A Biblical Vision, Part II: Mastering the New Testament Witness to Christ

Ses s i on 7: The Reve l at i on of John: The Consummat i on of Al l Th i ngs i n Chr i s t 237

a. Do not be led astray through modern philosophies which are empty, sterile substitutes for biblical teach ing about Christ, Col. 2.8-10 – See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. [9] For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, [10] and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. b. Be careful of the latest fads that do not emphasize the person and work of Jesus Christ, 1 Cor. 3.18-19 – Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. [19] For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness”

B. Critical implications

1. Abiding in Christ, in the true knowledge of him, is the only way to bear spiritual fruit that remains, John 15.1-8.

2. Focusing on the biblical materials dealing with the end times is not effective if they do not lead us to a richer, deeper, more focused relationship with Christ himself.

a. The test of true spirituality and teaching is how does it enable me to develop my love, worship, obedience, and service to Christ, Phil. 3.8-11 – Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ [9] and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith – [10] that I may know him and