Over The Years, Bro. Timothy Whittaker has inspired us with his wonderful knowledge of the scriptures. His talks and exhortations are always full of inspiring thoughts. We look forward to seeing him annually at the Year-End Bible schools in Jamaica.
Last December, though, was very special because Bro. Timothy was accompanied by his wife, Sis. Muriel, his daughter, Sis. Anna, and son-in-law, Bro. Simon. We were truly happy to have them. Their visit to May Pen was a welcome one. The brethren and sisters and visitors turned out in good numbers.
Considering the judgment seat
The topic for the Bible class was God’s Judgement Day. In his talk, Bro. Simon pointed out that the resurrection will be a bodily form (Phil. 3:21; I Cor. 15:35-38). If there is no resurrection, then the only thing is to eat and drink and enjoy ourselves.
In I Peter 5:4 we are told there is a crown of glory for the redeemed. The wise and the foolish will be at the judgement seat. Our reward of eternal life is related to how we live now (Matt. 25:31-35).
Bro. Timothy then put the icing on the cake with his usual energetic style. He was quick to remind us of the importance of watching patiently for the Lord’s return (Matt. 24:48-51). If we are not prepared and we think that the Lord will never come, then we will be cut asunder. We are not to fall asleep as the foolish virgins in Matthew 25:7. We are to be alert and prepared so that when Jesus comes and calls us, we can go straight ahead and meet him as the five wise virgins did.
Our faith, love and hope must be in tune with the Master’s requirements. Make use of the opportunity we have now. Our lives must be full of faith as the oil in the five wise virgins’ lamps in Matthew 25:7-9. There will be no time to go and buy — the Lord has come and the door is shut. Bro. Timothy drew our attention to Romans 2:28-29, where it says that the circumcision of the heart is not done with a knife. We have to cut bad things from our lives. It’s a complete change of heart or God will cut us off. The life we live now is like a woman in travail, but after giving birth there is rejoicing. There will be everlasting joy in the kingdom. Though we suffer pains and trials now, the reward of eternal life will bring great rejoicing and happiness.
Bro. Timothy and family, we thank you for enriching our understanding of the truth and wish you God’s blessings as you continue to spread the message of salvation.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One