Stream or download Bright and shining lights in the Bible #10
“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. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him,” Hebrews 11:5-6.
1. Enoch is a most unusual man. He was saved in the way all must be saved but he was the first to enter heaven GLORIFIED! He was the first believer to arrive in heaven, body and soul!
He was translated, carried over from earth to heaven ALIVE! Word appears in Acts 7:16 as ‘carried over’, referring to burial of Jacob and 11 of his sons. Enoch was miraculously changed in his body from a mortal to an immortal state out of extraordinary grace and favour shown to him and then, many ages after this, to Elijah also.
2. His departure likely resulted in a search for him!
“ . . and was not found.” This phrase suggests a search was made for him. How puzzled his neigbours were.
The world has no understanding of how or where the Christian goes when they leave this world! There was a ‘search’ for Elijah also. 2 Kings 2:16-18.
3. This blessing was granted because of his faith. “By faith Enoch was translated.” Hs faith pleased God. “Before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” True faith is always accompanied by a life of holiness that is pleasing to God. Notice that it is emphasised that: “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” How important it is to understand this! Those that believe God are termed ‘friends’. “Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God,” James 2:23.