INTRODUCTION
The supernatural revelation of God is a significant part of the New Testament experience.[1] The Anchor Bible explains,
“Thus there is here the kind of raw theological material out of which the church developed trinitarian doctrine: gifts are granted by the Spirit, service is performed under the tutelage of Jesus Christ, and God himself 'energizes' the entire process.”[2]
The early disciples had encountered Jesus in that supernatural flare He demonstrated as a prophet. And He had been identified as a prophet on numerous occasions (Matthew 21:11, 21:46; John 9:17). Individuals debated whether He had been Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the others (Matthew 16:14). So that element of Jesus life was prevalent. The testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy (Revelation 19:10). And the character of prophecy in the New Testament takes on that character of Jesus, that supernatural charisma that exhibited the supernatural intervention of God in the life of people He encountered, in a dynamic way, demonstrating the supernatural intervention, exhortation, exultation, and at times correction of God (I Corinthians 14:3, Acts 8:18-24, 13:6-12). The scope of this paper includes a review of various passages relating to prophecy in the New Testament, it takes a look at the etymology of the terms for prophecy, and it will look at the characteristics of true prophecy. This paper is an analysis of authentic genuine divine Biblical New Testament prophecy. What is the nature of prophecy in the New Testament?
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
According to Kittel’s in-depth Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, “What distinguishes prophecy in Israel is its tremendous ability to live on in ever new forms.”[3] Observations of the initial incidents of prophecy that occur in the New Testament are set in the backdrop of events transpiring in Jewish history (Acts 7:1-53).[4] There were those expecting the entrance of the Messiah, and there were Pharisees, Jewish elite, who were adamant that any appearing claiming to be that One should be excommunicated and punished (John 9:22). It did not sit well with their Old Testament doctrine to reject the Deliverer they were seeking in the Messiah, but He was rejected.[5] He, according to prophecy, was born of a virgin, crucified, had risen, and took His seat on the right hand of God. “Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men” (Ephesians 4:8). One of those gifts is prophecy, divine utterance that might incorporate a number of other gifts intrinsically that were instrumental in establishing New Testament churches formed across the continents of Asia and Africa, encompassing the Roman Empire, and that eventually crossed its boundary to be carried to this continent.[6]
Beginning at Judea and Samaria, Jesus set forth the New Testament church as a catalyst spreading the word of God, not only in the logos delivery He exhibited in the parables, but also in the revelatory power of rhema words. Rhema was experienced, and not merely listened to (Acts 1:8).
TEXTUAL ANALYSIS
Jesus told the Pharisees, “For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my (rhema) words?” (John 5:46-47).[7] The Greek term in John 5:47 is rhema.[8] It was rhema that Jesus spoke to Peter when He said, “Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice” (Matthew 26:75).[9] It was rhema when the Roman governor and others accused Jesus, who explained, “Thou sayest” (Matthew 27:11, 14).[10] Then not responding more to their rhema words unwittingly spoken against Him, He angered them (Matthew 27:18, 23).[11] But Jesus struck fear. They were fearful of loosing their elite place, so Caiaphas agreeing along with the others, had unwittingly by the Holy Ghost identified Jesus as the One who would die for all (John 11:48-53). He “prophesied.” The Greek term, propheteuo,[12] spoken in the text, signifies the idea of foretelling future events pertaining to the kingdom of God (John 11:51).[13] Revelation 1:1 gives the definition of prophecy in the New Testament, “to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass.” The book of Revelation according to these words is prophecy. The term propheteia,[14] is used in verse 1:3, signifying,
“divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events.”[15]
The prophecy in the New Testament occurs in a manner dramatically distinct from that which many might identify as prophecy.]16] That which is identified as prophecy, when contrasted with that occurring in scripture, often is not. While that scorned, but that is according to the Biblical pattern, would be more accurately identified as prophecy. Cited in Joel, the passage considered in substantiation for the prevalence of prophetic utterance that is to occur in the latter days, might more accurately be understood to identify the prophecy indicated by that character exhibited by Caiaphas, which had in fact in that manner been completely unbeknownst to the speaker, for he identified Jesus as the Christ, and resented in actuality the entire idea. And that character of prophecy, or rhema, identified by the terms in the passages, which were also exhibited by the other accusers that had spoken accusations over Jesus life, likewise indicated their ignorance (Matthew 27:14, John 11:51). Like the occasion in the Old Testament in which God had opened the mouth of a donkey (Numbers 22:28-30), God might indeed apply the principle to any person where He can use an enemy to declare a rhema, and prophesy. That manner of prophecy might carry more power and prophetic significance than that word spoken by a friend, in that the word spoken, as in the case of Caiaphas, had been without deliberation, and had been in fact in spite of the interest of the speaker, a word of the Lord, signifying Jesus as Christ.
The word of the enemy ranting can be a word concealed from their understanding, and not unlike the principle in true prophecy wherein personal sentiments must be bypassed, the more authentic word might typify the prevalent type referred to in the apocalyptic verse of Joel,
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions” (emphasis mine, 2:28).
Are the utterances referred to in the passage perhaps that Spirit that might be prevalent today in which the rhema word of confirmation is unbeknownst in character like that word relayed by Caiaphas? How else might God pour out His Spirit on “all flesh” in a very wicked generation? The characteristics of prophecy relayed in Joel 2:28 might more accurately be things spoken concealed from a speaker.
So that attempting to mimic that real indication of revival might be likened to Abraham and Sarah as they birthed Ishmael. When in reality authentic prophecy fulfilled in bold clarity, might rather be the increasing manner of the Spirit to speak through vessels aside from themselves, who do not even realize what they are doing. So, what might be more readily called prophecy may not be prophecy at all, and the hidden kind might be more on target and scriptural. Rhema can be hidden. Like the occasion following the feeding of the five thousand, the disciples marveling at Jesus who walked on water missed the miracle of the loaves in that their hearts were hardened (Mark 6:52). Repeating Jesus’ words, “For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my (rhema) words?” (John 5:46-47).
CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS
In the Old Testament inspired utterances by prophets provided precedence for the context seen in the New Testament.[17] They are a framework for defining prophecy (Luke 16:16, Acts 3:24-25). Though there are distinctions,[18] all divine utterances, both in the Old Testament and in the New, historically are realized, understood and comprehended as information God communicates, to reveal—in time, over time, in part, in whole, in dreams, in visions, in visitations—specific words, words to just one, words to groups, words to the Earth, words to the whole (Romans 16:25-26).[19] Old Testament and New Testament prophecy is supernatural revelation of information from God about the future, and what He has planned in essence, in that it pertains to the establishment of His kingdom. Jesus said of His true disciples,
“For I have given unto them the (rhema) words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me (John 17:8).
A TIME-LINE
A survey of the prophetic words given in the New Testament falls across a time-line of supernatural events. The words include an angel appearing to Joseph and directing him to take Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:20), wise men being warned of God in a dream not to return to Herod (Matthew 2:12), Joseph being warned to take the child, Jesus, and go to Egypt (Matthew 2:13), and later directed to return (Matthew 2:19-23), God speaking from heaven at Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16-17), and speaking at His transfiguration (Matthew 17:5), words of the angel spoken at the tomb regarding His resurrection (Matthew 28:7), and in a form the word conveyed by the woman anointing His feet with her hair before the burial (Mark 14:8). There are the incidents of an angel that came to Zacharias before the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:5-17), the angel that came to Mary before Jesus’ birth (Luke 1:28-37), and the cases of prophecy found in the Acts of the Apostles (11:28, 21:10-11). There also were judgments spoken in prophecy, the case of an angel speaking to Zacharias in Luke 1:20, others occurred in Acts 5:1-11, 8:18-24, 9:4-8, and 13:6-12. Cases where words are spoken by angels might not be identified as prophecy, but they are very prophetic in content (surely if an angel appeared to any today they would deliver that as just such), and like the case of Cornelius (Acts 10) the manner of communication of a word may differ, yet all manners are in keeping with the prophetic word of the prophet Joel, in containing dreams, visions, and prophecy (Joel 2:28). Like in the Old Testament, the response of the hearer in rhema understanding epitomizes the fiber of genuine engrafted prophetic words clutched in faith (Hebrews 11).
RHEMA
Things revealed supernaturally, rhema, are the backdrop of the New Testament.[20] Though it can be argued that not all have the gift of prophecy,[21] it is understood that rhema, that means by which God gives understanding, is crucial in understanding God. Paul said, “But what saith it? The word (rhema) is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word (rhema) of faith, which we preach” (Romans 10:8). Ephesians explains, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the (rhema) word” (5:25-26). The rhema word of God revealing things supernaturally by the Holy Ghost defines prophecy—God bringing each rhema word to pass, revealing secret things. No rhema word He gives is impossible the angel told Mary (the more proper rendering of the text being, "For with God no rhema shall be impossible," Luke 1:37). She believed. Yet Zacharias was struck dumb, when he had not (Luke 1:20). It is interesting to note they both had questioned (1:34, 1:18).
Typically rules of prophecy require that words agree with scripture, yet, like the case of Mary there may be a technicality that appears to be violated. Mary had been pregnant and had not been married (Matthew 1:18-23), yet God circumnavigated the law. Peter violated scripture as well in preaching to Gentiles, had been directed by God to do so by a vision, had been challenged, leading to much controversy, but the word had been a catalyst to bring the gospel to those outside Judaism (Acts 10:1-48, 11:1-18).
RELEVANCE
Prophetic understanding spoken, directly, to an individual in prophecy, as has been Biblically given to men and women in scripture, is integral throughout the Old and New Testaments as a significant part of their growth and development in faith. God does not expect us to live without that personal kind of revelation. The gift of prophecy that is genuine, revealing information from God, has relevance that is authentic and vital.
I Corinthians 14:24-25 explains,
“But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: and thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.”
Genuine prophecy reveals secret things, showing that God knows all.
Prophecy is supernatural in caliber, and that caliber is transforming and enlightening as it reveals hidden things like those characterized in passages found in Acts, the gospels and the epistles. Each encounter in the New Testament involving prophecy had been a case revealing information, things God knew that would make a difference in the lives of individual people. Prophecy is personal.
APPLICATION
Responses from God personally are confirming in prophecy, as the rhema word had been to Cornelius (Acts 10:22). Though he received it in secret, God confirmed it through Peter, and in the midst of controversy established doctrine that brought the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 10:1-48, 11:1-18). Strong controversy can surround authentic words. And rhema is received rather than only heard in that context.
Jesus made clear that it is possible to hear and not hear, and to see and not see (Matthew 13:13). It is possible, like Caiaphas, to declare the word of the Lord and to not hear it (John 11:48-53). There are those who in jealousy attempt to destroy those that God uses to bring forth His word. Yet in actuality it is a right heart, as Jesus explained, that makes able any who is able to hear a rhema. Where there is evil-heartedness there is blindness.
CONCLUSION
Like the prophetic words recorded in the Old Testament, God admonishes that all words (rhema) be discerned (Matthew 18:16, II Corinthians 13:1, Hebrews 5:14). While words of exhortation admonishing believers to be encouraged are recognizable, that word of God given in the character of the New Testament might be unperceived and unseen, rejected and questioned, and authentic and vital.
The church can be desirous for license in permissiveness and miss the power of the transforming word of the Lord that will break the yoke of the sin and admonish the believer to greater freedom and power. The true heart of prophecy is the release of greater levels of liberty in Christ and the manifestation of the power of sons of the Most High God. The craving for comfort might in actuality oppose the word of the Lord, while the word of accurate prophecy might come in judgment, conversion, authenticity, and power, concealed from the undiscerning, and revealed in authority by a grasp of faith.
[1] W.N. Albright and D. N. Freedman, eds., Romans, The Anchor Bible (Garden City, NY:
Doubleday, 1993).
[2] __________, I Corinthians, A New Translation, The Anchor Bible (Garden City, NY:
Doubleday, 1976), 281.
[3] Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Vol. VI (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1968), 828.
[4] W.N. Albright and D. N. Freedman, eds., The Gospel of John, The Anchor Bible (Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1970), 820; Maria Leonard, “Pentecost in Jerusalem,” America 192, no. 18 (May 23, 2005): 18.
[5] Ibid.
[6] John Dart, “Charismatic and mainline,” The Christian Century 123, no. 5 (7 March 2006): 22.
[7] Spiros Zodhiates, The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible (Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1991), 1755.
[8] The Bible Collection Software, Strong’s numbering, lexicon (ValueSoft, 2006).
[9] Ibid.
[10] Ibid.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Vol. VI (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1968), 853.
[14] The Bible Collection Software, Strong’s numbering, lexicon (ValueSoft, 2006).
[15] Ibid.
[16] Meredith B. McGuire, “The Social Context of Prophecy: “Word-gifts” of the Spirit Among Catholic Pentecostals,” Review of Religious Research 18, no. 2 (Winter 1977): 143.
[17] W.N. Albright and D. N. Freedman, eds., Acts of the Apostles, The Anchor Bible (Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1998), 481.
[18] Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Vol. VI (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1968), 828.
[19] Matthias Wenk, “The Creative Power of the Prophetic Dialogue,” PNEUMA: The Journal of the Society for Pentecostal Studies 26, no. 1 (Spring 2004): 118.
[20] Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, Vol. IV (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1968), 69.
[21] Arthur J. Rowe, “I Corinthians 12-14: The use of a text for Christian worship,” Evangelical Quarterly 77, no. 2 (April 2005): 122.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
"It's Over!"
INTRODUCTION
“IT’S OVER!” (John 19:30)[1] Loud, the words echoed—over sound like thunder (Matthew 27:54).[2] Across the Judean hillsides trickles of white lightning might have etched—but no storm. Clouds rolled, enfolding in unusual ways indicating this was not an ordinary dark sky—it was not night. It was noon.[3] “IT’S OVER!” The words echoed—reverberated.
Loudly He cried (Matthew 27:50, Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46, John 19:30).[4] And the echo of His word reverberated against the sky, eliciting gasps from unbelieving (Luke 23:48).[5] “IT’S OVER!” “IT IS FINISHED!” He was gone.
Earth quaked (Matthew 27:51), shaking vision of the eastern sky, blurring sight—and causing images to tumble. Skies darkened (Matthew 27:45, Mark 15:33, Luke 23:44-45), giving an eerie feeling of war, conflict. “IT’S OVER!” reverberated.
It was a door. A door He entered legally—passing through to be our propitiation (Romans 3:25). It had been a fatal miscalculation for a fallen angel, Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12). Meeting “Life” in death backfired. It was “over.” I believe He said, “….Devil.” “It’s over ….Devil."
Death was a door—a doorway—an entrance (Hebrews 2:9, Acts 2:24). It was an entrance leading to keys—keys of hell and the grave (Revelation 1:18). He was taking off humanity, taking action in divinity. There was perhaps a unique perspective for the thief (Luke 23:40)—passing with the Savior into paradise (Luke 23:43).
PARADISE
Paradise was known in Hebrew theology as a compartment of Sheol—that place where Old Testament saints waited and a “place from which the righteous are saved” (Psalm 49:15, 86:13; Proverbs 15:24).[6] Sheol had no hold on the righteous because God would ransom them from its power (Hosea 13:14; I Corinthians 15:55).[7] God does not abandon the righteous in Sheol (Psalm 16:10).[8] Sheol had also been known as that place where the wicked would go upon death (Job 21:13, 24:19; Psalm 9:17, 31:17, 49:14).[9] There were varied meanings in the Old Testament.
But Jesus’ propitiation made a way for those under the New Covenant to enter heaven (Romans 3:25), and His propitiation had been the promised redemption that would make the way out of Sheol for those saints under the Old Covenant (Hebrews 12:1; Romans 11:26-27).
Paradise as the abode of the righteous was viewed as a separate section of Hades, a term equivalent to Sheol (Psalm 16:10, Acts 2:27, 31).[10] The remaining references to paradise in the New Testament (II Corinthians 12:4; Revelation 2:7) being references to heaven make it appear that paradise was moved there—concurring with I Peter 3:18-19.[11]
In the moments on the cross two covenants were bridged, and the moments in transition were conveyed perhaps by Jesus words, “To day shalt thou be with me in paradise,” as he said to the thief (Luke 23:43). Paradise—a part of Sheol—is where Jesus bound the strongman in finality, and there spoiled his goods (Matthew 12:29; Mark 3:27; Colossians 2:15).
It is disputed, yet I believe Jesus entered the area of Sheol where it is held by some that Old Testament saints were awaiting the redemption Christ would offer.[12] There are various references to the after-life in scripture, using various terms. Abraham’s bosom had been a place of rest. The rich man had seen it, looking across at Lazarus (Luke 16:23). And paradise had been another place referenced on occasion in passages as recorded regarding the scene on the cross (Luke 23:43).
I believe Jesus entered Sheol, as might be indicated by I Peter, “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: by which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison; which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah” (I Peter 3:18-20).
Jesus, binding the strongman, spoiling his goods (Matthew 12:29, Mark 3:27)—is signified in the power seen in the resurrection of the saints, giving proof of these things. Surely they did not arise from a place already in heaven, for Jesus, the first fruits of the resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20), had not yet ascended (John 20:17). They surely arose from the place from which Jesus led them away. He ascended on high, led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men (Ephesians 4:8)—the Holy Ghost, as in the Earth today, is still in the process of redeeming men supernaturally.
Jesus, passed through death as a man (Hebrews 2:9), and now had keys—of hell, death, and the grave (Revelation 1:18).
And though not yet ascended (John 20:17), Jesus demonstrated His power—for the resurrection had been evidenced in the streets of Jerusalem, as the Old Testament saints whose graves had been opened (Matthew 27:51), demonstrated His glory, walking on the streets of the Holy city in glorified resurrected bodies on their way to streets of gold (Matthew 27:52-53)—along with Christ, Who is the first fruits of the resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20; James 5:7; Revelation 14:4).
It marked the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of the New.
Ascending, Jesus led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men (Ephesians 4:8). Ransom paid, provision made—it was “Over.”
“FINISHED!”
One rendition of the term teleo—“finished”—signifies paying tribute.[13] The Greek word means “to bring to a close, to finish, to end…passed, finished…to perform, execute, complete, fulfill, (so that the thing done corresponds to what has been said, the order, command, etc.)…with special reference to the subject matter, to carry out the contents of a command…with reference also to the form, to do just as commanded, and generally involving the notion of time, to perform the last act which completes a process, to accomplish, fulfill…to pay, of tribute.” “It is finished or paid” is expressed in John 19:30.[14]
The price had been paid and saints walking the streets of Jerusalem exhibited proof that the completion of the New Testament covenant was sealed (Ephesians 1:13).
To a repentant thief He whispered, “…Over…”
To lambs and sheep He echoed, “....Over…”
To kings and priests gloried, “….Over….”
In the power of His incarnation, “….Over….”
In sovereign determination, “….Over….”
In the power of resurrection, “….Over…”
And a thief had a ring-side seat.
I believe Jesus took the Devil by the scruff of the neck and said, “Over.”
He turned over tables with a demonstrative flare (Matthew 21:12). He stirred the ire of Pharisees with adept candor (Matthew 12:10). He unabashedly admitted He knew everything (John 2:24-25). And in the face of confrontation He surely would never have backed down (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).
The One that walked in the midst of the coals of the burning fiery furnace to rescue three Hebrew men would certainly never have avoided a walk into another fiery furnace if necessary to rescue millions (Daniel 3:24-29). He was unthreatened by the flames. The One that unabashedly confronted a Babylonian king would certainly confront a literal Devil. The resurrected Lord of Glory had been the Devil’s worst nightmare.
So it was “over.” Meeting “Life” in death had backfired.
Acts tells the repercussions—the sick healed, the lame walk, the dead rise, the truth proclaimed, the gospel preached, and the blind see (Acts 15:12)—in Christ’s name.
How many on a cross shout? One. Jesus Christ. And, “IT’S OVER.”
The centurion marveled (Mark 15:39). And, “IT’S OVER!”
The ground trembled. And, “IT’S OVER!"
Sky darkened. And, “IT’S OVER!”
The crowd shouted, “GONE!” God shouted, “MY SON!”
The Messiah had come.
And “IT’S OVER.”
[1] The Bible Collection (ValueSoft.com, 2006), Strong’s Concordance. Teleo; Word origin: Greek. 1. to bring to a close, to finish, to end. a. passed, finished. 2. to perform, execute, complete, fulfill, (so that the thing done corresponds to what has been said, the order, command, etc.). a. with special reference to the subject matter, to carry out the contents of a command. b. reference also to the form, to do just as commanded, and generally involving the notion of time, to perform the last act which completes a process, to accomplish, fulfill. 3. to pay. a. of tribute.
[2] Ibid. Seismos; Word origin: Greek. 1. a shaking, a commotion. 2. a tempest. 3. an earthquake.
[3] Ibid. Ennatos; 1. ninth. a. the ninth hour corresponds to our 3 o’clock in the afternoon for the sixth hour of the Jews coincides with the twelfth of the day as divided by our method, and the first hour of the day is 6 A.M. to us.
[4] Ibid. Megas; Word origin: Greek. 1. great.
[5] Ibid., John Gills Exposition. Smote their breasts; as conscious of guilt, and as fearing some dreadful judgment would fall upon them, and their nation, for this sin of crucifying Christ. The Persic version reads, “they went back, and kneeled down, and prostrated themselves to the ground,”; as being in the utmost astonishment, confusion, fear, and dread.
[6] Walter A. Elwell, “Sheol,” Evangelical Dictionary of Theology (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2001), 1098.
[7] Ibid.
[8] Ibid.
[9] Ibid.
[10] Ibid., “Paradise,” 891.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] The Bible Collection, Strong’s Concordance. Teleo; Word origin: Greek. 3. to pay. a. of tribute.
[14] Ibid.
“IT’S OVER!” (John 19:30)[1] Loud, the words echoed—over sound like thunder (Matthew 27:54).[2] Across the Judean hillsides trickles of white lightning might have etched—but no storm. Clouds rolled, enfolding in unusual ways indicating this was not an ordinary dark sky—it was not night. It was noon.[3] “IT’S OVER!” The words echoed—reverberated.
Loudly He cried (Matthew 27:50, Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46, John 19:30).[4] And the echo of His word reverberated against the sky, eliciting gasps from unbelieving (Luke 23:48).[5] “IT’S OVER!” “IT IS FINISHED!” He was gone.
Earth quaked (Matthew 27:51), shaking vision of the eastern sky, blurring sight—and causing images to tumble. Skies darkened (Matthew 27:45, Mark 15:33, Luke 23:44-45), giving an eerie feeling of war, conflict. “IT’S OVER!” reverberated.
It was a door. A door He entered legally—passing through to be our propitiation (Romans 3:25). It had been a fatal miscalculation for a fallen angel, Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12). Meeting “Life” in death backfired. It was “over.” I believe He said, “….Devil.” “It’s over ….Devil."
Death was a door—a doorway—an entrance (Hebrews 2:9, Acts 2:24). It was an entrance leading to keys—keys of hell and the grave (Revelation 1:18). He was taking off humanity, taking action in divinity. There was perhaps a unique perspective for the thief (Luke 23:40)—passing with the Savior into paradise (Luke 23:43).
PARADISE
Paradise was known in Hebrew theology as a compartment of Sheol—that place where Old Testament saints waited and a “place from which the righteous are saved” (Psalm 49:15, 86:13; Proverbs 15:24).[6] Sheol had no hold on the righteous because God would ransom them from its power (Hosea 13:14; I Corinthians 15:55).[7] God does not abandon the righteous in Sheol (Psalm 16:10).[8] Sheol had also been known as that place where the wicked would go upon death (Job 21:13, 24:19; Psalm 9:17, 31:17, 49:14).[9] There were varied meanings in the Old Testament.
But Jesus’ propitiation made a way for those under the New Covenant to enter heaven (Romans 3:25), and His propitiation had been the promised redemption that would make the way out of Sheol for those saints under the Old Covenant (Hebrews 12:1; Romans 11:26-27).
Paradise as the abode of the righteous was viewed as a separate section of Hades, a term equivalent to Sheol (Psalm 16:10, Acts 2:27, 31).[10] The remaining references to paradise in the New Testament (II Corinthians 12:4; Revelation 2:7) being references to heaven make it appear that paradise was moved there—concurring with I Peter 3:18-19.[11]
In the moments on the cross two covenants were bridged, and the moments in transition were conveyed perhaps by Jesus words, “To day shalt thou be with me in paradise,” as he said to the thief (Luke 23:43). Paradise—a part of Sheol—is where Jesus bound the strongman in finality, and there spoiled his goods (Matthew 12:29; Mark 3:27; Colossians 2:15).
It is disputed, yet I believe Jesus entered the area of Sheol where it is held by some that Old Testament saints were awaiting the redemption Christ would offer.[12] There are various references to the after-life in scripture, using various terms. Abraham’s bosom had been a place of rest. The rich man had seen it, looking across at Lazarus (Luke 16:23). And paradise had been another place referenced on occasion in passages as recorded regarding the scene on the cross (Luke 23:43).
I believe Jesus entered Sheol, as might be indicated by I Peter, “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: by which also He went and preached unto the spirits in prison; which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah” (I Peter 3:18-20).
Jesus, binding the strongman, spoiling his goods (Matthew 12:29, Mark 3:27)—is signified in the power seen in the resurrection of the saints, giving proof of these things. Surely they did not arise from a place already in heaven, for Jesus, the first fruits of the resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20), had not yet ascended (John 20:17). They surely arose from the place from which Jesus led them away. He ascended on high, led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men (Ephesians 4:8)—the Holy Ghost, as in the Earth today, is still in the process of redeeming men supernaturally.
Jesus, passed through death as a man (Hebrews 2:9), and now had keys—of hell, death, and the grave (Revelation 1:18).
And though not yet ascended (John 20:17), Jesus demonstrated His power—for the resurrection had been evidenced in the streets of Jerusalem, as the Old Testament saints whose graves had been opened (Matthew 27:51), demonstrated His glory, walking on the streets of the Holy city in glorified resurrected bodies on their way to streets of gold (Matthew 27:52-53)—along with Christ, Who is the first fruits of the resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20; James 5:7; Revelation 14:4).
It marked the end of the Old Covenant and the beginning of the New.
Ascending, Jesus led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men (Ephesians 4:8). Ransom paid, provision made—it was “Over.”
“FINISHED!”
One rendition of the term teleo—“finished”—signifies paying tribute.[13] The Greek word means “to bring to a close, to finish, to end…passed, finished…to perform, execute, complete, fulfill, (so that the thing done corresponds to what has been said, the order, command, etc.)…with special reference to the subject matter, to carry out the contents of a command…with reference also to the form, to do just as commanded, and generally involving the notion of time, to perform the last act which completes a process, to accomplish, fulfill…to pay, of tribute.” “It is finished or paid” is expressed in John 19:30.[14]
The price had been paid and saints walking the streets of Jerusalem exhibited proof that the completion of the New Testament covenant was sealed (Ephesians 1:13).
To a repentant thief He whispered, “…Over…”
To lambs and sheep He echoed, “....Over…”
To kings and priests gloried, “….Over….”
In the power of His incarnation, “….Over….”
In sovereign determination, “….Over….”
In the power of resurrection, “….Over…”
And a thief had a ring-side seat.
I believe Jesus took the Devil by the scruff of the neck and said, “Over.”
He turned over tables with a demonstrative flare (Matthew 21:12). He stirred the ire of Pharisees with adept candor (Matthew 12:10). He unabashedly admitted He knew everything (John 2:24-25). And in the face of confrontation He surely would never have backed down (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).
The One that walked in the midst of the coals of the burning fiery furnace to rescue three Hebrew men would certainly never have avoided a walk into another fiery furnace if necessary to rescue millions (Daniel 3:24-29). He was unthreatened by the flames. The One that unabashedly confronted a Babylonian king would certainly confront a literal Devil. The resurrected Lord of Glory had been the Devil’s worst nightmare.
So it was “over.” Meeting “Life” in death had backfired.
Acts tells the repercussions—the sick healed, the lame walk, the dead rise, the truth proclaimed, the gospel preached, and the blind see (Acts 15:12)—in Christ’s name.
How many on a cross shout? One. Jesus Christ. And, “IT’S OVER.”
The centurion marveled (Mark 15:39). And, “IT’S OVER!”
The ground trembled. And, “IT’S OVER!"
Sky darkened. And, “IT’S OVER!”
The crowd shouted, “GONE!” God shouted, “MY SON!”
The Messiah had come.
And “IT’S OVER.”
[1] The Bible Collection (ValueSoft.com, 2006), Strong’s Concordance. Teleo; Word origin: Greek. 1. to bring to a close, to finish, to end. a. passed, finished. 2. to perform, execute, complete, fulfill, (so that the thing done corresponds to what has been said, the order, command, etc.). a. with special reference to the subject matter, to carry out the contents of a command. b. reference also to the form, to do just as commanded, and generally involving the notion of time, to perform the last act which completes a process, to accomplish, fulfill. 3. to pay. a. of tribute.
[2] Ibid. Seismos; Word origin: Greek. 1. a shaking, a commotion. 2. a tempest. 3. an earthquake.
[3] Ibid. Ennatos; 1. ninth. a. the ninth hour corresponds to our 3 o’clock in the afternoon for the sixth hour of the Jews coincides with the twelfth of the day as divided by our method, and the first hour of the day is 6 A.M. to us.
[4] Ibid. Megas; Word origin: Greek. 1. great.
[5] Ibid., John Gills Exposition. Smote their breasts; as conscious of guilt, and as fearing some dreadful judgment would fall upon them, and their nation, for this sin of crucifying Christ. The Persic version reads, “they went back, and kneeled down, and prostrated themselves to the ground,”; as being in the utmost astonishment, confusion, fear, and dread.
[6] Walter A. Elwell, “Sheol,” Evangelical Dictionary of Theology (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2001), 1098.
[7] Ibid.
[8] Ibid.
[9] Ibid.
[10] Ibid., “Paradise,” 891.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] The Bible Collection, Strong’s Concordance. Teleo; Word origin: Greek. 3. to pay. a. of tribute.
[14] Ibid.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Who would the Devil want dead?
"O FULL OF ALL SUBTILTY AND ALL MISCHIEF, THOU CHILD OF THE DEVIL, THOU ENEMY OF ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS, WILT THOU NOT CEASE TO PERVERT THE RIGHT WAYS OF THE LORD? AND NOW, BEHOLD, THE HAND OF THE LORD IS UPON THEE, AND THOU SHALT BE BLIND, NOT SEEING THE SUN FOR A SEASON. AND IMMEDIATELY THERE FELL ON HIM A MIST AND A DARKNESS; AND HE WENT ABOUT SEEKING SOME TO LEAD HIM BY THE HAND." ACTS 13:10-11 NKJV
Paul like other believers was zealous.
I have heard those who are moving in the gifts of the Holy Ghost, desirous to lead people to Christ, zealous in their love toward God, frustrated, bold, who expose sin, labeled Jezebels. But Jezebel didn't do those things. Jezebel was a pagan (I Kings 16:31).[1] She worshipped gods among the heathen, and Ahab married her.
God hates idolatry. And He judged enemies that enticed others to sin (Leviticus 17:7, Deuteronomy 16:22, 32:17, I Samuel 5:4, Psalm 106:37). Possibly the most recent incident like it that I witnessed involved Freemasonry. Their creed embraces all religions generally speaking, as the Masonic Bible cites,
"The Bible is used among Freemasons as a symbol of the will of God, however it may be expressed. It contains plain teaching for every rank of soul and state in life, which so far as they honestly and implicitly obey, they will be happy and innocent to the utmost powers of their nature, and capable of victory over all adversities, whether of temptation or pain. So much is its importance in Masonic daily life that it is also called one of the 'Three Great Lights of Freemasonry.' In a Lodge consisting entirely of Jews, the Old Testiment alone may be placed upon the Altar, and Turkish Freemasons make use of the Koran. Whether it be the gospels to the Christians, the Pentateuch to the Israelite, the Koran to the Muslem, or the Vedas to the Brahman, it everywhere Masonically conveys the same idea--that of the symbolism of the Divine will revealed to man."[2]
Masonic theology is devout, yet is in conflict with Christianity which acknowledges the divinity of Christ as the only means of salvation (Acts 4:12). Cornelius for example was a very devout man who had been God-fearing, and who God acknowledged, for God sent a dramatic vision, His supernatural intervention, to lead Cornelius to Christ, to give Cornelius understanding, and to introduce Cornelius to the disciples (Acts 10). God did not send him to false gods. God sent him to hear the gospel message and to be saved.
Those agreeing with ideas presented by false gods are in conflict with Christianity. Exemplifying the significance, the acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity gives the revelation (understanding) to operate in His delegated authority. That is authority to stand against demon power, which are devils worshipped in false religion (Leviticus 17:7, I Acts 14:15, 16:16, II Corinthians 6:15, Thessalonians 1:9).
Salvation brings authority to cast out those devils that bring evil (Luke 10:19-20). Jesus is the singular authority, the only way to freedom from their influences. Whereas pagan religions worship devils--in the attempt to appease them, because they cannot control them (Leviticus 17:7, II Thessalonians 2:9, Revelation 9:20, 13:4).
It may sound dramatic, but Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, various religions, are rooted in paganism, or idolatry--rooted behaviors intended to appease demon spirits, while attempting to deal with the problems caused by them. It is the basis of shamanism, a type of witchcraft indicated in scripture, typical among the idolatrous.[3] An integral part of the practices idolatry is appeasement because they have no stance of authority. They cannot cast out demon spirits without acknowledging Christs' name.
Jesus' disciples were commanded to cast out devils. And even an unknown disciple that the others did not appear to know did this (Mark 9:38-42). The endorsement of God upon Jesus' authority is celebrated by believers in Christ and He endorses them in a sense as they raise the dead and cast out devils in His name (Matthew 12:17-21).
For example in demonstration perhaps to the nurse in part God had done this as I laid my hand on my mother and asked God to heal her brain cells in Jesus' name when the nurse had told me the family needed to meet about unplugging her (the nurse walked in as I prayed for my mother). Mom woke by the next morning trying to get out of bed and trying to pull her tubes out, as they had her in restraints when I returned that morning. Signs validate Jesus' authority. If all would be raised from the dead the early disciples would be with us. Yet many were martyred for their faith--as we might. Yet ultimately all will be raised, just as Old Testament saints were raised up at Jesus resurrection, being seen around the holy city of Jerusalem (Matthew 27:52-53). The men in white apparel at Jesus grave and ascension may have been these men (Mark 16:5, Acts 1:10). Jesus ascended, as the firstfruits of the resurrection, and took these dear saints to heaven with Him (Ephesians 4:8, I Corinthians 15:20).
It may be strange to believers in Christ, yet false religion celebrates the demon possession believers renounce and it gives homage to them (as in channeling). This most likely occurred in the cave where Muhammad encountered a spirit, cited as an angel (II Corinthians 11:14).[4] In Islam it is perceived Muhammad channelled a spirit that spoke, Allah, as Muhammad spoke apparently in a strange voice, and dictated what would later be the beginning of the Koran.[5]
Those adhering to the ideas of Muhammad oppose the idea of Jesus incarnation. It is an opposition cited in the New Testament as a heresy to come in the latter days, after the inception of the church (Galatians 1:8-9, II Corinthians 11:14). Muhammad did not emerge until about 620 A.D.[6]
"Both the Bukhari and Muslim Hadiths describe what happened to Muhammad when inspiration came upon him. He heard ringing in his ears, fell to the ground, turned red, sweated profusely, made moaning sounds, spit ran from his mouth, etc. While ancient pagans placed a great deal of importance on such things, they were never a part of the biblical prophets."[7]
The description of what happened to Muhammad describes what occurs in demon possession (Mark 9:20, Matthew 4:10). In Islam they are called "jinn," are feared.[8]
The practices of idolatry in paganism, to attempt to appease demon spirits, are a trap. In all of Earth's history if what these religions were practiced had succeeded in gaining the victory over these devilish powers they already would have. Only Jesus alone could accomplish that feat. And so He did (Ephesians 1).
Paul cast out the spirit of divination for example (Acts 16:16-18). And it brought wrath against him, for the pagans had adjusted their theology to the idea of demon spirits by that time (Leviticus 17:7, I Kings 16:31, Matthew 10:8).
Yet we, through Christ, are in authority over all devils (Ephesians 6:12).
In history, the spirit called "Allah," had been a deity of the pagans before Muhammad.[9] Muslims worshipped, venerated, the black meteorite in Mecca.[10] And it is kissed in hopes of removing sins.[11] It is the reason they bow toward it, bowing toward the black meteorite housed in the Kaaba in a large tent in the city.[12]
Yet, looking in the church, believers in Christ cannot allow heresy that denies Christ, nor the infiltration of idolatry that opposed Jesus, and that Jesus opposed (Revelation 2:20).
Idolatry, for example, of all topics is targeted in the letters to the churches in Revelation highlighting the characteristics of Jezebel (Revelation 2:20). Jezebel did several things:
1) Jezebel worshipped pagan idols (I Kings 16:31)
2) Jezebel killed believers who vocally exposed sin (I Kings 18:4, 13)
3) Jezebel opposed God (Revelation 2:20)
4) Jezebel lied to have a man killed who would not sell out to her husband, setting him up and telling the people he offended God to get it done (I Kings 21:10)
5) Jezebel deliberately tried to get others to sin against God (I Kings 21:7, 15, 25)
6) Jezebel vengefully violently promoted idolatry (I Kings 19:2)
7) Jezebel promoted shamanism, the witchcraft of false religions (II Kings 9:22), the reason she is cited for it in Revelation (2:20); the Hebrew term, kesheph, for witchcraft in the context is derived from a word describing magical spells, vedas (chants), as in Islam, Hinduism, etc., incantations, enchantments, and sorceries used in idolatry [13]; at the black meteorite in Mecca Muslims incite these powers opposed to Christianity; apparently Jezebel did this (II Kings 9:22, Revelation 2:20)
8) Jezebel most likely included in the her rituals involvement in perverse sexuality that is associated with paganism, for God cited churches for fornication in addition to the whoredom of attempting to draw others away from God (I Kings 16:31, Revelation 2:20, 21)
Jezebel was judged for these things (II Kings 9:6-8).
Jezebel hated those who exposed sin and lied about them (I Kings 18:4, 21:3, 10). Jezebel was ungodly.
Jezebel, cited in Revelation for sin, apparently characterized influences of pagan idolatry brought in by some, along with sexual sins and occult influence, as eating meat offered to idols (Revelation 2:20). Pagan idolatry included practices of sexuality included in its rituals, also seen in Satan's influences today.[14] It was in the church at Thyatira (Revelation 2:20, 24).
In my study of false religion, cults and world religions, it becomes evident that the system is hated by God because it had been set forth by the Devil, Lucifer to gain himself worship and destroy men, a goal of Jezebel.
Wherever any is striving to reach men and women for Christ it would not depict Jezebel. Though we may see zealous believers looking for social order, seeking ethical, godly, living conditions, aggressive, praying for revival, being unruly in their zeal, we do not see Jezebel doing any of those things.
Jezebel would have had our zealous young prophets lied on, pilfered and stoned.
[1] Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger's Bible Dictionary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1988), 690.
[2] "Masonic Bible with Covers Carved in Abalone Shell," Phoenixmasonry Masonic Museum; available from http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/masonic _bible_with_abalone_shell.htm; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008.
[3] Mary Pat Fisher, Living Religions, 6th ed. (Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall), 376. Those spirits which Jesus defeated soundly are identified in nearly all world religions as ogres--jinn (p. 376), devas (p. 76), naga (p. 41), orisa (p. 41), Ameshta Spenta (p. 224), named or no, demons (p. 123), evil spirits (p. 149).
[4] John L. Esposito, The Oxford Dictionary of Islam (New York: Oxford University Press, 2003), 91; H.A.R. Gibb and J.H. Kramers, Shorter Encyclopedia of Islam (New York: Cornell University Press, 1965), 79; Patrick K. O'Brien, Encyclopedia of World History (New York: Facts On File, 2000), 280. It should be noted that Hadith cite the messenger testing Muhammad on doctrinal issues (Esposito, 91). That is a characteristic of Satan in the garden (Genesis 3:1). The label given later as the angel resulted most likely from contact with the gospel of Luke (Gibb, 79). Muhammad emerged approximately 620 A.D. (O'Brien, 280).
[5] Robert A. Morey, "Is The Qur'an the Word of God?" Chick Publications; available from http://www.chick.com/information/religions/islam/word_god.asp; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008; H.A.R. Gibb and J.H. Kramers, Shorter Encyclopedia of Islam , 79.
[6] F.L. Cross & E.A. Livingstone, The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, 3rd. ed. (New York: Oxford University Press, 2005), 317, 419.
[7] Robert A. Morey, "Is The Qur'an the Word of God?" Chick Publications; available from http://www.chick.com/information/religions/islam/word_god.asp.
[8] Mary Pat Fisher, Living Religions, 6th ed., 376.
[9] "Allah," Infoplease; available from http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/society/A0803374. html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[10] Rev. John Hardon, S.J., "Islam," Catholic Education Resource Center; available from http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/religion/re0679.html#12; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008.
[11] "The Black Stone of Mecca," available from http://www.crystalinks.com/blackstone. html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[12] "Kaaba," Columbia Encyclopedia; available from http://www.bartleby.com/65/ka/Kaaba.html; Internet; accessed 11 June 2008.
[13] "Lexicon Results for kesheph (Strong's H3785)," Blue Letter Bible, available from http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=03785&cscs=Isa; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[14] Russ Wise, "Satanism: The World of the Occult," Leadership U; available from http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/satanism.html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008. It should be noted that having sex with a harem of virgin women is the heaven of the Muslim. Miriam Van Scott, Encyclopedia of Heaven (New York: Thomas Dunne Books, 1998), p. 89; Norman Doidge, "The terrorists and their last-night temptresses," Jewish World Review (8 November 2001); available from http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols/doidge110801.asp; Internet; accessed 1 April 2008.
Paul like other believers was zealous.
I have heard those who are moving in the gifts of the Holy Ghost, desirous to lead people to Christ, zealous in their love toward God, frustrated, bold, who expose sin, labeled Jezebels. But Jezebel didn't do those things. Jezebel was a pagan (I Kings 16:31).[1] She worshipped gods among the heathen, and Ahab married her.
God hates idolatry. And He judged enemies that enticed others to sin (Leviticus 17:7, Deuteronomy 16:22, 32:17, I Samuel 5:4, Psalm 106:37). Possibly the most recent incident like it that I witnessed involved Freemasonry. Their creed embraces all religions generally speaking, as the Masonic Bible cites,
"The Bible is used among Freemasons as a symbol of the will of God, however it may be expressed. It contains plain teaching for every rank of soul and state in life, which so far as they honestly and implicitly obey, they will be happy and innocent to the utmost powers of their nature, and capable of victory over all adversities, whether of temptation or pain. So much is its importance in Masonic daily life that it is also called one of the 'Three Great Lights of Freemasonry.' In a Lodge consisting entirely of Jews, the Old Testiment alone may be placed upon the Altar, and Turkish Freemasons make use of the Koran. Whether it be the gospels to the Christians, the Pentateuch to the Israelite, the Koran to the Muslem, or the Vedas to the Brahman, it everywhere Masonically conveys the same idea--that of the symbolism of the Divine will revealed to man."[2]
Masonic theology is devout, yet is in conflict with Christianity which acknowledges the divinity of Christ as the only means of salvation (Acts 4:12). Cornelius for example was a very devout man who had been God-fearing, and who God acknowledged, for God sent a dramatic vision, His supernatural intervention, to lead Cornelius to Christ, to give Cornelius understanding, and to introduce Cornelius to the disciples (Acts 10). God did not send him to false gods. God sent him to hear the gospel message and to be saved.
Those agreeing with ideas presented by false gods are in conflict with Christianity. Exemplifying the significance, the acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity gives the revelation (understanding) to operate in His delegated authority. That is authority to stand against demon power, which are devils worshipped in false religion (Leviticus 17:7, I Acts 14:15, 16:16, II Corinthians 6:15, Thessalonians 1:9).
Salvation brings authority to cast out those devils that bring evil (Luke 10:19-20). Jesus is the singular authority, the only way to freedom from their influences. Whereas pagan religions worship devils--in the attempt to appease them, because they cannot control them (Leviticus 17:7, II Thessalonians 2:9, Revelation 9:20, 13:4).
It may sound dramatic, but Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, various religions, are rooted in paganism, or idolatry--rooted behaviors intended to appease demon spirits, while attempting to deal with the problems caused by them. It is the basis of shamanism, a type of witchcraft indicated in scripture, typical among the idolatrous.[3] An integral part of the practices idolatry is appeasement because they have no stance of authority. They cannot cast out demon spirits without acknowledging Christs' name.
Jesus' disciples were commanded to cast out devils. And even an unknown disciple that the others did not appear to know did this (Mark 9:38-42). The endorsement of God upon Jesus' authority is celebrated by believers in Christ and He endorses them in a sense as they raise the dead and cast out devils in His name (Matthew 12:17-21).
For example in demonstration perhaps to the nurse in part God had done this as I laid my hand on my mother and asked God to heal her brain cells in Jesus' name when the nurse had told me the family needed to meet about unplugging her (the nurse walked in as I prayed for my mother). Mom woke by the next morning trying to get out of bed and trying to pull her tubes out, as they had her in restraints when I returned that morning. Signs validate Jesus' authority. If all would be raised from the dead the early disciples would be with us. Yet many were martyred for their faith--as we might. Yet ultimately all will be raised, just as Old Testament saints were raised up at Jesus resurrection, being seen around the holy city of Jerusalem (Matthew 27:52-53). The men in white apparel at Jesus grave and ascension may have been these men (Mark 16:5, Acts 1:10). Jesus ascended, as the firstfruits of the resurrection, and took these dear saints to heaven with Him (Ephesians 4:8, I Corinthians 15:20).
It may be strange to believers in Christ, yet false religion celebrates the demon possession believers renounce and it gives homage to them (as in channeling). This most likely occurred in the cave where Muhammad encountered a spirit, cited as an angel (II Corinthians 11:14).[4] In Islam it is perceived Muhammad channelled a spirit that spoke, Allah, as Muhammad spoke apparently in a strange voice, and dictated what would later be the beginning of the Koran.[5]
Those adhering to the ideas of Muhammad oppose the idea of Jesus incarnation. It is an opposition cited in the New Testament as a heresy to come in the latter days, after the inception of the church (Galatians 1:8-9, II Corinthians 11:14). Muhammad did not emerge until about 620 A.D.[6]
"Both the Bukhari and Muslim Hadiths describe what happened to Muhammad when inspiration came upon him. He heard ringing in his ears, fell to the ground, turned red, sweated profusely, made moaning sounds, spit ran from his mouth, etc. While ancient pagans placed a great deal of importance on such things, they were never a part of the biblical prophets."[7]
The description of what happened to Muhammad describes what occurs in demon possession (Mark 9:20, Matthew 4:10). In Islam they are called "jinn," are feared.[8]
The practices of idolatry in paganism, to attempt to appease demon spirits, are a trap. In all of Earth's history if what these religions were practiced had succeeded in gaining the victory over these devilish powers they already would have. Only Jesus alone could accomplish that feat. And so He did (Ephesians 1).
Paul cast out the spirit of divination for example (Acts 16:16-18). And it brought wrath against him, for the pagans had adjusted their theology to the idea of demon spirits by that time (Leviticus 17:7, I Kings 16:31, Matthew 10:8).
Yet we, through Christ, are in authority over all devils (Ephesians 6:12).
In history, the spirit called "Allah," had been a deity of the pagans before Muhammad.[9] Muslims worshipped, venerated, the black meteorite in Mecca.[10] And it is kissed in hopes of removing sins.[11] It is the reason they bow toward it, bowing toward the black meteorite housed in the Kaaba in a large tent in the city.[12]
Yet, looking in the church, believers in Christ cannot allow heresy that denies Christ, nor the infiltration of idolatry that opposed Jesus, and that Jesus opposed (Revelation 2:20).
Idolatry, for example, of all topics is targeted in the letters to the churches in Revelation highlighting the characteristics of Jezebel (Revelation 2:20). Jezebel did several things:
1) Jezebel worshipped pagan idols (I Kings 16:31)
2) Jezebel killed believers who vocally exposed sin (I Kings 18:4, 13)
3) Jezebel opposed God (Revelation 2:20)
4) Jezebel lied to have a man killed who would not sell out to her husband, setting him up and telling the people he offended God to get it done (I Kings 21:10)
5) Jezebel deliberately tried to get others to sin against God (I Kings 21:7, 15, 25)
6) Jezebel vengefully violently promoted idolatry (I Kings 19:2)
7) Jezebel promoted shamanism, the witchcraft of false religions (II Kings 9:22), the reason she is cited for it in Revelation (2:20); the Hebrew term, kesheph, for witchcraft in the context is derived from a word describing magical spells, vedas (chants), as in Islam, Hinduism, etc., incantations, enchantments, and sorceries used in idolatry [13]; at the black meteorite in Mecca Muslims incite these powers opposed to Christianity; apparently Jezebel did this (II Kings 9:22, Revelation 2:20)
8) Jezebel most likely included in the her rituals involvement in perverse sexuality that is associated with paganism, for God cited churches for fornication in addition to the whoredom of attempting to draw others away from God (I Kings 16:31, Revelation 2:20, 21)
Jezebel was judged for these things (II Kings 9:6-8).
Jezebel hated those who exposed sin and lied about them (I Kings 18:4, 21:3, 10). Jezebel was ungodly.
Jezebel, cited in Revelation for sin, apparently characterized influences of pagan idolatry brought in by some, along with sexual sins and occult influence, as eating meat offered to idols (Revelation 2:20). Pagan idolatry included practices of sexuality included in its rituals, also seen in Satan's influences today.[14] It was in the church at Thyatira (Revelation 2:20, 24).
In my study of false religion, cults and world religions, it becomes evident that the system is hated by God because it had been set forth by the Devil, Lucifer to gain himself worship and destroy men, a goal of Jezebel.
Wherever any is striving to reach men and women for Christ it would not depict Jezebel. Though we may see zealous believers looking for social order, seeking ethical, godly, living conditions, aggressive, praying for revival, being unruly in their zeal, we do not see Jezebel doing any of those things.
Jezebel would have had our zealous young prophets lied on, pilfered and stoned.
[1] Merrill F. Unger, The New Unger's Bible Dictionary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1988), 690.
[2] "Masonic Bible with Covers Carved in Abalone Shell," Phoenixmasonry Masonic Museum; available from http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/masonic _bible_with_abalone_shell.htm; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008.
[3] Mary Pat Fisher, Living Religions, 6th ed. (Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall), 376. Those spirits which Jesus defeated soundly are identified in nearly all world religions as ogres--jinn (p. 376), devas (p. 76), naga (p. 41), orisa (p. 41), Ameshta Spenta (p. 224), named or no, demons (p. 123), evil spirits (p. 149).
[4] John L. Esposito, The Oxford Dictionary of Islam (New York: Oxford University Press, 2003), 91; H.A.R. Gibb and J.H. Kramers, Shorter Encyclopedia of Islam (New York: Cornell University Press, 1965), 79; Patrick K. O'Brien, Encyclopedia of World History (New York: Facts On File, 2000), 280. It should be noted that Hadith cite the messenger testing Muhammad on doctrinal issues (Esposito, 91). That is a characteristic of Satan in the garden (Genesis 3:1). The label given later as the angel resulted most likely from contact with the gospel of Luke (Gibb, 79). Muhammad emerged approximately 620 A.D. (O'Brien, 280).
[5] Robert A. Morey, "Is The Qur'an the Word of God?" Chick Publications; available from http://www.chick.com/information/religions/islam/word_god.asp; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008; H.A.R. Gibb and J.H. Kramers, Shorter Encyclopedia of Islam , 79.
[6] F.L. Cross & E.A. Livingstone, The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, 3rd. ed. (New York: Oxford University Press, 2005), 317, 419.
[7] Robert A. Morey, "Is The Qur'an the Word of God?" Chick Publications; available from http://www.chick.com/information/religions/islam/word_god.asp.
[8] Mary Pat Fisher, Living Religions, 6th ed., 376.
[9] "Allah," Infoplease; available from http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/society/A0803374. html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[10] Rev. John Hardon, S.J., "Islam," Catholic Education Resource Center; available from http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/religion/re0679.html#12; Internet; accessed 13 January 2008.
[11] "The Black Stone of Mecca," available from http://www.crystalinks.com/blackstone. html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[12] "Kaaba," Columbia Encyclopedia; available from http://www.bartleby.com/65/ka/Kaaba.html; Internet; accessed 11 June 2008.
[13] "Lexicon Results for kesheph (Strong's H3785)," Blue Letter Bible, available from http://cf.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=03785&cscs=Isa; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008.
[14] Russ Wise, "Satanism: The World of the Occult," Leadership U; available from http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/satanism.html; Internet; accessed 15 January 2008. It should be noted that having sex with a harem of virgin women is the heaven of the Muslim. Miriam Van Scott, Encyclopedia of Heaven (New York: Thomas Dunne Books, 1998), p. 89; Norman Doidge, "The terrorists and their last-night temptresses," Jewish World Review (8 November 2001); available from http://www.jewishworldreview.com/cols/doidge110801.asp; Internet; accessed 1 April 2008.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Conflict
Singularity is a point from which all matter in the universe can be projected. [1] It is “the whole of space shrunk down to a size of zero volume." It was first avoided by physicists.[2] But Genesis conveys singularity. God spoke the universe into existence (Genesis 1:3). The idea all matter projected from a point so small it was as tiny as a pin might make some uncomfortable.[3] But Isaiah 42:5 explains, “Thus saith God the Lord, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the Earth.”
HISTORY
After creation Satan had fallen (Isaiah 14:12, Revelation 12:7, also note Daniel 10:13, Matthew 11:12, 17:1-3, Luke 10:18, II Corinthians 12:3-4,). God gave man dominion, but Satan attempted to steal it (Genesis 1:26, 3:1, 15). All we know is shrouded in that history.
Excavations in the Middle East for example give clues of Satan's reality. There are caves on Mt. Carmel from which remains were excavated. The Tabun Cave contained those considered Neanderthal, while the Skhul cave contained human.[4] The “sons of God,” according to scripture, had mated with the “daughters of men” creating hybrid offspring (Genesis 6:1-4). Satan had been seen with them in Job 1:7 and 2:2. The New International Dictionary of the Bible defines the hybrids noted in Genesis 6:1-4, the Nephalim, as “tall, large-framed, and powerful."[5] They were found in Canaan, supporting the possibility of the reality of passages like Job 1:7 and 2:1-2.[6].
THE DEVIL IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
The idea of a Devil elicits a response. It is not logical to reject his existence (nor demon spirits') and to reject evolutionary theory too. There must be one or the other. Where the Devil and demons are real their origin had been in the past. Jesus spoke about demon spirits (Matthew 13:39; Mark 5:8).
If we embrace the gospel we must admit their existence. Salvation implies salvation from some thing. The devil is part of Christian theology. He was part of world history. Wars, conflicts, upheavals, reflect this.
GEOGRAPHY
God created, land, seas, the waters separated, dry land appeared, water gathered in one place (Genesis 9:1). The land was divided (Genesis 10:25).[7] Earth's crust caused earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes.[8] The geography of Adam's time was different (Genesis 10:25). There were natural land bridges man used to migrate, travel, to every continent, and not only travel, they took their life, history, culture, habits, lineage, customs, DNA, and religious practices with them.[9]
WORLD RELIGION
Where men went their religion went with them. Ancient ancestors erected monuments, idols, temples, pyramids, altars, pillars, obelisks, and tombs, along with houses and cities.[10] Those remains of the past are evidence of man’s quest for God. There are pyramids in North America, South America, and the Near East, Far East.[11] There are monuments on those same continents, Europe, and the islands of the Pacific.[12] There are similarities in their purpose, orientation and structure. A Temple to the Sun stood at the location of the current corner of Haight and Shrader Streets in San Francisco.[13]
There is evidence of religion and ritual. The history provides proof man attempted to relate to God and religion is a significant part of the archaeological record.
CONCLUSION
The power to create great heavens, to sustain them, was great, as was the power to prophetically steer them. The universe, geology, archaeology and history are giving us great understanding of ourselves, Earth, and God.
[1] Fred Heeren, Show Me God (Wheeling, IL: Day Star Publications, 1998), 152.
[2] Ibid.
[3] Brian Greene, "A Theory of Everything?" NOVA, available from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/everything.html; Internet; accessed 18 December 2005.
[4] "The Carmel Caves: Dwellings of Prehistoric Man," Jewish Virtual Library, available from http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Archaeology/carmel.html; Internet; accessed 18 December 2005.
[5] J.D. Douglas, ed., & Merrill C. Tenney, ed., The New International Dictionary of the Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1987), 387. The Hebrew etymology is uncertain.
[6] Ibid.; consider, Hugh Ross, Kenneth Samples, and Mark Clark, Lights in the Sky & Little Green Men: A Rational Christian Look at UFO's and Extraterrestrials (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002), 113.
[7] Linda Williams, Earth Sciences Demystified (McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing, 2004), 65.
[8] C. Burr, "The geophysics of God: a scientist embraces plate tectonics and Noah’s flood," U.S. News & World Report (16 June 1997), v122, n23, 55; "Continental Drift Paleomagnetism Seafloor Spreading," available from http://myweb.cwpost.liu.edu/vdivener/notes/cont_drift_to_tectonics.htm; Internet; accessed 18 Decenber 2005.
[9] Colin Wilson, The Atlas of Holy Places and Sacred Sites (London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 1996); Francis S. Collins, "Faith and the Human Genome," Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith, September 2003, Volume 55, Number 3, 145.
[10] Colin Wilson, The Atlas of Holy Places and Sacred Sites.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] Ibid.
HISTORY
After creation Satan had fallen (Isaiah 14:12, Revelation 12:7, also note Daniel 10:13, Matthew 11:12, 17:1-3, Luke 10:18, II Corinthians 12:3-4,). God gave man dominion, but Satan attempted to steal it (Genesis 1:26, 3:1, 15). All we know is shrouded in that history.
Excavations in the Middle East for example give clues of Satan's reality. There are caves on Mt. Carmel from which remains were excavated. The Tabun Cave contained those considered Neanderthal, while the Skhul cave contained human.[4] The “sons of God,” according to scripture, had mated with the “daughters of men” creating hybrid offspring (Genesis 6:1-4). Satan had been seen with them in Job 1:7 and 2:2. The New International Dictionary of the Bible defines the hybrids noted in Genesis 6:1-4, the Nephalim, as “tall, large-framed, and powerful."[5] They were found in Canaan, supporting the possibility of the reality of passages like Job 1:7 and 2:1-2.[6].
THE DEVIL IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
The idea of a Devil elicits a response. It is not logical to reject his existence (nor demon spirits') and to reject evolutionary theory too. There must be one or the other. Where the Devil and demons are real their origin had been in the past. Jesus spoke about demon spirits (Matthew 13:39; Mark 5:8).
If we embrace the gospel we must admit their existence. Salvation implies salvation from some thing. The devil is part of Christian theology. He was part of world history. Wars, conflicts, upheavals, reflect this.
GEOGRAPHY
God created, land, seas, the waters separated, dry land appeared, water gathered in one place (Genesis 9:1). The land was divided (Genesis 10:25).[7] Earth's crust caused earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes.[8] The geography of Adam's time was different (Genesis 10:25). There were natural land bridges man used to migrate, travel, to every continent, and not only travel, they took their life, history, culture, habits, lineage, customs, DNA, and religious practices with them.[9]
WORLD RELIGION
Where men went their religion went with them. Ancient ancestors erected monuments, idols, temples, pyramids, altars, pillars, obelisks, and tombs, along with houses and cities.[10] Those remains of the past are evidence of man’s quest for God. There are pyramids in North America, South America, and the Near East, Far East.[11] There are monuments on those same continents, Europe, and the islands of the Pacific.[12] There are similarities in their purpose, orientation and structure. A Temple to the Sun stood at the location of the current corner of Haight and Shrader Streets in San Francisco.[13]
There is evidence of religion and ritual. The history provides proof man attempted to relate to God and religion is a significant part of the archaeological record.
CONCLUSION
The power to create great heavens, to sustain them, was great, as was the power to prophetically steer them. The universe, geology, archaeology and history are giving us great understanding of ourselves, Earth, and God.
[1] Fred Heeren, Show Me God (Wheeling, IL: Day Star Publications, 1998), 152.
[2] Ibid.
[3] Brian Greene, "A Theory of Everything?" NOVA, available from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/elegant/everything.html; Internet; accessed 18 December 2005.
[4] "The Carmel Caves: Dwellings of Prehistoric Man," Jewish Virtual Library, available from http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Archaeology/carmel.html; Internet; accessed 18 December 2005.
[5] J.D. Douglas, ed., & Merrill C. Tenney, ed., The New International Dictionary of the Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1987), 387. The Hebrew etymology is uncertain.
[6] Ibid.; consider, Hugh Ross, Kenneth Samples, and Mark Clark, Lights in the Sky & Little Green Men: A Rational Christian Look at UFO's and Extraterrestrials (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002), 113.
[7] Linda Williams, Earth Sciences Demystified (McGraw-Hill Professional Publishing, 2004), 65.
[8] C. Burr, "The geophysics of God: a scientist embraces plate tectonics and Noah’s flood," U.S. News & World Report (16 June 1997), v122, n23, 55; "Continental Drift Paleomagnetism Seafloor Spreading," available from http://myweb.cwpost.liu.edu/vdivener/notes/cont_drift_to_tectonics.htm; Internet; accessed 18 Decenber 2005.
[9] Colin Wilson, The Atlas of Holy Places and Sacred Sites (London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 1996); Francis S. Collins, "Faith and the Human Genome," Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith, September 2003, Volume 55, Number 3, 145.
[10] Colin Wilson, The Atlas of Holy Places and Sacred Sites.
[11] Ibid.
[12] Ibid.
[13] Ibid.
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