Isaiah 52:14 states: As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men...
Whenever we question suffering and why it needs to be on this earth today; the ultimate question may be why did God's Son have to suffer beyond any other in creation? Again; the physical death would have been nothing compared to the sweat of drops of blood considering His upcoming separation from the Father and taking on our sins onto Himself. This atonement is perhaps the biggest reason suffering needs be; it all began with the fall of man and it's ripple effect in all Creation but God in His infinite wisdom knew that this atonement needed to happen to restore all things to Himself ( Acts 3:21).
One could; of course look at all of human history as one would view a screen play; full of drama; pathos and various characters of antagonist or protagonist leanings. This helps us to examine God's overall "emotions" (again reducing things to a human level to comprehend characteristics of the Godhead). If we were to examine our free will in the midst of this it could be crudely compared to a rogue actor doing some unscripted scene which is confined to the small time allotted for the play to act itself out.
This shows how we as humans cannot ultimately change the course of predetermined events; but also that we are not robots ourselves who are always bound to the same script but all have individual roles to play and also how all of us are interconnected to each other. This results in all who are His own on "stage right" as it were and the rest on "stage left". Proverbs 3:6 says in all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your steps (I believe that is one translation).
When we look to the Apostle Paul's declaration that the sufferings of the present time are nothing compared to the glory to come ( Romans 8:18) we see that the joys of heaven will therefore be so much the greater after the harvest from today's brief trials
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
Isaiah 52:14 "His visage was so marred more than any man; and His form more than any sons of men."
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
And make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss.
The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life -
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything,
No gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer;
But this I know with all my heart -
His wounds have paid my ransom.
(Steward Townend)
I don't think I can add much to these lyrics. Let us all pray for MORE music of this calibre (this was written in 1995). There are only a few I can think of today which are this scripturally saturated; and this meaningful; in SHORT; worthy of TRUE worship of the Lord; Master and King of Glory.
I am sure there will be other responses here. This is what is often either ignored or deliberately avoided in Jewish communities; as the whole chapter is prophetic in regard to the crucifixion of Christ centuries later. Verse 53:3 shows that He was a man of sorrows; despised and rejected. This and so many other verses show how Christ was not revered for being God in the flesh; but often was revered for all the wrong reasons. Isaiah 52:14 in the previous chapter shows that He was marred beyond belief; so to speak. This was the ultimate expression of love; but love for His enemies and showed the cost of that committment. When Christ was followed He often had to weed those out looking for a free meal ( John 6:26-35); or those trying to justify themselves ( Luke 10:29). Those who wanted to follow Him often had loyalties more to money or family ties; and many if not most regarded Him as a Prophet or a great teacher ( Matt. 13:16-20). These verses indicate how only God can reveal that Christ is indeed; the "I AM" or God in the flesh (see also John 8:58). Such comments; no doubt would bring upon a reaction of madness from the Pharisees and others who could not accept this saying despite the prophecies such as in this book.
Verses 10 through 12 give us some indication of Christ's exaltation coming in the Millennial reign after we come back with Him to rule and reign from heaven. This will bring to fruition many other prophecies not yet fulfilled (such as Isaiah 61:2). This time delineation explains why Jesus only read the first verse in that chapter in Luke 4:18.
There will be complete fulfillment of all prophecies not yet complete after He returns to earth. Genesis 3:15 shows the first Messianic prophecy about Christ's wounds on His hands and feet which will always be present as a reminder; as well as Satan's ultimate defeat.
The church beyond five senses: the spiritual realm (cont)
Continuing the thought of the invisible realm (see John 20:29); we begin to understand the promises of God's protection of His saints ( Psalm 91:11; Isaiah 52:12) through the angels; we see how to correctly "bind and loose" ( Matt. 16:19); how to align more closely to what Christ is interceding in our behalf in seeking His will ( Heb. 7:25); and of course see those in bondage loosed from Satan's grip ( Luke 4:18-19) taken from Isaiah 61:1.
Those who love Him keep His commandments ( John 14:21) and originally found in Deuteronomy 7:9. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10 but found many other places in scripture).
For a case study; let us examine 1 Corinthians 14:22-25 where we have tongues and prophecy as applying to unbelievers in one verse then switch to believers in the next verses. This means that evidence of the power of God needs to be present AND a clear message relatable to the sinner or saint present given. In reality there cannot be a supernatural manifestation of the Spirit WITHOUT a piercing of the soul ( Hebrews 4:12) that is of course accompanied by the Gospel as the rest of the verse indicates. It also shows how a church must be corrected as He chastises all His own (found further on in Hebrews 12 verse 6).
The fact that some spiritual activity is occuring isn't evidence that God is at work; it could be demons. The fact that this was still a place where His Spirit was at work was evident in the fact that Paul's severe discipline had results; and that right quick (as the Brits like to say). This is clear from chapter 7 of 2 Corinthians. As I started off this discourse; I mentioned the Ephesians. They were threatened with total removal of their candlestick in Revelation 2. Therefore; being dead would be worse than immature; even with all the correct doctrines and outer actions; ceremonies; etc.
being saved and being born again are two completely different things.
romans 6:23 the wages of sin is death, the "gift" of god is eternal life through (the resurrection) of jesus christ.
jesus and all mankind died on the cross of passover, because jesus was raise from the dead; by the spirit of his father, death has passed over all mankind.
1 corinthians 15:22 as in adam all die, even so in christ (by his resurrection) shall all me made alive.
this happen 2000 years ago, yet man want believe god's word; mankind was saved from death by christ's resurrection, 2000 years ago: god's "gift" by the resurrection of christ.
salvation from death; has nothing to do with your works, it was given to you before your were even born: humble yourself before god.
isaiah 52:5 ...my name is continually ever day blasphemed.
my people; by that resurrection, you and christ together were made one: you were bonded; married to christ, a new creation, your the body in the marriage, christ is the life of that marriage.
philippians 2:13 for it is god "his life" that worketh in you "his body" both to will and to do his good pleasure.
by that resurrection you were married to christ: you now bear his name.
acts 2:38 "repent" ( of your false beliefs), and be ye baptised in the name of jesus.
revelation 3:12 ...and i will write upon him (my wife) my name ....
matthew 22:14 many "all" are called (to be save from death: the "gift" of god), few are chosen (to be judges) in the kingdom of god.
those born again by the word's of god, will be judges; on the earth, when christ subdues all under him: the kingdom of god.
1 peter 1:23 being born again, not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible seed, by the word of god, which liveth and abideth forever.
Hi Angela. I wouldn't agree with your question, "why are certain books removed from the Bible?" May I assume that you're referring to what are termed as 'apocryphal books'? Or, are you finding that some books that are in the recognized canon of Scripture have been deliberately removed?
I can't answer to the latter, but to the former, there were very many books, manuscripts & other writings around throughout history, and particularly in the inter-testamental period (i.e. after Malachi's prophecy & the entrance of Jesus Christ at Bethlehem). Some of these writings were known to the Jews, but ultimately they only accepted the Word revealed through Moses (i.e. the Torah: the five Books of Moses); the Nevi'im (or, the Prophets), and the Ketuvim (or, the Writings). And within those broad divisions, we get our Bible (i.e. the same books as in the Tanakh (the Jewish Bible), but variations in order of appearance, & other minor changes).
So, the Jews rejected the apocrypha & other spurious writings as being the Word of God, from God, & likewise, when the NT Canon was brought together, similar rules were applied, where authors, textual examination, falsehoods, etc., were reasons for post-New Testament writings being rejected. Now some Churches, e.g. the Roman Catholic & orthodox, do accept the apocryphal books as valid, but in mainstream Christianity, we believe that what we have now is God's Word, and that to fully accept these other writings, severely prejudice the Truth, as revealed to us.
I can't give you all the errors in these books, but if you look at a couple: Tobit 12:9 (speaks of almsgiving purging sin & saves from death). 2 Maccabees 12:41-45 (place of purgatory & a monetary sin offering). Just these two references go against the teaching of Scripture. Of course, there are truths written in these books, but the evidence of errors therein, should cause us to be very wary & alert.
I can't answer your second question - depends on which Fellowship you attend.
Fierce opposition may be something in this country that we are not normally accustomed to but one has to ask why in light of 2 Timothy 3:12-17; John 15:18-21; 2 Corinthians 11:26 etc.
Perhaps I made this statement earlier in the Psalms discussion; but we need to distinguish between unconditional love and the fact that "enemies" still exist. Romans 5:10 and apparently 29 other verses show that indeed we all are enemies of God prior to our conversion; hence all unregenerate remain in that state.
There is something to be said for the O.T. times when the mindset was more "an eye for an eye"( Exodus 21:24). In terms of today; Christ demonstrated no personal condemnation for a particular individual; but He certainly spent chapters excoriating the Pharisees and others which caused multiple attempts at His life along the constant persecution.
Again as I stated in other Psalms regarding David's multiple hiding periods from Saul he showed respect for him by preserving his life multiple times when he could have ended it; and also he mourned over his death when the Lord finally made Saul reap what he sowed. When someone tries to kill you 21 times as Saul was said to do (not to mention other enemies of his); then we can understand a desire to see justice. Christ alluded to judgment with unbelief among the places that had seen mighty works such as Matthew 11:21 (the "woe to you" term was also used with the Pharisees).
Individual judgment to come or the fate of nations is not something we should gloss over. We as watchmen are responsible to sound the alarm ( Isaiah 52:8 and other verses in Jeremiah; etc). In evangelism warning of a national fate seems to be generally disregarded as opposed to warning individuals as to the wrath to come. I can't see studying how Christ preached that it can be ignored. We can study scripture and history to see how Isaiah and Jeremiah for instance were martyred for such messages.
Hello Takako. Actually, from Isaiah 52:13-15 to Isaiah 53:1-12 (from the Old Testament), are prophecies about One coming Who would find fulfilment in the Person of Jesus Christ & the suffering He had to endure to make payment for our sins. Isaiah didn't know His Name - only what God revealed to Him in this Word given to him.
So yes, Isaiah 53:3 does show how Christ, in the New Testament accounts, was rejected by so many, when He had so much love for people, even to those who hated Him. Yet that love did not cause Him to turn away from such a shameful agonizing death. He knew that only if He died would mankind have any hope to live as God intended.
Paul starts off 2 Corinthians by saying "having therefore these promises." What promises? These are promises at the end of Chapter 6. We see in Leviticus 26:12, Isaiah 52:11, and 2 Samuel 7:14, that the promise that God said I will come and I will dwell in you, and I will be your Father, and you will be my children. I will be your God and you will be my people.
Having these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit.
Now these are not technical terms (flesh and spirit). He's talking about realm. Don't pollute by getting involved in the spiritual forces of darkness. There's a spiritual influence over you, and don't get involved in those physical human fleshly things that war against the things of Christ. Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness, that is, contamination of flesh and spirit.
Secondly: perfecting holiness in the fear of God. The word holiness is the word sanctification. He says you've been sanctified. You've been set apart for Christ. And we keep trying in the human social to cross the line and be socially joined and get our social needs met.
But at the same time, Paul is saying that you cannot compromise your walk with the Lord by getting involved in situations and with people that are going to influence your relationship with Christ and affect your effectiveness in your walk with Christ.
So, he says the key here is you've been set apart. God has set you apart. His promise is that He's going to be with you and dwell with you. And He is going to be your God and you are going to be His people. Therefore, perfect, (mature) the sanctification. We are sanctified the very moment that God's Spirit comes into our spirit. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul told the Christians in Thessalonica to walk in your sanctification.
It seems too obvious; I suppose to ask on a forum like this if you have faith in Christ and His atoning death and have confessed it to God and to men. This is the only way to truly receive and understand "agape" or unconditional love at the deepest level. I suppose the best example of an idolatrous culture is the Corinthians. There were clear moral lapses; to put it mildly there at all levels from illicit relationships; greed; pride and other vices. Paul was able to get them straightened out fairly quickly through rebuke from such a Godly concern as a parent.
I narrowly escaped being molested by a high school friend of mine. That was 40 years ago; and I found out recently that he passed away of bone cancer a number of years ago. I was also mentally abused as a child; and physically assaulted a couple of times; as well as had a lot of money and possessions stolen. Also went through a divorce with someone who claimed to be a Christian and married her lover. I was able at least to tell my dad that I loved him; and now am taking care of my parents in their advanced years while living at home.
I mention all this to say that I found through Christian counselling; prayer was perhaps the best antidote. Also; after a lot of angst during my marriage; I was given a study in the Book of James on how to be self controlled through proper spiritual disciplines; and although my life is far from perfect; the anger which would have me punch fists into walls hasn't caused me to flip out in say 10 years since I have been living on my own. The Lord has been faithful in providing me with solid fellowship; both in the past and now.
In terms of thoughts we have to realize that if we are saved; the enemy often infiltrates our minds; and we need to be able to shut him down; realizing that they often don't originate with us. He has promised to be our "front guard and rear guard" ( Isaiah 52:12; also see Psalm 91. Perfect love casts out fear ( 1 John 4:18).
God doesn't need possessions as we understand it, 'having or owning things' that are necessary for our survival or happiness. In Psalm 50:10, God says: "For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." God owns all things He has created, even the special called-out people (first Israel, then those who've come to faith in Christ) & also that special city Jerusalem (Zion). Psalm 87:2-3 says, "The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God." According to this verse, Zion is synonymous with City of God, and it is a place that God loves. Zion is Jerusalem.
Zion is first mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:7. Zion was originally an ancient Jebusite fortress in the city of Jerusalem. After David's conquest of the fortress, Jerusalem became a possession of Israel. The royal palace was built there, and Zion/Jerusalem became the seat of power in Israel's kingdom. When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, the meaning of Zion included the temple area ( Psalm 2:6; Psalm 48:2,11,12; Psalm 132:13). Therefore, the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:6, "Arise ye, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God."
Zion is also used in a spiritual sense in Scripture. In the Old Testament, Zion refers figuratively to Israel as the people of God ( Isaiah 60:14). In the New Testament, Zion refers to God's spiritual kingdom: Hebrews 12:22. Peter, quoting Isaiah 28:16, refers to Christ as the Cornerstone of Zion ( 1 Peter 2:6).
Mount Zion, as a geographical area, is now the focus of much dispute (mainly between Jews & Muslims). The Bible is clear that one day Zion will be the sole possession of the Lord Jesus, and Zion, both the nation and the city, will be restored. ( Isaiah 52:1; Isaiah 60:14). When Jesus returns to Earth, His rule will be from Jerusalem ( Zechariah 14:1-4; Luke 1:32,33). I hope you can see why Zion is so important & especially significant in God's Eyes as a special City of God (on Earth).
Hi Gail. Just as a quick background first: Isaiah chapters 49 to 57 are chapters which speak of the coming salvation through God's Servant-Messiah. As much as we see that Israel is spoken of, the intent of the message therein, is to show that it would only be through Israel that their Messiah would be revealed. We know that Israel as a nation always failed God in many ways, but God had not forsaken her, for through her would the Salvation of Israel & the World come. Many Jews (though not all) have recognized that the Messiah is spoken of here in Isaiah, particularly when you get to Isaiah 52:13 to Isaiah 53:1-12, but when the Messiah did come to them, they failed to recognize Him & killed Him. But death could not hold Him: His apostles would be spiritually energized to take the Good News to the world, especially the latterly converted Saul, that the World may have a chance to hear & receive God's Plan for forgiveness & redemption.
So when the Apostle Paul refers to Isaiah 49:8, he understood the general principle in Isaiah that the Messiah God would be willing to hear their cries for help - that His Mercy would come to Israel, as well to the Gentiles. And though Israel couldn't perceive who this Messiah would be, it was God Himself (the Redeemer of Israel: v7) through His Son, that would bring about a full salvation for all. So Paul could say, "that God was in Christ (the Messiah God), reconciling the world unto himself..."( 2 Corinthians 5:19) and begging the Corinthian believers that "ye receive not the grace of God in vain"; since Isaiah himself prophesied that God's day of salvation had now come & you Corinthians were blessed to receive it ( 2 Corinthians 6:1,2). Therefore, they should accept Paul's work on their behalf & to refuse sin, not allowing it into their lives & the Church, knowing, "the terror of the Lord" against all doers of evil ( 2 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
Rose I prayed and ask God to allow me to be a help to you,, there is no need to break any curse because Jesus Broke Every Curse that mattered on Calvary when He said "It is Finished",, i myself have had times when my faith has been shaken and i have heard of false teachers as well as false preaching, which claims that if you ever doubt your salvation,, you are lost. This is simply Not true, to me the best test of a True Believer is this ,,, "A TRUE BELIEVER WILL NEVER DENY THAT ONLY THROUGH CHRIST BLOOD CAN THEY BE SAVED",, so Rose i hope you ask God to give you final peace, not based on what any man told you but what You Truly Believe in your heart, the dying thief believed and was saved,, Only Believe, That Jesus is and is a rewarder of those who Believes in Him.
Hello Rose, Like Suze, I do not think the Scriptures support "generational curses". We suffer from the decisions made by our predecessors or there can be genetic predispositions or familial tendencies passed down. These are not curses, but results of our fallenness.
When we come to Christ and are converted, the Holy Spirit makes us a new creation in Christ. So, we are no longer enslaved by any off these things that are inherited or passed on by family example. We can have victory over them through the work of the Holy Spirit in us. For some people, they have instant deliverance. For others, one needs to persevere in prayer, faith, and walking by the Spirit.
Some things that are genetically inherited that are medical in nature may be with us all of our life. But we have the hope of the next life where these things will be totally eradicated from our beings.
Suze, I agree with you. I do not believe in generational curses either.
We do suffer from the decisions made from our predecessors and there can be hereditary tendencies or illnesses passed on through families genetically or by upbringing and example. But these are not curses. This is fallenness.
When we admit to ourselves and to others that we are not in control of our lives or the lives of others. We must turn every aspect of our life over to him. To trust only in him. This is hard because our Ego and Ego of others will want to stand in the way of him. Our Ego says there is no God. Our Ego says God does not love or care for us. Our Ego is like the serpent that temps us to do bad things to ourselves and others. Be of good cheer and know God wants you to trust in Him because he truly does love you and wants a loving personal relationship with you.
Jesus said, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." ( John 15:7) "whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." ( Mark 11:23-24)
After my salvation, the Holy Spirit had me clear out my house of any item I had that had anything to do with occult. I had to burn them. Acts 19:19. I cannot express the change in my house the next day. Peace.
Ask the Holy Spirit to go through your house with you.
Confront the past, and just let it all go. Ask God for an angel to guard your house for a while. Your life now is hidden within Christ. He is yours; you are his. Song of Solomon. "I am My Beloveds__My Beloved is Mine".
As a Christian of many years , I don't believe in curses . You can curse me all you like it won't work ! It's all psychological bunkum designed to freak you out . If you had read and understood the Bible you would know that if you belong to God you need not fear anything or anyone other than God Himself . Please , read your Bible and listen to it and not to people who are of no consequence .
May I suggest you reflect on Romans 10:9-13, Ephesians 2:8-9, Philippians 2:12-13.
Please consider praying this prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ I declare you are my Savior! I renounce any involvement in the world of darkness. I cancel every curse and ask you to forgive those who spoke them against me. I proclaim liberty from every generational curse that existed in my bloodline. I repent for opening doors to Satan. I repent for any of my family sins. I declare every generational curse is made void by the Blood of Jesus Christ. I command every generational curse that has manifests itself as sickness, depression, failed marriages, poverty, confused identity, addictions or shady behaviors to be uprooted and broken off me and my family, in Jesus name. Thank you God for setting me free from every curse in Jesus Christ name!!
I'm a born again Christian for a few years now. I'm still try to understand salvation, and I need help. How do I break generational curses? I get dreams of setback all the time. Thank you and God bless you
I believe the Lord hardened Pharoahs heart bringing out what was in him. In Acts 7:18. Stephen states "Till ANOTHER king arose, which knew not Joseph." I've heard the word another being used here suggests a different type in the Greek. There is 2 words used for "another" in the Greek. One is when you want another of the same and the other is one of a different kind. the second is used here. This Pharoah might have been an Assyrian.
Isaiah 52:4. For thus saith the Lord GOD, My people went down aforetime into Egypt to sojourn there; and the ASSYRIAN oppressed them without cause.
God Magnified his Great name YHWH in Egypt and all the World feard the God of Israel as he will do again in the latter days.
Ezekiel 38:22-23. And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.
Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD.
These words clearly indicate Christ's promises from the Father; hence Satan's attempt for Him to fall to temptation to break continual obedience at the end of the 40 days of fasting in the wilderness ( Matthew 4:2 and following verses). Clearly, we have promises such as in verse 8 where we will only see the destruction of the wicked with our eyes and verse 7 where a thousand fall at our side; 10000 near you which could indicate those on earth at Armageddon or the battle for Jerusalem ( Zechariah 14) or our view of the judgments as they are cast to earth from heaven as seen in Revelation. We are also promised that God will go before us and be our rear guard ( Isaiah 52:12); and the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers him ( Psalm 34:7). Angels are ministering spirits; who have worked to free prisoners from jail in the case of Daniel in the lions den; and Peter in prison. When we are seated in heavenly places ( Eph. 2:6); hence He is our refuge ( Psalm 91:9). We do well to heed to the example of Christ; when he neared the end of His trial at His weakest point the enemy attacked. Patiently waiting until He was ministered to by angels afterward is a lesson to us to trust in Him (v. 2); and see that the Lord is good ( Psalm 34:8). We must endure to the end; but that is only in His strength. We remember that He is our High Priest; ever interceding for us ( Hebrews 7:25 and many other verses in that book).
Sometimes I feel we're on a 'need to know' basis: GOD reveals many things as we need to know. Sometimes I've wondered about something & right away GOD's given me the answers. Other times it was years. Sometimes I've read scripture then another time reading, something powerful is revealed that I hadn't noticed beforehand or the fact my circumstances have changed giving me deeper understanding. I will also pray you have deeper understanding. Philippians 1:6,
I would like to point out however the correlation between Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, & the Gospels Matthew Mark Luke & John are insightful to me understanding it to be prophetic. Isaiah 52:7-14,
Christ blood covers a multitude of sins: so why the thorn in the flesh, not considered covered as well; instead of holding any individual intresidant or accountable, until they meet face to face??? Where is the "Mercy Rule" to takeover; literally???
Whenever we question suffering and why it needs to be on this earth today; the ultimate question may be why did God's Son have to suffer beyond any other in creation? Again; the physical death would have been nothing compared to the sweat of drops of blood considering His upcoming separation from the Father and taking on our sins onto Himself. This atonement is perhaps the biggest reason suffering needs be; it all began with the fall of man and it's ripple effect in all Creation but God in His infinite wisdom knew that this atonement needed to happen to restore all things to Himself ( Acts 3:21).
One could; of course look at all of human history as one would view a screen play; full of drama; pathos and various characters of antagonist or protagonist leanings. This helps us to examine God's overall "emotions" (again reducing things to a human level to comprehend characteristics of the Godhead). If we were to examine our free will in the midst of this it could be crudely compared to a rogue actor doing some unscripted scene which is confined to the small time allotted for the play to act itself out.
This shows how we as humans cannot ultimately change the course of predetermined events; but also that we are not robots ourselves who are always bound to the same script but all have individual roles to play and also how all of us are interconnected to each other. This results in all who are His own on "stage right" as it were and the rest on "stage left". Proverbs 3:6 says in all ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your steps (I believe that is one translation).
When we look to the Apostle Paul's declaration that the sufferings of the present time are nothing compared to the glory to come ( Romans 8:18) we see that the joys of heaven will therefore be so much the greater after the harvest from today's brief trials
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
How deep the Father's love for us,
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
And make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss.
The Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the chosen One
Bring many sons to glory.
Behold the man upon a cross,
My sin upon His shoulders;
Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life -
I know that it is finished.
I will not boast in anything,
No gifts, no power, no wisdom;
But I will boast in Jesus Christ,
His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer;
But this I know with all my heart -
His wounds have paid my ransom.
(Steward Townend)
I don't think I can add much to these lyrics. Let us all pray for MORE music of this calibre (this was written in 1995). There are only a few I can think of today which are this scripturally saturated; and this meaningful; in SHORT; worthy of TRUE worship of the Lord; Master and King of Glory.
Verses 10 through 12 give us some indication of Christ's exaltation coming in the Millennial reign after we come back with Him to rule and reign from heaven. This will bring to fruition many other prophecies not yet fulfilled (such as Isaiah 61:2). This time delineation explains why Jesus only read the first verse in that chapter in Luke 4:18.
There will be complete fulfillment of all prophecies not yet complete after He returns to earth. Genesis 3:15 shows the first Messianic prophecy about Christ's wounds on His hands and feet which will always be present as a reminder; as well as Satan's ultimate defeat.
Continuing the thought of the invisible realm (see John 20:29); we begin to understand the promises of God's protection of His saints ( Psalm 91:11; Isaiah 52:12) through the angels; we see how to correctly "bind and loose" ( Matt. 16:19); how to align more closely to what Christ is interceding in our behalf in seeking His will ( Heb. 7:25); and of course see those in bondage loosed from Satan's grip ( Luke 4:18-19) taken from Isaiah 61:1.
Those who love Him keep His commandments ( John 14:21) and originally found in Deuteronomy 7:9. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10 but found many other places in scripture).
For a case study; let us examine 1 Corinthians 14:22-25 where we have tongues and prophecy as applying to unbelievers in one verse then switch to believers in the next verses. This means that evidence of the power of God needs to be present AND a clear message relatable to the sinner or saint present given. In reality there cannot be a supernatural manifestation of the Spirit WITHOUT a piercing of the soul ( Hebrews 4:12) that is of course accompanied by the Gospel as the rest of the verse indicates. It also shows how a church must be corrected as He chastises all His own (found further on in Hebrews 12 verse 6).
The fact that some spiritual activity is occuring isn't evidence that God is at work; it could be demons. The fact that this was still a place where His Spirit was at work was evident in the fact that Paul's severe discipline had results; and that right quick (as the Brits like to say). This is clear from chapter 7 of 2 Corinthians. As I started off this discourse; I mentioned the Ephesians. They were threatened with total removal of their candlestick in Revelation 2. Therefore; being dead would be worse than immature; even with all the correct doctrines and outer actions; ceremonies; etc.
John 16:8 shows how the true Spirit of God works.
being saved and being born again are two completely different things.
romans 6:23 the wages of sin is death, the "gift" of god is eternal life through (the resurrection) of jesus christ.
jesus and all mankind died on the cross of passover, because jesus was raise from the dead; by the spirit of his father, death has passed over all mankind.
1 corinthians 15:22 as in adam all die, even so in christ (by his resurrection) shall all me made alive.
this happen 2000 years ago, yet man want believe god's word; mankind was saved from death by christ's resurrection, 2000 years ago: god's "gift" by the resurrection of christ.
salvation from death; has nothing to do with your works, it was given to you before your were even born: humble yourself before god.
isaiah 52:5 ...my name is continually ever day blasphemed.
my people; by that resurrection, you and christ together were made one: you were bonded; married to christ, a new creation, your the body in the marriage, christ is the life of that marriage.
philippians 2:13 for it is god "his life" that worketh in you "his body" both to will and to do his good pleasure.
by that resurrection you were married to christ: you now bear his name.
acts 2:38 "repent" ( of your false beliefs), and be ye baptised in the name of jesus.
revelation 3:12 ...and i will write upon him (my wife) my name ....
matthew 22:14 many "all" are called (to be save from death: the "gift" of god), few are chosen (to be judges) in the kingdom of god.
those born again by the word's of god, will be judges; on the earth, when christ subdues all under him: the kingdom of god.
1 peter 1:23 being born again, not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible seed, by the word of god, which liveth and abideth forever.
god word is truth and life, a kingdom.
god bless you!
I can't answer to the latter, but to the former, there were very many books, manuscripts & other writings around throughout history, and particularly in the inter-testamental period (i.e. after Malachi's prophecy & the entrance of Jesus Christ at Bethlehem). Some of these writings were known to the Jews, but ultimately they only accepted the Word revealed through Moses (i.e. the Torah: the five Books of Moses); the Nevi'im (or, the Prophets), and the Ketuvim (or, the Writings). And within those broad divisions, we get our Bible (i.e. the same books as in the Tanakh (the Jewish Bible), but variations in order of appearance, & other minor changes).
So, the Jews rejected the apocrypha & other spurious writings as being the Word of God, from God, & likewise, when the NT Canon was brought together, similar rules were applied, where authors, textual examination, falsehoods, etc., were reasons for post-New Testament writings being rejected. Now some Churches, e.g. the Roman Catholic & orthodox, do accept the apocryphal books as valid, but in mainstream Christianity, we believe that what we have now is God's Word, and that to fully accept these other writings, severely prejudice the Truth, as revealed to us.
I can't give you all the errors in these books, but if you look at a couple: Tobit 12:9 (speaks of almsgiving purging sin & saves from death). 2 Maccabees 12:41-45 (place of purgatory & a monetary sin offering). Just these two references go against the teaching of Scripture. Of course, there are truths written in these books, but the evidence of errors therein, should cause us to be very wary & alert.
I can't answer your second question - depends on which Fellowship you attend.
Fierce opposition may be something in this country that we are not normally accustomed to but one has to ask why in light of 2 Timothy 3:12-17; John 15:18-21; 2 Corinthians 11:26 etc.
Perhaps I made this statement earlier in the Psalms discussion; but we need to distinguish between unconditional love and the fact that "enemies" still exist. Romans 5:10 and apparently 29 other verses show that indeed we all are enemies of God prior to our conversion; hence all unregenerate remain in that state.
There is something to be said for the O.T. times when the mindset was more "an eye for an eye"( Exodus 21:24). In terms of today; Christ demonstrated no personal condemnation for a particular individual; but He certainly spent chapters excoriating the Pharisees and others which caused multiple attempts at His life along the constant persecution.
Again as I stated in other Psalms regarding David's multiple hiding periods from Saul he showed respect for him by preserving his life multiple times when he could have ended it; and also he mourned over his death when the Lord finally made Saul reap what he sowed. When someone tries to kill you 21 times as Saul was said to do (not to mention other enemies of his); then we can understand a desire to see justice. Christ alluded to judgment with unbelief among the places that had seen mighty works such as Matthew 11:21 (the "woe to you" term was also used with the Pharisees).
Individual judgment to come or the fate of nations is not something we should gloss over. We as watchmen are responsible to sound the alarm ( Isaiah 52:8 and other verses in Jeremiah; etc). In evangelism warning of a national fate seems to be generally disregarded as opposed to warning individuals as to the wrath to come. I can't see studying how Christ preached that it can be ignored. We can study scripture and history to see how Isaiah and Jeremiah for instance were martyred for such messages.
Let us preach truth in love.
So yes, Isaiah 53:3 does show how Christ, in the New Testament accounts, was rejected by so many, when He had so much love for people, even to those who hated Him. Yet that love did not cause Him to turn away from such a shameful agonizing death. He knew that only if He died would mankind have any hope to live as God intended.
(part 1)
Paul starts off 2 Corinthians by saying "having therefore these promises." What promises? These are promises at the end of Chapter 6. We see in Leviticus 26:12, Isaiah 52:11, and 2 Samuel 7:14, that the promise that God said I will come and I will dwell in you, and I will be your Father, and you will be my children. I will be your God and you will be my people.
Having these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit.
Now these are not technical terms (flesh and spirit). He's talking about realm. Don't pollute by getting involved in the spiritual forces of darkness. There's a spiritual influence over you, and don't get involved in those physical human fleshly things that war against the things of Christ. Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness, that is, contamination of flesh and spirit.
Secondly: perfecting holiness in the fear of God. The word holiness is the word sanctification. He says you've been sanctified. You've been set apart for Christ. And we keep trying in the human social to cross the line and be socially joined and get our social needs met.
But at the same time, Paul is saying that you cannot compromise your walk with the Lord by getting involved in situations and with people that are going to influence your relationship with Christ and affect your effectiveness in your walk with Christ.
So, he says the key here is you've been set apart. God has set you apart. His promise is that He's going to be with you and dwell with you. And He is going to be your God and you are going to be His people. Therefore, perfect, (mature) the sanctification. We are sanctified the very moment that God's Spirit comes into our spirit. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul told the Christians in Thessalonica to walk in your sanctification.
I narrowly escaped being molested by a high school friend of mine. That was 40 years ago; and I found out recently that he passed away of bone cancer a number of years ago. I was also mentally abused as a child; and physically assaulted a couple of times; as well as had a lot of money and possessions stolen. Also went through a divorce with someone who claimed to be a Christian and married her lover. I was able at least to tell my dad that I loved him; and now am taking care of my parents in their advanced years while living at home.
I mention all this to say that I found through Christian counselling; prayer was perhaps the best antidote. Also; after a lot of angst during my marriage; I was given a study in the Book of James on how to be self controlled through proper spiritual disciplines; and although my life is far from perfect; the anger which would have me punch fists into walls hasn't caused me to flip out in say 10 years since I have been living on my own. The Lord has been faithful in providing me with solid fellowship; both in the past and now.
In terms of thoughts we have to realize that if we are saved; the enemy often infiltrates our minds; and we need to be able to shut him down; realizing that they often don't originate with us. He has promised to be our "front guard and rear guard" ( Isaiah 52:12; also see Psalm 91. Perfect love casts out fear ( 1 John 4:18).
Zion is first mentioned in 2 Samuel 5:7. Zion was originally an ancient Jebusite fortress in the city of Jerusalem. After David's conquest of the fortress, Jerusalem became a possession of Israel. The royal palace was built there, and Zion/Jerusalem became the seat of power in Israel's kingdom. When Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, the meaning of Zion included the temple area ( Psalm 2:6; Psalm 48:2,11,12; Psalm 132:13). Therefore, the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:6, "Arise ye, and let us go up to Zion unto the LORD our God."
Zion is also used in a spiritual sense in Scripture. In the Old Testament, Zion refers figuratively to Israel as the people of God ( Isaiah 60:14). In the New Testament, Zion refers to God's spiritual kingdom: Hebrews 12:22. Peter, quoting Isaiah 28:16, refers to Christ as the Cornerstone of Zion ( 1 Peter 2:6).
Mount Zion, as a geographical area, is now the focus of much dispute (mainly between Jews & Muslims). The Bible is clear that one day Zion will be the sole possession of the Lord Jesus, and Zion, both the nation and the city, will be restored. ( Isaiah 52:1; Isaiah 60:14). When Jesus returns to Earth, His rule will be from Jerusalem ( Zechariah 14:1-4; Luke 1:32,33). I hope you can see why Zion is so important & especially significant in God's Eyes as a special City of God (on Earth).
So when the Apostle Paul refers to Isaiah 49:8, he understood the general principle in Isaiah that the Messiah God would be willing to hear their cries for help - that His Mercy would come to Israel, as well to the Gentiles. And though Israel couldn't perceive who this Messiah would be, it was God Himself (the Redeemer of Israel: v7) through His Son, that would bring about a full salvation for all. So Paul could say, "that God was in Christ (the Messiah God), reconciling the world unto himself..."( 2 Corinthians 5:19) and begging the Corinthian believers that "ye receive not the grace of God in vain"; since Isaiah himself prophesied that God's day of salvation had now come & you Corinthians were blessed to receive it ( 2 Corinthians 6:1,2). Therefore, they should accept Paul's work on their behalf & to refuse sin, not allowing it into their lives & the Church, knowing, "the terror of the Lord" against all doers of evil ( 2 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
When we come to Christ and are converted, the Holy Spirit makes us a new creation in Christ. So, we are no longer enslaved by any off these things that are inherited or passed on by family example. We can have victory over them through the work of the Holy Spirit in us. For some people, they have instant deliverance. For others, one needs to persevere in prayer, faith, and walking by the Spirit.
Some things that are genetically inherited that are medical in nature may be with us all of our life. But we have the hope of the next life where these things will be totally eradicated from our beings.
We do suffer from the decisions made from our predecessors and there can be hereditary tendencies or illnesses passed on through families genetically or by upbringing and example. But these are not curses. This is fallenness.
After my salvation, the Holy Spirit had me clear out my house of any item I had that had anything to do with occult. I had to burn them. Acts 19:19. I cannot express the change in my house the next day. Peace.
Ask the Holy Spirit to go through your house with you.
Confront the past, and just let it all go. Ask God for an angel to guard your house for a while. Your life now is hidden within Christ. He is yours; you are his. Song of Solomon. "I am My Beloveds__My Beloved is Mine".
Please consider praying this prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ I declare you are my Savior! I renounce any involvement in the world of darkness. I cancel every curse and ask you to forgive those who spoke them against me. I proclaim liberty from every generational curse that existed in my bloodline. I repent for opening doors to Satan. I repent for any of my family sins. I declare every generational curse is made void by the Blood of Jesus Christ. I command every generational curse that has manifests itself as sickness, depression, failed marriages, poverty, confused identity, addictions or shady behaviors to be uprooted and broken off me and my family, in Jesus name. Thank you God for setting me free from every curse in Jesus Christ name!!
I've heard it taught by Chuck Missler that this Pharoah may have not been an Egyptian.
Here's his reasoning.
Acts 7:18. Till "ANOTHER" king arose, which knew not Joseph.
There is two words for another in the Greek. allos and heteros.
allos means "one of the same."
heteros means "one of a different kind."
If you gave me a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and I asked for another/allos sandwich, you would give me another peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
If I asked for another/heteros sandwich, you would give me another but different sandwich, perhaps a turkey sandwich.
Stephen uses heteros in Acts 7:18. signaling the Pharoah was a different kind of Pharoah, perhaps not an Egyptian.
Perhaps an Assyrian.
Isaiah 52:4. For thus saith the Lord GOD, My people went down aforetime into Egypt to sojourn there; and the Assyrian oppressed them without cause.
The Assyrians was a brutal people. This is why Jonah didn't want to go to Nineveh. "The capital of Assyria."
Perhaps worthy of some research.
God bless.
I believe the Lord hardened Pharoahs heart bringing out what was in him. In Acts 7:18. Stephen states "Till ANOTHER king arose, which knew not Joseph." I've heard the word another being used here suggests a different type in the Greek. There is 2 words used for "another" in the Greek. One is when you want another of the same and the other is one of a different kind. the second is used here. This Pharoah might have been an Assyrian.
Isaiah 52:4. For thus saith the Lord GOD, My people went down aforetime into Egypt to sojourn there; and the ASSYRIAN oppressed them without cause.
God Magnified his Great name YHWH in Egypt and all the World feard the God of Israel as he will do again in the latter days.
Ezekiel 38:22-23. And I will plead against him with pestilence and with blood; and I will rain upon him, and upon his bands, and upon the many people that are with him, an overflowing rain, and great hailstones, fire, and brimstone.
Thus will I magnify myself, and sanctify myself; and I will be known in the eyes of many nations, and they shall know that I am the LORD.
Jeremiah 16:13-15.
Jeremiah 23:6-8.
Thank you and
God bless.
Sometimes I feel we're on a 'need to know' basis: GOD reveals many things as we need to know. Sometimes I've wondered about something & right away GOD's given me the answers. Other times it was years. Sometimes I've read scripture then another time reading, something powerful is revealed that I hadn't noticed beforehand or the fact my circumstances have changed giving me deeper understanding. I will also pray you have deeper understanding. Philippians 1:6,
I would like to point out however the correlation between Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, & the Gospels Matthew Mark Luke & John are insightful to me understanding it to be prophetic. Isaiah 52:7-14,
Hopefully this is helpful & encouraging.
2 Corinthians 4:17
Hebrews 11:25
James 5:10
Isaiah 48:10
Psalms 22:24
James 1:27
Hopefully these are helpful