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Commentary on "In the Loom of Heaven"
Day 1: Sabbath Afternoon, March 26, 2011 - Introduction
Overview
The lesson title for this week makes use of the metaphor of a “spotless robe of righteousness” which Jesus has “woven in the loom of heaven” and clothes his “believing children” who are saved in the kingdom of God.
Observations
In biblical theology there are numerous concepts which are summarized with words or phrases not found in the bible. However, to be a valid expression of God’s truth such a metaphor, word or phrase must be consistent with the teachings found in all of scripture. One well known example is the word ‘Trinity’ which is used to describe the relationship of God the Father, Jesus the Son of God and the Holy Spirit as a triune single God.
Since the expression ‘woven in the loom of heaven’ is not found in the bible and seems to be unique with Adventist teachings, there are a number of questions that naturally come to mind:
1. What is the intended meaning of this metaphor?
The lesson phrase; “Christ….has brought in everlasting righteousness, so that the believer is spotless before God” makes this sound like orthodox Christian teaching. A survey of the writings of Ellen White produces a series of quotes similar to the one used in this lesson. One quote, found in Educator, Chapter 28 is of interest because Rev.19:8 is used as a supporting reference.
Let us be glad, rejoice, and give Him glory, because the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has prepared herself. She was given fine linen to wear, bright and pure. For the fine linen represents the righteous acts of the saints. (Rev 19:7-8 HCSB)
Several problems surface here. First, orthodox biblical teaching is that we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit and covered by the righteousness of Jesus Christ the moment we repent of our sins, John 16:5-15. Whereas, SDA teaching is that a person cannot know they are even in the kingdom of God and therefore covered by the righteousness of Jesus Christ until the results of the ‘Investigative Judgment’ are in. Furthermore, this reference refers to this gown as representing the righteous acts of the saints, not the covering of the righteousness of Jesus Christ that made those acts possible.
2. What scripture, if any, is used to support the intended use of this metaphor?
The only biblical reference this writer could find in SDA source literature is Rev. 19:8, which as we have just shown, is taken way out of context.
3. Did any of the key elements of the gospel message and righteousness provided by Jesus Christ occur in heaven?
The gospel message of Jesus Christ and the covering of righteousness he provided for those who join his kingdom was performed at Calvary here on earth and was completed before his return to heaven, 1 Cor. 15:1-8, Romans 5:6-11, Gal. 1:1-10.
When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” Then bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. (John 19:30 HCSB)
Summary
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