847 of the warmth that comes from the England (0800-0743267) sweet fellowship of friends speak- Stentwood Farm, Dunkeswell, Honiton, Devon EX14 4RW, England ing their hearts to one another, % (44) 1823-681155 celebrating the Sabbath every week, Spain and participating in weddings and Sus, France festivals. Comunidad de San Sebastián, But there are a few things that Paseo de Ulia 375, 20014 San Sebastián, Spain % (34) 943-58-00-29 differ in our life than that of a bee- hive. One is that we are not driven France Communauté de Sus, by instinct or controlled by some- 64190 Sus/Navarrenx, France thing separate from our own will. % (33) 5-59-66-14-28 Each of us is here because we chose to leave behind our own separate Argentina lives to increase the life of this hive. Comunidad de Buenos Aires, Batallón Norte y Mansilla, Our life is not enclosed like the hive 1748 General Rodriguez, Argentina % (54) 237- 484-3409 of a bee, nor do we have a stinger to harm any uninvited guests. We Picton, Australia Brazil Comunidade de Londrina, Rua Jayme Americano 420, welcome anyone to experience our Jardim California, 86040-030 Londrina, Paraná, Brazil life with us. Please come and see For a complete list of our % (55) 43-336-5857 what it is like to be part of a beehive community addresses, please call: of people expressing the warmth Australia 888-893-5838 Peppercorn Creek Farm, and love of our Creator. p or visit our web site at: 1375 Old Hume Highway, Picton, NSW 2571, Australia www.commonwealthofi srael.org % (61) 2- 4677-2668