Principles and Exceptions

Moses, Satan, And Jude

Q. I have a question about Jude’s comments on Satan arguing about the burial place of the body of Moses with an angel and the fact that Moses might be one of the witnesses in Revelation.

If God buried Moses and kept the burial place a secret – the thought occurred to me the other day that it was so the Israelites wouldn’t “worship” the burial site and make an idol of it – but why would Satan be so concerned? Since it is appointed once for man to die, do you think God knowing His plans for Moses during the tribulation would take Moses to heaven like He did Enoch?

I enjoy the Truth and insight the Lord gives you in your studies and writings. May God continue to bless your obedience to His Truth. Jesus is the Truth, and I am so grateful He has made me into a lover of Truth.

A. You’re referring to Jude 1:9. I remain convinced that Moses and Elijah are the two witnesses of Rev. 11:3. As far as the body of Moses is concerned, all we know is that God buried it in Moab (Deut. 34:6) and no one knows where. There’s no reason to believe that he was actually taken live into heaven like Enoch was.

The passage from Hebrews 9:27 about dying only once is a general principle, but there have been several exceptions (such as Lazarus) so bringing Moses back to life would pose no problem for God.


Do I Have To Share The Gospel To Be Saved?

Q. I have a nagging feeling all the time about my salvation.  I read that salvation is from faith in Jesus Christ alone not works.  But I get conflicting answers when I read things people say on different Bible sites.  For example, some say when you’re saved you should spread the gospel to everyone you meet.  I sometimes talk to people about what I believe but not everyone I meet.  I am afraid people will think I am weird and won’t like me.  Is that normal to a believer? And if I don’t share the gospel am I still saved?

A. Having the key to eternal life is like having a cure for cancer.  It makes sense to share it with everyone who needs it.  But although the Lord commanded us to do this (Matt. 28:19-20), He didn’t make our salvation contingent upon it. In John 6:28-29 when the people asked Him what work God requires of us, Jesus said, “The work of God is this, to believe in the one He has sent.”

Website: www.gracethrufaith.com