There are a million reasons for keeping out illegals from coming into America. First of all, no nation in the world has such a porous and open border. "Come one and come all!" Second, there is no doubt that the open border opens the way for criminals. But the biggest problem I have is that it is just plain stupid!
When the settlers came to these shores they did not take away land from the Indians. The land was open to everyone. Though it is true, from the Bible we learn that the holding of property is a blessing. And in time, the settlers planted towns and harvested acreage.
The Indians did not have "land" in the sense of a country. The Christian Puritans were not perfect but most of the information we get about those who came here is just plain built upon lies. The Indians started the persecution and we cannot really find out why. At one of the Thanksgiving meals, after the Indians have eaten their fill, they just suddenly turned on their hosts for no apparent reason. The Indians were extremely cruel to their own kind as well. They tortured and killed almost for fun.
But my question to modern illegals is: WHY DON'T THEY STAY IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY AND BUILD IT UP FOR THEIR CHILDREN, as our Founding Fathers did here? The Europeans and Anglo-Saxons who came to these shores did not ask help from anyone. We must understand something: the work ethic of the Reformed Christian Anglo-Saxons is not the same as the Latins! If you don't believe that you do not understand history. You need a course or two in order to get your thinking straight. What I just wrote is not a prejudicial statement—it is fact! I know from whence I speak. I'm a history buff! —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Sunday, May 29, 2011
CRAIG PARSHALL WRITES ABOUT THE NEW BARBARIANS
They are not those who carry spears and knives but who use the pen and the tongue to destroy what is good. They wage war against biblical values. They take away freedoms and gradually and silently encroach on goodness. The strategy of the new barbarians is not a massive invasion but a persistent erosion; they manipulate by politicizing words, using loaded meanings rather than bullets.
Their targets are not walls and fortresses but rather, they are those who speak boldly and clearly on social, moral, and spiritual issues with a worldview forged in God's Scriptures. They attack God's eternal Word. And they detest the Son of God, therefore, they also hate the God of Creation.
To hate God the Father is to hate Christ, and to hate the Father is to hate the Son. Likewise, to love the Father is to love the Son, and to love Him is to love the heavenly Father. "The Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from the Father" (John 16:27). "He who hates Me hates My Father also" (15:23).
Those foundations of truth are the most formidable walls against radical, secular liberalism. The last and only real hope for civilization is always truth, and truth springs from the transcendent values of a God who has communicated His demands for righteousness, and proclaimed the sinful frailty of man, and His plan of redemption.
Those were the moral presuppositions that informed our Founding Fathers. Those were the timbers from which they hewed our constitution form of government.
Beware the new barbarians who would tear down the bulwarks of freedom and set fire to the foundations of our republic.
[Parshall then lists the areas where we are failing in the war!]
They have attacked talk radio. They come against the American Family Association, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas. The enemy headquarters in CNN and in Harvard Law School. They fought Robert Bork's confirmation to the Supreme Court in 1987. Bork quoted James Madison who said:
"I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachment of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations." The barbarians have come against those who promote traditional ideas. Conservatives and Bible believers are considered as official "hate" groups who must be silenced.
Finally, such barbarism is characterized of all that men have ever understood, by men who do not understand [anything at all]."
Their targets are not walls and fortresses but rather, they are those who speak boldly and clearly on social, moral, and spiritual issues with a worldview forged in God's Scriptures. They attack God's eternal Word. And they detest the Son of God, therefore, they also hate the God of Creation.
To hate God the Father is to hate Christ, and to hate the Father is to hate the Son. Likewise, to love the Father is to love the Son, and to love Him is to love the heavenly Father. "The Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from the Father" (John 16:27). "He who hates Me hates My Father also" (15:23).
Those foundations of truth are the most formidable walls against radical, secular liberalism. The last and only real hope for civilization is always truth, and truth springs from the transcendent values of a God who has communicated His demands for righteousness, and proclaimed the sinful frailty of man, and His plan of redemption.
Those were the moral presuppositions that informed our Founding Fathers. Those were the timbers from which they hewed our constitution form of government.
Beware the new barbarians who would tear down the bulwarks of freedom and set fire to the foundations of our republic.
[Parshall then lists the areas where we are failing in the war!]
They have attacked talk radio. They come against the American Family Association, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas. The enemy headquarters in CNN and in Harvard Law School. They fought Robert Bork's confirmation to the Supreme Court in 1987. Bork quoted James Madison who said:
"I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachment of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations." The barbarians have come against those who promote traditional ideas. Conservatives and Bible believers are considered as official "hate" groups who must be silenced.
Finally, such barbarism is characterized of all that men have ever understood, by men who do not understand [anything at all]."
Saturday, May 28, 2011
The Birth of the Nation of Israel
Every Christian needs to read this book by Dr. Couch to understand what God is doing in the Middle East. It is a thorough treatment of the founding of the Jewish State. While the Jews have gone back in unbelief, as prophesied, they are now beginning to turn to Christ as their Savior. The fulfillment of prophecy is coming to pass before our eyes. Don’t miss reading this important book! We are asking for a donation of $17, but for a few weeks, it is FREE for those who order it. Please send us your name and address for that copy. Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX. 76634.
Friday, May 27, 2011
MADNESS IN THE WHITE HOUSE
On May 18 President Barack Hussein Obama said in order to create two states in the Holy Land, the Promised Land, Israel needed to move back to the borders of 1967. This is gross stupidity! I was there just three years after the war and saw the wire fences and the walls that divided the city of Jerusalem into two pieces! The Six Day War was actually the Six Hour War. Within six hours the Israelis had defeated the Arab air forces, including driving the Jordanians back to their lines and out of Jerusalem.
To tell the Israelis to divide the city again, Israel taking half and the Jordanians taking the other half, shows a lack of knowledge, common sense, history, Bible history, and prophecy. It is a denial of the Word of God! But that's what we've got in Washington. This man has got to go, and there is some evidence that we may not get rid of him this next time around.
Please pray and be ready to vote, if for no other reason, than for the sake of Israel. An infant, a child, would know better than what he stated on May 18, a day of infamy! —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
To tell the Israelis to divide the city again, Israel taking half and the Jordanians taking the other half, shows a lack of knowledge, common sense, history, Bible history, and prophecy. It is a denial of the Word of God! But that's what we've got in Washington. This man has got to go, and there is some evidence that we may not get rid of him this next time around.
Please pray and be ready to vote, if for no other reason, than for the sake of Israel. An infant, a child, would know better than what he stated on May 18, a day of infamy! —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what did Christ mean when He said "For the sake of [the disciples] I sanctified Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth" (John 17:19).
ANSWER: "To sanctify" means "to make holy, special, unique." By presenting Himself as sanctified, He is making them sanctified "in truth." By making Himself special He is then sanctifying them in truth. One's witness about oneself in court is valid as a testimony. Christ is speaking for Himself in order to set Himself out as one who is to be heard.
All believers are tied together, believers of all generations. We are tied to those who came before us. This is what is said in the following verses. Christ had concern for those who came along after the disciples, "through their word." Someone told us what they had said, etc., etc. "that they all may be one; even as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they may be one, just as We are one" (vv. 20-21).
Thanks for asking,
-- Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: "To sanctify" means "to make holy, special, unique." By presenting Himself as sanctified, He is making them sanctified "in truth." By making Himself special He is then sanctifying them in truth. One's witness about oneself in court is valid as a testimony. Christ is speaking for Himself in order to set Himself out as one who is to be heard.
All believers are tied together, believers of all generations. We are tied to those who came before us. This is what is said in the following verses. Christ had concern for those who came along after the disciples, "through their word." Someone told us what they had said, etc., etc. "that they all may be one; even as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they may be one, just as We are one" (vv. 20-21).
Thanks for asking,
-- Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, is John 10:16 an early reference to the church?
ANSWER: The passage reads: "I have other sheep which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they shall hear My voice; and they shall become one flock with one shepherd."
This is very possibly a beginning reference to the church which consists of Jew and Gentile together in one body. See Ephesians 2:11-3:21. However, Christ could be talking about the Jews who were standing around Him at the time. In other words, the "other sheep" are Jews who were not there at that moment. I lean toward this for the following reason:
The "Good Shepherd" reference is about God and is found in Ezekiel 34:11-24. In this passage the Lord God is the Shepherd and Israel is the Flock (v. 12). Christ is therefore claiming to be the Good Shepherd of Ezekiel 34! There is no other "outside" flock in the passage that could be referring to Gentiles. And, king David will be the shepherd (God's servant) over them (vv. 23-24). Too, David will be the Prince among them, that is, among the Jews (v. 24). Read thoroughly the Ezekiel passage.
When we read the Word of God we must read carefully and slowly. Observe, observe, observe!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: The passage reads: "I have other sheep which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they shall hear My voice; and they shall become one flock with one shepherd."
This is very possibly a beginning reference to the church which consists of Jew and Gentile together in one body. See Ephesians 2:11-3:21. However, Christ could be talking about the Jews who were standing around Him at the time. In other words, the "other sheep" are Jews who were not there at that moment. I lean toward this for the following reason:
The "Good Shepherd" reference is about God and is found in Ezekiel 34:11-24. In this passage the Lord God is the Shepherd and Israel is the Flock (v. 12). Christ is therefore claiming to be the Good Shepherd of Ezekiel 34! There is no other "outside" flock in the passage that could be referring to Gentiles. And, king David will be the shepherd (God's servant) over them (vv. 23-24). Too, David will be the Prince among them, that is, among the Jews (v. 24). Read thoroughly the Ezekiel passage.
When we read the Word of God we must read carefully and slowly. Observe, observe, observe!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, is Hebrews 9:28 a rapture passage? It seems that it is. Seems the same here as He delivers us from the coming wrath.
ANSWER: Hebrews 9:28 reads: "So Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him."
Remember, context is important, and I'm convinced that the book of Hebrews is written mainly to the Jews who have not accepted Him as Savior; it is not written to the church but to the Jews. Note that the passage does not say "to us who await" but to "those who await." Also, the passage is about the two comings. Technically, the rapture is not a coming. We go up to Him; His feet do not touch the ground. We are caught up to Him in the clouds.
The verse is parallel to Luke 1 where it speaks of "two" salvations, one which is His death for sins and the other is a salvation from Israel's enemies, that is, it is the kingdom salvation, which kingdom He will reign and rule over.
First coming: "To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins" (Luke 1:77).
Second coming: "God has raised up for us (the Jews) a horn of salvation in the house of David His servant … [Kingdom] Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of those who hate us" (Luke 1:69-71).
This is why the passage was not used as a rapture passage. But too, we did not give all the rapture verses in the book Perhaps Today. That was not our purpose even if Hebrews 9:28 was a rapture passage, which it is not. It is a Kingdom [Second Coming] passage!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: Hebrews 9:28 reads: "So Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him."
Remember, context is important, and I'm convinced that the book of Hebrews is written mainly to the Jews who have not accepted Him as Savior; it is not written to the church but to the Jews. Note that the passage does not say "to us who await" but to "those who await." Also, the passage is about the two comings. Technically, the rapture is not a coming. We go up to Him; His feet do not touch the ground. We are caught up to Him in the clouds.
The verse is parallel to Luke 1 where it speaks of "two" salvations, one which is His death for sins and the other is a salvation from Israel's enemies, that is, it is the kingdom salvation, which kingdom He will reign and rule over.
First coming: "To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins" (Luke 1:77).
Second coming: "God has raised up for us (the Jews) a horn of salvation in the house of David His servant … [Kingdom] Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of those who hate us" (Luke 1:69-71).
This is why the passage was not used as a rapture passage. But too, we did not give all the rapture verses in the book Perhaps Today. That was not our purpose even if Hebrews 9:28 was a rapture passage, which it is not. It is a Kingdom [Second Coming] passage!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Monday, May 23, 2011
HONORING DR. JOHN F. WALVOORD
Dr. Walvoord was born over one hundred years ago, on May 1, 1910. Before he passed away in commissioned Dr. Mal Couch to write his official biography. This hard-back volume is a classic. He gives the background of his life and of his theological walk as author and president of Dallas Seminary. As one can imagine, Dr. Couch had an adventure interviewing him in producing the book before he left this world on December 20, 2002.
The book has gone well with a limited number still available. For those who want this classic work, send a donation of $12 to: Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX. 76634.
The book has gone well with a limited number still available. For those who want this classic work, send a donation of $12 to: Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX. 76634.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what is the Kaaba stone in Mecca?
ANSWER: The word Kaaba means "a cube." It is a huge black box that has been rebuilt ten times. According to Muslims it was handed down at the dawn of history by angels from heaven, to Adam, Seth, Abraham, and to Ishmael, Hagar's son. The "black box" is over a rectangular stone which is forty feet long by thirty-five feet wide, by fifty feet. This is a black stone of dark red material, oval in shape, which is kissed by the faithful.
Within the Kaaba, in pre-Muslim days, it contained several gods, one of which was called Allah, who was probably a tribal god, but also included three others who were the daughters of Allah: Uzza, al-Lar, and Manah. The historian Herodotus says al-Lar was a major Arabian deity. Allah was pushed forward and worshiped as a chief god.
No unbeliever shall ever put his foot in Mecca. In 629 Muslims from Medina came to Mecca and circled the Kaaba seven times shouting "There is no god but Allah alone!"
Thanks for asking,
-- Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: The word Kaaba means "a cube." It is a huge black box that has been rebuilt ten times. According to Muslims it was handed down at the dawn of history by angels from heaven, to Adam, Seth, Abraham, and to Ishmael, Hagar's son. The "black box" is over a rectangular stone which is forty feet long by thirty-five feet wide, by fifty feet. This is a black stone of dark red material, oval in shape, which is kissed by the faithful.
Within the Kaaba, in pre-Muslim days, it contained several gods, one of which was called Allah, who was probably a tribal god, but also included three others who were the daughters of Allah: Uzza, al-Lar, and Manah. The historian Herodotus says al-Lar was a major Arabian deity. Allah was pushed forward and worshiped as a chief god.
No unbeliever shall ever put his foot in Mecca. In 629 Muslims from Medina came to Mecca and circled the Kaaba seven times shouting "There is no god but Allah alone!"
Thanks for asking,
-- Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what is the size of the temple area as described in Ezekiel 45:1-6?
ANSWER: I'm rather bad with math figures but using the Jewish Soncino commentary on Ezekiel, and Dr. Merrill Unger's calculations, the temple area seems to be about 8 miles square. It is described by cubits which are still calculated at 18 inches a cubit, or 25,000 x 10,000 cubits. This is the "sacred area" for the temple plus the area for the priests, its personnel. A similar area designated, on the south, a rectangle, for [a large company of] the Levites is 25,000 x 5,000 cubits. Unger says this is for the city of Jerusalem itself. Unger writes: "The apportionment will be an 'oblation unto the Lord' (a lifting up), an offering in which the offerer raises his hand to present the gift [a sacrificial gift] to God."
All of this is for worship in the Kingdom! Unger concludes: "The Lord's temple and the priestly service are to be given top priority" in the Kingdom! And he says, "In the millennial day of the triumph of righteousness, it must be remembered that all blessing and salvation flow from the death of Christ, which makes the Kingdom age possible."
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: I'm rather bad with math figures but using the Jewish Soncino commentary on Ezekiel, and Dr. Merrill Unger's calculations, the temple area seems to be about 8 miles square. It is described by cubits which are still calculated at 18 inches a cubit, or 25,000 x 10,000 cubits. This is the "sacred area" for the temple plus the area for the priests, its personnel. A similar area designated, on the south, a rectangle, for [a large company of] the Levites is 25,000 x 5,000 cubits. Unger says this is for the city of Jerusalem itself. Unger writes: "The apportionment will be an 'oblation unto the Lord' (a lifting up), an offering in which the offerer raises his hand to present the gift [a sacrificial gift] to God."
All of this is for worship in the Kingdom! Unger concludes: "The Lord's temple and the priestly service are to be given top priority" in the Kingdom! And he says, "In the millennial day of the triumph of righteousness, it must be remembered that all blessing and salvation flow from the death of Christ, which makes the Kingdom age possible."
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Friday, May 20, 2011
America: Founded as a Christian Nation?
Is America a Christian Nation? I believe we can say "It was." Things have changed. Our people have departed from the Lord. You need this latest book as you face the time of voting in November. The book needs to be read before you go to the polls.This hardback 150 page book is yours for a donation of $17. Send a check with your name and address to Scofield Ministries: 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX 76634. Please feel free to pass it around, and give a copy to your pastor.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
ONLY IN CALIFORNIA
Supposedly, this happened just recently. Two Jewish women were talking to each other in Yiddish. Another woman walked up and yelled: "You're in America! Speak in Spanish!"
Sunday, May 15, 2011
IS SALVATION A GIFT OF GOD?
"For by grace you [all of you] are existing, having been saved, by means of faith, and this is not of yourselves, from God [comes] the gift!"
Many translate the passage simply as "By grace you have been saved." This is called a periphrastic construction where the "you are existing" goes silent. But I believe this is wrong. I believe the way I have translated the verse is the way it would have been quoted or read out loud to an audience. We have here a simple verb: "you are existing" (Present tense) and a Perfect Passive Participle "you have been saved." "By means of faith … that is [it is] a gift of God." is the way it should be read. And many scholars see it this way, as I did, before I knew that some had a difference of approach as to how the verse should be read.
In other words, the gift of God includes the salvation and the faith.
A. Leckie in the Ritchie Commentary series agrees: "This faith was not of themselves: it was of God. Whatever may precede the exercise of faith, this faith is the gift of God."
Albert Barnes adds: "It is certainly true that faith is the gift of God. It exists in the mind only when the Holy Spirit produces it there."
Lenski writes: "We never produce faith ourselves. … The source and origin is not in you; it is wholly and only in God. … The salvation He has given to you. This is a 'gift' pure and simple. Gratuitously, freely bestowed by abounding grace and mercy."
Hendriksen says: "Faith is entirely dependent on God, and so is our complete salvation. … Faith is included in the gift. … I will immediately add that even this faith (or: even this exercise of faith) is not of yourselves but is God's gift. … Faith, as well as everything else in salvation, is God's gift."
The old great Baptist theologian, John Gill, writes: "This faith is not the produce of man's free-will and power, but it is the free gift of God; and therefore salvation through it is of grace. … Faith is elsewhere represented as the gift of God (John 6:65; Phil. 1:29), and it is called the special gift of faith."
2 Thessalonians 2:13 also tells us faith is a gift of God. "Salvation [is by means of] sanctification by the Spirit and by means of faith in the truth." Here, in 2 Thessalonians the Greek word "sozo" (to save) is used six times. God's choosing is the cause of salvation, but the means comes about by the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the verbal proclamation of faith in the truth. … Faith in itself is not self-generated. All humans are said to be dead in sin and children of wrath by nature (Eph. 2:1, 3) and cannot come to salvation without faith that in itself is a gift of God (2:8). … Not only does salvation come by means (en) of the sanctifying work of the Spirit and by means (en) of faith in the truth but through the agency (dia) of the gospel (v. 14)."
Philippians 1:29 says "For to you it has been given (granted) for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Again, belief is something given externally to us from God. Acts 3:16 goes on: "Faith which comes through Him."
2 Peter 1:1 speaks of "Those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
Without God's sovereign work we would be both helpless and hopeless!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Many translate the passage simply as "By grace you have been saved." This is called a periphrastic construction where the "you are existing" goes silent. But I believe this is wrong. I believe the way I have translated the verse is the way it would have been quoted or read out loud to an audience. We have here a simple verb: "you are existing" (Present tense) and a Perfect Passive Participle "you have been saved." "By means of faith … that is [it is] a gift of God." is the way it should be read. And many scholars see it this way, as I did, before I knew that some had a difference of approach as to how the verse should be read.
In other words, the gift of God includes the salvation and the faith.
A. Leckie in the Ritchie Commentary series agrees: "This faith was not of themselves: it was of God. Whatever may precede the exercise of faith, this faith is the gift of God."
Albert Barnes adds: "It is certainly true that faith is the gift of God. It exists in the mind only when the Holy Spirit produces it there."
Lenski writes: "We never produce faith ourselves. … The source and origin is not in you; it is wholly and only in God. … The salvation He has given to you. This is a 'gift' pure and simple. Gratuitously, freely bestowed by abounding grace and mercy."
Hendriksen says: "Faith is entirely dependent on God, and so is our complete salvation. … Faith is included in the gift. … I will immediately add that even this faith (or: even this exercise of faith) is not of yourselves but is God's gift. … Faith, as well as everything else in salvation, is God's gift."
The old great Baptist theologian, John Gill, writes: "This faith is not the produce of man's free-will and power, but it is the free gift of God; and therefore salvation through it is of grace. … Faith is elsewhere represented as the gift of God (John 6:65; Phil. 1:29), and it is called the special gift of faith."
2 Thessalonians 2:13 also tells us faith is a gift of God. "Salvation [is by means of] sanctification by the Spirit and by means of faith in the truth." Here, in 2 Thessalonians the Greek word "sozo" (to save) is used six times. God's choosing is the cause of salvation, but the means comes about by the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the verbal proclamation of faith in the truth. … Faith in itself is not self-generated. All humans are said to be dead in sin and children of wrath by nature (Eph. 2:1, 3) and cannot come to salvation without faith that in itself is a gift of God (2:8). … Not only does salvation come by means (en) of the sanctifying work of the Spirit and by means (en) of faith in the truth but through the agency (dia) of the gospel (v. 14)."
Philippians 1:29 says "For to you it has been given (granted) for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Again, belief is something given externally to us from God. Acts 3:16 goes on: "Faith which comes through Him."
2 Peter 1:1 speaks of "Those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
Without God's sovereign work we would be both helpless and hopeless!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, do you believe the fires of Gehenna are literal or not?
ANSWER: I believe they are worse than described in Scripture. The Bible uses the concept of fire to describe the terror and pain of hell. This is a physical description. Those who suffer the fires of hell will actually be in an eternal body. Their sins must be punished as required by the righteousness and holiness of a perfect God.
All men have had an opportunity to turn to God, repent, and find the way to salvation through Christ, but none will accept this opportunity of salvation. They repudiate God and defy Him. There is no doubt that they must face an eternity of suffering. We don't fully understand how the flames continue forever but the Bible is certain on that issue. This is a terrible picture but it is verified by the prophets and by Christ Himself.
Man is responsible but he also hates God and refuses to accept His provision for deliverance. I like 1 Corinthians 2:14 because it explains the total depravity of the human race. Paul says the natural man ACCEPTS NOT the things of the Spirit of God. Those things are FOOLISHNESS to him. And he CANNOT UNDERSTAND them, because those things are SPIRITUALLY UNDERSTANDABLE!
Man just does not want what God offers in Christ!
Graphically and poetically, but with accuracy of fact, the lost are cast into hell "where their worm does not die, and the ire is not quenched" (Mark 9:48). This comes from Isaiah 66:24: "For the corpses of the men who have transgressed against Me, for their worm shall not die, and their fire shall be quenched; and they shall be an abhorrence to all mankind." The lost will face "disgrace and everlasting contempt" (Dan. 12:2). Notice, it is "everlasting."
Christ added that the lost will "go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life" (Matt. 25:46). Whatever the physical state, it is an eternal state!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: I believe they are worse than described in Scripture. The Bible uses the concept of fire to describe the terror and pain of hell. This is a physical description. Those who suffer the fires of hell will actually be in an eternal body. Their sins must be punished as required by the righteousness and holiness of a perfect God.
All men have had an opportunity to turn to God, repent, and find the way to salvation through Christ, but none will accept this opportunity of salvation. They repudiate God and defy Him. There is no doubt that they must face an eternity of suffering. We don't fully understand how the flames continue forever but the Bible is certain on that issue. This is a terrible picture but it is verified by the prophets and by Christ Himself.
Man is responsible but he also hates God and refuses to accept His provision for deliverance. I like 1 Corinthians 2:14 because it explains the total depravity of the human race. Paul says the natural man ACCEPTS NOT the things of the Spirit of God. Those things are FOOLISHNESS to him. And he CANNOT UNDERSTAND them, because those things are SPIRITUALLY UNDERSTANDABLE!
Man just does not want what God offers in Christ!
Graphically and poetically, but with accuracy of fact, the lost are cast into hell "where their worm does not die, and the ire is not quenched" (Mark 9:48). This comes from Isaiah 66:24: "For the corpses of the men who have transgressed against Me, for their worm shall not die, and their fire shall be quenched; and they shall be an abhorrence to all mankind." The lost will face "disgrace and everlasting contempt" (Dan. 12:2). Notice, it is "everlasting."
Christ added that the lost will "go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life" (Matt. 25:46). Whatever the physical state, it is an eternal state!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Friday, May 13, 2011
WHEATON DOWN THE DRAIN
A sad day has arrived at Wheaton College. An alumni support group called OneWheaton has hundreds of alumni signing a petition that says homosexuality is not wrong. As a 1968 honors graduate in the Graduate School, I feel betrayed that these grads are so ignorant of the Word of God that they would agree to such an evil slap at what the Lord has said.
In many ways I could see this coming because, as the school departed from the Scriptures, this would be the logical conclusion for many graduates to come to. The school long ago turned its back on the Bible. We knew what would happen in the long run!
The OneWheaton group says that it does not plan to challenge the administration on their viewpoint, but we know that this will happen at some point in the future. This is why a judgment will be coming on America. We have thrown away our blessings and rebelled against the God of Scripture!
I hate to say it but more than likely this pro-sodomy viewpoint is more acceptable than we can imagine. What is interesting is that the pro-sodomy people are so brazen in their attitudes. They do not mind defying the Scriptures, in fact, they are actually proud of this rebellion.
The apostle Paul says homosexuals "have abandoned ("dismissed") the natural function of the woman with the men … and received in their own persons the due penalty of their error" (Rom. 1:27). Thus, they no longer acknowledge God any longer; He has given them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper (v. 28). The judgment against them is certain (vv. 29-32).
What schools will follow in the footsteps of Wheaton alumni? The apostasy is accelerating!
A sad day.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
In many ways I could see this coming because, as the school departed from the Scriptures, this would be the logical conclusion for many graduates to come to. The school long ago turned its back on the Bible. We knew what would happen in the long run!
The OneWheaton group says that it does not plan to challenge the administration on their viewpoint, but we know that this will happen at some point in the future. This is why a judgment will be coming on America. We have thrown away our blessings and rebelled against the God of Scripture!
I hate to say it but more than likely this pro-sodomy viewpoint is more acceptable than we can imagine. What is interesting is that the pro-sodomy people are so brazen in their attitudes. They do not mind defying the Scriptures, in fact, they are actually proud of this rebellion.
The apostle Paul says homosexuals "have abandoned ("dismissed") the natural function of the woman with the men … and received in their own persons the due penalty of their error" (Rom. 1:27). Thus, they no longer acknowledge God any longer; He has given them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper (v. 28). The judgment against them is certain (vv. 29-32).
What schools will follow in the footsteps of Wheaton alumni? The apostasy is accelerating!
A sad day.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what happened to the Jews who accepted Christ as their Messiah in the Gospels?
ANSWER: Good question. You're right. They did not know fully of the fact of His work as the Savior, though they may have known more than we imagine. But if they accepted Him as their Messiah I take it they were acting on all the revelation they had and they were saved! Apparently, the Jews were saved by having faith in what God was revealing, like Abraham as seen in Genesis 15:6. He just believed God and that was sufficient at that point.
However, they knew that the Messiah would justify many (Isa. 53:12). And, "they would be given the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins" (Luke 1:77). In the book of John the verb "to believe" in Christ is used some 90 times. The Jews believed in Him by what He said or by what He did. Surprisingly, the noun "to believe" is not used at all in John! So "to believe" according to John is an active idea! The Jews were holding on to the Lord then by faith. He was the object of that faith but it was not fully understood theologically by all the people.
They would then be added to the church in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit was poured out.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
—Dr Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: Good question. You're right. They did not know fully of the fact of His work as the Savior, though they may have known more than we imagine. But if they accepted Him as their Messiah I take it they were acting on all the revelation they had and they were saved! Apparently, the Jews were saved by having faith in what God was revealing, like Abraham as seen in Genesis 15:6. He just believed God and that was sufficient at that point.
However, they knew that the Messiah would justify many (Isa. 53:12). And, "they would be given the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins" (Luke 1:77). In the book of John the verb "to believe" in Christ is used some 90 times. The Jews believed in Him by what He said or by what He did. Surprisingly, the noun "to believe" is not used at all in John! So "to believe" according to John is an active idea! The Jews were holding on to the Lord then by faith. He was the object of that faith but it was not fully understood theologically by all the people.
They would then be added to the church in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit was poured out.
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
—Dr Mal Couch (5/11)
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
IS SALVATION A GIFT OF GOD?
"For by grace you [all of you] are existing, having been saved, by means of faith, and this is not of yourselves, from God [comes] the gift!"
Many translate the passage simply as "By grace you have been saved." This is called a periphrastic construction where the "you are existing" goes silent. But I believe this is wrong. I believe the way I have translated the verse is the way it would have been quoted or read out loud to an audience. We have here a simple verb: "you are existing" (Present tense) and a Perfect Passive Participle "you have been saved." "By means of faith … that is [it is] a gift of God." is the way it should be read. And many scholars see it this way, as I did, before I knew that some had a difference of approach as to how the verse should be read.
In other words, the gift of God includes the salvation and the faith.
A. Leckie in the Ritchie Commentary series agrees: "This faith was not of themselves: it was of God. Whatever may precede the exercise of faith, this faith is the gift of God."
Albert Barnes adds: "It is certainly true that faith is the gift of God. It exists in the mind only when the Holy Spirit produces it there."
Lenski writes: "We never produce faith ourselves. … The source and origin is not in you; it is wholly and only in God. … The salvation He has given to you. This is a 'gift' pure and simple. Gratuitously, freely bestowed by abounding grace and mercy."
Hendriksen says: "Faith is entirely dependent on God, and so is our complete salvation. … Faith is included in the gift. … I will immediately add that even this faith (or: even this exercise of faith) is not of yourselves but is God's gift. … Faith, as well as everything else in salvation, is God's gift."
The old great Baptist theologian, John Gill, writes: "This faith is not the produce of man's free-will and power, but it is the free gift of God; and therefore salvation through it is of grace. … Faith is elsewhere represented as the gift of God (John 6:65; Phil. 1:29), and it is called the special gift of faith."
2 Thessalonians 2:13 also tells us faith is a gift of God. "Salvation [is by means of] sanctification by the Spirit and by means of faith in the truth." Here, in 2 Thessalonians the Greek word "sozo" (to save) is used six times. God's choosing is the cause of salvation, but the means comes about by the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the verbal proclamation of faith in the truth. … Faith in itself is not self-generated. All humans are said to be dead in sin and children of wrath by nature (Eph. 2:1, 3) and cannot come to salvation without faith that in itself is a gift of God (2:8). … Not only does salvation come by means (en) of the sanctifying work of the Spirit and by means (en) of faith in the truth but through the agency (dia) of the gospel (v. 14)."
Philippians 1:29 says "For to you it has been given (granted) for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Again, belief is something given externally to us from God. Acts 3:16 goes on: "Faith which comes through Him."
2 Peter 1:1 speaks of "Those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
Without God's sovereign work we would be both helpless and hopeless!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Many translate the passage simply as "By grace you have been saved." This is called a periphrastic construction where the "you are existing" goes silent. But I believe this is wrong. I believe the way I have translated the verse is the way it would have been quoted or read out loud to an audience. We have here a simple verb: "you are existing" (Present tense) and a Perfect Passive Participle "you have been saved." "By means of faith … that is [it is] a gift of God." is the way it should be read. And many scholars see it this way, as I did, before I knew that some had a difference of approach as to how the verse should be read.
In other words, the gift of God includes the salvation and the faith.
A. Leckie in the Ritchie Commentary series agrees: "This faith was not of themselves: it was of God. Whatever may precede the exercise of faith, this faith is the gift of God."
Albert Barnes adds: "It is certainly true that faith is the gift of God. It exists in the mind only when the Holy Spirit produces it there."
Lenski writes: "We never produce faith ourselves. … The source and origin is not in you; it is wholly and only in God. … The salvation He has given to you. This is a 'gift' pure and simple. Gratuitously, freely bestowed by abounding grace and mercy."
Hendriksen says: "Faith is entirely dependent on God, and so is our complete salvation. … Faith is included in the gift. … I will immediately add that even this faith (or: even this exercise of faith) is not of yourselves but is God's gift. … Faith, as well as everything else in salvation, is God's gift."
The old great Baptist theologian, John Gill, writes: "This faith is not the produce of man's free-will and power, but it is the free gift of God; and therefore salvation through it is of grace. … Faith is elsewhere represented as the gift of God (John 6:65; Phil. 1:29), and it is called the special gift of faith."
2 Thessalonians 2:13 also tells us faith is a gift of God. "Salvation [is by means of] sanctification by the Spirit and by means of faith in the truth." Here, in 2 Thessalonians the Greek word "sozo" (to save) is used six times. God's choosing is the cause of salvation, but the means comes about by the sanctifying work of the Spirit and the verbal proclamation of faith in the truth. … Faith in itself is not self-generated. All humans are said to be dead in sin and children of wrath by nature (Eph. 2:1, 3) and cannot come to salvation without faith that in itself is a gift of God (2:8). … Not only does salvation come by means (en) of the sanctifying work of the Spirit and by means (en) of faith in the truth but through the agency (dia) of the gospel (v. 14)."
Philippians 1:29 says "For to you it has been given (granted) for Christ's sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Again, belief is something given externally to us from God. Acts 3:16 goes on: "Faith which comes through Him."
2 Peter 1:1 speaks of "Those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
Without God's sovereign work we would be both helpless and hopeless!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, is the Abrahamic covenant still applicable for the Jews today?
ANSWER: Yes, indeed, it is, because first of all, it is called an eternal covenant that is still in operation. Note Psalm 105:8-11. There it states that the covenant was made with Abraham and passed down to Isaac and then Jacob as "an everlasting covenant, saying, 'To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion of your inheritance.'" See also verses 42-45. As well: Isaiah 41:8-11.
Christ said that God made a promise to the Jewish people, and, do they not know, He is (Present tense, exists as) "the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not the God of the dead but of the living" (Matt. 22:31-32). And they are alive in glory! These fathers still exist and the Lord has not forgotten His promises to them.
Mary was promised a fulfillment "of what had been spoken to her by the Lord. And Mary said, 'He has given help to Israel His servant, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his offspring (future Jewish generation) forever'" (Luke 1:54-55).
Zacharias added: God determined "to show mercy toward our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to Abraham our father, to grant us that we being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days" (vv. 72-75).
These promises are given to the Jews and they have not been canceled.
Luke 1:31-33 is also important. Christ, the Son of David will establish His rule, throne, and kingdom, and it will have no end, it will be eternal. This is the house of Jacob, the Jewish people. It is not the church.
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: Yes, indeed, it is, because first of all, it is called an eternal covenant that is still in operation. Note Psalm 105:8-11. There it states that the covenant was made with Abraham and passed down to Isaac and then Jacob as "an everlasting covenant, saying, 'To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion of your inheritance.'" See also verses 42-45. As well: Isaiah 41:8-11.
Christ said that God made a promise to the Jewish people, and, do they not know, He is (Present tense, exists as) "the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not the God of the dead but of the living" (Matt. 22:31-32). And they are alive in glory! These fathers still exist and the Lord has not forgotten His promises to them.
Mary was promised a fulfillment "of what had been spoken to her by the Lord. And Mary said, 'He has given help to Israel His servant, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and his offspring (future Jewish generation) forever'" (Luke 1:54-55).
Zacharias added: God determined "to show mercy toward our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to Abraham our father, to grant us that we being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days" (vv. 72-75).
These promises are given to the Jews and they have not been canceled.
Luke 1:31-33 is also important. Christ, the Son of David will establish His rule, throne, and kingdom, and it will have no end, it will be eternal. This is the house of Jacob, the Jewish people. It is not the church.
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
CLASSIC BOOK AVAILABLE
There are only two Evangelical books available on interpretation and hermeneutics. My Classical Evangelical Hermeneutics (Kregel) is used in seminaries and Bible colleges throughout the country. All the principles of hermeneutics are given plus many other subjects that are important in understanding interpretation. If you don't have a copy you need it for thoroughly understanding how to interpret Scripture. Make the donation check of $15 out to: Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX 76634.
Monday, May 9, 2011
DON'T BE FOOLED!
President Barack Hussein Obama had very little to do with the killing of Bin Laden. You may have noticed that in the room full of military experts, when the mission was being carried out, the man just sat way in the back, kind of crouched down and looking a little sheepish. The plan was conceived and implemented by our prior President, George Bush.
Barack Hussein Obama kept knocking America down when he first came into office, but he changed his tune when he realized the American people were not with him with his cutting remarks. He acted like getting Bin Laden was his idea, when in fact, he would have canceled the plan if he could have! He changes with the tide. He doesn't know what he believes nor does he know what he's doing.
Pray that we can replace this man!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Barack Hussein Obama kept knocking America down when he first came into office, but he changed his tune when he realized the American people were not with him with his cutting remarks. He acted like getting Bin Laden was his idea, when in fact, he would have canceled the plan if he could have! He changes with the tide. He doesn't know what he believes nor does he know what he's doing.
Pray that we can replace this man!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Sunday, May 8, 2011
UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES
There are many Christians working in various departments of our government. They tell me what I've been saying for years now. It's all over! There is no turning back. No matter what they say to their bosses there is no recovery. The problems are too big and the "reach" goes too far to make any course correction. We are all now just identifying the problems but have no workable solutions. We know that the problems all begin as spiritual. Our nation, our families and husbands have departed from the Lord, and thus, there is no positive leadership.
I personally believe that the heart of the problem is weak men, and this comes from the fact of the forces of feminism. Women who want to be men, or at the least, want to be with the men. Women who want to play being pilots, lawyers, etc., anything but being mothers who infuse their spiritual lives into their children and support their husbands. Women do not realize the power they have as women. Men want partners who compliment themselves. Men are so appreciative of a clean house, the encouragement of their wives in the home.
Anyway, I want to use this heading to write what we all need to read, that will change our lives for the sake of the Lord. Look for such contributions in the future. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
I personally believe that the heart of the problem is weak men, and this comes from the fact of the forces of feminism. Women who want to be men, or at the least, want to be with the men. Women who want to play being pilots, lawyers, etc., anything but being mothers who infuse their spiritual lives into their children and support their husbands. Women do not realize the power they have as women. Men want partners who compliment themselves. Men are so appreciative of a clean house, the encouragement of their wives in the home.
Anyway, I want to use this heading to write what we all need to read, that will change our lives for the sake of the Lord. Look for such contributions in the future. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Saturday, May 7, 2011
COMPROMISE – COMPROMISE
The last place you would expect compromise would be on the mission field. But it's happening with some missions who are reaching Muslims for Christ. A new translation for Muslims is coming out that leaves out the expression "The Son of God" in reference to Christ. On Mark 1:11 where it speaks of Jesus being "the Son of God," it's changed to "the Messiah." God the Father says, in the new translation, "You are My beloved Messiah, with You I am well pleased."
This is aberrant and heretical theology. "The Son of God" is not the same as "The Messiah" that means "The Anointed One." Christ is the Anointed One as King over Israel; He is the Son of God by His nature and relationship with the heavenly Father. Two different issues. By cutting out Son of God, and using the term Messiah, this is supposed to be less offensive to Muslims who think Son of God means that God had sex with Mary to create Jesus. But of course this is not what this issue is about.
Three terms are used separate in Psalm 2. "The Anointed One" (v. 2), "The King" (v. 6), and "My Son" (v. 7). Each has its meaning and you cannot substitute one with the other.
There is a difference in making an expression clear to improve understanding, and, cutting something out or re-defining it in order to escape a true meaning. Son of God does not mean Messiah. This was done in order to escape the truth!
If you are involved with a mission reaching out to Muslims, you need to find out if that group is part of the folks who are doing the compromising. If so, remove your support.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
This is aberrant and heretical theology. "The Son of God" is not the same as "The Messiah" that means "The Anointed One." Christ is the Anointed One as King over Israel; He is the Son of God by His nature and relationship with the heavenly Father. Two different issues. By cutting out Son of God, and using the term Messiah, this is supposed to be less offensive to Muslims who think Son of God means that God had sex with Mary to create Jesus. But of course this is not what this issue is about.
Three terms are used separate in Psalm 2. "The Anointed One" (v. 2), "The King" (v. 6), and "My Son" (v. 7). Each has its meaning and you cannot substitute one with the other.
There is a difference in making an expression clear to improve understanding, and, cutting something out or re-defining it in order to escape a true meaning. Son of God does not mean Messiah. This was done in order to escape the truth!
If you are involved with a mission reaching out to Muslims, you need to find out if that group is part of the folks who are doing the compromising. If so, remove your support.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Friday, May 6, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, is Zephaniah 1 about judgment events in Zephaniah's day or is it about the future coming tribulation, the Day of the Lord?
ANSWER: Many are confused with this issue in the book. You got it right in that "the Day of the Lord" is indeed the tribulation. The apostle makes this clear. He writes: "You yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:2). For the world, THEY, will say "Peace and safety! Then sudden destruction will come upon THEM (not us, the church saints) suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and THEY (the lost) shall not escape."
But back to Zephaniah 1, there is something important to notice. 1:2-4a. The Lord will bring universal judgment upon the world: "I will remove all things from the face of the earth," and "I will remove man and animal, and birds of the sky, and the fish, and I will cut off man from the face of the earth."
But then Zephaniah comes back to the context of his day. God will stretch out His hand against Judah and Jerusalem (v. 4a), and, He will judge the pagans (Baal), "the remnant from this place (the holy land)." Thus, "the day of the Lord is near … it is against 'all the people of Canaan'" (v. 7). This is "a punishment on that day" (v. 10a); it "will come about at that time" (v. 12a).
However, note the change in 1:14. "Near is the GREAT day of the Lord." Having translated the passage from Hebrew I noted that it should best read:
"Imminent (in duration) [is] the Day of the Lord, the GREAT (Ha'Ga'Dol)."
This is the only place in Zephaniah where GREAT is used. The other references to "the Day of the Lord" probably are referring to what happened in time past, but then, "the GREAT DAY" would be the terrible tribulation of the end times. But look what is said in verses 15-16:
"A day of wrath is that day, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of trumpet and battle cry" (vv. 15-16).
Compare this with Jeremiah 30:3-8: "For the days are coming" … a sound of terror, of dread, and there is no peace, a woman in childbirth (the birth pangs), all faces turn pale, Alas! For that day is GREAT, there is none like it; it is the time of Jacob's (Israel's) distress (or tribulation), it shall come about in that day ..."
The BIRTH PANGS are clearly about the tribulation just as Christ and Paul say: "It is the beginning of the birth pangs, there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever shall be" (Matt. 24:8, 21). And Paul adds, "The day of the Lord will come upon them suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and they (the lost in the world) shall not escape" (1 Thess. 5:3).
So, Zephaniah has several stages. But the Great Day of the Lord would specifically be the future tribulation. Zephaniah concludes:
"On the day of the Lord's wrath; and all the earth will be devoured in the fire of His jealousy, for He will make a complete end. Indeed a terrifying one, of all the inhabitants of the earth" (1:18).
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
ANSWER: Many are confused with this issue in the book. You got it right in that "the Day of the Lord" is indeed the tribulation. The apostle makes this clear. He writes: "You yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:2). For the world, THEY, will say "Peace and safety! Then sudden destruction will come upon THEM (not us, the church saints) suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and THEY (the lost) shall not escape."
But back to Zephaniah 1, there is something important to notice. 1:2-4a. The Lord will bring universal judgment upon the world: "I will remove all things from the face of the earth," and "I will remove man and animal, and birds of the sky, and the fish, and I will cut off man from the face of the earth."
But then Zephaniah comes back to the context of his day. God will stretch out His hand against Judah and Jerusalem (v. 4a), and, He will judge the pagans (Baal), "the remnant from this place (the holy land)." Thus, "the day of the Lord is near … it is against 'all the people of Canaan'" (v. 7). This is "a punishment on that day" (v. 10a); it "will come about at that time" (v. 12a).
However, note the change in 1:14. "Near is the GREAT day of the Lord." Having translated the passage from Hebrew I noted that it should best read:
"Imminent (in duration) [is] the Day of the Lord, the GREAT (Ha'Ga'Dol)."
This is the only place in Zephaniah where GREAT is used. The other references to "the Day of the Lord" probably are referring to what happened in time past, but then, "the GREAT DAY" would be the terrible tribulation of the end times. But look what is said in verses 15-16:
"A day of wrath is that day, a day of trouble and distress, a day of destruction and desolation, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of trumpet and battle cry" (vv. 15-16).
Compare this with Jeremiah 30:3-8: "For the days are coming" … a sound of terror, of dread, and there is no peace, a woman in childbirth (the birth pangs), all faces turn pale, Alas! For that day is GREAT, there is none like it; it is the time of Jacob's (Israel's) distress (or tribulation), it shall come about in that day ..."
The BIRTH PANGS are clearly about the tribulation just as Christ and Paul say: "It is the beginning of the birth pangs, there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever shall be" (Matt. 24:8, 21). And Paul adds, "The day of the Lord will come upon them suddenly like birth pangs upon a woman with child; and they (the lost in the world) shall not escape" (1 Thess. 5:3).
So, Zephaniah has several stages. But the Great Day of the Lord would specifically be the future tribulation. Zephaniah concludes:
"On the day of the Lord's wrath; and all the earth will be devoured in the fire of His jealousy, for He will make a complete end. Indeed a terrifying one, of all the inhabitants of the earth" (1:18).
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, is there a contradiction between the fact that God hates sin and sinners but still loves the world (John 3:16)?
ANSWER: Absolutely not. God is a righteous God who hates sin and sinners but still loves men and provides a way of escape from their sins in the work of Christ on the cross. You referred to Psalm 5:5 where David said "You hate all who do iniquity." God's attributes of holiness and righteousness demand that He must hate the sinner for his evil work. The Jewish Rabbis write: "The evil man shall not sojourn with You; God does not tolerate their presence. God cannot be bribed with offerings to overlook the evil of their lives."
The Imprecatory Psalms are those where a judgment, a curse, and hatred comes upon the evil. God does not tolerate sin. Note Proverbs 6:16-19. God hates seven things: "Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed blood, a heart that devices wicked plans, feet that run rapidly to evil, a false witness, one who spreads strife between brother." There is no contradiction between hating the sinner for his sin and then providing salvation be loving him. There are two different issues. The "hate" goes away when one turns to Christ, and when that one experiences God's love in the provision of His Son!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch(5/11)
ANSWER: Absolutely not. God is a righteous God who hates sin and sinners but still loves men and provides a way of escape from their sins in the work of Christ on the cross. You referred to Psalm 5:5 where David said "You hate all who do iniquity." God's attributes of holiness and righteousness demand that He must hate the sinner for his evil work. The Jewish Rabbis write: "The evil man shall not sojourn with You; God does not tolerate their presence. God cannot be bribed with offerings to overlook the evil of their lives."
The Imprecatory Psalms are those where a judgment, a curse, and hatred comes upon the evil. God does not tolerate sin. Note Proverbs 6:16-19. God hates seven things: "Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed blood, a heart that devices wicked plans, feet that run rapidly to evil, a false witness, one who spreads strife between brother." There is no contradiction between hating the sinner for his sin and then providing salvation be loving him. There are two different issues. The "hate" goes away when one turns to Christ, and when that one experiences God's love in the provision of His Son!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch(5/11)
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
WHO TO VOTE FOR
I hope every Christian is preparing to vote in the next election. It is our opportunity to have a voice in our nation's direction, as no generation in the past was so privileged. This opportunity is a gift from God! Many believers are voting Republican because it has already been proven that there is, in the big picture, more morality and more Christians in that party. Also, they stand for more righteousness than any other group.
Now this does not mean that the Republicans are perfect, nor that they are a "Christian" party. It simply means that we have a greater opportunity to have sound and good men representing us in office when the chips are down.
Do you vote expecting perfection? You should not. No one is perfect and we do not expect the Republicans to be doctrinally absolute in their decisions. We are selecting one over another. We are selecting the best among several options of imperfection.
What we do not want:
One in office who comes from a culture that has flaws. We want a European, Reformation cultural background in our leaders. This is how America was founded. We do not want one who does not have in his cultural background a family tree that cannot be trusted. One who is not a Christian (but this will be tough to always find).
We want one in office:
Who is not afraid to express his trust in the Lord. We want a man with experience; one who has been in the military. A man who shows strong male leadership; who can lead men when the "combat" (political or otherwise) gets tough! In the last century, most of our Presidents have been in the military. We want male strength and aggression when it is needed! We want strong men who can lead men!
What I have just written is proven by history. Some who are younger may disagree because they are not aware of history! And they have not seen in experience the rightness of what I have written. We want to base our decisions on fact, historical experience, not on emotional Political Correctness! As a historian I will stand on what I have written!
You get the idea!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Now this does not mean that the Republicans are perfect, nor that they are a "Christian" party. It simply means that we have a greater opportunity to have sound and good men representing us in office when the chips are down.
Do you vote expecting perfection? You should not. No one is perfect and we do not expect the Republicans to be doctrinally absolute in their decisions. We are selecting one over another. We are selecting the best among several options of imperfection.
What we do not want:
One in office who comes from a culture that has flaws. We want a European, Reformation cultural background in our leaders. This is how America was founded. We do not want one who does not have in his cultural background a family tree that cannot be trusted. One who is not a Christian (but this will be tough to always find).
We want one in office:
Who is not afraid to express his trust in the Lord. We want a man with experience; one who has been in the military. A man who shows strong male leadership; who can lead men when the "combat" (political or otherwise) gets tough! In the last century, most of our Presidents have been in the military. We want male strength and aggression when it is needed! We want strong men who can lead men!
What I have just written is proven by history. Some who are younger may disagree because they are not aware of history! And they have not seen in experience the rightness of what I have written. We want to base our decisions on fact, historical experience, not on emotional Political Correctness! As a historian I will stand on what I have written!
You get the idea!
—Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
A Letter of Thanks
Dr. Couch, the first time I ever heard anyone teaching verse by verse was the first time we visited at Tyndale Bible Church in Ft. Worth from you. You taught Psalm 139 verse by verse. I got more out of that one hour than I had gotten through the years of preaching at other churches. Wish I still had a recording of it but I gave away my cassette of that long ago, always wanting to have it back, but it's gone! DR
Thank you for your kind thoughts. That is the way pastors should be explaining or exegeting the Word of God. But most pastors are lazy and ill trained. They should be well-trained in the Scriptures, having taken the biblical languages and giving the Word back to people.
The church is dying, exegesis is disappearing, and we're rapidly moving into the apostasy. The Bible is no longer being given in all its glory and clarity.
Thanks for reminding me. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Thank you for your kind thoughts. That is the way pastors should be explaining or exegeting the Word of God. But most pastors are lazy and ill trained. They should be well-trained in the Scriptures, having taken the biblical languages and giving the Word back to people.
The church is dying, exegesis is disappearing, and we're rapidly moving into the apostasy. The Bible is no longer being given in all its glory and clarity.
Thanks for reminding me. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
Monday, May 2, 2011
DR. COUCH AND THE JEWS
Why am I supportive of God's people—the Jews? Well, first of all, because they are "loved" by the Lord, even in their unsaved state. Paul writes: "From the standpoint of the gospel [the Jews] are enemies for your sake, but from the standpoint of God's election they are loved [by Him] for the sake of the [ancient] fathers" (Rom. 11:28). This is motivation enough for us to also care for the Jews, but there is more.
God uses means in order to reach His ends. He places things and people before us for His purposes. Having gone to Israel twenty-three times, and having made about ten documentary films on prophecy and the Holy Land, I have a great concern for Israel and what the Lord is doing with His folks.
Now to my point.
When I was in Junior High School, and High School, my best Pal was Jerry Cohn, a Jew. We did everything together. He and my other close buddy, Jerry Wisely, did things together. I just recently ran into Wisely again, and it is great to go back to the good old days and have good memories. I've tried to find Jerry Cohn, but just can't seem to.
I did not fully realize his role in my life, nor did I completely grasp his Jewishness, and the fact that he was part of the chosen people! But I have a feeling that God used our friendship to draw me closer to the people of God. No, I failed to witness to him as I should have, but I would love to start over again and do just that!
Anyway, my point: God plants stepping stones in our lives along the way. He knows what He is doing, and He does all things for a purpose. I am sure our friendship plays a role in my teaching about the Jewish people, and, my love of biblical prophecy. —Dr. Mal Couch
God uses means in order to reach His ends. He places things and people before us for His purposes. Having gone to Israel twenty-three times, and having made about ten documentary films on prophecy and the Holy Land, I have a great concern for Israel and what the Lord is doing with His folks.
Now to my point.
When I was in Junior High School, and High School, my best Pal was Jerry Cohn, a Jew. We did everything together. He and my other close buddy, Jerry Wisely, did things together. I just recently ran into Wisely again, and it is great to go back to the good old days and have good memories. I've tried to find Jerry Cohn, but just can't seem to.
I did not fully realize his role in my life, nor did I completely grasp his Jewishness, and the fact that he was part of the chosen people! But I have a feeling that God used our friendship to draw me closer to the people of God. No, I failed to witness to him as I should have, but I would love to start over again and do just that!
Anyway, my point: God plants stepping stones in our lives along the way. He knows what He is doing, and He does all things for a purpose. I am sure our friendship plays a role in my teaching about the Jewish people, and, my love of biblical prophecy. —Dr. Mal Couch
Sunday, May 1, 2011
DOCTRINAL CHURCHES
I just read an article that said "doctrinal churches," those that teach doctrine, are not very popular. People want feel-good churches and "active" churches that feed the younger crowd with entertainment, etc. But of course this does not make them right. The truth of the Word of God will never be popular. People want their ears tickled, and, they want light stuff, they don't want to think.
The leaders of a church have a choice. They can cave in to the things the people want or they can be spiritual physicians. Give them what may sting a bit but what is needed. Pastors are not to be popular, they are to be faithful to do what Paul did — teach the full council of God! Or, the complete will of God! God never measures by numbers. Note the case of Gideon's three-hundred. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
The leaders of a church have a choice. They can cave in to the things the people want or they can be spiritual physicians. Give them what may sting a bit but what is needed. Pastors are not to be popular, they are to be faithful to do what Paul did — teach the full council of God! Or, the complete will of God! God never measures by numbers. Note the case of Gideon's three-hundred. —Dr. Mal Couch (5/11)
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