The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life - HOW LONG WILL THE TEST CONTINUE?

 In addition, God has used this time to select and prepare from among mankind "vessels of mercy." These ae the ones who make up the righteous government over those who will live forever on earth in the new system. What blessings this heavenly kingdom means for mankind! During the time that God has been preparing "the vessels of mercy," he has shown much long-suffering. Why? The Bible clearly answers: "In order that he might make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy." (Romans 9:22-24) To God's heavenly kingdom will go the glory of vindicating God's name and destroying the wicked, the "vessels of wrath." Also, by his allowing wickedness to continue for a time, facets of God's personality are manifested that would not ordinarily be seen: his mercy and long-suffering. These enrich our appreciation of the Creator and our own personalities, as we imitate him. - EPHESIANS 5:1. 

There has also been another real benefit in God's permitting wickedness as long as he has. If at any time in the future anyone should call into question God's way of doing things, it would not be necessary again for him to grant that one time to try out some other way. The record of six thousand years of failure by Satan, his demons, and men who have tried to run affairs independent of God has supplied sufficient answer. No one can rightly claim: 'They did not get a chance,' or say, if only they had more time.' The permitted time has enough to prove that the way of the rebellion against the Creator has been absolutely disastrous! So God will be fully justified in swiftly crushing any rebel that threatens the future peace of the universe. - PSALM145:20 [144:20, Dy]. 

Next time: The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life - HOW LONG WITH THE TEST CONTINUE - Conclusion

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