 
# The KINGDOM of HEAVEN

# -

## (The Authority of Mankind)

sybrand van kwawegen

Copyright 2020 sybrand van kwawegen

### Publisher - sybrand van kwawegen

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### © King James Version Holy Bible (Authorised Version)

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### Front page: Painting by sybrand van kwawegen (Krugersdorp),

Acknowledgements.

My first and foremost expression of gratitude for the writing of this book must undoubtedly be to the Lord God, the FATHER, the SON and the HOLY SPIRIT for the revelation of the idea, the inspiration that kept me going and writing without fear or doubt while continuously revealing more and more new insights into the Word of God and developing ever deeper understanding of the need for a return to the fundamentals as revealed in the Word of God and by the Holy Spirit.

I owe a great deal of gratitude to Cynthia my wife for her patience with me while she spends many hours alone while I am writing, researching and listening to the LORD GOD. In addition for her way of always keeping me grounded in the daily reality of this world we are currently living in. Her unshakeable faith that's as innocent of that of a child is an amazing contribution to keeping things so plain that all can understand.

To my friend and mentor tiaan gildenhuys (no caps is his preference) whose books and videos have been an endless source of reference, teaching and example I owe a very special thanks for his extremely in depth examination of expositions and illustration always patiently pointing out irregularities or illogical arguments and misapprehended facts as well as many grammatical corrections. Not least for his encouragement to publish for the sake of the salvation of the lost and the misled.

Preface

In introducing this little book I want to begin with some quotes by DL Moody:

"Oh, may God show us this truth. Have we been toiling all night? Let us throw the net on the right side; let us ask God to forgive our sins and anoint us with power from on high. But remember, He is not going to give this power to an impatient man; He is not going to give it to a selfish man. He will never give it to an ambitious man whose aim is selfish, until he is first emptied of himself – emptied of pride and all worldly thoughts. Let it be God's glory and not our own that we seek, and when we get to that point, the Lord will bless us for good. Then the measure of our blessing will be full. Do you know what heaven's measure is? Good measure, pressed down, and shaken together and running over (Luke 6:38). If we get our hearts filled with the Word of God, how is Satan going to get in? How is the world going to get in, for heaven's measure is a good measure, pressed down and shaken together and running over. Do we have this fullness? If not, then we need to seek it and declare by the grace of God we want it, for it is the Father's good pleasure to give us these things. He wants us to shine down in this world; He wants to lift us up for His work; He wants us to have the power to testify for His Son. He has left us in this world to testify for Him. What did He leave us for? Not to buy and sell and to get gain, but to glorify Christ. How are we going to do His work without the Spirit? That is the question. How are we to do it without the power of God?"

"Some people seem to think they are losing time if they wait on God for His power, so away they go and work without consecration; they are working without any anointing; they are working without any power. But after Jesus had said, Receive ye the Holy Spirit and had breathed on them, He said, But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye are endued with power from on high. Then we read in Acts: But ye shall receive the virtue [power] of the Holy Spirit which shall come upon you (Acts 1:8). The Spirit had certainly been given to them or they could not have believed, taken their stand for God, or gone through what they did. But they endured the scoffs and frowns of their friends. Consider all of what Christ said: Ye shall receive the virtue [power] of the Holy Spirit which shall come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem and in all Judaea and in Samaria and unto the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit in us is one thing, and the Holy Spirit on us is another."

"Let's cry to God that we may have a double portion of the Holy Spirit and not be satisfied with this worldly state of living, but let us, like Sampson, shake ourselves and come out from the world, so we may have the power of God." (All Three quotes taken from "Secret Power (Updated, Annotated): The Secret of Success in Christian Life and Work" by Dwight L. Moody, published by Kindle).

I know that many that read this will come from church traditions that explain away the miracle working ministry of the apostles and the early church by saying that JESUS CHRIST gave that authority only to them and it was intended only for the early church and is no longer applicable to the church anymore. they add to this that only 5% of those that are prayed for to be healed in churches are actually healed (HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version). All of this stems in the first instance from the apostasy of the Church of JESUS CHRIST by the Roman Catholic Church and the perpetuation of false doctrines, idol worship and mingling of Christian doctrine and the Word of God with political domination. Consequently there developed a leadership style of domination that is the opposite of the biblical servant leadership and all of that has led to a falling away of the teaching of a vast array of Biblical truths, Laws and discipline.

My reason for the writing of this book came from the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that raised in me a deep concern for the salvation of mankind, the physical as well as spiritual salvation, as well as the ever increasing cost of secular medicine allied to the widespread corruption of the industry, particularly by the pharmaceutical organisations, which together with the foregoing is placing sanctification to the uttermost of the common man because of their relative poverty and the wealthy by virtue of their self exclusion through the disobedience to the Word of God.

As this inspiration grew I became extremely restless until I actually started writing and then the flow of wisdom and knowledge and understanding was amazing and revelational. Ultimately there are two areas that I became aware of that need urgent and serious attention. The first was the area of WHO has to address the situation in order to make a significant difference to the quality of the life of disciples of JESUS CHRIST and the second (not in order of importance but because it arose out of the growing understanding of the first) is the need for a proper understanding of the root causes of diseases (HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version). I hope to show that the responsibility not only rests on everyone of us but that in fact the teaching of JESUS Christ was from the very first day of His ministry aimed at informing mankind of exactly this fact. not only that but the ignorance of this fact is a major stumbling block in the sanctification of the people of Jesus Christ.

As to the second issue there is still a huge vacuum in our society on the understanding of the root causes of diseases. Our medical doctors (and I have no doubt that they are nevertheless used and respected by the Lord JESUS CHRIST) are trained to deal with and alleviate the symptoms of disease and the fact is that they are increasingly losing the fight (HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version). There is however, already some extremely well researched documentation available in this regard of which the work by Dr. MK Strydom is one of extreme importance. At this point I want to conclude my preface by saying that dealing with the Who of the process of rectification would be incomplete for any individual that obtains the authority that will be explained is incomplete without the further study of the root causes of diseases.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

PREFACE

PART 1

Chapter 1: Towards a proper understanding of the "authority" given to us by JESUS CHRIST.

PART 2

Chapter 2: Putting it all together to Whom this authority can be given

Chapter 3: To comprehend What this "authority" is that we can be given.

Chapter 4: How to Acquire this "authority".

Chapter 5: How to Keep this authority.

Chapter 6: The effects of the authority.

Chapter 7: References

About the author:

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN-PART 1

CHAPTER 1: Towards a proper understanding of the "authority" given to us by JESUS CHRIST.

Every time the Word "kingdom" is used in the Gospels in the Word of God it is translated as such from the Greek word "basileia". Does this translation, although technically correct make sense? Take for instance its first mention by John the Baptist in Matthew 3:2 "... for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Now a kingdom is a specific territory and so is heaven a specific territory. Is John then saying "the territory of heaven is at hand" or "the heaven of heaven is at hand"? Not very likely.

Basileia can also be correctly interpreted as "authority". In the rest of this article I will show how this interpretation firstly makes more sense, is a far more likely meaning, and secondly has a very far reaching implication for the salvation and Rapture of the saints.

In the first instance I will examine every instance of the use of the phrase "kingdom of heaven" in the Gospel of Matthew. I will apply it as the "authority of heaven" in each instance and then analyse the implications. To conclude the investigation I will take the last parts of the investigation from the Gospel of Luke and Acts for reasons explained when I get to that part.

The Gospel of Matthew

And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:2 KJV

As I've shown heaven of heaven or territory of heaven does not have any relevance. However, to warn that the **authority** of heaven is nearby does make sense and may mean a number of things. The one implication that leaps out of the page is that THE Authority, i.e. a Person, is about to appear that rules in heaven. But then look at the interesting words of John "at hand". It comes from the Greek word _eggizo_ ̄ which means "to join one thing to another". That leaves the question who or what is THE Authority to be joined to? At this stage any further extrapolation may be risky. We are dealing here with the prophecy of a prophet so at the time John made this prophesy it would also have set those who heard it thinking about its full meaning on the one hand but recognising also that something never before experienced by mankind was likely to occur in the near future. "What exactly, from heaven, was soon to be joined to whom or what and where?

I will not speculate in this entire document. Neither will I turn to anything other than the Word of the LORD GOD to explain (show) what the real meaning is, what truth the TRUTH is revealing to those for whom His Word is intended.

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 4:17 KJV

The next time Matthew records this phrase is at the beginning of the ministry of JESUS CHRIST. This time there is however, a little more context to be worked with and particularly; water baptism, the pointing out of the false "religion" of the Pharisees, the chopping down of the vine to the root, the one that will purge, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and a demonstration of remarkable strength in resistance against satan. Let us first briefly then consider the implication of this context which is largely found in Matthew chapter 3 and 4:1-16

●Water baptism ( _Mat 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. Mat 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance:_ ) came to be an acceptable way of showing the repentance of the soul bound by sin and confessing it to the Almighty. Now up to that time remember that there were "sin offerings" prescribed to the Israelites by YHVH. What then was the meaning of this major departure from the Law? Why no divine interference and why the opposition by the Pharisees? From the Gospels it is clear and obvious that this was indeed divinely approved of and the opposition was because of the Pharisaic fear of losing their authority.

●The Pharisees. ((Mat 3:7) But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?) John's reprimanded of the Pharisees certainly does not seem to me to be showing us that they were the "divine interference". In fact by the harsh words around placing their hope in the promises of YHVH to Abraham, one gets a sense that John is overriding the Hebrew faith and authority by replacing it with a higher authority.

●Chopping of the vine. (I feel it necessary to bring this in here from Matthew 3:10 (And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.) So that we can later have greater clarity about the authority) "I am the vine, you are the branches" John 15:5. It is well known and accepted that the vine was depicted in Scripture as the Lord and that the branches represented the 12 tribes of Israel. Now the Baptist talks of all the branches being chopped off down to the root. Also these branches are to be purified by "fire". This is a reference to the separation and of what is coming for the nation of Israel and an indication that the unfulfilled prophesies concerning them will still be fulfilled. I don't think that I would be wrong in saying that this prophet, the Baptist (in Matthew 3:7-10) the likes of whom had never before been seen, was prophesying here that what was imminent would involve a dispensation that would not involve, but would also not undo, the nation of Israel and its relationship with the LORD GOD.

●To the root. (I feel it again necessary to bring this in here from Matthew 3:10 so that we can later have greater clarity about the authority) Though the branches are chopped off, the root was left intact. The explanation of this is seen in the OT where Yeshua is referred to as the root but the most explicit explanation comes in the final revelation by JESUS CHRIST Himself in Rev 22:16 when JESUS CHRIST says _"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star._ KJV. Though the Nation of Israel is temporarily suspended, the root, i.e. JESUS CHRIST remains as the beginning of what was about to happen.

●The One that will purge. ( _Mat 3:12 Whose fan_ _is_ _in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire._ ) Clearly if the root as we have seen is JESUS CHRIST then it is JESUS CHRIST who is the one that will purge.

●The false religion. (i.e. the implication of Matthew 3:7 - 10) John was operating in the context of the religious practice as it existed at the time of the incarnation of JESUS CHRIST in Israel, i.e. the Hebrew religion as practiced at that time. I will not delve very deeply into the reason for calling it a "false" religion at this time except to point out that much of it survived after the ascension and was absorbed by the ROMAN CHURCH and particularly by the Roman Catholic Church. If the earlier was false then what does it make of the latter. (Just as a brief example was the substitution of paying temple taxes in place of sacrifices, salvation by works and the RCC confessional).

●Baptism of the Holy Spirit. ( _Mat 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and_ _with_ _fire:)_ At the river where John baptized JESUS CHRIST we see the very first instance of the Holy Spirit coming down into a human body as the FATHER rejoices and publicly acclaims the joy He finds in the obedience and confession of sin (repentance) of the sinless SON. We also see that JESUS CHRIST immediately submits (humbles himself) to the authority of the Holy Spirit when He follows the Spirit's lead into the "desert"

● **Demonstration of remarkable "power" of resistance and submission.** ( **Mat 4:1** **-11** Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, _It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God._ Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, _It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God._ Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, _Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve._ Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him (emphases mine).

In complete isolation and desolation (desert) JESUS CHRIST empties Himself entirely of all and any self centeredness by embarking on a 40 day fast. At the end of this fast satan approaches with lies and deceit to tempt the entirely human JESUS CHRIST in every conceivable way. After a 40 day fast no mere human being could have withstood such temptation. BUT JESUS CHRIST was indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Clearly then thát, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, must be the only reasonable explanation of what it was that made it possible for THIS completely human MAN, JESUS CHRIST to withstand the lies, deceit and torment of satan.

Having considered the background against which JESUS CHRIST began to preach, let's look at Mtt 4:17. The phrase that CHRIST JESUS uses here is firstly the exact phrase that John the Baptist used and the fact that Matthew was inspired to record the fact is nothing less than, firstly, this is a rubber stamp of the preaching of the Baptist, i.e. an indication that the foregoing analysis of the background is correct. Thus saying that the authority of heaven is at hand confirms that something new and radically different from what existed up to that time, was about to come into existence. The authority of heaven.

It is not absolutely clear what is meant by this "authority" at this time but what did John and what did JESUS CHRIST mean by "at hand". It is derived from the Greek word _eggos_ and as I researched that word I found that the terminology was not unfamiliar in Hebrew rabbinical circles where it was often used in connection with proselytism. It is beginning from all the foregoing to emerge then that the Authority has also connected to "new religion". The Word _eggos_ or _eggizõ_ is also defined in Strong's to mean "nigh". So what JESUS CHRIST was preaching (teaching) was that a new and divine authority was near and connected to a "new" religion and conversion?

Now things are beginning to make sense. As long as "basileia" is translated as "kingdom" it all makes little sense how a territory (kingdom) can be associated with all these things is a mystery but when an authority is associated with these things it makes a lot of sense.

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3 KJV

The next use of the phrase comes from what is arguably the most significant and famous teaching of JESUS CHRIST. The "Sermon on the Mount". That teaching stands out to me as the key teaching on which the Church of JESUS CHRIST is based. It is therefore a teaching that must be seen as absolutely fundamental to the "authority of heaven".

At this time the ministry of JESUS CHRIST had progressed from Him being on his own to having called the twelve disciples and having performed many miracles and teaching that caused many people from far and wide (And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan. (Matthew 4:25 KJV). These people suddenly came to what must be seen as the appointed hour, time and place for the next major step in the revelation of what was "nigh". So rather than let this huge assembly of prospective proselytes go and find food and shelter, JESUS CHRIST decided rather to first feed the 5000 men plus women and children and then with the hunger pains stilled to teach them the fundamentals of the "new" religion.

You can see why I regard this as the "key note" of the teaching given the build up to this point.

The Word "poor" is derived from the root word _piptõ petõ_ which Thames defines as:

to descend from a higher place to a lower

to fall (either from or upon)

to be thrust down

metaphorically to fall under judgment, came under condemnation.

The word "spirit" is derived from the Greek _pneuma_ and is associated with the third person of the Trinity. Now man consists of body (clay), soul (life - nephesh) and spirit (YHWH breathed into the nostrils of man). It is the spirit of a man that dictates his behaviour and orientation. Thus, when we are vain, consider ourselves as superior to others, think we are better, assume seniority, these are all attributes of our "spirit" part of our makeup. To "lose" the foregoing attributes is the same in a manner of speaking as being impoverished from them or to be poor in them. Then "poor in spirit" is a description of a person devoid of vanity, pride, status seeking, and superiority. Such a person we now describe as **"** humble **"**. In the time JESUS CHRIST walked among us in human form the idea of humility being associated with authority would have been foreign at the very least but I venture to say that in those days (and even in our _modern_ times) the idea is revolutionary. Yet it was what JESUS CHRIST chose as the opening gambit of this most important teaching.

Humble leadership? Is that beginning to ring bells? ( _If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you._ John 13:14‭-‬15 KJV) the most familiar term in Christian circles is "servant leadership". That is what our Lord JESUS CHRIST sets as the very foundation of His teaching, His ministry and precondition for this authority. (Also see Mtt 20:26; Mark 10:42-45; Mark 9:35). John 13:16‭-‬17 _Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them._ The word here used as "happy" in the Greek was _makarios_ which is also translated as blessed and is the same word JESUS CHRIST used in Matthew 5:6. I trust that you will now see why I say JESUS CHRIST has set humility as the very foundation for this "authority of heaven".

And now again the testing of "authority" verses "kingdom". You may well say that humility in our world view now and also at the time of JESUS CHRIST'S ministry, would not be very productive in gaining either territory or authority and that therefore this proves nothing. That would be true but for the physical example of JESUS CHRIST. Here was a man who was publicly recognised by GOD the FATHER as "my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased". He was publicly baptized in the Holy Spirit, Leader of the disciples and apostles and addressed as Raboni, clearly one with enormous authority. Sceptics will be quick to add "only in certain circles". Yes, but that's true of all earthly authority, even CEO'S, even our President is nothing more than a husband or a father at home. I have therefore no doubt that _basileia_ is more correctly translated as "authority.

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10 KJV

Let's begin by looking at the word righteousness. The Greek Word used here is _dikaiosune_ ̄ and this is its definition, Thayer Definition:

1. in a broad sense: state of him who is as he ought to be, righteousness, the condition acceptable to God

a. The doctrine concerning the way in which man may attain a state approved of God

b. Integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting.

2. in a narrower sense, justice or the virtue which gives each his due.

It's safe to say that as JESUS CHRIST was the speaker and in the context of His teaching He was referring to the definition as summed up in Thayer's 1.a. there is no doubt that JESUS CHRIST knew that His teachings were controversial then even as in our time much of it is still so. That would mean then that anyone who really stood up and stood tall for this new doctrine both then and now would soon find themselves in some form of persecution. Every apostle's life and death are testimony to that fact and primarily JESUS CHRIST'S own persecution testifies to it.

What this does is to very clearly focus the attention on _basileia_ being authority. To be persecuted for the proclamation of a doctrine would require that it is spoken with a great deal of "authority" and now it's becoming relevant where that authority comes from. In business a CEO gets given his authority by the board of directors, a building foreman is given his authority by his manager; a domestic worker gets their authority from their employer. So where would the authority of those persecuted for the sake of the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST come from? (Rhetorical question).

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19 KJV

Now consider whether a territory, however you describe or attach it, can break or keep any command? On the other hand authority is vested in a person and a person on the other hand CAN break or keep a command.

Now consider further, (Matthew 3:7; 12:34; 23:33) how JESUS CHRIST again and again called the Pharisees and teachers of those days "vipers" because of their sneaky underhanded methods and false teachings and hypocritical behaviour. Time and again JESUS CHRIST warned them and made them aware of the consequences.

As much as this "authority of heaven" was at that stage a new concept it was being taught and proclaimed with enormous circumspect and (probably in view of the extent to which the Hebrew faith had become corrupted by then) made subject to unusual and demanding preconditions. And again this supports the fact that _basileia_ should always have been translated as authority because you cannot speak of setting such standards and conditions to a territory or dominion or place, but you certainly can speak that way to a person seeking to acquire "authority".

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:20 KJV

(See also comments on "righteousness" in Matthew 5:10 above).

The comments on vs. 19 about the teachers is again seen here and so what JESUS CHRIST was also teaching is that when this _basileia_ Would come that there would be no room for hypocrisy, for pretence at humility or righteousness!?

I spent many years in senior construction management and I can assure you that in human terms, where only human ability is involved, there is nothing easier than getting away with pretence and hypocrisy. Yet Here JESUS CHRIST makes it plain that it will not be possible with this _basileia_ of heaven.

Clearly this again cannot refer to territory. And so now something is revealed about the source of this authority again. Only the LORD GOD (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) has the ability to discern, without fail, chance or evidence the existence of unfeigned humility and righteousness.

Again we must conclude that not only is _basileia,_ authority, but such a special type of authority that it is becoming clear that it is given by the LORD GOD (heaven) and only when certain stringent conditions are met.

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 7:21 KJV

Up to now much of what we have been considering from the words of JESUS CHRIST Himself has tended to expose almost some kind of mutiny and that certainly was the way the scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees saw or chose to see JESUS CHRIST'S ministry.

Then JESUS CHRIST makes this declaration. We know that the Father of JESUS CHRIST is the LORD GOD and even the Hebrew "high command" knew that this, their own Elohim (LORD GOD) was who He was referring to. By making "the will of my Father " an indispensable requirement he was in fact including the Torah and even all the Hebrew inspired Scriptures, as part of the requirements. (I will return to this in part 2 but for now note that that means that that which is contained in the Old Testament as we know it is part of the requirements).

What this verse does however is to make a very significant condition part of the requirements. It means that the appointment to this authority was not, and hence what JESUS CHRIST was proclaiming was not a complete break with the past and was not a rejection or setting aside of the past. All the teachings, covenants, warnings, prophesies and experiences of the Old Testament were still and would remain in place. (This too is again referred to later in part Once again these Scriptures are addressed to mankind, people that can have authority, and so again basileia means "authority".

And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 8:11 KJV

Just in case what we have just seen in 7:21 might have made people think that JESUS CHRIST was not the promised Messiah but another prophet to the "chosen nation", this comes along. At that time the Israelites regarded everyone outside of Israel as "the Gentiles" and specifically excluded from the favour of the LORD GOD, Baal worshippers, evil people. Out of nowhere suddenly this Man JESUS CHRIST now says these gentiles will "sit down" with the Patriarchs?

To them at the time this would have been unimaginable and even blasphemous. Today we know that this was about us, about the New Covenant which was for all mankind. So this authority would be spread across the East and the West, "all nations" Matthew 28:19.

The significance of this little gem is huge. Huge because in it there is a hint that we, i.e. you and I, are somehow included in this _basileia._ Has it come and gone? Is it still to come? From vs. 11 itself it is not clear. Many "shall...", indicates that at that time it was still imminent but had not yet happened. Nevertheless we too are now included.

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 10:7 KJV

This stands in the context of JESUS CHRIST having called the twelve and sending them out to proclaim healing and the good news to the NATION OF ISRAEL. (Note also that this reinforces what I said about 7:21)

However, it is Matthew 7:1 that deserves special attention and the words "He gave them power ( _exousia_ )". I have extracted a few notes from Strong's definition of _exousia_ : "the power of authority (influence) and of right (privilege);

The power of rule or government (the power of him whose will and commands must be submitted to by others and obeyed); universally - authority over mankind.

So we have here the first giving of a hitherto unknown "authority" (power) limited in its application to the Israelites exclusively. Furthermore an authority that enabled them to perform miraculous signs against powers and diseases and then, in addition, to preach saying the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Now does it not make sense to say that they were given the authority to proclaim the authority of heaven was "at hand" by demonstrating signs and wonders? I have no doubt that this is an accurate paraphrase (by the revelation of the Holy Spirit in me).

Another move nearer understanding what this "authority of heaven" (again territory does not make sense) is all about. Clearly it is linked with "supernatural abilities" that men did not possess prior to this time. Thus again we can better equate _basileia_ with authority than "kingdom".

But go now another step further and in the full instruction of sending out the twelve JESUS CHRIST says _"For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you"._ Matthew 10:20 KJV. This is also clearly then a part of the authority (power) given them in Matthew 7:1. Thus vs.7 reveals yet another gem of massive significance. Although the Holy Spirit was known in the OT it was not known as being active in all men, only to a few like Joshua, David Jahaziel and a few other notable prophets. The LORD spoke to Abram and he obeyed and led out his family. The LORD spoke to Moses giving him the Law and Moses delivered and expanded it to the Nation. And so it goes on through the history of Patriarchs, Judges, Kings, and prophets.

The twelve would be rejected and persecuted but instead of capitulating they would demonstrate a superior intellectual power that would leave secular intelligentsia of the time baffled. Again we must ask whether one would rightly ascribe this Holy Spirit led ability to "authority" or to a kingdom. Again it must be the former.

What we have now is abundant confirmation that " _basileia"_ is more correctly "authority" and that at this time it is linked with the Holy Spirit and supernatural ability given to ordinary people BY JESUS CHRIST! This is clearly shown in all we have examined so far. Can we establish it more firmly and even unequivocally? I believe we can so we move on.

Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Matthew 11:11

This we read now in a new context where, after the detailed instructions given in the sending out of the twelve, JESUS CHRIST sets out on a mission of His own and we see His following growing to a huge number. Then the opportunity presents itself through a question from John the Baptist to make a further revelation about the _basileia_ of heaven.

JESUS CHRIST reminds them of the vast numbers that flocked to hear and see the Baptist and of the huge respect and admiration they had for this singular man. Yet, JESUS CHRIST points out, the Baptist was only a prophet in the OT tradition and though he may even have been the greatest among them, even one that had the least "authority of heaven" was greater than the Baptist.

Given the enormous respect accorded the Baptist by the multitude this was an enormously significant statement. Among the multitude there was no question, not the least doubt, that the Baptist's authority on divine matters was the greatest of his day. If the _basileia_ of the least made him more "powerful" (authoritative) than the Baptist then this _basileia_ was truly something unknown and of huge significance.

However there is more in this verse. By comparing the character of the Baptist to that of the one with the least _basileia_ of heaven, it makes the concept of kingdom completely outside of the scope of this illustration. Therefore in answer to the question at the end of the previous verse's analysis the answer is "yes we can".

And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. Matthew 11:12 KJV

Now, as if to confirm that that the _basileia_ is "authority" given to man rather than property, JESUS CHRIST points out the ever increasing and violent resistance against what was being manifested by JESUS CHRIST and the disciples. They are trying to "take it by force".

We know now that the time for the full revelation of this "it" had not yet come. That means that describing the _basileia_ as "it" was deliberate. However we do know that there was no territorial dispute between JESUS CHRIST and his disciples on the one hand and the reigning Hebrew authorities of that time. The latter were however with increasing violence and increasing regularity taking action against JESUS CHRIST and the disciples and resorting to evil plotting and entrapment. Thus what they were trying to take by force was something being manifested by a group of people with inexplicable powers (authority) that was becoming a threat to their positions.

Once again the case for "authority" is reinforced further.

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. Matthew 13:11 KJV

The message that was being proclaimed with very pointed illustrations (parables) was something so new, so huge that the multitudes generally did not yet comprehend it. We must not make the mistake of thinking it was because JESUS CHRIST spoke in what we now call parables, that was the way that most teachers and orators spoke in those days. Rather there was something about the implications of the parables that was so unknown and completely different that the Israelites could not put, as it were, two and two together as they normally would. The disciples on the other hand had been "given power", taught and trained by JESUS CHRIST and had personal experiences of something that the people had never known or heard of.

Thus it was clearly something to do with what they were "given" and that's what we discussed above about Matthew 10:1 (And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease. Matthew 10:1 KJV emphasis mine). In this instance the thing given them was limited to be used only on Hebrews (Israelites) but we have already discussed the similar translations of the words _exousia_ and _basileia_. Given all that it was understandable why it was and what it was about which JESUS CHRIST said that _to them it is not given._

Again then we can confirm confidently the _basileia_ should be read as authority.

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: Matthew 13:24 KJV

The choice of words here for "good" is interesting. The word used _kalos_ rather than _agathos_ (intrinsically good, quality). _Kalos_ on the other hand is generally used more in a moral sense (beautiful, handsome, excellent, eminent, choice, surpassing, and precious, useful, suitable, commendable, and admirable

●beautiful to look at, shapely, magnificent

good, excellent in its nature and characteristics, and therefore well adapted to its ends

●genuine, approved precious

●joined to names of men designated by their office, competent, able, such as one ought to be praiseworthy, noble

●beautiful by reason of purity of heart and life, and hence praiseworthy morally good, noble

●honourable, conferring honour

○affecting the mind agreeably, comforting and confirming

Thayer Definition)

The "seed" is derived from the word _sperma_ which variously is used also of offspring, progeny and of the Holy Spirit.

While then this parable draws a parallel between the known fact that top quality seed yields larger and better quality harvest, the specific choice of words also implies that something in heaven consists of Spirit filled progeny (children of the LORD GOD or disciples of JESUS CHRIST) that will produce good harvest. A territory or the authority? Using "authority" would yield something like: "The authority of heaven will come (from the "at hand" that has not yet been replaced with "here") to the Spirit filled disciples so that they will yield good (spectacular) returns.

Again the term "authority" makes far more sense than kingdom. In addition it is completely fitting as the ministry of JESUS CHRIST progresses so gradually more details are being given about this "authority".

Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Matthew 13:31 KJV

I will not dwell here in much detail. A "grain" of mustard seed (so small it's more correctly termed a spore) produces a plant that is huge by comparison and will produce literally millions of sperms. In Matthew 17:20 JESUS CHRIST tells us **faith** as small as a mustard seed will move mountains.

Now that we have the authority of heaven in men of faith (i.e. men who have the Baptism of the Holy Spirit) will move continents (i.e. will change the world!? Yes?)

Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. Matthew 13:33 KJV

Just briefly try this on for size: The authority of heaven will be placed in three (symbolic of the twelve?) And will spread to all mankind. The authority of heaven has this once realised and displayed but now very much hidden potential that I can no longer leave hidden from the disciples of JESUS CHRIST.

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Matthew 13:44 KJV

I feel that I have established sufficiently substantially by now that _basileia_ should be interpreted as "authority" so unless something particularly poignant crops up I will from here just see how that JESUS CHRIST gradually reveals more about this authority while preparing the disciples and the world for its "arrival".

This time JESUS CHRIST places a value on the authority of heaven. He describes it as so precious, so desirable that men would give up everything they had (life?) to "buy that field" (to be born again?) to "buy a new life".

So not only will men of faith have a deep desire for this authority, so much so that they will die for it, but it will change them completely or they will have to change completely, (new birth).

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Matthew 13:45 KJV

Those to whom it will be given will stand out as top and choice salesperson (merchantmen) and will use it to win others. So though it will elevate people in one sense it will only be given for the purpose of benefitting others. Now that's new. Mankind will give their lives willingly for it in recognition of its unsurpassable value and yet in worldly terms they personally will derive no benefit from it.

I am beginning to see a measure of complexity in this "authority" that one may expect to find in the character of a person but would struggle to ascribe to a kingdom.

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: Matthew 13:47 KJV

This may be just a short verse but I am being shown by Ruach HaKodesh the huge ramifications of it. It addresses both the issue of timing and of who would qualify for it. The latter is more obvious so here it is first. "Gathered of every kind" can only have one clear meaning. Different kinds of fish sure must mean none other than all the nations on earth. But that would mean including the "gentiles" and in the context of JESUS CHRIST'S ministry that would be regarded as an abomination.

That is why it addresses the timing. Remember the authority (power) JESUS CHRIST gave to the disciples He sent out was limited to application only to Israel? Then here we finally get the answer to why this authority is "at hand" but not yet come. For this authority to involve the despised gentiles, the hated Roman oppressors and the whoring intellectualism of the Greeks something major would need to happen. After all, the only Covenant that existed involving heaven at that time was between the LORD GOD and Israel. Clearly though this substantiates why the authority (power) given to the disciples was a limited "sample" of the "authority of heaven".

Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. Matthew 13:52 KJV

At the end of the current series of parables JESUS CHRIST, after asking whether the followers had understood, makes another remark that again has more than one implication. He begins by saying that to every **scribe** that this authority is given...

The words of JESUS CHRIST are never spoken randomly and without purpose. Here we see that JESUS CHRIST does not say "the scribes" or anything that may indicate that this authority would _only_ be given to scribes (especially or highly qualified spiritual teachers). However where it was given to them the spiritual teachers) they were to apply that authority as the heads of the household (i.e. for the building up of the "house"{Church of JESUS CHRIST?) Bringing to it both the old and the new. (note that it is now a scientifically proven fact that neither is the "intelligence quotient" of a person unchangeable and that the mind or brain of and older person does not degenerate, that in fact older people really are wiser and have greater knowledge than their younger counterparts and that the capacity of the brain of mankind is barely touched by all we already know. (HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version) that this fact is so was clearly proven by the fact that the bulk of the apostles where "uneducated" fishermen.

Wow! Having now seen it like that I'm sure you've seen the implication. The "Old" refers to all the Law and the Prophets (essentially what we know as the Old Testament) and then something "New" as well. Yet at that time none of the New Testament books had been written yet. The only "New" then that JESUS CHRIST could be referring to was what he had and would still bring. This has a major implication for this dawning authority in particular as far as the relationship between the Old Covenant and the house or CHURCH of JESUS CHRIST is concerned and is a fundamental refutation of Preterism. Important though as this is I will deal with this in more detail in the last section of part 2.

(There follows upon this verse and 16:19 a lengthy interlude in the mention of the authority (kingdom) of heaven. During this time we see the ministry of JESUS CHRIST moving near (Nazareth) and far, multitudes flocking to hear him, confrontation with the Pharisees over false teachings and traditions and extensive teaching of the twelve leading to the fact that due to the limited authority given to them they and specifically Peter) are the first recognise clearly who He is. Only then does JESUS CHRIST return to this central theme of His teaching)

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt lose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19 KJV

The question that I found most useful here and to which I received the most revealing answer was "why now"? The fact that by recognising Him as JESUS CHRIST meant that they had recognised Him as the prophesied and promised Messiah, that they were beginning to understand that the something "New" referred to above was now unavoidable. There was about to come a major shift in the relationship between Israel and the LORD GOD that would be far more inclusive of the Gentiles as well. The only thing in its enormity that remotely approaches the enormity of this understanding was perhaps the dropping of the bomb on Hiroshima. That changed the course of human history to an extent but this realisation of the apostles spelt out an event that would have the biggest influence on the course of history in the entire present history of the earth and will only be superseded by the Rapture, Tribulation and Second Coming of JESUS CHRIST.

Now, because they had recognised this, the presence of the Promised Messiah and the drawing near of the "New", JESUS CHRIST undertook to give them the key to the authority of heaven. We will come back to that. Then this revelational definition that I believe sets the final seal on _basileia_ being correctly translated as authority. "... _whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt lose on earth shall be loosed in heaven_ _"_. Now that is saying that they will have "Divine" authority, the authority then vested in JESUS CHRIST, that puts the "kingdom" interpretation to rest as far as I am concerned.

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, _Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven._ Matthew 18:1-4 KJV

Remember that this comes after some significant events in which JESUS CHRIST foretells his death and resurrection, spoke about the need to die to self and become so tied to JESUS CHRIST as to become like Him in every way, the transfiguration, an incidence of healing that can only be accomplished with divine authority and obedience to civil society. From all this there came a growing awareness among the twelve that the death of JESUS CHRIST was drawing near.

When the CEO of a business dies suddenly or comes close to retiring or the end of his term of office, what happens? There arises a need for a replacement. Those who think they might have a chance to be given the position start "making their moves" and those of us that have been there and seen the resulting actions know just how ugly it can get and how often wives, mothers and or close family and friends join in on the assault to the throne. The top motivation comes from the desire to be the "top dog" but also in it all there is a realisation that if the business is to survive firstly and grow secondly there is no time to waste.

So, bear with the disciples. JESUS CHRIST Himself has told them the time was near so there too the need for a successor was becoming clear and so they did exactly what mankind does in the business environment. They had not only already understood that JESUS CHRIST was the promised Messiah, but by that time they also must have understood that the "authority of heaven" was central to the proclamation of the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST and they must have had a pretty clear understanding of this authority already. So their real question was then about whom of them would take the place of JESUS CHRIST as the leader (sit at His right hand) of the apostles. As it turned out JESUS CHRIST did not make any appointments but used the occasion to put some important teaching in place about His successor or successors.

The first was that they had to become like little children and then that the "little children" where to be specially protected from injury. What did that say about the authority of heaven? Two very vital things.

Firstly that matter of the little child. Show a lively little boy a movie of a superhero and watch what he does. It is a documented fact and I have personally seen friends jumping off roofs thinking they can fly. They don't question. You say it they believe it. The same applies to this authority of heaven. It was (and still is) something so huge that the normal adult mind cannot comprehend it. Most adults are very quick to say "it cannot be done" when they have to use existing resources to do something that has never been done with them before. So that's what JESUS CHRIST was saying. They would be told what the "authority" meant in full, they would be appointed to their roles but the effects and implications were so completely different from the familiar that they would have to start off by simply believing without understanding in full. They would, for example, have to believe that the authority they had would enable them to perform miracles, cast out demons ... withstand the pains of martyrdom. Now I know this sounds strange to our ears. Take however, as an example, yourself immediately after your baptism in the Holy Spirit and asking for the authority of heaven. An hour or so later somebody asks you to pray for the life of a young child that has just drowned. What would you do and feel? I can clearly remember the first time I prayed for the casting out of demonic spirits from another person. I also remember being terrified of being asked to do it again. But if I had been the little boy I would have "jumped off the roof" without a second thought. That was the point JESUS CHRIST was making. The greater their and our ability to accept and believe without necessarily understanding, the greater will be our use and the effect we have on the world with this authority.

The second was about the protection of the little children. We've all I'm sure heard by now that a millstone weighed on average about five ton. With that tied around my neck and then being thrown in the "deep end" I don't have two chances, I definitely have only one, I WILL drown? The thing that strikes me that JESUS CHRIST knew was that this authority would on the one hand require a lot of gentle encouragement and nursing to unleash its full potential and on the other it would, just as in His own case; result in terrible persecution from certain quarters (and not all of them human). In the light of this JESUS CHRIST sought to give them the assurance that they would not only not stand alone against these odds, but they would receive unwavering support and the opposition would not get away with it. What would make us quicker to pray for the little drowned child than this kind of reassurance?

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. Matthew 18:23 KJV

There follows here the parable of the unforgiving servant who was set free from his debt to the king and then refused to do unto others as was done unto him. JESUS CHRIST had been telling them about the lost sheep and how to treat them that sin against you. (Note that heathens and publicans are the very people to whom the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST is to be proclaimed).

The warning that comes with this parable is both direct and covert. The direct warning deals with our general salvation and the words of the Prayer JESUS CHRIST taught the disciples - "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that trespassed against us". Whether we like it or not and accept it or not the implication of this is clear and unavoidable. I really don't think I need here to go into detail about it.

Now what is the covert warning? It is this that JESUS CHRIST was warning the disciples of and it made me wonder, when it was first revealed to me, how did this affect Judas Iscariot? Was it this that finally pushed him over the edge - knowing that he had tasted this authority) you see its works like this. By the time the disciples and in particular the apostles (and we ourselves) would receive this authority it is beyond words to describe how much debt of theirs and ours would have been set aside. First in our salvation the full debt of sin (the wages of sin is death) has been set aside by the perfect atonement once for all by JESUS CHRIST to which fact we attest in the water baptism. Then our human frailty is compensated for by the indwelling to the full extent of the Holy Spirit in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and then our inability to do as human beings what is required is supplemented by granting us the divine authority of heaven. Friend, that pales out of existence the unforgiving servant's debt. Therefore if we abuse that position by unforgiveness and treachery they and we too would be tormented forever. And again I get a vision of Judas in despair hanging himself knowing he had no way to escape this).

For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it. Matthew 19:12 KJV

Whether we are born with the aptitude to abstain from reproduction, or forced into it by castration or do so with the use of tremendous willpower, you will agree with me that fir the average person the abstinence is as near impossible as makes no difference.

Yet this is exactly what is required by JESUS CHRIST for a qualification to receive the authority of heaven. The implication is vast. It's a lifestyle unlike anything known or proclaimed in today's media. I look at the humility, the detailed humility of one of my mentors. He always writes his full names in small letters, any praise accorded him will result in an IMMEDIATE reply of all glory and honour belongs to the JESUS CHRIST. Of course there is much more as you can imagine from such detail. I look at his alertness in his faith. He regularly travels a particularly dangerous road to one of his ministries. I recently asked him to sms me on arrival there and his return home. He replied that he and I and 12 other intercessors had prayed and always pray for his safety on that road so he knew he was in GOD'S hands. That was enough so he would not be sending the sms's.

Living in and with the full authority of heaven demands a lifestyle that most men (and women) in our current societies cannot understand or attain in our own strength and can only be achieved by a lifestyle of complete surrender to the authority of the Holy Spirit and do not confuse that with humility. It sure does require humility but it also demands an uncommon and absolute obedience (therefore likened to voluntary castration).

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:14 KJV

Here JESUS CHRIST has moved to a different aspect of the teaching of His Gospel that may be difficult for you, my friend, to understand if you grew up in a "Christian home".

I grew up in a home of parents who called themselves atheist and behaved like agnostics, much of their instruction bordered on new age... confusion? Sure but I believe that is common to all non Christian homes. However the result was that I grew up without a compass or foundation. Choosing a life partner was done without any other consideration than physical attraction. My children grew up with very little more guidance than I did except that they did attend Sunday school and church. The point is that it has been an enormous mountain I've had to climb to develop an intimate relationship with JESUS CHRIST and I don't think it was much easier for my children. In addition I was largely ostracised in my youth because I grew up in South Africa where it was regarded as a crime against humanity not to attend "church" dressed better than the previous week, give for all to see even more than a tenth, regardless of the condition of domestic finances, and children to be awarded 100% attendance certificates for Sunday school. If you did not match up you were not suitable for their kids to be seen with. I can complicate the situation much further but that will add little effect. Children become adults and then probably parents. If they come from a background without Christian values or "false" Christian background, they will start with and perpetuate for many generations a youth that start life's walk with an enormous backlog in the understanding and practice of a faith in JESUS CHRIST, the Father and the Holy Spirit.

On the contrary I look at one of my stepson's that grew up in a God fearing home with a mother that truly loved the LORD, that married a woman whom I had the privilege to help commit her life to the Lord, who attended a course on Christian parenting when their first child was due and now have three children aged 19, 16 and 9 who have all accepted JESUS CHRIST as their personal Lord and Saviour and who have a life ethic and behaviour in general that is enviable to say the least. I have no doubt that our great grandchildren will be even more comfortable in the faith.

And that is the point of "suffering the little children to come unto me". It demands that the parents get on the right path in order to show the children the way to salvation, foundational life values and solid principles on which to make life choices.

We have already seen that the authority of heaven will impart power beyond known human experience and understanding especially at the time of JESUS CHRIST'S earthly ministry but to a very real extent even ( or should that be again) in the present. Let me end this verse's understanding by concluding that there is therefore now no... greater gift we can give our children than a well rounded solid and Biblical upbringing.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 19:23 KJV

So rich men can't go to heaven, like you can't go to heaven in a Ford V8? Sure that's what it says as it stands but what does it say when you put in authority in its right place?

Merriam Webster defines rich as "having abundant possessions and especially material wealth". To have that one would need in most cases to be a hoarder. Someone that hangs on to what they've gathered and would part with as little of it as possible. My neighbour worked for a business where people were all earning under 15k a month and were all on half pay for more than 6 months of last year, this while the owner was drawing a monthly salary of 70k plus benefits. Such facts are common and hence the saying "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer."

So scarce is it that the rich give freely that such have a special name, philanthropists. Webster defines them as "one who makes an active effort to promote human welfare". Note that does not include self promotion by using your excess wealth or purporting towards philanthropy to cover up undesirable or illegal activity. Take those out of the frame and we will be left with very few "rich" men that give freely to those in need. From all the requirements for the authority of heaven already discussed the behaviour of "rich men" therefore mitigates against them having such authority with very few exceptions. In other words as far as rich men are concerned it is not their wealth itself that precludes them having such "heavenly-authority", but their behaviour or their character.

For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. Matthew 20:1 KJV

The householder is the head if the house or the owner of the house and its property. When he hires people to do work for him he will generally pay the least amount he can. That's just the simple law of supply and demand. In this parable there is no indication that the "penny" wage was below par so let's first take it that the wage was the minimum that was required for a day's reasonable survival with reasonable food and clothing. We also have seen that the term householder is applied to those who run their households and properties effectively and so we can assume that the first group of men hired would have been enough to accomplish the task at hand after a fair days work and even the second may have been necessary due to some mishap or unforeseen circumstance. But then clearly the rest were people that the householder saw that were in need. Just look on the street corners of our suburbs in South Africa these days and in every town and village you'll see them waiting in anticipation till well after midday.

The common practice here is to hire a casual worker (year 2020) for around R150.00 a day in the Westrand area. However as the day progresses this "minimum" wage would generally be reduced in proportion to the portion of the day worked and few, very few care whether that means that those getting less will probably go without a decent meal or starve.

So we see then that in the first instance it is a parable about minimum standards and a minimum amount of giving based on what the minimum is that something effective can be achieved with.

JESUS CHRIST describes the authority of heaven as being like that. That means that when this authority acts it will firstly do nothing less than provide that which is necessary for an effective completion of the task at hand. Secondly it means that that authority will not act differently towards different people or groups i.e. it won't be biased.

The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, Matthew 22:2 KJV

A great deal happened between JESUS CHRIST and the disciples that is described in the two chapters between this and the previous verse and most of it is about JESUS CHRIST telling his disciples that the end of his earthly ministry was drawing near and in confrontation with the Pharisees and temple merchants. Then he addressed this parable about the authority of heaven to the Pharisees.

With a play on the history of Israel, JESUS CHRIST explains here that there are three things to keep in mind about this authority.

Firstly there is a specific invitation to a chosen nation but they rejected it. Then the invitation was sent out to them again by sending the promised Messiah but again most ignored it and the rest killed the "servant". Finally it was sent out to all who they came across and there were a lot of takers. Some of these were sincere and would celebrate with their king. Others were wolves in sheep's clothing but the king saw through their guise and their fate was eternal damnation. In the end only a few were left.

That's in short the narrative and what it teaches is that this authority of heaven is:

●Patient as the Lord God had been since he chose Israel as "my people and I will be your God".

●It is forgiving up to 70 times 7 but there will come an end to its patience/forgiving.

●When the authority is rejected by one there will be others to whom it will be given. An awesome thought is that in the end "few" will accept it in truth and few will ultimately attend the "wedding feast" but I will elaborate on that in part two.

●The authority cannot be acquired under false pretence; the "King" will detect it.

This passage as you've probably already realised, also not only addresses the Rapture-Tribulation-Second coming period but has clear implications for both Israel and the Church of JESUS CHRIST'S followers. I have not missed that but as with the remaining verses our focus for now is on the "authority" and other factors will be dealt with in part two.

But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Matthew 23:13 KJV

At the time of this warning there was clearly a struggle between the highest authority of the faith of Israel and the authority of JESUS CHRIST and although at that time their hostility was directed toward JESUS CHRIST specifically it was obvious that it would not end there. The reason being that the Pharisees would not accept JESUS CHRIST as the promised Messiah because not only were their characters not in line with any of the essentials we have so far seen listed by JESUS CHRIST but even more so because they felt their "own authority" (i.e. derived from their own manipulation and corruption as opposed to divine authority), was being threatened and they were not prepared to submit to a new authority.

Now what was JESUS CHRIST teaching about the authority of heaven through this situation? Clearly that authority was not blind to the attitudes, the plans and the scheming the Pharisees were engaged in. In society, both then and know, what happens when authority is challenged and opposed? Without going into lengthy descriptions it would be war! But not so here. The authority of heaven will simply warn (woe) the opposing element of the ultimate consequences. ("Brother, remember, the word "woe" in both Hebrew and Greek means "Calamity and disaster waits". In other words: "calamity and disaster waits for you scribes and Pharisees..." tiaan gildenhuys).

What we learn from this is that the authority is fearless (it remains unflustered in the face of violent opposition, it is not confrontational (will lay out its demands/choices/rewards and allow the other to decide without pressure) and patience is again confirmed. However the highest quality (and that only in my humble opinion) is confidence!

With so much emphasis as we have already seen on humility and dependence this seems almost a contradiction until you remember the term "quietly confident". When you think about quiet confidence and ask what brings it on there is only one clear answer and I'm not including skulduggery like inside information. It comes from a deep trust in something outside the situation concerned. Clearly in this instance that is trust in JESUS CHRIST (faith), and where does that come from? Not from self but from the LORD (Ephesians 2:8). So the light goes on. Like faith the authority of heaven is not gain from our own selves but like faith it is the gift of JESUS CHRIST So that WE CAN'T BOAST in it or the results of it. No "self made men" in this formula, no pharisees or scribes or sadducees here, no Trumps or Zumas or... Instead humble, obedient, submissive and ardent servants. Here's a familiar thing then, have we ever wondered what the proper origin is of the term "servant leadership"? The authority is given to serve and not to command, to labour and not to demand, to use and not to hide it. Is that "revolutionary"? We had better believe it. Clearly nothing, or at best very little about the authority of heaven is as it is understood in general in our society.

Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. Matthew 25:1 KJV

The general explanation of this parable is so well known, and correct, that I will not dwell on it.

But how is the "kingdom of heaven" (authority) likened to that. That then should not be difficult or surprising and is clearly that it will only be given to those ready and prepared for it in good time. Considering then where this verse stands in the Gospel of Matthew when will that time be and do we know or can we know it. Well from the general understanding of this parable it's clear that it will only be given up until the time of the Rapture. From Acts 2:1-4 we know it will not be before the day of Pentecost, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. From Pentecost onward the only other limiting factor is preparedness and that (in my opinion) means having an intimate knowledge of the Word of God and an understanding of the effect of blessings and curses on the health of mankind, over and above the baptisms and intimate relationship with Christ Jesus.

For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. Matthew 25:14 KJV

The final verse with these now familiar words makes me get goose bumps all over... this time the parable is about a man, not a king or a Pharisees or a householder but a man, any man, you and me. It's only when we read on that we realise that this "man" here is JESUS CHRIST that addresses Himself as "a man". A man going into a far country, what does that mean? All that the Greek helps here is to bring in the word foreign but that's useful enough as the very word implies the unknown. The second part just confirms again that he/we will go into the unknown to serve and not be served.

I firmly believe that JESUS CHRIST referring to himself as "a man" is done with a specific purpose and that is to show and explain to us that when we qualify for the authority of heaven and ask for it, that we must realise and expect to walk the road the He did. It will be required of us to do much that is foreign to human traditional thought and behavioural patterns. To illustrate this let us just take the issue of celebrating false traditions and worshipping idols and relate that to the twenty fifth of December. In the world churches there can hardly be a clergyman left that can claim to be ignorant of the pagan implications of keeping that festival. Yet very few have eliminated if from their churches and some openly support it and prohibit teaching against it. The resistance to that teaching alone is overbearing so imagine when one endowed with the authority of heaven comes to town and begins to show that this authority is not limited to the clergy but is there for all mankind, for everyone, for you and even for me.

Then the important implication of the rest of the parable is firstly that the authority is not to be served but to serve, i.e. it's not for those who "put it in safe hiding place under our mattresses (or in the ground), but is to be used to bring salvation to mankind, healing, casting out of demonic forces, teaching and the bread of life. The urgent and imperative need for this is illustrated by the fact that current prayers for healing in churches are only successful in a maximum of 5% of cases even when the most invalid adjustments are made to raise the figure. Now some may do so very effectively and even receive a good deal of media coverage while others may operate largely "under cover" in their local communities and groups and JESUS CHRIST will be pleased with both and reward both, but woe (see "woe" above) to those who are given the authority and hide it under a bush or restrict its power. From them even their salvation will be taken away (Matthew 25:30): you are surprised? You've been told that once saved always saved, you CANNOT lose your salvation!? My friend that is not from the Word of God, you will not find anything in it to support that argument. It is a lie from satan himself to deceive you and lull you into a false sense of security and specifically to "bury your salvation, your authority and to disobey the great commission we are given by JESUS CHRIST after the resurrection". This parable is confirmation from JESUS CHRIST'S own mouth.

In part two of this paper I will deal with what these 32 verses mean to us.

_The term Kingdom of heaven is not mentioned again by_ _Matthew._ _The rest of the Gospel of Matthew deals with the end of JESUS CHRIST'S time on earth and in it there are two sections that are important in the understanding of the kingdom or as we've seen the "authority". These are the institution of the LORD'S SUPPER (i.e. the NEW COVENANT) and the "Great Commission"._

And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom. Matthew 26:26‭-‬29 KJV

This, the "Last Supper", happened just hours before the torment of our LORD JESUS CHRIST would begin that would end in the Crucifixion. Soon after this JESUS CHRIST the man would not be in a position any longer to do what He wants to but would be at the mercy of various opposition leaders until the moment He gives up His Spirit. In the history of the world it is arguably the most significant moment. It was a moment that would have a greater effect on the history of mankind than the calling by the LORD GOD of Abram, the Covenant between Israel and the LORD GOD or any other divine or secular event in history. It would later be heralded as the agreement or more correctly Covenant, which brought about the most significant change in human behaviour in world history. The announcement of the Covenant and the symbol of it were instituted simultaneously with a finality that is stunning. If it were a mathematician concluding his latest theorem he would have firmly announced QED (Quod Erat Demonstrandum) (what had to be proved has been proved).

It must have been puzzling to the disciples at the time and let's not lose sight of the fact that we now know and have access to historical facts that at that time were still in the future. Hence we can now say with certainty that the QED is quite appropriate. The proof was complete that the LORD GOD'S chosen nation had backslidden beyond forgivable/acceptable limits and rejected the only hope of salvation they had by rejecting the promised Messiah. A turning point had been reached where the LORD GOD because of his love for mankind had to intervene to save the creation. The time had come for a new Covenant, a Covenant that would not only apply to the chosen nation (but would include them, yes INCLUDE Israel), but would be between JESUS CHRIST and all mankind.

Note too, crucially, that as JESUS CHRIST broke the bread and raised the cup, these were clearly symbolic of His Body and Blood that TAKE AWAY the sin of the entire world. This replaces the lambs and goats and doves that were symbolic of the SACRIFICE that was COVERING the sins under the Old Covenant. Nowhere in the Word of God are the Eucharist elements ever described as being, or magically becoming, the literal Body and Blood of JESUS CHRIST.

Why this detail at this point of the investigation into the authority of heaven? I am led by the Holy Spirit that the fact that this event stands so soon after the last teaching in Matthew about the authority has a very significant meaning. A meaning that explains also why the disciples were empowered only to reach out to Israel. The implication is that in order for the authority of heaven to be made manifest to man, a new order had to be put in place and that was done at this very significant event. We know now from this and the Resurrection and the time and events up to and including the Ascension, that a new way of bringing about reconciliation between the LORD GOD and mankind had to be found, a once for all for all time perfect way that the LORD GOD would make available or in legal jargon "offer" to mankind and mankind had to simply accept in faith to be reconciled to The LORD GOD to begin the process of acquiring this authority. In legal terminology the principle is that there is no legally binding contract between parties until there has been both an offer made, and an offer accepted and it is exactly the same with the New Covenant between the Lord and mankind; the Lord gives the gift of faith (Eph 2:8), but mankind must accept the offer of salvation for the Covenant to be activated.

Allow me to end this portion by appealing to all believers to:

●Take a serious new look at the meaning and purpose of the institution of the LORD'S SUPPER (or Holy Communion).

●To separate fact from fiction in keeping this symbol pure and meaningful.

●To partake of it "in memory of JESUS CHRIST" (1 Cor 11:24)... do so often. Do so where there is unanimous agreement of its meaning and purpose even if this limits us to sharing only with our spouse.

●The use of unleavened bread is not a Christian necessity. That need was fulfilled at Calvary and the HOLY SPIRIT now prompts and reminds us of our sin.

From this point Matthew's Gospel moves very rapidly to its conclusion with the Great Commission. This is possibly because Matthew was writing to the Jews and because they had in any event rejected JESUS CHRIST and Matthew was in any event inspired by the Holy Spirit to write as he did. That I'm afraid is how I am led to understand it and it will therefore be necessary to do two things:

1. Recognise that there are a few outstanding facts that must be addressed and because these are not found clearly in Matthew's Gospel I will take them from the other Gospels.

2. In the interest of clarity and keeping focused I will not spend overly much time and detail on how the other Scriptures are linked to the authority of heaven study

Gospel of Luke and Book of Acts.

We move on then through the Crucifixion, death, resurrection, visit to His Father in heaven and to his first appearance to the assembled disciples.

And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. Luke 24:36‭-‬39 KJV

I am sure firstly that the "visit to His Father in heaven" in the summary above raised many an eyebrow. First look at some facts. After his resurrection neither the women nor the two on the Emmaus road recognised JESUS CHRIST. Now if he had appeared ripped apart from head to toe in an unrecognisable gore that would have been what they expected. But he appeared in a new and perfect body in which only certain nail and spear marks where still recognisable and these must have been hidden from the women and Emmaus couple. The fact that JESUS CHRIST appeared as He did shows that he must have been with the Father to receive, amongst others, His glorified Spiritual body, a body capable of moving through solid objects on the one hand and yet eat food like we do. Remember this now that JESUS CHRIST came to us in human form because only in that way could he bring about reconciliation between mankind and the LORD GOD. Having returned this time as the Divine JESUS CHRIST is final proof that the task had been successfully completed. Therefore He would clearly be returning to the FATHER soon.

From the 32 Matthew verses it would seem that JESUS CHRIST had told us all there was about the authority of heaven and yet up to this point JESUS CHRIST has only revealed that He is risen, that He is alive, "it is finished" and still the authority was not yet "given". That seems then to me to be a kind of "sign" that the disciples then and us now need to proceed with extreme care and attention. Probably thát then was the overriding purpose of these events.

And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49 KJV

Indeed then JESUS CHRIST'S teachings from the Scriptures and teaching about their fulfilment confirm the above conclusions and now He does announce the impending:

1. The giving of the COMFORTER (John 14:16), (the promise of the FATHER). Some of you may here be wondering whether the disciples had not already received the Holy Spirit in full measure. No they had not because they had JESUS CHRIST Himself with them so it had not yet been necessary AND that also explains more why they had been "holed up in fear" (Luke 24:38).

2. The "endowment" of the power _(dunamis)_. Here we must note that JESUS CHRIST uses not the term _basileia_ but _dunamis_. What we have here is new and so far unmentioned. What then is this? Let's go back to the start of the ministry of JESUS CHRIST. First he was baptised in water by full immersion by John the Baptist (now we know that in that JESUS CHRIST would have received the Paracletos, the Comforter, or the Holy Spirit. However then there was another event, another first time occurrence, an "outpouring" from heaven. As the FATHER announced "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" there appeared a dove from heaven that descended upon JESUS CHRIST. That we now know was JESUS' Baptism in the Holy Spirit, the _dunamis_.

At this point Luke continues with the details of the days immediately following on the Resurrection in the first two chapters of the book of the Acts.

And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Acts 1:4‭-‬5 KJV

These verses then confirm what I described above and then JESUS CHRIST issues a command that, praise the LORD GOD, the apostles obeyed. "WAIT" (in their case they were told "not many days") for this until JESUS CHRIST acts. This then is an addition to the 32 texts from Matthew and something every one of us must, and will, learn the hard way (unless we have already learnt the lessons of patience and humility and our hearts are pure (Jer 17:10).

However even the disciples, with typical human impatience, wanted to know if and when the authority would be "restored" to Israel (bear in mind that from the time they had been sent out they had been restricted to Israel and that had not yet changed|).

And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. Acts 1:7‭-‬8 KJV

How many times have we asked for something anxiously expecting an answer instantly in this "instant" society of ours? In fact I found, and I think that goes for all of us, the more "instant" my expectations, the longer is the time of the LORD GOD. Why is that? Dear brother/sister in JESUS CHRIST, it's all about humility and recognising that the "basileia" is not from me, I don't own it, I may only apply it under the licence conditions and terms. The LORD GOD will wait until that is clear in my/our minds.

Only then will " _the Holy Ghost come upon"_ us and only after the Baptism of the Holy Spirit will they/we receive the "basileia".

But now we see an instruction that is unique in the history of mankind. It is an instruction that has had the greatest impact of any command or ordinance in world history. The apostles and disciples gathered there were the first that heard that from that time forward the salvation of mankind had become a universal offering from JESUS CHRIST not only to Israel, but to all mankind. Can you imagine how that rocked the boat? Can you see why there had to be a time of learning, understanding and acceptance by the assembled disciples before the authority could be given? And dear friend the need is still the same for us to this day. JESUS CHRIST will give the authority to all who deserve it AND ARE READY FOR IT and who are OBEDIENT to Him. Even in our time we cannot expect to receive the unbridled authority until we understand its full potential and its intended use.

And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. Acts 1:13‭-‬14 KJV

After the above and final instruction of JESUS CHRIST He ascended into "the kingdom of the LORD GOD, the FATHER".

But it is very significant what happened and what they did after that. I can safely say that there is ample evidence of the Holy Spirit having been given to them as promised in the water baptism. That's what happened which is revealed by what they did. (Face it mankind without the Holy Spirit would have been far more likely to scatter and run into hiding than to gather together but with the already baptised disciples that had the guidance of the Holy Spirit all were influenced by the disciples leadership). They all assembled together and prayed and discussed each other's fears, experience and learning. I wish I could have been in that assembly. So much excitement, learning from each other, growing in knowledge and understanding, hope, anticipation... fearlessness in humility and readiness and then...!

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:2‭-‬4 KJV

And then came Pentecost and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, a divine outpouring of the full might of GOD the HOLY SPIRIT to rest upon and abide within them. They began to manifest this as they spoke in many official languages (and yes they sure also spoke in heavenly tongues). The Baptism of the Holy Spirit had enabled them to speak languages they had only heard but never understood and in the like manner the later fruits of their labour reveals that they understood from that time the full eschatological implication of all the WORD OF GOD.

What also happened for them at the same point in time (as evidenced by the miracles and healings (physical diseases) and casting out of demonic spirits (psychosomatic disorders) throughout their subsequent ministries) was that they finally received the Authority of heaven. That act, the giving of that authority together with the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is the only rational explanation not only why the Great Commission had such a unique impact on the world but also why it marches on and is unstoppable to this very day even if we have for now lost much of the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the authority of heaven.

END PART 1:

THESE are all the pertinent facts around the authority of heaven or "kingdom" of heaven as it has been passed on for 2000 years. I am deeply convinced by the manifestation of the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT, that the conclusion reached by this textual analysis is one hundred percent the will and intention of JESUS CHRIST in this term and that the implication of the "authority of heaven" opens up to all who are in JESUS CHRIST a completely new and empowering dimension to our Christian living and witness. That dear friend will be the focus of part 2 of this book.

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN-PART 2

INTRODUCTORY NOTE TO PART 2

I described in Part 1 something of my own youth and Christian walk. Because of that and over the years seeing many others who only came to know JESUS CHRIST as adults AND because many who did grow up in "Christian homes" were very poorly instructed I may at times seem to some to be saying the obvious. If some are offended by that I apologise but I am persuaded without the least doubt that it is in the best interest of the majority to be stating the obvious rather than excluding the most uninformed.

CHAPTER 2 Putting it all together: to WHOM this authority can be given.

2.1. Those that Repent

From the examination in Part 1 the foundation that is laid by first John the Baptist and then affirmed by JESUS CHRIST is that of Repentance. That is the first and indestructible requirement laid down in order for anyone to be given the authority. Repentance stems from the Greek word _metanoeô_ which is about a change of mind. It is all about a departure from one way, laying it down or more properly laying the old way to rest, thereby clearing the mind so that only the new, and by implication the pure, can find place in the mind

The OT (Old Testament) religion was very much centred on salvation by works. Built into all the religious feasts and ceremonies were countless actions that required physical or outwardly visible demonstration. Blood or grain sacrifices, no cutting of hair or shaving of beards, forms of abstinence and the like were "counted unto him (them) as righteousness" however it had little effect on the vast majority and the "works" became watered down to what essentially became a financial payment for forgiveness (buying doves in the forecourts at hideous prices) and **No sign of remorse or repentance** (an early form of "buying salvation" (penance) that Catholicism perpetuated and perfected). Though these systems where upheld and promoted by the clergy of the times they were of no benefit to mankind and wholly unacceptable to the LORD GOD

The repentance that was required by the Baptist and JESUS CHRIST was one that brought forth "fruits meet for repentance" (Matthew 3:8) which is a biblical way of saying that results in changing my/your behaviour from sinful to sinless, evil to good. When we have repented it causes our past desires and emotions to be wiped out which outwardly begins with an uninhibited mind (the result of being "born again") together with remorse and obedience to the will of the LORD GOD. This was the foundation laid by the Baptist and JESUS CHRIST and the proclamation that was to be taken to all nations after the resurrection and the ascension (Luke 24:47). It is a repentance born from the love of the LORD GOD toward all mankind, a love born from "I felt my heart strangely warmed" (Charles Wesley at Aldersgate) that leads to salvation and not a worldly kind of repentance that is born from being found out and that leads to death (2 Cor 7:10). Being "sorry I was caught out and now I'm going to get a hiding, fine, prison sentence is not repentance but rather self pity and self preservation. The repentance of JESUS CHRIST is brought on by a revelation and conviction of the Holy Spirit that brings us to a point of deep inner conviction of the incomparable love and mercy of the LORD GOD, of our own utter inability to do the will of the LORD GOD or anything from any other motive than self preservation and self gratification, of believing that JESUS CHRIST is the Son of the LORD GOD and that He died so that my slate can be wiped clean that leads to an undeniable desire to change from all of me and none of CHRIST to none of me and all of CHRIST.

This repentance also is a foundational change that removes completely the old and establishes a new basis and results in a new man. It is the act of faith that brings in the new birth (John 3:3 & 7). From the new birth the repentance brings about a perpetual movement towards perfection in humility and obedience to the doctrines of JESUS CHRIST (Hebrews 6:1). Many have struggled over their lives with this term, the new birth or "you must be born again. It is, simply put; a symbolic way of explaining what takes place when we are led to the repentance and conviction brought on by the Holy Spirit. What happens is that the Holy Spirit talks (witnesses) to our reborn spirit which is the beginning of the process that brings our minds (souls) in line with our reborn spirits (1 Peter1:9) _("_ _That means the BEGINNING of true faith is the rebirth of our SPIRITS, and the END of our faith is the salvation of our SOULS (mind), because it becomes a lifetime of striving after sanctification and righteousness, of eventually getting our souls (minds) in line with our reborn spirits", Tiaan Gildenhuys),_ \- hence the "changing of mind" I spoke of above and when we repent as described and the old is wiped away, wiped out, dies and a new mind, new spirit is born with a completely new and pure driving force. That's being born again. (in medical parlance it is the presence of the Holy spirit that resides in the brain of the heart of mankind witnessing to our spirit (Romans 8:16) that sends messages to the decision making centre of the brain that is now renewed and stripped of all negative memory receptors and empowers the healthy reborn mind to begin a new type of existence (HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version) It is not a separate event in our lives. It is part of and simultaneous with true repentance. In the book of Romans the apostle Paul refers to being "transformed by the renewal of the mind" which is the essence of repentance and being born again.

The process of repentance and being born again finds it's fulfilment in a desire for a public announcement of our new condition by the public process we know as "water baptism" (often incorrectly referred to as "adult baptism"). It is what was happening in the ministry of John the Baptist. He proclaimed what I have described here. People heard and we're convicted by the Holy Spirit and after the repentance follows their public declaration of being born again by letting John the Baptist baptise them in the Jordan River.

Before I move forward from repentance it remains to explain why it is so important and especially vital to the authority of heaven. From the time of the sin of Adam and Eve (known generally as "the fall" or "the fall of mankind" we all are born with sinful natures. These are focused on self, filled with pride and do not have any fear of being morally corrupt. This means that we are born with a nature that is the exact opposite of that which is desired and commanded by the LORD GOD (and that for the benefit of both ourselves and all mankind). It is a nature that mankind is completely incapable of altering by any and all of our own devices and therefore clearly and indisputably unfit to accommodate any form of divine or "heavenly authority". Only the LORD GOD can intervene in our lives and that He will only do that upon our acceptance of His offer to do so and that is done by the process described above.

2.2. Purity of faith principles

In Matthew 5:19 ( _Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach_ _them,_ _the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.)_ and throughout the ministries of John the Baptist and JESUS CHRIST there was a constant pointing out of the false faith of the Pharisees and their disrespect for the Law. It is and will always be the same for us now that we are grafted into JESUS CHRIST.

Our motivation for obedience to the Law (i.e. the Ten Commandments and their exposition by Moses in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy and such addition as the Holy Spirit points out to us as precepts for the behaviour of brothers and sisters in JESUS CHRIST) is very different from that of the children of GOD THE FATHER (Israel), but they still apply to us as much as ever and the disobedience to them is as sinful as ever.

The present Christian Churches are unfortunately all (or with VERY few exceptions) guilty of proclaiming false doctrines and leading millions of believers astray. What we do not realise and what is unavoidable is that although "believers" have been misled by their clergy, they and not the clergy will pay the price. (Note though that the responsible clergy themselves will not escape but they will in fact be judged far more severely than those that they misled (Ezekiel 43 and James 3:1). Hosea 4:6 makes that the absolute truth. Our studies in Part 1 leave us in no doubt that salvation and the new birth and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit are essential requirements for the possession of the authority of heaven and so here's the thing; unless our faith is pure and unblemished by the participation in false doctrines and festivals, we cannot expect to **know** , **understand** or **receive** the authority of heaven. What is more is that these same things will make them lose their salvation because there is no truth in the doctrine many denominations proclaim that you cannot lose your salvation. There is not one single Scripture in the complete Word of the LORD GOD to substantiate such a lie.

Dear brother and sister in JESUS CHRIST, we are not living in the middle ages and the Word of God is freely available to all of us but let us not perish for the lack of knowing what is or is not contained therein. If it's not in the Bible it's not part of our heritage and we can no more blame false teachers than anyone can claim salvation because of their descendancy from Abraham.

This creates a dilemma for many. Because of a false interpretation of Hebrews 10:25 many are caused to believe that not belonging (in the sense of being a registered and recognised member of a church) to a church is disobedience to JESUS CHRIST. To those who are under that misapprehension I say they are being misled by taking Hebrews 6:1 out of context and I belong and see myself only as a member of one church and that is the Church of JESUS CHRIST of which we as brothers and sisters in JESUS CHRIST are all automatically part (Hebrews 12:22,23). Nothing prevents me from visiting different churches to listen and grow in our knowledge and understanding of JESUS CHRIST just as nothing prevents us from staying away from their false doctrines and festivals. I can have "church" effectively even at home just with my wife or a friend for "wherever two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them" Matthew 18:20. The purity of our faith is more important than condescending to or compromising with obedience to false teaching and idol worship.

False teaching abounds and for that reason I have listed certain resources under my references that expose these and will equip us to remain pure in what we believe and practice.

2.3. Pretence

At first sight it seems almost unnecessary to say that to pretend to be a believer will not work. Not for the pretender and not for the LORD JESUS CHRIST. The real problem here however is that there are many who are so involved in their pretence of religion that they lose sight of their pretence, and end up deceiving themselves (James 1:22). Yes that sounds unbelievable but fact is it exists and does so in huge numbers. I assure you that the Pharisees and many of the people at the time of JESUS CHRIST on earth really thought they were believers in the LORD GOD. But their pretence was easy to see and JESUS CHRIST preferred the less visible but more sincere faith of the tax collectors. So we know that JESUS CHRIST won't miss it.

I want us though to look at the other side. As I said the Pharisees were so into pretending that they bluffed themselves. Just the same there are many amongst us now that are living a pretence. Just ask amongst the "devout" believers if they are born again and observe the panic. The problem here is that in today's rational and scientifically orientated world there are many who have rationalised to themselves that Christianity has the best values, they developed a preference for friends with these values and enjoy the mental and physical liberation wrought on the human spirit by gathering for public worship. They have even been convinced that the LORD'S SUPPER is like a blood Covenant that binds them to each other and to JESUS CHRIST. This group even includes many of the clergy and many even believe that they are born again because it's supposed to happen that way. Sadly all their pretence may bluff some like the Pharisees praying on the street corners misled many, but it will not give them their passage to heaven and they will be left behind at the Rapture and only then in terrible persecution will they hopefully come to salvation and new birth to at least experience some of the 1000 year reign of peace before the final judgement. But that would be the best outcome for pretenders.

Dear friend let's not pretend when it's possible to really be saved and then, by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the love of JESUS CHRIST to truly experience the death, yes the death of the old self that will be eternally buried as with Christ, to also rise with Christ as a new creation, truly born again. All that requires is opening our hearts and minds to the witness of the Holy Spirit, to accept in complete humility that only JESUS CHRIST can save us and to put our hands in the hands of JESUS CHRIST. Then the new us will run towards our water baptism. And at the Rapture we will see JESUS. Isn't that better than pretending? Always remember that righteousness, true divine righteousness (i.e. being in right standing with the LORD GOD) is a matter of the heart and the LORD GOD sees and knows exactly what is in our hearts (Jeremiah 17:10).

However, that's not where the lessons on pretence ends, all those who have died and been buried with JESUS CHRIST and resurrected with Him in the new birth will know and testify to a heart of concern for the lost sheep whether gentiles or pretenders. That fact and that heart cannot be denied or "hidden under a bushel" or pretend that it is not so. The new birth brings about an ecstasy of unknown magnitude that is threatened only by the pain of the thought of mankind perishing in their disobedience. If we suppress this "strangely warmed heart" we too will soon descend back to the ranks of the pretenders to be joined with the modern day Pharisees. If it is the stake we tie on our backs it will become the source of strength to pursue the Great Commission with all we have and then in due course will we receive and know the authority of heaven.

2.4. Not only for teachers and clergy

In Matthew 13:52 (Then said he unto them, _Therefore every scribe_ _which is_ _instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man_ _that is_ _an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure_ _things_ _new and old.)_ JESUS CHRIST tells another simple story that has been left untold for nearly two thousand years and I wonder why.

I went into full time ministry at the age of thirty eight filled with fervent passion. I had by then completed a trade as bricklayer, qualified with a BSc (hon.) Building management and was at the time a construction manager running such a number of projects that when I left construction was replaced by twelve men. Before moving into full time ministry I had been Sunday school superintendent, qualified as local preacher and above all had been born again after catching up with some of the backlog of a misinformed youth. My desire to witness to the lost and to minister to the economically handicapped, abused and addicts knew no bounds. But not long after entering into full time ministry I became aware of two very puzzling truths. One was the deeply ingrained and professionally covered up corruption that existed within the denomination I found myself. The other was that within that denomination all authority was decided by human appointment. It is this latter fact that JESUS CHRIST blows apart in the parable beginning with Matthew 13:52.

The fact is that every believer that is a born again, baptised of water and the Holy Spirit and a disciple of JESUS CHRIST can have the authority of heaven and the extent that it is given to us depends on our sense of responsibility and dedication to the Great Commission. This dear brothers and sisters means that you and I can have it and have all of it even if we are not teachers or clergymen. CHRIST gave it all without reserve to humble fishermen and previously corrupt tax collectors. It does not matter whether you're a successful construction manager or a bricklayer, it does not matter whether you're a "successful" pastor or an unemployed husband and father of a homeless family through no fault of your own. The authority of heaven is awarded by JESUS CHRIST to all who qualify by His standards and His alone and thát authority cannot be denied or overruled by mere men.

What is however pertinent and what the point is that JESUS CHRIST makes in verse 52 is the need for **responsibility**. In my own understanding I prefer to use the word **accountability** as that makes our sense of responsibility visible. The authority of heaven is only given to those who not only will deal with it responsibly but those who will apply it responsibly and hold themselves accountable for their action. There is no authority given to back seat drivers. It's the easiest thing in the world to point out the error of the ways of others, but do we really think we will see anything that JESUS CHRIST did not know about even before it took place? No my friend the authority of heaven is for those that will apply it having considered responsibly how and why and will give account thereof to the Church of JESUS CHRIST, their leaders and mentors. I can assure you brothers and sisters that if you examine anyone, clergy or layman, that acts with the authority of heaven you will find accountability and that you will not find the authority of heaven in anyone, clergy or laity, who is irresponsible and refuses to be held accountable.

2.5. Authority under licence.

In every organisation there is only one that cannot refer to another person in that organisation as "the boss", even if occasionally there is a little confusion (my grandson used to tell his primary school teacher "my dad's the boss but my mom's the manager"... your call). If you consider who anyone refers to as their boss there you will find one common thread, it will be the person from whom they derive their authority in the organisation.

Matthew 16:19 _(_ _And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.),_ leaves us in no doubt who makes the appointments in this matter. Before we move on, this fact gives me an opportunity to highlight another fact about who the authority of heaven is for. You may well ask if this point should not have been made first, or at least earlier. The thing is that in this matter there is no order of priority even though there is a decided order of events. In terms of priority every requirement is equal to all the others. It does not matter in what order I discuss them and you are free to rearrange them if a different order works better for you, but ultimately no authority will be given until all the requirements have been met.

Going back to my earlier illustration in the organisation if you ask anyone what or who the person is that gave them the authority they hold, they will describe that person by name, position and where that person gets their authority from. A foreman could say... John Smith gave it to me; he is the construction manager that only answers to the CEO. To qualify for the authority of heaven we need a similar statement but in this case it is a precondition. In order to be given the authority of heaven we need to acknowledge JESUS CHRIST as our LORD and Saviour (the promised Messiah), that all authority in heaven and on earth is given to JESUS CHRIST alone and that He is seated at the right hand of the FATHER. Why? For the same reason as in the organisation, he who gives it owns it and can take it away!

One critical fact about the authority of heaven is that we use it under licence; it is given subject to the continuous maintenance of all the terms and conditions. Peter recognised that Jesus Christ was "the CHRIST the Son of the living God" (16:16) and that is why he would in time be given that authority (when all the other qualifications had also been met or fulfilled).

2.6. Humility and innocence.

**Matthew 18:1** -4 At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, _Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven_.

I have heard a good number of interpretations of Matthew 18:1-4 many of which make my hair rise. Here I want us to recognise firstly that I am examining its moral in terms of the authority of heaven.

First let me dispel any thought though that the question the disciples asked was unwarranted or presumptuous. At the time it was a perfectly natural question and the answer that JESUS CHRIST gave was not a reprimand as is often said but a further teaching. To explain let me go back to the illustration of the organisation. If the construction manager should come to a decision that he was going to retire or accept an offer from another organisation or even just pass away, there will be others in the organisation who will almost immediately begin to speculate on who the successor will be and for the most part that is the result of ambition and an interest in the future of the organisation. There is not a single word in the Bible spoken against either and any religious fervour (which in essence is laudable ambition) is in fact commended (Rom 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;) and positive ambition is in a sense just the opposite of laziness or sluggishness.

However JESUS CHRIST used this time and the question arising from it to teach yet another important principle that once again proves to be significantly different from what is happening in the modern day business environment. The position that JESUS CHRIST held amongst the disciples before His ascension would be given to the one or to those who humbled themselves to servanthood of the others and became like children.

The authority of heaven is therefore not awarded according to earthly norms and standards as we know them. We have seen already that it has nothing to do with being learned or "qualified" in a tertiary manner. Now JESUS adds humility and being childlike, to responsibility. What does that mean to you and me?

The humility that JESUS CHRIST teaches is about the frame of mind with which the authority of heaven is given or in our case accepted. In business authority is given to us to instruct those under our authority in their daily actions in order to produce required results within a specified time using only a limited amount of resources.

The authority of heaven is given to enable us to empower everyone and anyone in need, to promote the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST and to open the hearts of mankind to the witness of the Holy Spirit. In short worldly authority is given to be served and command others whereas divine authority is given to serve and empower others. This latter is the essence of humility and it is what we have to understand and acknowledge BEFORE it becomes remotely possible to be given this authority. Unlike world authority it takes away initiative and demands increased obedience.

Now to the "childlike" aspect of this teaching: Allow me please dear friend again to draw a parallel with the business environment. There we are appointed for the experience and education we have in occupying a position. How do we get that for the authority of heaven? We cannot gain experience in the use of anything we do not have nor is it practical to educate anyone in the use of continuously new and unprecedented situations. Sounds a bit like a hen and an egg scenario, which came first? There has to be something truly unique in "becoming like one of" the children?

Considering that the authority of heaven is the opposite of carnal authority and that it does not require force, authoritarianism or the physical ability of a superhero, what is it that children have that adults don't have or have lost? There is only one thing and that is naivety. I grew up in an atheist house and in grade 1 my first teacher, a "juffrou (Mrs teacher) Hauptflesh", told us about "Liewe Wiesis" so I spoke about that at home. I was laughed at and told it was "Liewe Jesus". However it was then my turn to laugh and say "juffrou" said that it was "Wiesis", she is my teacher and that settles it. As children we jumped off the shed's roof and out of trees breaking arms and legs but did it all over the next day - because superman did it too. That is the naivety that children have, they don't need to understand or rationalise or have experience in order to apply what they see, are told or given.

In the application and understanding of the authority of heaven this begins to "make sense". It is such an incredibly different "power" that it is beyond mankind's understanding and its use is foreign to all our instincts of self preservation. Ask anyone that was given the authority of heaven how, after the first time they used the authority to effect a healing or cure of miraculous proportions how ready they were to take healing to the next person in need. What if it doesn't work, have I been obedient enough, have I prayed enough and on and on. Issues that naive young children do not have. A child will say "Jesus did it so I'll just copy him", and there's the point; copy JESUS CHRIST. Not just in performing miracles but in every detail, in every facet of his life with emphasis on his obedience to the FATHER, to the Holy Spirit, his prayer life, his times of isolation to meditate on the word and be with the LORD GOD, to continually humble himself, to love his enemies and on and on. Yes it's in the "copying" of a child and the naive confidence that in that way they can do what they see. But remember that this childlike behaviour was coupled with humility and servanthood.

That's where there's a difference. Children, like adults, as they improve their ability to copy they become independent and self sufficient and then trust in their own ability and eventually think they can go it alone. That's because so much of what we do and experience in this world appears to be within our own control and ability. The need for humility is required for this very reason. The authority of heaven has nothing to do with my or our ability or control. It is all about us being a vehicle for JESUS CHRIST through whom JESUS CHRIST can reach out to a weak and bleeding mankind with HIS mercy and HIS grace. We are nothing more than instruments, vehicles that in obedience allow Him to act through us. In return we were saved from eternity in hell, life in the blessed protection and guidance of JESUS CHRIST and the Holy Spirit and will be Raptured with the saints. What more could we want and is it worth losing through pride?

2.7. Never to be withheld.

In order for us to even get close to being given this incredible authority let us remember where we came from. For this I will use myself as an example in the hope that somewhere some of you may find yourself or something that opens your heart to JESUS CHRIST.

I grew up with parents that had completely and utterly rejected the LORD GOD and did not miss any opportunity to blaspheme and belittle CHRISTJESUS and mock all believers. I was prevented from going to Sunday school despite many invitations from neighbours, school friends or concerned acquaintances. Instead Sundays were picnic days with great delicacies and treats. I was sent to boarding school at a church based school for political reasons only and there learnt to drink and smoke and because I had provincial colours in swimming and played first team rugby had a good few saucy girlfriends. While doing a trade as bricklayer the little money I had left went on cigarettes, alcohol and girls. University I paid for by doing weekend and vacation private jobs laying bricks and doing alterations that left enough funds to smoke and drink more and more. I could go on but by now you should have got the point. In spite of all the negatives I kept landing safely. That eventually led to me giving my life to JESUS CHRIST and (although it took a while for me to realise it) JESUS CHRIST wiped out my record of sin and I was born i.e. the man I was seemed to disappear so far away I could barely remember him... i.e. he died, and in his place I came along in that guy's body but a strange new mindset and feeling?? loved?? As it was new I did not know it was that from the beginning but now I know it was love without any doubt. This JESUS CHRIST whom I was brought up to believe was a figment of the imagination of the weak, for no reason other than that I had asked Him to, gave me a new clean start. And then I found out that my Saviour had not only died for me so that He could do that but had suffered more insult and injury than anyone ever did before or since all because He loved me. I had heard other boys talking about the love of their mothers or fathers but never really understood. This thing that JESUS CHRIST did for me and the "deposit" he left in my heart "blew my mind".

My friend the point of this is that I am by no means unique. JESUS CHRIST has done that for millions of others and will, if He has not already done so, do it for you and will do it for millions more. He has and will forgive us much more than we can imagine or describe but how do we respond to that? Early in my new life I learnt of many ways to respond from clergymen and other believers. Be top achievers so I can make big financial contributions (and make it known) teach in Sunday school (off a set curriculum) become a local preacher, go into full time ministry and then the bubble burst. Divorce, rejection, and hard times. Then at the brink of suicide the Lord gave me a new wife, a truly Godly women and a new vision, yes a new insight to what this is truly all about. Now add that to the first forgiveness and you'll understand why I recommitted my life to JESUS CHRIST and He brought back to life the new man he made all those years ago. Yes my friend it was not only Lazarus that JESUS CHRIST raised from the dead, he has done it for me and if you've also had an up and down life go back to where you belong, go back to JESUS CHRIST and seek His face, Repent and confess for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Now learn from the "parable of the unforgiving servant" Matthew 18:21-35 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses. . When He wipes our slate clean and recreates us it's not for our gain. It's not so that I can make a name for myself with my wealth or my ministry or my selfishness in withholding from others what was given freely to me.

That's how it works with all the gifts that JESUS CHRIST gives. In particular it is so with the authority of heaven. By the time we are given that authority we would have been forgiven more than we can put into words. For us then to withhold in any form that gift from others irrespective of what they did to us is unforgivable and will lead to rejection. No matter what was done by others unto us our attitude must always be "Father forgive them for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).

It cannot be overemphasised that the authority of heaven is never given for personal gain. There are men who claim to be Christian clergy that charge vast sums of money for healing incurable diseases and casting out of demons (with not even a 5% genuine success ratio). My dear brother, my dear sister, be very, very careful. These men cannot be what they claim because JESUS CHRIST simply will not allow it. We dare not use that gift for personal gain. More likely than not the men that are guilty of such abuse are obtaining that ability from satan and are subtly casting demonic spirits on the foolish masses that believe them. I have yet to meet a person that has the authority of heaven and uses it for financial gain without dire consequences.

2.8. Lifestyle

JESUS CHRIST said"... (some) have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it." (Matthew 19:12c).

What on earth!? Does JESUS CHRIST mean we must be castrated to receive heaven's authority? Relax; it's a manner of speaking. Even to this day there are some occupations in the Far East for which only castrated men qualify. There, as in JESUS CHRIST'S time on earth, it is an example of a qualification needed for a specific career or profession. Why you may rightly ask, choose such an extraordinary qualification to illustrate the point He is making and what is the point?

The point is dedication in every facet of our lifestyle or in other words discipline. The reason for this example is its irreversibility.

What does the discipline involve? My friends look at the ministry of JESUS CHRIST over the three years thereof and you will notice that there were some things He did in the same way and similar sequence throughout His ministry.

● He was never hurried. There was a momentum to the life and ministry that many earthly achievers admire but in spite of that JESUS CHRIST always seemed to have time on his hands. He also managed to deal with all intrusions calmly and never allowed them to cause hurry or panic.

● Allied to that was the fact that He had an unusual concept of priorities, one that in our lifetime could spell serious trouble if not properly attended to. To Him the need of others was always more important than His own immediate need or action. My wife expects (i.e. used to before I retired) me home within maximum thirty minutes after the end of the working day. Imagine if that were JESUS CHRIST and just as he stepped out of the office near the well there was the woman at the well. Jesus would not have hesitated to treat her exactly as the Bible tells us he did. If that was me and when I got home two hours later than expected and then had to say to my wife "know ye not I was doing my Lord's business", can you imagine the scene? I'm sure you're thinking "rather not" and I agree. The point is that to live a disciplined life we have to consider the impact on our homes and other people. Only then can we order our priorities in the way JESUS CHRIST demonstrates.

● Making time to listen to JESUS CHRIST as he made time to be with the Father. Beloved that is a lot more than making time to pray as prayer is generally practiced. I used to attend a weekly prayer meeting at the church we attend normally. It lasted about 45 minutes, of which we were given 15 minutes to actually pray. Now in that time we cannot even hold all the basics of intercessory prayer up to the LORD JESUS, and certainly not any time in listening to the LORD. Now remember that JESUS CHRIST knows our needs and what is in our hearts even before we say the first word and He is ready to help immediately but how must He do that when I never listen? JESUS CHRIST regularly separated Himself to spend time with the FATHER where He would not be interrupted. Many like Angus Buchan are adamant that this has to happen before dawn for an hour in the confines of my "prayer room". Neither is, with respect uncle Angus, neither is critical. What is critical is making time as often as possible in as isolated a place as possible to sit and talk to and listen to JESUS CHRIST.

● Knowing my place. Paul sums it up perfectly in Galatians 2:20 where we get the well known saying that it's no longer I that live but JESUS CHRIST that lives in me. Throughout the time JESUS CHRIST walked with us he never, not even once and not even nearly lost sight of the fact that all power and honour and authority rested in the hands of His FATHER. So too in our lives it is JESUS CHRIST alone that directs our paths and instruct our actions under His authority and all glory and honour belong to Him alone. That is no mean feat and that is discipline

● A final point although we could add many more is that the use JESUS CHRIST made of the FATHER'S authority always had the purpose of letting people see and understand the glory of the LORD GOD and to open their hearts to the life of JESUS CHRIST unto salvation. In some places JESUS CHRIST stopped performing miracles (Nazareth), in some cases He postponed miracles (Lazarus) but always they had one purpose. That means there must be discernment, which in turn means taking time to reflect and listen before acting. That too is discipline.

However let's move on to the irreversible aspect of the eunuch example. Irreversible in our case becomes not only the fact that this discipline is irreversible and unconditional but it is also about permanence and being unshakeable and dedicated. Not hot and cold but like the ministry of JESUS CHRIST it has to have a momentum that is unstoppable. One thing I do not find in the lifestyle of JESUS CHRIST though is that He is not bound by the clock. I do not find that he did morning devotions at four every morning and so forth. What I do find is that he met His FATHER regularly and spent time in isolation together where there could be no interruption. Frequently that would be at the end of the day's activities when others went to bed. I believe therefore that the importance lies in not compromising on time with JESUS CHRIST for worldly pleasures and to use every opportunity to tighten the bond and grow in the awareness of the presence of JESUS CHRIST and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. It is about putting all others before ourselves, about never being idle and constantly aware of the glory and honour of JESUS CHRIST and wary of the powers and principalities that war against that. But more than that the Ministry of JESUS CHRIST was "irreversible", no persecution, no threat or assault, no humiliation, no lack of recognition, in fact nothing of any kind could reverse the unstoppable march of HIS ministry to its complete fulfilment. Just like a castration is irreversible so it is with requirements of the authority of heaven.

2.9. Not for the Worldly Rich.

By this I mean those who put the largest amount of their time and effort into accumulating "worldly wealth". Many of these are often seen "holding hands with our Pastors and church leaders and are treated with enormous respect by our clergy. They are the ones that contribute the most by a large margin to the church finance and therefore the salary or stipends of the clergy and consequently a lot is tolerated from them. But what does our LORD JESUS say about this. Matthew 19:23 spells it out. Rich men will no more enter the kingdom of heaven than a camel can pass through the eye of a needle. Does that mean it is evil to be rich? No it does not but here's the thing. The general fact among the rich is that they disqualify themselves by virtue of;

● Pride

● Having a false god.

● Self centeredness.

● They have grown accustomed to buying their way but the kingdom of heaven is not for sale.

● They are served not servers.

● They are used to having it their way.

We can go on but more of the same does not alter the facts. This impressive list does not mean that the rich are condemned with no chance of salvation. But, as JESUS CHRIST told one rich man he "had to get rid of all his riches". I believe that man understood JESUS CHRIST perfectly and therefore realised it had nothing to do with giving away all his money. Most "rich" men have already made more than one fortune so they know how to do it again. But the point here is about a complete change of priorities, values, and above all no foreign gods. Just spend a little while looking through the above list and consider how difficult it will be to reverse, not one, but all of them. Not only that but remember that this has to be done by someone who is still where we were before our salvation, new birth and baptism of the Holy Spirit. That means that man stands alone while satan will be filling his ears with lie upon lie.

That's why it's so difficult for the rich, more difficult than for that camel to pass through the eye of the needle. But just pause there for a moment. Let us ask ourselves this question - do we have any one or more than those problems ourselves. You see the "rich" man may bring out a large array of obstacles but, let us never forget that even one of those is as much of a closed door as all of them together. Point a finger and there are three others pointing back at me!

In the final analysis this whole illustration of JESUS CHRIST is not really about a "rich" man but it is about each and every one of us. There's an old hymn that begins with "all of me and none of Him" and ends with "all of Him and none of me", and that's what all this is all about.

Conclusion of to WHO this authority can be given.

Allow me to begin the conclusion to this chapter by telling my brothers and sisters that as you study this authority you are going to hear (and may have already heard) that the authority of heaven is available to all believers. And I will agree with that as long as by believers we mean all those who have:

● Accepted JESUS CHRIST'S offer of salvation.

● Have publicly confessed their faith and been baptised by full immersion in water.

● Have been born again.

● Have been baptised in the Holy Spirit.( Acts 5:29-32 _Then Peter and the_ other _apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men._ The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. _And we are his witnesses of these things; and_ so is _also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him_ (emphasis mine).

The reason for that is that that lays the foundation for all the above. That is what "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand is all about. So then what was all this about?

The point is that from the time the above shortlist is fulfilled it all depends on the plans and purpose JESUS CHRIST has for every individual as to how much and how soon they will be given authority. If JESUS CHRIST deems an individual ready for the full authority at the Baptism in the Holy Spirit then He will award that authority in full immediately as He did with the twelve at the first Pentecost after His ascension. If He thinks we need more time in order to deal with all the requirements in this chapter then the giving of that authority will be delayed as long as JESUS CHRIST deems necessary (as in the case of myself and several other devoted men and disciples of JESUS CHRIST that like me had to be shown by the Holy spirit talking to my spirit what lies I had for many years harboured and would be harmful to the very people that JESUS CHRIST came to save.).

Now allow me to address parents of young children. I have told you some of my history for this very reason. All the foregoing requirements were things I too had to learn like Paul after many years of mistaken devotion. I am sure that Paul if he were here would just like me say that I don't wish that process on anyone. Like Paul left many murdered believers behind in a trail of mistaken devotion, so I and many like me have left trails of devastation behind us. All of that could have been avoided by one simple thing. "Suffer the little children to come unto me" (Mark 10:14).

Parents you cannot afford to waste one more moment in this process. If you have not got the four points above in your favour you are where I was and need to open your heart without any further delay to the witness of the Holy Spirit and come to salvation. You Need to get to grips with all of this because believe me you are going to have desperate need of the authority of heaven to help your children to get on board and be saved from the same fate I had and Paul had and countless others and every one of them would say if they could have started as children they would have been so much happier. And more dear friend, this does not only apply to your child if they were to go into full time ministry but it applies just as much if they follow any other trade or profession. And there is one last consideration. The Rapture is imminent. In Old Testament times a man would have been judged on their faith from the age of thirteen, I cannot say that in the sight of the LORD GOD that has changed but are you willing to be responsible for your child being left to face the tribulation?

To those parents that do have the four qualifications listed above I only want to add that this only places you one small step ahead in the race to educate your children in the Word of the Lord God.

CHAPTER 3

To comprehend what this "authority" is that we can be given.

For me to explain this authority properly I need to go back into the history of the Church of JESUS CHRIST to its very beginning. I must unfortunately for the impatient include here two chapters of Scripture:

The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also He shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom ( _basileia_ _)_ of God: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but _wait for the promise of the Father, which_ _, saith he,_ _ye have heard of me._ _For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence._ When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, _It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth._ And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the Baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. (Acts 1:1‭-‬26‭, KJV)

_And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance._ And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; _And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:_ The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. _Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear._ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, Until I make thy foes thy footstool. Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? _Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call._ And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: _and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles._ And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:1‭-‬47 KJV)(All Emphases mine)

The answer to what the authority of heaven is, is almost obvious, almost. Yet like I have done so many will wonder if it is not something that only happened in the time of the apostles and thereafter the Lord God stopped giving it to mankind. That indeed is what a lot of denominations proclaim and, as I'm sure you're well aware of, there is even a great deal of controversy over the gift of speaking on tongues. To understand where all this originates and what the purpose and effects of the cause was is important to a proper understanding of what the authority of heaven is. I will therefore first in a very brief way deal with this issue.

I am sure that most of us are well aware that JESUS CHRIST and His teachings were not at all approved or accepted by the secular and religious leaders of the time and that they were constantly at loggerheads first with John the Baptist, then JESUS CHRIST and then the apostles. Their insipid persecution of JESUS CHRIST may have fitted the Great Plan of the LORD GOD to the letter and may have brought about the reality of JESUS CHRIST paying for our right to redemption and salvation,( and let me hasten to point out that this was no mere coincidence but that the Lord God knew that this would happen from before the creation of the world) but in essence their persecution of all our early leaders including JESUS CHRIST was about a far more sinister reason. Modern day comparisons of the religion of Israel at that time would include Nazism and the Apartheid theology of our own country. Their religion had become **subject to political justification** of immoral practices rather than moral practice being derived from Divine Ordinances. That in turn was propelled by a desire to retain absolute authority and become financially superior and as a result of this all the apostles and multitudes of their converts where all persecuted and murdered in ways that displayed the cruelty and bloodlust of power and tyranny clearly and undeniably.

What is not so well known by the majority of churchgoers is what happened after firstly 70AD and also around 90 - 100AD when John the apostle became the last of them to meet the LORD JESUS CHRIST in heaven.

After the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70AD the nation of Israel became the people of the dispersion and for a while the Romans still dominated the political and the religious scene. However in both Rome and in Greece they continued the "state religion" (i.e. politics over religion) that we saw in Israel before they became insignificant. In addition to that in both the Roman and the Hellenistic world's there were a vast number of "false gods" notably in Rome (the classical imitation by satan of the Holy Trinity) and a similar threesome in Hellenism (This satanistic imitation of the Holy Trinity progressed through history as follows: First, Nimrod (Genesis 10:9), Semiramis and Tammuz (sun god - Baal); then to Egypt where they became Osiris, Isis and Horus; then to India where they became Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu and then to Rome where they became Jupitor, Juno and Vulcan and then to Greece where they became Zeus, Hera or Aphrodite and Aries or Eros; as you see the imitation remains there throughout and the RCC have effectively replaced the Roman goddess Juno with Mary the mother of JESUS CHRIST). Yet there remained a strong Gospel influence in both Rome and the Hellenistic empire. This led to a Roman state religion that the emperor Constantine adopted and resulted in the "canon of Scripture" to be established and proclaimed it the state religion of the Roman Empire (it was this combination of idol worship and pagan festivals) that was the basis of the apostasy of the church in Rome and in addition they made it almost impossible for the Hebrew faith to survive by ostracising every facet of Jewish economic and religious practice (for example no one was allowed to buy or sell anything from the Jews).

That's a very, very brief summary but it will be enough to make the point about this. What Constantine basically achieved was the establishment of the Roman Catholic Church (RCC) which you will now understand was not a CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST from its very beginning. It was a combination of the Old and New Testament teachings and idol and satan worship that was subject to political domination and financial control of its sphere of influence.

To all intents and purposes the RCC overran the Apostolic Church and eventually became to the vast majority of people and nations the church of JESUS CHRIST. This with all the lies, deceit and idol worship, heathen festivals and political skulduggery alive and intact finally to be ensconced in what we know as the Vatican. From the outset it began to have a major influence on altering the Word of God by the use of falsified documentation and other theological influences and currently they have the ultimate authority in the vast majority of Bible publishing houses resulting in further and further demonising of the original text. In this way we have for instance the New International Version (a book that I will not add the title of Bible to) which has more than 64000 fewer words than the Word of God in its purest English form, the King James Version. That's like about the equivalent of a third of the Old Testament and results in major distortions of the truth and then the RCC still adds the books collectively known as the Apocryphal books which are not recognised as writings inspired by GOD the HOLY SPIRIT.

All this is, in my humble opinion, enough to prove that there is a very sinister motivation behind the RCC and its influence on Christianity. Now there will be those alert brothers and sisters that will very quickly ask "what about Calvin and Luther, Bunyan, Wesley and others like them. Yes they "reformed" a few aspects of RCC teaching, and that includes making the written Word readily available in our home languages, a return of emphasis to salvation by faith (though often to the detriment of obedience) and a minor return of some "authority" into the hands of our laity. However they never addressed the worship of idols in the RCC and most Reformed denominations, perpetuated the keeping of ungodly festivals which perpetuates the deceptive practice of most clergy in "mainline" denominations and continues to cover up the implication of salvation developing to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25). The vast majority of Christian denominational churches continue to be under massive influence and control by the RCC by many intriguing ways and means and above that the natural man's desire (lust) for power, luxury and control and denominational control structures has kept the truth hidden and is smothering the Church of JESUS CHRIST systematically and confirming Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians prophesy of a falling away prior to the Rapture (2 Thessalonians 2:3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for _that day shall not come,_ except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;).

Allow me to point out now, before I move on to say just what this authority of heaven actually is, to say that I am well aware that even in our denominational churches and even in the RCC there are individual clergy that are also seeing all this. Some are taking brave stands; some are very tentatively starting to bring in the long lost truths. A few have broken away and taken a firm stand against all the false teaching and doctrine. Every single one of us will be confronted by the same choices these men have had to make and my prayer for every brother and sister in JESUS CHRIST is that when your turn comes we will have and continue to have the courage to act as the Holy Spirit leads. We cannot criticise and/or point fingers while we ourselves continue to be neither hot nor cold because the LORD GOD will spue us out if we do that (Rev 3:16).

_The authority of heaven is the legal and physical right to do and act with supernatural powers in and on the lives of the people of the earth to the glory and honour of JESUS CHRIST in the execution of the Great Commission_ (definition my own). When JESUS CHRIST gives this authority to us it is given for us to use under licence conditions and will empower us to act and perform miraculous signs and wonders, to heal the sick and cast out demons and satan in the same manner as did JESUS CHRIST and the apostles.

Now you will understand why the lengthy although very abbreviated history above was necessary. You may not have known how to acquire this authority but its effect is pretty well known. However it is very much still available to this day and will be available at least until the Rapture and, even more important than that, it is available to each and every brother and sister in JESUS CHRIST.

If you've ever wondered why we don't see church growth like in the days after Pentecost then you will realise that the root cause lies in firstly the abuse of the authority of heaven and then the loss of it. Will we work to regain it for the right purpose and exercise it as we should?

CHAPTER 4

How do we Acquire The Authority of Heaven?

From the scope we have covered thus far the question may seem to have been answered already. It would seem to be as simple as conversion, water baptism and the new birth, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and then asking JESUS CHRIST to give it to us.

That basically is it, so that's the end of it, or is it? Is there any reason why this could change? Or does our LORD JESUS CHRIST not keep His promises? That type of reasoning will get you nowhere, nowhere in the worst possible sense. Consider this. After the LORD GOD set His people free from slavery in Egypt and the rebelled against His appointed leader He POSTPONED their entry into the Promised Land by forty years! When they disobeyed the Law repeatedly and worshipped false gods and kept foreign festivals. He sent them back into captivity in Babylon for seventy years. Since they rejected the Messiah their prophesied punishment has been hanging over their heads for 2000 years and then only a remnant of a third of them will survive that the selected 144000 will lead to salvation and be hidden in the desert by the LORD GOD. Do GOD the FATHER and JESUS CHRIST keep their promises? Absolutely and the Word is overflowing with evidence. Will, or can God POSTPONE prophesies and or promises? History proves not only that He can but that He will, has done it and therefore will continue to do it. But why, what is pertinent to our situation?

Conditioning: What does that mean? The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as "the process of training or influencing a person or animal mentally so that they do or expect a particular thing without thinking about it" and goes on with; conditioning starts as soon as boys are given guns to play with and girls are given dolls. God has about 6000 years of experience in human behaviour and behavioural trends since the fall. With that I'm not suggesting that the LORD GOD has been conditioned because we know that He is above that. But think of mankind, Wikipedia puts a generation at a period of thirty years. That means that since the fall there have been at least two hundred generations. That's 200 cycles of shaping and reshaping mankind's expectations to what we have become. Add to that the influence of the RCC on all Christian denominations, the traditional adherence to pagan festivals celebrating ishtar (Eastern goddess of fertility) and tammuz (satan) which in spite of increasing numbers of clergy and laity being fully aware of but doggedly refusing to desist from participating in, the prevalence of New Age thinking at all levels of society and business and, lastly mankind's own fallen, and by conditioning still falling further, nature. It all adds up to a human state of mind that has become totally unprepared for such vast powers.

But what about being born again? That's a fair question and not an easy one to put to rest. I suspect that if we can then it will go a long way towards a more complete understanding of the love of JESUS CHRIST for us. The history of Paul helps us a great deal in this and I also have prayed and relied heavily on the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The first fact I already mentioned above about my own and my colleagues' experiences and need for unlearning. I had been born again and baptised but had to unlearn a great many apostasies taught by the church and one of my friends served many years an appointed elder before resigning and discovering the real truths under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This friend and brother in JESUS CHRIST now that he has fully acquired the authority of heaven has the most Biblically truthful and powerful ministry that I am aware of that is teaching these long lost fundamentals of our faith to great effect and with what can only be described in a great many instances as "miraculous" effect. But there was first that waiting or perhaps better called a "preparation" period. Both my friend and I are university graduates and had very successful secular careers at one time which shows that the issue has nothing to do with natural intelligence or ability but on the contrary has everything to do with a divine process of the witness of the Holy Spirit to our spirits and our hearing, understanding, acceptance and obedience to JESUS CHRIST. Over and against this there are also some to whom the full authority of heaven is given immediately (or at least practically immediately) and there is no better example of this that Saul who became the apostle Paul who immediately after his Damascus Road experience and the laying on of hands by Ananias began to have an unnaturally productive and powerful ministry (Act 9:19-22 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard _him_ were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

The next fact we know is that JESUS CHRIST knows what's in a man's heart and mind. Wedding "guests" without the right "wedding gown" will be removed, prospective candidates for the authority of heaven will have to be equipped as JESUS CHRIST deems necessary for the purpose He intends the candidate to use it.

There are times when by the new birth alone and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, JESUS CHRIST may immediately so "renew" a prospective candidate that like Matthias he may immediately receive this authority (keep in mind tough that he had been with the disciples from the beginning and was among those 72 that were sent out in pairs) and there may be times when there needs to be a preparation and a waiting period. It is what we do during that waiting period that matters. The new birth and Baptism of the Holy Spirit will assist in directing us in the right way but the waiting period must be spent, as did the apostles and disciples, in prayer, in teaching and in worship (Rom 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.(emphasis mine)). The renewal of the mind is an intricate process of confession and repentance by which the brain of mankind is purged of negative and demonised memory trees in a process which takes at least four days and leaves the mind in a state in which old and blocked paths are renewed and new and healthy paths can be established, all of which is an essential requirement for the ability to be able to discern (prove) the will of JESUS CHRIST (Dr. MK Strydom).

Ultimately the authority is a promise of JESUS CHRIST and therefore WILL be kept. To receive it we must be obedient to the greater wisdom of JESUS CHRIST, to wait in obedience and learning. We need to be reconditioned and we all know that in most cases that takes a great deal of time.

I must add a final point and that is that the more we have the whole and unadulterated truth in our personal makeup and the better we understand the spiritual realm and believe in the miraculous power of JESUS CHRIST and the greater our humility and servanthood the faster we will be seen as ready and the longer the purpose for which we will be used.

In a nutshell we get the authority of heaven by fully understanding our own complete fallibility and the complete and infallible goodness and power of JESUS CHRIST.

CHAPTER 5

How do we Keep the Authority of Heaven?

To some scholars this question would seem almost superfluous and that because they were taught that "once saved always saved". This argument is based on Hebrews 6:4-6; (For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.). And then add various other texts to this. The adding of these other texts is unwarranted because in the first instance Hebrews 6:4-6 is a description of a hypothetical situation with the purpose of saying that both believers and unbelievers need correction from time to time.

Also the much quoted text of Philippians 1:6 "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:" (KJV) reflects only an opinion based on the current condition of the Philippians and the faithfulness of JESUS CHRIST to the obedient. We only need to look at a whole generation wiped out in the desert for lack of obedience to see how the LORD GOD will react to disobedience.

There is nothing in the Word of God to substantiate this old lie and in fact ample to show that we can lose our salvation and many have. Those scholars who might have thought this question to be superfluous would have based that opinion on this very principle.

Now if we can lose our salvation we would also have lost those four basic requirements of the authority of heaven and will therefore lose that authority as well. But is that the only way in which we can lose that authority without necessarily losing our salvation as well? I believe that can happen.

Here is the reason. We considered very carefully and in a lot of detail for who this authority was and why. I do not want to go through that whole list again but will give one example and that same principle will apply throughout.

Let us consider the aspect of humility. We have seen that this authority is essentially linked to an abnormally high degree of humility that is equated with voluntary and joyful adoption of a lifestyle of servanthood. The authority of heaven will however make the holder thereof very well known and very visible on all the public media platforms of our time. That means the holder of this divine authority will soon become famous (or infamous if you're on the other side) and from fame to pride is only one tiny step. Pride in turn has a way of making us think that we ourselves are great and makes us forget the licence conditions. That leads to abuse. That is extremely dangerous and may have a number of outcomes.

1. JESUS CHRIST may simply remove the authority and the holder may realise their error and remain saved by a return to the Laws and teaching of JESUS CHRIST.

2. In some cases the pride has become so great that men have built successful "businesses" on the unlicensed use of their authority. They will lose the authority of heaven without doubt. But that will not necessarily be the end of it. There are those who having had a taste of this power and the "easy bucks" that they will become open to the wiles of satan and because they have lost the protection of the Good Shepherd, satan and his demons will use the opportunity to warp and twist the minds of the droves that stream to them for "healing". I need not tell you what will ultimately happen to those but my point is that in the final analysis, to maintain the true authority of heaven, we must "be imitators of JESUS CHRIST" and reject all worldly acclamation of ourselves and ensure that all honour and glory goes to JESUS CHRIST and the Gospel.

3. Between these two cases which I will describe as best case and worst case scenarios, there are obviously several possibilities. However the bottom line remains the same. That humility that is likened to voluntary and joyful servanthood must be at the upper part of our list of priorities at every step along the way and we cannot afford to let our guard down ever.

So what we can then in fact say about the keeping of that authority is that we must:

1. Never lose sight of the basic requirements and the character traits that JESUS CHRIST requires from those to whom He awards the licensed use of the authority of heaven.

2. Always spend time in prayer, listening and understanding what exactly the will of JESUS CHRIST is in every situation in which we need to apply the authority of heaven.

3. Live a lifestyle of humility and servanthood in every single facet of life and be always and continuously aware that firstly satan will hate us for what we will be doing and will not miss a single tiny opportunity to tempt us and lead us off the rails. We will need divine protection for this as it is not within us to overcome the powers and principalities and must therefore always put on the full armour of God.

4. In everything we must remain in right standing with the LORD GOD, being obedient to every Law and statute including particularly abstaining from the worship of "false gods" and participation in demonic festivals.

5. We must not fear (the Word of God expressly prohibits fear 365 times) the application of the power because of our natural inhibitions or the lies of satan. We probably have a conditioned fear of failure (unless our minds have been renewed by repentance and confession of sins related to the spirit of fear) that may easily cause us to "bury our talent until the master returns". Firstly as the authority is from JESUS CHRIST and if the healing or casting out or other that we "authorised" does not take place it is because JESUS CHRIST wills it so and although we may be prevented from understanding (like the disciples were after JESUS CHRIST returned from the Mount of Transfiguration) the ultimate glory and honour still belongs to JESUS CHRIST. It may well also be that the Lord JESUS Christ has postponed the healing because we need to lead the "patient" through a process of repentance from the sin that caused the disease so that the healing will not be negated by a return to that sin (Dr MK Strydom).There is therefore no ground for fear because of that and the fact that we have the promise that the Holy Spirit will not leave us speechless. Any fear that we may experience must be dealt with as lies from satan, taking the thought captive (2Co_10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; and we must by the authority given us in JESUS CHRIST) and casting satan out in faith aand not giving him access to our minds.

6. I want to add one further condition that may not be specifically stated in the Word but is certainly shown by the example of JESUS CHRIST. There is no doubt in my mind that the authority of heaven will bring us into situations within the established church denomination that will have as large a potential for severe conflict as was the case between JESUS CHRIST and the Pharisees. Take for example two things, the traditional celebrations on the 25th of December and the large wooden crosses seen in the majority of church buildings. We have already seen that the December feast is in fact a perverted celebration of satan and at least thirteen Roman gods. The wooden cross was not only the symbol semiramis chose for her son, who she also married, but a friend in Authority of CHRIST Ministries (AICM) has many testimonies of redeemed satanists about satanists doing rituals at the foot of the crosses outside the towns, and satanists wearing normal crosses around their necks or in their ears, not inverted crosses, because they deem it as "their symbol" on which our Messiah died. The fact is it was the symbol of tammuz instituted by semiramis 1560 years BC. I have personally spoken to a number of clergymen who are condoning these practices in their own churches and seen some of the opposition they have to these truths. I know of one specific pastor in a large denominational church that has expressly forbidden the teaching of these facts to his church members and loudly supports these specific two issues. The negative influence it is having on their ministry is becoming more apparent as time goes by. On the other hand my friend in AICM also has evidence of a pastor of a church that did "outlaw" 25th December celebrations and removed all wooden crosses from their church and that ministry has never looked back. The question is how we deal with this and other potential conflicts. The answer is just this - "be imitators of JESUS CHRIST ". Do not become aggressive or abusive, state our case clearly, sympathetically and not facetiously, giving time for serious questioning, and walk away graciously. The authority of heaven licence is given to us to build up, encourage and inform but not to dominate, impress or overcome. (That incidentally is also how we deal with those who abuse the authority).

CHAPTER 6

The Effects of the Authority of Heaven.

From all the foregoing it is obvious that by the authority of heaven miracles, healings and casting out of demons can be performed. There are however, other underlying effects that are important to be aware of.

From the text of Matthew 13:24 we see that because the authority is likened to "good seed" the authority will produce both abundant and healthy fruit. How crucial are these in the last days (while we must expect a falling away) to bring a lasting salvation to as many as possible. I am convinced from all the current evidence that only the authority of heaven and the undiluted Word of God (i.e. the Truth alone) will save masses from the Tribulation. Good fruit (impenetrable conversions) and lots of it are needed now. Now I know that there are going to be those who will say that their churches are currently experiencing great growth in numbers and I will not deny that. We cannot however, argue against well and honestly researched statistics that show that internationally the number of people that call themselves Christians (by any definition) is falling and that means that the chances are extremely high the one specific church may show a growth in numbers it is probably at the cost of others experiencing a drop in numbers. Furthermore this only goes to prove that the Word of God remains the Truth, that there is clear evidence of the falling away and that increased efforts at witnessing to the glory of JESUS CHRIST is more urgent that most of us realise.

Matthew 13:31 builds on this by likening the authority of heaven to a mustard seed. The "lots of" mentioned, can escalate to proportions beyond our expectations and can in fact be explosive. Angus Buchan tells of a "Mighty Men Conference" where they hired the biggest tent in the world for the occasion. It took thirteen pantechnicons to transport and three weeks to erect and could seat 30,000 people. Their most optimistic calculations showed they could expect 22,000 men. The eventual turnout was in fact 60,000 and half the men were seated outside around the tent whose flaps were all rolled up. At another "It's Time" prayer gathering they planned in three weeks a prayer gathering for one million people with great success, not charging one cent from anyone all expenses were paid the day before the meeting and the final estimate put the attendance at up to 1.76 million people. My brother, my sister, do you see how explosive the authority we are given can be. To be effective in this time of world domination by the RCC, the Illuminati and the New Age Movement nothing else can save our people from the Tribulation.

I admire the work of AICM for their recognition of the effect of Matthew 13:33 (Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.) It may be given to Angus Buchan to reach some in the way he does. We are however all different and there are many that need to be reached on a more one to one type basis. That's what they do and yet their ministry is also having a great effect. May be less spectacular but yet slow and steady like the effect of yeast on a dough mixture their authority is causing the good news to also spread irresistibly.

How highly is this valued? Matthew 13:34 speaks of selling everything in order to get it. Will that still happen? Indeed and in some cases it may need the intervention of JESUS CHRIST to "take away" everything if we don't "give" away. My friend at AICM mentioned lost a lucrative law practice ("because I was disobedient to the Word of God"  https://soundcloud.com/oicb/persoonlike-getuienis-tiaan-gildenhuys ) and resigned his appointment as elder in a mainline church for it. One of his co-workers also sold up house and home with three children and hit the road in a caravan. Both have weathered all the odds against them and are now firmly established.

Are these people "merchantmen"? Matthew 13:45. Without doubt Angus and Tiaan are both well known, widely published authors and in great demand. Gerhard may be more in the background but is doing a major amount of the follow up work that is so vital. These men are in their own way applying the authority and have become independent of the support of normal clergy from their congregations. That's a vital necessity because it's often the very congregations that dictate the doctrine. Was not our brother Paul the tentmaker's ministry also like that, independent of fixed support?

It is like a net (Matthew 13:47 _Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:)_ In South Africa divisions along "race", nationality and language barriers is legendary. The Nobel peace prize given to de Klerk and Mandela may have made foreign countries think that all is bliss here and given the anti Christian sentiment of that institution I would not be surprised that hoodwinking of the world was the purpose of the award to these recipients was their ultimate objective. The racism that existed before the end of the so called "Apartheid Era" has merely changed to a different rail and is alive and growing not only in South Africa but most of the world. It is squashed by the media and organisations like the "Noble Prize" institute for purely selfish gain. so much of the world economy in first world countries is based on ongoing conflict that it would cause huge unemployment and financial loss if conflict was to give way to peace. That dear friend and reader is a crucial point of the comparison of the net with the "authority of heaven" The authority is for all nations, all classes and all types. What about colour? Colour is not a Biblical classification but one that mankind has thrown into the fire to fuel conflict. We are all of the race of mankind (or as modern ethicists would say the human race). Friends this may even be one of the most underutilised "powers" of the authority of heaven and is something we should pay a great deal more attention to. imagine the peaceful gathering of all of mankind, though difficult and many would say it is impossible, that is exactly what happened at Pentecost (And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place Acts 2:1; And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Acts 2:5)

It is fair and ethical; Matthew 20:1 ( _For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man_ _that is_ _an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard)._ . Just this morning I heard Hermann du Plessis from Mosaiek church say that in the past four years corporate unethical behaviour has increased by 36%. I spent many of my years in that environment thinking it could not get worse than it was as I then thought it was running close to 100% of capacity. Business ethics got worse?! My dear brothers and sisters in my understanding that means we cannot trust a single person in business. The same human beings make up the religious community and I dare say that the implication of that is that the same applies to the proclamation of our church preachers and teachers. May the Lord grant that I am drawing a wrong conclusion here but it does concern me very deeply when I see the persistent avoidance of dealing with idol worship and pagan festivals as well as the continued disempowerment of the laity in the vast majority of cases while churches are "employing" increasing numbers of full time clergymen which is becoming a promotion of the establishment rather than The Gospel in a time where neither the medical or the Christian fields are coping with increased numbers struck by disease without being cured.

Furthermore practically the same statistics and arguments apply to the practice of fairness. Just go and look at the astronomical increase in formally declared disputes and prosecutions for unfair labour practice and unfair dismissals and that does not take into account some of the unethical labour practices that are put in place by heartless businessmen to circumvent formal labour legislation. In South Africa many think the worst corruption was that between Zuma and friends that saw multi-millions of state funds disappear into thin air. I suggest that's just the tip of the iceberg. Then there is a general hurrying and scurrying among their "disciples" to address their own spheres of influence and taking the corruption ever deeper into the very heart of society. The only exception to all this corruption that I know of is the activities of the handful of men and woman I know or know of that are acting under the authority of heaven. In their ambit there is notable transparency, a fairness and ethical standard that is fully in line with the norms and standards of JESUS CHRIST. How desperately needed isn't that. How desperately needed is a return to the ethical and fairness standards of the Word of God. I hope and pray that as you read this you are hearing a call on your life through the Holy Spirit because the Lord is still saying "the harvest is ready, whom shall I send"? There is not a single other source that exists that can bring back these values and end corruption. As much as this is the case here in South Africa let me assure you that it is completely universal and in many cases, including the majority of first world countries, things are worse in reality and only the cover up is more effectively managed. If nothing else let us pray for men and women to "Repent for the authority of heaven is at hand ".

It is patient, forgiving and not easily offended Matthew 22:2 (The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,) The universal basis for ninety percent of all conflict is the lack or absence of patience, forgiveness and touchiness (i.e. pride) even in marriages where both are children of JESUS CHRIST living in the Truth and Spirit of JESUS CHRIST, born again and Baptised in the Holy Spirit the conflicts (although remarkably fewer than in homes where JESUS CHRIST is absent) can almost without exception be attributed to these three factors. Given the opposition that I have already described that the authority of heaven is bound to bring about it is clear that this attribute will not only be extremely important and necessary but will in fact be one of those distinguishing characteristics of the authority of heaven.

In my own experience as chairman of the West Rand Local Peace Committee in the years from the release from prison of Nelson Mandela until after the "first democratic elections I met at least once a fortnight with representatives of all the political parties and civic organisations to discuss their planned events, probable and possible threats to peace and stability and how to avoid conflict by negotiating terms that all would support. Needles to say that was a recipe for major conflict and only by the grace of God, the authority of heaven afforded me and the guidance of the Holy Spirit I was able to allow personally offending interjections slide over me and to remain fair (which includes objectivity), patient and forgiving. The result was that the area that upon the release of Mandela was identified as the most volatile and most likely point where extreme violence would break out in the end proved to go through the process the most peacefully, what a mighty GOD we serve. Under those circumstances and pressure, pastoring simultaneously a church and being on the Regional and national peace keeping bodies, working a 20 hour day seven days a week, I cannot take any credit for my abilities in those meetings and can only give all credit, all glory and honour to JESUS CHRIST. Again our need for those abilities, that kind of authority in this country and all others is desperately needed and my plea is repeated

It is fearless Matthew 23:13 ( _But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in_ _yourselves,_ _neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in._ ) At this point I won't dwell on the scenario above again except to say that I'm sure you can imagine that those meetings would be at times very scary and that in my own strength I would have been so fearful that I could not have persevered. Another aspect that is relevant here and that my friends Tiaan and Gerhard and their wives have repeatedly confirmed is that the attacks from the satanic part of the spiritual realm will become regular and fierce and without the absolute confidence in JESUS CHRIST'S protection of those He entrusts with this authority together with the prayers of ourselves and our dedicated intercessors we would not have the fearlessness needed to continue to proclaim the pure Gospel of JESUS CHRIST.

It induces servanthood and humility Matthew 25:14 ( _For_ _the kingdom of heaven is_ _as a man travelling into a far country,_ _who_ _called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods._ ) To conclude this chapter I can think of no better way than JESUS CHRIST'S own winding up statement. The need for the power of the authority of heaven is universal, it is available for the rich and the poor, sick and healthy, dirty and clean, addicts and the sober and on and on. It is not for the white collar workers in their air-conditioned executive offices with every convenience and service at their beck and call (unless they become born-again believers, then they too can get it). It isn't even for the average "blue collar worker (except they too become born-again believers) but I can assure you it will only be those with the truly humble servant hearts that will cope. They like mother Florence Nightingale will lift the Wounded and dying from the battlefield, wash and feed them and lay them between fresh clean sheets and thank the LORD GOD for the privilege that will cope. But the effect it will have on humanity is their object. The foundation for all our modern nursing and allied services was the servanthood of that humble woman. The more we can encourage servanthood the more service orientated a society will ensue and isn't that one of the major demands of JESUS CHRIST for a Christian society? Absolutely. Let's do it and do it now.
CHAPTER 7

References:

1. © King James Version Holy Bible (Authorised Version).

2. Kingdom Equals Authority; Published by Tiaan Gildenhuys copyright 2013; Smashwords Edition.

3. HEALING begins with SANCTIFICATION of the HEART "NO DISEASE IS INCURABLE" Dr. MK Strydom, Eagles Wings Ministry, Fourth Edition 2013, PDF Version

4. Divine Healing - Andrew Murray - ANEKO Press Christian Classics - Available on Kindle

Recommended for further studies:

Visit the website http://www.oicb.co.za and select "recourses" and under "YouTube videos (tiaan) I would particularly like to recommend the teachings named; Identify the lie: the Christmas lie; Practical Spiritual warfare 1 & 2: The Jezebel spirit: The Python spirit: The Leviathan spirit: The Athaliah spirit: Roman Catholicism versus The Bible: Passover versus Easter:

At the bottom of the list of videos is a link to his books where again I would particularly recommend; Why do Bible Versions differ: The Rapture of the saints; Jew and Gentile Worshipping Together; Watchmen on the walls.

These above two paragraphs are not intended to exclude any of the other videos or books but these are the ones most relevant to this study of mine. All of tiaan's work is really inspired by the Holy Spirit and absolutely worth spending a great deal of time on.
About the Author:

I was born 21 August 1950 and grew up in a home best described as atheist. I knew nothing about Christianity until my high school years and even then a very clouded picture was mine. After school i qualified in the trade of bricklaying before doing a BSc degree in Building Science at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). I worked in construction progressing to Construction manager and managing contract in what is currently known as the provinces of Gauteng, North-west, Limpopo, Mpumalanga Free State and Kwa Zulu Natal. I moved on into full time ministry in the Methodist Church of South Africa and studied for a B.Th. through the University Of South Africa (UNISA). During this time I also served as vice chair and chair of the West Rand Local Peace Committee as well as serving on the Regional Peace committee before and during the first democratic elections in South Africa and served as chair of Hospice in the West. I left full time ministry after a divorce and returned to construction and allied industries until my retirement two years ago. i the started acrylic painting as a hobby and doing further bible studies that led to this publication.

The copyright of this book was stated at the beginning but you are free to quote or refer to is with due accreditation at any time without further request but that does not include my accepting responsibility for any conclusions drawn from it unless expressly agreed to by me in writing by email.

For any further information please feel free to contact me at sybrand191@gmail.co.za
