The word
remnant (as described in Revelation 12:17;
post #11 above) is key to understanding the identity of "the true church". The remnant is
not a part of a larger cloth, but separate from it. The remnant keeps the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus. Thus, it is
not a denomination, but
people who hold to the truths found in scripture and rest on its solid foundation.
The concept of a "true church" as a denomination that all others should recognize as the "source" and the only means of salvation,
is not scriptural. It is a worldly view, not a heavenly one.
Jesus said something in Matthew 7 that should give pause.
Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate:
for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate,
and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
If the way is narrow, how can a world-wide denomination be called the true church? It doesn't match the description of a remnant whatsoever. Therefore, the only conclusion that can be made is that any world church professing to be the true church
is not. Any broad way
is not the way to life.
In these end times, few are keeping the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus.