The Spiritual World

                             This chapter taken from the book When Faith Came by Franklin Whittenburg © 1998-2006

      For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17,18 KJV).

      If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

    This study on the spiritual world I want to break down into five parts. Biblical references to this spiritual world, the heavenly Jerusalem (City of Gold), the world of Jesus, the significance of the spiritual world to the Christian, and different modes of entry into the spiritual world.

   To start with, the Bible speaks of two worlds existing on one planet earth, a natural world and a spiritual world. A world above and a world below. One world is visible to our eyes and one is invisible to our eyes, or is it? A world that exist between heaven and earth.

    And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy (Ezekiel 8:3 KJV).

   The Bible even says that this present world is not reality in Hebrews 11:3 KJV. This world is only a shadow of what is real. Please read the chapter “It’s About Time” for a deeper study into that world.

     Through faith we understand that the worlds (plural) were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear (Hebrews 11:3 KJV). 

    For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding (1 Chronicles 29:15 KJV).

    For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17,18 KJV).

    The word “worlds” used in Hebrews 11:3 KJV does not translate into “planets” in the Greek. We can also see a distinction made between “earth” and “world” in the book of Psalms.

     Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God (Psalms 90:2 KJV).

    Where can instances of the natural world and spiritual world existing together on the earth be found? I want to take a look at several examples although there are many more.

The first one that I want to look at is the story of Balaam and the donkey.

And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab. And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him. And the ass saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way (Numbers 22:21-23 KJV).

     By reading this story we can see that there was an angel that was standing in front of Balaam that he could not see, but his donkey could. As the story continues, God gives Balaam the ability to see with his human eyes into the spiritual world. This story also tells about how God gave the donkey the ability to talk to Balaam. If the Lord tarries, I may write a chapter one day about talking to animals, because they were originally created for fellowship with man. As we will see in many of the stories in the Bible, when the Lord releases our natural eyes, we can see into the spiritual world and according to this story, apparently animals can also.

      Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face (Numbers 22:31 KJV).

    Since much of these stories contain instances of interaction with angels, the Christian needs to know the correct course of action to follow when encountering an angel. Even though Balaam bowed to the angel, the Bible says that the angels are our fellowservants and helpers. The Bible plainly states that they are not to be worshipped by the Christian. In fact the Bible says if you do fall on your face and try to worship an angel, the angel is just going to tell you to get back up again. We and the angels are fellowservants, and both have our own jobs to do for the Kingdom. The Bible also says we shall even judge angels (1 Corinthians 6:3 KJV).

     And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 19:10).

     And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God (Revelation 22:8,9 KJV).

     Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God (Colossians 2:18,19 KJV).

    Angels also have a tough job to do sometimes (Daniel 10:13 KJV). The Bible says that we should even entertain angels when possible.

     Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2 KJV).

    The second story is about Elisha at Dothan.

    And he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan. Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about.  And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do?  And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha (2 Kings 6:13-17 KJV).

     Once again we can see a spiritual invisible world of angels operating on the same planet earth with us, but invisible to the naked eye until God gives us spiritual vision. Elisha the prophet could see the angels, but his servant could not until the Lord did release his eyes. Science and medicine calls these experiences “hallucinations”. People refer to hallucinations as seeing something that isn’t there, but what if the men of God were seeing something that is there? Can these “hallucinations” of angels interfere with the affairs of this world? Yes they can! One “hallucination” from God slaughtered an 185,000-man army!

 For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant, and they that escape out of mount Zion: the zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this.  Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shield, nor cast a bank against it. By the way that he came, by the same shall he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the LORD. For I will defend this city, to save it, for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake. And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses. So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh (2 Kings 19:31-34 KJV).

    Now I want to move into the New Testament and look at the Mount of Transfiguration.

     And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus (Mark 9:2-4 KJV).

     This story reveals much about the world of Jesus. In this story, Jesus not only could see into the spiritual world, but he could operate in the spiritual world, because he was “born of the Spirit”(Son of God) as well as born of a woman (Son of man). We see also that Peter, James and John could see into this spiritual world with their human eyes also.

   What body was Jesus in when he stepped into the spiritual world to talk to Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration? The same physical body that later shed blood and died on a cross for you and me (Hebrews 2:14,15 KJV)! This story in the Bible was showing that Jesus was the door between the spiritual and natural world. The Bible says that only his raiment and his countenance changed not his body. We also see Jesus could vanish and reappear and walk through a closed door in the same flesh and bone body that hung on the cross! Remember the tomb that held the physical body was empty after the resurrection!

      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. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet (Luke 24:36-40 KJV).

     And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight (Luke 24:30,31 KJV).

   And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you (John 20:26 KJV).

     Could a disciple of Jesus that was “born of the Spirit” also vanish and reappear in a flesh body like Jesus?

     And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.  And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea (Acts 38-40 KJV).

     By looking at these different examples in the Bible, we can see that your physical body that you are in, like Philip, can operate in the spiritual world and the eyes you are reading this with can see in the spiritual world when you are empowered by the Holy Spirit that dwells in you (Romans 8:11 KJV). How about a prophet?

     And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy (Ezekiel 8:3 KJV).

     The Bible says that the prophet Ezekiel was taken into the spiritual world by a “lock of his hair” which would also have to mean that the physical body of the prophet could exist and travel in the spiritual world when kept by the power of God (Ephesians 2:6 KJV). Paul said flesh and blood couldn’t inherit the Kingdom of God, but what about flesh and Spirit as Jesus showed.

     Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot ENTER into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again (John 3:5-7 KJV).

    But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his (Romans 8:9 KJV).

    The Bible says that the Christians are not “in the flesh” but  “in the Spirit” yet the Christian is still in a physical body. Which means you can be a “spiritual” man living in a physical body.

     Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted (Galatians 6:1 KJV).

    And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (1 Corinthians 3:1-5 KJV).

   This proves that “the flesh” that is keeping the Christian from access to the spiritual world is not the flesh of the physical body. Please read the chapter “Understanding Circumcision” for a deeper study of the different types of flesh. In the natural man the blood is the source of life. In the spiritual man, the Holy Spirit is the source of life. The Bible speaks of our natural bodies being quickened into a spiritual body by that same Holy Spirit (Romans 8:11 KJV). What is the difference between a natural body and a spiritual body? Lets take a look at what a spiritual body looks like. Both Adam and Jesus were in a physical body of flesh and blood like us (1 John 4:2,3 KJV)(Hebrews 2:14-17 KJV), yet one was considered a natural man and one was a spiritual man!

     And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening (living) spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven (1 Corinthians 15:45-47 KJV). 

     First the Bible says that our spiritual bodies will be like the angels body.

    For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven (Mark 12:25 KJV).

   What do the angel’s bodies look like? They look just like us! All through out the Bible, there are stories about angels appearing as men. They could eat food just like us (Genesis 18:8, 19:1-3 KJV). According to the Bible, these angels are currently walking about among us.

    Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2 KJV).

    All through out the Bible you see instances where angels interacted with men and women. So how could you tell if these spiritual beings were human or not, even though they are in a spiritual body that looks just like our natural body? If they didn’t want you to know they were spiritual beings, then you couldn’t tell.

     And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him (Luke 24:15,16 KJV).

      There is also a difference between angels and unclean spirits and demons. In the Bible, angels of God never “possessed” people because they already had a body of their own which the Bible says appears like men. To possess men, these angels would have to leave their own habitations. Spirits or demons on the other hand need a human or animal body as a host to posses. One thing that mankind I think keeps forgetting, is that the human being is a host species, but Jesus Christ is the Lord of hosts. The physical body can be indwelt by more than one being as plainly taught through out the Bible. It is compared in the Bible to an empty vessel that needs to be filled. Two or more beings can indwell one body. For example, women that are pregnant with child have two beings indwelling one body, their life and the life of their child. As a host species, an unclean spirit or the Holy Spirit can indwell you. Each spirit brings their powers with them to dwell in your body. In the case of being indwelt by the Holy Spirit we find instances of super strength in the story of Samson and the ability to tell the future in John 16:13. But Satan also has an imitation. In the case of an unclean spirit or demon, we find also instances of super strength in Acts 19:16 KJV and the ability to tell the future in Acts 16:16-19 KJV.

      The last and most important example that I want to look at is the heavenly Jerusalem (City of Gold). Abraham also knew of this spiritual world because he looked for this spiritual city!

     By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:9,10 KJV).

    But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city (Hebrews 11:16 KJV).

    And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain (Zion), and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, (Revelation 21:10 KJV).

      But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

    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).

     First question that must be answered is what does the heavenly Jerusalem look like? The Bible calls it a “city of gold”. I think King Solomon tried to make the earthly Jerusalem comparable to the heavenly Jerusalem by overlaying many of the things he built with gold. In three different verses we find that the Golden City is transparent and invisible to our natural eyes. If it was in front of us we could look right through it.

    And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; (Revelation 21:10,11 KJV).

   And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass (Revelation 21:18 KJV).

     And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass (Revelation 21:21 KJV).

    Notice that the “pearly gates” are on the New Jerusalem that descends out of Heaven and they are all made of one pearl. Who is that one pearl that makes up the gates through which we must enter the Golden City?

     Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it (Matthew 13:45 KJV).

     So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple (Luke 14:33 KJV).

      But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (Philippians 3:7,8 KJV).

     Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me. And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich. And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God (Luke 18:22-25 KJV).

     For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content (1 Timothy 6:7 KJV).

     I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture (John 10:9 KJV).

     Through Jesus Christ the pearl of great price (because He will cost you your life Romans 12:1, but He will give you His life in return, Galatians 2:20), the saints can enter the gates of the kingdom of God!

      There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last (Luke 13:28-30 KJV).

     Did Jesus, as the door between the natural world and the kingdom of God, open the gates of the heavenly Jerusalem at the Mount of Transfiguration and let the disciples look in? At the entrance to the gates of the cities in the Old Testament was where the elders always communicated and discussed city business. You should see the same pattern with the heavenly Jerusalem.

 But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God. And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem (Luke 9:27-31 KJV).

      For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount (2 Peter 1:16-18 KJV).

    If the kingdom of heaven is “at hand” as Jesus taught, then the wall of the city could be right in front of your eyes in a spiritual world and you would never know it just like the angel that stood before Balaam, that he could not see. Could the gate to enter the City of Gold be right in front of your eyes also? Could people live their whole lives in this world just outside the walls of this spiritual invisible city?

     Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie (Revelation 22:14,15 KJV).

    God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation (Job 14:13,14); That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: (Acts 17:24-27 KJV).

    What is the key that will open the gates to the Golden City and the kingdom of God? Please read the chapter “Understanding the Kingdom” for a more in-depth study of the keys to the kingdom.

    Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the KEY OF KNOWLEDGE: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered (Luke 11:52 KJV).

      For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God (Ephesians 3:14-19 KJV).

     And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of THE FAITH (not the unity of all faiths), and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV).

    As we have just discussed, the question that must be answered is where is the Golden City located? The Bible gives several verses that describe its location. Through the Holy Spirit we have access to the Golden City in the spiritual world.

    And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, (Revelation 21:10 KJV).

   The heavenly Jerusalem (Golden City) always appears at a mountain. What mountain is that and where is that mountain located?

     But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

      And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them (Revelation 20:9 KJV).

    Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (Revelation 3:12 KJV).

     His foundation is in the holy mountains. The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah (Psalms 87:1-3 KJV).

    The New Jerusalem is a spiritual city, which the Bible refers to as the “city of gold”. For this study, I will refer to it as “the Golden City”. The Bible says that it is through Jesus Christ alone that the Christian has access to the New Jerusalem, because Jesus is the only way to the Father! But the Bible also points out a very real location of a very real Golden City in the spiritual world.

   Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away (Isaiah 51:11 KJV).

    Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (Ephesians 2:19 KJV).

      For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it (Psalms 132:13,14 KJV).

     As we have already seen, the Golden City is located on Mount Zion in the “sides of the north”.

     Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness.  Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. God is known in her palaces for a refuge (Psalms 48:1-3 KJV).

     For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south (Psalms 75:6 KJV).

    The Christian should study about the heavenly Jerusalem and Mount Zion, because in the Spirit we have been there, we are there now, and we shall return there!

  Been there: But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

     And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her. The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah (Psalms 87:5,6 KJV).

  Are there: Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: (Ephesians 2:5,6 KJV).

     If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.  For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

  Return there: Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall RETURN, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away (Isaiah 51:11 KJV). I have one question about this verse? How can the redeemed of the Lord return to someplace they have never been before? It would be impossible to fulfill this scripture, unless of course, you have already had the experience of being there before……

    So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain: then shall Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass through her any more (Joel 3:17 KJV).

    For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (Ephesians 2:18,19 KJV).

     On Mount Zion “up above” is where the Bible says the throne of God is located. The gate of Judah, which tribe Jesus is from, is even the middle gate on the north side of the city (Ezekiel 48:31 KJV).

     Before Jesus was born in the flesh, there was a strict Jewish sect called the Essenes that lived in an area called Qumran that looked to the north for Mount Zion and the throne of God. They had a library that contained ancient scriptures and books of the Bible. Because of their faith and study of the scriptures, whenever they buried someone, they would bury them with their head facing to the south so in the resurrection they would come up out of the grave facing the throne of God on Mount Zion in the north.

     And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many (Matthew 27:52,53 KJV).

    Today, because of Jesus we can enter in the Kingdom of God by any direction!

    There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God (Luke 13:28,29 KJV).

     The Bible says that Jesus is now at the right hand of the Father on Mount Zion with “the church of the firstborn” (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV)(1 Peter 2:6 KJV), but he will return one day with the church to Mount Olivet on the east to set up a millennial kingdom on earth (Zechariah 14:4 KJV) (Jude 14,15 KJV) (Revelation 19:11-16 KJV). The first time Jesus came from Mount Olivet he rode a colt and came from the east (Luke 19:28-40 KJV), the second time Jesus comes to earth, He comes to Mount Olivet and He comes on a white horse (Revelation 19:11-16 KJV). Between these two appearances on Mount Olivet, Jesus comes “in the air” from above without setting foot on the earth, to receive the remaining part of the church that is still on earth (Luke 21:28 KJV)(1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 KJV). In scripture, Jesus always returns to earth from the east, but seems to dwell in the north (Mount Zion)(Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

      For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be (Matthew 24:27 KJV).

     For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (Ephesians 3:14-18 KJV).

    The Bible also speaks of a false Messiah coming between the first and second coming of Jesus to earth. The Bible says that Mount Olivet is where Jesus returns to, and not where He spiritually came from! That is plainly taught to be Mount Zion, the throne of God, not Mount Olivet to the east of Jerusalem (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

    The Bible doesn’t speak of Mount Olivet in the spiritual world as it does Mount Zion. If you are looking for the return of Jesus and believe in the “rapture” then you are looking for his next appearing “in the air”. If you do not believe in the “rapture” then you are looking for the next appearing of the Messiah to set foot upon the earth on Mount Olivet to set up a thousand year reign.

     During his ministry, Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is “at hand”. Many in religion have always placed the coming of the heavenly Jerusalem in the future, because it is at the end of the book of Revelation that John saw the Golden City descend out of Heaven and take a position between heaven and earth. The city does appear in the future, but what if it appeared in the past or present also? For John to be taken somewhere and shown the Golden City descend from heaven would have to mean that the future already exists somewhere possibly in another dimension for John to be taken and shown it descending and then came back and wrote about what he saw. Please read the chapter “Its About Time” for an explanation of this spiritual dimension.

    How does the heavenly Jerusalem relate to the earthly Jerusalem? One example, the earthly Jerusalem supposedly had a garbage dump outside the city that burned with fire called Gehenna. The city could see the smoke from the burning. Did the heavenly Jerusalem also have such a place within sight of the city? Which side of the city was this burning pit on?

     He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death (Revelation 21:7,8 KJV).

      Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie (Revelation 22:14,15 KJV).

      The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name (Revelation 14:10,11 KJV).

    The Bible speaks of an eternal “lake of fire”, but some verses in the Bible also seem to refer to a “hell on earth” where people “burn” in passions and lust and exist in misery, torment, and sorrow. The unbelievers are referred to as “walking dead in trespasses and sins”. Could the Bible be referring to two “hells” a natural and a spiritual? The Bible speaks of hell as being “outer darkness”. Could this “hell” be referring to those living in spiritual darkness (outer darkness) and torment in this world until they finally die in their sins? Are they then delivered up later, judged and cast into an eternal lake of fire? A future  spiritual “hell”

    And the sea gave up the dead, which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.  And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.  And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:13-15).

   The Christian walks in this world with “inner light” and has already been justified and judged “not guilty” by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatian 2:20 KJV). Jesus has already freed us from a “hell on earth” and spiritual death and is resurrecting us now to walk in a new and “living” way. I may do a future study on “hell on earth” if the Lord tarries.

    And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:  I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Revelation 1:18 KJV).

   Verily, verily, I say unto you,  He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live (John 5:24,25 KJV).

    Jesus was also crucified at the earthly Jerusalem in the natural world, which is spiritually called Sodom (natural Jeruselem) and Egypt (natural world).

    And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified (Revelation 11:8 KJV).

     And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias: Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem (Luke 9:30,31 KJV).

    Jesus also spoke of both earthly and heavenly Jerusalem in his earthly ministry.

    Nevertheless I must walk to day, and to morrow, and the day following: for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem (heavenly). O Jerusalem, Jerusalem (earthly), which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! (Luke 13:33,34 KJV).

    I have a theory that Jesus went to this mountain and the heavenly Jerusalem several times during his earthly ministry.

     And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray (Luke 9:28): and when the evening was come, he was there alone (Matthew 14:23 KJV).

     And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, (Mark 3:13,14 KJV).

    The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he (John 4:19-26 KJV).

    Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world. When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone (John 6:14,15 KJV).

    Why is the heavenly Jerusalem so important to the true Christian? It is the Christians new home and “spiritual newbirth” place. This is where we rule over the earth from.

     But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

     And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall establish her. The LORD shall count, when he writeth up the people, that this man was born there. Selah (Psalms 87:5,6 KJV).

    But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: (Ephesians 2:4-6 KJV).

    If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Galatians 3:1 KJV).

    Many religions through out history worshipped the sun as the “light of this world”, but the Christian walks in a light that the sun cannot provide.

    And THE CITY HAD NO NEED OF THE SUN, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life (Revelation 21:23-27 KJV).

     And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 22:5 KJV).

Point to Ponder: I want to stop here briefly and explain the difference between spiritual days and natural days. Natural days “lighted by the sun” go from morning to evening, light to darkness, day unto night, life unto death, etc. Spiritual days “lighted by the Spirit” go the opposite direction, evening to morning, darkness into light, night unto day, death unto life, etc. When the world was first created in six days, the Bible says that the evening and the morning were the first day, and the evening and the morning was the second day, etc.

    In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.  And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day (Genesis 1:1-5 KJV).

   Days can be used in other ways in the Bible instead of just to describe a twelve-hour period of sunlight. It can also be used to describe a time of spiritual enlightenment.

       We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (2 Peter 1:19-21 KJV).

Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,  Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (Ephesians 1:15-20 KJV).

      But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us (2 Corinthians 4:3-7 KJV).

But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: (2 Timothy 1:10 KJV).

    The children of Israel started all their days in the evening and then they go to morning in this same spiritual pattern. There were some that were in the house of Judah that turned their faces toward the star that rose in the east, which we call the “sun”. God punished them for this!

    Then said he unto me, Hast thou seen this, O son of man? turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations than these. And he brought me into the inner court of the LORD’S house, and, behold, at the door of the temple of the LORD, between the porch and the altar, were about five and twenty men, with their backs toward the temple of the LORD, and their faces toward the east; and they worshipped the sun toward the east (Ezekiel 8:15,16 KJV).

     These verses may be referring to people that follow eastern religions as a “guiding light” instead of people that actually worship the sun. Today there are many churches that build their church buildings with the congregation facing to the east also and some build them facing to the north. I have wondered if churches do this just out of pure coincidence or is this done as a representation of which direction the “new paradigm” spiritual light they are embracing comes from? The reason I wonder is because some churches are embracing very eastern philosophies like yoga and calling them “Christian”. Coincidently, the KJV Bible uses the word “orthrinos” to describe Jesus as the “morning star” in Revelation 22:16 KJV.

     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 (Revelation 22:16 KJV).

     According to Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, the Greek word “orthrinos” used in Revelation 22:16 KJV means the “north star”. The Greek word for the sun (east star) is “helios”. Some Bible translations have translated the word “morning star” to mean Lucifer who is called “son of the morning” in Isaiah 14:12 KJV. Lucifer may have been an angel of light at one time, but Jesus Christ has always been the true light. As you can see in this following verse (Isaiah 14:12-16 KJV), Lucifer was not allowed in the congregation “in the sides of the north” upon Mount Zion even though he was allowed upon the holy mountatin (Ezekiel 28:14 KJV), so any light coming from the Golden City cannot be coming from Lucifer.

    How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this THE MAN that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; (Isaiah 14:12-16 KJV).

     In the natural world there are only two main lights that shine out of darkness (night). That would be the “moon” and the “north star”. Regardless, the light that shines out of the New Jerusalem on Mount Zion is Jesus Christ alone.

     And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it (Revelation 21:23,24 KJV).

     This is very important! I just shared this information because I found it interesting in my own Bible studies and I thought you might also. In no way should the Christian ever turn to worshipping the north star, the sun (east star), the moon, or any of the host of heaven as a representation of Jesus. Jesus is described as a Lamb many times in the Bible, but Christians do not go around worshipping sheep! At least I hope not!

    The New Jerusalem is also part of our inheritance through Abraham. Please read the chapter “the Old Testament Church” for a much deeper study of the Abrahamic Covenant.

      For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise. Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.   For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written, Rejoice, thou barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest not: for the desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman. So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free (Galatians 4:22-31 KJV).

      What did Jesus have to say about the spiritual world? Jesus himself said that the spiritual world was his world and not the world in which we live, so the Christian should spend time learning about it (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

     Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence (John 18:36 KJV).

     Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come. Then said the Jews, Will he kill himself? because he saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come. And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world (John 8:21-23 KJV).

     The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath (Proverbs 15:24 KJV).

     And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world (John 8:23 KJV).

     What significance does the spiritual world have to the Christian? Jesus himself said that the new home of the Christian is the spiritual world! It is the world of our Father.

    If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you (John 15:19 KJV).

     I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father (John 16:28 KJV).

     For years I have heard pastors say that we need to stay away from the spiritual world, that it is “the world of the dead”. The pastors would say that “we can be too heavenly minded, to be any earthly good” which is in direct contradiction to Colossians 3:1-3.

      If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.  Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.  For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

     For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:5,6 KJV).

    But when I surrendered all to Jesus and died (Romans 12:1), the spiritual world now became my world also and I became a stranger and pilgrim to this world (John17:16 KJV). Paul even desired this spiritual world over the natural world (Philippians 1:23). Jesus said in John 18:36 that his “kingdom” was not of this world and then Jesus said that the Christian is “not of this world” also in John 15:19. Paul reaffirms this in Colossians 1:13!

     Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: (Colossians 1:12,13 KJV).

     When talking about the spiritual world, everybody focuses on an evil aspect because they associate it with death, but what about the opposite? In the spiritual world, which is the world of Jesus, you have Jesus on the right hand of the Father, the heavenly angelic host, the church of the firstborn and all the saints that have already crossed over.

      But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24 KJV).

    Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; (Ephesians 2:19 KJV).

    For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,  (Ephesians 3:14,15 KJV).

   What do all these beings have in common? They are alive!

    But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living. And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine (Matthew 22:31-33 KJV).

     If all the ones with Jesus are “alive”, then where does death still exist? Death exists in this present world in which we claim to “live”! Christians are the living that are walking among the dead of this world. Jesus reaffirms this when he told his disciple “to let the dead bury their dead”. The Bible also speaks of the unsaved as returning to “their dust”.

    And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead (Matthew 8:21,22 KJV).

     Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled: thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust (Psalms 104:29 KJV).

     The Bible says that the wages of sin is death and eternal life through Jesus Christ is the gift of God.

      For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23 KJV).

    This verse says that death has to be earned (wages) and eternal life is a free gift of God for believing in Jesus Christ (John 3:16 KJV), yet in this world people are trying to earn life from God and accepting death as free. This is exactly opposite to the Gospel! The Bible says that death is the enemy of the Christian.

    The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death (1 Corinthians 15:26 KJV).

     That is the curse that Adam was under (Genesis 3:17-19 KJV)!

      For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6 KJV).

     The natural man is looking forward to death (as in Adam all die), while the spiritual man is now looking forward to life and peace (as in Christ all shall be made alive) because they have already passed from death unto life at the cross (Galatians 2:20 KJV)! What is your focus? It is only appointed unto men once to die then the judgment.

     And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: (Hebrews 9:27 KJV).

    Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:1-4 KJV).

     Some religions teach that Jesus was dragged into hell and fought with demons for three days and then was resurrected out of “hell”. What does the Bible say happened at the crucifixion?  When Jesus gave his life on the cross, where did his spirit go at that moment? Did it go to hell after the crucifixion or directly into God’s hands!

    And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost (Luke 23:46).

    Following the same pattern as Jesus and taking up our cross like He commanded us to follow Him, we offer our life to God as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1 KJV) and are crucified with Him. Does our spirits then go to hell or a place called purgatory, or do they go directly to the Father like Jesus?

    If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

   The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath (Proverbs 15:24 KJV).

    Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) (Ephesians 4:8-10 KJV).

     The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, THIS DAY is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (Luke 4:18-21 KJV).

    When I died with Christ (Galatians 2:20), He took my judgment and God said, “that I deserve to live” (Justification of life). People that did not die with Christ still await a future judgment (Revelation 20:11-13 KJV).

     We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death (1 John 3:14 KJV).

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life (John 5:24 KJV).

    I want to also briefly discuss other religions because there have been many gods and goddesses worshiped through out history that men believe rule from this spiritual world. These other god’s almost always follow the same design. When man creates a god to worship, he usually makes them in male and female forms to relate to his image. The Bible says that God is a Spirit (John 4:23 KJV) and Jesus said that a spirit has not flesh and bones (Luke 24:39 KJV). So by this we can conclude that God does not have a flesh and bones body, which kicks out any idea that any of humanity is God (Ephesians 2:12 KJV). But the Son of God, which is Jesus Christ, WAS divinity and did have a physical body.

      Foreasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Hebrews 2:14,15 KJV).

    For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9 KJV).

     Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world (1 John 4:1-3 KJV).

     Does Jesus want us to follow Him into this spiritual world  today?

     Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. (John13:36,37 KJV).

     Why couldn’t Peter follow Jesus even to the point of physical death? Because Jesus had not died on the cross to open the door into that spiritual world for him! To enter the world of the Heavenly Father, you have to have a Heavenly Father!

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber (John 10:1 KJV).

     Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God (John 3:3 KJV).

     Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God (John 20:17 KJV).

     He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) (John 7:38,39 KJV).

     The Bible speaks of several modes of entry into the spiritual world, which I will discuss later, but the only way into the spiritual world for the Christian is through THE WAY, which is Jesus.

     And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:4-6 KJV).

    After Jesus died on the cross and the disciples received the Holy Ghost, they then became “spiritual” or “born of the Spirit” and they could now finally follow Jesus into the spiritual world.

    Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: (John 20:21,22 KJV).

   Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me (John 21:19-22 KJV).

     Today the Christian should follow Jesus and enter into that spiritual world through the cross of Christ alone. Jesus said, “follow me”, not through religious rituals, or mystical practices, but through His death on the cross. Many people have changed the gospel from “Jesus is the way” to “Jesus showed the way”.

   And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it (Mark 8:34,35 KJV).

     The natural man lives his life in a box. How does man escape the box of the natural world in which he is trapped? The only way is through the cross of Christ without dying an actual physical death. The true Christian dies through someone else’s physical death (Jesus).

     Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Hebrews 2:14,15 KJV).

     I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

     What the “free moral agent” claims as their source of freedom (freewill) is actually the power of the box that has them trapped! Are you living in the box and held captive by the natural world? Jesus can set you free (Romans 8:18-23 KJV), even if your all powerful “freewill” cannot!

     But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) (Ephesians 4:7-10 KJV).

    The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath (Proverbs 15:24 KJV).

    And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Revelation 1:17,18 KJV).

   When man is “living” in the natural world, he is trapped there until he dies. The natural world (Egypt) in which man “lives” becomes his coffin.

   Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal (John 12:24,25 KJV).

     Many people try different forms of meditations and techniques to learn or gain access to this spiritual world. Since meditations and techniques are an act of yourself applied to yourself, reason would then have to conclude that the farthest you can possibly go with meditation is to the end of yourself. There is where you find the “self-barrier” that is the wall that has you trapped in this world. Some religions have finally figured this out and the futility of self-meditation practices so they have instead turned to seducing spirits for knowledge of the spiritual world. Those that die with Christ are set free from the box to live life eternal. We are able to cross that “self-barrier” through Jesus Christ (the veil of the temple Hebrews 10:20 KJV).

    Since death is what exists in the natural world and eternal life is what exists in the spiritual world then focusing on life in the natural world, would be the same as focusing on death! Now can you see how dangerous one little phrase can be, “You can be too heavenly minded to be any earthly good’.

   He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal (John 12:25 KJV).

    For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace (Romans 8:6 KJV).

    If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3 KJV).

    Once again, you can see the same parallel when Peter took his eyes off Jesus and looked at the storms around him and started to sink in the water (Matthew 14:25-31 KJV). That is why the Christian looks on “things above” and not on the things on the earth, because Jesus is now up above! The earth is where the storms are! The purpose of the Gospel is to get the rest of the world to focus on the one above (Jesus).

     Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me (John 12:31,32 KJV).

   These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33 KJV).

     Many in the churches today are running around looking for “accountability partners” to help them achieve the “victory” over this world. What would happen if everybody looked to Jesus sitting up above as the one they are accountable to?

      But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord,  every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way (Romans 14:10-13 KJV).

     Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.  Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:1-4 KJV).

    I want to share here at the end of this chapter about different access points into the spiritual world. Be not deceived, if Christians do not teach their children about the spiritual world, then there are other religions that will. Some believe that Solomon, who was given the wisdom of God (1 King 4:29 KJV), mixed that wisdom of the spiritual world together with the different religions that his wives turned him to and built “high places”(1 Kings 11:4-8 KJV). Many of those “high places” still remain today.

     Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.  Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak (Ephesians 6:10-20 KJV).

    (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)  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; (2 Corinthians 10:4,5 KJV).

     For example, let’s look at witchcraft and sorcery since it is a very old religion and it is making a very strong comeback today, especially with children because they are easily enticed with the promise of supernatural power. But before we research this further, I want to also stop here briefly and set the record straight as many Christians today are associating the sacrifice of the lion in story of the Chronicles of Narnia with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In this movie by C.S. Lewis, it portrayed the evil witch as killing the good lion by stabbing it with a spear. When she stabbed the lion, you could see it’s eyes go dim as if “evil” just killed “good”. But according to the Biblical account, Jesus was already dead before the soldier stabbed him with the spear!

     But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water (John 19:33,34 KJV).

     Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father (John 10:17,18 KJV).

    This is very important to take note of! The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus was God’s plan from the beginning, never Satan’s (Hebrews 2:14-18 KJV). It wasn’t “evils” plan to kill Jesus, because Satan even tried to stop Jesus from going to the cross through Peter! The reason being, Satan knew that through death, Jesus would destroy him, who at that time had the power of death (Hebrews 2:14,15 KJV).

     From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men (Matthew 16:21-23 KJV).

      And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Revelation 13:8 KJV).

    Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage (Hebrews 2:14,15 KJV).

    The power to resurrect the lion from the dead in this movie was also presented as a more powerful “deep” magic overcoming an evil magic. The Bible doesn’t make a distinction between “good” magic and “bad” magic, but it condemns all magic! Jesus was resurrected from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit, not “deep” magic and so are we!

     But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you (Romans 8:11 KJV).

    Witchcraft spoken of in the Bible pre-dates Solomon and goes at least back to the captivity of Israel in Egypt and probably even further. The Egyptian sorcerers could turn their staffs into snakes, which proves that sorcery and witchcraft do have some power that they can tap into, but they do not have ultimate power. Why would some one want to walk in the power of witchcraft when they can walk in the power of God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit?

     But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33 KJV).

    For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power (Romans 8:20 KJV).

    For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake (1 Thessalonians 1:5 KJV).

   What kind of power did the men of God have access to in the Bible?

    Power over fire.

    He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God (Daniel 3:25 KJV).

    Power over water.

   And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus (Matthew 14:25-29 KJV).

    But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it (2 Kings 6:5-7 KJV).

   Power over physical weight.

    And Samson lay till midnight, and arose at midnight, and took the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts, and went away with them, bar and all, and put them upon his shoulders, and carried them up to the top of an hill that is before Hebron (Judges 16:3 KJV).

    Power over time.

    And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz (2 Kings 20:11 KJV).

   Power over the sun and moon.

    Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.  And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day (Joshua 10:12,13 KJV).

     Now you know why Christians worship the God of Israel (Jehovah) instead of the sun and moon. According to the Bible, Joshua an Israelite man that was walking in the power of the God of Israel (Jehovah) commanded the sun, which was considered one of the most powerful Egyptian gods, to stop in place. The sun obeyed.

   Power over weather.

    Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.  And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit (James 5:17,18 KJV).

   Power over physical death.

    But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive (Acts 9:40,41 KJV).

   Power over animals.

    And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, (Hebrews 11:32,33 KJV).

   And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there. So he went and did according unto the word of the LORD: for he went and dwelt by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. And the ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning, and bread and flesh in the evening; and he drank of the brook (1 Kings 17:4-6 KJV).

     And he went up from thence unto Bethel: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head. And he turned back, and looked on them, and cursed them in the name of the LORD. And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them (2 Kings 2:23,24 KJV).

      The Bible also speaks of several modes of entry into the spiritual world which means the Christian cannot deny they exist if the believe the Bible. I will just share them briefly and I will not go into an in depth study of each. For more study on the spiritual world, please read the chapter “It’s About Time”. I have already discussed THE ONLY WAY (Jesus) for the Christian. You have to first go through the cross. But after you are “born of the Spirit”, you do now have access to these different modes of entry when you learn how. It is important to note that, “men of God” were the ones that were experiencing all these different modes of entry into the spiritual world that the Bible speaks of.

                                                                 Visions

      But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: (Acts 11:3 KJV).  

       It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory.  I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter (2 Corinthians 12:1 KJV).

      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: (Acts 2: 16,17 KJV).

                                                            Trances

    The word trance in the Bible is “Ekstasis” in the Greek, which translates to “a displacement of the mind”. This is where we get the word “ecstasy”.

      On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: (Acts 10:10 KJV).

      He hath said, which heard the words of God, and knew the knowledge of the most High, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open: (Numbers 24:16 KJV).

                                                                  Ladders

      This is an interesting little way into heaven. Could this be the mode of entry that Jesus was referring to in John 10:1 KJV?

     And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; (Genesis 28:10-13 KJV).

                                                     Out of body experience

       It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory.  I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.  I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter (2 Corinthians 12:2 KJV). 

                                                              Translations 

       Notice how Enoch had a testimony that he pleased God before his translation.

      By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God (Hebrews 11:5,6 KJV)

     How can we please God today?

     Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen (Hebrews 13:20,21 KJV).

     Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: (Colossians 1:3 KJV).  

                                                   Caught away in the Spirit

      And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip,  that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea (Acts 8:39 KJV). 

     So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns (Rev 17:3 KJV). 

    After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.  And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne (Revelation  4:1,2 KJV).

                                                       Chariot of Fire

     And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven (2 Kings 2:11 KJV)

                                                             Dreams

       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: (Acts 2:17,18 KJV).

       For God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed; Then he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction, That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man.  He keepeth back his soul from the pit, and his life from perishing by the sword (Job 33:14-18 KJV).

                                                           Hearing Voices

     And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth (1 Samuel 3:10 KJV).

    And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times (Numbers 22:28 KJV).

    And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah (1 Kings 19:11-13 KJV).

       And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden (Genesis 3:8 KJV).

      It still amazes me how much knowledge can be gleaned from a KJV Bible that everybody seems to be forsaking for newer and “easier” translations. I have really enjoyed doing this Bible study about the spiritual world and sharing it with other Christians, but science and medicine believe they already have the Christian experience  figured out.

    “In temporal lobe epilepsy, there may be an intensification of the patient’s emotional reactions (peace, love, joy, etc.), vague preoccupation with moral and religious issues, a tendency to write excessively, and sometimes aggressiveness”. Page 137, 11^th Edition Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. (Words in parentheses added).