Paradise

PARADISE

Paradise, the present abode of the departed saints: Paradise, what a beautiful word!
A word that appears to have an Oriental origin; The King of Persia was said to have gardens which were called paradises, full of everything beautiful and good that the earth could produce. (The LXX adopts this word for the Garden of Eden, signifying "delights,") which may account for Eden often being referred to as Paradise,; and perhaps the use of the word in the N.T. as denoting some place of happiness and blessing in the heavens. 

Paradise: this blissful word only occurs three times in the N.T. Scriptures: 
Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 12:5; Revelation 2:7.
The first reference is that statement our Lord addressed to the penitent robber crucified alongside Him at Calvary. The second Scripture penned by the Apostle Paul equates Paradise with the "third heaven," (as distinct from the dual heavens, atmospheric and stellar,) not "heaven itself." While the third reference differs from the former two verses indicated. They refer to the present disembodied spirits of the saints who are "absent from the body," and "at home with the Lord." Whilst the third occurrence addressed to the over-comer in Ephesus where it is titled the "Paradise of God," is identified with the after-resurrection state as described in Revelation 22:2. It points forward to that moment when all believers will receive their "bodies of glory," their resurrection bodies. Then as suggested saints will not enter into the "Paradise of God," one by one as "put to sleep through Jesus," but ALL reunited "in the air," to meet the Lord and be raptured to the "Fathers' house!"

Of late the import of this precious truth has been upon my heart. Not least because I "found" a couple of lines penned by a saint of old which awoke a responsive "amen" within my breast; he wrote,

" 'Twixt me and the Resurrection

But Paradise doth stand"

And whilst fully admitting "The sky not the grave is my goal," nevertheless a realisation that if I was to pass through the article of death, it would but prove a portal into Paradise, and the immediate presence of my Lord and Saviour, even the Lord Jesus. How wondrously comforting to every frail and feeble waiting saint.

But it has come to my attention that many of the Lords' people are somewhat ignorant about Paradise; often failing to distinguish it from Heaven itself. Frequently failing to note the difference between "heaven" and "the heavens," too! Another reason for using "better" translations in an age where a multiplicity of suspect and subversive translations abound.

It has not been my intention to write a full exposition concerning the true understanding of Paradise. But I am concerned that recently a beloved, highly respected "brother" has given oral ministry, and written an article also, both of which which contain much error, as far as I am able to grasp the truth regarding this precious "place."

In concluding this brief glance at that which lies beyond the grave for the believer who "falls asleep," I would like to remind or inform my fellow saints of the last days of a truly godly brother.

When J.G. Bellett knew that he was to be "called home," he spoke eloquently of his anticipation of Paradise. He made it clear that he was so longing for a "time" ALONE with Christ! He loved the thought of one day being reunited with those brethren and sisters he had so loved during his earthly pilgrimage; to be "caught up together with them" at the Rapture. But in the "meanwhile" he craved a season alone with his Saviour.  

It is recorded that he said these rapturous things, among others, as he neared his transport into Paradise.

"My precious Lord Jesus, Thou knowest fully I can say with Paul, "to depart and to be with Thee, which is far better. Oh, how far better! I do long for it!"
I have Himself - Himself! I am going to be with Himself!"

"Oh, to be with Him BEFORE the glories, the crowns, or the Kingdom appear! It is wonderful, wonderful!"

Brethren, beloved of the Lord, may it be "wonderful" to you and to me, for His glory!

John Metcalfe

John Metcalfe: A man of The Word or the words of a man?

Only yesterday I contemplated purchasing a book written by John Metcalfe. It had to do with the Psalms. I could not decide if it was a commentary or a new "poetic version." I was interested because I love the Psalms, and as an avid book collector suitably impressed by its binding and condition; a hardback with a dust jacket; other collectors will understand! Of course the content was or paramount importance.

But from the outset I was uneasy and decided to research John Metcalfe. I am relieved that I did, and did so before I had committed myself to the purchase.
There exists a John Metcalfe trust and "they" have issued a brief biography of this man. To read it with an open mind and not experience incredulity would be to defy even human logic. Metcalfe is eulogised beyond belief! He is presented as being (practically) unimpeachable.

The account of his conversion is dramatic, (all conversions are I admit,) but his "sensational," I mean in the worldly sense. His labours are portrayed as more abundant than almost any other servant of the Lord. (He is said to work for 17 hours a day, every day, every week, every month, every year! And often with fasting.) Yet he received "ordination" at the hand of men and associated with various denominations and identified himself with different organisations.

For a period of seven years he withdrew into a monastic way of life. Forsaking the assembling together with other believers; never "breaking bread," (I have no idea whether he ever did or has since.) Another protracted period of isolation from the Lords' people occurred, lasting for three more years.

He is "at present not access, even to the trustees," because he is engaged in an "immense undertaking" writing, now reaching into its 14th year! I take it that he has been isolated during those years too!

Metcalfe lives "a  solitary and celibate life," although his house is kept and cleaned, and his meals provided by a "Dutch housekeeper!" She does not live on the premises.

Sufficient I suggest to cast doubts upon the spirituality of this man as to his practical life.  As to his words: He has written a pamphlet entitled "Premillennialism Exposed." He is entitled to his views, (however false I may deem them to be;) but his remark that "The dispensationalist finds himself however unintentionally the advocate of a system which tears down the edifice of grace and tramples underfoot the Son of God in a humiliating reign of confusion." That is enough to repel me and anger me also. Doubtless numerous other saints present, and saints of a bygone day, who so laboured in the Word would agree. Brethren beware of the "teachings" of this man, whose advocates say he speaks as "thus saith the Lord, when in fact it is not The Word of God, but mere (false) words of a man.