The Legacy Collection
© 2000, 2002, 2004, 2016 Dennis Fischer ®
All rights reserved
Volume IX
"It Came Without Warning - Part 2"
By
Dennis Fischer
Summary: By Blow the Trumpet
The words contained in this volume reflect a transcript of part II of a message first presented on the Feast of Trumpets 2001, one week after the attack on America. This particular message was given in a two-part presentation by Dennis Fischer on consecutive Sabbaths in 2003 and was prompted by a prophecy seminar hosted by prominent COG. One presenter in this day long event was hugely dismissive of some groups “obsession” with preaching an Ezekiel warning referring to it as “prediction addiction.” He contended that the Church only risked drawing attention to itself by normative Christian denominations and thus being labeled as fanatics. He then argued that the work should direct its message on more user-friendly topics such as human relationships and quality of life issues. Thus, the Church could be seen as more “mainstream.” When Fischer listened he became visibly agitated. He later described the seminar as “one with great potential that was wasted when placed in the hands of weakness.” He still bristles when he speaks of it. A few months after the seminar Fischer decided to craft a counter argument. To his dismay he would discover that a significant number of COG leaders actually agreed with the seminar position on this issue. Despite this fact he fashioned a rebuttal that he described as “what I would have said if given an opportunity to speak at that seminar.” Although once again critical of his own presentation style Fischer stuck to his argument saying, “I never believed anything I have ever said in my life more.” Those who heard it described it as “compelling and very persuasive.” We at Blow the Trumpet couldn’t agree more and are honored to include it as the ninth installment of our Legacy collection. Brethren, shortly after the terrorist attack on September 11th numerous tributes were offered to honor those who suffered as a result of this horrible tragedy. These tributes took a variety of forms. Some were musical compositions. Others were video presentations and some were books and articles. Recently, I heard a very moving tribute set to a song by the country singer Garth Brooks. I’d like you to listen to it. Brethren, what if you could change things? What if you could make a difference even in a small way? Brethren, would the lighting of one candle in a world filled with darkness really make any difference whatsoever? And would you be willing to light that candle? Brethren, would you strike that match if you knew that in the short run you would be mocked for such a pitiful gesture? What if you knew about the plan to destroy the World Trade Center and the Pentagon the evening before it took place. Would you try to change things? In other words, if you knew about a great calamity to come would you try to do something about it? Brethren, one of the great stories that came out of the horrible events of September 11th involved the passengers of United Airlines flight 93. When these courageous men and women realized the gravity of what taking place on that day they decided to try to retake their hijacked aircraft. They tried to change things. To many what they did may have seemed futile but to them it was the greatest of causes. They were freedom fighters in every sense of the word. They were patriots and this was Valley Forge, Bunker Hill, Normandy. Their fight was a gallant one filled with courage and today it is a source of great inspiration to so many Americans. We all know what happened on that flight. Their plane would ultimately crash in a forest in Pennsylvania. And the crash was so intense that the plane actually plunged fifty feet into the earth and disintegrated. The passengers aboard this flight willingly gave their last precious moments in order to prevent further devastation. We will never know for sure where that plane was headed, but one thing is for certain, the hijackers plans concerning U A flight 93 were thwarted and in a very real sense people like Todd Beamer and Jeremy Glick changed things. There are people alive today because of their sacrifice. Brethren, if you had a chance to change things, would you? Earlier, I indicated that when Jesus gave the Olivet Prophecy He identified two defining events that must take place in the last days. The first was the Abomination of Desolation spoken of by Daniel the prophet and reaffirmed by Jesus Christ. What I’d like to do now is examine the second event which in a very real sense is an attempt by a holy people to change things. When describing the time of the end, Jesus declared that a work would be done that was so important that without it the end would not come. Notice what Jesus said: Matthew 24:14 And this gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. Brethren, the gospel of the kingdom is something that links all the champions of the faith, from the Old Testament prophets to his end-time servants. It represents one of the great commissions Jesus Christ gave to His Church, and make no mistake about it, Jesus practiced what he preached. Two thousand years ago, when Jesus walked the countryside of Palestine, He preached a powerful message. It was a message about a kingdom – a kingdom that was going to come to this earth and a kingdom of which He would preside over as its Sovereign. Everything in His life was dedicated to advancing the cause of that kingdom; His birth, His teaching, His miracles, His parables, His life (both public and private) were all dedicated to advancing the cause of a kingdom He knew was going to come to this earth, and He knew He was going to bring it. He began His ministry proclaiming that message. The gospel of Mark indicates that when John the Baptist was cast into prison, Jesus came into Galilee preaching the gospel of the kingdom and exhorting those who would hear to “repent.” Mark 1:14-15 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom of God... And saying, The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye and believe the gospel. Brethren, notice what Jesus did not preach. He did not preach a prosperity gospel, a health-and-wealth gospel, a you-deserve-to-get-rich gospel, or a you-deserve-it-now gospel. He did not preach gospel music or a trucker’s gospel or a biker’s gospel or a butcher’s, baker’s or candlestick maker’s gospel for that matter. Jesus spoke of a real kingdom. He described its laws, its citizens, its territory, and its leaders. Today, the overwhelming majority of “Christian evangelists” have made a “freak show” out of the gospel. They prance around on the stages of great auditoriums. They sob openly in their messages. Their services are a perfectly choreographed theatrical presentation. Many beckon their audience to “come and experience God’s healing power.” Some shout, and their audience shout back. Others speak in “tongues” and almost all will claim, “We’ve got the devil on the run!” The truth is that God Almighty does not hear their words, but He does smell them, and their work is a stench. These self-proclaimed servants of God are those who the scriptures say went forth but were not sent. The prophet Jeremiah called them “brutish” (Jer. 10:21), and their contribution to the cause of the kingdom is nil. God’s word speaks prolifically about false ministers throughout the New Testament and warns every believer to beware of those who would subvert the truth. The apostle Paul repeatedly warned God’s Church to beware of those preaching another Jesus (2 Corinthians 11:4). He actually pronounced to the churches in Galatia a curse on anyone who would preach another gospel (Galatians 1:8-9). Peter not only dealt with men who were willing to pay for the power of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 8:19-22), but warned in an epistle that “there shall be false teachers... who bring in damnable heresies” (2 Peter 2:1). The apostle John warned Christians to “try the spirits whether they are of God... because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). See also Jude 3-4). A Serious Message Brethren, when Jesus’ apostles went forth to preach the gospel, it was not a circus atmosphere. Their approach was not to put on a big show. These founding fathers of the New Testament Church gave their lives to proclaim a truth that was anything but frivolous. They were serious men living in serious times, proclaiming a serious message. That message was a warning that God’s law is real and there are real consequences for breaking it. The gospel of the kingdom is an announcement that the government of God is going to be established on this earth under the direct supervision of Jesus Christ (Rev. 11:15) and His saints (Dan. 7:18, 21). It is a declaration that Jesus Christ will return to this world in great power and subdue the nations. At that time, the “Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6) will come as the commander of a great army (Rev. 19:11-21). But before He returns, a warning message will be proclaimed. The Gospel as a Witness Brethren, when Jesus spoke of the last days, He stated that the gospel would be preached as a “witness” (Mt. 24:14). The word “witness” in Matthew 24:14 is very interesting and reveals a profound truth concerning God’s end-time Church. This term comes from the Greek word marturion. It is a term that pertains to a judicial proceeding. Marturion is testimony based on evidence; in this case, the Decalogue or Ten Commandments. When Jesus uttered this word He was using it in a prosecutorial context. Here God’s law is held up as the standard, and mankind is indicted for its defiance. The scriptures make it absolutely clear that God’s end-time Church is the instrument He uses to show His people their sins and exhort them to repent. When speaking through the prophet Isaiah, God commissions His servants to powerfully proclaim this witness. Notice what God says. Isaiah 58:1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Brethren, Isaiah was not the only one God uses to exhort His servants to proclaim a warning message. The second chapter of the book of Joel describes the very last days of man’s reign on the earth. At that time an invincible army will rout the armies of this world and seize control of the planet. However, before this takes place, God directs His servants to proclaim a warning. Joel 2:1 Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand... A Warning to His Watchmen Brethren, so important is the proclaiming of the gospel as a witness that God specifically stated He would hold His servants personally responsible if they failed in this charge. Using the prophet Ezekiel, God warned that although destruction will come upon those who refuse to heed His word, a warning message would be delivered. If His servants failed to issue that warning, the blood of those destroyed would be on their hands. Notice what God says. Ezekiel 33:1-5 Again the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman: If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blows the trumpet, and warn the people; Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head. He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul. BUT WHAT IF THE WATCHMAN DOESN’T WARN? Ezekiel 33:6-9 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman’s hand. So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me. When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. Brethren, here God uses the strongest of words when instructing His servants regarding their responsibility to preach the gospel as a WITNESS. In short, God is saying “IT IS YOUR DUTY! And you will be judged according to how you carry that duty out.” Brethren, some have suggested that the words of Ezekiel pertain to the nation of Israel in the Old Testament and do not represent an end-time prophecy. But this could not possibly be true. Ezekiel’s warning was written over one hundred years after Israel had been routed by Assyria and led away captive. This being the case, there is only one possibility concerning Ezekiel’s writing—it was a warning of a future captivity. One that will come upon prophetic Israel in the last days. And God’s instructions are to His “watchmen” living at that time. Brethren, there are some who believe that the commission to preach the gospel as a witness is finished and that God’s servants must now prepare the Church for the return of Jesus Christ. To be sure, God’s Church must make herself ready (Rev. 19:7-8). But how does she do this? The Bible strongly suggests that preaching the gospel is one of the ways the Church (bride) prepares for her role in God’s kingdom. In a very real sense, it is part of the training she must go through in preparation for positions of great leadership she will assume when Jesus Christ establishes God’s government on earth. Preparing the Bride Brethren, the scriptures reveal that the saints will serve as kings and priests in God’s millennial kingdom (Rev. 5:10). In that role they will be responsible for teaching God’s law and His plan to a world that does not know Him. In a very real sense that is exactly what the preaching of the gospel is. It is declaring the great hope of God’s kingdom to a world held captive by ignorance. The true gospel points to a great destiny God has for man and how that destiny will be accomplished. It is hard to imagine that any true believer would think such a message would be extinguished. Despite this fact, a great number of Bible believing Christians are convinced that the commission to preach the gospel is over. Many hold to this belief based on one or both of two misunderstandings of scripture. The first is that the Bible speaks of a “famine of the word” (Amos 8:11). In other words, the preaching of God’s truth will cease. The second belief is that only an apostle has the authority to preach the gospel and absent such a man the preaching must stop. Let us examine both of these points. A FAMINE OF THE WORD When speaking through the prophet Amos, God declared that the time would come when He would bring a special famine upon the land. Notice what Amos writes: Amos 8:11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord. Brethren, why would God do such a thing? Why would He withhold His word at the end time? And does this mean that an Ezekiel warning will cease to be proclaimed at some time? These are very important questions and God’s word answers every one them. Let’s begin by putting Amos 8:11 in context. In Amos chapter eight God is leveling an indictment against Israel for their rebellion against Him. He declares that their evil works have not gone unseen and that there will be a reckoning. This punishment will take place when the descendants of Joseph go into a horrible captivity. When this tribulation comes, God’s Church will be in a special place He designates. In this place of safety they will be protected from the great dragon and his agents. At that time prophetic Israel will be deprived of any access to the great truth preached by God’s servants. To better grasp this point, it is necessary to understand the two-fold commission Jesus gave to His Church through His disciples. The first commission was to preach the gospel as a witness (Mt. 24:14). The second commission was to “feed” God’s sheep (Jn. 21:15-17). This food is provided through sermons and Bible studies given by God’s ministers on His Sabbath and Holy Days. It is also provided via literature designed to edify the body (Church). Many people who are not a part of the body benefit from this instruction. Thousands have attended church services although they were never converted. Millions have read booklets and magazines published by God’s true servants. The time is coming however, when the last message will be preached and the last booklet produced. At that time, the world will no longer have access to this nourishment—thus a famine. This famine, however, does not include the termination of an Ezekiel warning (the first commission), and the scriptures bear this out. The eleventh chapter of Revelation describes two witnesses who will testify against the earth during the time of “Jacob’s trouble” (Rev. 11:3-6). This alone proves that an Ezekiel warning will continue after God’s Church is taken to a place of safety. But there is more. A Warning Never Ceases The history of God’s work from the very beginning emphatically declares that a warning message never ceases until God executes His judgment. Consider some of the great defining moments in history and the role of a warning witness in each. But there is more. IT DOESN’T END THERE. The book of Revelation indicates that even after His two witnesses are murdered (Rev. 11:3-7), God takes steps to ensure that an Ezekiel warning does not cease. He will accomplish this by engaging supernatural forces to continue this witness. Notice what the apostle John records when describing this event. Revelation14:6-7 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. Brethren, notice this angelic being is still appealing to mankind to turn from his way and to honor the Great Creator of the universe. Once again an Ezekiel warning continues. Jesus Leaves a Work Brethren, Jesus was well aware of the great work that lay ahead of His servants and spoke of it often. In one particular example He gives an important lesson concerning the end time and the great commission to preach the gospel. This lesson which was given in the form of a “kingdom parable” was spoken just weeks before His arrest, trial, and crucifixion. It is called the parable of The Laborers in the Field and it reveals the importance of God’s work at the very end. In this lesson Jesus tells of a householder that searches out laborers to work in his vineyard and begins contracting them early in the day (Mt. 20:1). However, because of the size of the project it was necessary for him to seek out additional laborers (verses 3-5). The householder did this several times throughout the day (the third hour, sixth hour, and ninth hour). Even at the very end of the day (the eleventh hour), the householder is actively recruiting laborers for the harvest (verse 11). Once again, Jesus reveals a great need for a work to be done at the very end of the age. He then explains that the value of the laborers hired at the end was every bit as great as those hired at the beginning and their compensation reflected that truth (verses 8-16). A Lesson from the Apostles Brethren, those who believe that the commission to preach the gospel as a witness is finished should consider the lives of Jesus’ apostles. These champions of the faith comprise what are arguably the founding fathers of the New Testament Church. They dedicated their lives to proclaiming the great truth they were given by the Messiah. The scriptures reveal that an incredible destiny awaits these men because of their steadfast dedication to God’s kingdom. Jesus indicated they would sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Lk. 22:29-30). The book of Revelation states that their names will be on the twelve foundations of the New Jerusalem (Rev. 21:14). Suffice it to say these men will hold positions of great responsibility and trust in God’s Kingdom. But what does this have to do with preaching the gospel in the last days? The answer: PLENTY! The apostles knew Jesus personally. They walked with Him. They ate with Him. They traveled with Him. They were taught directly by Him. They knew His message and they knew Him in ways that no others could. They understood Jesus perfectly when He commissioned them to go into all the world and proclaim God’s truth (Mt. 28:19-20). Additionally, the apostles truly believed they were living in the last days. They believed Jesus would return in their generation. Driven by this understanding, these men gave their lives preaching the gospel of the kingdom. They were men on a mission and throughout their lives there isn’t a hint that at some point they planned to stop preaching the gospel. The book of Acts actually describes an event in which Peter and John are ordered by the religious leaders of their day to cease and desist preaching this message. Notice their answer. Acts 4:19-20 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to harken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. (Acts 4:19-20) Brethren, Peter and John as well as all of the apostles were steadfast in proclaiming God’s word and no power on earth was going to stop them. With this in mind, if the apostles were alive today, what would they be doing? Simply waiting for Jesus to return? Not Hardly! Perhaps engaging in some self-improvement program so that they would be better executives in the kingdom? Once again, probably not. Or would they be doing the work Jesus left them to do? Would they be preaching the gospel to all the world as a witness? The work Jesus left His apostles would punctuate every minute of their lives. These men would eat, drink, and sleep the gospel of the kingdom. To think otherwise goes contrary to all the properties of reason. These men gave their lives in God’s service THEN and they would do no differently TODAY. CAN ONLY AN APOSTLE PREACH THE GOSPEL? Brethren, there are some who believe that only an apostle can preach the gospel – that the commission to proclaim an Ezekiel warning was only given to those who sit as the leader of His Church. This is simply not true. Some of the greatest champions in the Bible proclaimed a powerful gospel and were not apostles. Consider just a few examples. Stephen stands as the first recorded martyr of the New Testament. This great servant of God was one of the most eloquent speakers in the history of God’s Church. The scriptures describe him as “full of faith and power” (Acts 6:8). Stephen preached one of the most powerful messages ever recorded in scripture, and he paid for that message with his own blood (Acts 7). His bold words rang out as an indictment against the religious leaders of his day and he preached the gospel in a way that has all but disappeared in God’s Church. This hero of the faith was not an apostle. But that did not stop him from declaring the good news of God’s soon coming kingdom. Brethren, Philip was also a champion of the faith and an important instrument in preaching a message about the kingdom of God. The book of Acts chronicles a period when God’s Church was suffering great persecution (Acts 8:1). At that time Philip went to Samaria and proclaimed the gospel. While he was there God gave him the power to cast out demons and heal the lame (Acts 8:7). His work was so compelling that “the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spoke” (Acts 8:6). Philip’s zeal for the gospel stands as an example to all of God’s end-time servants. Philip was not an apostle. However, that did not deter him from the great work God had given him. Brethren, those who believe that only an apostle can preach the gospel should consider the first four books of the New Testament. Two were written by men who held no such position. Yet the words recorded by Mark and Luke speak with great force of a King and the kingdom that He will establish on this earth. The idea that only an apostle can preach the gospel is found nowhere in the scriptures. Further, this belief violates every tenant of reason. It makes about as much sense as seeing a building on fire and refusing to scream “fire!” because you’re not a fireman. Israel and the Gospel Brethren, the scriptures actually reveal that God doesn’t even need a man to proclaim this message. In the Old Testament He used the nation of Israel to proclaim a great truth about His kingdom. Notice what Moses declares to the children of Israel in preparation to entering the promised land. Deuteronomy 4:5-8 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who has God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? Brethren, here God declared that Israel was to stand as an example to all the world of what it is truly like to be one nation under God. In a very real sense, God raised up Israel to preach the gospel. But it doesn’t end there. The Heavens Declare the Gospel Brethren, the heavens declare the gospel. When writing to the Church at Rome, the apostle Paul made an interesting observation regarding the physical realm. Paul wrote that the universe stood as incontrovertible proof that God is real. It also stands as an indicting witness against those who refuse to believe in a creator. Notice what Paul wrote. Romans1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse... Brethren, the Bible also indicates that the heavens play an important role in revealing who God is. King David of Israel, who authored many of the psalms, wrote “The heavens declare the glory of God” (Psa.19:1), and to be sure, they do. The heavens speak prolifically of God’s mercy (Psa. 36), His righteousness (Psa. 50:6), His redemption (Isa. 44:22-23), and even His eternal nature (Psa. 104). Mankind may have difficulty declaring God’s greatness, but the heavens do it with joy. From the very beginning, the great God had a purpose in creating the sun, moon, and stars. That purpose was more than simply to beautify the sky. The scriptures reveal that God fashioned the heavens as an instrument in declaring His plan of salvation. Brethren, the first chapter of the book of Genesis describes the creation of the heavenly bodies and reveals something extraordinary about God as a planner. Notice what it says. Genesis 1:14 And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years... Here God declares that the astronomical bodies (the sun, moon, and stars) are for “signs” and “seasons.” Brethren these two words have profound meaning and reveal an extraordinary point regarding God’s commitment to preaching the gospel. The Hebrew word for “sign” in this verse is owth. This word can be translated as “a signal,” “beacon,” “evidence,” or “a mark.” It is the same word God used when describing His Sabbaths. Notice what God says: Exodus 31:13,17 Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you... [then in verse 17] It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. Brethren, God created the Sabbath as a link between Himself and man. The Sabbath is a “sign” God gave that would enable man to know his Creator. God created the heavens as a clock in which the Sabbath could be determined. But there is more. The Hebrew word for “seasons” in Genesis 1:14 is moed. This word means “appointed times.” God’s appointed times are His Holy Days. God’s Holy Days reveal a great plan of salvation for all mankind. God knew that plan from the very beginning. He created the heavens as an instrument to point man toward Him. The heavens declare not only God’s strength, but also His great wisdom and love. This exquisite part of the creation reveals that the great Creator is mindful of His children and will ultimately lead them to Himself. The heavens truly do preach the gospel. Brethren, the Bible states with absolute clarity that God’s servants will proclaim an Ezekiel warning during the last days and that a gospel will be preached as a witness until the return of Jesus Christ. That gospel is an appeal by God Almighty to a world held captive by sin. Through it God implores man to turn from evil and obey his Creator. But why does God want this message preached? Why a warning? And why at a time when mankind will have fixed his will in defiance to Him? In other words, why would God want an Ezekiel warning preached when, by all indications, no one will heed it? The Bible answers these questions, and in doing so, reveals something extraordinary about our Creator and His attitude regarding the last days. In truth, God’s word is very specific concerning why it is so important to Him that an Ezekiel warning is preached at the very end. This reason is revealed in the words of two prophets. A Lesson from Two Prophets The first of these prophets is Jonah. The story of Jonah is famous in the scriptures. It has been told countless times to millions of children. But the book of Jonah is more than a child’s tale. It stands as a great declaration of God’s power and His virtue. Jonah was a prophet of Israel who was commissioned by God to go to the great city of Nineveh and preach a warning. That warning called for the people of Nineveh to turn from evil or suffer the consequences. God indicated that this gentile people had 40 days to repent or He would bring destruction upon them (Jonah 3:4). At this point it is important to understand something about this city. Nineveh was the capital of Assyria, the mortal enemy of Israel. It’s hard to imagine that Jonah could have wanted to do anything less than warn them about their impending destruction. But this is exactly what God directed him to do. According to the scriptures, once Jonah received God’s word regarding Nineveh, he tried to run away in an attempt to avoid proclaiming this warning (Jonah 1:2). However, God intervened (Jonah. 1:4-2:10), and Jonah reluctantly went and spoke God’s words. As a result of this warning, Nineveh repented, and by order of the king, all its citizens fasted and appealed to God for His forgiveness (Jonah 3:5-9). God was so moved by this change of heart that He withheld His judgment: Nineveh was spared. Regrettably, this act of mercy infuriated Jonah. The scriptures reveal that he voiced his complaint directly to God. Essentially what Jonah said was that he knew God would exercise His mercy on this pagan city and that is why he never wanted to go there in the first place. Jonah wanted Nineveh destroyed, not spared. And he was not shy in expressing his frustration at the way God handled the situation. Notice the words Jonah used when advancing his complaint. Jonah 4:1-2 But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. And he prayed unto the Lord, and said, I pray thee, O Lord, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that you are a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repent you of the evil. Brethren, with the words “it repents you of the evil,” Jonah was saying that he knew God did not want to bring calamity upon the citizens of Nineveh, even though they were a people who worshiped false gods. But what does this event, which took place over twenty-five hundred years ago have to do with the preaching of an end-time gospel—in the end time no less? The answer: PLENTY! And this answer is revealed in the words of a second prophet. The prophet Joel wrote of a time that takes place at the very end of man’s reign on earth. It is a time that will see a great army led by Jesus Christ when He returns. At that time He will subdue all the nations. This army and the battle that ensues is described in the second chapter of Joel’s prophecy. Joel introduces this chapter with God’s instruction to “blow the horn in Zion and sound the alarm in my holy mountain” (Joel 2:1). This is clearly speaking of an Ezekiel warning. But there is more. When describing this event which again will take place at the very end of man’s reign on this earth, God explains why a warning must be proclaimed. He does so by first appealing to mankind to repent and turn to Him. However, God then reveals a profound truth about His attitude concerning the great destruction that will take place. Notice what He says. Joel 2:13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repents him of the evil. Here God uses the same words used by Jonah when Jonah criticized Him for sparing Nineveh. However, this time God uses them when describing the great devastation that is going to come upon the earth in the last days. God said it “repents Him of the evil.” In other words, it is God’s desire to not bring calamity upon mankind. This attitude of compassion is what truly defines who God is. God is a God of strength, but His greatest power is revealed in His mercy. This is a point that so few understand. When speaking to the religious leaders of His day, Jesus said “Go and learn the meaning of the words I will have mercy and not sacrifice” (Mt. 9:13). The point Jesus was making was that mercy is an essential part of God’s character, and He desires greatly to demonstrate that quality. Brethren, the importance of mercy and compassion cannot be overstated. Jesus characterized mercy as one the “weightier matters of the law” (Mt. 23:23) and indicated that without this quality man would never enter into God’s kingdom (Mark 11:26). God’s desire is that man repent in order to experience the great blessings He has in store for him. Additionally, it is God’s desire that all mankind would come to that repentance. Notice the words of the apostle Peter. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9) Brethren, those who believe the commission to preach the gospel as a warning in the last days is finished do not fully understand what that gospel is. An Ezekiel warning not only announces the great depravity of man, but also the great compassion of God. Those who proclaim this message do so because God wants man to know that He is a forgiving Father who cares greatly for those whom He has made in His own image. God wants man to turn from sin, and because of this He will continue to make that appeal until the very end. In a very real sense, those who refuse to preach an Ezekiel warning are not unlike Jonah. Their actions deprive God of an opportunity to proclaim His love to His children. And just as He intervened with Jonah, God will intervene again, if necessary, to ensure a warning goes forth. Whether it is through a man, a Church, a nation, the heavens, or an angelic being, the great gospel of His kingdom will be proclaimed as a witness “and then shall the end come” (Matthew 24:14). Brethren, when Jesus gave the Olivet Prophecy, His words possessed great strength and precision. He was not simply analyzing the geopolitical landscape of the Roman world and offering a theory on how things might turn out. Jesus was not speculating about the future. He was not guessing about what the last days would be like. Jesus was speaking history in advance, and His message had pinpoint accuracy. To illustrate this point, consider the first words He spoke regarding the future of the temple. Matthew 24:2 “...There shall not be left here one stone upon another that shall not be thrown down.” With these words Jesus was predicting the total and absolute destruction of the most important structure in all of Judaism. Additionally, He made this announcement at a time when there wasn’t a shred of evidence that such a catastrophic event would take place. But take place it did. In 70 AD (forty years after Jesus’ prediction), Titus and his Roman army arrived at the walls of Jerusalem on the day of the Passover. Upon their arrival, Roman soldiers fortified their position and built battering rams to be used against the great city. At this point, the siege on Jerusalem began. The Roman army numbered 30,000, while the Jews who opposed it numbered approximately 24,000. According to the Roman historian Tacitus, Jerusalem was crowded with 600,000 visitors. After five months, the walls of the city were battered down. Additionally, the temple was gutted and burned. When writing about this event, the Jewish historian Josephus stated that the destruction of Jerusalem was so complete it looked like a city that had NEVER BEEN INHABITED. How could Jesus have known this was going to happen? How could He be so certain that the Temple would be destroyed so completely? The answer to this question lies in who Jesus was. Brethren, the scriptures declare that Jesus was not only the Savior of the world who lived as a man two thousand years ago but was also the very God of the Old Testament – the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He was the One who spoke to Moses, inspired the prophets, and created the universe. When speaking to the great religious leaders of His day, Jesus said, “...before Abraham was, I Am” (Jn. 8:58). Here He was identifying himself the same way He did to Moses before sending him to Egypt to lead the Israelites out of bondage (Ex. 3:13-14). The gospel of John identified Jesus as the Word of God manifest in the flesh (Jn. 1:1-5). That Word has eternally existed and works in partnership with God the Father in governing the universe. Brethren, as the God of the Old Testament, Jesus made an extraordinary statement that identified Him as unique from all other beings. This uniqueness is reflected in His power to make pronouncements concerning the future. Notice what He says through the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 46:9-10 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure... This is not the only time God declares that His word cannot fail. Notice what He says later in Isaiah’s prophecy. Isaiah 55:11 “So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” Brethren, with this in mind, consider just some of the prophecies Jesus spoke either directly or through His servants concerning the end time: Brethren, these are just a few of hundreds of events that are going to begin to happen in the next few years. God’s end-time servants are very much aware of these events and it is their calling to proclaim them with power and force. Brethren, the Great God of Heaven has given those whom He has called a glimpse into the most magnificent kingdom in the universe – a kingdom governed by mercy, judgment and faith (Mt. 23:23). It is a kingdom that will produce great peace, great prosperity, great health, and great hope. God gave this vision because He wants His servants to proclaim the good news of that kingdom. It is why He raised up a work. It is why He inspired and preserved the scriptures. It is why He reveals His plan to His servants. Notice the promise God makes regarding the end time and His servants. Amos 3:7 Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he reveals his secret unto his servants the prophets. Something to Think About Why would God reveal His plan if it were to be kept a secret? The plain truth is: He wouldn’t. God is not playing games with mankind. The return of Jesus Christ and the events surrounding that return are not some magician’s illusion. His return is very real and so is His warning. That warning shall go forth because God said it would. The great God who created the heavens and the earth has raised up an end-time work to accomplish His purpose. That purpose includes the preaching of the gospel as a witness. To this end He directed His servants to “Cry aloud and spare not...” (Isa. 58:1), and He expects them to do just that (Ezekiel 33:1-9). If God’s servants don’t proclaim the priceless truth reflected in the gospel, then THEY ARE NOT WORTHY OF THAT TRUTH! If His servants don’t proclaim the great hope of God’s kingdom, then THEY ARE NOT WORTHY OF THAT KINGDOM.! Brethren, when speaking about the fight against the former Soviet Union and communism, President Ronald Reagan once said, “If not us, who? And If not now, when?” These words are just as applicable to God’s end-time Church and the proclaiming of the gospel. If not us, who? And If not now, when? Those who think God’s servants can somehow keep silent and not proclaim a warning should think again. God believes in warnings. His end-time work is proof of that fact. And those who say the commission to preach the gospel is finished should carefully consider the words of Jesus Christ. Matthew 24:46 Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he comes shall find so doing. (Mt. 24:46) It Is Finished Brethren, Jesus Christ believed fervently in completing the work He was given during His life on earth. At the end of that life He uttered the words, “It is finished” (Jn. 19:20). And with these words He was proclaiming that the work He was given by the Father was accomplished. This is a fact He acknowledged just hours before. It was after His last Passover. At that time Jesus and His disciples went to the garden of Gethsemanae where Jesus poured out His heart in prayer to His Father. At the very beginning of that prayer Jesus said, “I have finished the work which you gave me to do” (Jn. 17:4). He was able to say this because he respected so much the work He was given. Brethren, early in His ministry Jesus uttered a profound truth about God’s work and why it was so important. Notice His extraordinary words. John 5:36 ... for the works which the Father has given Me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me. Brethren, it is no different with God’s end-time Church. They have a work that bears witness of them—and they must be about their Father’s business. A Final Thought Do you remember that beautiful summer morning in New York city? Brethren, what can be learned from the tragic events that rocked the most powerful nation on earth? In one moment, there was peace and in the next, destruction. At the very least, America learned that despite its tremendous military strength it is vulnerable. But is there another lesson? Is it possible that September 11 was a wake-up call to God’s people - those whom He has instructed to watch and to warn? God’s true Church knows what lies ahead for the descendants of Joseph. They know the meaning of the words “Jacob’s trouble.” They know that as powerful as the great nations on earth are, if they don’t repent, they will go into a horrible captivity and ultimately suffer God’s judgment. This is the warning Jesus commanded His servants to preach. It is a warning to a depraved world to turn from sin and submit to Him. This gospel of the kingdom is proclaimed as a witness because God is a great and merciful Father who wants with all His heart to forgive and to heal. And whether the nations of the earth listen or not, that gospel must be proclaimed. The apostle Paul recognized this early in his ministry. At that time, he was in Antioch during his first missionary journey. It was there that he gave a powerful message and concluded it with words from the prophet Habakkuk. These words are as appropriate today as they were when they were first uttered. Acts 13:40-41 Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you. (NIV) Brethren, God’s end-time Church is that “someone,” and if the world doesn’t believe, so be it. Even if some in God’s Church don’t believe, so be it. One thing is absolutely certain: they will never, ever, ever be able to say... IT CAME WITHOUT WARNING
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