Sometimes things just fall in my lap out of nowhere saving me the effort of deciding the subject of the next Without the Camp study. The latest example is current events regarding the constant conflict that is the Middle East.

I’m no expert by any stretch, but follow enough of the so-called “news developing in the Middle East and Israel” to have a partially informed understanding of the constant, generational conflict in that region of the world.

In an article posted at the Washington Standard with permission from Chuck Baldwin titled:

“Mike Huckabee: A Disgrace To Our Country, A Disgrace To The Constitution, A Disgrace To Christ’s New Covenant”

Found here:

https://thewashingtonstandard.com/mike-huckabee-a-disgrace-to-our-country-a-disgrace-to-the-constitution-a-disgrace-to-christs-new-covenant/

Mr. Baldwin quotes Mike Huckabee, current ambassador to Israel, criticizing a Christian organization in Israel known as the Christian patriarchs of Jerusalem for their comments directed at people who support and advance Christian Zionism.

According to a quick review of Mr. Chuck Baldwin’s “Bio” (who I hadn’t heard of until this article), he holds, let’s just say, all the expected credentials for your standard, Mark 1 , Mod 1 Baptist pastor; the schools, the diplomas, degrees, the experience of “running” the religion of the Baptists.

I have often referred to myself as a “minister without portfolio”, whereas Mr. Baldwin and Mr. Huckabee both are certainly “ministers with portfolio” from among the many versions of the Baptist denomination.

Meaning we have Baptist on Baptist clergymen manifesting the division in their beliefs despite being of the same denomination.

I leave it to the interested to form your own impression of Mr. Baldwin and Mr. Huckabee’s “Christian” walk.

Share Without The Camp

Now, I don’t know about the average person’s knowledge and understanding of the religious sect of Christian Zionism, but I for one had to do some considerable “research”, referring largely to the “Great Big Book of Everything” with my favorite search engine to better understand it as I worked up this study.

And it is a religious sect pitching itself, of course, as “the way, the light, the truth...”

According to search results, Christian Zionism is “Christianity” disguised as Christianized Judaism, at least as far as I understand it.

Here are specific excerpts from Mr. Baldwin’s article to get enough context for readers not interested in knowing the full scope of his criticism of Mike Huckabee’s comments:

Please note: This excerpt has been re-formatted from its original publication so readers can track who’s saying what.

Date: February 19, 2026

“Recently, Christian patriarchs of Jerusalem published a joint letter condemning the nefarious effects that Christian Zionism is inflicting in the Holy Land. They wrote:

Immediately, Israel’s ambassador and top pitchman, Mike Huckabee, swung into action.

In his X post, Huckabee fired back at the Christian leaders in Jerusalem:

Everything Huckabee just said in that paragraph is rank heresy.

Huckabee openly admits that his religious faith is founded on Judaism. But Judaism has nothing to do with the religion of Old Testament Israel. Judaism is the religion of the Pharisees who hated and crucified Christ. Christianity was birthed by Jesus Christ, not by Judaism. There is no such thing as a “Judeo-Christian worldview.” One’s worldview is either Christian or Judaistic; it cannot be both. Judaism did NOT create Western Civilization or the United States. Christianity did.”

End excerpt.

Share

Don’t want to get lost in the noise of the article, but rather want to focus on the words of Mike Huckabee quoted in the article as his overarching “belief” about his “Christian” faith.

The only thing I would say regarding Mr. Baldwin’s assertions about “the religion of Old Testament Israel” is I agree that Judaism, which I understand is predicated originally on the law of Moses, and Christianity are separate things, one directed at Israel, the other directed to both Jew and Gentile.

I also agree that a “Judeo-Christian Worldview” is not scripturally based or supported and to hold such a view of the world is to deny the truth of the gospel of the grace of God, where:

Galatians 3:28

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

---

Colossians 3:11

Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.

---

For this to be manifest in our age, in truth, there indeed is no such thing as “Judeo-Christians”, there are only Christians.

Acts 11:26

And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

---

And where Mr. Huckabee starts, for me, is the real tell.

He starts with these words:

“My Christian faith...”

He claims it as his, it’s personal, he possesses it, …he’s convicted in his soul.

And proceeds to explain that it, his Christian faith, is “built on the foundation of Judaism”...

The point here is that in doing so he has individualized the gospel of Jesus Christ. He’s one of many who see the church, the body of Christ made up of all the different “faiths”, the various denominations where we can all have our own opinions without expecting anyone to speak to doctrinal error when we see it.

It’s a form of interpretation when you stop and think about it with the collateral effect of division, how ever slight.

2 Peter 1:19-21

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.

---

He didn’t say: “the Christian faith” is built on the foundation of Judaism, which is still wrong, but also presumes to change the meaning of the word of God in to something else entirely.

What a contradiction in terms:

“Christian faith: built on Judaism”

I wouldn’t say I “follow” Mike Huckabee in any sense, but I’m certainly aware through his prominence and exposure in media of his political aspirations, his claim as a “Christian”, his background as a Baptist minister in some capacity.

He seems like a nice guy, kind, even tempered, genuine, appears to be a Christian man representing Jesus Christ as far as we can know through his public life.

I assume he’s a man of some influence in people’s lives in these same pursuits.

And yet, when we get a glimpse behind the curtain of his public persona as portrayed, a glimpse in to his doctrinal understanding of scripture, what do we see?

Bad doctrine...

The prevision of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I’ll say it again:

He can think, believe, and speak the things he wants and likewise can expect to be scrutinized as to the truth of his understanding.

Is it the truth of God or is it the truth of Mike Huckabee, “his truth”, “his faith”?

Romans 15:8

Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:

---

To those who have been influenced by Mike Huckabee and “stand” with him, do you follow his teachings out of reverence for his credentials and prominence?

Same question for those who follow Mr. Baldwin...

Are they right or wrong?

Or, do you and will you follow the truth of God discerned by reading and studying the word of God?

For that’s what’s at stake, a weighty decision about your soul that will be judged: do you follow the word of God or the word of Mike Huckabee, Chuck Baldwin, whoever?

In this study, we will answer whether Christianity is indeed “built on a foundation of Judaism...” or is it a whole ‘nother thing?

Once again, the concept of rightly dividing the word of truth, as Paul teaches, comes screaming to the forefront of comprehending the word of God.

2 Timothy 2:15

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

---

Think of what it takes for someone claiming to be a “Christian” to speak an understanding that can be shown to conflict with what the bible actually says.

They would have to ignore verses where God clearly explains his connection to His chosen people, the history of their relationship, the good and the bad, his purpose, their purpose, all separate from the rest of the Gentile world.

Exodus 29:45

And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God.

---

You would have to ignore Paul’s God given teaching regarding the standing of Gentiles in the flesh through those ages, those generations of the children of Israel.

Ephesians 2:11-12

Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;

That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

---

When was “at that time”?

When were Gentiles in the flesh, …aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise?

Throughout the ages chronicled in the “Old Testament” up through and including the death, burial, resurrection, ascension, and until the revelation of the mystery of Christ to the Gentile world.

To understand otherwise is to misappropriate commandments and doctrines of God as declared and testified by God in the Old Testament.

Thus, when Mr. Huckabee claims, his Christian faith is “built on the foundation of Judaism and without it, Christianity would not exist”, he speaks the lie, which is to say: it is not the truth of God.

Moreover, consider again Paul’s testimony in Acts chapters 23 and 26, as well as Galatians chapter 1, and Philemon chapter 3 regarding the history of his connection to the “Jew’s religion” before chosen by God / Jesus the Christ / the Holy Ghost to dispense the gospel of the grace of God to the ends of the earth.

As a citizen of both Israel and Rome, by blood and birth respectively, Paul speaks to the Jews of his Jewish heritage to establish his credentials, if you will, among his brethren.

And in Galatians chapter 1 specifically just after cursing anyone who preaches anything other than his gospel.

Acts 23:6

But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.

---

Acts 26:5

Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

---

Galatians 1:9-17

As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.

For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by his grace,

To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:

Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.

---

Philemon 3:5

Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

---

So, at a minimum, Paul’s testimony of his blood relationship to the children of Israel establishes these corollaries:

In his conversation in time past in the Jews’ religion, he persecuted the church of God.

At that time, the church of God was comprised of Jewish souls who believed Jesus is the Christ.

Strong’s entry number G2452 for the phrase “Jews’ religion”:

Strong’s G2454:

Ἰουδαϊσμός Ioudaïsmós, ee-oo-dah-is-mos’; from G2450; “Judaism”, i.e. the Jewish faith and usages:—Jews’ religion.

---

Strong’s G2450 as referenced in G2454 above:

Ἰουδαΐζω Ioudaḯzō, ee-oo-dah-id’-zo; from G2453; to become a Judæan, i.e. “Judaize”:—live as the Jews.

---

All to say in mathematical terms:

The Jews’ religion = Judaism = the sects of the Sadducees and Pharisees = the circumcision = the stock of Israel = of the twelve tribes of Israel = Hebrew = the law of Moses.

Meaning, just as Paul declares it, the “Jews’ religion” is to and for the Jews; they posses it, exclusive of all other peoples, unless you are proselytized and live as the Jews.

And all in context of the biblical point in time when Jesus finished and fulfilled his earthly ministry to his own, the Jews, the children of Israel, the house of Israel, the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

John 1:11

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

---

Leave a comment

As we’ve studied again and again, two separate dispensations, two different gospels preached in chronological order, one to the nation of Israel first, followed by the other to both Israel and all Gentile nations to the ends of the earth.

Galatians 2:7-10

But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;

(For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)

And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.

Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

---

A cut made by God:

On one side of the cut, his chosen people, the children of Israel, established by God, the law of Moses, the basis of all that is the “Jews’ religion”, separate from the rest of the world in their standing before God.

His dealings with them all in accordance with what is written and recorded in the Old Testament and Gospel’s of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

And the other side of that scriptural cut is God’s gift of grace.

Not the same, not of the “Jews religion”, but new, spiritual, separate...

Founded on the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus the Christ as foretold by the prophets.

Christianity therefore is not founded on Judaism, for the law is over, nailed to the cross; all are free and liberated from the bondage that is the law.

Colossians 2:8-15

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:

Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

---

It is this knowledge, this understanding, put before the world to know, understand, and believe or not.

It’s as if God says:

Only then can one be counted as in the church, the body of Christ, a Christian...

Get more from George S. Juniper in the Substack app

Available for iOS and Android

Get the app

So, think of the far-reaching implications of a man with such influence as Mr. Huckabee, in a “front man” capacity (presumed, ordained, or otherwise) representing the Baptist denomination, supposedly representing Jesus Christ, and for all intents and purposes teaching a proselyte doctrine, effectively bringing souls who believe his teachings back under the bondage of the law.

That’s what conveys in the words he spoke:

“My Christian faith is built on the foundation of Judaism and without it, Christianity would not exist.”

And while in an ambassadorial role, effectively standing with the lost sheep of the house Israel, i.e. the unbelieving Jews still practicing the Jews’ religion, and standing against the Christian patriarchs of Israel, and beyond that, all Christians who understand the word of God rightly divided.

As always, discernment requires us to compare spiritual things with spiritual, the words of Mike Huckabee compared with the word of God:

1 Corinthians 2:12 & 13

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

---

In Galatians chapter 5, Paul writes of the correlation between the circumcision, who are debtors to do the whole law, the yoke of bondage, that Christ is become of no effect, and they are fallen from grace: which are the results of the continued observance of the Jews’ religion:

Galatians 5:1-7

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.

For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.

Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.

For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.

For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?

---

And finally, consider the circumstance as recorded in Acts chapter 15, when it was necessary for The apostles, elders, and brethren to write unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia in response to Jews subverting Gentile souls by continuing to teach circumcision and keeping the law as commandments from the apostles:

Acts 15:23-24

And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:

Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:

---

Subscribe now

A man of such prominence, in a position of government, of power and influence, proclaiming, declaring, preaching another gospel, a perversion…

“My Christian faith is built on the foundation of Judaism and without it, Christianity would not exist.”

If the “Jewish” apostles and Paul are both teaching the end of the Jews’ religion, the word of Mike Huckabee declaring a Christianity founded on Judaism is not the word of God.

I wonder what Paul would say to Mike Huckabee if he were to face him in our age?

Leave a comment

Thanks for reading Without the Camp.

The point and purpose of Without the Camp is not only to help believers and unbelievers alike to know and understand God based on his testimony contained in the KJV, but also to lead them to a decision point, the all-important matter of their salvation. I mean, of course it is, always has been.

After all, it’s one thing to acquire that knowledge and understanding, it’s a whole ‘nother thing to actually put your faith in the overarching point and purpose of the message, the “good news” conveyed in that knowledge and understanding.

It was never the intent of these studies to simply put them out there as just another source in a sea of choices, another “interpretation”, yet another understanding of the bible, comingled with all the other “alternatives”.

Rather, the intent of Without the Camp studies is to lead readers down a path laid out by scripture without interpretation, without preconceptions of God’s meaning, open-hearted, willing, listening, hearing.

You as your own judge and jury, hearing the case of God brought to you by God himself, considering his testimony, hearing the words and declarations presented as evidence of him, his Son, and the Holy Ghost, leading you to a decision as to the veracity of same.

Once heard, the decision you make is more about your judgment of the person of God, his faithfulness, his trustworthiness, the truth of him, more than it is about deciding whether the KJV is in truth his word as one of many examples of outward disunity among “Christian” denominations.

This decision point, as I’ve asserted again and again, is between you and God, not you and your pastor, preacher, priest, what have you.

If just one person is moved by the Spirit of God, the words on the pages of the KJV presented and considered throughout these studies, God’s spirit working in him, persuading him to the word of the truth of the gospel, praise be to God, he has come to Christ without the camp, amen.

Hebrew 13:12-13

Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.

Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.

---

Once known, once understood, God indeed expects a decision.

It’s as if he says in so many words:

“Now that you know and understand these things about me, what say you?”

“Are you in?”

“If so, it is my will that you teach others also.”

Share

As with any transaction, there is a point when negotiations are over; a point reached when terms and conditions are known, understood, and agreed upon, and are said to be finalized for record sake and “closed”.

Colossians chapter 1 reads like that to me. Paul lays out very specific terms and conditions for our salvation according to and through his gospel and no other.

Here is the entire chapter:

Read it as if you’re sitting at a closing table finalizing you’re salvation, with Paul as the “closer” representing the interests of both parties, you and God, paying strict attention to the terms and conditions you must agree with to secure eternal life.

Colossians 1:1-29

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother,

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,

For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;

Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;

Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

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:

Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled

In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:

Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

---

It’s one thing to merely read the Colossians chapter above, it’s a whole ‘nother thing to really let it resonate in your mind, to really comprehend the magnitude of what Paul declares on behalf of God, in the name of Jesus Christ with the Holy Ghost working in him to testify the word of the truth of the gospel, the gospel of the grace of God.

Get more from George S. Juniper in the Substack app

Available for iOS and Android

Get the app

Follow the thread, Paul speaks of a transaction in the soul, remembering as you do that there is only one truth, remembering also that you’re at the closing table of your salvation...

Colossians 1:5

…the word of the truth of the gospel;

---

Whose word? God Almighty...

Whose gospel? Paul’s...

Colossians 1:6

Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world;

---

What is the scope of Paul’s word of the truth? All the world...

Colossians 1:6

…since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

---

How is it known? Hearing the word of the truth and recognizing the grace of God in truth...

The word “knew” in Colossians 1:6 translates from the Greek word “epiginṓskō”, Strong’s entry G1921:

Strong’s G1921:

ἐπιγινώσκω epiginṓskō, ep-ig-in-oce’-ko; from G1909 and G1097; to know upon some mark, i.e. recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge:—(ac-, have, take)know(-ledge, well), perceive.

---

In other words, the terms and conditions for salvation sent from God to all the world, which Paul delivered as he was sent to do, requires each soul to know his gospel, to understand it, and acknowledge it; acquiesce, assent.

Colossians 1:9

… and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

---

What is Paul’s desire for believers? That they be filled with the knowledge of his will...

Whose will? God Almighty...

Colossians 1:10

…increasing in the knowledge of God;

---

To what end? Spiritual growth and maturity in the church, the body of Christ, in the knowledge of God...

Colossians 1:23

If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven;

---

What is the mechanism of salvation? Hearing the word of the truth of the gospel in our souls, knowing the authorship of its message, understanding that message, agreeing with that message, believing that message...

Who is the author? God Almighty...

Colossians 1:27

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

---

God has made known this mystery, Christ in us, ...spiritual, eternal.

Colossians 1:28

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; …

---

Whom did God send to deliver the mystery? The apostle Paul...

Share Without The Camp

All made known for what overarching purpose?

All these words spoken/written by Paul to the ends of the earth, testifying to the authorship, authenticity, and authority of his gospel, his one gospel, and the specific knowledge it contains.

Delivering it as he was sent to do, and in the process fulfilling the word of God and declaring our part of the transaction as “acknowledgement”.

Colossians 1:25

Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

---

The expectation that once heard, a person makes a choice, makes a decision, a decision predicated on the knowledge given from God by Paul of the preeminence of Paul’s message.

In other words, the details of Paul’s gospel are very specific, and to be understood as such. It’s not for hearers to be dismissive of his message as just another “interpretation” of scripture, or as the same gospel preached by the twelve “Jewish” apostles, or that one claiming to understand the dispensation of the grace of God is somehow an example of “hyper-dispensationalism” as some denominations have concluded.

Paul continues his train of thought in to the next chapter as he “closes” the soulful transaction of our salvation, asking and expecting our acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

Colossians 2:1-3

For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

---

Leave a comment

…to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God…

In Colossians chapter 2, verse 2 above, the word “acknowledgement” is the English translation of the Greek word “epígnōsis”, Strong’s entry G1922.

Strong’s G1922:

ἐπίγνωσις epígnōsis, ep-ig’-no-sis; from G1921; recognition, i.e. (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement:—(ac-)knowledge(-ing, - ment).

---

“Epígnōsis” also translates as “acknowledging” in Paul’s second epistle to Timothy and his epistle to Titus conveying the same expectation for hearers of his gospel to “close” the deal in recognition of and in full discernment of the word of the truth of the gospel.

2 Timothy 2:25

In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging [G1922] of the truth;

---

Titus 1:1-2

Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging [G1922] of the truth which is after godliness;

In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

---

When you stop and think about it, all of scripture points to the “closing” table of our salvation. What is put before all Gentiles are the terms and conditions for entry in to the kingdom of God, brought to the world through the shed blood of Jesus the Christ and through Paul’s apostleship to the Gentiles.

The offer, or I should say gift, has nothing to do with Judaism or the Law of Moses, and, in truth, many of the “Big Religion” organizations peddling some perversion of the gospel. Paul’s gospel hidden in God until God revealed it.

Once we choose faith according to Paul’s gospel, the Father translates believers into the kingdom of his dear Son...

Colossians 1:13 & 14

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:

---

God Almighty is the one doing the translating. It’s a spiritual operation of God, in that realm, changing our standing from dead to alive in God, in his Son, his Holy Spirit in us, in an instant.

No clergy required, no ceremony, no custom, no tradition...

Nothing but the simple process of hearing his word to the world delivered by Paul, knowing it, understanding it correctly, believing it, and in acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ, …and accepting God’s gift of salvation according to the gift of the grace of God.

Ephesians 3:5-11

Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

---

Are you in?

Leave a comment

Thanks for reading Without the Camp.

This is a bit of a rehash for readers who frequent Without the Camp studies.

There are times when reading scripture in the process of developing them, a word or phrase keeps popping up in the passages I intend to include in support of the subject I’ve chosen to study out.

Not claiming or suggesting some spiritual or supernatural influence causing me to “see” these things, just that it happens. And not surprising really since there is obviously a common thread, a common message conveyed in each of Paul’s epistles.

Nonetheless, over the course of developing the last three or so studies, the word “mystery” kept popping up in phrasing I’ve certainly read before, but as I jumped around from verse to verse, reading in no particular order, it became a sequence or pattern of sorts.

We’ve considered the word “mystery” several times in previous Without the Camp studies as it relates to the revelation of the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24) as the one and only gospel in force in our age, the only one with the power of God to save souls. The Gospel of Christ revealed to the apostle Paul who gave it to the uttermost parts of the earth, all nations. Over and over, again and again...

What was hid in God is a mystery no more and and has since been known for a millennium or two.

In response to the “pattern”, I searched for the Greek word “mystery” and “mysteries” occurring in the KJV using blueletterbible.org yielding these results:

“Mystery” occurs 22 times in 22 verses:

• 1 time in the gospel of Mark.

• 17 times in Paul’s epistles.

• 4 times in Revelation.

“Mysteries” occurs 5 times in 5 verses:

• 1 time each in the gospels of Matthew and Luke.

• 3 times in Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthians.

Both “mystery” and “mysteries” translate from the Greek word “mystḗrion”, Strong’s entry G3466.

Strong’s G3466:

μυστήριον mystḗrion, moos-tay’-ree-on; from a derivative of μύω mýō (to shut the mouth); a secret or “mystery” (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites):—mystery.

---

The three occurrences of the Greek word “mystḗrion” in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are their different accounts of the same circumstance when Jesus answers why he speaks to the lost sheep of the house of Israel in parables.

Here is Matthew’s testimony as one example and encourage readers to read Mark and Luke’s account as a check of my assertion.

Matthew 13:11

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

---

It’s simple, at that moment in biblical time, the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven was given to the twelve apostles to know, and was not given to them without, i.e. the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Share

What follows are all the verses and passages in which the Greek word “mystḗrion” translates as “mystery” excluding the occurrence in Mark chapter 4, verse 11 as discussed above and three of the four occurrences in Revelation.

The three passages excluded from Revelation speak prophetically of the dispensation of the fullness of times, the age after the dispensation of grace of the God, another time and circumstance, and another study.

Ephesians 1:10

That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

---

The remaining 18 occurrences of the word “mystery” listed below are in order as they appear in scripture for quick review and the focus it brings on that aspect of Paul’s ministry.

Please read before and after these verses and passages for yourself for fuller context and for your own edification.

Romans 11:25

For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

---

Romans 16:25

Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,

---

1 Corinthians 2:7

But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:

---

1 Corinthians 15:51

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

---

Ephesians 1:9-10

Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:

That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:

---

Ephesians 3:3-4

How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,

Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

---

Ephesians 3:9

And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

---

Ephesians 5:32

This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

---

Ephesians 6:19

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,

---

Colossians 1:26-27

Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

---

Colossians 2:2

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

---

Colossians 4:3

Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

---

2 Thessalonians 2:7

For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.

---

1 Timothy 3:9

Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

---

1 Timothy 3:16

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

---

Revelation 10:7

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

---

Share Without The Camp

The occurrences of “mystery” in Romans 11:25, 1 Corinthians 15:51, Ephesians 5:32, and 2 Thessalonians 2:7 are in context of circumstances other than the revelation of the mystery and not relevant to this consideration.

However, here’s a quick synopsis of each to encourage readers to study them further for your own edification:

In Romans 11:25, Paul addresses Israel, the Jews, telling them essentially, those who do not believe his gospel, then and now, are those who are blind to the truth of God as foretold. Notice the time marker associated with their blindness:

Romans 11:25

…until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in.

---

In 1 Corinthians 15:51, Paul is speaking of a time when believers will be resurrected from our fleshly bodies into our spiritual bodies.

In Ephesians 5:32, Paul’s use of the word “mystery” is in context of his instructions to husbands regarding their spiritual relationship with their wife, as the same as, the relationship between Christ and the church.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:7, Paul is speaking of a time when the “Wicked”, a reference to Satan/Anti-Christ, will be revealed.

Get more from George S. Juniper in the Substack app

Available for iOS and Android

Get the app

Those four verses aside, the 14 remaining occurrences of “mystery” all refer to the overarching premise of Paul’s apostleship.

Paul’s gospel was not known, hid in God from the beginning. But now, from that moment on, the Godhead chose him, sent him, gave the good news of the mystery of Christ to him to give to the world.

I leave it to the interested to study out these passages for fuller context as Paul certainly has a lot to say to prove or establish his gospel as God given and in every sense was unknown before it was made manifest through Paul’s apostleship and ministry.

Here are the phrases in which “mystery” occurs in each of the 14 verses and passages to bring an even sharper focus:

Romans 16:25

...the revelation of the mystery...

---

1 Corinthians 2:7

But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery,

---

Ephesians 1:9

...the mystery of his will...

---

Ephesians 3:3-4

...the mystery...

...the mystery of Christ...

---

Ephesians 3:9

...the fellowship of the mystery...

---

Ephesians 6:19

...the mystery of the gospel...

---

Colossians 1:26-27

...the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations…

...this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory...

---

Colossians 2:2

...the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ...

---

Colossians 4:3

...to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds...

---

1 Timothy 3:9

...the mystery of the faith...

---

1 Timothy 3:16

...the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

---

Revelation 10:7

...the mystery of God should be finished...

---

As you consider the various occurrences, whether the word itself or the phrases, it brings weight or significance to “the mystery” as a thing of time and circumstance. It’s not just a word to describe God as some kind of “secret” thing, like he’s mysterious in an intrigue kind of way, always just beyond our reach of understanding his intent, his will.

It’s a specific thing sourced to God Almighty, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost, like a secret message in a bottle, if you will, and the Gentiles are the beneficiary of the message it contains.

Such a simple notion: what was not known before this moment, is now made known for all.

You’d think that would strike most people like: “Hmm, isn’t that interesting”.

“Here’s a dude telling us he has a direct connection with the supreme being of the universe and wants everyone to hear the message he sends to mankind, Gentiles, …and Jews.”

“And before he, Paul, started telling us this stuff, he was going around wreaking havoc on the church comprised at that time of those of Israel who saw and believed Jesus was the Son of God during the entirety of his earthly ministry.”

“The mystery” is not only something new, something unknown, but was also something fulfilling prophecy of the Old Testament.

Something preeminent, something superseding, as it were, the things of the law, the things of Judaism. A gift of salvation to the ends of the earth, even justifying those who thought they were or are justified by the law, through faith in the blood of Jesus the Christ.

“The mystery” can further be understood as this all-encompassing notion embodying the eternal plan God accomplished as he promised Abraham he would do, God be faithful, praise him for his eternal wisdom.

“The mystery” then is all these things:

Romans 16:25

…revelation...

---

1 Corinthians 2:7

…the wisdom of God...

---

Ephesians 1:9

…his will...

---

Ephesians 3:4

…of Christ...

---

Ephesians 3:9

…fellowship...

---

Ephesians 6:19

…the gospel...

---

Colossians 1:26-27

…hid from ages and generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:...

among the Gentiles; …Christ in you, the hope of glory...

---

Colossians 2:2

…of God, and of the Father, and of Christ…

---

Colossians 4:3

…of Christ...

---

1 Timothy 3:9

…of the faith...

---

1 Timothy 3:16

…of godliness...

---

And lastly:

Revelation 10:7

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

---

Subscribe now

There is an end to the dispensation of the grace of God marked by the voice of the seventh angel.

Until then:

2 Corinthians 13:5

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

---

And...

2 Timothy 2:15

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

---

Doing so in knowledge and understanding of the mystery of God, the mystery of his will, knowing all that is in front of Christians and unbelievers alike in this sin cursed world...

2 Peter 3:10-14

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

---

Leave a comment

Thanks for reading Without the Camp.

Ephesians 1:15-23

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,

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

---

Ephesians 4:4

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

---

Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians in chapter 1, verses 17 through 19 is that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ give to them the spirit of wisdom and revelation.

Wisdom and revelation in what?

...in the knowledge of him:

For what purpose?

That with the mind’s eye, the Spirit within, the inner man, the word of God working in our new creature, they/we see what is the hope of his calling, Jesus Christ the one doing the calling.

Two linguistic ways of expressing the same idea:

Ephesians 1:18

…the hope of his calling...

---

Ephesians 4:4

...one hope of your calling...

---

We are called...

Share

Meanwhile, Satan also calls souls to his way, whether it be outright rejection of God or the false ways of false Christs.

I’ve mentioned several times that I’m a bit of a news junkie, pursuing and reading the day’s big stories from various “news” sources operating primarily in digital space. I aim for a middle of the road approach to the socioeconomic/geopolitical content I consume, a bit from the right, the left, and some from the “in-betweeners”. And of late, find myself less and less able to listen, much less hear the very fringes of society, left or right, who continue getting “platformed” by television programming, social media, and the like despite the sick and twisted lives they live.

One of the reasons I do it is to keep an eye on the course of this world, so to speak, to maintain some awareness of the “times and circumstances” of our age as a measure of sorts of the forewarnings of Jesus, Peter, and Paul about the last days.

Ephesians 2:2

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

---

Through years of “watching”, you get the sense there’s a figurative temperature, pressure, or tension building in and among “corruptible man” leading to ever-escalating conflict of one sort or the other. Small-scale conflicts among ideological individuals and ideological groups; large scale conflicts among nations, peoples of one ideology against peoples of an opposing ideology; where the ungodly, the unrighteous, change the truth of God into a lie.

Romans 1:18-25

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

---

I’m sure I’m not the only one who sees it. Nor is it something unusual necessarily. History has shown again and again how fallen man prefers to go at each other’s throat when given the chance; the victor always painting it somehow as noble and necessary, righteous even, in the name of whatever sovereign/ideological position they hold.

It’s bubbling, brewing, and it’s gonna come to a head...

Nothing new really, just pointing out that everything considered news worthy these days, indicates the course of this world is still on track and to a great extent, Christians are along for the ride. And I believe powerless to do anything to change course, nor meant to attempt to do so.

And I mean powerless in every sense, more and more disregarded, more and more maligned, marginalized, persecuted, oppressed, killed, all according to their warnings.

While at times there appears to be some hope of the course of this world turning “back to God”, according to Jesus, Peter, and Paul it’s only gonna get worse:

Matthew 24:1-8

And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.

And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

All these are the beginning of sorrows.

---

2 Timothy 3:1-7

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,

Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.

---

All around us, decaying society hems us in, crowds us in to ever decreasing influence, trying to insulate us from the so-called public square of our day, to quash his voice, his word. Us being believers who have found the strait gate, the narrow way, leading to life, waiting.

All the while, unbelievers continue manifesting the rot and degeneracy of the flesh, those with the spirit of this world alive and well in the children of disobedience.

They do abominable things in practically every aspect of society in the so-called “culture” of western nations with the collateral effect of pushing people to ever-deepening survival instincts of trusting no one, believing no one.

Surrounded by people in high places, “governed” by them, who seemingly have a complete loss or disregard of all principles of self-control, self-restraint, of moral integrity, honorable character, things like right and wrong, and doing the right thing when faced with an opportunity to benefit from doing wrong.

That ship sailed a long time ago, not too long after the founding fathers of the United States of America laid out their well designed plan based on the idea of a nation of free people governing themselves, predicated on the idea of those same people responsible to themselves and each other, holding each other to notions and standards of a man’s good and honest character before God Almighty.

In the face of all of that, the word of God, is truly the one source of a believers strength, the source of our hope, the source of our victory over the things of men, corruptible, cheaters, liars, sexual deviants, fornicators, dishonest, untrustworthy, without honor, without character, without morality, or jurisprudence.

Share Without The Camp

Rather than engaging in things on the earth, the things of corruption, conflict, and blood with our time and talents, Paul instructs us to seek and set our affection on things above.

Colossians 3:1-4

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.

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

---

The word “seek” in Colossians chapter 3, verse 1 translates from the Greek word “zētéō”, Strong’s concordance entry G2212:

Strong’s G2212:

ζητέω zētéō, dzay-teh’-o; of uncertain affinity; to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by Hebraism) to worship (God), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life):—be (go) about, desire, endeavour, enquire (for), require, (X will) seek (after, for, means). Compare G4441.

---

The word “affection” in Colossians chapter 3, verse 2 translates from the Greek word “phronéō”, Strong’s concordance entry G5426:

Strong’s G5426:

φρονέω phronéō, fron-eh’-o; from G5424; to exercise the mind, i.e. entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication, to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain direction); intensively, to interest oneself in (with concern or obedience):—set the affection on, (be) care(-ful), (be like-, + be of one, + be of the same, + let this) mind(-ed), regard, savour, think.

---

Almost as if to disregard completely the things happening all around us, looking forward to the return of Jesus Christ to fulfil all that remains to be completed according to scripture.

Comforted knowing, believing, and hoping for his return.

Hope is the foundational principle of our salvation, hope of his return to finish what he started after ascending to the right hand of God.

I say it that way because, as we’ve studied, Jesus has finished what he came to do with Israel at his cross, for in his last breath he declares: “It is finished”.

John 19:30

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

---

He finished what he came to do among his own, who received him not.

John 1:11

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

---

His earthly ministry in the flesh, a savior to Israel, offered, crucified, raised by God the third day, witnessed by the twelve, all as foretold by God. Fini …Close chapter.

Get more from George S. Juniper in the Substack app

Available for iOS and Android

Get the app

Thereby ushering in a new dispensation, a calling...

And to what are we called?

One hope...

What is hope?

Romans 5:1-6

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

---

Here’s Strong’s entry for the Greek word “elpís” translated as “hope” in each occurrence in Romans chapter 5, verses 2, 4, and 5.

Strong’s G1680

ἐλπίς elpís, el-pece’; from a primary ἔλπω élpō (to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence:—faith, hope.

---

The “hope” of the ungodly then, is that those who choose faith in the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24) brought to the world by Paul, are in a spiritual state of peace with God, patiently waiting and expecting Jesus Christ to return, and our salvation from death and from the course of this world.

Paul describes the components of our new creation, spiritual in nature, mindful, not carnal, with an understanding that sees and knows: what is the hope of his calling...

Enlightened...

Knowing...

Who called?

Jesus Christ.

To what did he call us?

The dispensation of the grace of God, according to the revelation of the mystery, the mystery of Christ, the gospel of the grace of God, the new testament in his blood, the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant; all which be of faith in all nations blessed with faithful Abraham.

Who did the calling?

You guessed it: Paul and his gospel.

And in that enlightened understanding in the knowledge of him, Paul further instructs and exhorts:

That we be built up in him...

Colossians 2:6-8

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:

Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

---

That we be Strengthened with might in the inner man:

Ephesians 3:14-19

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.

---

That we Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil...

Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

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 as we do so, in our enlightenment, we see the course of this world as what it is, with the prince of the power of the air, the spirit working in the children of disobedience, all around us, always in conflict, always in tension, ever increasing.

And yet we continue to hope for the one hope to which we are called.

Alive to God, dead to the world.

Colossians 3:3

For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

---

And in that knowledge, understanding, wisdom, and revelation, i.e. in that calling, what is the hope of his calling?

That when he returns, we will appear with him and each other, in glory.

Colossians 3:4

When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

---

Praise God.

Amen.

Leave a comment

Thanks for reading Without the Camp.