Prophecy of Christ's Everlasting Kingdom:
(Dan 2: 44-45) In the time of those kings (Julias Caesar/s), the God of heaven will set up a Kingdom that will Never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an End, but God's kingdom will endure forever. This is the meaning of the vision of the Rock (Jesus Christ) cut out of the mountain, but not by human hands. The Rock that broke the Iron, the Bronze, the Clay, the Silver and the Gold. 1. The head of Gold: The Babylonian's kingdom lasted 70 yrs. (606-536 B.C.) 2. The breast/arms Silver: The Persian's kingdom endured 200 yrs. (536-332 B.C.)
3. The belly/thighs of Brass: The Greek's kingdom lasted 200 yrs. (331-146 B.C)
4. The legs of Iron/ his feet of part of Clay: The Roman Empire/Roman Catholic Church lasted 1800 yrs- (146 B.C.- 2000 A.D.) (Mark 1: 14-15) Now after that John the Baptist was put in prison,
Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the kingdom of God saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: Repent ye, and believe in the Gospel." (Luke 4: 16-21) Jesus came to Nazareth, where he brought up: and it was his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood to read. When he opened the book of Isaiah where it was written: "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." Jesus says, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." (NIV)
(Matt. 24:14) Jesus says, "This Gospel of the kingdom will be
preached in the Whole World as a testimony to All Nations, and then shall the end come." (Matt 28: 16-20) Jesus came to his Disciple/Apostles saying, "All
Power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Therefore, Go! And make
Disciples of All nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of
The Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to Obey everything I have commanded. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
(Matt. 16: 13-20) Jesus says to Peter, "I tell you that you are Peter, And on this Rock I will build my church and the gates of Hades will not
Overcome it..." In the Greek "Peter" is Petros ("detached stone") and "Rock" is Petra ("bedrock"). The "bedrock" on which the Church is built is 1) Christ 2) Peter's confession of faith in Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God.
(Ephesians 2:19-21) Indicated that the Church is "built on the Foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself as the
Chief Corner stone. In Him the whole building is joined together and
rises to become a holy temple in the Lord". (Revelation 21: 1-12) The New Jerusalem city of God in heaven: The wall of the city had 12 foundations and in them the names of the 12 Apostles of the Lamb.
The Book Title is: The Pilgrim Church by E.H. Broadbent/ F.F. Bruce Chapter V Page 85-101 http://www.amazon.com
The book description: It ought to be obvious to even the casual Observer of history the real story. But this classic work demonstrates that the true heart of this amazing drama is not even recorded in church history book, right from apostolic days. There have always been little groups of persecuted Believers who just wanted to follow the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ.
This hardcover contains 448 pages with timeline and subject index, plus 8 more pages of full color maps to enrich the text. Written in engaging style, this volume will thrill your heart with the stories of unknown heroes of faith. It will spur you on to greater devotion to the Lord Jesus and a deeper concern for His suffering people in many countries today. About the Author: Edmund H. Broadbent was born in Lancashire, England, in 1861. Through his personal study of the New Testament while in his teens, he was convinced of the need to follow the pattern for the church founded there. In his early twenties, business took him to Berlin, where he began a long and fruitful ministry to believers all across Europe and into Asia. His travels and research made him aware that since apostolic time, there had always been movements to form local churches after the apostolic pattern, and he felt it would be useful to collect what could be known about them in orderly consequences. This resulted in the publication of the Pilgrim Church. I. The Origin of Waldenses Sect (70-1700 A.D) In the Alpine valleys of Piedmont there had been for centuries congregation of believers calling themselves brethren, who came widely known as Waldenses or Vaudois, though they did NOT themselves accept the. They trace their Origin in those parts back to the Apostolic times. Like many of the so-called Cathar, Paulican, and other churches, these were not "reformed" never have been degenerated from the New Testament pattern as had been the Roman Catholic and Greek, and some others, but having always maintained, in varying degree, the Apostolic tradition. From the time of Constantine Emperor (312 A.D.) there had continued to be a succession of those who preached the Gospel founded churches, uninfluenced by the relations between Church and State existing at the time.This accounts for the large bodies of Christians, well established in the Scriptures and free from Idolatry and other evils prevailing in the dominant, professing Church, to be found in the Taurus Mountains and the Alpine Valleys. These latter, in the quite seclusion of their mountains, had remained Unaffected by the development of the Roman Church. They considered the Scripture, both for doctrines and Church order, to be binding for their time, and not render obsolete by change of circumstances. It was said of them that their whole manner of thought and action was an endeavor to
Hold Fast the character of Original Christianity.
The Brethren in the Valleys Never Lost the Knowledge and consciousness of their Origin and Unbroken history there. When the 14th Century onward the valleys were invaded and people had to negotiate with the surrounding rulers, they always emphasized this. To Princes of Savoy, who had the longest dealing with them, they could always assert without fear of contradiction the Uniformity of their faith, from father to son, through time immemorial, even from the very age of the Apostles. The Inquisitor Refineries, who died in 1259, has left it on record: "Concerning the sects of ancient heretics, observe, that there have been more 70: all of which, except the sects of the Manicheans and the Arians and the Runcarians and the Leonists which have infected Germany. Among these sects, which either still exist or which have formerly existed. There is not one more pernicious to the church than that of the Leonists: and this is for 3 reasons. The first One is because it has been of longer continuance, for some say that it has lasted from the time of Pope Sylvester, (A.D. 320) others from the time of the Apostles. The Second reason is because it is more general, for there is scarcely any land, in which this Sect does NOT exist. The Third reason is because, while all other sects, through the enormity of their blasphemies against God, strike horror into the hearers, this of Leonists has a great semblance of Piety, inasmuch as they live justly before men, and believe every point well respecting God together with all articles contained in the creed.
A Prior of St. Rock at Turin, Marco Aurelio Rorenco, was ordered in 1630 to write an account of the history and opinion of the Waldenses. He
Wrote that that Waldenses are so ancient as to afford no absolute certainty in regard to the precise time of their Origin, but that, at all events, in the 9th Century and 10th Century they were even then NOT a New Sect. Further, he wrote that Claudius of Turin was to be reckoned among these fomenters and encouragers, inasmuch as he was a person who denied the reverence due to the holy cross, who rejected the veneration and invocation of Saints, and who was a Principle destroyer of images. Claudis plainly teaches justification by Faith, and points out the error of the Catholic Church departing for that truth.
To Francis I of France they said, in 1544 "This Confession is that we Have received from our ancestors, even from hand to hand, according as their predecessors in all time and in Every Age have Taught and Delivered."
A few years later, to the Prince of Savoy they said: "Let your
Highness consider, that this religion in which we live is not merely our
Religion of the Present day or a religion discovered for the First Time only
A few years ago, as our Enemies falsely pretend, but it is the religion of
Our Fathers, and of our Grandfathers, yea, of our Forefathers and of our
Predecessors still more remote. It is the religion of the Saints and of the
Martyrs, of the Confessors and of the Apostles.
When they came into contact with the Reformers in the 16th Century They said: "Our ancestors have often recounted to us that we have existed from the time of the Apostles. In all the matters, nevertheless, we agree with you, and thinking as you think, from the very days of the Apostles themselves, we have ever been consistent respecting the faith."
On the return of the Vaudois to their valleys, their leader, Henri Arnold, in 1689 said: "That their religion is as primitive as their name is
venerable is attested even their adversaries," Then quotes Reinarius the
Inquisitor who, in a report made by him to the Pope on the subject of their faith, admits, "They have existed from time immemorial. It would not be difficult to prove that this poor band of the faithful were in the valleys of Piedmont more than four centuries before the appearance of the subsequent lights of the Reformation. Neither has their Church ever been Reformed, whence arises its title of Evangelic".
The Vaudois are, in fact, descendants from those refugees from Italy, Who, after Apostle Paul had there preached the Gospel, abandoned their
Beautiful country and fled, like the Woman mentioned in (Revelation 12), to these wild mountains, where they have to this day handed down the Gospel, from father to son, in the same purity and simplicity as it was preached by Paul the Apostle.
II. Apostles/Believers: Some of the Brethren devoted themselves entirely to Traveling and Ministering the Word were called "The Perfect" and in accordance with the Lord's words in (Matthew 19:21) Jesus said to the rich young man, "If thou will be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. " They
possessed nothing, had no home, and literally acted upon this command. It was recognized that ALL are not called to such a path. The majority of Believers, while acknowledge that they and ALL they have belong to Christ, should serve him while remaining in their families and Continuing in their usual occupations.
Those whom they called "Apostles" played an important part in their testimony. While the elders and overseers remain in their homes, and churches. The "Apostles" traveled continually, visiting the churches. A distinction was made between those called the "Perfect," and others of the Followers of Christ, based on the fact that in the Gospel some were called to Sell All that they had and follow Christ. While other of His disciples were equally called to serve Him in the surrounding in which He found them. The Waldensian "Apostles" had No property or goods or homes or Family if they had these they left them. Their life was one of Self-Denial,
Hardship and danger. They traveled in utmost Simplicity, without Money,
Without Second suit, their needs being supplied by the Believers among whom they ministered the Word.
~~~ The Waldensians apostles always went 2 and 2, an elder and a younger man, of whom the Latter waited on his older companion. Their visits were highly esteemed, and they were treated with every token of respect and affection. They never asked for anything indeed, many undertook serious medical Studies that they might be able to care for the bodies of those who they met with. The name "Friends of God" was often given to them. Great care was used in commending men to such service, since it was felt that one devoted man was worth more than a hundred whom call to do this ministry was less evident.
The "Apostle" chose poverty, but otherwise it was considered a
Principle duty of each church to provide for their poor. Often, when private Houses were insufficient and simple meeting rooms were built, there would be houses attached to these where their poor or ages could live and care for. Regular individual reading of the scriptures, regular daily family
Worship, and frequent Conferences were among the most Highly Prized means of maintaining spiritual life. These saints would take no part in government; they said the Apostles were often brought before tribunals, but it is not ever said they sat as judges.
At St. Felix de Caraman, near Touluse, in 1167, a conference of Teachers of these churches were held at which an elder from Constantinople took a leading part; he brought good news of the progress of the churches in his own district and also in Roumania, Bulgaria, and Dalmatia. In 1201 the visit of another leader, from Albania, was the occasion of widespread revival in the South of France.
3. Who is the Founder? Brethren from Bosnia and other Balkan countries, making their way Through Italy, came into the South of France, finding everywhere those who shared their faith. The teaching they brought with them found ready
Acceptance. The Roman clergy called them Bulgarians, Cathars, Patarenes, and Others names, and following the habit of Centuries in Asia Minor and in the Balkan countries affirmed that they were Manichaens.
In accordance with the inveterate habit of attaching some sectarian Name to any who endeavored to return to the teaching of the scripture,
many were called at this time Petrobrussians, or Hericans, names which they themselves never acknowledge. Bernard of Clairvaux complained bitterly of their objection to taking the name of anyone as their Founder.
He said, "Inquire of them the author of their sect and they will
Assign none. What heresy is there, which from among men, has not had its own heresiarch?
The Manichaeans had Manes for their prince and preceptor, the Sbellians Sabellius, the Arians Arius, the Eunomians Eunmius. Thus all others pests of this stamp are known to have had each a man, as their several Founders, whence they have at once derived both their origin and their name. But by what appellation or by what title will you enroll these heretics? Truly by none. For their heresy is not derived from man, neither through man have they received it..." He comes to conclusion that they received it from demons.
A later writer, Pilichdorf, also a bitter opponent, says person who Claimed to have thus existed from the time of Pope Sylvester (A.D. 320) were the Waldenses. Some have suggested that Claudis of Turin, was the Founder of the Waldenses in the mountains of Piedmont. He and they had much common, and must have strengthen and encouraged one another, but the brethren called Waldenses were of much older origin.
The relations of Peter Waldo ( A.D. 1160) with the Waldenses were so intimate that many call him the founder of a sect of that name, though others derive the name from the alpine valleys, Vallenses, in which so many of those believers lived. It is true that Waldo was highly esteemed among them, but NOT possible that he should have been their Founder, since they founded their faith and practice on the Scripture and were followers of those who from the earliest time had done the same. For Outsiders to give them the name of a "MAN" prominent among them was only to follow the usual habit of their opponents, who did not like to admit their right to call themselves, as they did, "Christians" or "Brethren" A Waldensian Apostle: Peter Waldo of Lyons, a successful merchant and banker, was aroused to see his need of salvation by the sudden death of one of the guests at a feast he had given. He became so much interested in the Scripture that (1160), a Waldensian minister directed Waldo to the Lord's words, in (Matthew 19: 20-21) when Jesus says, "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." He, therefore, (1173) made over his land property to his wife, sold the Remainder and distributed it among the poor. For the time, he devoted
himself to the study of the Scriptures and then (1180) gave himself to Traveling and Preaching, taking as a guide the Lord's words: "The harvest truly is great but the laborers are few: Pray ye the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest." Companions joined him, and traveling and preaching in this way, came to be known as the "Poor men of Lyons ".
Their appeal for recognition (1179) to the third Lateran Council, under Pope Alexander III, had already been scornfully refused. They were Driven out of Lyons, France by Imperial edict and (1184) Excommunicated. Scattered over the surrounding countries, their preaching proved very effectual, and "Poor Men of Lyons" became one of the many names attached to those who followed Christ and His teachings.
An Inquisitor, David of Augsburg, says: "The Sect of the Poor Men of Lyons and similar ones are the more dangerous the more they adorn themselves with the appearance of Piety...their manner of life is, to
outward appearance, humble and modest, but pride in their hearts."
An old chronicle tells how as early as the year (1177) disciple of Peter Waldo came from Lyons, France to Germany and began to preach in Frankfurt and in Nuremberg, but because of Nuremberg was warned that they should seize and burn them, they disappeared into Bohemia.
Peter Waldo, continued his travels and eventually reached Bohemia,
Where he died (1217), having labored there for many years and sown much seed, the fruit of which was seen in the spiritual harvest in that country at the time of Huss and later. The accession of Peter Waldo and his band of preachers gave an extraordinary impetus to the missionary activities of the Waldenses, who until this time had been somewhat isolated in their remote valleys but now went everywhere preaching the Word.
Brethren from Bosnia and other Balkan countries making their way through Italy came into the south of France, finding everywhere those who shared their faith. The teaching they brought with them found ready acceptance. The Roman clergy called them Bulgarians, Cathars, Patarenes, and other names, following the habit of the centuries in Asia Minor and in the Balkan countries. Prominent among such teachers was Pierce de Brueys, an able and Diligent preacher who for 20 yrs, braving all dangers, traveled throughout
Dauphiny, province Languedoc, and Gascony, drawing multitudes from
Superstition, in which they had been brought up, back to the teachings of the scripture, until he was burned at St. Gilles (1126).
He showed, from Scripture, that none should be baptized until they
Had attained to the full use of their reason that it is useless to build
Churches, as God accepts sincere worship wherever offered; that
crucified should not be venerated, but rather looked upon with horror, as representing instrument on which our Lord suffered that the Bread and Wine are not changed into the body and blood of Christ, but are symbols commutative of His death; and that the prayers and good works of the living cannot benefit the dead.
He was joined by Henri, a monk of Clumsy in deacon's orders, whose striking appearance, powerful voice, and great gift of oratory compelled attention, while denunciation of the crying evil that abounded, his convincing expositions of scripture, and his zeal and devotion, turned very many to repentance and faith, among them notorious sinners, who were converted and became changed in life. Priests who tried to oppose were terrified by the power of his preaching and at the sight of the multitudes that followed him. Undeterred by the violent death of his elder and admired brother and Fellow-Worker, he continued his testimony until Bernard of Clairvaux, at that time the most powerful man in Europe, was called to oppose him, as being the only one who could hope to do so successfully.
Bernard found the Catholic churches deserted and the people wholly turned from clergy, and although Henri was obliged to flee from his powerful opponent, all Bernard's oratory and authority could only put a temporary check on the movement, which was not dependent on any individual but was a spiritual one affecting the whole population. Henri was able to elude capture for a long time and continuer his Fearless work, but falling at last into the hands of the clergy he was Imprisoned and either died in prison or was put to death (1147).
Franciscians/Friars/Domincians Orders:
In the same year (1290) in which the Pope Innocent III inaugurated the Crusade against the South of France, Francis Assis, then 25 years old, Hearing at mass one winter morning the words of Jesus from the 10th chapter of Matthew, in which He gave commands to the twelve as He sent them out to preach, saw in this way of the reformation he had desired and felt himself called to preach in utmost Poverty and Humility.
From this sprang the Order of Franciscans and Friars, which quickly spread over the world. Francis was a wonderful preacher, and his sincerity and devotion and joyous nature drew multitudes to hear him. In (1210) he went to Rome with the little company of his earliest followers, and obtained from the Pope of somewhat reluctant verbal approval of their "Rule", with permission to preach.
The numbers wishing to join were soon so great that to meet the needs of those who desired to keep the Rule, and yet continue in their usual avocations, the "Third Order " was formed, the Tertiaries, who continued their secular occupations while submitting themselves to a prescribe rule of life, the pattern of which is chiefly found in the instructions of the Lord Jesus to the Apostles. They vowed to restore ill-gotten gains, be reconciled to enemies, live in peace with all, live a life of prayer and works of charity, keep fasts and vigils, pay tithes to the church, take no oaths, nor bear arms, use of no bad language, practice piety to the dead. In (1219) the Second Chapter Generald of the Order was held and numerous friars were sent out to all countries, from Germany to Morocco. The Order soon grew beyond the power of Francis to control it, came Under the organizing authority of men of different ideals, and to his great
Grief, the Rule of Poverty was modified. After his death (1126) the division,
Which had begun earlier, between the strict and the lax friars, became more acute; than the stricter ones, or Spirituali, were persecuted, four of them being burnt in Marseilles (1318), and in the same year that Pope formally declared to be Heresy the teaching that Christ and His Apostles possessed nothing. These new orders of Friars, the Dominicans and Franciscans, like the older orders of monks, arose from a sincere desire for deliverance from intolerable evils prevailing in the church and the world, and from the soul's quest after God.
While the order monastic orders were chiefly occupied with personal Salvation and sanctification, the later orders of friars devoted themselves
More to helping in their needs and ministries the men and women around them. Both institutions, the Monastic and Preaching Orders, for a time
exercise a widespread influence for good, yet both, being founded on the ideas of men, quickly Degenerated, and became instrument of evil---active agents in opposing who sought to revival by carrying out and making known the Scriptures.
The histories of the monks and of the friars show that if a spiritual Movement can be kept within the confines of the Roman Catholic Church or any similar system it is Doomed, and must inevitably be dragged down to the level of that which it sought originally to reform. It purchases exemption from persecution at the cost of its life.
Francis of Assisi and Peter Waldo had both laid hold of the same Teaching of the Lord, and yielded themselves to Him with uttermost devotion. In each case the example set and teaching given, gained the hearts of large numbers and affected their whole manner of life. The likeness turned to contrast when one was accepted and the other rejected by the organized religion of Rome. The inward relation to the Lord may have remained the same, but the working out of the two lives differed widely. The Franciscans being absorbed into the Roman system help to bind men to it. While Peter Waldo and his band of preachers directed multitudes to the Scriptures, where they learned to draw for themselves fresh and inexhaustible supplies from the "Well of salvation."
The Inquisition!
Poperly so called did not come into existence until 1231, with the constitution excommunication of Pope Gregory IX. By his action the Pope lessened the bishop's responsibility for orthodoxy place Inquisitors under the special jurisdiction of the Papacy, and established Severe penalties. The office of Inquisition was entrusted almost exclusively to the Franciscans and, especially to the Dominicans, because of their superior training in theology and their supposed freedom from worldly ambition.
With the established of Christianity as the state religion by the Roman emperors in the 4th century, heretics came to considered enemies of the state. During the 12th century opinion began to change, in reaction to resurgence of heresy in an organized form, especially the Albigenses of Southern of France. Albigenses doctrine and practice seemed destructive of matrimony and others institution of society, and after less vigorous effort by his predecessors Pope Innocent III organized a Crusade against the people.
The Pope issued punitive legislation against them, and sent Roman Clergy preachers in the area. The various effort to control heresy were,
However, still uncoordinated and relatively ineffective.
Bernard Gui, an experienced inquisitor describes the Albigensians:
In the first place, they usually say of themselves that they are good
Christians, who do not swear, or lie, or speak evil of others; that they do
Not kill any human or animal, anything having breath of life, and that they
Hold the faith of the Lord Jesus Christ and His Gospel as the Apostles taught.
They assert that they occupy the place of the Apostles, and that on Account of the above mentioned, they of the Roman Church, namely the
Prelates, clergy, and monks, and especially the inquisitors of heresy
Persecuted them and call them Heretics, although they are good men and good Christians, and that they are persecuted just as Christ and his Apostles were by the Pharisees.
Moreover, they talk to the laity of the evil lives of the clergy, and Prelates of the Roman Church, pointing out the setting forth of their pride,
Cupidity, uncleanness of life, and such evil as they know. They attacked
and in turn, all the sacraments of the Church. Especially, the sacrament of Eucharist, saying that it can not contain the body of Christ, for had this been a great as the largest mountain Christians would have entirely consumed it before this.
Of baptism, they assert that the holy water is material and corrupt. It can't sanctify the soul, but the churchmen sell this holy water, just as
They sell earth for the burial of the dead, and oil to the sick when they
Anointed them, as they sell the confessions of sins as made by the priests.
Hence they claim that confession made to the priests of the Roman Catholic church is Useless, and that, since the priests maybe sinners, they Can't bind and loose, being unclean in themselves, cannot make others clean. They asserted, moreover, that the cross of Christ should not be
Venerated or adored because the gallows upon which a father, relatives, or Friends had been hung. They claim many others scandalous things in regard to the sacraments.
Amid such ecclesiastic conditions of the Waldenses apostles made the profession of Extreme poverty a prominent feature in their own lives, and emphasized by their practice the need for the much task of preaching. As they were mainly recruited among the circle not only lacking in
Theological training, but also lacking generally in education.
The principle among these was Berengarius, who about the year 1000 A.D. boldly preached gospel truths according to their primitive purity, form Conviction assented his doctrines, and were on that account called Berengarians. To Berengarius succeeded Peer Bruis, who preached at Toulouse, under the protection of an Earl name Hildephonsus, and the whole tenants of the reformers, with the reasons of their separation from the Church of Rome. By the year 1140 A.D. the number of the reformed was very great, and The probability of its increasing alarmed the Pope who wrote to several
Princes to banish them from their dominion, and employed many Learned man to write against their doctrines. By 1147 A.D., because of Henry of Toulouse, their most eminent preacher, they were called Henricans, and as they would not admit any proofs relative to religion, but what could be deduced from the scriptures themselves, the Popish party gave them the name of Apostolic. http://search.botbot.com Catholic.com--- Waldenses
At length, Peter Waldo, a native of Lyons, France. Eminent of his piety And learning became a strenuous oppose of popery; and from him the reformed, at that time, receive the appellation of Waldenses or Waldoys. Anxious to surrounding their own history and doctrine with the halo of Antiquity, some Waldenses claimed for their churches an apostolic origin. The First Waldenses congregation, it was maintained, were established by the Apostle Paul who, in his journey to Spain, visited the Valley of Piedmont. The history of these foundations was identified with that of Primitive Christendom, as long as the church remained lowly and poor. But in the beginning of the 4th century Pope Sylvester was raised by Constantine, who he had cured leprosy, to a position of power and wealth, and Papacy became to its mission. Some Christians, however, remained true to the faith and practice of the early days, and in the 12th century a certain Peter Waldo, appeared who, from the valleys of the Alps, was called "Waldes". He was NOT the founder of the new sect, but a mission among these faithful observers of the genuine Christens law, and he gained numerous adherents. This account was, indeed, far from being universally credible among The Waldenses; many of them, however, for a considerable period accepted as founded on fact the assertion Claudis of Turin (died 840), Berengarius of Tours (died 1088), or other such men who had precede Waldes, the first represented of the sect.
Pope Alexander III being informed by the bishops of Lyons, of these Transactions, excommunicate Waldo and his adherents, and commanded the bishops to Exterminate them, if possible, from the face of the earth, hence began Papal persecutions against Waldenses.
The proceedings of the Waldo and the reformed, occasioned the first
Use of the inquisitors; for Pope Innocent III authorized certain monks as
Inquisitors, to inquire were short, as an accusation was deemed adequate to guilt, and a candid trial was never granted to the accused. The Pope finding that these cruel means had not intended effect, sent several learned monks to preach among the Waldenses, and to endeavor to Argue them out of their opinions. Among these monks was One, Dominic, who appeared extremely zealous in the cause of Popery. This Dominic instituted an order, which from him was called the Dominicans Friars; the members of this order have since been the principle inquisitors in various inquisitors in the world.
The Power of the Inquisitor was unlimited; the proceed against whom They pleased, without any consideration of age, sex, or rank. To be rich was a crime equal to heresy, therefore many that had money were accused of heresy, or of being favorers of Heretics, that they might be obliged to pay for their opinions. No lawyer dared to plead for his own brother, and their malice even extended beyond the grave, hence the bones of many were dug up and burnt, as the example of the living. If any man on his death bed was accused of being a follower of Waldo, his estate were confiscated, and the heir to them defrauded of his inheritance; and some were sent to Holy Land. While the Dominicans took possession of their houses. And properties, and when the owner returned, would often pretend not to know them. These persecutions were continued for several centuries under different Popes and other great dignitaries of the Catholic Church. Among the Waldenese the "Perfect or Apostles" bound by the vow of poverty wandered about from place to place preaching. Married persons who desired to join them were permitted to dissolve their reunion without the consent of their consort. The Perfect were not allowed to perform manual labor, but were to depend for their subsistence on the members of the Sect known as "FRIENDS." The Friends, continued to live in the world, married owned property, and engaged in secular pursuits. Their generosity and alms were to provide for the material needs of "the Perfect or the Apostles. The historical background by Halley's Bibe Handbook.
These visions in Revelation were given to John on the island at Patmos (A.D. 95). The book was written, in the lurid light of burning martyrs. The church was 66 years old. It had grown enormously. It had suffered, and was suffering, terrific persecutions.
The First imperial persecution instigated by Emperor Nero in (A.D. 64-67). Nero, who is best remembered for the great fire of Rome in A.D. 64, which he probably had set himself to speed up the process of urban renewal, but blamed it on the Christians. Roman historian Tacicus, knew that Christians did not burn Rome, but somebody had to be made scapegoat for the emperor's crime. Here was a new and despised sect of People; mostly from the humbler walk of life without prestige or influence many of them were slaves.
Nero accused them of burning Rome, and ordered their punishment. In and around Rome, multitudes of Christians were arrested and put to death in the cruelest ways. Crucified or tied in skins of animals and thrown into the arena to be eaten by the Wild Beasts, for the entertainment of the people, or tied to the stakes in Nero's gardens, pitch poured over their bodies, and their burning bodies used as torch to light Nero's gardens at night, while he drove around in his chariot, gloating over the dying agonies of his victims. Paul and Peter suffered martyrdom in Nero's persecution.
The Second imperial persecution was under Emperor Domitian (A.D. 95). It was short but severe. More than 40,000 Christians were tortured and killed. It was during this period of persecution in which John was banished to the island of Patmos. The Third imperial persecution, that of Trajan was soon to begin (A.D. 98). John the Apostle had lived through the first two and was now about to enter the third of Rome's effort to blot out the Christian faith. Those were the dark days for the Church, and still darker days were coming. Historians record 10 persecutions of the church in the first 300 yrs Of its existence. God gave these visions for John to write it down, Evidently, to help prepare and steady the church for the awful days ahead, And to comfort the church with the certainty that Christ stands with his People at the beginning, and as well as the end, of history. Christ is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending.(Matthew 16: 13-20) Jesus said to Peter, " ... Upon this Rock I will Build my church and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it." Testimonies of Apostles/Saints (69-430 A.D.) by Henry H. Halley . 1. Polycarp (A.D. 69-156). A pupil of Apostle John. In the persecution Ordered by the Emperor he was arrested and brought before the Governor, and when offered his freedom if he would curse Christ, he replied "Eighty six years have I served Christ and He has done me nothing but good; how then could I curse Him, my Lord and Savior?" He was burned alive.
2. Ignatius (A.D. 67-110). Another pupil of John the Apostle. The Emperor Trajan, on a visit to Antioch, ordered Ignatius to be arrested, Himself, presided at the trial and sentenced him to be thrown to the wild Beasts at Rome. Enrooted to Rome, he wrote a letter to the Roman Christians begging them not to try to procedure his pardon; that he longed for the honor of dying for His Lord; saying, "May the wild beasts be eager to rush upon me. If they were unwilling I will compel them. Come, wild beasts, come tearing and mangling, wracking of bones and hacking of limbs, come cruel tortures of the devil, only let me attain unto Christ."
3. Papias (A.D. 70-155) Another Pupil of Apostle John. He wrote a Book, "Explanation of the Lord's discourses," in which he says he made it a point to enquire of the Elders the exact words of Jesus. He suffered martyrdom at Paramus, about the same time as Polycarp, Ignatius, Papas, form the connecting link between the Apostolic ages and later.
4. Justin Martyr (A.D. 100-167) Born at Neapolis. Ancient Shechem About the time of the time John Apostle died. Studied philosophy. In youth saw a great deal of persecution of Christians, became a convert. Traveled in a philosopher's robe, seeking to win men to Christ. Wrote a defense of Christianity addressed to the Emperor. One of the ablest men of his time. Died a martyr at Rome.
Showing the growth of Christianity, he said that already, in his day
"There is no race of men where prayers are not offered up in the name of Jesus." Here is Justin Martyr's picture of the early Christian worship: " On Sunday a meeting is held of all who live in the cities and villages, and a Section is read from the Memoirs of the Apostles and the writings of the Prophets, along, as time permits.
When the reading is finished, the Apostles, in a discourse, give the admonition and exhortation to imitate these noble things. After this we all arise and offer a common prayer. At the close of the Prayer, as we have before described, Bread and Wine and thanks for them according to his ability, and the congregation answers, "Amen ". Then the consecrated elements are distributed to each one and partaken of, and are carried by the deacons of the houses of the absent. The wealthy and the willing then give contribution according to Their freewill; and this collection is deposited with the Apostles, who Therewith supplies orphans, widows, prisoners, strangers, and who are in Want.
5. Iranaeus (A.D. 130-200) Brought up in Smyrna. Pupil of Polycarp and Papias. Travel widely. Died as a martyr. Here is his reminiscence of Polycarp: "I remember well the place in which Polycarp sat and spoke, I remember the discourses he delivered to the people, and how he describe his relation with John the Apostle and others, who had been with the Lord; how he recited the sayings of Christ and the miracles He wrought; how he received His teaching from eyes- witnesses who had seen the Word of life, agreeing in every way of the Scriptures."6. Origin (A.D.185-254) The most learned man of the ancient church. A great traveler; and a voluminous writer, employing at the times as many as 20 copyists. Two-thirds of the New Testament is quoted in his writings. He lived in Alexandria, where his father Lenidas, suffered martyrdom, later in Palestine, where he died as a result of imprisonment and torture under Deices emperor.7. John Chrysostom (A.D. 345-407) "The golden mouth" a matchless orator greatest preacher of his day, an expository preacher, born at Antioch, preached to great multitudes, a reformer, he displeased the king, was banished and died in exile." The Papacy is an Italian Institution. Roman Empire fell A.D 476 but in the name of Christ, and by the aid Of the Catholic church Rome came to life again. Papal Rome ruled the world on a greater extent, and for a longer time, with more absolute ruler than ever Pagan Rome had done, or any world power before it. It arose on the ruins of the Roman Empire, in the name of Christ occupying the throne of the Caesars; a Revival of the Image of the Roman Empire inheriting the Spirit of thereof: "The ghost of the Roman Empire come to Life in the grab of Christianity." The Popes mostly have been Italians.
The Papacy's methods. It brought itself to power through the prestige of Rome, and the Name of Christ, and by shrewd political alliances, and by deception, and by armed force, and bloodshed has maintained itself in power. Papal Revenues. Through a large part of its history, the Papacy, by The sale of ecclesiastical office, and its shameless traffic Indulgences, has Received vast revenues that enable it to maintain, the most luxurious court In Europe.***** Personal character of the Popes. Some of the Popes have been good men; some of them unspeakable vile the most of them have been absorbed in the pursuit of Secular power.
***** Papal claims. Yet, in spite of the Character of the general run of Popes, their methods, and the secular and Bloody record of the Papacy, These "Holy Fathers" claim that they are the "Vicars of Christ," Infallible "and that they" hold on this earth the place of the Almighty God, "and that Obedience to them is necessary to Salvation."
"*** The Pacy and the Bible. Pope Hildebrand ordered Bohemians not to read the Bible. Innocent III forbade the people reading the Bible in their own languages. Pope Gregory IX forbade laymen possessing the Bible, and suppressed translations. Translations among the Albigenses and Waldenses were burned, and the people burned for having them. Pope Paul IV prohibited the possession of translations without permission of the Inquisition. Jesuits induced Clement XI to condemn the reading of the Bible by the laity.
Antichrist!!
For a thousand years, believing Christians have Identified Rome with the Harlot of Revelation 17.
In the 11th century, Berenger of Tours denounced Rome's dogmas and maintained that the Roman Church was the seed of Satan (Written by George Faber, the history of Ancient Vallenses and Albigenses, 1838) The Waldensians, throughout their long history, identifies the Popes as the Antichrist. The Waldenses treatise title the noble lesson dated 1100 A.D. state: "Antichrist, predicted murder of saints, has already appear in his true character, seated monarchy in the seven-hilled city. "In 1120-1160 A.D. treatise concerning antichrist identified the Pope Of Rome as the Antichrist. George Faber identifies this as a production of Peter Waldo apostle (history of ancient Albigenses, page 379-384).1206 A.D. at a conference of Montreal, the Albigenses made the Following confession "That the Church of Rome was not the spouse of Christ, but the church of confusion, drunk with blood of martyrs. That the policy of the church of Rome was neither good, or holy, nor established by Jesus Christ." (Peter Allix, The ecclesiastic history of the ancient churches of Albigenses, 1821 edition first published in 1692) The Bohemians, a colony of Waldensians in Bohemia, held the following beliefs, according to the Roman Inquisitors. This description was given in the 14th century, but uses from the 13th century "The first error, saith he is that the Church of Rome is not the Church of Jesus Christ, but an assembly of wicked men, and the whore that sits upon the beast in Revelation. They declared the Pope to be the head and ringleader of all errors. (Allix, ancient churches of Piedmont, page 242-259)"The Lollards of the 14th and 15th centuries maintained: "That the Church of Rome was not the Church of Christ, but infidel heathens, and they despised all ecclesiastical laws, together with all bishops, and ministers of the church " (Allix, ancient churches of the Albigenses, Page 230)"The Bible translator, William Tyndale identified the Pope as theAntichrist in his "The practice of prelates and in the preface to the 1534 edition of his new testament contained dramatic portraying the Scarlet Woman in Revelation 17, plainly identifying the Roman Catholic Church with his apostate religious system. In his work Title union with Rome bishop Christopher Woodworth of the Church of England state the view, which prevailed among Protestants at that time." "We tremble at the sight, while we read the inscription mystery of Babylon the great." written by John Apostle in 95 A.D. was guided by the Holy Spirit of God." The Petrobusians judged the Pope to be the antichrist. Throughout the reformation era, Rome was considered the Mother of Harlots. On September 9,1560. The Apostle Jean Louis Paschal of Calabria, just before he was burned alive in the presence of Pope Pius IV in Rome, turned to the Pope and said, "the pope is the enemy of Christ, the persecutor of His people, and the antichrist of scripture and concluded by summoning him and all his cardinals to answer for their cruelties, and murders before the throne of the Lamb." All of the reformation leaders considered the pope as antichrist, including Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Huss, and their successors in the 16th, 17th, 18th and the 19th century persisted in this. (Revelation 12: 5-17) The Woman (the Bride of Christ) fled into the Desert to a place prepared for her by God, where she might be taken care of for 1,260 days...the great dragon, Satan pursued the woman... The woman was given two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the desert, where she would be taken care of 3 1/2 yrs, 1260 days, or 42 months, out of the serpent's reach...Then the dragon was enraged at the Woman and went off to make war against the rest of her offspring's---those who obey God's commandments and hold the testimony of Jesus. (Revelation 7: 9-17) After this I (John) looked and there before me Was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, People and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb (Christ). Then one of the elders asked me. "These in white robes---Who are they, and where did they come from? "I answered, " Sir, you know." and he said, " These are they who have come out of the great tribulation they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb..." (Revelation 11:1-19) I (God) will give power unto my Two witnesses and they shall prophesy 1260 days, the same as 42 months, and 3 1/2 years (Gentiles grace period for accepting the gospel), clothed in sackcloth. These are two olive trees, and the two lamp stands that stand before the Lord of the earth. (Mark 6:7) Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village. Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out TWO and TWO and gave them Authority over evil spirits. If any place will not welcome you or listen to You, shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them. (Luke 10: 1-24) After this the Lord appointed the 72 others and sent them TWO by TWO ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go... Tell them the kingdom of God is near you, but you enter a town and not welcome you... I will tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom and than for that town... He who listens to you listens to me he who rejects you rejects me but he who rejects me rejects Him (the Father) who sent Me. (NIV) The Heroic of men and women for religion of Jesus Christ! Written by James D. Macable (1881) The Valley of Piedmont within their little areas, scarcely larger than the district of Columbia, USA. Has existed from remote times a peculiar race of people, rarely numbering more than 20,000. They have retained their primitive appearance and manners to be a great degree than almost any European community. They have always been noted for the simplicity and purity of their lives, and their absolute freedom from the ignorance, superstition, and vice which have cursed the countries around them.
The men are tall, graceful in action, vigorous and hardly. The women are fair, endowed with a native grace and refinement, and have always been noted for their chastity and modest deportment. Both sexes are frank and hospitable, peaceful and forbearing in deposition. Soon after the introduction of Christianity into Italy by the Apostles, the people of these valleys became converts to the faith preached by Paul the Apostles. They accepted and taught the doctrines of the Apostles, and practice the simple rites or usages as describe by Justin or Tellullian.
They acknowledge the Holy Scriptures as their sole faith, and reject all that was not taught in the book of the New Testament. From the day Constantine (the Roman Emperor, who became a Christian in (312 A.D.) to the present time, they Never changed their faith, and have Never altered in any important particular their religious observances.The Vaudois called themselves only the name of Christians. They were required to commit Memory the gospel of Matthew, and John, the general epistles, and a part of those of Paul. They were instructed, moreover during two or three successive winters, and trained to speak in Latin, and in Italian. They were supported by voluntary contributions of the Believers. One part was given to the ministers, second to the poor, and the third was reserved for missionaries, of the church. They were divided into Two Classes, the "Perfect" and the Friends or Believers, among the "Perfect", bound by vow of poverty, wandered about from place to place preaching. Such an itinerant life was ill suited for the married state, and to the profession of poverty they added the vow of chastity. The "Perfect" were not allowed to performed manual labor, but to depend for their subsistence on the members of the Sect known as Friends. These continued to live in the world, married, owned property, and engaged in secular pursuits. Their generosity and alms were to provide for the materials needs of the "Perfect ".
The missionaries always went Two and Two, a Younger man and an Older one. The latter was the redigor, and Companion the coadjutor. They traveled to Italy, where they had stations organized in many places and secret adherents in almost all the towns. Each minister was required to become a missionary in his turn. The younger ones were thus imitated into the delicate duties of Evangelization, each of them is under the experienced guidance of a man of years, who according to the disciples of his church was his superior and whom he bound to everything as a matter of duty, and not merely out of deference.
(II Timothy 2:1-3) In 67 A.D Paul wrote to Timothy: Thou therefore, my son, be strong in grace that is Christ Jesus, and the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same committed, and entrusted thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou, therefore, endured hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
The Older man on his part, thus made his preparation by training for the church successors, worthy of it and of himself. His task being Accomplished, he could die in peace, with consolatory assurance of having committed the scared trust of the gospel into Prudent and Zealous hands. Their maintenance of the absolute authority of the word of God, and of the doctrine of Salvation by Jesus Christ. The Vaudois, therefore, are Not schematics, but Continued Inheritors of the Church Founded by the Apostles. Very Few of them were married in the ministry and their perpetual Missions, their poverty, their missionary tours, their lives always spent Amidst warfare's and danger, make it easy to Understand the reason of their Celibacy! In the annual synod, special gathering, which was held in the Valleys, inquiries were made concerning the conduct of the ministers and changes of residence, were made among them. Those actually employed in the ministry were changed from Place to Place every Three years. Two of them always exchanged from place to places with another, accepted the aged men, who were no longer removed. ~~~~ Supreme legislative power was vested in the general convention, which met Once or Twice a year, and was originally compose of the "Perfect", but a later date only of the Senior members among them.
The Vaudois, were bound to visit the sick; they admonished those who behave ill, and if remonstrance's produce no effect, they went to length of Excommunication, but it was very Rare! They're preaching catechizing, and other exercise of introduction and devotion, was generally similar to those of reformed churches, except that the worshippers pronounced with a low voice, the prayer that proceeded and that which followed the sermon. The Vaudois likewise had hymns, which they only sung in private, and which, moreover agrees with that we know of the customs of the Primitive Church. Their doctrines were equally analogous, or rather were remarkable identical with those of the Apostolic time, and the earliest Fathers of the church.
This may be briefly summed up in these few words the absolute authority and inspiration of the Bible. The Trinity in the Godhead. The sinful state of man. Free salvation by Jesus Christ, but above all faith Working by Love. Their missionaries were everywhere, proclaiming the simple truths of Christianity, and stirring the hearts of men and women to their very depths. In Hungary, Bohemia, in France, in England, in Scotland, as well as in Italy, they were working with tremendous, through the silent power. Such were the organizations, and such were the doctrines of the Apostolic church of the Valleys of Piedmont! The Waldenses in Italy and other countries! Found on AOL. com Waldenses Italy became a more permanent home of Waldensianism and more active in mission work than France. During the very first years of Waldes' preaching, converts to his views are mentioned in Lombardy. They increase rapidly in number and were joined by some members of the order of Humiliati.
But dissensions soon arose between Waldensians in France and in Lombardy. The latter organized union of craftsmen, desired leaders of their own, and refused admission among "the Perfect" to married person, without the consent of their consort. On Waldes' refusal to sanction these points, his followers in Italy receded during the first decade of the 13th century. After his death, a vain attempt at reunion was made at Bergamo 1218 A.D. The Italian branch after some time not only prospered in the valleys western Piedmont, but also established important colonies in Calabria and Apulia. The appearance of the Waldenses in the Diocese of Straburg is recorded in 1211 A.D. and the year 1231-1233 were marked in Germany by resolute effort to stamp out their errors. But, soon, adherents of the sect were found in Bavaria, Austria, and other countries. They spread in the north to the shores of Baltic Sea, and in the east to Bohemia, Poland and Hungary.Those in Piedmont Valleys enjoyed religious peace from 1536-1559, owing to the political dependence of the district upon France. A contract policy was perused by Duke of Savoy, but the Waldenses at the very outset successfully resisted, and in 1561 were granted in certain district the free exercise of religion. Later in the same century (1685-1699) some of them under stress of renew persecution, emigrated to Switzerland to several cities of Southern of France, and also to the South of America. Thanks to Cheri K. for this information on her website:
Who was William Irvine? Did he start this 2x2 fellowship in 1897?
Following is second-hand story related by George Gittins, a current 2x2 brother Worker from USA but now labor in Canada. Rob Darling, entered the 2x2 ministry in Scotland, 1905 had narrated this story to him.
William Irvine's sister went from Scotland to Ireland to work in Someone's home. When Sunday came, she noticed there were chairs set around the living room, and she asked about it. The people of the home said they had a Worship service in their home each Sunday morning and few others came also. She asked how they got started doing this, and she was told that their ancestors heard homeless preachers in Switzerland. There were no workers in Ireland or Scotland at this time. Later his sister returned to Scotland and told her brother, William Irvine, who was also a dissatisfied Plymouth Brethren church. His sister had embraced the faith while in Ireland, and when she told William about it, he also embraced it, and told his friends who did likewise. William's sister had been told about the lifestyle of some homeless preachers in Switzerland, and when William heard of this, recognized it as scriptural, and he and others went forth in like manner. His sister didn't go in the ministry but she remained true to the Lord. Later, there was contact with the family in Ireland who had introduced this Faith to William's sister. This is what Rob Darling told George Gittens. Garrett Hughes told George that his parents who professed through William Irvine had mentioned something about Switzerland in connection with the "early days" in Scotland. Garrett said that Rob Darling had been there in the "early days" and so whatever he said is true. George read in some history books of an "itinerant preachers group" that fled to Armenia during the persecution in Europe and later to Switzerland (the Alps). Dr. Jaenen, a historian Christian friends, in his lecture "Following Up the First Century Church," he alleges that Irvine heard of this fellowship through Willie Gill's family in England: "A number of tracts and pamphlets directed against us have identified William Irvine as the founder of our faith in Nenagh, Tipperary County, in October, 1897. The fact is that William Irvine was in contact with people who believed in "Apostolic faith" notable the Gill Family in England, before that time. The open ministry did begin in these parts and spread throughout the remnant country very rapidly, so that within the first few years of the 20th century there were scores and scores of young men and women who went into the revived open ministry.
Some of the reasons are given why? William Irvine left the ministry in 1918. 1) William Irvine had a problem along the line of women was a womanizer? 2) He became arrogant, proud, got too big within himself. 3) He became mentally unstable, lost his mind, got off track by false teachings. Of his personality, it was reported that he had a hot temper, was often arrogant, boastful, scornful, and abrasive. That his actions often lacked consideration, mercy and kindness. He harshly criticizes some workers publicly. He exercised rigid control and showed partiality. Irvine was attracted to women for whom he had weakness.
He was asked to leave the ministry because he took up his own doctrines unfounded by scripture. Some of the other senior workers became aware of his weakness; they told him he could no longer occupy a position of leadership within the fellowship. Irvine refused these accusations and so withdrew from the ministry. In 1918 William Irvine left the ministry, went to Jerusalem and waited for Jesus' second return. His death in 1947 at the age of 84 was due to throat cancer (from smoking).
. ***** (I Cor. 18: 28) Paul writes, for God has set some in the church, First Apostles, Secondarily Prophets, Thirdly Teachers...
(I Cor 3: 10-14) By the grace of God has given me (Paul), I laid the Foundation as an expert builder, and Someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no One can lay any foundation other than the One already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man build on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work. (NIV)
(Ephesians 2:19,20) Paul wrote: Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens of God's household, built on the Foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the Chief Cornerstone... (Ephesians 4: 3-14) Make every effort to Keep the Unity of the Spirit Through the bond of peace. There is One Body, One Spirit, and One Spirit, just as you were called One Hope, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One God and Father of All, Who is over All and through All and in All...This says: "When Jesus ascended on high, he lead captives in his train and gave gifts to men". It was He who gave some to be Apostles, some to be Prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be Pastors, and teachers, to Prepare God's people for works of service, so that the Body of Christ may be Build up until We All Reach Unity of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to The whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be Infants, tossed back and forth by the waves and Blown here and there by every wind of teachings and by the Cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitfulness scheming. Instead speaking the Truth in Love, we will, in all things, grow up Into Him who is the Head, that is Christ. (NIV)
(Act 5:33-41) A.D 35 Gamaliel said, "Leave these men (Apostles) Alone! For if their purpose or activity if is of human origin, it will fail. But, if it is from God, you will Not be able to Stop these men; you will only find yourself fighting against God." (Heb. 13: 8) Jesus Christ is the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever. (Ps 100: 5) For the Lord is Good; His mercy is everlasting; and His Truth endured to All generations. (II Cor. 13: 8) Paul said, "For we can do nothing against the truth but for the truth".(John 14: 6) Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life: no Man comes to the Father, but through me. If ye had know me, ye should know my Father also." Truth cannot be improved upon; Truth is Sound, Flawless, Pure;
Truth is Absolutely Perfect! Truth Cannot be Altered or Eliminated;
Truth is Indestructible; Truth Endures Forever;
Truth Remains the Same and Ever will Remain;
His Truth Endures to All generations Truth is Truth, regardless of: Who Perceives it, or Fails to Recognize it; Who Understands it or Misunderstand it; Who Agrees or Disagrees with it; Who Accepts, Objects or Rejects it; Who Opposes, Challenges, Questions or Doubts it; Who Misinterprets, Misconstrues, or Distorts it, Jesus Christ is the Truth, the Way and Life.
Jesus Christ, The same as Yesterday, Today, and Forever.
