Q. Reedsport, Ord. “The Amplified B ible states that the G reek word translated believe, means to adhere to, to cleave to, to trust, to have faith in, and to rely on. This same word is used in connection with the demons who believe. How can tahis be?” A. On the surface it may seem to be puzzling. James 2:19 is the passage referred to. Only true faith can bring forth fruit. The word “believe” can be used in more than one sense. The origin of words is one thing while usage can be another. In James, in reference to the demons, belief means an outward spoken acquiescence or assent. It does not mean that one has given himself over to Christ. De mons certainly do not trust the Lord in a saving faith. Q. Seattle, Wash. “1 understand that there will b e rewards fo r Christian service after this life ends. Would you shed some light on the matter o f rewards for those whose life has been cut short accidentally or for babies who have died?” A. No individual has had his life cut short accidentally. The Lord rules and overrules. When the Christian dies he has finished his course in the sovereign sight of God. We miss a great deal about rewards down here on earth. We read about our crowns in Revelation 4:10,11. A crown in Scripture is synonymous with re wards. These four and twenty elders are representatives of the redeemed. When they see the Lord Jesus Christ they cast their rewards before the throne of God. When we realize fully at that time what the Lord has done for us we will gladly, enthusi astically and joyfully cast our crowns at His feet. We will exhultantly pro claim that He is the One and only One who is really worthy to receive riches and honour and glory. Our service will seem as nothing in the fight of His glory and grace. Page 23
Talbot men checking mail boxes between classes at the Seminary. Q. Santa Barbara, Calif. “W e have been puzzled by the statement that the devil would like if possible to deceive even the elect. Can we es cap e this deception through faith in God’s guidanceF’ A. “Elect” is an interesting word. The Jews and Christians are both referred to as the elect. The context then becomes all the more impor tant. Matthew 24:24, from which your question is taken, refers to the Great Tribulation and has in view the Jews. We see here, too, that “Ex cept those days shall be shortened (or terminated), there should be no flesh saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be terminated.” God is going to stop this terrible time of travail at His appointed time. Oth erwise there would be no Jews left alive.
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