Zion — Tracing the Eternal Purpose of God Through Mount Zion, the Throne, Melchizedek, the Manifest Sons of God, the Kingdom Age, and the Fulness of Christ Until God Is All in All
By Carl Timothy Wray
AUTHOR
Carl Timothy Wray has spent more than forty years studying the Scriptures and tracing the eternal purpose of God from Genesis to Revelation. Through hundreds of books, teachings, and free resources distributed around the world, his work focuses on the Finished Work of Christ, the Throne of God, the Book of Revelation, the Revelation of Jesus Christ, the Plan of the Ages, the Manifest Sons of God, the Kingdom of God, and God’s ultimate purpose to gather all things together in Christ. His ministry is dedicated to proclaiming the Full Counsel of God and preparing a people for the increase of Christ’s government, the manifestation of the sons of God, the redemption of the body, and the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose until God becomes all in all.
Zion is one of the most misunderstood themes in the entire Bible. Often reduced to a natural mountain, an earthly city, or a future destination, the Scriptures reveal Zion as something far greater. Zion is the place where God plants the heavens, establishes His government, forms a royal priesthood after the order of Melchizedek, reveals the Manifest Sons of God, and advances His Kingdom throughout the ages. This comprehensive study traces Zion from the eternal purpose of God before the foundation of the world through the Throne, the Plan of the Ages, Pentecost, Tabernacles, the Kingdom Age, the redemption of the body, and the fulness of Christ until God is all in all. Readers interested in Mount Zion, the Kingdom of God, Romans 8, the Manifest Sons of God, Melchizedek, the Feast of Tabernacles, the redemption of the body, the Book of Revelation, and the Full Counsel of God will discover a unified biblical framework connecting Genesis, the Prophets, the Gospels, the Epistles, and Revelation into one unfolding purpose.
ZION: INTRODUCTION
One of the greatest mistakes believers make when studying Zion is beginning with geography.
Many begin with Jerusalem.
Many begin with David.
Many begin with Israel.
Many begin with a natural mountain in the Middle East.
Yet the Scriptures reveal something far greater.
Before there was a mountain, there was a throne.
Before there was a city, there was a purpose.
Before there was Israel, there was Christ.
Before there was time, there was the eternal counsel of God.
Zion did not begin in history.
Zion began in purpose.
The prophet Isaiah records one of the most astonishing statements in all of Scripture:
“And I have put my words in thy mouth, and I have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.” (Isaiah 51:16)
This remarkable passage reveals that Zion is connected to far more than geography.
Zion is connected to the planting of the heavens.
Zion is connected to the laying of the foundations of the earth.
Zion is connected to the administration of God’s Kingdom.
Zion is connected to the manifestation of His purpose.
Throughout Scripture, Zion emerges as the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
It is the mountain of God’s government.
It is the habitation of His presence.
It is the administrative center of His Kingdom.
It is the gathering place of His firstfruits.
It is the dwelling place of the Lamb.
It is the city of the living God.
It is the heavenly Jerusalem.
As the Scriptures unfold, Zion becomes inseparably connected to the Throne of God, the Melchizedek priesthood, the Manifest Sons of God, the Kingdom Age, the redemption of the body, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
Romans 8 reveals a creation waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.
John declares:
“Now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
Paul reveals that creation groans, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
These passages reveal a transition from firstfruits to harvest, from impartation to manifestation, from Pentecost to fulness.
This book explores that transition.
It traces Zion through the eternal purpose of God, through the Throne, through the Ages, through Melchizedek, through the Man-Child, through the Manifest Sons of God, through the Kingdom Age, and into the fulness of Christ until God becomes all in all.
The goal of this study is not merely to understand Zion.
The goal is to understand the purpose Zion serves within God’s eternal plan.
Zion is not merely a mountain.
Zion is not merely a city.
Zion is the place where God plants the heavens.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Why Most Interpretations of Zion Begin Too Late
PART ONE
THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF ZION
Chapter 1
Zion Before the Foundation of the World
Chapter 2
The Throne Before Zion
Chapter 3
Zion: Where God Plants the Heavens
PART TWO
ZION AND THE PLAN OF THE AGES
Chapter 4
Heaven Rules and Earth Manifests
Chapter 5
The Three Great Harvests of God
Chapter 6
From Pentecost to Fulness
PART THREE
ZION AND THE KINGDOM AGE
Chapter 7
The Kingdom Age Hidden in the Feast of Tabernacles
Chapter 8
The Increase of His Government
Chapter 9
Mount Zion and the Government of God
PART FOUR
ZION AND THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
Chapter 10
Now Are We the Sons of God
Chapter 11
Romans 8: The Great Transition Chapter
Chapter 12
The Manifest Sons of God
Chapter 13
To Wit, The Redemption of the Body
PART FIVE
ZION AND THE MELCHIZEDEK ORDER
Chapter 14
The King-Priest of Salem
Chapter 15
Zion and the Melchizedek Priesthood
Chapter 16
Kings and Priests Unto God
PART SIX
ZION AND THE MAN-CHILD
Chapter 17
The Woman and Zion
Chapter 18
The Man-Child Caught Up Unto God and His Throne
Chapter 19
The Firstborn Among Many Brethren
PART SEVEN
ZION AND THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Chapter 20
That Which Is Perfect Is Come
Chapter 21
The Kingdom Age and the Fulness of Christ
Chapter 22
God All in All
Conclusion
Zion — The Place Where God Plants the Heavens and Reveals the Fulness of His Kingdom
CHAPTER 1
ZION BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD
ZION DID NOT BEGIN WITH DAVID
One of the greatest mistakes believers make when studying Zion is beginning with David.
Many begin with Jerusalem.
Many begin with Israel.
Many begin with the tabernacle of David.
Many begin with a natural mountain.
Yet the Scriptures reveal that God’s purpose always begins before its manifestation.
The mountain appears in history.
The purpose existed before history.
The city appears in time.
The purpose existed before time.
The people appear in the earth.
The purpose existed before the foundation of the world.
If we begin with David, we begin too late.
If we begin with Jerusalem, we begin too late.
If we begin with natural Zion, we begin too late.
To understand Zion, we must begin where God begins.
We must begin before the foundation of the world.
BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD
The Apostle Paul takes us beyond Genesis.
He takes us beyond Abraham.
He takes us beyond Israel.
He takes us beyond creation itself.
EPHESIANS 1:4
“According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.”
Notice carefully.
Before there was a mountain there was a people.
Before there was Jerusalem there was a people.
Before there was Zion manifested in history there was a people chosen in Christ.
God’s purpose did not begin in time.
God’s purpose existed before time.
Zion was not God’s reaction.
Zion was God’s intention.
THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF GOD
Paul reveals another key concerning God’s purpose.
EPHESIANS 3:11
“According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Notice the language.
Eternal purpose.
Not temporary purpose.
Not historical purpose.
Not earthly purpose.
Eternal purpose.
Everything God does proceeds from this purpose.
The Throne proceeds from this purpose.
The Kingdom proceeds from this purpose.
The Ages proceed from this purpose.
Zion proceeds from this purpose.
The Manifest Sons of God proceed from this purpose.
The Kingdom Age proceeds from this purpose.
God All in All proceeds from this purpose.
Zion is not an isolated doctrine.
Zion is part of the eternal purpose of God.
BEFORE THERE WAS A MOUNTAIN THERE WAS A THRONE
The Scriptures continually reveal that government precedes manifestation.
Before there was a kingdom there was a King.
Before there was a city there was a Throne.
Before there was Zion there was government.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The throne is the source.
The kingdom is the manifestation.
The administration precedes the expression.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
Zion becomes the place where that heavenly administration is revealed in the earth.
GOD DECLARES THE END FROM THE BEGINNING
The Lord does not discover outcomes.
The Lord declares outcomes.
ISAIAH 46:9-10
“I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done.”
The Lord saw Zion before David.
The Lord saw Zion before Jerusalem.
The Lord saw Zion before Abraham.
The Lord saw Zion before Adam.
The Lord saw the end from the beginning.
The manifestation existed within the purpose before it appeared in history.
ALL THINGS WERE CREATED FOR CHRIST
To understand Zion we must understand Christ.
Everything points to Him.
Everything proceeds from Him.
Everything returns unto Him.
COLOSSIANS 1:16
“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible… all things were created by him, and for him.”
Notice:
All things were created for Christ.
The Ages were created for Christ.
The Kingdom was created for Christ.
The Throne reveals Christ.
Zion reveals Christ.
The Manifest Sons reveal Christ.
The Kingdom Age reveals Christ.
Everything moves toward Christ filling all things.
THE GATHERING OF ALL THINGS IN CHRIST
The eternal purpose is revealed again.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
Notice the language.
The fulness of times.
The gathering together.
All things.
Christ.
This is the destination of history.
This is the destination of the ages.
This is the destination of Zion.
Everything is moving toward divine unity in Christ.
Everything is moving toward the fulness of God’s purpose.
Everything is moving toward God being all in all.
ZION WAS HIDDEN IN THE PURPOSE BEFORE IT APPEARED IN HISTORY
Throughout Scripture God reveals a pattern.
Purpose first.
Manifestation second.
Seed first.
Harvest second.
Promise first.
Fulfillment second.
Zion follows the same pattern.
Before Zion appeared in history it existed in purpose.
Before Zion appeared in Jerusalem it existed in Christ.
Before Zion became visible it existed within the eternal counsel of God.
The manifestation came later.
The purpose was first.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The purpose of God has always involved sonship.
HEBREWS 2:10
“For it became him… in bringing many sons unto glory.”
Notice:
Many sons.
Not one Son only.
Many sons.
God’s purpose is corporate.
God’s purpose is family.
God’s purpose is sonship.
God’s purpose is manifestation.
The Zion company is connected to this purpose.
The Manifest Sons of God are connected to this purpose.
The Kingdom Age is connected to this purpose.
The redemption of the body is connected to this purpose.
Everything moves toward the unveiling of what God purposed before the foundation of the world.
THE FIRSTFRUITS AND THE HARVEST
God always works progressively.
The seed comes first.
The harvest comes later.
JAMES 1:18
“That we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit… waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
The firstfruits reveal that something greater is coming.
Firstfruits imply harvest.
Beginning implies fulness.
Pentecost implies Tabernacles.
Impartation implies manifestation.
The purpose of God moves progressively toward fulness.
Zion becomes one of the great scriptural witnesses of that progression.
THE CITY OF THE LIVING GOD
The writer of Hebrews reveals Zion in a remarkable way.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.”
Notice carefully.
Not:
Ye shall come.
Not:
Ye might come.
Not:
One day you will come.
But:
Ye are come.
The reality existed before its full manifestation.
The heavenly reality precedes the earthly manifestation.
This is one of the great keys to understanding Zion.
ZION BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD
Before there was Jerusalem, there was purpose.
Before there was David, there was purpose.
Before there was Israel, there was purpose.
Before there was a mountain, there was a throne.
Before there was manifestation, there was administration.
Before there was history, there was Christ.
Zion is not merely a mountain.
Zion is not merely a city.
Zion is not merely a location.
Zion is part of the eternal purpose of God established before the foundation of the world.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Before there was creation, there was purpose.
Before there was Adam, there was Christ.
Before there was a kingdom, there was a throne.
Before there was Zion manifested in history, there was Zion in the eternal counsel of God.
The Lord chose a people in Christ before the foundation of the world.
The Lord established an eternal purpose before the ages began.
The Lord declared the end from the beginning.
Zion is not an afterthought.
Zion is not merely geography.
Zion is part of the eternal purpose of God moving through the ages toward the gathering together of all things in Christ, the manifestation of the sons of God, the Kingdom of Fulness, and ultimately God becoming all in all.
CHAPTER 2
THE THRONE BEFORE ZION
BEFORE THERE WAS A MOUNTAIN THERE WAS A THRONE
One of the greatest mistakes believers make when studying Zion is beginning with the mountain.
Many begin with geography.
Many begin with Jerusalem.
Many begin with David.
Many begin with Israel.
Yet the Scriptures reveal a greater order.
Before there was a mountain there was a throne.
Before there was a kingdom there was a King.
Before there was a city there was government.
Before there was Zion manifested in the earth there was divine administration.
To understand Zion properly, we must first understand the Throne.
The Throne is the source.
Zion is the manifestation.
The Throne is the administration.
Zion is the expression.
The Throne comes first.
THE THRONE EXISTED BEFORE CREATION
The Throne did not appear after creation.
The Throne existed before creation.
The Throne existed before Adam.
The Throne existed before sin.
The Throne existed before time.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
Notice the order.
The Throne first.
The Kingdom second.
Government first.
Manifestation second.
Administration first.
Expression second.
This divine order never changes throughout Scripture.
THE THRONE IS THE CENTER OF DIVINE ADMINISTRATION
The Throne is more than a seat.
The Throne represents government.
The Throne represents authority.
The Throne represents administration.
The Throne reveals who rules.
The Throne reveals whose purpose is being accomplished.
Everything proceeds from the Throne.
Everything returns to the Throne.
DANIEL 4:26
“The heavens do rule.”
This simple statement unlocks an enormous truth.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The administration originates above.
The manifestation appears below.
Zion becomes the place where heavenly administration is manifested in the earth.
ISAIAH SAW THE THRONE
Before Isaiah understood his ministry, he saw the Throne.
ISAIAH 6:1
“I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.”
Notice carefully.
Before the commission came, the Throne came.
Before the message came, the Throne came.
Before the ministry came, the Throne came.
All true revelation begins with the Throne.
Zion cannot be understood apart from the Throne because Zion proceeds from the Throne.
EZEKIEL SAW THE THRONE
EZEKIEL 1:26
“And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne.”
Ezekiel saw wheels.
Ezekiel saw movement.
Ezekiel saw administration.
Ezekiel saw living creatures.
Yet above everything stood the Throne.
Governments change.
Empires change.
Generations change.
Administrations change.
The Throne remains.
The Throne governs every age.
The Throne governs every administration.
The Throne governs every purpose.
DANIEL SAW THE THRONE
DANIEL 7:9
“I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit.”
Daniel saw kingdoms rise.
Daniel saw kingdoms fall.
Daniel saw beasts.
Daniel saw world empires.
Daniel saw political systems.
Yet above every throne sat the Ancient of Days.
This is the great lesson.
The kingdoms of men are temporary.
The Throne of God is eternal.
The governments of men pass away.
The government of God remains.
JOHN SAW THE THRONE
Before John saw seals, he saw a Throne.
Before John saw trumpets, he saw a Throne.
Before John saw beasts, he saw a Throne.
Before John saw Babylon, he saw a Throne.
Before John saw New Jerusalem, he saw a Throne.
REVELATION 4:2
“And, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.”
The Book of Revelation is not primarily about beasts.
It is not primarily about judgments.
It is not primarily about catastrophe.
It is primarily about the Throne governing creation until all things are brought into divine order.
ZION PROCEEDS FROM THE THRONE
This is one of the most important truths in this study.
Zion does not create government.
Government creates Zion.
Zion does not establish the Throne.
The Throne establishes Zion.
Zion is the manifestation of heavenly government.
Zion is the earthly expression of heavenly administration.
ISAIAH 2:3
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
Notice what proceeds from Zion.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
The Word.
Why?
Because Zion has become aligned with the Throne.
The Throne administers.
Zion manifests.
THE THRONE AND THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age is fundamentally governmental.
Many think only of blessing.
Many think only of harvest.
Many think only of manifestation.
Yet the Kingdom Age is first an increase of divine government.
ISAIAH 9:6-7
“And the government shall be upon his shoulder… Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Notice:
Government.
Increase.
Peace.
Kingdom.
The Kingdom Age is the increase of His government.
The Kingdom Age is the increase of His administration.
The Kingdom Age is the increase of His rule.
Zion becomes the vessel through which that government is manifested.
MOUNT ZION AND THE THRONE
The Book of Revelation brings these realities together.
REVELATION 14:1
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand.”
Notice the imagery.
The Lamb.
Mount Zion.
Government.
Authority.
Administration.
A people standing with the Lamb.
A people united with His purpose.
A people sharing His government.
A people participating in His Kingdom.
This is not merely mountain language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is Throne language.
THE THRONE PREPARES THE WAY FOR ZION
Before God says:
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
There must first be a Throne.
There must first be administration.
There must first be government.
There must first be divine purpose.
The heavens are planted because the Throne decrees it.
The earth is established because the Throne governs it.
Zion appears because the Throne administers it.
THE THRONE AND THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Everything moves toward one destination.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
The Throne governs this process.
The Throne governs the ages.
The Throne governs the Kingdom.
The Throne governs the manifestation of the sons of God.
The Throne governs the redemption of the body.
The Throne governs the Kingdom Age.
The Throne governs the fulness of Christ.
Everything moves toward divine unity under the administration of Christ.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Before there was a mountain there was a Throne.
Before there was Zion there was government.
Before there was manifestation there was administration.
Isaiah saw the Throne.
Ezekiel saw the Throne.
Daniel saw the Throne.
John saw the Throne.
The Throne is the source of all divine government.
The Throne is the center of God’s eternal purpose.
Zion does not create the Kingdom.
Zion manifests the Kingdom.
Zion does not establish the government.
Zion reveals the government.
The Kingdom Age is the increase of Christ’s government throughout creation.
The Throne administers.
Zion manifests.
The heavens rule.
The earth responds.
And from that eternal Throne proceeds the purpose that ultimately plants the heavens, lays the foundations of the earth, reveals Mount Zion, manifests the sons of God, and brings creation into the fulness of Christ until God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 3
ZION: WHERE GOD PLANTS THE HEAVENS
THE FORGOTTEN ZION PASSAGE
One of the most remarkable verses in all of Scripture is rarely discussed.
Many believers know Psalm 2.
Many believers know Psalm 48.
Many believers know Hebrews 12.
Many believers know Revelation 14.
Yet few stop and consider one of the most profound statements God ever made concerning Zion.
ISAIAH 51:16
“And I have put my words in thy mouth, and I have covered thee in the shadow of mine hand, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
This verse contains an entire Kingdom revelation.
This verse contains administration.
This verse contains manifestation.
This verse contains Zion.
This verse contains the Kingdom Age.
This verse contains the transition from purpose to fulfillment.
The Lord reveals a divine order:
The Word.
The heavens.
The earth.
Zion.
Everything in this book begins to converge in this verse.
I HAVE PUT MY WORDS IN THY MOUTH
Notice where God begins.
He does not begin with the heavens.
He does not begin with the earth.
He begins with His Word.
DEUTERONOMY 8:3
“Man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord.”
JEREMIAH 1:9
“Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.”
Throughout Scripture, God begins with His Word.
Creation began with His Word.
The prophets spoke His Word.
Christ is the Word made flesh.
The Kingdom advances through His Word.
The New Creation is established through His Word.
The first step toward Zion is always the Word.
THE WORD PRECEDES THE MANIFESTATION
The pattern never changes.
GENESIS 1:3
“And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.”
God speaks.
Then manifestation follows.
God decrees.
Then fulfillment follows.
God establishes.
Then manifestation appears.
This is the order of the Kingdom.
Word first.
Manifestation second.
Administration first.
Expression second.
Purpose first.
Fulfillment second.
THAT I MAY PLANT THE HEAVENS
This may be one of the most astonishing phrases in Scripture.
The Lord does not say:
Destroy the heavens.
Replace the heavens.
Abandon the heavens.
He says:
“That I may plant the heavens.”
Planting speaks of growth.
Planting speaks of increase.
Planting speaks of purpose.
Planting speaks of harvest.
Planting speaks of life.
The Kingdom of God is repeatedly described through agricultural language.
MARK 4:26-28
“So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground… first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.”
The Kingdom grows.
The Kingdom increases.
The Kingdom matures.
The Kingdom reaches fullness.
God plants before He harvests.
HEAVEN RULES AND EARTH MANIFESTS
To understand planted heavens we must understand heavenly government.
DANIEL 4:26
“The heavens do rule.”
The heavens represent administration.
The heavens represent government.
The heavens represent authority.
The heavens represent divine order.
The earth manifests whatever administration governs it.
This principle appears throughout Scripture.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The Throne administers.
Creation responds.
The Kingdom Age is the progressive manifestation of heavenly administration in the earth.
CHRIST IS THE NEW HEAVENLY MAN
The planted heavens ultimately point to Christ.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:47
“The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.”
Christ introduces a new administration.
Christ introduces a new order.
Christ introduces a new government.
Christ introduces a new creation.
Everything God plants finds its fulfillment in Christ.
LAY THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EARTH
Notice the order.
First the heavens.
Then the earth.
Administration precedes manifestation.
Government precedes expression.
The heavens are planted.
Then the foundations of the earth are laid.
This is the same order seen throughout Scripture.
MATTHEW 6:10
“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
The goal is not escape from earth.
The goal is heavenly administration manifested in earth.
The goal is heaven ruling and earth responding.
The goal is divine government producing divine manifestation.
THE EARTH WAITS FOR MANIFESTATION
The earth is not waiting for more information.
The earth is waiting for manifestation.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits.
The nations wait.
The earth waits.
Why?
Because heaven has been planted.
The administration has been established.
The manifestation is still unfolding.
The earth waits for what heaven has already decreed.
SAY UNTO ZION, THOU ART MY PEOPLE
Now we arrive at Zion.
Notice Zion appears after the heavens are planted.
Notice Zion appears after the foundations are laid.
Zion becomes the vessel of manifestation.
PSALM 132:13
“For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.”
PSALM 132:14
“This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.”
Zion is not merely geography.
Zion is habitation.
Zion is government.
Zion is administration.
Zion is relationship.
Zion is the place where God says:
“Thou art my people.”
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews moves Zion beyond natural geography.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.”
Notice:
Not someday.
Not eventually.
Not after death.
Ye are come.
Zion is presented as a present heavenly reality.
A Kingdom reality.
A governmental reality.
A spiritual reality.
ZION AND THE KINGDOM OF FULNESS
Isaiah 51:16 reveals a progression.
Word.
Heavens.
Earth.
Zion.
This progression harmonizes with the movement from Pentecost into Tabernacles.
The Spirit is given.
The heavens are planted.
The sons are formed.
The earth begins to manifest.
The Kingdom increases.
The harvest comes.
The fullness appears.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The goal is fullness.
The goal is maturity.
The goal is manifestation.
The goal is the Kingdom fully expressed.
Zion becomes one of the great scriptural pictures of that fullness.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS AND THE MANIFEST SONS
The heavens are planted before the sons are manifested.
The administration is established before the manifestation appears.
The seed is planted before the harvest emerges.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
These passages reveal the same progression.
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Firstfruits.
Harvest.
Pentecost.
Tabernacles.
The planted heavens move toward manifested sonship.
ZION: WHERE GOD PLANTS THE HEAVENS
Isaiah 51:16 reveals one of the greatest Kingdom mysteries in Scripture.
God begins with His Word.
God plants the heavens.
God lays the foundations of the earth.
God forms a people.
God reveals Zion.
Zion becomes the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
Zion becomes the place where divine administration becomes visible expression.
Zion becomes the habitation of God.
Zion becomes the mountain of His government.
Zion becomes the vessel through which the Kingdom advances into fullness.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The Lord begins with His Word.
The Word precedes manifestation.
The heavens are planted before the earth is established.
Administration precedes manifestation.
Government precedes expression.
The heavens rule.
The earth responds.
The earth waits for the manifestation of the sons of God.
Zion emerges as the place where God plants the heavens, lays the foundations of the earth, and reveals a people through whom His Kingdom is manifested.
Isaiah 51:16 is not merely a Zion passage.
It is a Kingdom passage.
It is a fullness passage.
It is a manifestation passage.
It is a revelation of God’s eternal purpose unfolding through Zion until the fullness of Christ fills all things.
CHAPTER 4
HEAVEN RULES AND EARTH MANIFESTS
THE GREAT PRINCIPLE OF THE KINGDOM
One of the greatest principles governing all Scripture is revealed in a single statement found in the Book of Daniel:
DANIEL 4:26
“The heavens do rule.”
This simple declaration unlocks a profound understanding of the Kingdom of God.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The Throne administers.
Creation responds.
The government proceeds from above.
The manifestation appears below.
This principle governs creation.
This principle governs redemption.
This principle governs the Kingdom.
This principle governs Zion.
This principle governs the manifestation of the sons of God.
This principle governs the Kingdom Age.
To understand Zion, we must understand this divine order.
Heaven rules.
Earth manifests.
THE PATTERN BEGINS IN GENESIS
The first chapter of the Bible establishes this pattern.
GENESIS 1:3
“And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.”
Notice the order.
God speaks.
Creation responds.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The Word proceeds.
The manifestation follows.
Again and again the pattern repeats.
GENESIS 1:6
“And God said…”
GENESIS 1:9
“And God said…”
GENESIS 1:11
“And God said…”
Throughout creation the same principle appears.
Administration precedes manifestation.
Purpose precedes fulfillment.
Government precedes expression.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
THE THRONE GOVERNS CREATION
The source of all government is the Throne.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The Throne governs.
The Kingdom manifests.
The administration proceeds from heaven.
The manifestation appears in creation.
Everything begins with the Throne.
Nothing begins with the earth.
Nothing begins with man.
Nothing begins with circumstances.
Everything begins with God.
ADAM WAS CREATED TO MANIFEST HEAVEN
The original purpose of man was to express divine administration.
GENESIS 1:26
“Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion.”
Man was created to manifest heavenly government.
Man was created to reveal divine order.
Man was created to express God’s nature within creation.
As long as Adam remained submitted to heaven, earth reflected heaven.
The administration determined the manifestation.
The government determined the condition of the realm being governed.
THE FALL WAS A GOVERNMENTAL FAILURE
The problem was never the earth.
The problem was government.
The problem was administration.
The problem was man departing from divine rule.
GENESIS 3:6
“And she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat.”
When Adam departed from divine administration, the earth reflected the change.
Fear appeared.
Death appeared.
Corruption appeared.
Toil appeared.
Bondage appeared.
What happened in government became visible in manifestation.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
ISRAEL REVEALS THE SAME PRINCIPLE
Throughout Israel’s history the same pattern appears.
When Israel submitted to God, blessing followed.
When Israel rejected God, confusion followed.
The issue was always government.
Who was ruling?
God?
Or self?
DEUTERONOMY 28:1-2
“If thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God… all these blessings shall come on thee.”
Administration determines manifestation.
Government determines outcome.
Heaven rules.
Earth manifests.
JESUS REVEALS THE PERFECT PATTERN
No one demonstrated this principle more perfectly than Christ.
JOHN 5:19
“The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do.”
Jesus did not operate independently.
The Father administered.
The Son manifested.
The Father spoke.
The Son revealed.
The Father governed.
The Son expressed that government in the earth.
Christ became the perfect union of heaven and earth.
The perfect manifestation of divine administration.
THY KINGDOM COME
The Lord’s Prayer reveals the goal of God’s purpose.
MATTHEW 6:10
“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
Notice carefully.
The prayer is not:
Take earth to heaven.
The prayer is:
Bring heaven into earth.
Bring divine administration into manifestation.
Bring divine government into expression.
Bring divine purpose into fulfillment.
This prayer reaches its fullness through Zion.
ZION IS THE BRIDGE BETWEEN HEAVEN AND EARTH
Isaiah reveals one of the greatest mysteries in Scripture.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Notice the progression.
The heavens.
The earth.
Zion.
Zion becomes the meeting place.
Zion receives heavenly administration.
Zion manifests earthly expression.
Zion becomes the bridge between heaven and earth.
The Throne administers.
Zion manifests.
OUT OF ZION SHALL GO FORTH THE LAW
The government of God proceeds through Zion.
ISAIAH 2:3
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
Notice what proceeds from Zion.
The Word.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Why?
Because Zion has become aligned with heaven.
Zion has become the vessel through which heavenly government enters earthly manifestation.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews moves Zion beyond geography.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.”
Zion is not merely natural.
Zion is heavenly.
Zion is governmental.
Zion is administrative.
Zion is the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
Romans 8 reveals creation waiting for manifestation.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation is not waiting for more information.
Creation is waiting for manifestation.
Why?
Because heaven has already decreed what earth has not yet fully manifested.
The administration exists.
The manifestation is unfolding.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
FROM PENTECOST TO TABERNACLES
This principle helps us understand the movement toward fullness.
Pentecost speaks of impartation.
Tabernacles speaks of manifestation.
Pentecost gives the firstfruits.
Tabernacles reveals the harvest.
Pentecost begins the process.
Tabernacles reveals the fullness.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
The firstfruits have been given.
The harvest is coming.
The heavens have been planted.
The earth is being established.
The Kingdom is advancing toward fullness.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age is the progressive manifestation of heavenly administration throughout creation.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Notice:
Increase.
Government.
Peace.
Kingdom.
The Kingdom Age is not merely an event.
The Kingdom Age is the increase of Christ’s government.
The increase of heavenly administration.
The increase of manifestation.
The increase of His rule.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final destination is revealed by Paul.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
Everything moves toward this goal.
The Throne.
The Kingdom.
The Ages.
Zion.
The Manifest Sons.
The redemption of the body.
The Kingdom Age.
The fullness of Christ.
Everything moves toward God being all in all.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The purpose reaches fulfillment.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The heavens do rule.
This principle governs all Scripture.
God speaks and creation responds.
The Throne administers and the Kingdom manifests.
Adam was created to express heavenly government.
Israel revealed the importance of divine administration.
Christ became the perfect manifestation of heavenly rule.
Zion stands as the bridge between heaven and earth.
The Manifest Sons of God reveal the progressive manifestation of heavenly administration.
Pentecost introduces firstfruits.
Tabernacles reveals fullness.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The Throne administers.
Zion expresses.
And God’s eternal purpose advances until God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 5
THE THREE GREAT HARVESTS OF GOD
THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS A HARVEST
One of the greatest mistakes believers make when studying God’s purpose is viewing redemption as a single event.
The Scriptures reveal something much larger.
God works through seedtime and harvest.
God works through increase.
God works through growth.
God works through progressive fulfillment.
The Kingdom of God unfolds according to divine order.
The Lord does not begin with harvest.
The Lord begins with seed.
The Lord does not begin with fullness.
The Lord begins with firstfruits.
The Lord does not begin with manifestation.
The Lord begins with impartation.
The harvest principle governs creation.
The harvest principle governs redemption.
The harvest principle governs the Kingdom.
The harvest principle governs Zion.
The harvest principle governs the manifestation of the sons of God.
The harvest principle governs the Kingdom Age.
FIRST THE BLADE, THEN THE EAR, THEN THE FULL CORN
Jesus revealed the pattern of the Kingdom.
MARK 4:26-29
“So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground.”
“For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.”
Notice the divine order.
First.
Then.
After that.
God works progressively.
God works through increase.
God works through maturity.
God works through fullness.
The Kingdom develops.
The Kingdom grows.
The Kingdom reaches harvest.
This principle becomes essential to understanding the Ages and the Kingdom of Fulness.
THE FEASTS REVEAL THE HARVEST PLAN OF GOD
The Lord built the harvest principle directly into Israel’s feast system.
LEVITICUS 23:14-17
The feasts were not merely religious observances.
The feasts were prophetic pictures.
The feasts revealed God’s plan.
The feasts revealed God’s administration.
The feasts revealed God’s harvest.
Three major feasts stand at the center of God’s redemptive purpose.
Passover.
Pentecost.
Tabernacles.
These reveal the three great harvest dimensions of God’s purpose.
PASSOVER: THE BEGINNING OF REDEMPTION
The first feast reveals deliverance.
EXODUS 12:13
“When I see the blood, I will pass over you.”
Passover reveals:
Redemption.
Deliverance.
Justification.
Salvation.
The Lamb.
The Blood.
The beginning.
The journey begins here.
No one enters God’s purpose apart from the Lamb.
No one enters God’s purpose apart from redemption.
Everything begins with Christ.
CHRIST OUR PASSOVER
The Apostle Paul identifies Christ with Passover.
1 CORINTHIANS 5:7
“For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us.”
The cross establishes redemption.
The cross establishes reconciliation.
The cross establishes access.
The cross establishes sonship.
Passover begins the journey.
Passover is not the end of the journey.
Passover is the doorway.
PENTECOST: THE FEAST OF IMPARTATION
After Passover came Pentecost.
Pentecost speaks of firstfruits.
Pentecost speaks of beginning harvest.
Pentecost speaks of impartation.
Pentecost speaks of formation.
ACTS 2:1
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come.”
The Spirit was poured out.
Power was given.
Gifts were given.
Ministry was given.
The Church Age was inaugurated.
The firstfruits appeared.
Yet Pentecost was never presented as the final harvest.
Pentecost was firstfruits.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
Paul uses this exact language.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
Notice carefully.
Firstfruits.
Not fullness.
Firstfruits.
Not final harvest.
Firstfruits imply something greater.
Firstfruits imply increase.
Firstfruits imply fulfillment.
Firstfruits imply harvest.
Pentecost introduces the firstfruits.
The Kingdom continues toward fullness.
TABERNACLES: THE FEAST OF FULLNESS
The final feast reveals harvest completed.
LEVITICUS 23:39
“When ye have gathered in the fruit of the land.”
Tabernacles is harvest language.
Tabernacles is fullness language.
Tabernacles is completion language.
Tabernacles is manifestation language.
Tabernacles speaks of dwelling.
Tabernacles speaks of habitation.
Tabernacles speaks of maturity.
Tabernacles speaks of fulfillment.
Passover begins.
Pentecost imparts.
Tabernacles manifests.
THE FEAST OF INGATHERING
The Lord gives another name for Tabernacles.
EXODUS 23:16
“The feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year.”
Notice the language.
Ingathering.
Harvest completed.
Fruit gathered.
Purpose fulfilled.
This feast points beyond beginning.
This feast points beyond firstfruits.
This feast points toward fullness.
THE KINGDOM MOVES TOWARD FULLNESS
The Kingdom itself follows this progression.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Till we all come… unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Notice the destination.
Fulness.
Maturity.
Perfect man.
Measure.
Stature.
Christ.
The Kingdom is moving toward fullness.
The Church is moving toward fullness.
The sons are moving toward fullness.
The harvest is moving toward fullness.
ROMANS 8 REVEALS THE TRANSITION
Romans 8 becomes the great bridge chapter.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
Notice the progression.
Firstfruits.
Groaning.
Waiting.
Manifestation.
Redemption.
The chapter begins with impartation.
The chapter ends with manifestation.
Pentecost is present.
Tabernacles is approaching.
The firstfruits have been given.
The harvest is awaited.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the same progression.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Present sonship.
Future unveiling.
Present firstfruits.
Future harvest.
The same progression appears again.
ZION AND THE HARVEST OF GOD
This is where Zion enters the story.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Planting speaks of harvest.
Planting speaks of growth.
Planting speaks of increase.
Planting speaks of fulfillment.
God plants the heavens.
God lays the foundations of the earth.
God forms Zion.
God manifests His purpose.
Zion becomes the harvest field of God’s Kingdom purpose.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
The harvest ultimately appears in sonship.
HEBREWS 2:10
“In bringing many sons unto glory.”
ROMANS 8:19
“The manifestation of the sons of God.”
The harvest is not merely numerical.
The harvest is maturity.
The harvest is sonship.
The harvest is manifestation.
The harvest is fullness.
The harvest is Christ formed in His people.
THE KINGDOM AGE AND THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES
The Kingdom Age is fullness language.
The Kingdom Age is harvest language.
The Kingdom Age is manifestation language.
The Kingdom Age is increase language.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of manifestation.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of sonship.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of harvest.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of fullness.
GOD ALL IN ALL
Every harvest moves toward one final destination.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
Passover points toward it.
Pentecost points toward it.
Tabernacles points toward it.
The Throne points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
The Kingdom Age points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The Kingdom of God unfolds according to harvest principles.
First the blade.
Then the ear.
Then the full corn in the ear.
Passover reveals redemption.
Pentecost reveals impartation and firstfruits.
Tabernacles reveals harvest and fullness.
Romans 8 stands as the great transition chapter between firstfruits and manifestation.
John reveals present sonship and future unveiling.
Zion emerges as the place where God plants the heavens and brings forth His harvest.
The Manifest Sons of God reveal the maturity of that harvest.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government and fullness throughout creation.
The harvest is moving toward one final objective:
That God may be all in all.
CHAPTER 6
FROM PENTECOST TO FULNESS
PENTECOST WAS NEVER THE FINAL DESTINATION
One of the greatest misunderstandings in the Church is the belief that Pentecost represents the final objective of God’s purpose.
Pentecost is glorious.
Pentecost is necessary.
Pentecost is powerful.
Pentecost is divine.
Yet Pentecost is not the final harvest.
Pentecost is the beginning of harvest.
Pentecost is firstfruits.
Pentecost is impartation.
Pentecost is preparation.
Pentecost is formation.
God never intended firstfruits to remain firstfruits.
God intended firstfruits to become harvest.
God intended impartation to become manifestation.
God intended seed to become fullness.
WHEN THE DAY OF PENTECOST WAS FULLY COME
Luke records a remarkable statement.
ACTS 2:1
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.”
The day arrived.
The Spirit was poured out.
The Church was empowered.
The firstfruits appeared.
The Kingdom entered a new administration.
Yet the Scriptures never present Pentecost as the conclusion of God’s purpose.
Pentecost began something.
Pentecost did not complete something.
THE SPIRIT GIVEN AS AN EARNEST
Paul reveals the purpose of Pentecost.
EPHESIANS 1:13-14
“After that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance.”
Notice the language.
Earnest.
Down payment.
Guarantee.
First installment.
Promise of something greater.
The Spirit was not given as the final harvest.
The Spirit was given as the earnest of the harvest.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
Paul uses even stronger language.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
Notice carefully.
Firstfruits.
Not fullness.
Firstfruits.
Not completion.
Firstfruits.
Not final harvest.
Firstfruits point beyond themselves.
Firstfruits testify that more is coming.
Firstfruits reveal the certainty of harvest.
THE CREATION STILL WAITS
If Pentecost completed everything, creation would no longer be waiting.
Yet Paul says:
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits.
The earth waits.
The nations wait.
The groaning creation waits.
Why?
Because impartation has occurred.
Manifestation is still unfolding.
The seed has been planted.
The harvest is still growing.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the same pattern.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
Present reality.
Present sonship.
Present relationship.
Present inheritance.
Yet John immediately continues:
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
There is still an unveiling ahead.
There is still a manifestation ahead.
There is still a fullness ahead.
There is still a harvest ahead.
THE PERFECT MAN
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Notice the language.
Perfect man.
Measure.
Stature.
Fulness.
Christ.
The goal is not merely receiving Christ.
The goal is the fulness of Christ.
The goal is maturity.
The goal is manifestation.
The goal is completion.
THAT WHICH IS IN PART
Paul describes the present age.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:9
“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.”
The Church Age has been an age of impartation.
An age of gifts.
An age of ministries.
An age of revelation.
An age of growth.
Yet Paul acknowledges:
“We know in part.”
THAT WHICH IS PERFECT IS COME
Paul then reveals another dimension.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:10
“But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”
Notice the contrast.
Part.
Fulness.
Partial.
Complete.
Beginning.
Harvest.
Impartation.
Manifestation.
The Kingdom moves toward fullness.
The Ages move toward fullness.
The purpose of God moves toward fullness.
THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES
The final feast reveals God’s objective.
LEVITICUS 23:39
“When ye have gathered in the fruit of the land.”
This is harvest language.
This is fullness language.
This is ingathering language.
This is completion language.
Passover speaks of redemption.
Pentecost speaks of firstfruits.
Tabernacles speaks of harvest.
THE FEAST OF INGATHERING
The Lord gives another name for Tabernacles.
EXODUS 23:16
“The feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year.”
The end of the harvest cycle.
The completion of the gathering.
The fulfillment of the process.
The maturity of the seed.
The fullness of what was planted.
ZION AND THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Now Isaiah begins to shine.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Planting implies growth.
Planting implies increase.
Planting implies harvest.
Planting implies fulfillment.
God plants before He harvests.
God imparts before He manifests.
God begins before He completes.
The heavens are planted.
The earth is established.
Zion is revealed.
The Kingdom advances toward fullness.
THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD
The great transition from Pentecost to fullness centers upon sonship.
ROMANS 8:19
“The manifestation of the sons of God.”
The sons exist.
Yet manifestation is awaited.
The inheritance exists.
Yet manifestation is awaited.
The Spirit has been given.
Yet manifestation is awaited.
The firstfruits have appeared.
Yet the harvest remains.
TO WIT, THE REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY
Paul identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
This is not merely spiritual language.
This is manifestation language.
This is sonship language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is fulfillment language.
This is harvest language.
The chapter moves from impartation toward manifestation.
From firstfruits toward harvest.
From Pentecost toward fullness.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government throughout creation.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom Age is not decline.
The Kingdom Age is increase.
The Kingdom Age is manifestation.
The Kingdom Age is fulfillment.
The Kingdom Age is harvest.
The Kingdom Age is fullness.
The Kingdom Age is the progressive outworking of what God planted from the beginning.
THE FULNESS OF TIMES
Paul reveals God’s ultimate objective.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
Notice:
Fulness.
Gathering.
Christ.
Everything moves toward fullness.
Everything moves toward manifestation.
Everything moves toward Christ.
Everything moves toward completion.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
Passover points toward it.
Pentecost points toward it.
Tabernacles points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
The Kingdom Age points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Pentecost was never the final destination.
Pentecost introduced firstfruits.
The Spirit was given as the earnest of the inheritance.
Creation still waits for manifestation.
John reveals present sonship and future unveiling.
Paul reveals movement from partial to fullness.
Tabernacles reveals harvest completed.
Isaiah reveals the planting of the heavens.
Romans 8 reveals the transition from impartation to manifestation.
The Manifest Sons of God stand at the center of that transition.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government and fullness.
Everything moves from seed to harvest, from firstfruits to ingathering, from Pentecost to fullness, until God’s eternal purpose reaches its consummation and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 7
THE KINGDOM AGE HIDDEN IN THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES
THE MOST OVERLOOKED FEAST IN SCRIPTURE
Many believers understand Passover.
Many believers celebrate Pentecost.
Many believers preach the cross.
Many believers teach the baptism of the Spirit.
Yet comparatively few understand the prophetic significance of the Feast of Tabernacles.
This is remarkable because Tabernacles was not a minor feast.
Tabernacles was the great harvest feast.
Tabernacles was the feast of ingathering.
Tabernacles was the feast of fullness.
Tabernacles was the feast of completion.
Tabernacles stood at the end of the harvest cycle.
Passover began the journey.
Pentecost advanced the journey.
Tabernacles revealed the fulfillment of the journey.
THE FEAST OF INGATHERING
The Lord gives Tabernacles another name.
EXODUS 23:16
“The feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field.”
Notice the language.
Ingathering.
Harvest completed.
Fruit gathered.
Purpose fulfilled.
Increase manifested.
The feast points beyond beginning.
The feast points beyond firstfruits.
The feast points toward fullness.
WHEN YE HAVE GATHERED IN THE FRUIT
The Lord further defines the feast.
LEVITICUS 23:39
“Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land.”
Again the emphasis is clear.
Harvest.
Fruit.
Completion.
Fulfillment.
Increase.
Maturity.
The feast celebrates what has fully matured.
The feast celebrates what has fully developed.
The feast celebrates what has reached its intended purpose.
FIRSTFRUITS ARE NOT THE HARVEST
One of the great principles of Scripture is that firstfruits are not the final harvest.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
The Spirit has been given.
The firstfruits have appeared.
The earnest has been received.
Yet Paul immediately reveals something more.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
The firstfruits point beyond themselves.
The firstfruits testify of harvest.
The beginning points toward fullness.
The seed points toward maturity.
Pentecost points toward Tabernacles.
THE KINGDOM GROWS UNTO FULLNESS
Jesus repeatedly taught the Kingdom through harvest language.
MARK 4:28
“First the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.”
Notice the progression.
First.
Then.
After that.
The Kingdom develops.
The Kingdom matures.
The Kingdom increases.
The Kingdom reaches fullness.
God does not skip process.
God does not skip growth.
God does not skip maturity.
The Kingdom advances according to divine order.
THE INCREASE OF HIS GOVERNMENT
The Kingdom Age is revealed through increase.
ISAIAH 9:6-7
“And the government shall be upon his shoulder.”
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Notice carefully.
Government.
Increase.
Peace.
Kingdom.
The Kingdom Age is not decline.
The Kingdom Age is increase.
The Kingdom Age is the progressive expansion of Christ’s government throughout creation.
The Kingdom Age is the manifestation of heavenly administration in the earth.
THY KINGDOM COME
The Lord Jesus taught believers how to pray.
MATTHEW 6:10
“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
The objective is not escape.
The objective is manifestation.
The objective is heavenly government expressed in earth.
The objective is divine administration becoming visible reality.
The objective is heaven ruling and earth manifesting.
This is Kingdom language.
This is Tabernacles language.
This is fullness language.
THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS WITHIN YOU
The Kingdom begins internally before it manifests externally.
LUKE 17:21
“The kingdom of God is within you.”
The seed is planted.
The life grows.
The nature develops.
The government increases.
The manifestation appears.
The Kingdom advances from inward reality toward outward expression.
ZION AND THE KINGDOM AGE
Isaiah reveals one of the great Kingdom passages.
ISAIAH 2:2-3
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains.”
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
Notice what proceeds from Zion.
The Word.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Kingdom.
Zion becomes the administrative center of God’s Kingdom purpose.
Zion becomes the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
THE MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD
Throughout Scripture mountains represent government.
Mountains represent kingdoms.
Mountains represent authority.
Mountains represent administration.
DANIEL 2:35
“And the stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.”
The Kingdom begins as a stone.
The Kingdom becomes a mountain.
The Kingdom fills the whole earth.
This is increase language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is fullness language.
This is Tabernacles language.
THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD
The Kingdom Age is directly connected to sonship.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits.
The earth waits.
The nations wait.
Why?
Because the Kingdom is moving toward manifestation.
The heavens have been planted.
The sons are being formed.
The harvest is approaching.
The Kingdom is advancing.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the same progression.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
Present reality.
Present sonship.
Present inheritance.
Yet:
“It doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
Present firstfruits.
Future manifestation.
Present beginning.
Future fullness.
This is Kingdom Age language.
This is Tabernacles language.
THE REDEMPTION OF THE BODY
Romans 8 identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
The chapter moves beyond impartation.
The chapter moves toward manifestation.
The chapter moves toward fulfillment.
The chapter moves toward harvest.
The chapter moves toward fullness.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Notice the objective.
Not partial.
Not beginning.
Not firstfruits.
Fulness.
Measure.
Stature.
Maturity.
Christ.
The Kingdom Age moves toward fullness.
The harvest moves toward fullness.
The sons move toward fullness.
The purpose moves toward fullness.
THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES AND THE DWELLING OF GOD
Tabernacles is not merely harvest.
Tabernacles is habitation.
Tabernacles is dwelling.
Tabernacles is God living among His people.
REVELATION 21:3
“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them.”
This is the language of fulfillment.
This is the language of completion.
This is the language of Kingdom maturity.
This is the language of God’s purpose reaching manifestation.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The Kingdom Age moves toward one destination.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
Every feast points toward this reality.
Passover points toward it.
Pentecost points toward it.
Tabernacles points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The Feast of Tabernacles is the feast of ingathering.
It is the feast of harvest completed.
It is the feast of fullness.
Firstfruits are not the harvest.
Pentecost is not the final destination.
The Kingdom grows from seed to maturity.
The government of Christ increases throughout creation.
Zion emerges as the mountain of God’s government.
The Manifest Sons of God reveal the maturity of the harvest.
The redemption of the body points toward fulfillment.
The fullness of Christ remains the objective.
The Feast of Tabernacles reveals the Kingdom Age hidden within God’s harvest plan and points toward the day when God’s dwelling is fully manifested among His people and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 8
THE INCREASE OF HIS GOVERNMENT
THE KINGDOM IS A GOVERNMENT
One of the greatest misunderstandings in Christianity is reducing the Kingdom of God to a place, an experience, or an event.
The Kingdom certainly includes a people.
The Kingdom certainly includes life.
The Kingdom certainly includes blessing.
Yet before the Kingdom is any of these things, the Kingdom is government.
The Kingdom reveals the rule of God.
The Kingdom reveals the administration of God.
The Kingdom reveals the authority of God.
The Kingdom reveals the purpose of God being carried out throughout creation.
To understand Zion, we must understand government.
To understand the Kingdom Age, we must understand government.
To understand the manifestation of the sons of God, we must understand government.
THE GOVERNMENT SHALL BE UPON HIS SHOULDER
Isaiah gives one of the clearest Kingdom prophecies in Scripture.
ISAIAH 9:6
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder.”
Notice carefully.
The prophecy does not emphasize religion.
The prophecy does not emphasize institutions.
The prophecy emphasizes government.
The Son comes carrying government.
The Kingdom is governmental from its very beginning.
OF THE INCREASE OF HIS GOVERNMENT
Isaiah continues.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
This may be one of the most important Kingdom verses in the Bible.
Notice the language.
Increase.
Government.
Peace.
No end.
The Kingdom does not decrease.
The Kingdom increases.
The government does not diminish.
The government increases.
The administration does not retreat.
The administration advances.
The Kingdom Age is the age of increase.
THE KINGDOM GROWS
Jesus taught the same principle.
MARK 4:30-32
“It is like a grain of mustard seed.”
“When it is sown… it groweth up.”
The Kingdom begins small.
The Kingdom grows.
The Kingdom expands.
The Kingdom matures.
The Kingdom fills.
Growth is built into the nature of the Kingdom.
Increase is built into the nature of the Kingdom.
Fulness is built into the nature of the Kingdom.
THE STONE BECOMES A MOUNTAIN
Daniel reveals the same pattern.
DANIEL 2:34-35
“A stone was cut out without hands.”
“The stone that smote the image became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth.”
Notice the progression.
Stone.
Mountain.
Whole earth.
Beginning.
Increase.
Fulness.
The Kingdom begins as a stone.
The Kingdom becomes a mountain.
The Kingdom fills the earth.
This is Kingdom Age language.
This is increase language.
This is fulness language.
THE HEAVENS DO RULE
All Kingdom increase originates from heavenly administration.
DANIEL 4:26
“The heavens do rule.”
The Kingdom is not built by human effort.
The Kingdom is not sustained by human wisdom.
The Kingdom proceeds from divine administration.
The Throne governs.
The Kingdom manifests.
The heavens rule.
The earth responds.
The increase originates from heaven.
The manifestation appears in earth.
THE THRONE AND THE KINGDOM
The Throne remains the source of all increase.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The Throne administers.
The Kingdom manifests.
The Throne governs.
The Kingdom expands.
The Throne decrees.
The Kingdom fulfills.
The Kingdom Age is simply the progressive manifestation of the administration flowing from the Throne.
ZION AND THE GOVERNMENT OF GOD
The Kingdom does not operate apart from Zion.
Zion becomes the mountain of divine government.
ISAIAH 2:2
“The mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains.”
Mountains throughout Scripture represent governments.
Mountains represent kingdoms.
Mountains represent authority.
Mountains represent administration.
Zion becomes the mountain of God’s government.
OUT OF ZION SHALL GO FORTH THE LAW
Isaiah continues.
ISAIAH 2:3
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
Notice what proceeds from Zion.
Law.
Word.
Government.
Authority.
Administration.
Kingdom.
Zion is not merely a place of worship.
Zion is a center of administration.
Zion becomes the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS WITHIN YOU
The increase begins inwardly.
LUKE 17:21
“The kingdom of God is within you.”
The Kingdom is planted.
The Kingdom grows.
The Kingdom matures.
The Kingdom manifests.
The government of God begins within the heart before it becomes visible in the earth.
The inward precedes the outward.
The heavens precede the earth.
The administration precedes the manifestation.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah 51 reveals the process.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The administration is established.
The government is formed.
The earth is transformed.
The Kingdom increases.
Zion appears.
This is the language of Kingdom expansion.
This is the language of Kingdom increase.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
The increase of government is connected to sonship.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits for manifestation.
Creation waits for maturity.
Creation waits for government.
Creation waits for sonship fully revealed.
The Kingdom increases through the manifestation of Christ in His people.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The Book of Revelation reveals Kingdom administration.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Notice the language.
Kings.
Priests.
Reign.
Government.
Administration.
Kingdom.
The Kingdom Age involves participation in divine administration.
It involves the increase of Christ’s government through His people.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The increase moves toward fulness.
The government moves toward fulness.
The Kingdom moves toward fulness.
The sons move toward fulness.
The purpose moves toward fulness.
Everything advances toward the full expression of Christ.
ALL THINGS GATHERED IN CHRIST
The final objective remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
This is the destination of the Kingdom.
This is the destination of Zion.
This is the destination of the Ages.
This is the destination of sonship.
This is the destination of government.
Everything moves toward Christ.
Everything moves toward unity.
Everything moves toward fulfillment.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The increase ultimately reaches its consummation.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Kingdom increases toward this reality.
The government increases toward this reality.
The sons are manifested toward this reality.
The fulness of Christ advances toward this reality.
The eternal purpose moves toward this reality.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The Kingdom of God is fundamentally governmental.
The Son comes carrying government.
The increase of His government never ends.
The Kingdom grows like a seed into a great harvest.
The stone becomes a mountain that fills the whole earth.
The heavens rule and the earth manifests.
The Throne remains the source of all Kingdom increase.
Zion becomes the mountain of God’s government.
The Kingdom begins within and expands outward.
The heavens are planted before the earth is established.
The Manifest Sons of God participate in the increase of Christ’s government.
Kings and priests reign with Christ.
The Kingdom moves toward the fulness of Christ, the gathering of all things in Him, and ultimately the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose when God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 9
MOUNT ZION AND THE GOVERNMENT OF GOD
ZION IS MORE THAN A MOUNTAIN
When many believers hear the word Zion, they immediately think of a natural mountain in Jerusalem.
While Mount Zion certainly existed as a physical location, the Scriptures progressively reveal a much greater reality.
Zion is not merely a mountain.
Zion is not merely a city.
Zion is not merely geography.
Zion becomes the scriptural picture of God’s government, God’s Kingdom, God’s administration, and God’s dwelling among His people.
To understand Zion properly, we must move beyond natural geography into divine purpose.
THE LORD HAS CHOSEN ZION
The Scriptures reveal that Zion occupies a unique place in God’s purpose.
PSALM 132:13
“For the Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.”
PSALM 132:14
“This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.”
Notice the language.
Chosen.
Habitation.
Rest.
Dwelling.
Presence.
Government.
Administration.
The Lord does not merely visit Zion.
The Lord chooses Zion.
The Lord dwells in Zion.
The Lord governs from Zion.
YET HAVE I SET MY KING UPON MY HOLY HILL OF ZION
Psalm 2 reveals the governmental nature of Zion.
PSALM 2:6
“Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.”
Notice the connection.
King.
Government.
Authority.
Rule.
Kingdom.
Zion is introduced as the place of divine government.
The King is enthroned in Zion.
The Kingdom proceeds from Zion.
The authority of Christ is associated with Zion.
From the very beginning Zion carries governmental language.
THE MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD’S HOUSE
Isaiah expands the vision.
ISAIAH 2:2
“The mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains.”
Mountains throughout Scripture symbolize kingdoms and governments.
Babylon was a mountain.
Kingdoms are mountains.
Empires are mountains.
Governments are mountains.
Yet Isaiah sees one mountain elevated above every other mountain.
The government of God above every government of man.
The Kingdom of God above every kingdom of man.
The authority of Christ above every authority of man.
This mountain is Zion.
OUT OF ZION SHALL GO FORTH THE LAW
Isaiah continues.
ISAIAH 2:3
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
Notice what proceeds from Zion.
The Word.
Government.
Authority.
Administration.
Kingdom.
The law proceeds.
The Word proceeds.
The government proceeds.
Why?
Because Zion is the administrative center of God’s Kingdom.
Zion is where heaven rules and earth manifests.
THE THRONE AND ZION
Zion never operates independently of the Throne.
The Throne administers.
Zion manifests.
The Throne governs.
Zion expresses.
The Throne rules.
Zion reveals that rule.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The Throne remains the source.
Zion becomes the manifestation.
The heavens rule.
The earth manifests.
The administration proceeds.
The Kingdom appears.
ZION AND THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah reveals one of the greatest Kingdom passages in Scripture.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Notice the order.
The heavens are planted.
The earth is established.
Then Zion appears.
The administration precedes the manifestation.
Government precedes expression.
The Throne precedes the Kingdom.
The heavens precede the earth.
Zion becomes the place where heavenly administration is manifested in earthly reality.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews moves Zion beyond geography.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem.”
Notice carefully.
Not:
Ye shall come.
Not:
Ye might come.
Not:
After death ye shall come.
But:
Ye are come.
This is present reality.
This is Kingdom reality.
This is heavenly reality.
This is governmental reality.
The Zion of Hebrews is far larger than a natural mountain.
THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING
Jesus Himself identifies Zion with divine government.
MATTHEW 5:35
“For it is the city of the great King.”
The King.
The Kingdom.
The government.
The city.
The administration.
Everything converges in Zion.
THE LAMB STANDING ON MOUNT ZION
The Book of Revelation reveals Zion at the center of Kingdom administration.
REVELATION 14:1
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion.”
Notice the imagery.
The Lamb.
Mount Zion.
Government.
Authority.
Kingdom.
Administration.
A people gathered unto the Lamb.
A people identified with His purpose.
A people participating in His Kingdom.
THE KINGDOM AGE AND MOUNT ZION
The Kingdom Age cannot be separated from Zion.
Why?
Because Zion is governmental language.
The Kingdom Age is governmental language.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government.
Zion reveals the mountain of that government.
The Kingdom increases.
The mountain rises.
The administration expands.
The purpose advances.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
The government of God ultimately appears through mature sonship.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits for manifestation.
Creation waits for maturity.
Creation waits for government.
Creation waits for the unveiling of what God has formed.
Zion becomes the mountain from which divine administration is manifested through a mature people.
KINGS AND PRIESTS UNTO GOD
The Kingdom Age is not passive.
The Kingdom Age involves participation in divine government.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Kings.
Priests.
Government.
Administration.
Kingdom.
Authority.
The Kingdom of God is not merely observed.
The Kingdom of God is administered.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Zion moves toward fullness.
The Kingdom moves toward fullness.
The sons move toward fullness.
The government moves toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full manifestation of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains the same.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
The Kingdom Age points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Zion is more than a mountain.
Zion is more than geography.
Zion is the mountain of God’s government.
The King is established in Zion.
The Word proceeds from Zion.
The law proceeds from Zion.
The Throne administers through Zion.
The heavens are planted and the earth is established through Zion.
The Zion of Hebrews is a present heavenly reality.
The Lamb stands upon Mount Zion.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government through Zion.
The Manifest Sons of God become instruments of that administration.
Zion stands as the mountain of God’s Kingdom purpose, the place where heaven rules and earth manifests, until the fulness of Christ fills all things and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 10
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
THE GREAT DECLARATION OF SONSHIP
One of the most profound statements in all of Scripture is found in the writings of John.
1 JOHN 3:2
> “Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
This is not future language.
This is present language.
This is not a promise waiting to happen.
This is a reality already established in Christ.
John does not say:
You may become sons.
He does not say:
You might become sons.
He says:
Now are we the sons of God.”
The question is no longer whether sonship exists.
The question becomes:
What does sonship ultimately produce?
What is God’s purpose in sonship?
What is the destination of sonship?
This chapter begins to answer those questions.
THE PURPOSE OF SONSHIP
The purpose of God has always centered upon sonship.
ROMANS 8:29
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son.”
Notice the objective.
Conformed.
Image.
Son.
The purpose is not merely forgiveness.
The purpose is not merely redemption.
The purpose is conformity to Christ.
The purpose is sonship.
The purpose is manifestation.
The purpose is maturity.
The purpose is fullness.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The writer of Hebrews reveals God’s intention.
HEBREWS 2:10
“For it became him… in bringing many sons unto glory.”
Notice carefully.
Many sons.
Not one Son only.
Many sons.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many sons reveal the increase.
The Firstborn reveals the prototype.
The many sons reveal the harvest.
God’s purpose has always been corporate.
God’s purpose has always been family.
God’s purpose has always been sonship.
YE ARE ALL THE CHILDREN OF GOD
Paul declares the reality of sonship.
GALATIANS 3:26
“For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.”
Sonship is not earned.
Sonship is received.
Sonship is established in Christ.
Sonship proceeds from union with Christ.
The believer enters sonship through Christ.
Yet the Scriptures reveal something beyond initial sonship.
The Scriptures reveal manifestation.
IT DOTH NOT YET APPEAR
John continues his remarkable statement.
1 JOHN 3:2
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
This is one of the most important statements in the New Testament.
Now are we sons.
Yet it does not yet appear.
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Present identity.
Future unveiling.
Present firstfruits.
Future harvest.
John reveals both dimensions simultaneously.
THE SAME PATTERN IN ROMANS 8
Paul reveals the identical truth.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Notice carefully.
The sons already exist.
Yet manifestation is awaited.
The sons are present.
Yet creation waits.
The inheritance is real.
Yet manifestation continues.
Romans and John are speaking the same language.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF SONSHIP
Paul reveals another key.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
The Spirit has been given.
The inheritance has begun.
The firstfruits have appeared.
Yet firstfruits are not harvest.
Firstfruits point toward fulfillment.
Firstfruits point toward maturity.
Firstfruits point toward manifestation.
The journey continues.
THE ADOPTION
Paul identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
This is sonship language.
This is manifestation language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is fullness language.
The chapter moves beyond impartation.
The chapter moves toward manifestation.
The chapter moves beyond beginning.
The chapter moves toward harvest.
CREATION IS WAITING
The entire creation has become involved in this process.
ROMANS 8:22
“For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.”
ROMANS 8:19
“The earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Creation waits.
The nations wait.
The earth waits.
The groaning creation waits.
Why?
Because sonship has implications far beyond individual salvation.
The manifestation of sonship affects creation itself.
THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN
Christ remains the pattern.
ROMANS 8:29
“That he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
The Firstborn comes first.
The many brethren follow.
The Head comes first.
The Body follows.
The Seed comes first.
The Harvest follows.
Christ is the pattern.
The sons follow the pattern.
FROM PENTECOST TO FULNESS
This chapter sits at the center of the transition.
Pentecost reveals impartation.
Pentecost reveals firstfruits.
Pentecost reveals beginning.
Yet sonship moves beyond firstfruits.
Sonship moves toward manifestation.
Sonship moves toward maturity.
Sonship moves toward fulfillment.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Notice the destination.
Fulness.
Measure.
Stature.
Christ.
The sons are moving toward fullness.
THE PERFECT MAN
Paul reveals the same objective.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto a perfect man.”
The purpose of sonship is maturity.
The purpose of sonship is growth.
The purpose of sonship is conformity to Christ.
The purpose of sonship is manifestation.
The purpose of sonship is fullness.
ZION AND SONSHIP
Isaiah connects sonship to Zion.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Notice the relationship.
The heavens are planted.
The earth is established.
A people emerge.
Zion appears.
Sonship and Zion become inseparable.
God forms a people.
God establishes a Kingdom.
God reveals a corporate expression of His purpose.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews reveals the corporate reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God.”
The sons are not moving toward isolation.
The sons are moving toward corporate identity.
The sons are moving toward Zion.
The sons are moving toward Kingdom administration.
The sons are moving toward divine purpose.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The mature expression of sonship includes Kingdom administration.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Sonship.
Kingdom.
Administration.
Government.
Authority.
Purpose.
The mature son becomes a participant in divine administration.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The manifestation of sonship becomes central to the Kingdom Age.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom increases.
The government increases.
The manifestation increases.
The maturity increases.
The fullness increases.
The purpose advances.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 1:23
“The fulness of him that filleth all in all.”
The sons move toward fullness.
The Kingdom moves toward fullness.
Zion moves toward fullness.
Creation moves toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains the same.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The sons point toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The manifestation points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
John declares:
“Now are we the sons of God.”
Sonship is a present reality.
Yet:
“It doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
The Scriptures reveal a progression from sonship to manifestation.
Romans 8 reveals creation waiting for that manifestation.
The Spirit is given as firstfruits.
The redemption of the body remains the object of expectation.
Christ stands as the Firstborn among many brethren.
The sons move from Pentecostal firstfruits toward Kingdom fullness.
Zion becomes the corporate expression of God’s people.
The mature sons participate in Kingdom administration as kings and priests.
The manifestation of sonship becomes central to the Kingdom Age and the increase of Christ’s government until the fullness of Christ fills all things and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 11
ROMANS 8: THE GREAT TRANSITION CHAPTER
THE HINGE OF THE AGES
There are certain chapters in Scripture that function as divine hinges.
They connect one realm to another.
They connect one administration to another.
They connect one stage of God’s purpose to another.
Romans 8 is one of those chapters.
Romans 8 stands at the crossroads between impartation and manifestation.
Romans 8 stands between firstfruits and harvest.
Romans 8 stands between Pentecost and Fulness.
Romans 8 stands between present sonship and manifested sonship.
Romans 8 stands between the Spirit given and the redemption of the body.
Romans 8 may be one of the most important Kingdom chapters in all of Scripture.
NO CONDEMNATION IN CHRIST
The chapter begins with a glorious declaration.
ROMANS 8:1
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.”
The foundation is established.
Redemption is accomplished.
Justification is secured.
Reconciliation is complete.
The believer stands in Christ.
The journey begins with what Christ has already accomplished.
This is Passover language.
This is redemption language.
This is finished work language.
THE LAW OF THE SPIRIT OF LIFE
Paul immediately introduces a higher administration.
ROMANS 8:2
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.”
Notice the language.
Law.
Spirit.
Life.
Administration.
Government.
Kingdom.
A new administration has entered the earth.
A new government has appeared.
A new order has begun.
The Spirit introduces Kingdom life.
AS MANY AS ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT
Paul then moves into sonship.
ROMANS 8:14
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”
Notice the progression.
Spirit.
Sonship.
Government.
Kingdom.
The Spirit forms sons.
The Spirit prepares sons.
The Spirit matures sons.
The Spirit leads sons.
The purpose of the Spirit is not merely experience.
The purpose of the Spirit is sonship.
THE SPIRIT OF ADOPTION
Paul continues.
ROMANS 8:15
“Ye have received the Spirit of adoption.”
Notice carefully.
The Spirit introduces adoption.
The Spirit introduces inheritance.
The Spirit introduces family.
The Spirit introduces sonship.
The Spirit becomes the earnest of a greater manifestation.
HEIRS OF GOD
Paul reveals the inheritance.
ROMANS 8:17
“And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.”
The sons are heirs.
The inheritance belongs to the sons.
The Kingdom belongs to the sons.
The purpose belongs to the sons.
The government belongs to the sons.
The future manifestation belongs to the sons.
THE SUFFERINGS OF THIS PRESENT TIME
Paul then shifts the focus.
ROMANS 8:18
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Notice the language.
Present time.
Future glory.
Present process.
Future manifestation.
Present formation.
Future unveiling.
The chapter begins to move from impartation toward manifestation.
THE EARNEST EXPECTATION OF CREATION
Now we arrive at one of the most important Kingdom passages in Scripture.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Notice what creation is waiting for.
Not another denomination.
Not another movement.
Not another program.
Not another institution.
Creation waits for manifestation.
Creation waits for sonship revealed.
Creation waits for maturity.
Creation waits for harvest.
Creation waits for fullness.
THE CREATION WAS SUBJECTED TO VANITY
Paul explains why creation waits.
ROMANS 8:20
“For the creature was made subject to vanity.”
Creation entered bondage.
Creation entered corruption.
Creation entered frustration.
Creation entered limitation.
Yet God did not abandon creation.
God subjected creation in hope.
The story is moving toward restoration.
The story is moving toward manifestation.
THE CREATION SHALL BE DELIVERED
Paul reveals the promise.
ROMANS 8:21
“Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.”
Notice the connection.
Manifested sons.
Liberated creation.
Glorious liberty.
Kingdom fulfillment.
The manifestation of sonship affects creation itself.
The Kingdom is not merely individual.
The Kingdom is cosmic.
The Kingdom is restorative.
The Kingdom touches creation.
THE WHOLE CREATION GROANETH
Paul intensifies the language.
ROMANS 8:22
“For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.”
The earth groans.
Creation groans.
The nations groan.
Humanity groans.
Everything waits for fulfillment.
Everything waits for manifestation.
Everything waits for what God has promised.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
Now Paul introduces one of the most important phrases in the chapter.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
Notice carefully.
Firstfruits.
Not harvest.
Firstfruits.
Not fullness.
Firstfruits imply something greater.
Firstfruits imply increase.
Firstfruits imply manifestation.
Firstfruits imply harvest.
This is why Romans 8 becomes a transition chapter.
WAITING FOR THE ADOPTION
Paul continues.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption.”
The sons already exist.
Yet adoption remains in view.
The inheritance already exists.
Yet manifestation remains in view.
The Spirit has been given.
Yet fulfillment remains in view.
This is transition language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is fullness language.
TO WIT, THE REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY
Paul identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
This statement stands at the center of Kingdom expectation.
This is manifestation language.
This is adoption language.
This is sonship language.
This is fullness language.
This is one of the clearest Kingdom Age passages in the New Testament.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the exact same progression.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
Present reality.
Yet John continues:
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
Present sonship.
Future manifestation.
Present firstfruits.
Future harvest.
The same pattern appears again.
FROM PENTECOST TO FULNESS
Romans 8 stands directly between Pentecost and Tabernacles.
Pentecost introduces the Spirit.
Pentecost introduces firstfruits.
Pentecost introduces formation.
Romans 8 reveals groaning.
Romans 8 reveals expectation.
Romans 8 reveals transition.
Romans 8 reveals manifestation.
Romans 8 points toward fullness.
ZION AND THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah’s prophecy begins to shine brightly.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The sons are formed.
The earth is prepared.
Zion emerges.
The Kingdom advances.
Manifestation unfolds.
The prophecy and Romans 8 begin to converge.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age represents increase.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Romans 8 reveals the people through whom that increase is manifested.
The Kingdom advances.
The government increases.
The sons mature.
The harvest approaches.
The purpose unfolds.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Romans 8 is moving toward this reality.
The sons are moving toward this reality.
The Kingdom is moving toward this reality.
Creation is moving toward this reality.
Everything is moving toward fullness.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The chapter ultimately points toward the same consummation found throughout Scripture.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Spirit points toward it.
The sons point toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
Creation points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Romans 8 is the great transition chapter of Scripture.
The chapter begins with redemption.
The chapter introduces the Spirit.
The chapter reveals sonship.
The chapter reveals inheritance.
The chapter reveals groaning creation.
The chapter reveals the manifestation of the sons of God.
The chapter reveals the firstfruits of the Spirit.
The chapter reveals the adoption.
The chapter reveals the redemption of the body.
Romans 8 stands between Pentecost and Fulness.
It stands between impartation and manifestation.
It stands between firstfruits and harvest.
It stands between present sonship and manifested sonship.
It stands as one of the clearest Kingdom Age chapters in the Bible, revealing God’s purpose to bring creation into liberty, manifest His sons, establish His Kingdom, reveal His fulness, and ultimately become all in all.
CHAPTER 12
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
CREATION IS WAITING
One of the most remarkable statements in all of Scripture is found in Romans 8.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
This verse immediately raises an important question.
What is creation waiting for?
Paul does not say creation is waiting for more information.
Paul does not say creation is waiting for another denomination.
Paul does not say creation is waiting for another movement.
Paul does not say creation is waiting for another theological system.
Creation is waiting for manifestation.
Creation is waiting for sons.
Creation is waiting for maturity.
Creation is waiting for the unveiling of what God has been forming throughout the ages.
THE SONS ALREADY EXIST
The first thing we must understand is that Paul is not speaking about the creation of sons.
He is speaking about the manifestation of sons.
The sons already exist.
ROMANS 8:14
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”
The sons are already sons.
The issue is manifestation.
The issue is unveiling.
The issue is maturity.
The issue is fulfillment.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John confirms the same truth.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
The sons exist now.
The sons are real now.
The sons belong to God now.
The sons possess life now.
The sons possess inheritance now.
Yet John immediately adds:
1 JOHN 3:2
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
There is present reality.
There is future manifestation.
There is present sonship.
There is future unveiling.
This is exactly the language of Romans 8.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The purpose of God has always involved sonship.
HEBREWS 2:10
“In bringing many sons unto glory.”
Notice:
Many sons.
Not one Son only.
Many sons.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many sons reveal the increase.
The Seed reveals the pattern.
The harvest reveals the increase.
God’s purpose has always been corporate.
THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN
Christ remains the model.
ROMANS 8:29
“That he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
Christ is the Firstborn.
The sons follow.
Christ is the pattern.
The sons reveal the increase.
Christ is the beginning.
The sons reveal the harvest.
Everything proceeds from Christ.
Everything moves toward conformity to Christ.
CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON
The purpose of sonship is revealed.
ROMANS 8:29
“To be conformed to the image of his Son.”
The objective is not merely conversion.
The objective is transformation.
The objective is conformity.
The objective is maturity.
The objective is manifestation.
The objective is Christ revealed.
THE CREATION WAS SUBJECTED TO VANITY
Paul explains why manifestation is necessary.
ROMANS 8:20
“For the creature was made subject to vanity.”
Creation entered corruption.
Creation entered bondage.
Creation entered limitation.
Creation entered frustration.
Yet God subjected creation in hope.
The story does not end in vanity.
The story moves toward restoration.
CREATION SHALL BE DELIVERED
The promise is extraordinary.
ROMANS 8:21
“Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.”
Notice the connection.
Manifested sons.
Liberated creation.
Glorious liberty.
Kingdom fulfillment.
The manifestation of sonship affects creation itself.
The purpose extends beyond individuals.
The purpose extends into creation.
THE WHOLE CREATION GROANETH
Paul intensifies the language.
ROMANS 8:22
“The whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.”
Creation groans.
The nations groan.
Humanity groans.
The earth groans.
Why?
Because creation senses that something remains unfinished.
Something remains unrevealed.
Something remains unmanifested.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
Paul then introduces the bridge between Pentecost and Fulness.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
Notice carefully.
Firstfruits.
Not harvest.
Firstfruits.
Not completion.
Firstfruits point toward fulfillment.
Firstfruits point toward manifestation.
Firstfruits point toward harvest.
This is Kingdom progression.
WAITING FOR THE ADOPTION
Paul continues.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption.”
The sons exist.
Yet something remains ahead.
The inheritance exists.
Yet something remains ahead.
The Spirit has been given.
Yet something remains ahead.
The firstfruits have appeared.
Yet the harvest remains.
TO WIT, THE REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY
Paul identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
This is manifestation language.
This is sonship language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is Fulness language.
This is one of the great transition passages of Scripture.
THE MANIFEST SONS AND ZION
The Manifest Sons of God cannot be separated from Zion.
Isaiah reveals the process.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
Notice the progression.
The heavens are planted.
The earth is established.
A people emerge.
Zion appears.
The Manifest Sons become part of the unfolding purpose of God through Zion.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews reveals the corporate reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God.”
The sons are not moving toward isolation.
The sons are moving toward corporate identity.
The sons are moving toward Kingdom administration.
The sons are moving toward Zion.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The mature expression of sonship includes participation in Kingdom government.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Kings.
Priests.
Government.
Administration.
Kingdom.
Authority.
The mature sons participate in divine administration.
The mature sons reveal Kingdom government.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The manifestation of the sons becomes central to the Kingdom Age.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom increases.
The government increases.
The manifestation increases.
The maturity increases.
The purpose advances.
The sons become visible expressions of the increase of Christ’s government.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The sons move toward fullness.
The Kingdom moves toward fullness.
Zion moves toward fullness.
Creation moves toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The redemption of the body points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Romans 8 reveals creation waiting for the manifestation of the sons of God.
The sons already exist.
The issue is manifestation.
John confirms:
“Now are we the sons of God.”
Yet:
“It doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many sons reveal the harvest.
Creation waits for liberty.
The Spirit has been given as firstfruits.
The redemption of the body remains the object of expectation.
The Manifest Sons emerge through Zion as participants in Kingdom administration.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government through mature sonship.
The purpose of God moves toward the fulness of Christ, the liberation of creation, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose when God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 13
TO WIT, THE REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY
THE OBJECT OF CREATION’S EXPECTATION
Throughout Romans 8, Paul progressively builds toward a remarkable conclusion.
He speaks of sonship.
He speaks of inheritance.
He speaks of creation groaning.
He speaks of the manifestation of the sons of God.
Then he identifies the specific object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
This statement stands at the center of Kingdom expectation.
This statement stands at the center of manifestation.
This statement stands at the center of sonship.
This statement stands at the center of Fulness.
Paul does not leave the matter vague.
He identifies the object directly.
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
THE BODY WAS INCLUDED IN REDEMPTION
Many believers understand the redemption of the spirit.
Many understand forgiveness.
Many understand justification.
Many understand reconciliation.
Yet Paul reveals that redemption extends further.
Redemption reaches the body.
1 CORINTHIANS 6:20
“For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.”
Notice carefully.
Not merely your spirit.
Not merely your soul.
Your body.
The body was included in God’s purpose.
The body was included in redemption.
The body was included in Christ’s victory.
THE SPIRIT IS THE EARNEST
Paul explains the present reality.
EPHESIANS 1:13-14
“Ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance.”
The Spirit is the earnest.
The Spirit is the guarantee.
The Spirit is the first installment.
The Spirit is the firstfruits.
The Spirit points toward something greater.
The Spirit points toward fulfillment.
The Spirit points toward manifestation.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE SPIRIT
Romans 8 repeats the same truth.
ROMANS 8:23
“We ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit.”
Notice again.
Firstfruits.
Not harvest.
Firstfruits.
Not completion.
Firstfruits imply fulfillment.
Firstfruits imply increase.
Firstfruits imply harvest.
Paul is describing a people living between beginning and fulfillment.
Between impartation and manifestation.
Between Pentecost and Fulness.
THE ADOPTION
Paul uses remarkable language.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption.”
At first glance this appears strange.
Earlier Paul already declared:
ROMANS 8:15
“Ye have received the Spirit of adoption.”
How can believers possess adoption and yet wait for adoption?
The answer is found in the distinction between present reality and future manifestation.
The sons exist.
The inheritance exists.
The Spirit exists.
Yet manifestation remains ahead.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the same pattern.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
The reality is present.
The sonship is present.
The relationship is present.
Yet John immediately says:
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
There is present sonship.
There is future manifestation.
There is present firstfruits.
There is future harvest.
There is present inheritance.
There is future unveiling.
THE REDEMPTION OF THE BODY
Paul now identifies the specific object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
This is not merely legal language.
This is manifestation language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is Fulness language.
This is sonship language.
The redemption secured through Christ reaches the body.
The purpose of God includes the body.
The victory of Christ includes the body.
THIS MORTAL SHALL PUT ON IMMORTALITY
Paul expands this truth in Corinthians.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:51-53
“We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed.”
“For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”
Notice the language.
Changed.
Incorruption.
Immortality.
Transformation.
Manifestation.
Fulfillment.
Paul is revealing the ultimate triumph of life over death.
DEATH IS THE LAST ENEMY
Paul identifies the final enemy.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:26
“The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.”
The Kingdom is moving toward victory.
The Kingdom is moving toward manifestation.
The Kingdom is moving toward fulfillment.
The Kingdom is moving toward life.
Death is not the goal.
Life is the goal.
Corruption is not the goal.
Incorruption is the goal.
Mortality is not the goal.
Immortality is the goal.
JESUS IS THE RESURRECTION
The entire purpose centers upon Christ.
JOHN 11:25
“I am the resurrection, and the life.”
Notice carefully.
Jesus did not merely bring resurrection.
Jesus is resurrection.
Jesus did not merely bring life.
Jesus is life.
Everything proceeds from Him.
Everything points to Him.
Everything finds fulfillment in Him.
THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THEM THAT SLEPT
Christ stands as the pattern.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:20
“But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.”
Again we see firstfruits language.
Firstfruits imply harvest.
Firstfruits imply increase.
Firstfruits imply fulfillment.
Christ is the Firstfruits.
The harvest follows.
Christ is the Beginning.
The increase follows.
EVERY MAN IN HIS OWN ORDER
Paul reveals divine progression.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:23
“But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s.”
Notice the language.
Order.
Progression.
Administration.
Purpose.
God works according to order.
God works according to increase.
God works according to fulfillment.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
Romans 8 joins this discussion.
ROMANS 8:19
“The earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Manifestation.
Sonship.
Redemption.
Transformation.
Kingdom.
Fulness.
These themes are inseparable.
The redemption of the body is connected to manifested sonship.
The redemption of the body is connected to Kingdom fulfillment.
ZION AND THE REDEMPTION OF THE BODY
Isaiah’s prophecy continues to unfold.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The sons are formed.
The Kingdom advances.
The earth is established.
The purpose unfolds.
Zion becomes the corporate vessel through which God’s purpose advances toward manifestation.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews reveals the present Kingdom reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
The sons belong to Zion.
The inheritance belongs to Zion.
The Kingdom belongs to Zion.
The administration belongs to Zion.
The purpose belongs to Zion.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The redemption of the body fits naturally within Kingdom Age language.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom increases.
Life increases.
Manifestation increases.
Fulness increases.
The purpose advances.
The Kingdom Age becomes the progressive revelation of Christ’s victory throughout creation.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The redemption of the body points toward fullness.
Sonship points toward fullness.
The Kingdom points toward fullness.
Zion points toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The redemption of the body points toward it.
The manifestation of the sons points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Romans 8 identifies the redemption of the body as the object of expectation.
The Spirit has been given as firstfruits.
The sons already exist.
Yet manifestation remains ahead.
John reveals present sonship and future unveiling.
Paul reveals mortality giving way to immortality.
Christ stands as the Firstfruits and pattern of the harvest.
The manifestation of the sons of God is connected to the redemption of the body.
Zion becomes the corporate vessel through which God’s purpose advances.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government and life throughout creation.
Everything moves toward the fulness of Christ, the defeat of death, the manifestation of life, and the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose until God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 14
THE KING-PRIEST OF SALEM
A PRIEST APPEARS WITHOUT WARNING
As we move deeper into the revelation of Zion, we arrive at one of the most mysterious figures in all of Scripture.
His appearance is brief.
His words are few.
His influence is enormous.
His name is Melchizedek.
Suddenly, without genealogy, without introduction, and without explanation, he appears in the biblical record.
GENESIS 14:18
“And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.”
This is the first mention of Melchizedek.
Yet this brief appearance would echo throughout the entire Bible.
David would speak of him.
The writer of Hebrews would explain him.
The priesthood of Christ would be connected to him.
The Kingdom of God would be connected to him.
Zion would be connected to him.
The Manifest Sons of God would ultimately be connected to him.
KING OF SALEM
Notice the first description.
GENESIS 14:18
“Melchizedek king of Salem.”
He is a king.
Government appears immediately.
Administration appears immediately.
Authority appears immediately.
Kingdom language appears immediately.
The first thing Scripture emphasizes is not sacrifice.
The first thing Scripture emphasizes is government.
Melchizedek is a king.
PRIEST OF THE MOST HIGH GOD
The second description follows immediately.
GENESIS 14:18
“And he was the priest of the most high God.”
Now we discover something remarkable.
Melchizedek is both:
King.
Priest.
Government and priesthood are joined together.
Authority and ministry are joined together.
Administration and worship are joined together.
In Melchizedek we see the first biblical picture of the King-Priest.
MELCHIZEDEK AND RIGHTEOUSNESS
The writer of Hebrews explains the meaning of his name.
HEBREWS 7:2
“First being by interpretation King of righteousness.”
Melchizedek means:
King of Righteousness.
Righteousness governs his kingdom.
Righteousness governs his administration.
Righteousness governs his authority.
This immediately points us toward Christ.
KING OF PEACE
Hebrews continues.
HEBREWS 7:2
“And after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace.”
Now two great Kingdom realities appear.
Righteousness.
Peace.
Government.
Peace.
Kingdom.
Righteousness.
This harmonizes perfectly with Isaiah’s Kingdom prophecy.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Melchizedek order carries Kingdom language from the very beginning.
BREAD AND WINE
One of the most remarkable details appears in Genesis.
GENESIS 14:18
“Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine.”
Notice what he brings.
Bread.
Wine.
Not weapons.
Not armies.
Not earthly power.
Bread and wine.
These symbols will later become associated with Christ Himself.
MATTHEW 26:26-28
“Jesus took bread.”
“And he took the cup.”
The ministry of Melchizedek points toward Christ.
The priesthood of Melchizedek points toward Christ.
The Kingdom of Melchizedek points toward Christ.
THOU ART A PRIEST FOR EVER
The next great appearance of Melchizedek comes through David.
PSALM 110:4
“The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
This is astonishing.
Hundreds of years after Genesis, Melchizedek reappears.
David sees a future priesthood.
A permanent priesthood.
An eternal priesthood.
A priesthood superior to Levi.
A priesthood connected to Messiah.
THE LORD SAID UNTO MY LORD
Notice where Psalm 110 begins.
PSALM 110:1
“The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand.”
The chapter begins with a Throne.
The chapter begins with government.
The chapter begins with Kingdom administration.
Then it introduces Melchizedek.
The Throne and Melchizedek are connected.
Government and priesthood are connected.
Kingdom and priesthood are connected.
CHRIST THE MELCHIZEDEK PRIEST
The writer of Hebrews removes all doubt.
HEBREWS 5:5-6
“Thou art my Son.”
“Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
Christ is the fulfillment.
Christ is the reality.
Christ is the eternal King-Priest.
Christ unites government and priesthood.
Christ unites authority and ministry.
Christ unites Kingdom and worship.
A BETTER PRIESTHOOD
Hebrews explains why this priesthood matters.
HEBREWS 7:11
“If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood.”
Notice the word:
Perfection.
Fulness.
Completion.
The writer immediately points beyond Levi.
Beyond the old order.
Beyond the former administration.
Toward Melchizedek.
Toward Christ.
Toward a better priesthood.
THE POWER OF AN ENDLESS LIFE
The foundation of this priesthood is extraordinary.
HEBREWS 7:16
“After the power of an endless life.”
Not merely ritual.
Not merely ceremony.
Not merely lineage.
Endless life.
Life becomes the foundation of administration.
Life becomes the foundation of priesthood.
Life becomes the foundation of Kingdom government.
MELCHIZEDEK AND ZION
The connection now begins to emerge.
Psalm 110 joins them together.
PSALM 110:2
“The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion.”
PSALM 110:4
“Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
In the same chapter we find:
The Throne.
Zion.
Government.
Melchizedek.
Priesthood.
Kingdom.
These realities are not separate.
They are interconnected.
THE KINGDOM AGE AND MELCHIZEDEK
The Kingdom Age cannot be fully understood through Levitical language.
The Kingdom Age speaks the language of Melchizedek.
King-Priest language.
Government language.
Administration language.
Life language.
Fulness language.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests.”
Notice the language.
Kings.
Priests.
Not merely priests.
Not merely kings.
Kings and priests.
The very pattern revealed in Melchizedek.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews brings all these themes together.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
The same epistle that explains Melchizedek reveals Zion.
The same epistle that reveals the eternal priesthood reveals Mount Zion.
This is not accidental.
The Melchizedek order and Zion belong together.
THE MANIFEST SONS AND THE MELCHIZEDEK ORDER
Romans reveals manifested sonship.
ROMANS 8:19
“The manifestation of the sons of God.”
Revelation reveals kings and priests.
REVELATION 5:10
“Kings and priests.”
Hebrews reveals Melchizedek.
HEBREWS 7:17
“A priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
The themes begin to converge.
Sonship.
Kingdom.
Priesthood.
Government.
Zion.
Administration.
Fulness.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Everything moves toward one destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The Melchizedek order points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Melchizedek points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Melchizedek appears as the King-Priest of Salem.
He reveals righteousness and peace.
He brings bread and wine.
David prophesies an eternal priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.
Hebrews reveals Christ as the fulfillment of that priesthood.
The Melchizedek order is founded upon the power of an endless life.
Psalm 110 connects Melchizedek, Zion, the Throne, and Kingdom government.
The Kingdom Age speaks the language of kings and priests.
The Manifest Sons of God, Mount Zion, and the Melchizedek priesthood converge within God’s eternal purpose.
Everything moves toward the fulness of Christ and ultimately toward the day when God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 15
ZION AND THE MELCHIZEDEK PRIESTHOOD
BEYOND THE LEVITICAL ORDER
As we continue our study of Zion, we arrive at one of the most important transitions in all of Scripture.
The Bible reveals two priesthoods.
One is temporary.
One is eternal.
One is earthly.
One is heavenly.
One is associated with Levi.
One is associated with Melchizedek.
One was designed for an age of shadows.
One points toward the fulness of Christ.
To understand Zion properly, we must understand why God points beyond Levi to Melchizedek.
THE LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD
The Levitical priesthood served a divine purpose.
God established it.
God ordained it.
God used it.
Yet it was never intended to be the final administration.
HEBREWS 7:11
“If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood.”
Notice the word:
Perfection.
Fulness.
Completion.
The writer immediately asks a question.
If perfection could come through Levi, why would another priesthood be necessary?
The answer is obvious.
Levi was not the destination.
Levi was preparation.
Levi was shadow.
Levi pointed beyond itself.
THE LAW MADE NOTHING PERFECT
Hebrews continues.
HEBREWS 7:19
“For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did.”
The law revealed.
The law instructed.
The law testified.
The law prepared.
Yet the law did not bring perfection.
The law pointed toward Christ.
The law pointed toward a greater administration.
The law pointed toward a better priesthood.
THOU ART A PRIEST FOR EVER
David prophesied this greater priesthood.
PSALM 110:4
“The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
Notice the language.
For ever.
Not temporary.
Not seasonal.
Not generational.
For ever.
The Melchizedek priesthood belongs to an eternal Kingdom.
THE THRONE AND THE PRIESTHOOD
Notice where Psalm 110 begins.
PSALM 110:1
“The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand.”
The chapter begins with a Throne.
Government appears first.
Administration appears first.
Kingdom appears first.
Then comes Melchizedek.
The Throne and Melchizedek are inseparable.
Government and priesthood are inseparable.
Authority and ministry are inseparable.
Kingdom and priesthood are inseparable.
THE ROD OF THY STRENGTH OUT OF ZION
David then introduces Zion.
PSALM 110:2
“The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion.”
Notice what appears in one chapter.
The Throne.
The Kingdom.
Zion.
Melchizedek.
Government.
Priesthood.
This is not accidental.
The Holy Spirit is revealing a unified Kingdom picture.
THE MELCHIZEDEK ORDER IS A KINGDOM ORDER
The first thing Scripture tells us about Melchizedek is that he was a king.
GENESIS 14:18
“And Melchizedek king of Salem.”
The second thing Scripture tells us is that he was a priest.
GENESIS 14:18
“And he was the priest of the most high God.”
King.
Priest.
Government.
Ministry.
Administration.
Worship.
The Melchizedek order unites what had been separated.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The Book of Revelation reveals the same pattern.
REVELATION 1:6
“And hath made us kings and priests unto God.”
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Notice carefully.
Not merely priests.
Not merely kings.
Kings and priests.
The language of Revelation echoes the language of Melchizedek.
THE POWER OF AN ENDLESS LIFE
The foundation of the Melchizedek priesthood is entirely different from Levi.
HEBREWS 7:16
“After the power of an endless life.”
Levi was based upon genealogy.
Melchizedek is based upon life.
Levi depended upon succession.
Melchizedek depends upon life.
Levi pointed toward Christ.
Melchizedek reveals Christ.
The Kingdom Age is built upon life.
The Kingdom Age is built upon resurrection.
The Kingdom Age is built upon the power of an endless life.
JESUS THE HIGH PRIEST
Hebrews leaves no uncertainty.
HEBREWS 6:20
“Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
Christ is not merely a Levitical priest.
Christ is the Melchizedek Priest.
Christ is King.
Christ is Priest.
Christ is Governor.
Christ is Mediator.
Christ unites the Throne and the priesthood.
ZION AND THE KING-PRIEST COMPANY
As we move through Scripture, Zion becomes connected to this same reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
The same epistle that reveals Melchizedek reveals Zion.
This connection is profound.
Zion is governmental.
Melchizedek is governmental.
Zion is priestly.
Melchizedek is priestly.
Zion is Kingdom language.
Melchizedek is Kingdom language.
THE MANIFEST SONS AND THE MELCHIZEDEK ORDER
Romans reveals the manifestation of sons.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Revelation reveals kings and priests.
REVELATION 5:10
“Kings and priests.”
Hebrews reveals Melchizedek.
HEBREWS 7:17
“A priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
The streams begin to merge.
Manifest Sons.
Kings and Priests.
Melchizedek.
Zion.
Kingdom.
Administration.
Fulness.
All of these themes move together.
THE KINGDOM AGE SPEAKS MELCHIZEDEK LANGUAGE
The Kingdom Age is not merely Church language.
The Kingdom Age is Kingdom language.
The Kingdom Age is government language.
The Kingdom Age is king-priest language.
The Kingdom Age is Zion language.
The Kingdom Age is Melchizedek language.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The increase of government requires administration.
The increase of administration requires kings and priests.
The increase of the Kingdom reveals the Melchizedek order unfolding throughout the earth.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah’s prophecy continues to illuminate the path.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The Kingdom is established.
The sons are formed.
The priesthood emerges.
Zion is revealed.
The purpose advances.
The administration unfolds.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The Melchizedek priesthood points toward fullness.
Zion points toward fullness.
The Kingdom points toward fullness.
The Manifest Sons point toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains the same.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Melchizedek points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The Levitical priesthood was temporary and preparatory.
The Melchizedek priesthood is eternal.
Psalm 110 unites the Throne, Zion, Kingdom government, and the Melchizedek order.
Melchizedek reveals the pattern of the King-Priest.
Christ fulfills that pattern perfectly.
The foundation of the Melchizedek priesthood is the power of an endless life.
Revelation reveals kings and priests reigning with Christ.
Zion becomes the governmental and priestly center of Kingdom administration.
The Manifest Sons of God, the Kingdom Age, and the Melchizedek order converge within God’s eternal purpose as He plants the heavens, establishes His Kingdom, reveals His sons, and brings all things into the fulness of Christ until God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 16
KINGS AND PRIESTS UNTO GOD
GOD’S ORIGINAL PURPOSE
One of the greatest truths revealed in Scripture is that God has always desired more than servants.
He desired sons.
He desired a kingdom.
He desired a royal priesthood.
He desired a people through whom His life, authority, and administration could be manifested in the earth.
From Genesis to Revelation, this purpose unfolds progressively.
The language changes.
The administrations change.
The ages change.
Yet the purpose remains the same.
God desires a people united with His Throne, participating in His Kingdom, and manifesting His nature throughout creation.
A KINGDOM OF PRIESTS
The first clear declaration appears at Mount Sinai.
EXODUS 19:5-6
“Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people.”
“And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.”
Notice carefully.
Kingdom.
Priests.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Ministry.
Even before Israel entered the land, God revealed His intention.
His purpose was never merely religious activity.
His purpose was Kingdom administration.
His purpose was a kingdom of priests.
THE FAILURE OF THE OLD ORDER
Yet the old covenant revealed humanity’s inability to fulfill God’s purpose through natural strength.
The priesthood became limited.
The ministry became restricted.
The people became dependent upon a few representatives.
The divine purpose remained.
The administration was incomplete.
The purpose pointed toward a greater fulfillment.
A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
Peter picks up the language of Exodus and applies it to believers.
1 PETER 2:9
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people.”
Notice the language.
Chosen.
Royal.
Priesthood.
Nation.
Kingdom.
Peter is describing more than personal salvation.
He is describing corporate purpose.
He is describing Kingdom identity.
He is describing Zion language.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The Book of Revelation reveals the same reality.
REVELATION 1:5-6
“Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood.”
“And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father.”
Notice the order.
Redemption first.
Administration second.
The blood redeems.
The Kingdom administers.
The cross prepares.
The Kingdom manifests.
The Lamb produces kings and priests.
WE SHALL REIGN ON THE EARTH
John continues.
REVELATION 5:9-10
“Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood.”
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Notice the language.
Redeemed.
Kings.
Priests.
Reign.
Earth.
The purpose extends beyond forgiveness.
The purpose extends into administration.
The purpose extends into Kingdom government.
The purpose extends into manifestation.
THE THRONE AND THE KINGDOM
The Kingdom always proceeds from the Throne.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The Throne administers.
The Kingdom manifests.
The Throne governs.
The kings and priests participate in that government.
The Throne remains supreme.
The sons become participants in divine administration.
MELCHIZEDEK: THE KING-PRIEST PATTERN
The pattern was established long before Revelation.
GENESIS 14:18
“And Melchizedek king of Salem.”
“And he was the priest of the most high God.”
King.
Priest.
Government.
Ministry.
Authority.
Service.
The Melchizedek order unites these realities.
The Book of Revelation reveals their fulfillment.
THOU ART A PRIEST FOR EVER
David saw this Kingdom priesthood.
PSALM 110:4
“Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.”
This priesthood is eternal.
This priesthood is Kingdom-oriented.
This priesthood is governmental.
This priesthood is connected to Zion.
THE ROD OF THY STRENGTH OUT OF ZION
Notice what David says immediately before speaking of Melchizedek.
PSALM 110:2
“The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion.”
The Throne.
The rod.
The Kingdom.
Zion.
Melchizedek.
Government.
Priesthood.
All appear together.
This is Kingdom administration flowing from Zion.
ZION: THE MOUNTAIN OF KINGDOM ADMINISTRATION
Isaiah reveals the same reality.
ISAIAH 2:2
“The mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains.”
ISAIAH 2:3
“For out of Zion shall go forth the law.”
Zion becomes the mountain of government.
Zion becomes the center of administration.
Zion becomes the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
Kings and priests become instruments of that administration.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews moves Zion beyond geography.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
This is present reality.
This is Kingdom reality.
This is governmental reality.
This is priestly reality.
This is corporate reality.
The people of God are identified with Zion.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
Romans reveals who creation is waiting for.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Notice the connection.
Sons.
Kings.
Priests.
Administration.
Government.
Manifestation.
The mature sons participate in the administration of God’s Kingdom.
The mature sons reveal the increase of His government.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of divine administration.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The government increases.
The Kingdom increases.
The manifestation increases.
The administration increases.
Kings and priests become participants in that increase.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah’s great Zion prophecy continues to illuminate the path.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The Kingdom is established.
The sons are formed.
The administration unfolds.
Zion is revealed.
The purpose advances.
Kings and priests emerge as participants in God’s Kingdom purpose.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
Kings and priests move toward fullness.
Zion moves toward fullness.
The Kingdom moves toward fullness.
The sons move toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains the same.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
The priesthood points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
God’s purpose has always involved a kingdom of priests.
Exodus reveals the pattern.
Peter reveals the royal priesthood.
Revelation reveals kings and priests reigning with Christ.
The Melchizedek order provides the King-Priest pattern.
Psalm 110 unites Zion, government, priesthood, and Kingdom authority.
Hebrews reveals Mount Zion as a present Kingdom reality.
The Manifest Sons of God participate in divine administration.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government through kings and priests.
Zion becomes the mountain of Kingdom administration where heaven rules and earth manifests until the fulness of Christ fills all things and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 17
THE WOMAN AND ZION
A GREAT WONDER IN HEAVEN
As we continue our study of Zion, we arrive at one of the most discussed visions in the entire Book of Revelation.
REVELATION 12:1
“And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.”
This is not presented as a small sign.
This is not presented as a minor symbol.
This is:
“A great wonder.”
A great sign.
A great revelation.
A great prophetic picture.
The Holy Spirit is unveiling something that reaches across the entire plan of God.
The woman becomes one of the central figures in the unfolding of God’s Kingdom purpose.
THE WOMAN CLOTHED WITH THE SUN
Notice the description.
REVELATION 12:1
“A woman clothed with the sun.”
The woman is not clothed with earthly garments.
The woman is clothed with heavenly glory.
The sun speaks of ruling light.
The sun speaks of heavenly authority.
The sun speaks of administration.
The sun speaks of Christ Himself.
MALACHI 4:2
“The Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings.”
The woman is connected to divine purpose.
The woman is connected to heavenly administration.
The woman is connected to God’s redemptive plan.
THE MOON UNDER HER FEET
John continues.
REVELATION 12:1
“And the moon under her feet.”
Throughout Scripture the moon reflects the light of the sun.
The moon possesses no light of its own.
The moon reflects a greater light.
The woman stands above the moon.
The reflected light serves beneath her feet.
The purpose of God continues moving forward.
The former gives way to the greater.
The shadow gives way to the substance.
The lesser gives way to the greater.
A CROWN OF TWELVE STARS
REVELATION 12:1
“And upon her head a crown of twelve stars.”
Twelve repeatedly appears throughout Scripture.
Twelve tribes.
Twelve apostles.
Twelve gates.
Twelve foundations.
The number continually points toward governmental completeness.
The woman is associated with divine administration.
The woman is associated with covenant purpose.
The woman is associated with God’s governmental plan throughout the ages.
THE WOMAN BRINGS FORTH A SON
The vision immediately moves toward birth.
REVELATION 12:2
“And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.”
The woman carries purpose.
The woman carries promise.
The woman carries destiny.
The woman carries a son.
The vision is moving toward manifestation.
The vision is moving toward fulfillment.
The vision is moving toward birth.
ZION TRAVAILING TO BRING FORTH
Isaiah saw this long before John.
ISAIAH 66:7-8
“Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.”
“Shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.”
Notice carefully.
Zion.
Travail.
Birth.
Man-child.
Children.
The language of Isaiah and the language of Revelation begin to converge.
Zion is travailing.
Zion is bringing forth.
Zion is producing something.
Zion is moving toward manifestation.
THE WOMAN AND ZION
The connection becomes increasingly clear.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
God plants the heavens.
God establishes the earth.
God forms a people.
God calls them Zion.
Now Isaiah reveals Zion bringing forth children.
The purpose is progressing.
The heavens are planted.
The people are formed.
The children are manifested.
The Kingdom advances.
THE MAN-CHILD
John continues.
REVELATION 12:5
“And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.”
Notice the language.
Man-child.
Rule.
Nations.
Rod.
Government.
Kingdom.
Administration.
The vision immediately introduces Kingdom language.
The birth is connected to government.
The manifestation is connected to authority.
The son is connected to administration.
THE ROD OF THY STRENGTH OUT OF ZION
David saw the same Kingdom reality.
PSALM 110:2
“The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion.”
Notice the connection.
Rod.
Strength.
Zion.
Government.
Kingdom.
The same governmental language appears again.
The rod proceeds from Zion.
The Kingdom proceeds from Zion.
The administration proceeds from Zion.
THE SON AND THE THRONE
The vision reaches its climax.
REVELATION 12:5
“And her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.”
Notice where the son is brought.
Not merely heaven.
The Throne.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Kingdom.
The Throne has been central throughout this book.
Before Zion there was a Throne.
Before manifestation there was administration.
The son is brought into union with the Throne.
THE THRONE, ZION, AND SONSHIP
These themes now begin to converge.
The Throne.
Zion.
Sonship.
Government.
Kingdom.
Manifestation.
Throughout Scripture these realities move together.
PSALM 2:6
“Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.”
REVELATION 12:5
“Caught up unto God, and to his throne.”
ROMANS 8:19
“The manifestation of the sons of God.”
The same river continues flowing.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The purpose is larger than a single son.
HEBREWS 2:10
“In bringing many sons unto glory.”
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many sons reveal the increase.
The Head reveals the pattern.
The Body reveals the increase.
The Seed reveals the pattern.
The Harvest reveals the increase.
The purpose of God is corporate.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John provides the present reality.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
The sons exist.
The inheritance exists.
The life exists.
Yet manifestation remains ahead.
The same pattern continues.
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Present sonship.
Future unveiling.
THE MANIFEST SONS OF GOD
Romans reveals what creation awaits.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
The woman brings forth.
Zion travails.
The sons appear.
The Kingdom advances.
The purpose unfolds.
The manifestation continues.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The birth of the son is connected to Kingdom government.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The Kingdom increases.
The government increases.
The administration increases.
The manifestation increases.
The purpose advances.
The Kingdom Age unfolds.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews reveals the corporate destination.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
The sons belong to Zion.
The Kingdom belongs to Zion.
The administration belongs to Zion.
The purpose belongs to Zion.
The inheritance belongs to Zion.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The woman points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The man-child points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The woman points toward it.
The man-child points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The woman of Revelation 12 is presented as a great sign in heaven.
She is clothed with heavenly glory and crowned with governmental authority.
Isaiah connects Zion with travail and the bringing forth of children.
The woman brings forth a man-child destined to rule.
The rod of strength proceeds from Zion.
The man-child is caught up unto God and His Throne.
The themes of Zion, sonship, government, and Kingdom administration converge.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern and the many sons reveal the increase.
The Manifest Sons of God emerge within God’s Kingdom purpose.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government through mature sonship until the fulness of Christ fills all things and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 18
THE MAN-CHILD CAUGHT UP UNTO GOD AND HIS THRONE
THE CLIMAX OF THE VISION
The twelfth chapter of Revelation reaches its climax in a single verse.
Every symbol.
Every image.
Every travail.
Every conflict.
Every prophetic picture moves toward this moment.
REVELATION 12:5
“And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.”
This is one of the most powerful verses in the entire Book of Revelation.
This verse contains:
Sonship.
Government.
Authority.
Kingdom.
Throne.
Administration.
Manifestation.
The man-child is not presented merely as a child.
The man-child is presented as a ruler.
The man-child is presented as a governmental son.
The man-child is presented as a Kingdom reality.
SHE BROUGHT FORTH A MAN-CHILD
The first emphasis is birth.
REVELATION 12:5
“She brought forth a man child.”
Throughout Scripture God moves from seed to harvest.
Promise to fulfillment.
Conception to birth.
Formation to manifestation.
The man-child represents manifestation.
The man-child represents maturity.
The man-child represents fulfillment.
The man-child represents what God has been forming.
ZION TRAVAILS
Long before John saw the woman, Isaiah saw Zion.
ISAIAH 66:7
“Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.”
Notice carefully.
Man-child.
Travail.
Birth.
Zion.
The same language appears.
The same pattern appears.
The same purpose appears.
Isaiah and Revelation are speaking of the same river.
SHALL A NATION BE BORN AT ONCE?
Isaiah continues.
ISAIAH 66:8
“For as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.”
Notice the progression.
Man-child.
Children.
Corporate increase.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many sons reveal the increase.
The Seed reveals the pattern.
The Harvest reveals the increase.
This has been God’s pattern throughout Scripture.
WHO WAS TO RULE ALL NATIONS
The next statement immediately introduces government.
REVELATION 12:5
“Who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron.”
Notice the language.
Rule.
Nations.
Rod.
Government.
Kingdom.
Administration.
Authority.
This is not merely salvation language.
This is Kingdom language.
This is government language.
This is Zion language.
This is Throne language.
THE ROD OF THY STRENGTH
David saw this Kingdom reality centuries earlier.
PSALM 110:2
“The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion.”
Notice the connection.
Rod.
Strength.
Zion.
Government.
Administration.
Kingdom.
The rod proceeds from Zion.
The government proceeds from Zion.
The authority proceeds from Zion.
The Kingdom proceeds from Zion.
YET HAVE I SET MY KING UPON MY HOLY HILL OF ZION
Psalm 2 reveals the same Kingdom reality.
PSALM 2:6
“Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.”
Notice:
King.
Zion.
Government.
Kingdom.
Authority.
Administration.
The man-child is connected to the same governmental purpose revealed throughout Scripture.
THE THRONE IS THE DESTINATION
The most important phrase in the verse now appears.
REVELATION 12:5
“And her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.”
Notice where the child is brought.
Not merely heaven.
Not merely blessing.
Not merely protection.
The Throne.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Kingdom.
The Throne has been central throughout this entire book.
Before Zion there was a Throne.
Before manifestation there was administration.
Before Kingdom expression there was Kingdom government.
THE THRONE BEFORE ZION
The Scriptures consistently reveal the same order.
PSALM 103:19
“The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
The Throne comes first.
The Kingdom follows.
Administration comes first.
Manifestation follows.
The man-child is brought into union with the Throne.
THE HEAVENS DO RULE
Daniel reveals the same principle.
DANIEL 4:26
“The heavens do rule.”
The Throne governs.
The Kingdom manifests.
The heavens rule.
The earth responds.
The administration proceeds.
The manifestation follows.
The man-child is connected to this heavenly administration.
THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN
The man-child cannot be separated from Christ.
ROMANS 8:29
“That he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
Christ is the pattern.
Christ is the Firstborn.
Christ is the prototype.
Christ reveals what sonship looks like.
The many brethren reveal the increase.
The many sons reveal the harvest.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The purpose is corporate.
HEBREWS 2:10
“In bringing many sons unto glory.”
Notice again.
Many sons.
Not merely one son.
Many sons.
The purpose expands.
The purpose multiplies.
The purpose increases.
The purpose matures.
The purpose manifests.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals the present reality.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
The sons exist.
The life exists.
The inheritance exists.
Yet manifestation remains ahead.
John immediately says:
1 JOHN 3:2
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
The same pattern continues.
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Present sonship.
Future unveiling.
THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD
Romans identifies what creation is awaiting.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
The man-child and Romans 8 belong together.
Manifestation.
Sonship.
Kingdom.
Government.
Administration.
Fulness.
The same river continues flowing through the Scriptures.
ZION AND THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah’s great prophecy now shines even brighter.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The sons are formed.
The Kingdom advances.
The earth is established.
The man-child appears.
The Throne is revealed.
The purpose unfolds.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
Hebrews reveals the corporate Kingdom reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God.”
The Throne.
The Kingdom.
The sons.
The priesthood.
The government.
The administration.
All converge in Zion.
KINGS AND PRIESTS UNTO GOD
Revelation reveals the mature expression of Kingdom life.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.”
Kings.
Priests.
Government.
Administration.
Kingdom.
Authority.
The man-child is inseparable from Kingdom administration.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The man-child is connected to the increase of Christ’s government.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
The government increases.
The Kingdom increases.
The manifestation increases.
The administration increases.
The purpose advances.
The Kingdom Age unfolds.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination remains unchanged.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The man-child points toward fullness.
The sons point toward fullness.
Zion points toward fullness.
The Kingdom points toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains the same.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
The man-child points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The man-child stands at the center of Revelation 12.
Isaiah connects Zion, travail, and the bringing forth of a man-child.
The man-child is destined to rule the nations.
The rod of strength proceeds from Zion.
The child is caught up unto God and His Throne.
The Throne represents government, administration, and Kingdom authority.
Christ stands as the Firstborn among many brethren.
The many sons reveal the increase of God’s purpose.
Romans 8 reveals the manifestation of the sons of God.
Hebrews reveals Mount Zion as the corporate Kingdom reality.
The man-child, Zion, the Throne, and the Kingdom Age converge as part of God’s eternal purpose moving toward the fulness of Christ and ultimately toward the day when God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 19
THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN
GOD’S PURPOSE HAS ALWAYS BEEN CORPORATE
One of the greatest misunderstandings in Scripture is viewing Christ as the end of God’s purpose rather than the beginning of God’s increase.
Christ is the center of God’s purpose.
Christ is the foundation of God’s purpose.
Christ is the source of God’s purpose.
Yet the Scriptures reveal that Christ is also the Firstborn.
And a firstborn implies others who follow.
A firstborn implies increase.
A firstborn implies family.
A firstborn implies multiplication.
A firstborn implies fulfillment.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many brethren reveal the increase.
THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN
Paul reveals this remarkable truth.
ROMANS 8:29
“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
Notice the language.
Firstborn.
Many brethren.
The purpose is not merely one Son.
The purpose is many brethren.
The purpose is corporate sonship.
The purpose is increase.
The purpose is manifestation.
The purpose is conformity to Christ.
CONFORMED TO THE IMAGE OF HIS SON
The goal is clearly stated.
ROMANS 8:29
“To be conformed to the image of his Son.”
God’s purpose is not merely forgiveness.
God’s purpose is not merely salvation.
God’s purpose is not merely justification.
God’s purpose is conformity.
God’s purpose is transformation.
God’s purpose is manifestation.
God’s purpose is Christ revealed.
The Firstborn reveals the image.
The many brethren are conformed to the image.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
The writer of Hebrews confirms the same truth.
HEBREWS 2:10
“For it became him… in bringing many sons unto glory.”
Notice again.
Many sons.
Not merely one Son.
Many sons.
The purpose expands.
The purpose multiplies.
The purpose increases.
The purpose matures.
The purpose manifests.
This is Kingdom language.
This is harvest language.
This is fullness language.
CHRIST THE FIRSTFRUITS
Paul reveals another dimension.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:20
“But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.”
Again we see the principle.
Firstfruits.
Not harvest.
Beginning.
Not completion.
Pattern.
Not fulfillment.
The Firstfruits reveal what is coming.
The Firstfruits guarantee the harvest.
The Firstfruits reveal God’s intention.
EVERY MAN IN HIS OWN ORDER
Paul continues.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:23
“But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s.”
Notice the divine order.
Christ first.
Increase afterward.
Seed first.
Harvest afterward.
Beginning first.
Fulfillment afterward.
God works progressively.
God works through increase.
God works through manifestation.
NOW ARE WE THE SONS OF GOD
John reveals present reality.
1 JOHN 3:2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.”
The sons already exist.
The life already exists.
The inheritance already exists.
The relationship already exists.
Yet John immediately continues:
1 JOHN 3:2
“And it doth not yet appear what we shall be.”
Present reality.
Future manifestation.
Present sonship.
Future unveiling.
Present firstfruits.
Future harvest.
THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD
Romans reveals what creation is waiting for.
ROMANS 8:19
“For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
Notice carefully.
Manifestation.
Not creation.
Manifestation.
The sons exist.
The issue is unveiling.
The issue is maturity.
The issue is fulfillment.
The issue is manifestation.
TO WIT, THE REDEMPTION OF OUR BODY
Paul identifies the object of expectation.
ROMANS 8:23
“Waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.”
The manifestation of sonship is connected to redemption.
The manifestation of sonship is connected to transformation.
The manifestation of sonship is connected to Kingdom fulfillment.
The manifestation of sonship is connected to fullness.
THE WOMAN, THE MAN-CHILD, AND THE MANY BRETHREN
Revelation reveals the pattern.
REVELATION 12:5
“And she brought forth a man child.”
Isaiah reveals the increase.
ISAIAH 66:8
“As soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.”
Notice the progression.
Man-child.
Children.
Firstborn.
Many brethren.
Seed.
Harvest.
The same pattern continues throughout Scripture.
ZION BRINGS FORTH CHILDREN
Isaiah directly connects Zion to increase.
ISAIAH 66:8
“As soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.”
Zion is not barren.
Zion is fruitful.
Zion is productive.
Zion brings forth.
Zion manifests.
Zion participates in God’s increase.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The children reveal the harvest.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
The writer of Hebrews reveals the corporate Kingdom reality.
HEBREWS 12:22-23
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
“To the general assembly and church of the firstborn.”
Notice the connection.
Mount Zion.
The Firstborn.
Corporate assembly.
Kingdom reality.
The themes are converging.
Zion becomes the corporate expression of God’s purpose.
KINGS AND PRIESTS
The increase of sonship produces Kingdom administration.
REVELATION 5:10
“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests.”
The Firstborn reigns.
The many brethren reign.
The Kingdom increases.
The administration expands.
The purpose unfolds.
The harvest matures.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age is the age of increase.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Notice the language.
Increase.
Government.
Kingdom.
Peace.
The Firstborn reveals the Kingdom.
The many brethren reveal the increase of the Kingdom.
The sons become participants in divine administration.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS
Isaiah’s great prophecy remains central.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The Kingdom advances.
The sons are formed.
The brethren increase.
The harvest appears.
The purpose unfolds.
Zion becomes the corporate vessel through which God’s purpose advances.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Paul reveals the destination.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The Firstborn points toward fullness.
The many brethren point toward fullness.
The Kingdom points toward fullness.
Zion points toward fullness.
Everything moves toward the full expression of Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final objective remains unchanged.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
The Firstborn points toward it.
The many brethren point toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
Christ is the Firstborn among many brethren.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many brethren reveal the increase.
God’s purpose has always been corporate.
The many sons are brought unto glory.
The Firstfruits reveal the coming harvest.
The sons already exist, yet creation waits for their manifestation.
The redemption of the body remains the object of expectation.
The woman brings forth the man-child, and Zion brings forth her children.
Mount Zion becomes the corporate Kingdom reality of the Firstborn and the many brethren.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government through mature sonship until the fulness of Christ fills all things and God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 20
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
GOD’S ETERNAL OBJECTIVE
Throughout this book we have followed a single river flowing through Scripture.
The Throne.
The Kingdom.
Zion.
The Manifest Sons.
The Melchizedek Priesthood.
The Man-Child.
The Firstborn among Many Brethren.
The Redemption of the Body.
The Kingdom Age.
Yet all of these realities point toward something greater.
They point toward the fulness of Christ.
The fulness of Christ stands as one of the greatest themes in all Scripture.
It is the destination toward which every administration moves.
It is the objective toward which every age progresses.
It is the purpose toward which all creation advances.
THE MYSTERY OF HIS WILL
Paul reveals God’s eternal purpose.
EPHESIANS 1:9-10
“Having made known unto us the mystery of his will.”
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
Notice the language.
Mystery.
Fulness.
Gather together.
All things.
Christ.
This is not fragmentation.
This is not division.
This is not separation.
This is gathering.
This is unity.
This is fulfillment.
This is Christ becoming the center of all things.
THE DISPENSATION OF THE FULNESS OF TIMES
Notice carefully what Paul calls it.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“The dispensation of the fulness of times.”
The ages move toward fulness.
The administrations move toward fulness.
The Kingdom moves toward fulness.
The sons move toward fulness.
History itself moves toward fulness.
The purpose of God is not random.
The purpose of God is progressive.
The purpose of God is moving toward completion.
UNTIL WE ALL COME
Paul expands the vision.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Till we all come in the unity of the faith.”
Notice the language.
Till.
Movement.
Progression.
Growth.
Maturity.
Fulfillment.
Paul sees a people advancing toward a destination.
THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE SON OF GOD
The destination continues.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“And of the knowledge of the Son of God.”
The purpose is not merely information.
The purpose is revelation.
The purpose is not merely facts.
The purpose is Christ revealed.
The purpose is experiential knowledge.
The purpose is union.
The purpose is conformity.
The purpose is participation.
UNTO A PERFECT MAN
Paul continues.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto a perfect man.”
The goal is maturity.
The goal is completion.
The goal is fulfillment.
The goal is manifestation.
The goal is not perpetual infancy.
The goal is maturity.
The goal is the perfect man.
THE STATURE OF THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
The destination is finally stated.
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
This is one of the greatest statements in Scripture.
Notice the language.
Measure.
Stature.
Fulness.
Christ.
Not partial Christ.
Not beginning Christ.
Not firstfruits only.
Fulness.
Everything moves toward the fulness of Christ.
CHRIST IN YOU
Paul reveals how this process begins.
COLOSSIANS 1:27
“Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
The Kingdom begins internally.
The seed is planted.
Life begins.
Growth begins.
Formation begins.
The Christ within moves toward manifestation without.
CHRIST BE FORMED IN YOU
Paul reveals the process.
GALATIANS 4:19
“Until Christ be formed in you.”
Formation precedes manifestation.
Growth precedes harvest.
Seed precedes fulness.
God forms before God reveals.
God develops before God manifests.
FROM GLORY TO GLORY
The process is progressive.
2 CORINTHIANS 3:18
“Changed into the same image from glory to glory.”
Notice the language.
Changed.
Image.
Glory.
Increase.
Transformation.
Progression.
The purpose unfolds progressively.
The image becomes clearer.
The manifestation becomes greater.
The fulness increases.
THE FIRSTBORN AND THE MANY BRETHREN
Romans reveals the corporate dimension.
ROMANS 8:29
“That he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”
The Firstborn reveals the pattern.
The many brethren reveal the increase.
Christ reveals the image.
The sons are conformed to the image.
The Head reveals the pattern.
The Body reveals the increase.
MANY SONS UNTO GLORY
Hebrews confirms the same truth.
HEBREWS 2:10
“In bringing many sons unto glory.”
The purpose is corporate.
The purpose is Kingdom.
The purpose is sonship.
The purpose is maturity.
The purpose is fulness.
The purpose is Christ expressed in a people.
THE MANIFESTATION OF THE SONS OF GOD
Romans reveals one of the great milestones on the journey.
ROMANS 8:19
“The earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.”
The sons move toward manifestation.
The Kingdom moves toward manifestation.
Creation moves toward manifestation.
The purpose moves toward manifestation.
The fulness of Christ advances through manifestation.
THE REDEMPTION OF THE BODY
Paul identifies another major aspect of fulfillment.
ROMANS 8:23
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
The purpose touches spirit.
The purpose touches soul.
The purpose touches body.
The purpose reaches creation.
The purpose reaches the earth.
The purpose reaches all things.
The fulness of Christ leaves nothing untouched.
ZION AND THE FULNESS OF CHRIST
Isaiah’s great prophecy remains central.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens are planted.
The Kingdom advances.
The sons are formed.
The purpose unfolds.
Zion emerges.
The fulness approaches.
The planting reaches harvest.
YE ARE COME UNTO MOUNT ZION
Hebrews reveals the corporate Kingdom reality.
HEBREWS 12:22
“But ye are come unto mount Sion.”
Zion becomes the corporate vessel of fulfillment.
Zion becomes the mountain of Kingdom administration.
Zion becomes the place where heaven rules and earth manifests.
Zion becomes the corporate expression of Christ’s purpose in the earth.
THE KINGDOM AGE
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ throughout creation.
ISAIAH 9:7
“Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”
Increase.
Government.
Kingdom.
Fulness.
Manifestation.
Everything advances toward greater expression.
Everything advances toward greater revelation.
Everything advances toward greater fulfillment.
THE CHURCH WHICH IS HIS BODY
Paul reveals another dimension.
EPHESIANS 1:22-23
“And gave him to be the head over all things to the church.”
“Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”
Notice the language.
His Body.
His Fulness.
All in all.
The Church is not presented as separate from Christ.
The Church is presented as the vessel through which His fulness is expressed.
ALL THINGS IN CHRIST
The vision continues expanding.
COLOSSIANS 1:16-17
“For by him were all things created.”
“And by him all things consist.”
Everything begins in Christ.
Everything exists through Christ.
Everything is sustained by Christ.
Everything moves toward Christ.
GOD ALL IN ALL
The final destination now comes into view.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
This is the ultimate objective.
The Throne points toward it.
The Kingdom points toward it.
The Ages points toward it.
Zion points toward it.
The Manifest Sons point toward it.
The Redemption of the Body points toward it.
The Fulness of Christ points toward it.
Everything moves toward the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The fulness of Christ is the great destination of God’s eternal purpose.
The dispensation of the fulness of times gathers all things together in Christ.
Believers are moving toward the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
Christ is formed within His people and revealed progressively from glory to glory.
The Firstborn reveals the pattern and the many brethren reveal the increase.
The Manifest Sons of God reveal Kingdom maturity.
The redemption of the body reveals Kingdom fulfillment.
Zion becomes the corporate vessel through which God’s purpose advances.
The Kingdom Age reveals the increase of Christ’s government throughout creation.
The Church is presented as His Body and the fulness of Him that filleth all in all.
Everything moves toward Christ.
Everything moves toward fulfillment.
Everything moves toward the day when God becomes all in all.
CHAPTER 21
GOD ALL IN ALL
THE FINAL DESTINATION OF GOD’S PURPOSE
Every river in Scripture flows toward a single ocean.
Every prophecy points toward a single conclusion.
Every administration moves toward a single fulfillment.
Every age advances toward a single destination.
The Throne.
The Kingdom.
The Ages.
Zion.
The Manifest Sons.
The Redemption of the Body.
The Melchizedek Priesthood.
The Man-Child.
The Fulness of Christ.
None of these are the final objective.
They are all moving toward something greater.
They are all moving toward:
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
This is the consummation of God’s eternal purpose.
This is the final destination of Scripture.
This is the fulfillment toward which all things move.
THE END IS REVEALED
Paul reveals the conclusion of God’s plan.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:24
“Then cometh the end.”
The end is not destruction.
The end is not abandonment.
The end is not defeat.
The end is fulfillment.
The end is completion.
The end is consummation.
The end is purpose accomplished.
The end is God’s will fully realized.
CHRIST MUST REIGN
Before the end comes, Paul reveals a process.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:25
“For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.”
Notice the language.
Must reign.
Kingdom.
Government.
Administration.
Authority.
Christ reigns.
Christ governs.
Christ administers.
The Kingdom advances.
The purpose unfolds.
The reign continues until every enemy is subdued.
THE LAST ENEMY
Paul identifies the final enemy.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:26
“The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.”
Death entered through Adam.
Death has affected creation.
Death has affected humanity.
Death has affected the earth.
Yet death is not eternal.
Death is not ultimate.
Death is not victorious.
Christ reigns until death itself is defeated.
LIFE TRIUMPHS OVER DEATH
The Kingdom is moving toward life.
JOHN 11:25
“I am the resurrection, and the life.”
Christ is life.
Christ is resurrection.
Christ is victory.
Christ is fulfillment.
Everything moving toward Christ is moving toward life.
Everything moving toward the Kingdom is moving toward life.
Everything moving toward fulfillment is moving toward life.
ALL THINGS UNDER HIS FEET
Paul continues.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:27
“For he hath put all things under his feet.”
Notice the scope.
All things.
Not some things.
All things.
The Kingdom is comprehensive.
The purpose is comprehensive.
The reconciliation is comprehensive.
The administration is comprehensive.
Everything moves beneath the authority of Christ.
THE DISPENSATION OF THE FULNESS OF TIMES
Paul reveals the same reality elsewhere.
EPHESIANS 1:10
“That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ.”
Notice the language.
Fulness.
Gather together.
One.
All things.
Christ.
This is the direction of history.
This is the direction of redemption.
This is the direction of the Kingdom.
Everything moves toward unity in Christ.
THE RECONCILIATION OF ALL THINGS
Paul expands the vision.
COLOSSIANS 1:19-20
“For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell.”
“And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself.”
Notice again.
All things.
Fulness.
Reconciliation.
Peace.
Christ.
The purpose is larger than humanity alone.
The purpose reaches creation.
The purpose reaches heaven and earth.
The purpose reaches all things.
THE KINGDOM DELIVERED TO THE FATHER
Paul reveals a remarkable moment.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:24
“When he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father.”
The Kingdom is not abandoned.
The Kingdom is fulfilled.
The Kingdom reaches its purpose.
The administration reaches completion.
The reign accomplishes its objective.
The purpose is fulfilled.
THE THRONE AND ITS PURPOSE
Throughout this book we have seen the centrality of the Throne.
REVELATION 22:1
“A pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.”
The Throne administers life.
The Throne administers government.
The Throne administers purpose.
The Throne administers reconciliation.
The Throne remains central until God’s purpose reaches fulfillment.
THE PLANTING OF THE HEAVENS FULFILLED
Isaiah’s great prophecy now reaches its conclusion.
ISAIAH 51:16
“That I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art my people.”
The heavens were planted.
The earth was established.
The people were formed.
Zion emerged.
The Kingdom advanced.
The purpose unfolded.
Now the harvest reaches completion.
The planting reaches fulfillment.
ZION’S ULTIMATE PURPOSE
Zion was never the destination.
Zion was the vessel.
Zion was the mountain of government.
Zion was the place of administration.
Zion was the corporate expression of God’s purpose.
Yet Zion itself points beyond itself.
Zion points toward God being all in all.
THE MANIFEST SONS AND THEIR PURPOSE
The Manifest Sons are not the destination.
ROMANS 8:19
“The manifestation of the sons of God.”
The sons are part of the process.
The sons are part of the administration.
The sons are part of the Kingdom.
The sons are part of the fulfillment.
Yet the sons themselves point toward something greater.
The sons point toward God being all in all.
THE REDEMPTION OF THE BODY FULFILLED
ROMANS 8:23
“To wit, the redemption of our body.”
The redemption of the body is not the destination.
It is a milestone.
It is part of the fulfillment.
It is part of the manifestation.
It is part of the victory of life.
Yet it points beyond itself.
It points toward God being all in all.
THE FULNESS OF CHRIST COMPLETED
EPHESIANS 4:13
“Unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”
The fulness of Christ is not separate from God’s final objective.
The fulness of Christ reveals God’s final objective.
Christ fills all things.
Christ gathers all things.
Christ reconciles all things.
Christ delivers the Kingdom fulfilled.
A NEW HEAVEN AND A NEW EARTH
John sees the culmination.
REVELATION 21:1
“And I saw a new heaven and a new earth.”
The old order passes.
The new order appears.
The curse is removed.
Death is defeated.
The Kingdom is manifested.
The purpose is fulfilled.
THE TABERNACLE OF GOD WITH MEN
The next statement reveals the heart of God’s purpose.
REVELATION 21:3
“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them.”
Notice the language.
Dwell.
Tabernacle.
Presence.
Union.
God and man brought together.
The separation ends.
The purpose is fulfilled.
NO MORE DEATH
The victory becomes complete.
REVELATION 21:4
“There shall be no more death.”
The last enemy has fallen.
Life triumphs.
The Kingdom triumphs.
Christ triumphs.
The purpose triumphs.
GOD ALL IN ALL
Now we arrive at the final statement.
1 CORINTHIANS 15:28
“That God may be all in all.”
This is the destination of the Throne.
This is the destination of Zion.
This is the destination of the Kingdom.
This is the destination of the Ages.
This is the destination of the Manifest Sons.
This is the destination of the Fulness of Christ.
This is the destination of creation.
This is the destination of redemption.
This is the destination of history.
This is the destination of God’s eternal purpose.
God all in all.
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The final objective of God’s eternal purpose is revealed in 1 Corinthians 15:28:
“That God may be all in all.”
Christ reigns until every enemy is subdued.
The last enemy destroyed is death.
All things are gathered together in Christ.
All things are reconciled through Christ.
The Kingdom reaches fulfillment and is delivered to the Father.
The Throne accomplishes its purpose.
Zion accomplishes its purpose.
The Manifest Sons accomplish their purpose.
The redemption of the body accomplishes its purpose.
The fulness of Christ accomplishes its purpose.
John sees a new heaven and a new earth.
The tabernacle of God dwells with men.
Death is no more.
The curse is no more.
The purpose is fulfilled.
The ages reach their consummation.
The Kingdom reaches its completion.
And God becomes all in all.
