Glory of Jesus came from both Wisdom and Power so whosoever received him was under the covenant that shall be fulfilled in the Son. So the flesh of body ought to tell us there is more to it. (Jesus Christ) "Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself." (Ph.3:21) In the previous post we considered trinity, of body spirit and soul serving as a witness as Jesus was the Faithful and true witness. It was not merely in terms of the body. Our soul is the inner man and he also bears witnesses in terms of the Word. Three agree in heaven: the Father the Word and the Spirit. We shall see this distinction in "the seventy times seven"(Matt.18:22) This applies to the world of the flesh and blood." The Holy city of God is however measured, which is a single measurement of an angel, and man. It is Gospel based and not according to man's life span. "an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel." (Re.21:17)
The memorial in heaven (Ch.4) does not show the cloud of witnesses nevertheless we hear them. "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth./ And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;"(Re.5:10-11). Compare the number with this verse, "A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
"Ten thousand times ten thousand" is about the final salvation, and it explains why Jesus denounced the workers of iniquity. They did not do the will of God the Father. They were called to one body but they did not fit with 'the one flesh" which is about the Christ and the Bride
"Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."
Everlasting covenant is between God and the Man who is none other than the Son. Consequently it is between two equals. When the Word became flesh the same two principles were also invested in the believer. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." ( John 1:12) This power must work throughly so when one claims," Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven./ Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?" (Matt.7:21-23). What is the response of Jesus? "And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Power that a believer handles is a live wire and what Christ knocking at the door (Re.3:20) is to caution him to handle this power to profit. "But when the multitudes saw it, they marveled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men." So power principle gives man force and authority coming from grace and truth. So this principle coupled with wisdom lifts man despite of his vile body into the Covenant and he is represented in the Man component. No other way he could be truly called a son of God. John's quote tells us that.
The will of God established ' the one flesh' so when Adam woke from his deep sleep correctly identified Eve's role. "And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh."(Ge.2:23) Wisdom principle is at work and the Spirit clothes the Covenant having power on man, and it is in similitude, of the Bride of Christ. The crowd glorified God when Jesus healed. John saw the selfsame glory of the flesh, ( John 1:14)
Dear Loisanne: I pray that you will get some rest; physically; emotionally or spiritually as needed in due time.
I have had to face my own mortality since getting some adhesion issues after abdominal surgery last summer; where complications kept me hospitalized a couple sessions adding up to a total of 21 days. There are some other issues trying to care and live with my parents in their nineties.
We both know that our sojourn here is brief; life is as a vapor. I have seen in my lifetime since a generation ago the interest in the Rapture which has been delayed past when expected (there is a verse that says when hope is deferred it makes the heart sick). I have felt called to preach on the end times since then; but never have found a "niche" in that sort of ministry. What we expect and what is the actual meaning of the "Fig Tree Generation" clearly has had some misunderstanding; which has lead some to go the way of Preterism (the Lord somehow has mysteriously returned in some form); or Post Millennial persuasion not believing in the Rapture. Sadder still; of course is that those that espouse a belief in such often are so lukewarm that one wonders what their true spritual state is in making the Rapture.
I don't know your situation from the posting; many such as I went through betrayal from a spouse and divorce. I have my own conviction in preaching that remarriage is wrong based on scripture while my spouse is still alive despite her remarriage. It has led to much confusion; nonetheless there are those out there that support that view. I am the only believer in my family as well. I'm grateful to have a roof over my head and food on the table in a well policed suburban area. I have known in the past the fear of living next to a Satan worshipper; drug dealers loose in my apartment; and those having violent altercations below me. I pray God grants you courage wherever you are.
I pray that we as Paul can rejoice during these momentary trials.
Being Born Again, see John 3:9, Jesus told Nicodemus its Like the Spirit is like the Wind, One the Spirit is in you, you are in Christ Sitting on the Right Hand of God
After being Born Again, it you went to an Altar and asked Jesus to Save You, You Committed a SIN, You entered into a Contract and You will Get Pride Out of Contract, this will Cause you to Fall under Condemnation/Control of the Devil, 1st Tim 3:6, and Revelations 12:9 see AskElm com for SECRETS HIDDEN over 1,800 Years and its GOOD NEW!
No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. HEREBY KNOW WE THAT WE DWELL IN HIM, AND HE IN US, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
What John is saying is that no man has seen God at any time but if we love one another God dwells in us. In other words God today can manifest himself through believers in loving one another, "and the world sees That!
John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
"What makes this so unique?" What's new about it? Isn't it listed in the Commandments? What's unique and new about it is that he causes it!
Look at verse 35.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,.
( God gave us his Spirit that causes us to love the Brothern.)
God's Spirit, "The Holyspirit" causes those who loves God to love his brother also. 1 John 4:21"
Romans 5:5.
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
It is the Holy Spirit who regenerate you to become a believer and He indwells ever believer who confesses Jesus as Savior.
So, if you are a believer, then He dwells in you.
You ask how can you know? It is by faith from first to last that we believe the gospel and all that Jesus promised. He promised the Holy Spirit would live in us, and He does. We believe in Him trusting that He is truthful in all that He said and promised.
Romans 8:16 says: "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:"
Hebrews 12:6 states: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Matthew 5:44-46 says
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
These verses bring a clear understanding of those who are His children and possess His Spirit from those who don't. We can't love our enemies in our own strength in the same way we can in Him; but perhaps the other side of the argument should be examined; we cannot hate our sin; our former "good deeds" and appreciate the verse in Jeremiah 17:9 about our hearts being "deceitfully wicked" apart from a revelation from God through His Spirit. This truth results in a response of repentance whose origin comes from God; and results in actions coming from a new heart or nature; rather than just outer actions in some attempt to be righteous in our own strength. Atheists can often be more "moral" than we are in charitable giving; for example but they cannot without self righteousness. Thus; no amount of penance; fasting; etc. can save us. Jesus begins the work and to those He has called and chosen He insures that they are sanctified and glorified after being saved as we see from Romans 8:30.
Other Gospel verses show that His sheep hear His voice. We have true love for other believers if we are saved as well as a true love for Christ and we trust Him as well and have Him not just as Savior but Lord and Master as well.
The enemy will often convince us otherwise but believers have overcome the world.
As long as one does after his own desires and priorities he is serving the body of death. With his mind he serves the law of God "but with the flesh the law of sin." Whosoever is freed from condemnation must be led by the Spirit and no other short cuts. The three witnesses in the Spirit form the inner man "after the likeness" of God. ("Let us make man in our image, after our likeness"-Ge.1:26). The Spirit given us is as a pledge, "God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit" also has given similar tokens so body spirit and soul serve as a witness for us in heaven. The glorious spiritual body, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" and the cloud of witnesses bear witness of the many promises of God. Apostle John writes, "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one." This cloud is set as witness for the soul of man. "For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life."(2 Co.5:4). The spirit of man is fortified by the in-house tutor, so mortality being swallowed up by life renders Christ as the head for the spiritual body held in reserve for us.
For this reason Jesus assured,"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven./For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." This is the context for Re.3:20. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Supping one to one is much more than confessing Jesus Christ as the Lord.
"Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven./Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants."
'Therefore' preceding the verse connects the verse before which gives us the Perfect number 7 and multiples of it. Kingdom of heaven calls for accounts which is directly pendent to the everlasting covenant drawn up in 'seven' days. God blessed His servants in manifold ways covered by verses in Ge.1:3- till 2:3. In the Parable of Jesus he refers God's commandment to man is service. He is the steward. Adam is a representational figure.(Ge.1:28) These are the Abstract and God shall require of his servants the proof of their service. Seventy is a man's life ("The days of our years are threescore years and ten,"-Ps.90:10). In short seventy years signifies the end times so when Jesus appointed seventy 'other' disciples he is referring to the everlasting gospel.( Luke 10:1)
The Spirit gives us an example of the Min-Max mode of narrative where a specific even veers of to the end times. Malachi 3:1 is a classic example. How we serve today is set in direct frame of reference to the Judgement so without abiding in Christ as so many branches to the true vine we are like the servant who hid his talent in the ground. ( John 15:3)
How does the talent is converted into the quality of service that one does? Gifts of the Spirit is given for building up each servant as well as for the common good. "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."(1 Co.12:7). And it is towards the one body to which gifts severally given to each member should count. In short no one may dare offending the will of God by serving as he pleases but according to 1 John 5:7-8.Both heaven and the earth must agree. "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body"(v.13)
" Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other."
This verse recalls the Father Son relationship in the godhead. Holiness of God is eternal because of the Law."Thy word is truth." Consequently mercy and truth can be rephrased as thus:"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The Spirit informs us truth and what as from the beginning.
God is qualified as the Father of all mercies.(2 Co.1:3)sent his Son and in his logos aspect it is grace that he revealed. So grace is what allows the blessings of God work abundantly. "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him./ For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust".(Ps.103:13-14). Jesus in his humanity carried the voice of the Lord so people marveled at his words, which the Spirit qualifies as the word of his grace. By the same token when Jesus Christ is risen he is said to be' And upholding all things by the word of his power.'In short grace and power are the means to establish the everlasting covenant between Mercy and Truth.
This is the word of truth witnessing in our heart, a spiritual space. Accordingly the cloud of witnesses are not merely any ornament one adds to his person to add dignity or honor but the truth: Mercy and truth are met together.
"Righteousness and peace have kissed each other."
We received Jesus by faith and we confess that he is in us. If we hate our brother as the word of God says that we are in darkness. And we made him a liar. "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:"(1 Co.1:30; 1 John 2:9-11) We are called to be as was in heaven, Righteoussness of God and Christ, who of us is peace so when we keep peace between brethren Christ is in our midst. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."(Matt.18:19-20)
But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work. ( John 5:17).
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. ( Colossians 3:23-24).
These two verses demonstrate to us that work in the secular or "spiritual" realm is to be done with all of our might (following the principal of Ecclesiastes 9:10). Christ actually states that in some cases such as John 4:38 that they have reaped what others have sown. John 4 discusses the conversion of the Samaritan woman (woman at the well) and her evangelistic campaign. In this case she did the sowing and the Disciples reaped the benefits. It is interesting to think that she was the first evangelist listed even before the Disciples were sent out two by two (I think). Even Jesus didn't have to work that hard in that respect; such gratitude for being saved by sins was shown in other women such as Mary Magdeline. Would we all approach the Great Commission with such eagerness.
When it comes to our everyday jobs I am grateful in my situation even with just part time work being all that I can do with other responsibilities that I am surrounded by people that work hard. I work doing food prep in a high school kitchen; and especially with intense State Inspection coming those who would want to mess about won't remain very long. Having supervisors that I respect in each of the other surrounding schools in the District where we are sent on occasion is an added bonus; along with the lady from one of them that joined our team today. There are a number of passages discussing employer and employee relations (in many cases servant and master analogy). Our work ethic isn't a substitute for sharing God's Word; but an opportune moment won't earn any respect if we don't have a foundation of trusted service for the weeks or months before such a conversation can occur.
"So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses."
The Lord of the servant in the parable showed compassion as blessings of God come down from the greater to the lesser. Compassion as a facet of holiness of God is another manner love is irradiated as the cut diamond throws up several colors each from one single source of light. God as the Father of lights manifested so Jesus Christ is the true Light is the prism that provides us the glory of God into our individual spiritual space. The servant who hid his one talent did not detract from the glory but proved he was worthy of damnation.
The rich man 'clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day' that was very well and good as far as the intrinsic value of a talent goes, but the sin crept in when he shut off Lazarus from his sights, and he denied the Spirit of life that bound him came from the same God who gave life as a blessing. In denying his presence was an insult to His holiness. He was no better than the Rich Fool in the parable. "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." (Jas.4:17)
Coming back to the Parable the egregious blunder of the unforgiving servant was that he shut out the inestimable riches the Lord held in reserve. "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him."(1 Co.2:9). The Lord showed pity on him because of his flesh. The Spirit of life nevertheless was the power with which he could have mountains in his service. No his eye was all focused on a paltry debt. (1 Co.4:7-9) "not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another./ For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory"
"Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Unity is achieved by the everlasting gospel and it is one aspect of the Advent of the Son. "Mercy and truth are met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; And our land shall yield her increase."(Ps.85:10-13)
Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ which according to the scriptures was like a dry plant, "For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground." (Is.53:2). While we look at the cloud of witnesses their place in heaven is a constant reminder that God as the Husbandman ( John 15:1) is ever provident that 'our land' shall yield her increase. This land is not the dry ground Prophet Isaiah mentioned in the above mentioned quote. The ground was cursed because of sin and it required correction. The land that abides forever is special, soil is well prepared from which truth shall ever spring to heavenwards. This soil is what the heart signifies, and it is a spiritual space. The word of God has created it totally new so when the word of God speaks, "That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world,"(Ph.2:15) it is to be understood as the Garden of Eden, our earthly tabernacle.
The voice of the Lord does a miracle with the heart that is right before him."The voice of the Lord maketh the hinds to calve, and discovereth the forests: and in his temple doth every one speak of his glory."(Ps.29:9).
As mentioned above there is a cloud of witnesses from heaven and also a building of God, "An house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." As associates of Christ our power comes from this unity.
Tina, I will pray for you to grow and mature in your faith in Jesus. We worship God in Christ Jesus together, so continue to fix your sights on Jesus in worship and He will direct your lie path Godward in all things.
Tina, I am glad you came to us here for prayer. We join you in your outcry to God and in the truth that He who began this good work in you will bring it to His desired completion. May you remain steadfast in your faith and trust in God this day and every day going forward.
"And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them." Jesus assured "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live"( John 11:25). Three days and an half gives us the assurance that the two witnesses were a sign, that the spirit of life that raised the Son from death worked in their case as well. So vv.9-10 explain in what sense we need interpret, "the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves."(v.9) . They are witnesses even in their death that not a jot or iota from the Law shall be changed.
" And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand."(v.13)
At the same hour is a tag to the day of judgment that shall follow. Ten indicates judgment and 7x1000 determines it is decreed from heaven.
"And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city," Martyrdom of two witnesses lying in the street is a sign. We have Jesus telling his disciples how to respond to the cities where they were not received. "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet./Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city."(Matt.10:14-15). When Jesus concludes his 'woe to ye' indictment he says,"Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." (Matt.23:38). This was a sure indication that the house was not worthy since they had rejected the prince of peace. "And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you." Israel shall never be at rest till they receive him, "For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."(23:39). The two witnesses lying in the street of the great city is to be spiritually understood. They serve as a sign of doom of disasters that shall visit upon them. The names of cities are interchangeable. The stone that angel cast down signals the fall of Babylon (Re.18:21) and it could be applied to all cities of the world.
The sign of his coming is sure of the day of judgment for these cities. "For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities./Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works."(Re.18:5-6) We see it even now. 'Globalism' was the watchword of nations living deliciously and' Greed is good was their mantra. Now it is dead. The beast who shall appear is part of long line of powers- that-be and they shall do evil. " And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition."(17:11)
Take this to the Lord in prayer so that your instincts may be guided by the Holy spirit alone, then you will know what choice is best for you and your sister. I will pray for you.
Dear heavenly Father, we ask of you in the name of Jesus guidance for John as he considers this offer from his siter to move to Hawaii or to remain here. Give John clarity as to what You desire for him to choose in this matter. Also, guide his sister in Hawaii as to what is best so that there will be agreement between her and John. Fill the needs of both John and his sister so that the decision made will truly be of you and not of themselves. Amen.
The kingdom entrusted to Jesus was not of this world. "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence." ( John 18:36). God made angels spirits and ministers flaming fire, which Elisha could see for which faith is required. Instead what does the false prophet do? "And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men." The source for this elsewhere and like the magicians in the court of Pharaoh resisted Moses and God. Similarly the beast wields people power while the anti-Christ spoke as the dragon would, "And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon." (Re.13:11,13)
With this background the early church had to contend with the Jews, "Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie."(Re.3:9) Herod had spawned a political movement. Authority of Herod was as with the beast came from Satan. "And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months." 42 months include such temporal powers, each one resisting God. Nationalism of the Idumaean line was propped up by Imperial Rome. And is it of any surprise when Christianity became the official religion, and absorbed the culture of the Church of Rome,- Christian nationalism and culture wars are tares planted by the enemy.
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."(12:11) The two witnesses, 'loved not their lives unto the death'. Jesus assures, " For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."(Matt.16:25)
"The beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them."
First point to note is that the beast is a composite figure as the two witnesses represent the saints to whom Jesus Christ gave power according to the promise of God, and are called and blessed in his Son.. "The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies."(Ps.110:2) These enemies on the earth are caused by 'the war in heaven.'(Re.12:7). And the consequence of it we read in v.12. "Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."
This short time is clearly set by the Spirit even as the earthly ministry of Jesus and of the two witnesses. 42 is a number designated by God so the time of the Gentiles or heathen is likewise determined. John was sent as a messenger who was killed by the sword. Herod Antipas, it must be stressed was a vassal king to Caligula as another Herod, Herod Agrippa would have James killed. One killed because of his oath and the other killed James because he wanted to please the crowd. in whichever case the beast is associated with qualities totally antithetical to Jesus. The beast rising out of the sea (Re.13:1) is from below the earth as Jesus is from heaven. He is the king," The Lord sitteth upon the flood."(Ps.29:10) What is the characteristic of the sea? The beast represent the wicked," But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt."(Is.57:20). While we have the likes of Herod whose power is derived from some one else as enemies to Christ, the two witnesses represent an angel a man so the golden reed is their measurement and signify the everlasting gospel entrusted to them. Herod also gave rise to a political movement in the days of Jesus. (Matt.22:15-16)
The '1260 days' is a tag supplied the Spirit to indicate the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. By the same token the Gentiles are allowed to operate for 42 months. The 42 months' similarly is a tag. In an earlier post we saw 'the hour" during which the power of darkness prevailing over the children of disobedience. ( Luke 22:53). The beast as well as the enemies to Jesus who took him in the night belonged to the son of perdition. Judas Iscariot belonged to this group. This conflict reveals two laws, of the Spirit and of the sin.
Let us look at the characteristics of the two witnesses. They are representatives of several prophets coming under the earthly ministry of Jesus who is the fulfillment of the law. They were "clothed in sackcloth'. It echoes the mourning of Daniel for three weeks,"(Dan.10:2-3)
"And have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will." This recalls to us the seven plagues of Egypt" and of Elijah, "These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy." In short these two witnesses present a composite picture of heroes of faith(He.11:33-38)
On the flip side the number 42 months gives the beast who is a composite figure. John the Baptist was beheaded under a Herod and we have the beast in the Acts of the Apostles, "Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church./And he killed James the brother of John with the sword./And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also."(Ac.12:1-3)
Finally " Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein." This temple is not anything extant but what was founded on Zion. (1s.28:16) We see its culmination in Re.21.22-23
And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it./... for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."(11:3)
Who is the authority to confer power on men but the Lord from heaven, who is heavenly? "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." The risen Christ in his humanity was the Word become flesh, so his authority stretched from Alpha the beginning. In his Ascension he was to be seated on the right hand of the Most High so Omega aspect, the ending referred to fulfilling the divine Will of his Father. " Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power"(Ps.110:1-3). Firstly the two witnesses belong to 'thy people'. These were given to the Son. "and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are."( John 17:11)
The chapter began with a golden reed and the angel directing John what to leave out and what to include requires attention. "for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." This reed is a single measurement. "And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel."(Re.21:17) Gold signifies faith and here single measurement is of the angel,- the fellow-servant of John and of the man to whom the Son has given authority. Power of the little ones and their angels positioned to behold the face of the Father always defines the golden reed. Every other scale is false.
Prophesy is another feature and the two witnesses would do it for "a thousand two hundred and threescore days. "For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John."(Matt.11:11)
The days is a tag supplied the Spirit to indicate the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. By the same token the Gentiles are allowed to operate for 42 months. This conflict reveals two laws, of the Spirit and of the sin.
Let us consider our use of sarcasm as individuals. Does your sarcastic remarks promote was is spoken of in these passages or do they work counter to the objective of these passages?
Eph. 4:1-3
"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of your vocation wherewith ye are called, with lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Does one's sarcasm promote unity or divide, peace or disturbance in relationship?
Is the sarcasm proceed from lowliness and meekness or does it proceed from pridefulness and self-elevation over another?
Does the sarcasm come forth from longsuffering or is it reactive, a "come back at ya", response? Is it winsome in its intent and effect entreating the other to holy fellowship? Does it show forbearance with another in love or is it" touchy" and self-serving?
Eph. 4:29
"Let no corrupt (unholy) communication proceed from your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."
Is one's sarcasm holy or unholy speech? Does it honor God and respect the person spoken to? Does it build up or tear down the hearer? Does it hurt or heal the hearer? Does it promote equalness in the relationship or does it inflate the speaker to the detriment of the hearer? Does it seek to be cooperative rather than competitive (getting to "one-up" another or win in a discussion)?
Eph. 5:4
"..Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient, but rather of giving of thanks."
Is one's sarcasm sober and mindful or foolish talking? Does it make fun of another or "jest" in a way that the other person doesn't like? Are you really "just Kidding, joking, or being humorous" in a mutually humorous and receptive conversation or does the sarcasm come from irritation, anger, or wanting to get at the hearer to put them down or shut them up?
I'm still studying on our other discussion but I did want to say my sarcasm was meant to make a point. I still haven't heard from Chris that I offended him, as far as I know. I agree with most of what you said. If sarcasm is done in a way that is displeasing to God it shouldn't be done. The sarcasm should be apologized for and the believer should ask God for forgiveness for hurting the other person and to help him to overcome using sarcasm in a hurtful way. God Bless :)
Hello GiGi: When I made that one small sarcastic remark to Chris, it was to make a point, not to offend anyone but you jumped on it like it was a terrible sin and seemed to be glad to finally have "proof" that I was a "sinner." That's the way I took it. If you had simply asked me not to do it anymore, because it offended you, I would have been fine with that. Now you've blown it all out of proportion and seemed to be including Chris and Adam in the turmoil. I have apologized for offending you and Chris, whom according to you, was also offended. I will say to Adam, IF I have offended you also I apologize for your misunderstanding of my use of sarcasm like GiGi and, I guess, Chris have and were also offended. I don't know how you even got involved in this so, sorry. GiGi, your dissing on me and calling me snarky seems worse to me then a little sarcasm. You even seem a little angry. So, I will finish my commitment to the Lord about the other matter we were discussing but you won't hear back about it from me because I don't intend on having any more discussions with you and Chris and Adam of any kind. I think we should part ways. I'll see you all in Heaven some day. God Bless:)
In your post to Chris you did make more than one small sarcastic remark. You even disparaged God in it.
I was not lying in wait for you to error so I could point out your sin. But your remarks prompted me to enter the conversation. I was not angry with you, just sad that you said what you did in a conversation that was centered on whether one can come to the point of being sinless in this lie, as you asserted about yourself. In speaking sarcastically as you did, you were not merely making a point to support your position or to show the error of Chris' view, in my opinion.
I am sorry that you have made the choice to eliminate conversation with some of us here. That is sad to me. I thought you considered me a friend, and I value that. But friends should be able to be honest in gentle ways for the purpose of helping one another, even if it involves showing where we sin against one another.
I hope that you will change your mind and also remember that if you post on this forum, anyone can reply to what you say, so even if you do not wish to speak to me or Adam or Chris, we are free to speak to what you post here. I pray that
God will bring healing and restoration between us as well as help us all to be open when someone identifies sin in what we say here, as I did in your case. The best thing you can do is examine yourself before God and confess yourself a sinner before Him as I and most on here do when we realize that we have sinned, even though our "new man" does not want to sin, as Paul says so well in Romans 7.
Thanks GiGi for that detailed & timely reminder of what our Christian attitudes ought to be & how they are then expressed to others; and this examination by each one of us has to be first addressed when the seeds within our hearts & minds begin to germinate. Unless the feelings that arise within are not arrested early enough, we may well have to regret our words or behavior.
But then the matter of 'what then is sin'? I think most would agree that it is much more than violating the Ten Commandments, even as our Lord pointed His hearers to their own hearts to correctly understand this subject. But when it comes down to those regrettable things that arise within us which are not specifically addressed in the Word, we may find license to overlook them & treat them as not sinful, merely aberrations arising from the flesh. So, it may boil down to, 'what is sinful to some, may not be to others' (at least, until all are truly led of the Spirit to recognize sin for what sin is, or to those particularly sensitive to any deviation from the holy, to re-examine their beliefs by the Spirit's Guidance). And I too, have had to re-read my comments here, not only for clearly conveying my thoughts, but also to see whether my words could be hurtful or misunderstood, words arising from a mind overly passionate about the subject. I guess that I have failed in this as well at times. Blessings.
We do need to guard that our passion for a topic or doctrine not override our release of loving words seated in truth and grace.
I can tell by your writings that you do approach your responses with consideration for the one who will read them and to whom you are replying to. You are a good example on this forum and I do appreciate your demeanor and the gentle way you address conflicting views.
Glory of Jesus came from both Wisdom and Power so whosoever received him was under the covenant that shall be fulfilled in the Son. So the flesh of body ought to tell us there is more to it. (Jesus Christ) "Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself." (Ph.3:21) In the previous post we considered trinity, of body spirit and soul serving as a witness as Jesus was the Faithful and true witness. It was not merely in terms of the body. Our soul is the inner man and he also bears witnesses in terms of the Word. Three agree in heaven: the Father the Word and the Spirit. We shall see this distinction in "the seventy times seven"(Matt.18:22) This applies to the world of the flesh and blood." The Holy city of God is however measured, which is a single measurement of an angel, and man. It is Gospel based and not according to man's life span. "an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel." (Re.21:17)
The memorial in heaven (Ch.4) does not show the cloud of witnesses nevertheless we hear them. "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth./ And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;"(Re.5:10-11). Compare the number with this verse, "A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.
"Ten thousand times ten thousand" is about the final salvation, and it explains why Jesus denounced the workers of iniquity. They did not do the will of God the Father. They were called to one body but they did not fit with 'the one flesh" which is about the Christ and the Bride
"Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."
Everlasting covenant is between God and the Man who is none other than the Son. Consequently it is between two equals. When the Word became flesh the same two principles were also invested in the believer. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." ( John 1:12) This power must work throughly so when one claims," Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven./ Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?" (Matt.7:21-23). What is the response of Jesus? "And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Power that a believer handles is a live wire and what Christ knocking at the door (Re.3:20) is to caution him to handle this power to profit. "But when the multitudes saw it, they marveled, and glorified God, which had given such power unto men." So power principle gives man force and authority coming from grace and truth. So this principle coupled with wisdom lifts man despite of his vile body into the Covenant and he is represented in the Man component. No other way he could be truly called a son of God. John's quote tells us that.
The will of God established ' the one flesh' so when Adam woke from his deep sleep correctly identified Eve's role. "And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh."(Ge.2:23) Wisdom principle is at work and the Spirit clothes the Covenant having power on man, and it is in similitude, of the Bride of Christ. The crowd glorified God when Jesus healed. John saw the selfsame glory of the flesh, ( John 1:14)
I have had to face my own mortality since getting some adhesion issues after abdominal surgery last summer; where complications kept me hospitalized a couple sessions adding up to a total of 21 days. There are some other issues trying to care and live with my parents in their nineties.
We both know that our sojourn here is brief; life is as a vapor. I have seen in my lifetime since a generation ago the interest in the Rapture which has been delayed past when expected (there is a verse that says when hope is deferred it makes the heart sick). I have felt called to preach on the end times since then; but never have found a "niche" in that sort of ministry. What we expect and what is the actual meaning of the "Fig Tree Generation" clearly has had some misunderstanding; which has lead some to go the way of Preterism (the Lord somehow has mysteriously returned in some form); or Post Millennial persuasion not believing in the Rapture. Sadder still; of course is that those that espouse a belief in such often are so lukewarm that one wonders what their true spritual state is in making the Rapture.
I don't know your situation from the posting; many such as I went through betrayal from a spouse and divorce. I have my own conviction in preaching that remarriage is wrong based on scripture while my spouse is still alive despite her remarriage. It has led to much confusion; nonetheless there are those out there that support that view. I am the only believer in my family as well. I'm grateful to have a roof over my head and food on the table in a well policed suburban area. I have known in the past the fear of living next to a Satan worshipper; drug dealers loose in my apartment; and those having violent altercations below me. I pray God grants you courage wherever you are.
I pray that we as Paul can rejoice during these momentary trials.
After being Born Again, it you went to an Altar and asked Jesus to Save You, You Committed a SIN, You entered into a Contract and You will Get Pride Out of Contract, this will Cause you to Fall under Condemnation/Control of the Devil, 1st Tim 3:6, and Revelations 12:9 see AskElm com for SECRETS HIDDEN over 1,800 Years and its GOOD NEW!
I would like to add to what Gigi has shared.
1 John 4:12-16.
No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. HEREBY KNOW WE THAT WE DWELL IN HIM, AND HE IN US, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
What John is saying is that no man has seen God at any time but if we love one another God dwells in us. In other words God today can manifest himself through believers in loving one another, "and the world sees That!
John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
"What makes this so unique?" What's new about it? Isn't it listed in the Commandments? What's unique and new about it is that he causes it!
Look at verse 35.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
John 3:16
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,.
( God gave us his Spirit that causes us to love the Brothern.)
God's Spirit, "The Holyspirit" causes those who loves God to love his brother also. 1 John 4:21"
Romans 5:5.
And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
I hope this helps. God bless.
It is the Holy Spirit who regenerate you to become a believer and He indwells ever believer who confesses Jesus as Savior.
So, if you are a believer, then He dwells in you.
You ask how can you know? It is by faith from first to last that we believe the gospel and all that Jesus promised. He promised the Holy Spirit would live in us, and He does. We believe in Him trusting that He is truthful in all that He said and promised.
Hebrews 12:6 states: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Matthew 5:44-46 says
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
These verses bring a clear understanding of those who are His children and possess His Spirit from those who don't. We can't love our enemies in our own strength in the same way we can in Him; but perhaps the other side of the argument should be examined; we cannot hate our sin; our former "good deeds" and appreciate the verse in Jeremiah 17:9 about our hearts being "deceitfully wicked" apart from a revelation from God through His Spirit. This truth results in a response of repentance whose origin comes from God; and results in actions coming from a new heart or nature; rather than just outer actions in some attempt to be righteous in our own strength. Atheists can often be more "moral" than we are in charitable giving; for example but they cannot without self righteousness. Thus; no amount of penance; fasting; etc. can save us. Jesus begins the work and to those He has called and chosen He insures that they are sanctified and glorified after being saved as we see from Romans 8:30.
Other Gospel verses show that His sheep hear His voice. We have true love for other believers if we are saved as well as a true love for Christ and we trust Him as well and have Him not just as Savior but Lord and Master as well.
The enemy will often convince us otherwise but believers have overcome the world.
As long as one does after his own desires and priorities he is serving the body of death. With his mind he serves the law of God "but with the flesh the law of sin." Whosoever is freed from condemnation must be led by the Spirit and no other short cuts. The three witnesses in the Spirit form the inner man "after the likeness" of God. ("Let us make man in our image, after our likeness"-Ge.1:26). The Spirit given us is as a pledge, "God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit" also has given similar tokens so body spirit and soul serve as a witness for us in heaven. The glorious spiritual body, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" and the cloud of witnesses bear witness of the many promises of God. Apostle John writes, "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one." This cloud is set as witness for the soul of man. "For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life."(2 Co.5:4). The spirit of man is fortified by the in-house tutor, so mortality being swallowed up by life renders Christ as the head for the spiritual body held in reserve for us.
For this reason Jesus assured,"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven./For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." This is the context for Re.3:20. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Supping one to one is much more than confessing Jesus Christ as the Lord.
"Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven./Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants."
'Therefore' preceding the verse connects the verse before which gives us the Perfect number 7 and multiples of it. Kingdom of heaven calls for accounts which is directly pendent to the everlasting covenant drawn up in 'seven' days. God blessed His servants in manifold ways covered by verses in Ge.1:3- till 2:3. In the Parable of Jesus he refers God's commandment to man is service. He is the steward. Adam is a representational figure.(Ge.1:28) These are the Abstract and God shall require of his servants the proof of their service. Seventy is a man's life ("The days of our years are threescore years and ten,"-Ps.90:10). In short seventy years signifies the end times so when Jesus appointed seventy 'other' disciples he is referring to the everlasting gospel.( Luke 10:1)
The Spirit gives us an example of the Min-Max mode of narrative where a specific even veers of to the end times. Malachi 3:1 is a classic example. How we serve today is set in direct frame of reference to the Judgement so without abiding in Christ as so many branches to the true vine we are like the servant who hid his talent in the ground. ( John 15:3)
How does the talent is converted into the quality of service that one does? Gifts of the Spirit is given for building up each servant as well as for the common good. "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."(1 Co.12:7). And it is towards the one body to which gifts severally given to each member should count. In short no one may dare offending the will of God by serving as he pleases but according to 1 John 5:7-8.Both heaven and the earth must agree. "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body"(v.13)
" Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other."
This verse recalls the Father Son relationship in the godhead. Holiness of God is eternal because of the Law."Thy word is truth." Consequently mercy and truth can be rephrased as thus:"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." The Spirit informs us truth and what as from the beginning.
God is qualified as the Father of all mercies.(2 Co.1:3)sent his Son and in his logos aspect it is grace that he revealed. So grace is what allows the blessings of God work abundantly. "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him./ For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust".(Ps.103:13-14). Jesus in his humanity carried the voice of the Lord so people marveled at his words, which the Spirit qualifies as the word of his grace. By the same token when Jesus Christ is risen he is said to be' And upholding all things by the word of his power.'In short grace and power are the means to establish the everlasting covenant between Mercy and Truth.
This is the word of truth witnessing in our heart, a spiritual space. Accordingly the cloud of witnesses are not merely any ornament one adds to his person to add dignity or honor but the truth: Mercy and truth are met together.
"Righteousness and peace have kissed each other."
We received Jesus by faith and we confess that he is in us. If we hate our brother as the word of God says that we are in darkness. And we made him a liar. "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:"(1 Co.1:30; 1 John 2:9-11) We are called to be as was in heaven, Righteoussness of God and Christ, who of us is peace so when we keep peace between brethren Christ is in our midst. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."(Matt.18:19-20)
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. ( Colossians 3:23-24).
These two verses demonstrate to us that work in the secular or "spiritual" realm is to be done with all of our might (following the principal of Ecclesiastes 9:10). Christ actually states that in some cases such as John 4:38 that they have reaped what others have sown. John 4 discusses the conversion of the Samaritan woman (woman at the well) and her evangelistic campaign. In this case she did the sowing and the Disciples reaped the benefits. It is interesting to think that she was the first evangelist listed even before the Disciples were sent out two by two (I think). Even Jesus didn't have to work that hard in that respect; such gratitude for being saved by sins was shown in other women such as Mary Magdeline. Would we all approach the Great Commission with such eagerness.
When it comes to our everyday jobs I am grateful in my situation even with just part time work being all that I can do with other responsibilities that I am surrounded by people that work hard. I work doing food prep in a high school kitchen; and especially with intense State Inspection coming those who would want to mess about won't remain very long. Having supervisors that I respect in each of the other surrounding schools in the District where we are sent on occasion is an added bonus; along with the lady from one of them that joined our team today. There are a number of passages discussing employer and employee relations (in many cases servant and master analogy). Our work ethic isn't a substitute for sharing God's Word; but an opportune moment won't earn any respect if we don't have a foundation of trusted service for the weeks or months before such a conversation can occur.
"So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses."
The Lord of the servant in the parable showed compassion as blessings of God come down from the greater to the lesser. Compassion as a facet of holiness of God is another manner love is irradiated as the cut diamond throws up several colors each from one single source of light. God as the Father of lights manifested so Jesus Christ is the true Light is the prism that provides us the glory of God into our individual spiritual space. The servant who hid his one talent did not detract from the glory but proved he was worthy of damnation.
The rich man 'clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day' that was very well and good as far as the intrinsic value of a talent goes, but the sin crept in when he shut off Lazarus from his sights, and he denied the Spirit of life that bound him came from the same God who gave life as a blessing. In denying his presence was an insult to His holiness. He was no better than the Rich Fool in the parable. "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." (Jas.4:17)
Coming back to the Parable the egregious blunder of the unforgiving servant was that he shut out the inestimable riches the Lord held in reserve. "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him."(1 Co.2:9). The Lord showed pity on him because of his flesh. The Spirit of life nevertheless was the power with which he could have mountains in his service. No his eye was all focused on a paltry debt. (1 Co.4:7-9) "not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another./ For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory"
"Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Unity is achieved by the everlasting gospel and it is one aspect of the Advent of the Son. "Mercy and truth are met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; And our land shall yield her increase."(Ps.85:10-13)
Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ which according to the scriptures was like a dry plant, "For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground." (Is.53:2). While we look at the cloud of witnesses their place in heaven is a constant reminder that God as the Husbandman ( John 15:1) is ever provident that 'our land' shall yield her increase. This land is not the dry ground Prophet Isaiah mentioned in the above mentioned quote. The ground was cursed because of sin and it required correction. The land that abides forever is special, soil is well prepared from which truth shall ever spring to heavenwards. This soil is what the heart signifies, and it is a spiritual space. The word of God has created it totally new so when the word of God speaks, "That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world,"(Ph.2:15) it is to be understood as the Garden of Eden, our earthly tabernacle.
The voice of the Lord does a miracle with the heart that is right before him."The voice of the Lord maketh the hinds to calve, and discovereth the forests: and in his temple doth every one speak of his glory."(Ps.29:9).
As mentioned above there is a cloud of witnesses from heaven and also a building of God, "An house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." As associates of Christ our power comes from this unity.
Tina, I am glad you came to us here for prayer. We join you in your outcry to God and in the truth that He who began this good work in you will bring it to His desired completion. May you remain steadfast in your faith and trust in God this day and every day going forward.
"And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them." Jesus assured "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live"( John 11:25). Three days and an half gives us the assurance that the two witnesses were a sign, that the spirit of life that raised the Son from death worked in their case as well. So vv.9-10 explain in what sense we need interpret, "the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves."(v.9) . They are witnesses even in their death that not a jot or iota from the Law shall be changed.
" And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand."(v.13)
At the same hour is a tag to the day of judgment that shall follow. Ten indicates judgment and 7x1000 determines it is decreed from heaven.
"And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city," Martyrdom of two witnesses lying in the street is a sign. We have Jesus telling his disciples how to respond to the cities where they were not received. "And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet./Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city."(Matt.10:14-15). When Jesus concludes his 'woe to ye' indictment he says,"Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." (Matt.23:38). This was a sure indication that the house was not worthy since they had rejected the prince of peace. "And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you." Israel shall never be at rest till they receive him, "For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."(23:39). The two witnesses lying in the street of the great city is to be spiritually understood. They serve as a sign of doom of disasters that shall visit upon them. The names of cities are interchangeable. The stone that angel cast down signals the fall of Babylon (Re.18:21) and it could be applied to all cities of the world.
The sign of his coming is sure of the day of judgment for these cities. "For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities./Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works."(Re.18:5-6) We see it even now. 'Globalism' was the watchword of nations living deliciously and' Greed is good was their mantra. Now it is dead. The beast who shall appear is part of long line of powers- that-be and they shall do evil. " And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition."(17:11)
Take this to the Lord in prayer so that your instincts may be guided by the Holy spirit alone, then you will know what choice is best for you and your sister. I will pray for you.
Dear heavenly Father, we ask of you in the name of Jesus guidance for John as he considers this offer from his siter to move to Hawaii or to remain here. Give John clarity as to what You desire for him to choose in this matter. Also, guide his sister in Hawaii as to what is best so that there will be agreement between her and John. Fill the needs of both John and his sister so that the decision made will truly be of you and not of themselves. Amen.
The kingdom entrusted to Jesus was not of this world. "Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence." ( John 18:36). God made angels spirits and ministers flaming fire, which Elisha could see for which faith is required. Instead what does the false prophet do? "And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men." The source for this elsewhere and like the magicians in the court of Pharaoh resisted Moses and God. Similarly the beast wields people power while the anti-Christ spoke as the dragon would, "And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon." (Re.13:11,13)
With this background the early church had to contend with the Jews, "Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie."(Re.3:9) Herod had spawned a political movement. Authority of Herod was as with the beast came from Satan. "And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months." 42 months include such temporal powers, each one resisting God. Nationalism of the Idumaean line was propped up by Imperial Rome. And is it of any surprise when Christianity became the official religion, and absorbed the culture of the Church of Rome,- Christian nationalism and culture wars are tares planted by the enemy.
"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."(12:11) The two witnesses, 'loved not their lives unto the death'. Jesus assures, " For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."(Matt.16:25)
"The beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them."
First point to note is that the beast is a composite figure as the two witnesses represent the saints to whom Jesus Christ gave power according to the promise of God, and are called and blessed in his Son.. "The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies."(Ps.110:2) These enemies on the earth are caused by 'the war in heaven.'(Re.12:7). And the consequence of it we read in v.12. "Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time."
This short time is clearly set by the Spirit even as the earthly ministry of Jesus and of the two witnesses. 42 is a number designated by God so the time of the Gentiles or heathen is likewise determined. John was sent as a messenger who was killed by the sword. Herod Antipas, it must be stressed was a vassal king to Caligula as another Herod, Herod Agrippa would have James killed. One killed because of his oath and the other killed James because he wanted to please the crowd. in whichever case the beast is associated with qualities totally antithetical to Jesus. The beast rising out of the sea (Re.13:1) is from below the earth as Jesus is from heaven. He is the king," The Lord sitteth upon the flood."(Ps.29:10) What is the characteristic of the sea? The beast represent the wicked," But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt."(Is.57:20). While we have the likes of Herod whose power is derived from some one else as enemies to Christ, the two witnesses represent an angel a man so the golden reed is their measurement and signify the everlasting gospel entrusted to them. Herod also gave rise to a political movement in the days of Jesus. (Matt.22:15-16)
The '1260 days' is a tag supplied the Spirit to indicate the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. By the same token the Gentiles are allowed to operate for 42 months. The 42 months' similarly is a tag. In an earlier post we saw 'the hour" during which the power of darkness prevailing over the children of disobedience. ( Luke 22:53). The beast as well as the enemies to Jesus who took him in the night belonged to the son of perdition. Judas Iscariot belonged to this group. This conflict reveals two laws, of the Spirit and of the sin.
Let us look at the characteristics of the two witnesses. They are representatives of several prophets coming under the earthly ministry of Jesus who is the fulfillment of the law. They were "clothed in sackcloth'. It echoes the mourning of Daniel for three weeks,"(Dan.10:2-3)
"And have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will." This recalls to us the seven plagues of Egypt" and of Elijah, "These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy." In short these two witnesses present a composite picture of heroes of faith(He.11:33-38)
On the flip side the number 42 months gives the beast who is a composite figure. John the Baptist was beheaded under a Herod and we have the beast in the Acts of the Apostles, "Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church./And he killed James the brother of John with the sword./And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also."(Ac.12:1-3)
Finally " Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein." This temple is not anything extant but what was founded on Zion. (1s.28:16) We see its culmination in Re.21.22-23
And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it./... for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof."
"And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth."(11:3)
Who is the authority to confer power on men but the Lord from heaven, who is heavenly? "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." The risen Christ in his humanity was the Word become flesh, so his authority stretched from Alpha the beginning. In his Ascension he was to be seated on the right hand of the Most High so Omega aspect, the ending referred to fulfilling the divine Will of his Father. " Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power"(Ps.110:1-3). Firstly the two witnesses belong to 'thy people'. These were given to the Son. "and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are."( John 17:11)
The chapter began with a golden reed and the angel directing John what to leave out and what to include requires attention. "for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months." This reed is a single measurement. "And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel."(Re.21:17) Gold signifies faith and here single measurement is of the angel,- the fellow-servant of John and of the man to whom the Son has given authority. Power of the little ones and their angels positioned to behold the face of the Father always defines the golden reed. Every other scale is false.
Prophesy is another feature and the two witnesses would do it for "a thousand two hundred and threescore days. "For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John."(Matt.11:11)
The days is a tag supplied the Spirit to indicate the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ. By the same token the Gentiles are allowed to operate for 42 months. This conflict reveals two laws, of the Spirit and of the sin.
Let us consider our use of sarcasm as individuals. Does your sarcastic remarks promote was is spoken of in these passages or do they work counter to the objective of these passages?
Eph. 4:1-3
"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of your vocation wherewith ye are called, with lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Does one's sarcasm promote unity or divide, peace or disturbance in relationship?
Is the sarcasm proceed from lowliness and meekness or does it proceed from pridefulness and self-elevation over another?
Does the sarcasm come forth from longsuffering or is it reactive, a "come back at ya", response? Is it winsome in its intent and effect entreating the other to holy fellowship? Does it show forbearance with another in love or is it" touchy" and self-serving?
Eph. 4:29
"Let no corrupt (unholy) communication proceed from your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."
Is one's sarcasm holy or unholy speech? Does it honor God and respect the person spoken to? Does it build up or tear down the hearer? Does it hurt or heal the hearer? Does it promote equalness in the relationship or does it inflate the speaker to the detriment of the hearer? Does it seek to be cooperative rather than competitive (getting to "one-up" another or win in a discussion)?
Eph. 5:4
"..Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient, but rather of giving of thanks."
Is one's sarcasm sober and mindful or foolish talking? Does it make fun of another or "jest" in a way that the other person doesn't like? Are you really "just Kidding, joking, or being humorous" in a mutually humorous and receptive conversation or does the sarcasm come from irritation, anger, or wanting to get at the hearer to put them down or shut them up?
cont.
I'm still studying on our other discussion but I did want to say my sarcasm was meant to make a point. I still haven't heard from Chris that I offended him, as far as I know. I agree with most of what you said. If sarcasm is done in a way that is displeasing to God it shouldn't be done. The sarcasm should be apologized for and the believer should ask God for forgiveness for hurting the other person and to help him to overcome using sarcasm in a hurtful way. God Bless :)
In your post to Chris you did make more than one small sarcastic remark. You even disparaged God in it.
I was not lying in wait for you to error so I could point out your sin. But your remarks prompted me to enter the conversation. I was not angry with you, just sad that you said what you did in a conversation that was centered on whether one can come to the point of being sinless in this lie, as you asserted about yourself. In speaking sarcastically as you did, you were not merely making a point to support your position or to show the error of Chris' view, in my opinion.
I am sorry that you have made the choice to eliminate conversation with some of us here. That is sad to me. I thought you considered me a friend, and I value that. But friends should be able to be honest in gentle ways for the purpose of helping one another, even if it involves showing where we sin against one another.
I hope that you will change your mind and also remember that if you post on this forum, anyone can reply to what you say, so even if you do not wish to speak to me or Adam or Chris, we are free to speak to what you post here. I pray that
God will bring healing and restoration between us as well as help us all to be open when someone identifies sin in what we say here, as I did in your case. The best thing you can do is examine yourself before God and confess yourself a sinner before Him as I and most on here do when we realize that we have sinned, even though our "new man" does not want to sin, as Paul says so well in Romans 7.
But then the matter of 'what then is sin'? I think most would agree that it is much more than violating the Ten Commandments, even as our Lord pointed His hearers to their own hearts to correctly understand this subject. But when it comes down to those regrettable things that arise within us which are not specifically addressed in the Word, we may find license to overlook them & treat them as not sinful, merely aberrations arising from the flesh. So, it may boil down to, 'what is sinful to some, may not be to others' (at least, until all are truly led of the Spirit to recognize sin for what sin is, or to those particularly sensitive to any deviation from the holy, to re-examine their beliefs by the Spirit's Guidance). And I too, have had to re-read my comments here, not only for clearly conveying my thoughts, but also to see whether my words could be hurtful or misunderstood, words arising from a mind overly passionate about the subject. I guess that I have failed in this as well at times. Blessings.
We do need to guard that our passion for a topic or doctrine not override our release of loving words seated in truth and grace.
I can tell by your writings that you do approach your responses with consideration for the one who will read them and to whom you are replying to. You are a good example on this forum and I do appreciate your demeanor and the gentle way you address conflicting views.