Arcana Coelestia #894
894. 'At the beginning, on the first of the month' means a starting point. This is now clear from what has been said above. Everything that this statement embodies is an arcanum so deep that it cannot be described, except for just the point that no definite period of time ever exists when anyone is regenerate enough to be able to say, 'Now I am perfect'. In fact an unlimited number of states of evil and falsity exist with everyone, not only simple states but also varied and complex ones which, as has been stated, have to be disposed of in such a way that they do not recur. In some states a person can be called fairly perfect, but in countless others he cannot. People who have been regenerated during their lifetime, and in whose lives faith in the Lord and charity towards the neighbour have been present, are in the next life being perfected all the time.
#160 Another Breach: The Bible Seems Crude, Archaic, Irrational and Unscientific
By Jonathan S. Rose
Title: Another Breach: The Bible Seems Crude and Archaic, Irrational and Unscientific
Topic: Second Coming
Summary: We look at how Scripture is viewed from a "scientific" standpoint, and ponder the future of religion and science.
Use the reference links below to follow along in the Bible as you watch.
References:
Exodus 4:24-26
Matthew 11:7-9
Esther 8:11
Genesis 1:26
Matthew 27:3-6
Acts of the Apostles 1:16
Isaiah 19:23-25
Ezekiel 29:1-ff