Come join ARCS fellowship group!

As the disciples of Jesus found out, new understandings of scripture sometimes necessitate forming a new company of believers where members can fellowship together without having to constantly defend themselves against traditionalists who aren't interested in studying the prophecies and scriptures that are opening up.  Not that we hold anything against them, but simply that we need that freedom from the restrictions of entrenched biases. 

I’m currently in the process of developing a faith community group called ARCS, Advent Readiness Community of the Sabbaths. The name is reminiscent of the study of God’s signature found in the Golden Spiral and of his covenant rainbow promise. The group will focus on the biblical calendar for its historical and prophetic significance as a framework for agape faith culture, while seeking to rekindle the fervent spirit that was seen among the early apostles. See www.arcslife.org for details and www.facebook.com/groups/arcslife to join. 

ARCS is currently in development. The group’s aim is to be a community of fellowship for those preparing for Christ’s return, as we see the signs Jesus predicted in Matthew 24 fulfilling all around us. Our focus is on nurturing personal relationships with Christ, our Savior, through prayer and careful Bible study. We seek sanctification of mind and heart by beholding Christ and being changed into his image.

In the light of history and prophecies that foretell of religious corruption in the last days, we seek to return to the simple, fervent faith of the early apostles, as described in the book of Acts. As part of that, we embrace the weekly Sabbath established by God at Creation, on the seventh day, and accept the biblical calendar in place of worldly holidays.

The Bible’s ancient festivals, originally called “moed” in Genesis 1:14 and “Sabbaths” throughout the Bible, hold ongoing value and blessing. Rich in insights from sacred history and the blessing of God’s presence, these days are perfect for promoting faith culture and strong bonds of love among Christian brethren.

This group differs from many others that keep biblical feast days in how we don't accept the ceremonial laws of Moses as still binding. While certain aspects of the Mosaic laws may remain relevant for scientific or hygienic reasons, Colossians 2:14 makes it clear the ceremonial laws were nailed to the cross. This is confirmed through the word match of “handwriting… against us” with Deuteronomy 31:26, referring to the handwritten laws of Moses that were placed by the Ark of the Covenant as a witness against the people.
 

The same word match confirms the eternal significance of the commandments written on stone by God’s finger, since they weren't nailed to the cross. But the moed didn't begin or end with the handwritten laws of Moses either. Biblical evidence indicates they were established at creation, and that early believers continued to keep them after Christ's death. As Christians, they would have come together to rejoice and celebrate the days with fellowship meals. This is why Paul says to let no man judge how you celebrate them (Colossians 2:16), since the mosaic requirements for their observance were nailed to the cross.
 

During a time when pagan holidays often intersect with worldly pleasure seeking, God is calling his people to return to primitive godliness. Keeping biblical holidays is a part of the lifestyle of separating from the world in preparation for Christ’s soon return. It provides an amazing opportunity to draw together in fellowship and brotherly love, as nothing else can.
 

Nobody has as many reasons to smile as Christians do. The hope of Christ’s soon return is a source of ongoing encouragement. Nothing can put a spring in your step and a twinkle in your eye like having Jesus as your Friend. His patient and humorous influence draws close to all those who welcome him into their lives. Come join us so we can share these blessings together as we wait for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in latter rain power...