Thank you for taking time to help me understand Isaiah 53:5.
Healing puts back in place something that is out of order. Healing fixes things. Jesus' purpose in the land of the living was to make us whole.
It seems that Jesus reassured people that came to him for healing that their sins would not hinder their healing if they believed. Isaiah 53:5 is referring to both body and soul. In one scripture , the devils knew the prophesy of Isaiah concerning him. Jesus not only heals the "sin-sick soul, (transgression, iniquities) but the mind, BODY and soul. (COVID, Cancer, AIDS, Heart
Trouble, High blood pressure, diabetes) I noticed that in many conversation with the sick, Jesus mentions "sin." He was connecting sickness and sin.
St. James also mentioned Elders of the Church in relations to prayers for healing "sickness. and "sin."
The words " the chastisement of our peace, (our anxieties)
was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." "Jesus stripes" are talking about healing every part of us that need fixing.
We have a wonderful God and he does heal However, Isaiah 53:5 is not emphasizing that kind of healing. In fact it's talking about much more than healing the body.
Isaiah 53:4-6.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But HE WAS WOUNDED FOR OUR "TRANSGRESSIONS", HE WAS BRUISED FOR OUR 'INIQUITIES": the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
(All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the "INIQUITY" of us all.)
Isaiah 53:5 is emphasizing Christ as the sacrificial Lamb, taking our place on the cross.
(We are healed from the penalty of sin.)
By this we become sons of God!
For encouragement I would associate these passages with Romans 8:14-18 and
Romans 8:32.
"He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, HOW SHALL HE NOT WITH HIM ALSO FREELY GIVE US ALL THINGS?
We go to him with faith and confidence as a son and ask if it's in his will.
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 KJV in Jesus Christ name, the son of the living God, I pray for healing in this matter, Amen.
Thank you for continuing the discussion, I also tremble at His word we are just a spec compared to our God. Deuteronomy 18:15-19 This to me is fulfilled in John 1:1 the word of God in Jesus the Messiah. When Jesus was anointed the Messiah every word that Jesus said was the word of God the word of God in the flesh of His Son. Everything that was created was created by the word of God, not His Son. God said let there be, and it was.
If we read Isaiah 66:1 we cannot imagine how large God can be. He can overwhelm all of what we can imagine. In my human mind, I see His Spirit cover the earth like a dome, omnipresent, it is like an electrical grid that believers plug into, I know that may sound weird.
John 17 I will do my best to show my understanding, this is just before Jesus was going to be nailed to the cross. Verses 1-5 Jesus is praying to the Father about Himself, the Father is God, when we pray, we pray to our Father, and we relate to God as Father, through the Bible Father means God and Jesus said to His Father He is the only true God. In and through Jesus Christ we become sons and daughters of God, so we cry out Abba, Father, Galatians 4:6.
Jesus said He had finished the work the Father had given to Him and Jesus glorified His Father on earth. Jesus is now ready to face death on the cross and fulfilling the law and the prophet's, all of what Scripture had said what He would become, and Jesus was ready to take His place on the right hand of His Father, Isaiah 53:12Jeremiah 23:5-62 Samuel 7:12-13Psalm 110:4Psalm 16:10, these are just a few verses that Jesus would have known about Himself.
In Daniel 7:13-14 Daniel had a prophetic vision of Jesus's ascension and God the Father giving His Son Jesus dominion and glory overall and giving Him the kingdom. God showed Daniel this was with God in the beginning, in God's plan but did not come to fruition until Jesus ascended in Acts 1:9.
Luke 15:10 states that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents among angels. It also says there is more joy there than in 99 who need no repentance (verse 7) in heaven; which should signify among the Godhead as well.
I hesitate to get into the positive aspects of God's demeanor for one thing because of the admonitions in Ecclesiastes 7:2. Our true joy should come to us as it did for our Lord described as a "man of sorrows" ( Isaiah 53:3). He rejoiced in doing the Father's will; which at times no doubt coincided with certain acts such as the water turning into wine and with seeing the great faith of just two people mentioned in scripture; the woman who begged for the "crumbs under the table" ( Matthew 15:28) and the verse about the Roman Centurion ( Matthew 8:5-9). In the first case; and likely the second these individuals were not Jews which makes these things even more remarkable. As I said before even the Temple was a place that caused indignation because He was zealous for God's house to be free of money making during the Sabbath (there were at least 2 purgings there in the Bible; perhaps 3).
Another thing today; of course related to God's disposition of rejoicing over us; or His love and blessings is how twisted the mindset of the church is. We cannot have a God of perfect love without Him also having a perfect and Holy indignation. True love rejoices over the truth ( 1 Cor. 13:6). And of course greater love has no man than dying for His friends ( John 15:13). It is from love that God saves us as well as chastises His own. It seems many today want to remain immature in their faith and insensitive to the Spirit calling them; oftentimes through other believers or even the observations of nonbelievers in their lives.
Being born again should be the beginning of the story not the end for this life because this world is the only opportunity we will have to grow in sanctification and to earn imperishable rewards (or lose them).
God the Father granted Christ all authority on heaven and earth which sets forth the ultimate example of how God worked to reward the perfect obedience of Christ. It also goes against Satan's offer to worship him to have such authority. ( Matthew 28:18; Matthew 4:9).
One may question how Christ; who Himself brought all of creation into existence would have such a destiny. ( Colossians 1:16-20). In that situation; one may say that He was the Person to do the work that the Father had planned; and His agent as it were was the Spirit of God (hovering over the waters as it states in Genesis 1:2).
We realize in this that no servant is greater than his master. ( John 15:20). We all are nothing without Him; yet He will likewise exalt the humble with positions to rule and reign with Christ in the Millennium. In some sense we can say that Christ emptied Himself so that He could be our High Priest suffering in all ways but without sin. ( Heb. 4:15). As the second Adam He was able to keep from the temptations of the devil to fall unlike Adam; as well as fulfilling the law perfectly which no man could do. ( 1 Cor. 15:45-47).
It is hard to get our mind around these facts; that He who created all things would start from conception as a helpless babe and end as a sheep to the slaughter ( Isaiah 53:7); the Lamb of God which will forever be ascribed to His Name. Of course all of us who are saved are adopted sons; ( Ephesians 1:5) part of the eternal lineage of the rightous (as contrasted with the earth dwellers in Revelation 11:10).
Christ is returning as conquering king. He alone trods the winepress ( Isaiah 63:3). He alone brings forth the TRUE one world government of peace and rules in righteousness; impartially judging as many verses in Isaiah testify. Some verses can be taken symbolically but to not take Revelation 19 literally or somehow think Christ already returned in some mystical way is heretical thinking (see 2 Tim. 2:18)
Hello Adam. I consider your question through two separate perspectives: one, before the incarnation of the Word of God and the other, after it. From my readings of the whole Word of God, I don't believe that the writers of the OT nor their hearers would have understood any other concept or acceptance of the God's Nature other than 'He is One & there is none beside Him' (e.g. Isaiah 45:5.6).
Even the "Shema Yisrael" ( Deuteronomy 6:4,5) is Israel's central belief & affirmation on the singularity of God's Person, & any suggestion of a 'compound' Nature of God would be anathema. Also Isaiah 53:1-12 and Isaiah 9:6,7 references to a coming Messiah, which should clearly reveal the Divine Nature of a Coming One, is discarded by them, then & now. So, anything of a Triune God must be rejected by the Jew, & only the operation of God by His Spirit (i.e. God revealing Himself & working before them) should be acceptable to them (e.g. Psalm 51:10,11; Isaiah 11:2; & many others). As believers though, we can see the Triune God in operation in the whole Bible, but Israel is blinded to this Truth & their hearts hardened.
When Jesus came & spoke (e.g. John 16:27,28; John 17:5), He declared His Divine Nature, that which was not revealed before. So your reference ( Matthew 22:32), speaks primarily of the One Nature of God; but to those who believe, having received salvation through Jesus Christ, know that the God of Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob was always the Triune God, Who would one day manifest Himself fully to a needy world: God's Word first by the prophets, now given through His Word made flesh ( Hebrews 1:1-3) . What Israel knew of the One God then, should have revealed the full Nature of a Triune God at the appearance of their Messiah. But their eyes were blinded & hearts hardened. Therefore, as Christians, I believe that we should see God (in the OT & NT) as a Triune God, manifesting Himself also as His Word and His Spirit going forth to accomplish His Will over His creation.
Well my opinion is that healing IS actually a matter of faith. I don't know you and the circumstances you are living under so I am talking in general. When Jesus was ministering in this world nobody who came to Him and requested their heailing was left uncured, unless there was unbelief. Mark 6:5-6, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief...". So it seems it was not possible even for Jesus to heal some people. Not because He did not have the power to do so but because the power of God has to meet our faith to be energized. Faith is the most essential thing in the christian belief. Through faith Abraham was considered righteous by God, through his faith he almost sacrificed Isaac and through his faith he received him back. Through our faith in Jesus' sacrifice we receive eternal life. God has chosen faith to be the condition of receiving things by Him, material things or spiritual. Without faith nobody receives anything from God. James 1:6-7, " But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. "
Jesus gave his life for us not only for our righteousness but for our illnesses as well. Isaiah 53:5, "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." But as we need faith to be saved, similarly we need faith for the healing of our body and soul. Without faith non of those comes to us. We are not any different from other people, we get ill like everybody else. But we were given the right from God to ask Him to cure us and receive it. So lets energize our faith. Being close to God uplifts our faith. So lets move closer to Him. GBU
Mark 11:26 KJV: But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Mark 11:26 NIV: The verse is omitted completely. I will comment though, that within Mark 11:25, the same meaning is expressed, i.e. if one does not forgive, neither will God forgive.
More relevant though, again is the footnote in the NIV: "This verse is not found in the earliest and best manuscripts of the NT, probably having been inserted from MT 6:15"; which IS included in the NIV. This means it's quite possible, or highly probable that the KJV copyists added it to coincide with Matthew.
But it is obvious that the NIV translators had no malice or corrupt motives with this passage, as you are suggesting.
Next; Mark 15:28 KJV: And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.
Mark 15:28 NIV: This verse is also omitted.
NIV footnote: "The earlier and more reliable Greek manuscripts do not have this verse. It was probably added from LK 22:37 (quoting Isa 53:12). Mark does not include many OT quotations."
The NIV copyists appear to put forth great effort as to why they chose to delete this verse, and in the text note they say that, "some manuscripts; v28 And the scripture was fulfilled which says, " He was counted with the lawless ones" ( Isaiah 53:12)."
I do not want anyone to have the impression that I'm attempting to prove the KJV translations are incorrect. On the contrary, my original intent was to respond to you questioning some passages in the modern Bible versions. With genuine respect, you may consider choosing to look into the footnotes and text notes of some of these versions. I wish I had time to reply to the numerous passages you've brought to the attention to those on this site. Perhaps now you may want to do so on your own.
Interesting sign-in name, just to add to Jema's wonderful reply. My understanding Jesus came to fulfill the law and the prophets and Jesus asking them in Luke 22:36 to buy swords was part of fulfilling the prophecy. He told them in, Luke 22:37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.
Isaiah 53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
In Luke 22:36-38, He tells them why the swords they had would be enough, then in verse 52, we see they came with swords and spears as against a thief. Jesus was also put on the cross between two thieves, Matthew 27:38. Even the least of the not obvious prophecies, Jesus fulfilled them all.
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.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being NOW JUSTIFIED by his blood, we shall be saved FROM WRATH through HIM.
Psalms 88:16 Thy (the Father's) WRATH has gone over ME (Christ); thy (the Father's terrors have cut ME (Christ) off.
Job 19:11 He (the Father) hath kindled HIS WRATH against ME (Christ), he (the Father) counteth ME (Christ) as one of his enemies.
Isaiah 53:10 It pleased the LORD to bruise HIM, he hath put him to grief: when thou shall make HIS soul an OFFERING for SIN....
The wrath of GOD that all creation deserved was POURED OUT, by his Father, on Christ.
Christ is telling his disciples what is going to occur in a few hours:
Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation (all the wrath of GOD poured out on Christ)), such as was not from the beginning of the world To THIS TIME, nor shall ever be (again).
Matthew 24:21 And except those DAYS (of the great tribulation, the wrath of God on his SON) BE SHORTENED (Pilate SAID, is he so SOON be dead), there shall no flesh BE SAVED (all creation was saved by the great tribulation of Christ).
If you want more scriptures I will give them to you.
Hello Rrscaccia. I think you have misread this portion. If I might write it as I understand this passage ( Romans 1:1-3):
"Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he (i.e. God) had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) concerning his (i.e. God;s) Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh..."
So Paul is stating that even as he Paul was called by the Lord to be Jesus' apostle, the Gospel which Paul had to preach was of Jesus Christ, God's Son Whom God had "promised afore by His prophets..."). So where are these promises? You can look at Deuteronomy 18:18; Isaiah 9:6,7; Isaiah 53:1-12; Isaiah 61:1-3; Jeremiah 23:5 (yet a future fulfillment): these prophets all spoke of Jesus (though they didn't know Him by that Name but that One would be sent from God), Who would come from Heaven through the Davidic line, being called the Son of God by His Divine Birth.
Please refer to my respond to Chris re Heb 4:12 and 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
On your statements regarding the Wrath of God and the nature of Christ's Atonement, I must disagree.
I would encourage you to carefully read Isaiah 53, the entire chapter.
And also consider these verses:
Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Ephesians 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Colossians 3:6 For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
So if God has "saved" us, it means that Christ, eternal God Himself, had taken upon Himself every dirty rotten sin that we have committed or ever will commit, and has paid the full penalty for those sins, the Wrath of God, Eternal Death, which we rightly deserve, required by the Law of God, as our substitute. And He has freed us from Bondage to Sin and Satan, and has raised us from Spiritual Death and given us Eternal Life. And will at the Last Day, complete our Salvation by giving us our Resurrected Spiritual Body ( 1 Corinthians 15) in which we will live and reign with Christ as joint inheritors with Christ of the New Heavens and New Earth for ever more.
P1: Re-read some scriptures last evening and would like to write them here.
All of John Chapter 13 ; Chapter 14
John 1:4 "In him was life; and the life was the light of men."
Colossians 1:15 "Who is the image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature."
Romans 8:32 "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"
Hebrews 1:8 "But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom."
John 1:3 "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made."
Hebrews 1:3 "Who being the brightness of his glory and express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;"
Romans 8:29 "For whom he did foreknowledge, he did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the first born among many brethren."
1 Corinthians 1:29 "That no flesh glory in his presence"
John 1:14 "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we behold his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."
Luke 1:31 "And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS."
Matthew 1:19 "Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privileges."
Isaiah 53:1 "Who hat believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?"
Philippians 2:5 - 6 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God."
Hebrews 6:20 "Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest after the order of Melchisedec."
It is clear from Mark 8 and numerous other passages that Christ had crowds following Him everywhere. This; no doubt was a large part of the reason He couldn't rest His head any place.
24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid.
Mistry to the crowds: Healings; feedings and Parables
What is noteworthy in Christ's ministry is His technique of aligning men's thoughts to the proper focus; that being Christ's purpose. The Parables acted as teaching of who Christ was; in a manner that would only reveal it to those who God draws to Him. Mark 8:30 is one example of Christ admonishing Peter on that subject. In God's Providence; when the truth WAS revealed it would either be to those who God drew; OR it would be given to those who clearly were rejecting Him (Pharisees); which would only elicit hatred and attempted assassinations (which would no doubt fit into His destiny of being captured; rejected and crucified). This is a very sobering thought to ponder; namely that information about who Christ is is never sufficient for conversion without God drawing a man. Jesus escaped man's attempts to kill Him until the proper hour; but also He didn't want to be worshipped as King of the Jews to be a conquering hero because His own people couldn't see the suffering servant prophecy that needed to be fulfilled first. We see how this worked when the crowds shouted "Hosanna" the beginning of His last week on earth; then before it was over were shouting "crucify Him." ( John 19:6). Also as we see a few verses later ( Mark 8:33) Satan was working in Peter to try to stop Him from going to the cross. The cross is an offense to man; and we should look at it's beauty and horror in one picture of this event as it pertains to our atonement and justification by crushing God's son ( Isaiah 53:10).
Philippians 2:2-11 goes through a detailed synopsis of how Christ; a member of the infinite Godhead came to earth and humbled himself to live as a man and to die on a cross. We often focus on how Christ's intimacy with the Father was affected; with the peak of course being at the crucifixion ( Matt. 27:46). The reverse; no doubt would have been excruciating for God the Father as well. For Christ to die for His enemies is beyond our comprehension; but for the Father in His eternal plans to plan on crushing the Son ( Isaiah 53:10) is also beyond our understanding. Yet God was "pleased" to do this!
The victory was complete; when He said "it is finished" and gave up his spirit at death. ( John 19:30). Death could not overtake Him ( Acts 2:24-32).
Looking at the entire earthly existence of Christ we see how profoundly He humbled Himself as a servant. One who created the heavens and the earth chose to live with total abandon to the cause; He had no place to rest His head ( Matt. 8:20). No doubt there were transient lodgings as recorded in scripture; the only place where it mentioned Him sleeping was on the boat ( Mark 4:38). Often He was up before dawn praying; and before He chose the 12 Disciples He was up all night ( Luke 6:12). Being the Son of God of course He knew all things; but nonetheless prayer was a key factor indicating communion with God. In the case of Peter Jesus prayed against the Devil's schemes ( Luke 22:32); in that case He knew about Peter's eventual restoration and strengthening of His brothers before the denial at Christ's trial took place. Doubtless He also prayed similar ways for the others; and clearly in these passages He knew all would betray Him as the prophecies indicate ( Matt. 26:31 from prophecy in Zech. 13:7). He also demonstrated the ultimate care for His mother ( John 19:25-29); but always put God above men's desires ( Matt. 12:46-50).
Hebrews 4:15 allows Him to intercede ( Heb. 7:25).
Did not know it was Messiah the King in Dan. 9:25, whether that would matter, we know He is King.
I have enjoyed this discussion because of its importance not on salvation but for those who will be living when the end starts. This 70th week, if it is in the future or if it has been fulfilled in the past makes a world of difference in what people are expecting to happen.
If the 70th week is in the future there will be the 7-year pre, mid, or post-tribulation as taught, but if it has been fulfilled in the past that would make that false. What outcome would that have on those who are here?
Daniels people, the lost sheep of Israel, Matt. 10:5-6 did not reject Him, it was the corrupt rulers of Jerusalem and the temple, Luke 16:14-15 whose eyes were blinded and Jesus cried over it Luke 19:39-44. Many of them believed in Him but would not confess Him, John 12:42. Jesus the Messiah had to be cut off/sacrificed, Psalm 22:16-18Isaiah 53:8-12 to atone for sins, Dan. 9:26.
If the priests and leaders of Jerusalem had received Jesus as their Messiah and had not conspired with the Romans to crucify Him, there would be no atonement sacrifice for the salvation of the Jews first and also to the Greek/Gentiles, it was God's plan.
Daniel 9:25-27 is a precise prediction of when Jesus would come and be anointed. In the scripture from Matthew to Acts 8:4-5, there is strong evidence without assumption of a 7-year amount of time from the anointing of Jesus the Messiah and His 3.5-year ministry/confirming the covenant to the lost sheep of Israel, Daniel's people.
His crucifixion in the middle and 3.5 more years the gospel was to only the lost sheep, Daniel's people by Jesus through His apostles, thousands were saved, then the death of Stephen, and the gospel going to the Gentiles, to make the Jews jealous, the branch broke off, but still offered to the Jews.
Just to finish up on the Last Week. Sorry, this is so long but I hope you will have all the reasons for my understanding of this very important prophecy. I have learned much.
I know we differ on this and I believe we both respect each other as brothers and the truth is what matters. The word prince in vs 25 is the same as in vs. 26 it is the Hebrew word nagiyd or nagid meaning chief commander, leader, ruler, or prince, but never translated as king, but many times as the commander of a military.
Daniel 9:24 Seventy weeks, 490 years are given for the things that are determined to be accomplished that is the prophecy. 1. To finish the transgression. 2 To make an end of sins. 3 to make reconciliation for iniquity. 4 to bring in everlasting righteousness. 5 To seal up vision and prophecy. 6 To anoint the most holy.
These 6 things were determined upon Daniel's people, the lost sheep of Israel, and the holy city, Jerusalem. Were these things accomplished when Jesus first came, or will they be accomplished after Jesus second coming? These six things are the purpose of the prophecy, Dan. 9:24.
My understanding Jesus accomplished this when He first came. The 70 weeks which is 490 years are given for these 6 things to be accomplished.
1 To finish the transgression. From "transgress," to pass over or beyond; to overpass, as any rule prescribed as the limit of duty; to break or violate, as a law, civil or moral; the act of transgressing; the violation of a law, rebellion. Isaiah 53:5,8 Isaiah 53:11Hebrews 9:15-18.
Jesus with a perfect life gave up his body to death; he fulfilled the first covenant of law and redeeming of the transgressions under the first covenant of law. He became sin for us, and with his blood made the new covenant being the only mediator of the New Testament that we through faith in Jesus Christ receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Offered first to the house of Israel then offered to the rest of the world.
2 To make an end of sins (Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law). The verb in the Hebrew text translated as "put an end to" can mean "to seal up". The covering of our sins was accomplished on the cross at Calvary. When he said IT IS FINISHED, he provided us with the garments (wedding garments) to cover our sins. Psalm 32:1-2Matthew 1:21John 1:29Romans 8:31 Corinthians 15:3Hebrews 10:8-111 John 3:5Revelation 16:15.
Is there still sin today? Yes. Will there still be sin and death after Jesus's second coming? Yes. Even during the 1000 years, there will be sin and death until all is made new Rev. 21:1-4 but through Jesus, they are covered and sealed, Rev. 16:15
3 To make reconciliation for iniquity (Reconciliation is an element of salvation that refers to the results of the atonement, iniquity is guilt, crookedness, perverseness, that which is not straight or upright, moral distortion, in the dark. Colossians 1:20-22Isaiah 53:6Isaiah 53:11Ephesians 2:16Titus 2:142 Corinthians 5:18-19.
The word reconcile means to bring back to a former state of harmony Jesus reconciled both Jew and Gentile unto God in one body by the cross and now through Jesus we both Jew and Gentile have access by one Spirit unto the Father no more strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens. Making reconciliation for iniquity concerns our involvement in the work of salvation.
4 To bring in everlasting righteousness. Everlasting, no end, righteousness, justice, mercy, loving-kindness, in conformity to the demands of the covenant and according to God's will, fair and balanced. Isaiah 61:10-112 Corinthians 5:21Romans 3:21-26Romans 5:17-211 Peter 2:24.
I know this has been discussed before and we have different understandings, but just have a couple of thoughts to consider, I will not go over all this prophecy just the first of 9:27.
If I am correct, it is thought the 69th week ended when Jesus' ride into Jerusalem fulfilling Zech. 9:9. Dan. 9:26 says 69 weeks unto the Messiah, should we look over the 3.5 years from when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit? Look at the multitude that met Him when He rode in, they knew who He was, He came for the lost sheep of Israel.
The antichrist will make a covenant with Israel. We go to Dan. 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: So here we have the last week/7 years and he is said to be the antichrist.
"He shall confirm the covenant with many", could he in this verse fit Jesus? Psalms 105:8-11Isaiah 42:6Isaiah 49:8Isaiah 49:6Romans 15:8Galatians 3:17Hebrews 13:20 I could list many more. The word confirm does not mean make, it shows us the covenant already existed. Confirm means to strengthen, to be stronger.
God made a covenant with Abraham and Abraham said God would provide Himself a Lamb, Genesis 22:7-8, was Jesus this Lamb, Isaiah 53:7John 1:29Revelation 5:6. This covenant is with many, Zechariah 2:11Isaiah 53:11Matthew 20:28Matthew 26:28Romans 5:15,19. Jesus was sent to confirm the promise/covenant made unto Abraham, Romans 15:8. Could Jesus be this he?
"In the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease" Sacrifice and Oblation, the first word is talking about the daily sacrifices, the Tamid, the morning and evening lamb the same time Jesus was on the cross 9 AM the first to 3 PM the last. Then the second word refers to all of the other offerings presented to the Lord.
Do you think the sacrifice and oblation was designed by God to completely cease upon the finished work of Jesus on the cross? Hebrews 9.
In my last post; I talked about Peter. He was revealed who Christ was which could only have come from the Father ( Matt. 16:17).
The HOLINESS of God is talked about frequently; perhaps easiest remembered in Revelation 4:8-11 (also found in Isaiah 6:3).
When the Bible describes judgment; and hell viewed on earth such as in Isaiah 66 there is no appreciation of the wicked for His Holiness or any other attributes. Our life as believers is hidden in Christ ( Colossians 3:3) and the verse also talks about how we must be "crucified with Christ". Those who believe have truly "passed from death to life" ( John 5:24 with further insights in 1 John as well). So that is the difference; we have either the eternal state of our spiritual condition to be in our fallen sin which is totally blind to His glory and only focused on self; or we are new creations which are now able to glorify God in heaven (and we start now by being seated in heavenly places ( Eph. 2:6). Therefore we begin now; to rule and reign with Him in a sense-it is a done deal as Romans 8:30; and Ephesians 1:13 states.
Isaiah 53:11 states that He will see the travail of His soul and be satisfied; quoting a verse from an entire CHAPTER on Christ which is the famous chapter Jews like to ignore because of clear Messianic descriptions matching that of Christ. His satisfaction therefore will be in ruling and reigning WITH us; with the sons of glory (sort of combining Hebrews 2:10 with the concept of Romans 8:17.) He did it to please the Father first and foremost; but also of course has been given all authority on heaven and earth. ( Matt. 28:18). It is strange to conceive ourselves in a similar way; but nonetheless being part of the firstfruits we also suffer for a time then are glorified and rewarded ( 1 Peter 5:10).
Obviously; as we look to the concept of varying amounts of rewards for either the wicked (punishment) we have the same idea in regard to the saved. ( 1 Cor. 3:15). more in part3
Assurance of salvation: Focus on meaning of 1 Timothy 2:4 in light of current subject matter
The matter of Predestination becomes a thorny one on this verse. On the surface it would seem a Universalist mindset saying that all men eventually will be saved is a logical conclusion but clearly the Bible indicates otherwise. When we examine the same book in chapter 4 verse 10 we see that Christ is the Savior "especially of those who believe" which makes no sense unless we understand that He knows all who will eventually come to Him therefore in that sense while we were yet sinners; Christ died for us as we see in Romans 5:8. There are certain joys and comforts in this life as well for everyone; saved or lost to some extent; the subject being called "common grace" is a cause of no small stir among some; I would prefer to say delayed sentence.
This verse clearly is different when we understand the will of the Father toward Christ and all those predestined to come to the Lord as we see in the Book of John. There are verses in Isaiah where it states that He came to take away the sins of many ( Isaiah 53:12; also see Hebrews 9:28). It is clear also that "few will be saved" ( Luke 13:24).
The focus on much of this should be on God's method of salvation; all man centered attempts to somehow fulfill statements in the Sermon on the Mount may appeal to a humanist or even an atheist in principle; but in reality unregenerate man has no capacity to fulfill the law; let alone the deeper implications; both of omission and commission of righteousness and avoiding sins of those types as well.
His church is a part of His Body in a mystical sense but also in a very real one as well ( 1 Cor. 12:27). He purchased it or redeemed it with His blood; and this in a legally binding covenant as it were. God always keeps His end of a bargain; man on the other hand finds many schemes. Again; the key is if the Lord confesses we are His own ( Matt. 10:32).
Assurance of salvation series: Part 1-Just what is salvation?
Most of us are familiar with the verse in Romans 10:9-10 where we are told to confess with our mouth and believe in our hearts that Christ is Lord. I thought that I would focus on the second part since "confessional regeneration" as some Calvanists like to spin it today seems to be a rampant event. First; of course we have to assume that we are confessing the true Christ and not a New Age One; that is from a spirit that confesses that Christ indeed came in the flesh as opposed to the verse 1 John 4:3 that would cover any other errant one such as that He was just a great teacher; a Prophet or something to that affect. Truly He was the "I AM" ( John 8:56-59). That truth; as I have pointed out in previous posts proved that Peter knew with Divine Revelation such information ( Matt. 16:17). That gives us some understanding that with Judas Iscariot that likely wasn't revealed although it in not stated.
As stated earlier as well; the Calvanist likes to use the term "total depravity" describing the human soul state of unregenerate man. It is hard to argue with such logic when we see verses such as Psalm 58:3; and Isaiah 53:6; not to mention the progression toward the madness in Revelation 19; also reflected in Psalm 2.
I tend to think of our calloused hearts much like going to the dentist having our teeth cleaned. Most of us miss certain areas flossing; the plaque buildup requires major scraping; reflossing; and deep treatments with flouride while we marvel at the disgusting smelly crap that has built up in between our teeth despite what we considered adequate care. Maybe it is only me.
Or; we could look at C.S. Lewis quoting Edmond in the Narnia Series (not sure which one) where Christ was compared to a lion.
The character expected a mild peeling away of the dead skin; instead it penetrated like heart surgery. Such imagery also was given to Aslan as to how deep he had to be wounded for us.
Concluding thoughts on introduction to assurance of salvation.
I would appreciate for those few that regularly respond to my posts to keep these discussions in prayer. I suppose I could put a separate prayer request up; but you guys know who I am talking about here. It would be good for this to permeate to a larger audience. I will; of course ask for prayer on that happening not for my own ego but because there are many who need to have a healthy assurance of salvation; and others who need to wrestle it out; as it were like Jacob with the Angel of God. How bad to we want the blessing; or how bad do we want Jesus? This is not wrong to pursue; as the persistent widow parable states. Sadly (speaking for myself) I spend much of my time asking for things that aren't His will and that is usually due to my heart condition rather than any obvious worldly desire as I wouldn't want to do something that stupid asking for a rebuke. I don't think I'm alone here; I sense that many have hearts that have turned cold and distant so that the concept of a loving God seems like an ecclesiastical topic on an esoteric plane rather than a daily living reality. Ugh; I suppose I'm worse off than I want to admit so I'll take any prayer I can get.
Living out what is truly our living Hope should be done with love; joy; peace; longsuffering and the like. I feel at this juncture that I should ask you guys to pray that my heart is in the same place with my mind; which I feel has been trained to function at some proficiency in meting out the Word as a Berean and in a balanced manner. I want to warn about emotions and things other than the Word and Spirit ( Romans 8:16) giving us assurance. Those who know me here are aware somewhat of my personal struggles living with unsaved parents at present; and scars from a divorce years ago. Isaiah 53:5 is something I feel I must live out more effectively.
Anyway; as I said I hope this generates further discussion on an important topic.
Thoughts on Christ's sacrifice and how it should mirror our own journey as pilgrims on the earth ( 1 Peter 2:11).
The Lord along with at least 2 Apostles lived with an understanding of their time of death approaching (Paul after being warned what would come to pass in Jerusalem; and Peter after Christ's questioning his love for Him). There was always care to the disciples in the case of Christ; and the church in regard to Paul's ministry in particular but certainly Peter and others as well which superceded their own sufferings. This takes Spirit filled living of course; as well as loving our enemies ( Matt. 5:44). Jesus showed the ultimate example of concern at the cross (See John 19:26-27) when John brought Mary into his home (indicating; of course that Joseph had passed away by this point along with his absence in this passage).
Our natural inclination would be to react as Matthew 16:22 as Peter did to the thought of Christ going to the cross if we are honest. Good Friday is only good to us if we go beyond some ritual commemorating suffering without understanding His substitutionary death results in our atonement and ultimately commenced in victory at the Resurrection. This is how ugly our sins were and of course it demonstrates how we were yet sinners and Christ died for us; His enemies ( Romans 5:8). Christ; of course chose to do the Father's will; He was in one sense the victim of circumstances; but these were predestined to bring us to glory. The Father in Isaiah 53:10 was pleased to crush His Son; we cannot comprehend this as to the Godhead; or as to how great His love is for us.
Therefore let us commit our whole lives to patiently serving God; and believing that He is a rewarder of those who do good and diligently serve Him. ( Heb. 11:6). May we minister to the Body as we are all adopted sons; and no longer of this world. Isaiah 53:11 shows how Christ will enjoy the result of His suffering; Psalm 91:16 may apply to our future as well.
Psalm 91 Verse 11 of this Psalm was quoted in Matthew 4:6; which is indicative of the promises which the Son of God no doubt had being part of the eternal Godhead with the angels He created for eternal worship in heavenly places.
Looking at the preceding verses; we see promises for those who are God's children to be hidden (compare with Colossians 3:3); and we shouldn't ignore the following statement in verse 2 about those who TRUST God. We also see promises which apply in general to God's covenant people such as Deuteronomy 7:15; and fulfilled by Christ in verses such as Isaiah 53:5. Ultimately; however these promises will be fulfilled in the Millennial Kingdom as may be indicated in verse 7; and in the Tribulation for those dweiling in heaven as indicated from verse 9.
Luke 10:19 shows how Christ fulfills certain promises in freedom from Satan's grip which is similar to what it states in Psalm 91:13.
The remainder of the Psalm could indicate Christ's reward as well as our own during the Millennial period as well. There will also be natural life expectancies (see Isaiah 65:22) that are vastly extended at that time.
As we look at things today; of course we still live with all of creation groaning as it were; such as indicated in Romans 8:22. Satan himself will get his due reward; ending once and for all his usurper role as a pseudo ruler; who ultimately fulfills God's prophetic plan; as it did when he entered Judas Iscariot so that all things could be fulfilled and Christ would die for our atonement ( Heb. 9:28; also read Isaiah 53 in its entirety). We are all in perishable bodies for a brief time; but we certainly can find ways to shorten our lives due to sin adding to our miseries. For now; pestilences and other things can be held back or mitigated; but that will not be helpful during the Tribulation. At that time the 144,000 will be supernaturally protected before God brings judgments upon the earth. May we live soberly in the fear of God
Colossians 3:2 "Set your affections on things above, not on things of the earth."
This verse reminds us that our lives are as it were ..."seated in heavenly places.".. ( Eph. 2:6). That considers who is our advocate "ever interceding for us" ( Heb. 7:25). As I have pointed out in previous posts; the sheer magnitude of the physical splendor of heaven as great as it is is dwarfed by its Creator. Surely Satan would want to covet all of heaven's grandeur for himself; as indicated in descriptions of his exalted place as worship leader in Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14. As great as the pattern in heaven that God Himself mandated to be followed in the earthly temple or representation of the heavenly tabernacle; it is His presence which is always preeminent. This is why although Jesus Himself was God in the flesh He was not possessing beauty in the way man would desire Him ( Isaiah 4:2). This is why such a bloody sacrifice could be something that actually pleased the Father ( Isaiah 53:10). So we need to both die to our old ways and all the things that attract the five senses above our desire to glorify God.
Much of the Kingdom of God has to do with obedience out of love ( John 14:15). Learning to love the ways of another is much like a woman who was betrothed and prepares for the marriage as scriptural parables as well as in some ways the Song of Solomon may indicate at a deeper level. We don't learn to love someone by cheating (such as illicit relations before marriage); or by focusing on vain actions that promote our own agenda. Service now certainly is a good way to get to know God's ways as well as prepare for heaven. This is utterly devoid of meaning to the unregenerate. Dying to ourselves is complete once we pass from this life; it is up to us to conform to His image or cling on to our old ways; the former brings great reward and is proclaimed and known by others; the latter brings great loss for us and eternal rewards as well. Let us do it now!
It seems; at least from much of my personal experience that kicking that perverbial can down the road is a rather common tactic for the unbeliever; namely that of death and judgment before our maker. Of course there are many other techniques as well; such as minimalizing the true hopelessness of our sin nature; attempting to steer all conversation on the evils of the world apart from our own accountability and sometimes obvious vices.
One of the blinders that we often embrace from our youth is some sentimental view of those of our own family or friends who have passed on; as being somehow in a better place. We do ourselves no favors here; for Jesus Himself didn't demonstrate any mercy for the rich man with the very real tale of the Lazarus Parable. It is the Lord which works in us who shine forth as the stars as part of the Body of believers which is the significant part of every saint of God that lasts on into eternity; albeit with different levels of glory and each being uniquely created to represent a particular blend of characteristics. We see this in the spiritual giftings in this life. Lest we "hyperspiritualize" any of this stuff; ALL aspects of a redeemed life from work to family to recreation as well as our "spiritual" duties such as witnessing; scripture reading; prayer; etc. are called to be a representative display of Christ's character in our lives.
Another important point here is that Christ was a man of sorrows ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as all other characteristics that chapter describes in great detail. There were many who admired him as a great teacher or prophet ( Matthew 16:13-20); but only those that understood that He was the Son of God (or the "I am") were truly saved. This shows why many didn't remain with Him; He wasn't afraid to challenge those would be disciples ( 2 Timothy 4:10; Luke 18:23; Matt. 19:22).
Another problem exists when we are afraid to confront national sins. See part 2)
Thank you for taking time to help me understand Isaiah 53:5.
Healing puts back in place something that is out of order. Healing fixes things. Jesus' purpose in the land of the living was to make us whole.
It seems that Jesus reassured people that came to him for healing that their sins would not hinder their healing if they believed. Isaiah 53:5 is referring to both body and soul. In one scripture , the devils knew the prophesy of Isaiah concerning him. Jesus not only heals the "sin-sick soul, (transgression, iniquities) but the mind, BODY and soul. (COVID, Cancer, AIDS, Heart
Trouble, High blood pressure, diabetes) I noticed that in many conversation with the sick, Jesus mentions "sin." He was connecting sickness and sin.
St. James also mentioned Elders of the Church in relations to prayers for healing "sickness. and "sin."
The words " the chastisement of our peace, (our anxieties)
was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." "Jesus stripes" are talking about healing every part of us that need fixing.
We have a wonderful God and he does heal However, Isaiah 53:5 is not emphasizing that kind of healing. In fact it's talking about much more than healing the body.
Isaiah 53:4-6.
Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But HE WAS WOUNDED FOR OUR "TRANSGRESSIONS", HE WAS BRUISED FOR OUR 'INIQUITIES": the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
(All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the "INIQUITY" of us all.)
Isaiah 53:5 is emphasizing Christ as the sacrificial Lamb, taking our place on the cross.
(We are healed from the penalty of sin.)
By this we become sons of God!
For encouragement I would associate these passages with Romans 8:14-18 and
Romans 8:32.
"He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, HOW SHALL HE NOT WITH HIM ALSO FREELY GIVE US ALL THINGS?
We go to him with faith and confidence as a son and ask if it's in his will.
God bless.
stripes we are healed." It shows us that
God promised and and that the sick can be healed. There is power in these words to restore the ailing.
When we speak them in their presence, they are reminded as well as encouraged that God loves them and has made a way for them to be healed.
May God strengthen you. May he restore the sick among you! Amen.
Part one.
Thank you for continuing the discussion, I also tremble at His word we are just a spec compared to our God. Deuteronomy 18:15-19 This to me is fulfilled in John 1:1 the word of God in Jesus the Messiah. When Jesus was anointed the Messiah every word that Jesus said was the word of God the word of God in the flesh of His Son. Everything that was created was created by the word of God, not His Son. God said let there be, and it was.
If we read Isaiah 66:1 we cannot imagine how large God can be. He can overwhelm all of what we can imagine. In my human mind, I see His Spirit cover the earth like a dome, omnipresent, it is like an electrical grid that believers plug into, I know that may sound weird.
John 17 I will do my best to show my understanding, this is just before Jesus was going to be nailed to the cross. Verses 1-5 Jesus is praying to the Father about Himself, the Father is God, when we pray, we pray to our Father, and we relate to God as Father, through the Bible Father means God and Jesus said to His Father He is the only true God. In and through Jesus Christ we become sons and daughters of God, so we cry out Abba, Father, Galatians 4:6.
Jesus said He had finished the work the Father had given to Him and Jesus glorified His Father on earth. Jesus is now ready to face death on the cross and fulfilling the law and the prophet's, all of what Scripture had said what He would become, and Jesus was ready to take His place on the right hand of His Father, Isaiah 53:12 Jeremiah 23:5-6 2 Samuel 7:12-13 Psalm 110:4 Psalm 16:10, these are just a few verses that Jesus would have known about Himself.
In Daniel 7:13-14 Daniel had a prophetic vision of Jesus's ascension and God the Father giving His Son Jesus dominion and glory overall and giving Him the kingdom. God showed Daniel this was with God in the beginning, in God's plan but did not come to fruition until Jesus ascended in Acts 1:9.
See part 2.
Luke 15:10 states that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents among angels. It also says there is more joy there than in 99 who need no repentance (verse 7) in heaven; which should signify among the Godhead as well.
I hesitate to get into the positive aspects of God's demeanor for one thing because of the admonitions in Ecclesiastes 7:2. Our true joy should come to us as it did for our Lord described as a "man of sorrows" ( Isaiah 53:3). He rejoiced in doing the Father's will; which at times no doubt coincided with certain acts such as the water turning into wine and with seeing the great faith of just two people mentioned in scripture; the woman who begged for the "crumbs under the table" ( Matthew 15:28) and the verse about the Roman Centurion ( Matthew 8:5-9). In the first case; and likely the second these individuals were not Jews which makes these things even more remarkable. As I said before even the Temple was a place that caused indignation because He was zealous for God's house to be free of money making during the Sabbath (there were at least 2 purgings there in the Bible; perhaps 3).
Another thing today; of course related to God's disposition of rejoicing over us; or His love and blessings is how twisted the mindset of the church is. We cannot have a God of perfect love without Him also having a perfect and Holy indignation. True love rejoices over the truth ( 1 Cor. 13:6). And of course greater love has no man than dying for His friends ( John 15:13). It is from love that God saves us as well as chastises His own. It seems many today want to remain immature in their faith and insensitive to the Spirit calling them; oftentimes through other believers or even the observations of nonbelievers in their lives.
Being born again should be the beginning of the story not the end for this life because this world is the only opportunity we will have to grow in sanctification and to earn imperishable rewards (or lose them).
God the Father granted Christ all authority on heaven and earth which sets forth the ultimate example of how God worked to reward the perfect obedience of Christ. It also goes against Satan's offer to worship him to have such authority. ( Matthew 28:18; Matthew 4:9).
One may question how Christ; who Himself brought all of creation into existence would have such a destiny. ( Colossians 1:16-20). In that situation; one may say that He was the Person to do the work that the Father had planned; and His agent as it were was the Spirit of God (hovering over the waters as it states in Genesis 1:2).
We realize in this that no servant is greater than his master. ( John 15:20). We all are nothing without Him; yet He will likewise exalt the humble with positions to rule and reign with Christ in the Millennium. In some sense we can say that Christ emptied Himself so that He could be our High Priest suffering in all ways but without sin. ( Heb. 4:15). As the second Adam He was able to keep from the temptations of the devil to fall unlike Adam; as well as fulfilling the law perfectly which no man could do. ( 1 Cor. 15:45-47).
It is hard to get our mind around these facts; that He who created all things would start from conception as a helpless babe and end as a sheep to the slaughter ( Isaiah 53:7); the Lamb of God which will forever be ascribed to His Name. Of course all of us who are saved are adopted sons; ( Ephesians 1:5) part of the eternal lineage of the rightous (as contrasted with the earth dwellers in Revelation 11:10).
Christ is returning as conquering king. He alone trods the winepress ( Isaiah 63:3). He alone brings forth the TRUE one world government of peace and rules in righteousness; impartially judging as many verses in Isaiah testify. Some verses can be taken symbolically but to not take Revelation 19 literally or somehow think Christ already returned in some mystical way is heretical thinking (see 2 Tim. 2:18)
Even the "Shema Yisrael" ( Deuteronomy 6:4,5) is Israel's central belief & affirmation on the singularity of God's Person, & any suggestion of a 'compound' Nature of God would be anathema. Also Isaiah 53:1-12 and Isaiah 9:6,7 references to a coming Messiah, which should clearly reveal the Divine Nature of a Coming One, is discarded by them, then & now. So, anything of a Triune God must be rejected by the Jew, & only the operation of God by His Spirit (i.e. God revealing Himself & working before them) should be acceptable to them (e.g. Psalm 51:10,11; Isaiah 11:2; & many others). As believers though, we can see the Triune God in operation in the whole Bible, but Israel is blinded to this Truth & their hearts hardened.
When Jesus came & spoke (e.g. John 16:27,28; John 17:5), He declared His Divine Nature, that which was not revealed before. So your reference ( Matthew 22:32), speaks primarily of the One Nature of God; but to those who believe, having received salvation through Jesus Christ, know that the God of Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob was always the Triune God, Who would one day manifest Himself fully to a needy world: God's Word first by the prophets, now given through His Word made flesh ( Hebrews 1:1-3) . What Israel knew of the One God then, should have revealed the full Nature of a Triune God at the appearance of their Messiah. But their eyes were blinded & hearts hardened. Therefore, as Christians, I believe that we should see God (in the OT & NT) as a Triune God, manifesting Himself also as His Word and His Spirit going forth to accomplish His Will over His creation.
Well my opinion is that healing IS actually a matter of faith. I don't know you and the circumstances you are living under so I am talking in general. When Jesus was ministering in this world nobody who came to Him and requested their heailing was left uncured, unless there was unbelief. Mark 6:5-6, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief...". So it seems it was not possible even for Jesus to heal some people. Not because He did not have the power to do so but because the power of God has to meet our faith to be energized. Faith is the most essential thing in the christian belief. Through faith Abraham was considered righteous by God, through his faith he almost sacrificed Isaac and through his faith he received him back. Through our faith in Jesus' sacrifice we receive eternal life. God has chosen faith to be the condition of receiving things by Him, material things or spiritual. Without faith nobody receives anything from God. James 1:6-7, " But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. "
Jesus gave his life for us not only for our righteousness but for our illnesses as well. Isaiah 53:5, "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." But as we need faith to be saved, similarly we need faith for the healing of our body and soul. Without faith non of those comes to us. We are not any different from other people, we get ill like everybody else. But we were given the right from God to ask Him to cure us and receive it. So lets energize our faith. Being close to God uplifts our faith. So lets move closer to Him. GBU
Ok, I'll comment on the two passages from Mark.
Mark 11:26 KJV: But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Mark 11:26 NIV: The verse is omitted completely. I will comment though, that within Mark 11:25, the same meaning is expressed, i.e. if one does not forgive, neither will God forgive.
More relevant though, again is the footnote in the NIV: "This verse is not found in the earliest and best manuscripts of the NT, probably having been inserted from MT 6:15"; which IS included in the NIV. This means it's quite possible, or highly probable that the KJV copyists added it to coincide with Matthew.
But it is obvious that the NIV translators had no malice or corrupt motives with this passage, as you are suggesting.
Next; Mark 15:28 KJV: And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.
Mark 15:28 NIV: This verse is also omitted.
NIV footnote: "The earlier and more reliable Greek manuscripts do not have this verse. It was probably added from LK 22:37 (quoting Isa 53:12). Mark does not include many OT quotations."
The NIV copyists appear to put forth great effort as to why they chose to delete this verse, and in the text note they say that, "some manuscripts; v28 And the scripture was fulfilled which says, " He was counted with the lawless ones" ( Isaiah 53:12)."
I do not want anyone to have the impression that I'm attempting to prove the KJV translations are incorrect. On the contrary, my original intent was to respond to you questioning some passages in the modern Bible versions. With genuine respect, you may consider choosing to look into the footnotes and text notes of some of these versions. I wish I had time to reply to the numerous passages you've brought to the attention to those on this site. Perhaps now you may want to do so on your own.
Interesting sign-in name, just to add to Jema's wonderful reply. My understanding Jesus came to fulfill the law and the prophets and Jesus asking them in Luke 22:36 to buy swords was part of fulfilling the prophecy. He told them in, Luke 22:37 For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end.
Isaiah 53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
In Luke 22:36-38, He tells them why the swords they had would be enough, then in verse 52, we see they came with swords and spears as against a thief. Jesus was also put on the cross between two thieves, Matthew 27:38. Even the least of the not obvious prophecies, Jesus fulfilled them all.
God bless,
RLW
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.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being NOW JUSTIFIED by his blood, we shall be saved FROM WRATH through HIM.
Psalms 88:16 Thy (the Father's) WRATH has gone over ME (Christ); thy (the Father's terrors have cut ME (Christ) off.
Job 19:11 He (the Father) hath kindled HIS WRATH against ME (Christ), he (the Father) counteth ME (Christ) as one of his enemies.
Isaiah 53:10 It pleased the LORD to bruise HIM, he hath put him to grief: when thou shall make HIS soul an OFFERING for SIN....
The wrath of GOD that all creation deserved was POURED OUT, by his Father, on Christ.
Christ is telling his disciples what is going to occur in a few hours:
Matthew 24:21 For then shall be great tribulation (all the wrath of GOD poured out on Christ)), such as was not from the beginning of the world To THIS TIME, nor shall ever be (again).
Matthew 24:21 And except those DAYS (of the great tribulation, the wrath of God on his SON) BE SHORTENED (Pilate SAID, is he so SOON be dead), there shall no flesh BE SAVED (all creation was saved by the great tribulation of Christ).
If you want more scriptures I will give them to you.
God Bless YOU!
.
"Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he (i.e. God) had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) concerning his (i.e. God;s) Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh..."
So Paul is stating that even as he Paul was called by the Lord to be Jesus' apostle, the Gospel which Paul had to preach was of Jesus Christ, God's Son Whom God had "promised afore by His prophets..."). So where are these promises? You can look at Deuteronomy 18:18; Isaiah 9:6,7; Isaiah 53:1-12; Isaiah 61:1-3; Jeremiah 23:5 (yet a future fulfillment): these prophets all spoke of Jesus (though they didn't know Him by that Name but that One would be sent from God), Who would come from Heaven through the Davidic line, being called the Son of God by His Divine Birth.
Please refer to my respond to Chris re Heb 4:12 and 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
On your statements regarding the Wrath of God and the nature of Christ's Atonement, I must disagree.
I would encourage you to carefully read Isaiah 53, the entire chapter.
And also consider these verses:
Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
2 Corinthians 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Ephesians 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
Colossians 3:6 For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
So if God has "saved" us, it means that Christ, eternal God Himself, had taken upon Himself every dirty rotten sin that we have committed or ever will commit, and has paid the full penalty for those sins, the Wrath of God, Eternal Death, which we rightly deserve, required by the Law of God, as our substitute. And He has freed us from Bondage to Sin and Satan, and has raised us from Spiritual Death and given us Eternal Life. And will at the Last Day, complete our Salvation by giving us our Resurrected Spiritual Body ( 1 Corinthians 15) in which we will live and reign with Christ as joint inheritors with Christ of the New Heavens and New Earth for ever more.
Praise God for so great Salvation!
All of John Chapter 13 ; Chapter 14
John 1:4 "In him was life; and the life was the light of men."
Colossians 1:15 "Who is the image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature."
Romans 8:32 "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?"
Hebrews 1:8 "But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom."
John 1:3 "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made."
Hebrews 1:3 "Who being the brightness of his glory and express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;"
Romans 8:29 "For whom he did foreknowledge, he did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the first born among many brethren."
1 Corinthians 1:29 "That no flesh glory in his presence"
John 1:14 "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we behold his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."
Luke 1:31 "And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS."
Matthew 1:19 "Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privileges."
Isaiah 53:1 "Who hat believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?"
Philippians 2:5 - 6 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God."
Hebrews 6:20 "Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest after the order of Melchisedec."
P2 follows
It is clear from Mark 8 and numerous other passages that Christ had crowds following Him everywhere. This; no doubt was a large part of the reason He couldn't rest His head any place.
24 And from thence he arose, and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it: but he could not be hid.
Mistry to the crowds: Healings; feedings and Parables
What is noteworthy in Christ's ministry is His technique of aligning men's thoughts to the proper focus; that being Christ's purpose. The Parables acted as teaching of who Christ was; in a manner that would only reveal it to those who God draws to Him. Mark 8:30 is one example of Christ admonishing Peter on that subject. In God's Providence; when the truth WAS revealed it would either be to those who God drew; OR it would be given to those who clearly were rejecting Him (Pharisees); which would only elicit hatred and attempted assassinations (which would no doubt fit into His destiny of being captured; rejected and crucified). This is a very sobering thought to ponder; namely that information about who Christ is is never sufficient for conversion without God drawing a man. Jesus escaped man's attempts to kill Him until the proper hour; but also He didn't want to be worshipped as King of the Jews to be a conquering hero because His own people couldn't see the suffering servant prophecy that needed to be fulfilled first. We see how this worked when the crowds shouted "Hosanna" the beginning of His last week on earth; then before it was over were shouting "crucify Him." ( John 19:6). Also as we see a few verses later ( Mark 8:33) Satan was working in Peter to try to stop Him from going to the cross. The cross is an offense to man; and we should look at it's beauty and horror in one picture of this event as it pertains to our atonement and justification by crushing God's son ( Isaiah 53:10).
Philippians 2:2-11 goes through a detailed synopsis of how Christ; a member of the infinite Godhead came to earth and humbled himself to live as a man and to die on a cross. We often focus on how Christ's intimacy with the Father was affected; with the peak of course being at the crucifixion ( Matt. 27:46). The reverse; no doubt would have been excruciating for God the Father as well. For Christ to die for His enemies is beyond our comprehension; but for the Father in His eternal plans to plan on crushing the Son ( Isaiah 53:10) is also beyond our understanding. Yet God was "pleased" to do this!
The victory was complete; when He said "it is finished" and gave up his spirit at death. ( John 19:30). Death could not overtake Him ( Acts 2:24-32).
Looking at the entire earthly existence of Christ we see how profoundly He humbled Himself as a servant. One who created the heavens and the earth chose to live with total abandon to the cause; He had no place to rest His head ( Matt. 8:20). No doubt there were transient lodgings as recorded in scripture; the only place where it mentioned Him sleeping was on the boat ( Mark 4:38). Often He was up before dawn praying; and before He chose the 12 Disciples He was up all night ( Luke 6:12). Being the Son of God of course He knew all things; but nonetheless prayer was a key factor indicating communion with God. In the case of Peter Jesus prayed against the Devil's schemes ( Luke 22:32); in that case He knew about Peter's eventual restoration and strengthening of His brothers before the denial at Christ's trial took place. Doubtless He also prayed similar ways for the others; and clearly in these passages He knew all would betray Him as the prophecies indicate ( Matt. 26:31 from prophecy in Zech. 13:7). He also demonstrated the ultimate care for His mother ( John 19:25-29); but always put God above men's desires ( Matt. 12:46-50).
Hebrews 4:15 allows Him to intercede ( Heb. 7:25).
Part 1
Did not know it was Messiah the King in Dan. 9:25, whether that would matter, we know He is King.
I have enjoyed this discussion because of its importance not on salvation but for those who will be living when the end starts. This 70th week, if it is in the future or if it has been fulfilled in the past makes a world of difference in what people are expecting to happen.
If the 70th week is in the future there will be the 7-year pre, mid, or post-tribulation as taught, but if it has been fulfilled in the past that would make that false. What outcome would that have on those who are here?
Daniels people, the lost sheep of Israel, Matt. 10:5-6 did not reject Him, it was the corrupt rulers of Jerusalem and the temple, Luke 16:14-15 whose eyes were blinded and Jesus cried over it Luke 19:39-44. Many of them believed in Him but would not confess Him, John 12:42. Jesus the Messiah had to be cut off/sacrificed, Psalm 22:16-18 Isaiah 53:8-12 to atone for sins, Dan. 9:26.
If the priests and leaders of Jerusalem had received Jesus as their Messiah and had not conspired with the Romans to crucify Him, there would be no atonement sacrifice for the salvation of the Jews first and also to the Greek/Gentiles, it was God's plan.
Daniel 9:25-27 is a precise prediction of when Jesus would come and be anointed. In the scripture from Matthew to Acts 8:4-5, there is strong evidence without assumption of a 7-year amount of time from the anointing of Jesus the Messiah and His 3.5-year ministry/confirming the covenant to the lost sheep of Israel, Daniel's people.
His crucifixion in the middle and 3.5 more years the gospel was to only the lost sheep, Daniel's people by Jesus through His apostles, thousands were saved, then the death of Stephen, and the gospel going to the Gentiles, to make the Jews jealous, the branch broke off, but still offered to the Jews.
See Part 2
Part 1
Just to finish up on the Last Week. Sorry, this is so long but I hope you will have all the reasons for my understanding of this very important prophecy. I have learned much.
I know we differ on this and I believe we both respect each other as brothers and the truth is what matters. The word prince in vs 25 is the same as in vs. 26 it is the Hebrew word nagiyd or nagid meaning chief commander, leader, ruler, or prince, but never translated as king, but many times as the commander of a military.
Daniel 9:24 Seventy weeks, 490 years are given for the things that are determined to be accomplished that is the prophecy. 1. To finish the transgression. 2 To make an end of sins. 3 to make reconciliation for iniquity. 4 to bring in everlasting righteousness. 5 To seal up vision and prophecy. 6 To anoint the most holy.
These 6 things were determined upon Daniel's people, the lost sheep of Israel, and the holy city, Jerusalem. Were these things accomplished when Jesus first came, or will they be accomplished after Jesus second coming? These six things are the purpose of the prophecy, Dan. 9:24.
My understanding Jesus accomplished this when He first came. The 70 weeks which is 490 years are given for these 6 things to be accomplished.
1 To finish the transgression. From "transgress," to pass over or beyond; to overpass, as any rule prescribed as the limit of duty; to break or violate, as a law, civil or moral; the act of transgressing; the violation of a law, rebellion. Isaiah 53:5,8 Isaiah 53:11 Hebrews 9:15-18.
Jesus with a perfect life gave up his body to death; he fulfilled the first covenant of law and redeeming of the transgressions under the first covenant of law. He became sin for us, and with his blood made the new covenant being the only mediator of the New Testament that we through faith in Jesus Christ receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Offered first to the house of Israel then offered to the rest of the world.
See part 2
Part 2
2 To make an end of sins (Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law). The verb in the Hebrew text translated as "put an end to" can mean "to seal up". The covering of our sins was accomplished on the cross at Calvary. When he said IT IS FINISHED, he provided us with the garments (wedding garments) to cover our sins. Psalm 32:1-2 Matthew 1:21 John 1:29 Romans 8:3 1 Corinthians 15:3 Hebrews 10:8-11 1 John 3:5 Revelation 16:15.
Is there still sin today? Yes. Will there still be sin and death after Jesus's second coming? Yes. Even during the 1000 years, there will be sin and death until all is made new Rev. 21:1-4 but through Jesus, they are covered and sealed, Rev. 16:15
3 To make reconciliation for iniquity (Reconciliation is an element of salvation that refers to the results of the atonement, iniquity is guilt, crookedness, perverseness, that which is not straight or upright, moral distortion, in the dark. Colossians 1:20-22 Isaiah 53:6 Isaiah 53:11 Ephesians 2:16 Titus 2:14 2 Corinthians 5:18-19.
The word reconcile means to bring back to a former state of harmony Jesus reconciled both Jew and Gentile unto God in one body by the cross and now through Jesus we both Jew and Gentile have access by one Spirit unto the Father no more strangers or foreigners but fellow citizens. Making reconciliation for iniquity concerns our involvement in the work of salvation.
4 To bring in everlasting righteousness. Everlasting, no end, righteousness, justice, mercy, loving-kindness, in conformity to the demands of the covenant and according to God's will, fair and balanced. Isaiah 61:10-11 2 Corinthians 5:21 Romans 3:21-26 Romans 5:17-21 1 Peter 2:24.
See Part 3
I know this has been discussed before and we have different understandings, but just have a couple of thoughts to consider, I will not go over all this prophecy just the first of 9:27.
If I am correct, it is thought the 69th week ended when Jesus' ride into Jerusalem fulfilling Zech. 9:9. Dan. 9:26 says 69 weeks unto the Messiah, should we look over the 3.5 years from when Jesus was baptized and anointed with the Holy Spirit? Look at the multitude that met Him when He rode in, they knew who He was, He came for the lost sheep of Israel.
The antichrist will make a covenant with Israel. We go to Dan. 9:27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: So here we have the last week/7 years and he is said to be the antichrist.
"He shall confirm the covenant with many", could he in this verse fit Jesus? Psalms 105:8-11 Isaiah 42:6 Isaiah 49:8 Isaiah 49:6 Romans 15:8 Galatians 3:17 Hebrews 13:20 I could list many more. The word confirm does not mean make, it shows us the covenant already existed. Confirm means to strengthen, to be stronger.
God made a covenant with Abraham and Abraham said God would provide Himself a Lamb, Genesis 22:7-8, was Jesus this Lamb, Isaiah 53:7 John 1:29 Revelation 5:6. This covenant is with many, Zechariah 2:11 Isaiah 53:11 Matthew 20:28 Matthew 26:28 Romans 5:15,19. Jesus was sent to confirm the promise/covenant made unto Abraham, Romans 15:8. Could Jesus be this he?
"In the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease" Sacrifice and Oblation, the first word is talking about the daily sacrifices, the Tamid, the morning and evening lamb the same time Jesus was on the cross 9 AM the first to 3 PM the last. Then the second word refers to all of the other offerings presented to the Lord.
Do you think the sacrifice and oblation was designed by God to completely cease upon the finished work of Jesus on the cross? Hebrews 9.
God bless,
RLW
In my last post; I talked about Peter. He was revealed who Christ was which could only have come from the Father ( Matt. 16:17).
The HOLINESS of God is talked about frequently; perhaps easiest remembered in Revelation 4:8-11 (also found in Isaiah 6:3).
When the Bible describes judgment; and hell viewed on earth such as in Isaiah 66 there is no appreciation of the wicked for His Holiness or any other attributes. Our life as believers is hidden in Christ ( Colossians 3:3) and the verse also talks about how we must be "crucified with Christ". Those who believe have truly "passed from death to life" ( John 5:24 with further insights in 1 John as well). So that is the difference; we have either the eternal state of our spiritual condition to be in our fallen sin which is totally blind to His glory and only focused on self; or we are new creations which are now able to glorify God in heaven (and we start now by being seated in heavenly places ( Eph. 2:6). Therefore we begin now; to rule and reign with Him in a sense-it is a done deal as Romans 8:30; and Ephesians 1:13 states.
Isaiah 53:11 states that He will see the travail of His soul and be satisfied; quoting a verse from an entire CHAPTER on Christ which is the famous chapter Jews like to ignore because of clear Messianic descriptions matching that of Christ. His satisfaction therefore will be in ruling and reigning WITH us; with the sons of glory (sort of combining Hebrews 2:10 with the concept of Romans 8:17.) He did it to please the Father first and foremost; but also of course has been given all authority on heaven and earth. ( Matt. 28:18). It is strange to conceive ourselves in a similar way; but nonetheless being part of the firstfruits we also suffer for a time then are glorified and rewarded ( 1 Peter 5:10).
Obviously; as we look to the concept of varying amounts of rewards for either the wicked (punishment) we have the same idea in regard to the saved. ( 1 Cor. 3:15). more in part3
The matter of Predestination becomes a thorny one on this verse. On the surface it would seem a Universalist mindset saying that all men eventually will be saved is a logical conclusion but clearly the Bible indicates otherwise. When we examine the same book in chapter 4 verse 10 we see that Christ is the Savior "especially of those who believe" which makes no sense unless we understand that He knows all who will eventually come to Him therefore in that sense while we were yet sinners; Christ died for us as we see in Romans 5:8. There are certain joys and comforts in this life as well for everyone; saved or lost to some extent; the subject being called "common grace" is a cause of no small stir among some; I would prefer to say delayed sentence.
This verse clearly is different when we understand the will of the Father toward Christ and all those predestined to come to the Lord as we see in the Book of John. There are verses in Isaiah where it states that He came to take away the sins of many ( Isaiah 53:12; also see Hebrews 9:28). It is clear also that "few will be saved" ( Luke 13:24).
The focus on much of this should be on God's method of salvation; all man centered attempts to somehow fulfill statements in the Sermon on the Mount may appeal to a humanist or even an atheist in principle; but in reality unregenerate man has no capacity to fulfill the law; let alone the deeper implications; both of omission and commission of righteousness and avoiding sins of those types as well.
His church is a part of His Body in a mystical sense but also in a very real one as well ( 1 Cor. 12:27). He purchased it or redeemed it with His blood; and this in a legally binding covenant as it were. God always keeps His end of a bargain; man on the other hand finds many schemes. Again; the key is if the Lord confesses we are His own ( Matt. 10:32).
Most of us are familiar with the verse in Romans 10:9-10 where we are told to confess with our mouth and believe in our hearts that Christ is Lord. I thought that I would focus on the second part since "confessional regeneration" as some Calvanists like to spin it today seems to be a rampant event. First; of course we have to assume that we are confessing the true Christ and not a New Age One; that is from a spirit that confesses that Christ indeed came in the flesh as opposed to the verse 1 John 4:3 that would cover any other errant one such as that He was just a great teacher; a Prophet or something to that affect. Truly He was the "I AM" ( John 8:56-59). That truth; as I have pointed out in previous posts proved that Peter knew with Divine Revelation such information ( Matt. 16:17). That gives us some understanding that with Judas Iscariot that likely wasn't revealed although it in not stated.
As stated earlier as well; the Calvanist likes to use the term "total depravity" describing the human soul state of unregenerate man. It is hard to argue with such logic when we see verses such as Psalm 58:3; and Isaiah 53:6; not to mention the progression toward the madness in Revelation 19; also reflected in Psalm 2.
I tend to think of our calloused hearts much like going to the dentist having our teeth cleaned. Most of us miss certain areas flossing; the plaque buildup requires major scraping; reflossing; and deep treatments with flouride while we marvel at the disgusting smelly crap that has built up in between our teeth despite what we considered adequate care. Maybe it is only me.
Or; we could look at C.S. Lewis quoting Edmond in the Narnia Series (not sure which one) where Christ was compared to a lion.
The character expected a mild peeling away of the dead skin; instead it penetrated like heart surgery. Such imagery also was given to Aslan as to how deep he had to be wounded for us.
I would appreciate for those few that regularly respond to my posts to keep these discussions in prayer. I suppose I could put a separate prayer request up; but you guys know who I am talking about here. It would be good for this to permeate to a larger audience. I will; of course ask for prayer on that happening not for my own ego but because there are many who need to have a healthy assurance of salvation; and others who need to wrestle it out; as it were like Jacob with the Angel of God. How bad to we want the blessing; or how bad do we want Jesus? This is not wrong to pursue; as the persistent widow parable states. Sadly (speaking for myself) I spend much of my time asking for things that aren't His will and that is usually due to my heart condition rather than any obvious worldly desire as I wouldn't want to do something that stupid asking for a rebuke. I don't think I'm alone here; I sense that many have hearts that have turned cold and distant so that the concept of a loving God seems like an ecclesiastical topic on an esoteric plane rather than a daily living reality. Ugh; I suppose I'm worse off than I want to admit so I'll take any prayer I can get.
Living out what is truly our living Hope should be done with love; joy; peace; longsuffering and the like. I feel at this juncture that I should ask you guys to pray that my heart is in the same place with my mind; which I feel has been trained to function at some proficiency in meting out the Word as a Berean and in a balanced manner. I want to warn about emotions and things other than the Word and Spirit ( Romans 8:16) giving us assurance. Those who know me here are aware somewhat of my personal struggles living with unsaved parents at present; and scars from a divorce years ago. Isaiah 53:5 is something I feel I must live out more effectively.
Anyway; as I said I hope this generates further discussion on an important topic.
The Lord along with at least 2 Apostles lived with an understanding of their time of death approaching (Paul after being warned what would come to pass in Jerusalem; and Peter after Christ's questioning his love for Him). There was always care to the disciples in the case of Christ; and the church in regard to Paul's ministry in particular but certainly Peter and others as well which superceded their own sufferings. This takes Spirit filled living of course; as well as loving our enemies ( Matt. 5:44). Jesus showed the ultimate example of concern at the cross (See John 19:26-27) when John brought Mary into his home (indicating; of course that Joseph had passed away by this point along with his absence in this passage).
Our natural inclination would be to react as Matthew 16:22 as Peter did to the thought of Christ going to the cross if we are honest. Good Friday is only good to us if we go beyond some ritual commemorating suffering without understanding His substitutionary death results in our atonement and ultimately commenced in victory at the Resurrection. This is how ugly our sins were and of course it demonstrates how we were yet sinners and Christ died for us; His enemies ( Romans 5:8). Christ; of course chose to do the Father's will; He was in one sense the victim of circumstances; but these were predestined to bring us to glory. The Father in Isaiah 53:10 was pleased to crush His Son; we cannot comprehend this as to the Godhead; or as to how great His love is for us.
Therefore let us commit our whole lives to patiently serving God; and believing that He is a rewarder of those who do good and diligently serve Him. ( Heb. 11:6). May we minister to the Body as we are all adopted sons; and no longer of this world. Isaiah 53:11 shows how Christ will enjoy the result of His suffering; Psalm 91:16 may apply to our future as well.
Looking at the preceding verses; we see promises for those who are God's children to be hidden (compare with Colossians 3:3); and we shouldn't ignore the following statement in verse 2 about those who TRUST God. We also see promises which apply in general to God's covenant people such as Deuteronomy 7:15; and fulfilled by Christ in verses such as Isaiah 53:5. Ultimately; however these promises will be fulfilled in the Millennial Kingdom as may be indicated in verse 7; and in the Tribulation for those dweiling in heaven as indicated from verse 9.
Luke 10:19 shows how Christ fulfills certain promises in freedom from Satan's grip which is similar to what it states in Psalm 91:13.
The remainder of the Psalm could indicate Christ's reward as well as our own during the Millennial period as well. There will also be natural life expectancies (see Isaiah 65:22) that are vastly extended at that time.
As we look at things today; of course we still live with all of creation groaning as it were; such as indicated in Romans 8:22. Satan himself will get his due reward; ending once and for all his usurper role as a pseudo ruler; who ultimately fulfills God's prophetic plan; as it did when he entered Judas Iscariot so that all things could be fulfilled and Christ would die for our atonement ( Heb. 9:28; also read Isaiah 53 in its entirety). We are all in perishable bodies for a brief time; but we certainly can find ways to shorten our lives due to sin adding to our miseries. For now; pestilences and other things can be held back or mitigated; but that will not be helpful during the Tribulation. At that time the 144,000 will be supernaturally protected before God brings judgments upon the earth. May we live soberly in the fear of God
This verse reminds us that our lives are as it were ..."seated in heavenly places.".. ( Eph. 2:6). That considers who is our advocate "ever interceding for us" ( Heb. 7:25). As I have pointed out in previous posts; the sheer magnitude of the physical splendor of heaven as great as it is is dwarfed by its Creator. Surely Satan would want to covet all of heaven's grandeur for himself; as indicated in descriptions of his exalted place as worship leader in Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14. As great as the pattern in heaven that God Himself mandated to be followed in the earthly temple or representation of the heavenly tabernacle; it is His presence which is always preeminent. This is why although Jesus Himself was God in the flesh He was not possessing beauty in the way man would desire Him ( Isaiah 4:2). This is why such a bloody sacrifice could be something that actually pleased the Father ( Isaiah 53:10). So we need to both die to our old ways and all the things that attract the five senses above our desire to glorify God.
Much of the Kingdom of God has to do with obedience out of love ( John 14:15). Learning to love the ways of another is much like a woman who was betrothed and prepares for the marriage as scriptural parables as well as in some ways the Song of Solomon may indicate at a deeper level. We don't learn to love someone by cheating (such as illicit relations before marriage); or by focusing on vain actions that promote our own agenda. Service now certainly is a good way to get to know God's ways as well as prepare for heaven. This is utterly devoid of meaning to the unregenerate. Dying to ourselves is complete once we pass from this life; it is up to us to conform to His image or cling on to our old ways; the former brings great reward and is proclaimed and known by others; the latter brings great loss for us and eternal rewards as well. Let us do it now!
It seems; at least from much of my personal experience that kicking that perverbial can down the road is a rather common tactic for the unbeliever; namely that of death and judgment before our maker. Of course there are many other techniques as well; such as minimalizing the true hopelessness of our sin nature; attempting to steer all conversation on the evils of the world apart from our own accountability and sometimes obvious vices.
One of the blinders that we often embrace from our youth is some sentimental view of those of our own family or friends who have passed on; as being somehow in a better place. We do ourselves no favors here; for Jesus Himself didn't demonstrate any mercy for the rich man with the very real tale of the Lazarus Parable. It is the Lord which works in us who shine forth as the stars as part of the Body of believers which is the significant part of every saint of God that lasts on into eternity; albeit with different levels of glory and each being uniquely created to represent a particular blend of characteristics. We see this in the spiritual giftings in this life. Lest we "hyperspiritualize" any of this stuff; ALL aspects of a redeemed life from work to family to recreation as well as our "spiritual" duties such as witnessing; scripture reading; prayer; etc. are called to be a representative display of Christ's character in our lives.
Another important point here is that Christ was a man of sorrows ( Isaiah 53:3); as well as all other characteristics that chapter describes in great detail. There were many who admired him as a great teacher or prophet ( Matthew 16:13-20); but only those that understood that He was the Son of God (or the "I am") were truly saved. This shows why many didn't remain with Him; He wasn't afraid to challenge those would be disciples ( 2 Timothy 4:10; Luke 18:23; Matt. 19:22).
Another problem exists when we are afraid to confront national sins. See part 2)