The Enoch Enigma 2.0

By Clifton Angel       We closed the first portion of this study with reference to this passage: For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10). Enoch’s unique and mysterious translation to Heaven necessitates a consideration of our own “change” at the 4:13–17). Such considerations of our end demands contemplations of our walk now. And a great example for our earthly walk is none other than the same Enoch. Enoch walked with God (Genes 5:24).     The Hebrews writer recorded of Enoch in this fashion: ...Before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God (Hebrews 11:5). Therefore, to walk with God is to please God and to please God is to walk with God. In a world of self-gratification, Enoch did not seek to please himself (cf. Philippians 3:18–19; Titus 1:7; 2 Peter 2:10). In a world of men pleasers, Enoch did not seek to please men (cf. Galatians 1:10; Ephesians 6:6; Colossians 3:22). How did Enoch know how to please God? 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 (Heb 11:5).     Enoch operated by faith. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). Therefore, with reference to Enoch’s pleasing of God by faith, the Hebrews writer made application: 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 11:6). Enoch knew how to please God because God revealed it to Him, and he listened. Today, we have all the revelation from God that we need to follow Him and please Him, “by faith.” Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3; cf. 2 Peter 1:3; John 16:13; Hebrews 2:3).

- Clifton Angel preaches for the Coldwater Church of Christ in Coldwater, MS. He may be contacted through that congregation's website: http://www.coldwatercofc.com/