Is the growing apathy apparent in both the US and Israel in the face of mounting threats further evidence that we are very close to the end of the present age described in the Bible?
A commenter over at Stan’s blog noted that Jesus foretold that people would grow increasingly apathetic, even about their own security, just before His return.
Matthew 24:37-39:
But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.
It is not that people today should stop living and hide in their basements, but there is a shocking lack of concern in Israel regarding the very real possibility of war with Syria, a war that by all accounts would include the use of long-range ballistic missile tipped with non-conventional warheads.
Most in Israel even seem to be completely unmoved by the fact that if a war happens, a majority of the population will be without updated gas masks and emergency medical kits. Even if there is only, say, a 5% chance of war, wouldn’t you still want to be prepared by at least being in possession of an updated gas mask? And yet, there is no outcry in Israel to get this done.
Indications from friends and acquaintances in the US is that the situation there is similar. The threat from global jihadists, nuclear-armed Islamic regimes and an increasingly hostile internal Muslim population is talked about, but most brush it off as something that will never affect them.
I can only speak first-hand about what is going on in Israel, but to me the situation just seems to make no sense. The almost complete lack of concern is nonsensical, especially for a nation that has faced more than one war of annihilation. That is, unless you view the situation in the context of Jesus’ words.
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257 comments so far ↓
1 Jennifer Blankenstein // Aug 10, 2007 at 4:09 pm
Hi,
Do you believe that the Jewish people have to receive Yeshua as
their Saviour, in order to go to Heaven when they die? And what do you believe about the Jewish people during the trib.
Thanks,
Jennifer Blankenstein
2 Michael // Aug 10, 2007 at 4:29 pm
Ryan,
While I understand the apathetic attitude and the want for the people of Israel to open their eyes to the looming threat, we need to remember what God has said regarding them. First in Romans 11:25 Paul made it clear since they rejected Jesus as Mssiah and gave Him to be crucified (Mt. 27:25), they would in part be blinded (porosis in Greek meaning: the mind of one has been blunted).
Romans 11:25 tells us they have become spiritually blind until the body of believers is gone;
For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
As much as Christians wish they would wake up, it just is not going to happen until 2/3 of the seed of Jacob (Israel) is killed (Zech. 13:8 & 9) just before Jesus returns seen in Zechariah 14:4.
In response to Jennifer, the “time of Jacob’s (Israel) trouble” IS what has been incorrectly labled the tribulation period. It is intended for Israel, but, any Gentile (non Israelite) who still has not become a born again believer will participate in what happens then.
God’s plan for Israel, however, is to bring them back into the new covenant through Jesus. (Jer. 31:13, Heb. 8:8, 12:24).
Hebrews 8:8;
For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:
YBIC,
Michael
3 Anne // Aug 11, 2007 at 1:48 am
Michael,
Romans 11:25 does not say ‘until the body of believers
are gone’
It says ‘until the fullness of the gentiles be come in.’
I do not see the former meaning the latter, nor do I take the latter to mean ‘a snatching away.’
I take this to mean that there is coming a time when God will see and know the ‘fullness’ of the gentiles time, as in; the last person who will recieve His Testimony and therefore His saving Grace. Or maybe even the last believer who is martyred for His faith in Yeshua or Messiah.
What God will do at this time is unclear. ‘We have a promise to keep; the meaning of which is to be faithful unto the end. Those who claim His promises and look for Him will be saved if there Heart awaits Him.
What is not exactly clear through the words of scripture,
will be exactly clear when we see Him, for His Testimony will be made manifest unto all and throughout all His followers.
Be careful in the meantime that you be not so sure like the Pharisees, the letter to dot and tittle.
This is God’s job to accomplish and He has great and wonderful ways, marvelous, past finding out.
What is impossible with man is possible with God.
‘He saved me, in my ignorance.’ and ‘in my sin’
and ‘in my blindness. I was pitiful. I cried out to Him and He heard my cry, and led me in the path of Righteousness and Truth, through Mercy and Love.
Praise His Name Forever.
Anne
4 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 8:10 am
Anne,
Your salvation is a wonderful thing, as is my own and any other lost sinner who comes to belief in Jesus.
If you studied His Word in it’s original Hebrew/Aramaic and Greek, as I do, you would gain a deeper understanding of what truly was spoken.
Romans 11:25 states in the portion you question: “…achri (until) hos (which) ho (the) pleroma (filling) twn (of the) ethnos (nations) eiserchomai (may be entering)…”
The Greek verb “eiserchomai” (ice-er’-khom-ahee) 1525, is used in describing the actual phyisical “entering” of a person, or persons, into either a physical place, an office as a public servant or a condition, meaning from the actual description referencing life itself as a new child, or a born again believer into newness of life.
It is used 186 times in the NT in siuch examples as follows.
Acts 3:8; And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered (eiserchomai) with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.
Romans 5:12; Wherefore, as by one man sin entered (eiserchomai) into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
Hebrews 4:6; Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter (eiserchomai) therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered (eiserchomai) not in because of unbelief:
You can choose to believe what you wish, however God’s Word as written by Paul stated “eiserchomai” which means the actual physical “entering in” to a different place from that which the subject is currently in. That “subject” is “ethnos” (nations or Gentiles).
The “porosis” (spiritual dumbness) that has fallen on Israel did so when they “cut off” (karath, Hebrew : to cut a covenant, cut a body part off, to destroy) Jesus and they became “porosis” until the “pleroma twn ethnos eiserchomai.”
For my understanding of Greek it means precisely what it states. When the full compliment of the Gentiles who are here that God has chosen to be the full compliment, outside of Israel, have “eiserchomai” His Kingdom and the “time of Jacob’s trouble” begins.
What God will do is quite clear to me. He makes the call for His Son the call His body home and the 3 1/2 year long period known as “Jacob’s (Israel) trouble” begins.
And as you said, be careful not to be as the Pharisees who Jesus warned in Matthew 16:3;
And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?
I’ll spend my time “rightly dividing” His Word in the original language, as I do day in and day out, that I might gain a better unbderstanding of precisely what His Spirit inspired men to pen, with His Spirit as my guide.
There is much more to be gained by knowing the actual words and there meaning, as given, not men’s or women’s, suppositions.
In Christ Jesus,
Michael
5 Renée // Aug 11, 2007 at 5:45 pm
Well, if the Israelis are apathetic, what can be said about the overall condition of the Church in the US? ZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzz
May our Redeemer have mercy on us.
6 Renée // Aug 11, 2007 at 5:48 pm
OT–
Btw, Michael, I really liked your replies in these comments, do you post at the forum you have linked your name to?
Please forgive the off topic question, and continue on with the topic at hand. ;-)
7 Jamie // Aug 11, 2007 at 6:10 pm
What does the Word of God say in the scripture following Roman’s 11:25? Does it say that once the fullness of the gentiles has come in that 2/3 of Israel will be destroyed? Does it say that once the fullness of the gentiles comes in that God’s retribution upon the Israelites will take place? Does it say that once the fullness of the gentiles comes in that Israel will face its time of trouble?
No, what it says is that once the fullness of the gentiles has come in, then the “WHOLE” of Israel will be saved. Do not simply listen to men, but read the Word of God. The Bible interprets intself. THere is no need of speculation of opinion.
8 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 6:40 pm
Rene’e,
Yes I do post there as I am the site OP. Feel free to drop in it’s free.
Jamie,
I fully realize what God’s Word states in verse 26. You still have to consider what God states in Zechariah 13:8 & 9 just before Jesus returns and sets up His Millenial Kingdom. He is seen in Romans 11:26 as the coming Deliverer that is seen again in Zechariah 14:4.
First however, 2/3 of Israel (seed of jacob) will be killed.
8: And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein.
9: And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.
Add to that the prophecy from Ezekiel 37:11-14 that shows AFTER the “time of Jacob’s trouble” God opens the graves of ALL ISRAEL and breathes life into the dead bodies. He puts His Spirit in them and brings the house of Judah and Israel together as one nation of people.
Ezekiel 36 and 37 tells us what God is going to do during that 1,000 years. After the 1,000 years are up, Satan is loosed and gathers Gog and his multitudes against Israel one last time and He sends fire to destroy them all as seen in ezekiel 38 & 39 and Rev. 20:7 & 8.
The 2/3 WILL die, just as God’’s Word states Jamie. And you are so right, about listtening to men, that is why I do not listen to the musings of men, only His Word as His Spirit gave men, and guides me now. In the original Hebrew and Greek.
Instead of critiquing me, perhaps a little more studying is in order on your part. Everyting I have stated is His Word, nothing added, nothing diminished.
YBIC,
Michael
9 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 6:44 pm
Here are the verses from Ezekiel 37:11-14 that prove God will restore ALL Israel even after they have died.
11: Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts.
12: Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.
13: And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves,
14: And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD.
God fully intends to save ALL Israel, even those already dead. He has stated they are His elect and He will save them all. Sadly, first 2/3 will die before He brings them back to life and resurrects them Jamie, just as His Word states.
YBIC,
Michael
10 Ryan // Aug 11, 2007 at 6:58 pm
Wow, I have never heard that passage interpreted in such a manner, Michael. Nearly every Bible scholar I have ever heard, both Christian and Jewish, read that passage to be talking about the Lord’s restoration of Israel as a nation-state in its God-given land.
The children of Israel are being brought forth from their graves of exile and being given flesh as a nation again.
Out of curiosity, how does your interpretation of that passage mesh with your belief that 2/3 of the Jews will be killed after all have been brought back here to Israel, and then will be resurrected and, according to verse 12, brought back to Israel again? They are already in Israel, where are they being brought from the second time?
11 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 7:38 pm
Ryan,
There isn’t one passage that says they will be killed after they are brought back to the land. You are looking at it backwards. Ezekiel 36 and 37 are a picture of what occurs during the 1,000 years. Zechariah 13:8 & 9 is at the end of “Jacob’s trouble” just prior to Jesus setting foot back on the mount of Olives seen in Zechariah 14:4;
And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east
Ezekiel 36 & 37 is the total restoration, not of UN mandated Israel, but, the body of people who are direct descendants of Jacob and the 12 tribes. That, and only that is Israel. As God states in Psalm 105:6 it is ONLY the seed from Jacob that is Israel. Not a bunch of people claiming to be Jews living in the UN mandated tract named Israel.
O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen.
As He states, the CHILDREN OF JACOB are His chosen, none other.
It matters not what men have been saying that because the UN mandated a piece of land on a map with man set borders they call Israel. It is not what God’s Word says Ryan.
If God has clearly stated He will kill 2/3 of Israel just before Jesus returns, then I’ll bank my beliefs on His Word, not so called Bible scholars who, BTW also falsely state there will be a third “temple of God” built in Jerusalem.
God will resurrect the dead in Christ as 1 Corinthians 15:52 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16. Why is it so inconceivable that He will do the same to His elect Israel? He has clearly stated He will save ALL Israel, that means quite simply ALL.
The body of believers in Jesus Christ will be resurrected and redeemed and given new incorruptible bodies. Israel (seed of Jacob) are still in their mortal bodies as God’s Word states.
He brings their dead bodies out of the grave LITERALLY and places new flesh on them and they live again. Why is that so hard to see?
The problem has come from false teachers making things up as they go. Stick close to what His Word states and you’ll see there is no need to suppose the prophecies of Ezekiel are anything but literal. God resurrects His elect and puts actual flesh on them and breathes His Spirit into them.
Have you ever asked yourself how could God save ALL Israel (seed of Jacob) if He did not raise those who are dead from the grave?
Israel is not yet back in the land God gave them, not ALL Israel. That will not occur until Jesus returns and the deliverer of Zion is in the land. That does not occur until AFTER the “3 1/2 years known as “Jacob’s trouble” and 2/3 have been killed.
I hope this answers your question Ryan.
BTW Rene’e I post under the name Aletheuo. It is Greek and means “speak the truth.”
YBIC,
Michael
12 Ryan // Aug 11, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Sorry Michael, I guess we are just going to have to agree to disagree on our interpretation of scripture. I am reading the Word, the same as you (and also in Hebrew) and I believe you are way off on several points.
Also, be careful about judging the “scholars” I left nameless in my post. Many of those scholars I referenced are personal friends of mine and men I know to be close to God. You don’t want to find yourself guilty of falsely judging a child of God. It is not right to disparage someone who is sincere in their devotion to the Lord and search for His truth just because their views and interpretations of scripture do not line up with your own.
I completely disagree with you on several points, but I will not condemn you just because I believe some of your interpretations are incorrect.
It seems that ultimately we are in agreement on the end result - the salvation of Israel and her return to the Lord - so I am confident that as His truth is further revealed to the whole earth, you and I will come closer together in our views. Until then, as Paul said, we will continue to see through a glass, dimly.
13 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Forgive me if I may have offended someone you personally know Ryan, that was not my intent.
Regardless of what you may believe as your interpretation, never forget God’s Word is not open for private interpretation as 2 Peter 1:20 states.
His Spirit living in us is the only source we are to use. If I see men who teach unverifiable Biblically, teachings that only fit the scenario that sells their book or tape, I will continue to stand against them.
I am interested in ONLY the truth.
YBIC,
Michael
14 Ryan // Aug 11, 2007 at 8:42 pm
I understand what you are saying, and can see that your heart is sincere. But understand that I too am only interested in God’s truth, and my reading and praying for the Lord to reveal that truth to me has led to a different view on certain aspects of what lies ahead.
Therefore, I would view your take on the situation as a private interpretation that does not line up with many other parts of God’s Word.
I am not going to condemn you as wrong, because I know that I, too, as a man will - again, as Paul cautioned - see through a glass, dimly until the Lord fulfills His Will completely.
I believe I am correct on many aspects of what is going to happen here. I believe the Lord has made those things clear to me, and I continue to always seek out His truth on these matters. I believe many fellow believers, such as yourself, have gotten these things wrong.
But, I also believe it is wrong to personally condemn a fellow believer over his or her view on these matters when they do not line up with our own, even if we must fight against what we view as false doctrines. We need to be careful not to personally judge one another, or others we do not know.
15 Michael // Aug 11, 2007 at 9:24 pm
I would ask this then Ryan, if you are so convinced I am in the wrong, can you show me Biblically those passages that support that idea?
I have listed the passages in context that support what I have stated. You have simply made statemments without any supportive Scripture saying it is your opinion I am in the wrong.
I am not judging anyone, I am doing precisely as we are told to do and that is judge what they say. We have been warned against false teachers and they abound.
I ask again, as a Brother in Christ if you believe I am wrong it is your duty to correct me. Can you do that with only Scriptural suooprt. If I am in the wrong and can be shown the error, I will be the first to admit my error and repent.
Are you willing to show me just where God’s Word verifies I am as you claim? You have my e-mail and are more than welcome to do so via that venue as to not tie up your board here.
YBIC,
Michael
16 Ryan // Aug 12, 2007 at 5:06 am
I will post a new blog entry regarding Jacob’s Trouble specifically later today.
17 Martin // Aug 12, 2007 at 10:02 am
This is a very insightful article that falls in line with my thoughts exactly. I follow the news headlines and prophecy as closely as I can in my free-time, and I cannot conceive of the world getting much worse or stage as being more prepapred than it is today before Jesus (Yeshua) returns for His church and the “man of sin” being revealed.
Thank-you for sharing this article with us.
18 Lee // Aug 12, 2007 at 5:59 pm
Greetings everyone….first i must say, i love this site..it’s interesting,educational and Ryan and ”most” of his regular commentors are caring,compassionate people….I do not know or understand most of the Teachings of The Bible,but i know it is The Word of God……i am curious about the Descendants of Jacob and The Twelve Tribes…aren’t the Christians Descendants of Jacob,if not by blood,by ..through believing in Christ??…..and is American/Christians belong to one of The Twelve Tribes??…Can someone please give me some answers..Thank You!
19 Michael // Aug 12, 2007 at 6:25 pm
Lee,
Interesting question. Even though the first “Christians” ie: Israelites like John, Mark, Matthew, Luke and the rest of the original twelve disciples, Christians in general are not “descendants” of Jacob.
Jacob had twelve sons which became the nation of people known as Israel. They took that name because that was the name God gave Jacob (Gen. 32:28, 35:10).
Those twelve families that descendaed from the bloodline of Jacob are what the Bible refers to as Israel.
Paul, the “apostle to the Gentiles” (Rom. 11:13) brought the message of salvation to the world outside of Israel after they rejected Jesus and gave Him to be crucified (Mt. 27:23-31).
Born again believers are “grafted in” (Rom. 11:17-24) to the promise given Abraham and are only considered adopted (Gal. 4:5) and of the seed of Abraham through Jesus making us heirs to all that is His. Galatians 3:29;
And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
American’s are more than likely from the offspring of Japhteth who by all known history was the 3rd son of Noah whose descendants after the flood settled on the coastal lands of the Mediterranean spreading north into Europe and parts of Asia. Since Americans are originally Europeans, it is most likely we are from the seed of Japheth.
That being the case and the fact that Abraham was from the seed of Noah’s son Shem, it is unlikely any American’s are related by blood to Abraham unless they are of course of the house of Israel and his twelve sons.
Hope this helps.
YBIC,
Michael
20 Al // Aug 12, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Greetings in Messiah Yeshua(Jesus).
I am a gentile believer in Messiah.
We will not understand how God will bring His kingdom to the earth until we understand certain basic principles regarding what is written in both the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Covenant Scriptures.
In both cases, the authors were Jewish, Luke possibly a gentile who converted to Judaism. This means that in order for us to understand the Scriptures properly, we should approach them from a Jewish or Hebrew perspective. This includes identifying with them( the Jewish people) if for no other reason, the Messiah Who shed His blood to make atonement for our sins was and still is Jewish.
Regarding the end times, the event known as the Rapture is actually the 1st resurrection(Revelation 20:4-6). I realize this is contrary to pretrib thinking. The 2 main passages related to the Rapture/Resurrection is I Thessalonians 4:13-18 and I Corinthians 15:50-56. In both cases this event is identified with the blowing of a trumpet or shofar. I Corinthians clearly states this is the LAST trumpet. The last trumpet recorded in scripture is found in Revelation 11:15-19. It clearly states God’s servants receiving their reward in conjunction with the beginning of His rule on earth. Notice this takes place after the two witnesses have been killed by the beast and have been resurrected. By the way, I do not believe Revelation is purely chronological but goes back and forth in relation to the three sets of judgments (seals, trumpets and bowls).
If we are truly His people then we will stand with Israel through to the end, even if it means paying the ultimate price. What do you think will speak more loudly: God removing Gentile believers from the earth for 3 1/2 to 7 years while the Jewish people endure another greater Holocaust or someone like Corrie Ten Boom and family who was willing to be led to the concentration camp rather than abandon the very people that produced the Messiah who died to pay for our sins? When the Jewish people see the Church refuse to submit to the Anti-messiah and his false prophet, instead celebrating the feasts of Passover, Pentecost(Shavuot), Trumpets and Tabernacles, they will want to know why. Then we can tell them about the Messiah Who fulfills all of the feasts that God instructed them to observe in anticipation of Messiah. It will be just like the time of the first Passover, with Moses and Aaron ( 2 witnesses) going before Pharoah (the antichrist) and judgments following, just like in Revelation. It will also be like the time of Elijah before King Ahab. Only this time God has reserved 144,000 not just 7,000.
I truly look forward to hearing all of your thoughts on these things.
Shalom in Messiah
Al
21 Jamie // Aug 13, 2007 at 1:23 am
There are many questions I have regarding interpreting Ezekiels dead bones prophecy as occurring in the Milenium. However, the least of these is Israel’s inability to see the one whom they pierced (in Zech) while they are still dead in physical death.
All that I know for certain is that God is faithful and does not lie. He is perfect and there is no shadow of turning in Him. Therefore, if He says that the whole of Israel will be saved, then I believe Him. If He says that blessed are those who partake of the first resurrection, then I believe Him.
I do not believe anything a man says or writes, no matter his qualification. I will consider what people say about God and His Word, but then I will prove or disprove it by His Word. If His Word proves it out, then I will accept it as truth. I am not saying that I am some scholar, only that I have come to rely upon God’s Word to interpret itself. As Ryan said, with each passing day I see through a glass dimly, yet I see more revelation each day that I look. And these days do appear, more and more each day, to be as the days of Noah.
22 Lee // Aug 13, 2007 at 2:34 am
Whether i agree or disagree…..i get alot of useful information from the comments on this site…Thank you Michael, ..Al i have to say from what little i know about the Scriptures,i agree with you….and yes Jesus was a Jew…i noticed Michael that you dont refer to Jesus and his Disciples as Jews,nor the Authors of The Bible…..you don’t think they were Jewish?
23 Charles Wesley // Aug 13, 2007 at 3:28 am
Ryan , I am not a Bible scholar but , I did have the opinion that God had not cast away all of those Jews that were blinded in part so that the Gentile could receive Jesus . The almighty power of God the Father could easily bring those people back and put flesh on their bones to have their chance with Jesus . After all he will resurrect the whole bunch of us in some manner at the Judgement .
24 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 5:43 am
Lee,
Why is there such an emphasis on the known fact Jesus and His disciples were Jews? If you read my post #19 you could see I know that and acknlowledge that. Galatians 3:28 should answer your question regarding just who we are in Jesus and it should eliminate the focal point of who’s a Jew and who is not a Jew. By faith in Jesus, as the Christ of God, it is moot.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And your question regarding the authorship of the Bible itslef is answered in 2 Timothy 3:16;
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
The Holy Spirit is the author of the written Word. Jesus was that Word made flesh. Those prophets, saints and apostles who penned those Words were inspired by His Spirit. All they did was put ink on paper as His Spirit inspired them.
Hopefully Lee, this will answer any questions you had regarding what I believe regarding Jesus and His disciples and their Jewishness and just Who is the author of the Word of God.
YBIC,
Michael
25 Marsha Carol Watson // Aug 13, 2007 at 6:01 am
Michael, I sense anger amidst pain in your posts. Someone has hurt you deeply….Remember, we are all Believers, so…we are one with Jesus Christ. We are all flesh and blood, and even with our very best efforts, we will not always agree. You are appreciated because you have a heart for our Lord and the Nation of Israel.
God bless your continued efforts and commitment to the Kingdom of God. We who are “grafted in” will all spend Eternity together in Heaven.
26 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Marsha,
I appreciate your comments but you couldn’t be further from the truth. I live in unfathomable joy knowing who I am in Christ and that He knew me before He created me, and yet loved me enough to choose me to gain inheritande into His kingdom.
The only thing that troubles me is the lies people have been taught and the sense of confusion that exisits among those who claim His blood.
We were warned over and again that “many” false teachers would come and deceive many. We have been warned of those who would “make merchandise” selling useless lies (2 Pet. 2:3) and are no different than the ones Jesus railed against and kicked out of His Fathers house in John 2:16;
And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise.
The body of born again believers is now that “house” as seen in 1 Cor. 3:16;
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
Ephesians 2:21
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
1 Petter 2:5;
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
We are now that “temple of God” and I get absolutely furious at the lies that abound within His “temple” because people spend more time reading the useless words published in useless books instead of studying His Word, being guided by His Spirit.
If there is any anger it is mixed wiith frustration that people miss the absolute freedom of knowing His truth. It seems every one needs to write a book to explain what they claim God told them to do when in truth, God has no respect whatsoever for that.
Ecclesiastes 12:12-14 says it clearly;
12: And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
13: Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14: For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
It isn’t a matter of agreeing or disagreeing Marsha, it is a matter of what is the truth. If it is not the truth as His Word states it in the original inspired text, it has little, if any value.
His Word is life itself and I am blessed that His Spirirt guides me to know that truth. I stand against any and all who claim to be what they are not. It should be a major concern to folks that Jesus warned in Mt. 7:22 & 23;
22: Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23: And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
I’ll not be found guilty of spreading lies.
YBIC,
Michael
27 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 1:50 pm
I ran out of space and I wanted to just say thank you for the kind words Marsha. I only am doing what His Spirit has to accomplish through me while I am here in this flesh.
That simply stated is to follow that Spirit and discover the truth within His Word that it might be brought into the light for all to enjoy.
There are so many issues that have been so falsely taught and abound now it is a wonder anyone even knows that Jesus Christ is the ONLY means of gaining salvation. Even that is becoming suspect within the false teachings of Church leaders today.
I care deeply for those who are my Brothers and Sisters but, the truth in His Word comes first, even if it slaps people in the face. The Pharisees of Jesus’ day were so incenced by the truth they flogged Him and hung Him on a tree for it, I don’t expect much more from all the false teachers who claim to be something they are not selling every sort of useless information, having their bank accounts as their god.
Jesus told us in Mt. 10:8-10 that freely we have received, freely we are to give. In verse 9 the Greek word that has ben translated to read “provide” is “ktaomai” and means “to procure for oneself.”
His Gospel message was given freely and it is to be shared freely. Not what is happening today as everybody seems to have figured out how to start a ministry selling useless information “in the name of God.”
Paul states in 1 Cor. 9:18 the gospel is “without charge” so the office he has been called to he will not abuse because of how money corrupts.
Paul’s admonition to the church in 1 Thess. 4:11 & 12 tells them they are to “work with their own hands” and not be found taking money as it will set those with nothing at odds. God’s work in spreading the truth in His Word, or evangelizing, is not meant to be a business.
Those who believe so need to read 1 Cor. 9, 2 Cor. 11, 1 Tim. 6 and open their eyes to the truth surrounding all those who market books, tapes and like “merchandise” seeking only to pad their bank accounts.
The biggest problem is the truth is not what they seek and the body has been deceived.
All I seek is truth and Jesus said He was the truth. His Word is Him and His Spirit guids me to that truth. It’s eitherall pure truth or not one word of it has value. And it is not up to private interpretation, only His Spirit can reveal the truth in His inspired Word.
That is all I seek.
YBIC,
Michael
28 Lee // Aug 13, 2007 at 3:15 pm
WOW….Thanks Michael for all those verses you posted,especially Ecclesiastes 12:12-14……up until 2-3 years ago,i never knew anything about Jews..Muslims…and only knew of Israel being a place somewhere…i really don’t know what happened or why,but i became obsessed with learning and wanting to know everything about them,and as you said,i am guilty of reading..reading…reading about Jews,Israel and Muslims/islam….but i think it’s done me mostly good,yet i do get confused alot from things,but everything i read,i look in Scriptures to ”try” to understand it…..Somewhere along these past couple years while learning about Israel and the Jewish People,i have developed this strange Love and Compassion for Them,i hurt and cry for Them…..I have no idea why…as i stated before,i am not very knowledged on The Bible,but i try so hard to learn…I don’t have a great Life,nor do i live the way i should….Although i have breath in me,i most of the time feel dead….I don’t understand any of this,why a person like me,who has nothing,who is not even educated or knowledge on The Bible,who does not even live a righteous life,why me an American,have these strange compassionate feelings for Israel and the Jewish People???..We have so many problems here in US,so why do i care more about whats going on in Israel?….can someone explain these confused feelings i have Please.
29 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 3:31 pm
Lee,
I understand what you feel. Never forget the most important thing regarding what you are feeling. Once you became a “born again” believer in Jesus as the Christ of God, He deposited His Spirit in you.
2 Cor. 1:22;
Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
At that point a number of wonderful things happened, not the least of which is you were now grafted into the promise given Abraham and became an equal heir in Jesus’ Kingdom.
Galatians 3:29;
And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
His Spirit lives in you Lee and His Spirit is guiding you to the feelings He has for His elect Israel (Isa. 45:4).
His Spirit knows what lies ahead and there is no doubt in my heart His Spirit groans for it to be over quickly. I sense His heart is broken beyond comprehension at what must come.
Stand strong in His Spirit Lee. He gave that to us to guide us and “comfort” us as we approach what is the inevitable “time of Jacob’s trouble” (Jer. 30:7). And what must occur to Israel as seen in Zech. 13:8 & 9.
Islam is the seed from Ishmael and Esau that so desperately wants what was covenanted to Isaac and Jacob. That is what we are seeing occur Lee. It’s the childrten of bondage by Hagar against the children of the promise in Israel by Jacob. (Ez. 35, Gal. 4).
I hope this helps a little.
YBIC,
Michael
30 Linda // Aug 13, 2007 at 8:57 pm
Michael,
Do you know when we (the Body of Christ) are leaving?
Linda
31 Susan // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:01 pm
I appreciate all that has been written on these pages. All of us bring our experiences, knowledge and gifts as we write, and I thank all of you. I have a question that I have been considering: Because we gentile believers have been “grafted in” to the family of God (Jewish believers), do we share a part of the events we all anticipate for Israel? It seems that the Muslims single out “Jews and Christians” as people of the book (Bible) and the jihad they preach and engage in is against both. So are we separated as “Family of God”, or are we spiritually one? I have a feeling it is the later, but then, I don’t know Hebrew or Greek. God knows and loves us all, no matter who is right, because He understands that in some respects, all of us have error in our thinking. We are human, and our brains are only about 6 or 8 pounds. Perfect understanding belongs to God. How worthy is He!!!
32 Linda // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:05 pm
Susan,
God says that “loves us all” as you say in a very specific manner, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” But any many to please God the man must have faith. The only way to get faith is by hearing and hearing by the Word of God–you have to believe what He says. Yahshua said that no man comes to the Father but by Him–meaning Yahshua.
Linda
33 Linda // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:09 pm
I made several errors that make what I wrote difficult to understand so I am reposting my reply to Susan with corrections:
God says that He “loves us all” as you say in a very specific manner, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” But for any man to please God the man must have faith. The only way to get faith is by hearing and hearing by the Word of God–you have to hear and believe what He says. Yahshua said that no man comes to the Father but by Him (meaning Yahshua).
34 Lee // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:18 pm
Thank you Michael so much,that verse Galatians 3:29 i never seen it before,i really needed to see it,but now it makes me still confused about something, Seems You and many Other Christians believe that so many Jews are going to be killed during the ” time of Jacobs troubles ”, but if Christians are also of the seed of Abraham thru Christ Jesus,doesnt that mean that Christians as well as Jews will die ? I believe so,but am confused on this ,like so many other things,Also i agree with you on muslims being the evil seed…I am curious of your personal oppinion on the ” palestine ” Arabs having any rights to the Land of Israel?…I think there is no such thing as a race called Palestine,nor does any Muslim have a right to the Land of Israel….My Countries leaders{AMERICA} will suffer greatly for ripping apart the Land of Israel,..just as Israels own leaders will cause great sufferings
35 Lee // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:24 pm
My questions is for everyone,not just Michael,cause i know there is a great controversy over the opinions concerning that only Jews will be killed during that troublesome time,i think Christians and Jews will die
36 Michael M. // Aug 13, 2007 at 9:42 pm
Michael,
I have heard many men interpret the word of God, and you come close to the best I have come across. For those looking for a more perpetual interpreter, Pastor Arnold Murray from the Shepherd’s Chapel is wonderful. He studies and translates wonderfully from Greek and Hebrew, and his Bible studies are profound and truthful. Google Shepherd’s Chapel for free online bible studies.
Michael, the way you interpret the word is very correct. You portray God as forgiving, loving, perfect, and all-knowing.
God wants us to love Him. He does not want us to read his word so that it can control our lives. He wants us to follow Him, and wants us to ask for His guidance. Let the Lord guide you. Many people today ‘do’ things because they believe they should because they are Christian. But true believers of the TRUE word will do things because they are lead by the Word. They know that Christ lead a perfect life, and while we will never be perfect, we still know who will judge us all in our death. Do not get caught up in your actions for the Lord, but be concerned with your faith and how it motivates you to live your life.
Remember, the Lord said that we will be judged according to Him and His ways. We are not perfect, but we as believers should do things because we know the Lord would have wanted it so. Do things in His name, and do them with love for Him in your hearts. God wants us to love Him, and He loves all of us, too.
Today, as Michael stated very properly, there are many men who will preach ‘falsehoods’, but you must remember that God’s word is the only word that counts. It is dangerous to profess falsehoods from the Bible. God will recognize deceiptful men; do not doubt this. But God also has even forgotten some of your sin(Job). What a beautiful thing His love for us is.
Michael, I cannot provide text references in the accuracy you can. But I am sure that the things I have said are true. Bless you for teaching and knowing His word. God Bless your love for Him.
37 Peter Gerard // Aug 13, 2007 at 10:03 pm
I have read the comments regarding the end of days and the return of Jesus.
Your all nuts.
IMHO
38 Lee // Aug 13, 2007 at 10:15 pm
MICHAEL forget my question regarding your opinion on the ” palestine ” people,i have been reading much in your site…i know where you stand>hugs, BTW great site
39 Delores O. // Aug 13, 2007 at 10:23 pm
Thank you Michael for your sound Spirit. You ARE listening and recieveing in truth. For the first time ever, I finally read the same understanding of ABBA YEHOVAH’s word here on this site. Michael, thank you, my brother. By studing the Hebrew and the Greek you DO get the whole truth. We have been so mislead by men’s doctrines, its unbelievable the state of heart and mind we are in. This shows us HIS mercy upon all of us!!! Continue in HIS strenght of HIS word and in the dwelling of HIS Spirit in your body. Continue to be that Watchman and show, tell, teach, share and write HIS truth in all purity. We have lost that purity because like sheep we follow many men and all their doctrines. Let the Spirit teach and show us all things. Let us all share what we have been told. Thats how we see that the Spirit is moving in all of us with the same understanding. Remember, its by HIS Spirit this will come to be and is now happening. Shalom to all…..Simcha in Texas.
40 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 10:48 pm
Linda,
I wish I had that answer but only God knows when He will tell His Son to call His body home. I wish it were yesterday.
Lee,
Let me see if I can addres your questions one at a time. The “time of Jacob’s trouble” is just that. Jacob IS Israel as are his seed. Christians are grafted in to the promise of Abraham, not the seed of Jacob. We are made of he seed of Abraham which comes before Jacob.
And no we will not be here to participate in what we have been saved from. That being ANY wrath (1 Thes. 5:9-11).
We are now His body and the temple of God’s Holy Spirit. There is no Biblical evidence we will be here during that time. As I mentioned above regarding Romans 11:25, the Greek word “eiserchomai” which was translated to say “be come in” is a verb meaning to physically leave one place and enter into another.
Your question about both Jews (Israel) and Christians being killed during thsi time is correct. However those you are calling Christians are not believers until AFTER the “harpazo.” That is clear from Rev. 20:4.
The following from Jeremiah 30:11 gives a bit more insight into what must happen to Israel as spoken to in verse 7 and Zech. 13:8 &9;
For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.
God states He will correct Israel and will not levae them altogether “unpunished.” The Hebrew word translated as “unpunished” is “yacar” (yaw-sar’) 3256 and means: to discipline, correct
God will discipline them and what is so sweet is Ezekiel 36 & 37 shows He will “save ALL Israel” by bringing them ALL out of their graves and breathing newness of life into them. Not one human being of the bloodline of Israel will ever be removed from the presence of God eternally. He saya ALL and Eze. 37:11, 39:25 and 45:6 says the WHOLE HOUSE OF ISRAEL and I’ll bank on God meaning just what He said. The Hebre word use in all three verses translated to “whole” is “kol” (kole” 3605 and means: totality, everything. So “kol” of the seed of Jacob known as Israel will be saved.
Michael M.,
Thanks brother for the kind words. I only type the words His Spirit does the guiding so, I cannot take credit for much of anything. As I said, I only want people to dig and question and learn the wonderful simplicity in His truth.
YBIC,
Michael
41 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Lee,
Thanks Sis, enjoy the site.
Peter Gerarad,
I’d rather be “nuts” in love with Jesus Christ and have His Spirit living in me than anything this world offers. BTW, you have any reasons why we’re all “nuts” or do you just enjoy saying stuff like that?
Thanks again Dolores. May the Lord bless all of you.
YBIC,
Michael
42 Chanah robinson // Aug 13, 2007 at 11:07 pm
shalom
I have question when it say in
Zechariah 13:8
8 In the whole land,” declares the LORD,
“two-thirds will be struck down and perish;
yet one-third will be left in it.
Is it only the Yisraelites or does this includes the Arabs?
And when reading Hosea
Hosea’s Wife and Children
2 When the LORD began to speak through Hosea, the LORD said to him, “Go, take to yourself an adulterous wife and children of unfaithfulness, because the land is guilty of the vilest adultery in departing from the LORD.”
3 So he married Gomer daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son.
4 Then the LORD said to Hosea, “Call him Jezreel, because I will soon punish the house of Jehu for the massacre at Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of Israel.
5 In that day I will break Israel’s bow in the Valley of Jezreel.”
6 Gomer conceived again and gave birth to a daughter. Then the LORD said to Hosea, “Call her Lo-Ruhamah, for I will no longer show love to the house of Israel, that I should at all forgive them.
7 Yet I will show love to the house of Judah; and I will save them—not by bow, sword or battle, or by horses and horsemen, but by the LORD their God.”
8 After she had weaned Lo-Ruhamah, Gomer had another son.
9 Then the LORD said, “Call him Lo-Ammi, for you are not my people, and I am not your God.
10 “Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ they will be called ’sons of the living God.’
11 The people of Judah and the people of Israel will be reunited, and they will appoint one leader and will come up out of the land, for great will be the day of Jezreel.
I had read it but never fully understood what it said not until GOD told me to re-read it yes then I understood.
If you read in connection with Jeremiah
Jeremiah 12
14 This is what the LORD says: “As for all my wicked neighbors who seize the inheritance I gave my people Israel, I will uproot them from their lands and I will uproot the house of Judah from among them.
15 But after I uproot them, I will again have compassion and will bring each of them back to his own inheritance and his own country. 16 And if they learn well the ways of my people and swear by my name, saying, ‘As surely as the LORD lives’-even as they once taught my people to swear by Baal—then they will be established among my people.
17 But if any nation does not listen, I will completely uproot and destroy it,” declares the LORD.
Shalom and love b’Shem YESHUAH
43 Michael // Aug 13, 2007 at 11:28 pm
Chanah,
Good question. If you’ll look back up in Zechariah 13:1 you’ll see just who God is speaking to.
In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.
The house of David is all of Judah. David is from the line of Judah so it more than likely is only speaking of the bloodline of Israel through Judah which Ishmael is not part of.
Remeber God told Jacob in Deuteronomy 1:8 He would give His promised land to Israel (Jacob) and his seed ONLY.
Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them.
I do not see any Islamic Arabs as they are enemies and will be dealt with differently. I hope this has helped.
YBIC,
Michael
44 Elkanah // Aug 14, 2007 at 12:30 am
To Michael (aletheuo),
Your zeal is truly admirable, but have you considered the fact that there is only One Who can claim to ‘be totally truthful’? You spread among people what YOU believe to be true. However, like the rest of us mortals, you rely heavily on information provided by others. After reading your comments I can see that your strength comes from teaching with a heavy hammer - not with gentl,eness and wisdom. Loving to tell the truth is one thing, but telling the truth in love is another. You place great emphasis on the King James Bible, yet it is the book that a) demonised the Jewish people, and b) has so many translation errors that it is a liability not an asset to the Christain church. It seems to me that your knowledge of Greek and Hebrew is entirely from Strong’s Concordance, which sets you high above most Christians who do not have one. Yet, you disparage so many people by setting yourself up as the only source of wisdom.
This is a pity, because a man of zeal has an enormous amount to offer to a lukewarm Church. Sadly, your zeal is NOT according to wisdom.
Perhaps you should study what Micah 6:8 is all about before proceeding with your admonitions and corrections. You have many very interesting things on your website, but also much error and this is dangerous dear brother.
Please remember that there are others too who have a love for the
Word of God and have spent much time in actually learning to speak Hebrew and Greek .
I am approaching old age and I have discovered with much pain that there is always someone who is wiser than I and with more understanding and knowledge. And I too love the truth!
45 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 1:01 am
Elkanah,
Forgive me if I do not follow what it is that you are suggesting.
I use the Geneva Bible and the KJV is only a reference tool. I do not solely use the Strongs Concordance I use both Hebrew and Greek references beyond what is on my site.
You make accusatory statements yet not one letter of correction nor one verse that bears out what you are saying.
Your suggestion I should study Micah 6:8 is relatively moot as the admonition of Micah 6 is God’s plea to Israel and has not one thing to do regarding what we have been discussing here.
You make claims what I have stated on the site I operate has “much error.” Then as a professing Brother in Christ, if in fact you are, it is your responsibility to correct and reprove me. Not with stinging accusations but as you state, in love and trth using God’s Word to do so. Just as 2 Timothy 3:16 states.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
Anyone can make the statements you have accusing others and then just walk away. I am open for you to show me the errors, if you can. Are you enough of a Brother to do so?
I am nearing 60 years of age myself and study day in and day out as I am retired so I have all day.
YBIC,
Michael
46 Jeri // Aug 14, 2007 at 1:23 am
To all of you ,Please read Genesis48;11thru-19 and please read verse 19 again, and again, then read Exodus12:37-38-40 the mixed multitude was called Israel to ; so could the one;s beening called out be from the house of Ephraim, that was scattered all thru the nation;s just a throught, and the way that I understand that we all will go thru the tribulation to test us to see if we will stand up to satan and be true to the living G-D that we may live with him for all time. just as the childred of Israel was tested in the wilderness so we all will be tested. and to understand the HOLY SCRIPTURES you have to understand the Hebrew mind and their ways in Bible times. so study all to see if they say the same thing, read Isaiah 8:20
47 Al // Aug 14, 2007 at 2:06 am
Michael,
You wrote above that “God will discipline them and what is so sweet is Ezekiel 36 & 37 shows He will “save ALL Israel” by bringing them ALL out of their graves and breathing newness of life into them. Not one human being of the bloodline of Israel will ever be removed from the presence of God eternally. He saya ALL and Eze. 37:11, 39:25 and 45:6 says the WHOLE HOUSE OF ISRAEL and I’ll bank on God meaning just what He said. The Hebre word use in all three verses translated to “whole” is “kol” (kole” 3605 and means: totality, everything. So “kol” of the seed of Jacob known as Israel will be saved.” My question to you is: Does this include the majority of the Sanhedrin i.e. Annas and Caiphas who rejected Messiah and turned Him over to the Romans to be crucified?
You also mentioned that there is neither Jew nor Greek in Messiah. It is true that your personal salvation does not hinge on what race or culture a person comes from. Salvation is found only in the shed blood of Yeshua thru faith that He paid the price and made perfect atonement (kipporim) for all who repent and confess He is Lord.
However, the distinctions between Jew and Gentile, male and female are there for a reason. We still need men and women to procreate, in response to God’s very first commandment to humanity- be fruitful and multiply. In like manner, we need to understand God made specific promises to the Jewish people that will not only bless them but we who are called from the nations to be part of His Body or grafted into His believing community. We are part of the commonwealth of Israel. Why? Because we are followers of the King of Israel, Yeshua. This is why we should not disconnect the Church from Israel.
Someone once put it this way. Suppose King George ruling the British Empire during the 19th century discovers that after establishing followers throughout the many nations in his empire, England the mother country has rejected him as king. However, some subjects throughout the empire from all of these nations continue to acknowledge him as king. Because he is the rightful king and he loves his native English he will attempt to regain his throne in England. He also loves those subjects throughout the empire who still revere him. They are considered citizens alongside with the native English.
This is but a small parallel to the relationship between Yeshua, Israel and the believers(Church). He is still and always will be the rightful King of Israel. A small minority of Jews acknowledge Him as Messiah Ben David. They represent the believing remnant of Israel. The apostle Paul addresses this in Romans 9, 10 and 11. Those of us who are gentiles and also acknowledge Him as King of Israel are considered co-heirs with them. This is God’s plan. To bless the nations of the world thru Israel and her true King, Yeshua. But we need to acknowledge Him exactly this way so that one day all of Israel will as well. Shalom in Messiah, Al
48 jeff // Aug 14, 2007 at 2:10 am
READ WITH ME EXODUS 34: 12, MOSES WARNING ISRAEL ” TAKE HEED TO THYSELF, LEST THOU MAKE A COVENANT WITH THE INHABITANTS OF THE LAND WHITHER THOU GOEST, LEST IT BE FOR A SNARE IN THE MIDST OF THEE”.
49 Tov // Aug 14, 2007 at 3:17 am
Excellent dividing — study is rewarding. I would like to point out that the Lord has exhorted us to stand firm against the wiles of the devil. [eph. 6:11]…. because your adversary the devil walks around like a roaring lion seeking whom to devour. [1Peter 5:8]. The human ego is perhaps a paradox; but it’s part of the package. It is so dominant in us, it can even take over in the middle a theological exchange, where hearts are sincere and full of passion. Compare 1 Cor. 13:1,2, to John 21:15–17.
YBIC
50 Herman L. Pickens // Aug 14, 2007 at 5:02 am
Upon reading all these nice letters in search of truth I was reminded of an occasion when I was both a young man and a young Christian in which I disagreed with a man who was trying to convert me to his church. Although I don’t remember the actual scripture it seemed to me it was one of those proof texts the special interpretation of which was important to his persuasion. Anyway, I disagreed with him and he accused me of “making a judgement”. He assumed his interpretation was truth and mine was in error and had uttered a judgement in response to his truth and God would punish me.
Now I’ve heard it said that if two people disagree over a scripture passage or Bible concept then one is wrong, or the other is wrong or both are wrong. Because God is right and the scripture still contains the same truth that it had before it was considered by these two lowly creatures of limited intelligence and sinful hearts.
But, you say, what if both are Christians and both ask for guidance from the Holy Spirit in interpreting the scripture and they still disagree? Well, the above is still true and the heart is desperately wicked. Maybe one or both have an agenda or preconceived notions about the true meaning of the passage that distort the truth. How can we always know our own heart? Look at the falling out of Paul and Peter. Also Paul and some of his co-workers, the latter because the Holy Spirit had other plans.
Now regarding the credentials of those whow would interpret the Bible. The Bible tells me I don’t need anyone other than the Holy Spirit to “lead me into all truth”. I can take my 1611 KJV and ask God to explain any part of it and He will. Is my understanding inferior because I use Word of God in the “King’s” language and not in the language in which it was written? Would it be superior if I knew all of these languages? Or would it be more than adequate for my needs in either case? This is not to downplay knowledge and skill of languages and their advantages and usefulness in Christian service and Christian education.
But avoid being dogmatic, watch the pride, read 1st Corinthians again, search the scriptures, be tolerant, listen to the other guy. If he can change your mind with an interpretation of scripture that weaves seamlessly into the whole fabric of the Bible then you should embrace what he says.
Herman
51 Anne // Aug 14, 2007 at 6:14 am
Dear Herman,
Thankyou for your views. I believe the Holy Spirit gave you a very special annointing to speak that Truth in Wisdom with Love. You have my appreciation.
Thanks be to God.
Isaiah 42:21
It was the Lord’s Pleasure for His righteousness sake to magnify instruction and revelation and Glorify them.
Now… if I can share with you good people a bit of my joy and humor from last night, just to lighten up a bit…
A tedious part of growing old for me has been how my eyesight has become increasingly worse. I don’t know how much worse, the last time I had them checked was five yrs ago. I just keep going to the Dollar Store and picking up glasses that magnify. I am using 2.25 now because so much of the written word is a total blur. They are really getting bad. No kidding. I can tell
because when I watch videos, I go without for a bit, then decide to put them on to see what I am missing.
Definition of object…….blur…blur…
Last night I went outside at around mid-night and was
flabergasted to look into the Heaven’s and see the stars shining forth so bold. Ooodles and oodles of stars. Isn’t it just amazing that our eyes can see hundreds of thousands of light years away, or miles. And add to that…..without my glasses; there was double vision of the glory of the Heavens. Twice as many stars as you might see.
‘Blessings in de-skies.’ Be sure to watch for them.
Anne
52 Marsha Carol Watson // Aug 14, 2007 at 6:26 am
Michael, you are still on the offensive. I do appreciate the scriptures and your comments. I love God’s Word. It is life and truth. It brings peace, love and joy to all who will take the time to read and study its truths. I have been an almost 2o year student of Bible Propecy. Eschatology is a very interesting study.
Michael, have you ever heard the Holy Spirit speak to you in an audible voice? I have. It was on December 4, 1999. When I received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit in 1992, it was the happiest time of my life. Since then, many wonderful things have happened in my life. I not only received the joy of the Lord, but several gifts of the Spirit, that have proved invaluable to my life, and my witness as a soul winner, but I have only heard the Holy Spirit speak audibly once. I hope I will again in my lifetime. He speaks to me in my spirit and reveals things to me…for this I am truly thankful. I have had one vision, it was in 1993,.I have had many dreams that He reveals things to me. The vision prepared me for something very important that was coming in my life.
So Michael, I keep my hand in the Hand of my Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ, because He has been…He is…and He always will be my Redeemer. “Who the Son sets free is free indeed.”
Heavenly Father, I thank you for Michael, and for his desire to serve you with all of his heart. Father, reveal yourself to Michael, as only you can do, and clear away anything that he might be confused about, so that he can reach his fullest potential in service to You and Your Kingdom. In the power and authority of the name of Jesus Christ, my Saviour and Lord, I pray. amen and amen
53 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 12:54 pm
Al,
First let me say I appreciate the discourse. It is how we learn. You asked:
Does this include the majority of the Sanhedrin i.e. Annas and Caiphas who rejected Messiah and turned Him over to the Romans to be crucified?
Annas and Caiaphas are mentioned only four times in the Scriptures and there is no proof they weere from the house of Judah or Israel. I fully understand that the priests were to be of the Levites making them of the house of Israel, however it is readily apparent they were practicing un-Godly activities and pagan rituals.
Jesus called them “hypocrites” and if He was using the exact meaning of the word, it is more then probable they were precisely what the word in Greek stands for. That being the Greek word “hupocrites” and meaning: actor of an assumed character. It is probable Jesus was saying they were not what they claimed to be. There is no other definitive way of knowing by the Scriptures.
God’s word says “ALL” (kol) of Israel will be saved so I am taking His Word at face value. Not my interpretation, precisely what His Spirit led men to record.
You also stated we are part of the commonwealth of Israel and I wholeheartedly disagree. The “commonwealth” of Israel is the nation state that was created by the UN in 1948 and has not one thing to do with the Israel God speaks of.
Israel is a “nation” (gowy) of people, not a land mas outlined by a UN resolution. Israel and the land God promised them are not one in the same. Every passage that speaks to “the land of Israel” speaks to that which is the ‘ara` or ‘erets that is the possession of the people called Israel. The land is the land, Israel is a people.
Nowhere in Scripture are we referred to as a part of Israel. The only inference states born again believers who by faith are “in Christ” are now of the seed of Abraham and inheritors of the promise. We are not inheritors of the land God promised Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, we are inheritors of the heavenly Jerusalem as seen in Galatians 4:26. Our inheritance is a spiritual inheritance of the Kingdom of God seen in James 2:5;
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
The statement made by Paul from Colossians 3:11 or Galatians 3:28 is not speaking of the flesh we presently inhabit. It is speaking to a Spirtual being that has been “born again” and is indwelt by His Spirit just as Colossians 3:10 & 11 state. Belivers in Jesus as the true Christ of God have His Spirit placed in them replacing our old spirit and are new creations.
Marsha,
Yes I do hear His Spirit audibly. He speaks to me almost regularly and because His Spirit lives in me, it is an ongoing spiritual conversation as 1 Thes. 5:17 calls us to do.
Thank you for the kind words and if I sound defensive, it is only that I defend His truth as it was inspired.
YBIC,
Michael
54 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 1:11 pm
Ryan,
I was wondering if you were going to start a sepearate blog on Jacob’s Trouble as you stated? I believe it would be great to look into that subject since so many seem to overlook it when studying Israel and end times prophecy.
YBIC,
Michael
55 Ryan // Aug 14, 2007 at 1:13 pm
I will open a new thread specifically regarding Jacob’s Trouble in the coming days.
56 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 1:28 pm
Thanks. It should be very interesting.
YBIC,
Michael
57 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Al,
I wanted to add one thing regarding your question about the possibility the Sanhedrin and Annas and Caiaphas. If, in fact, they were truly from the line of Levi, making them of the “whole house of Israel” then it goes without saying, they too would be resurrected and saved.
I got to thinking and praying on the subject and it dawned on me that even at the cross did not the Lord say:
Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. Lk. 23:34.
And since we are told those who gave Him to be crucified were there, He was asking God to forgive them. We know it was “all the people” who gave Him up as recorded in Mt. 27:25;
Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children
So it would seem to me that even if the entire Sanhedrin were truly of the house, or lineage, of Jacob (Israel) they too will be saved. That’s what God’s Word says in Romans 11:26 and Ezekiel 37:1 & 39:25.
If they were “hupocrites” and were merely acting the part of Levite priests, which is possible yet highly unlikely, then I do not see one verse that would include them in the house of Israel and the promise from God. Not unless they became believers after they crucified Him, but, we just do not know the answer to that.
Great question though. Things like that get one thinking, thanks.
YBIC,
Michael
58 David // Aug 14, 2007 at 8:06 pm
I for one, believe that the entire world is blind as to what is coming Our way.
It is “My Belief”, that we are now entering The Tribulation / Time of Jacob’s Trouble, (They are both one & the same).
I also believe that “Michael // Aug 10, 2007 at 4:29 pm” is in vast error in his post, for Romans 10: & 11: is addressed to Israel, & not the “Jews” only. In fact,……….when the book of James was written after the book of Acts, James made it clear that at that time, not all of Israel was present in the land of Israel!:
Jam 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
The House of Israel & The House of Judah have yet to be re-united >> Hebrews 8: & these verses also confirm that:
Heb 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:
Heb 8:11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.
IS NOT PREACHING THE WORD STILL GOING ON?
Ezekiel 37: gives even more insight:
Eze 37:19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand.
Eze 37:20 And the sticks whereon thou writest shall be in thine hand before their eyes.
Eze 37:21 And say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the children of Israel from among the heathen, whither they be gone, and will gather them on every side, and bring them into their own land:
Eze 37:22 And I will make them one nation in the land upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king to them all: and they shall be no more two nations, neither shall they be divided into two kingdoms any more at all:
Eze 37:23 Neither shall they defile themselves any more with their idols, nor with their detestable things, nor with any of their transgressions: but I will save them out of all their dwellingplaces, wherein they have sinned, and will cleanse them: so shall they be my people, and I will be their God.
Eze 37:24 And David my servant shall be king over them; and they all shall have one shepherd: they shall also walk in my judgments, and observe my statutes, and do them.
Eze 37:25 And they shall dwell in the land that I have given unto Jacob my servant, wherein your fathers have dwelt; and they shall dwell therein, even they, and their children, and their children’s children for ever: and my servant David shall be their prince for ever.
NO Brothers & Sisters,………….The Time of Jacob’s Trouble is soon to fall upon America, Great Britain, & the land of Israel.
59 outspoken2 // Aug 14, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Between Bush and Rice, Israel has not the friend it once had. America has rejected GOD on to many times, so GOD has let America have a very unstable mind unable to make sound judgment calls. Bush and Rice are sleeping with the enemy for the sake of OIL. REPLACEMENT THEOLOGY has done it’s damage and America will suffer for it.
60 Michael // Aug 14, 2007 at 9:09 pm
David,
I’m curious about your statement:
I also believe that “Michael // Aug 10, 2007 at 4:29 pm” is in vast error in his post,
How so? Can you be more specific or is this just a blanket statement you like?
You stated you believe we are heading into the “time of Jacob’s trouble.” What evidence is there to substantiate that?
I am not trying to attack you, I am tryng to understand the statement you made because I do not follow what you are attempting to illustrate.
Another individual swiped at me with the same response and when asked to at least give me the benefit of where I am in error, as claimed, no response has been forthcoming. It’s pretty easy to say “you are in error because I say so” but how about some evidence other than just a blanket accusation?
As I have stated before, If I am in error then as a proclaiming Brother in Christ, how about helping me out with a little more explanation?
YBIC,
Michael
61 Peter // Aug 14, 2007 at 9:46 pm
I think there is a confusion here on who is Israel and who is the Church cause I notice a lot of post where there is a separation or replacement theology.
-There is a typical replacement theology in the church and I can see a few hold to this belief that Israel and the Church are different or separate of each other.
-The scripture does not distinguish between the church and Israel… in fact the word ‘Church’ is derived from the Septuagint(Greek OT)… the word being ‘ekklesia’ which means in-gathering or community. With a careful study of the Tanakh you will find that the so called word ‘Church’ or ‘ekklesia’ is written of more in the Tanakh than in the New Testament and it always refers to Israel… uh ohHolds shield up to block against rocks lol :P.
-Please understand me, I do not believe in replacement theology I believe in being ‘Grafted In’. Let me give an example: A bus named Israel is traveling down the road with a bunch of Israelites on it and this bus is 3000 years old. Its passing by and I decide to join them(Having faith in the Messiah being Grafted In). NOT REPLACE.
-There is something we can take from this verse that is very important. In this verse Paul defines for us what a Israelite is:
Romans 9:4 who are Israelites, to whom belongs the adoption as sons, and the glory and the covenants and the giving of the Law and the [temple] service and the promises.
-Adoption belongs to Israelites, The Glory of God belongs to them, The covenants including the new covenant and all previous, The giving of Gods inspired word, The temple services (atonement) and the promises including the most important the Messiah.
-The new covenant stated both in Jeremiah 31:31-33 and Hebrews 8:8-12. Who was the covenant made with,,, the House of Israel and House of Judah. It was not made with the Gentiles. So what hope do we have .. im a Gentile. Well through the Messiah we are grafted in to Israel.
-Another thing to keep in mind is that The New Jerusalem is a memorial for Israel there is not a gentile gate or a church gate. It is not a memorial for the church sorry for those who had there hopes up.
-Throughout the biblical history gentiles have always been able to join Israel… it is nothing new. Examples Ephraim and Manasseh were adopted into Israel and were given two of the greatest blessings. Caleb was a gentile and was not only grafted in he was appointed leader over the tribe of Judah. There are so many more to name and obvious examples throughout all of scripture stating this.
God only has one people that is Israel (consisting both of Physical descent and non physical)
I hope this helps a few of you out and even now look at a lot of scriptures people so easily spit out and a lot of those will fall to the ground. Such as the pretrib rapture… Church is in Heaven while Israel is down one earth two thumbs down
Peter
62 Dr. Vinod Joseph // Aug 14, 2007 at 11:32 pm
All this points to the fact that we are racing everyday to the end of the age , and the important thing is that we should be ready for the second coming of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.
63 Charles Wesley // Aug 15, 2007 at 2:57 am
AMEN Dr. Vinod Joseph
64 Marsha Carol Watson // Aug 15, 2007 at 6:09 am
Dr. Vinod Joseph, Thank you for reminding us of this great truth. You have doted every “i” and crossed every “t”.
I am excited about His forthcoming….I long for His appearing. After my stepfather died in 1996 (my father died in 1964–a military vet) my mother was so broken and grieved….both my father and my stepfather were most precious to us. They both died on July 24th all those many years apart. We thought this had to be more than coincidence…
Mother and I were sitting in her family room…she was in such despair. She said: “I feel that the Lord has left me, and I just don’t understand it…I have loved Him since childhood. I used to hear Him call me when I was a small child.”
All of a sudden Mother raised up in her recliner…her grief left instantly….she smiled a smile I have never seen before or since and said with joy: “Can you see Him?” I said who mama? She said: “It is Jesus! He is under the large light in the center of the room….His feet aren’t touching the floor….but He is right there! He is just there and He is not touching the floor…..He has just spoken to me and said: I HAVEN’T LEFT YOU….”
She said: ” He has the most beautiful, soft blue eyes….gentle eyes. ” She said: “Some pictures show him with brown eyes—-they are not brown, they are a beautful blue.”
With that mother rose out of her recliner smiling the most beautiful smile. She said: “Let’s go into the kitchen and fix something to eat….I am hungry all of a sudden….”
Mama’s spirit of grief left her, and she was okay. She was able to bear her heartache after the Master told her He had not left here.
That was 1996. It has been eleven years…Mama is now 87, and continues to be a blessing to all who know her. When she prays for someone, Heaven opens and things happen……
65 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Peter,
While your analogy seems fitting, I believe it is verging on replacement theology in somewhat a reverse manner. The “covenant” in Jesus Christ was rejected by Israel and thus was given to the Gentiles to completed God’s plan of salvation for all mankind, whoever would come to that covenant.
The verse from Romans has been taken somewhat out of context in that, in and of itself, it seems to suggest what you are stating, however in looking at the entire passage we see an entirley different theme.
Paul being of the tribe of Benjamin and an Israelite himself, is speaking of the “huiothesia” or in English, the”adoption” or being made sons by God’s choice through Isaac, not all the seed from Abraham. Paul is trying to explain simply that the choice made by God that Abraham and the seed by Isaac were “huiothesia” (made sons) when He chose them to be such seen in Gen. 17:19.
Paul is making the point that in the seed of Jacob (Israel) are the promises of God and that not all who claim to be Israel (seed of Esau) are such. Paul is lamenting over the fact that Israel has been “cut off” because of unbelief and he states he himself would give his salvation in Christ back for the sake of his people, the house of Israel, that they too might receive salvation. v.2.
Nice analogy about the bus driving by, but, when the Gentiles were at the bus stop and the bus came by, there were only a very few Israelites on the bus. The whole people were not, only the disciples and a few others who had come to faith in Christ.
The new covenant spoken of in Hebrews 8 has yet to be implemented as verse 10 states;
10: For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:
Verse 13 clearly states that covenant has not yet been established with Israel;
13: In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
Pau states it is “ready to vanish” which means the new covenant has not at that point passed to Israel and will not until the prophecy from Romans 11:25 comes to fulfillment.
Hebrews 8:10 and 10:16 is a direct quote of Jeremiah 31:33 and is yet a future event “after those days” being Jacob’s trouble.
Caleb was not a Gentile he was of the tribe of Judah as stated in Nu. 13:16;
Of the tribe of Judah, Caleb the son of Jephunneh.
The only other Caleb is seen in 1 Ch. 2:9 and is the son of Hezron. Hezron is the son of Pharez (Gen. 46:12) who is also the son of Judah.
And the sons of Judah; Er, and Onan, and Shelah, and Pharez, and Zarah: but Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan. And the sons of Pharez were Hezron and Hamul.
Ephraim and Manesseh were not adopted, they were Joseph’s sons.
Talk about just “spitting out” Scriptures.
In Christ Jesus,
Michael
66 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Typo correction.
Caleb was mentioned in Numbers 13:6, not 13:16. Sorry for the typo.
YBIC,
Michael
67 James Staten // Aug 15, 2007 at 4:52 pm
Caleb’s name means dog. I have spoken with a jewish gentleman, who has a Christian ministry. That is the question that is up for debate. Several Bible scholars through the years have stated that Caleb was gentile. J R Church and Gary Stearman who are greek and hebrew scholars say he is gentile. My jewish friend says no jewish person would name their child a dog. He quoted several Rabbi’s who concur that Caleb was gentile.
68 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 5:18 pm
James,
I don’t know why anybody would think Caleb was a Gentile when it is clear in God’s Word, both men called Caleb were in fact, blood relatives of Judah.
While there are also two men named Jephunna, who was Caleb’s father, Numbers 13:6 states quite clearly that Caleb was of the tribe of Judah.
The second Caleb is definitely the great grandson of Judah as seen in Gen. 46:12.
The notion no Israelite would name their son Caleb because it means “dog” is pretty much made moot by the fact Judah’s grandson Hezron named his son Caleb. That makes even that Caleb a 100% Israelite from the seed of Jacob.
YBIC,
Michael
69 Ryan // Aug 15, 2007 at 5:21 pm
I have never heard that theory that the Caleb of the Exodus period was a Gentile. But I do personally know two Israelis named Caleb (calev in Hebrew), so it is a name that is used.
70 Anne // Aug 15, 2007 at 5:27 pm
I am going to squeak out where my mind has been through all this deciphering……..
First off, the fullness of the Gentiles could mean the first Pentecost.
To the Jews first. Yeshua saved all Israel on the cross. “Romans 12:26 And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written (of old) pre Yeshua. This they were.
His People.
Then cometh the destruction of the temple and dispersion…..the undoing of the establishement of Jewish way of life in Israel..so that Yeshua’s influence was in the lives of many Jewish and Gentile peoples.
Temple worship was not reinstated. They were blinded only in part by not seeing Yeshua as Messiah
(not talking here of deniers, Jews who said they were Jews, but of the synogogue of Satan) “Ye are of the seed of thy Father, the devil.” Those are they to which there is no forgiveness for the rejection of the Holy Ghost, not their rejection of Yeshua.
And what about…..Daniel 12: 1 and 2
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time:
from old Israel to no Israel to God’s established time of fulfillment (he who has eyes to see and ears to hear) 1948.
even thy people shall be delivered every one that (shall be found written in the book)
And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
I’m thinking about these things.
Anne
71 James Staten // Aug 15, 2007 at 5:32 pm
Michael, I have a similar question for you. Was Dr. Luke a Jew or Gentile?
72 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 6:12 pm
James,
Luke is only mentioned 3 times in the NT. Col. 4:14, 2 Tim. 4:11 and Philemon 1:24 as Lucas.
All accounts from early Christian writings such as the Muratorian Canon (170AD) and the writings of Irenaeus of Lyons (180AD) suggest Luke was born a Gentile and most likely from either Antioch in Syria or possibly Philippi.
There really is no difinitive information other than that. Good question though, thanks for asking. I hope this answers your question.
YBIC,
Michael
73 Mariel // Aug 15, 2007 at 6:15 pm
Who is a Jew? This is a greatly unresolved question, because the criteria for being Jewish has morphed over the centuries, largely because of people marrying Jews.
Israel for a long time accepted only persons born of a Jewish mother as Jews, but this is changing, new laws arising.
My husband was born of a gentile mom and Jewish dad, but not raised Jewish. He became a Christian through the only church in his small town.
Yet many people, if they think of his “race” at all, think of him as sorta Jewish.
I was born to agnostics, but became first a Christian, then a Jew, then moved back in my allegiance to Christ. Am I still a Jew because I converted thirty years ago, and then came back to Christ?
Furthermore, people with my genetic background, which includes having the DNA for Porphyria, often have ancient Jewish blood, even if modern ancestors are unaware of it. How much Jewish blood makes one a Jew? My ratio is quite unknown, since Porphyria usually gets going by intermarriage of “porphs” down the years. It could be a lot or a smidgen.
At this point I prefer to think of a Jew as a person who voluntarily accepts the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as his own God, whether or not that person has also accepted Christ. Because in history, way back to Moses’ time, there were untold converts. Out of Egypt came not only the blood children of Jacob but the “multitude” who chose to join them.
Then there are all the unfounded accusations that Kazarite Jews are “fake Jews.” Not only does this deny the validity of conversion, but it is untrue on another level, since many blood descendants of Jacob lived in Kazaria at the time they accepted the Hebrew faith. So they were a “mixed multitude” as were those who came out of Egypt.
Another way of thinking about “who is Jew”, which is not founded in science but in love, is that those who love God’s land and pray for it to prosper are in some sense Jews. They are part of the mixed multitude who came out of Egypt and still come.
Mariel
74 James Staten // Aug 15, 2007 at 6:24 pm
Michael, the reason I asked was because the scripture states that the oracles were given to the Jews. Now did the Lord need a gentile to give us the book of Luke and the book of Acts. There is a debate about Luke being a Greek Jew.
75 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 6:48 pm
James,
The “logion” (oralces) which were given Moses by God were the spoken commandments by God, as the Greek “logion” indicates.
Those “words” Moses penned were just as God ordained him to write as seen in Ex. 34:27.
Orace simply means spoken word or uttered word.
You ask did God need Luke, a Gentile, to give us the book of Luke and possibly the book of Acts? Not to sound blunt but the question is made moot n that He DID use Luke.
The same would apply to Saul of Tarsus. Saul was a Benjamite (Rom. 11:1, Phil. 3:5) a Roman citizen (Acts 22:25) and a Pharisee (Acts 23:6). Did God need to make a Jew whowas a Roman and Pharisee to be the Apostle to the Gentiles?
Whether we believe God “needed” to or not, really should not even be an issue. God chose to do so, so I guess by deduction He “needed” to so His purpose was accomplished just as He ordained it must be.
I don’t know why so many find a need to debate subjects like whether or not Luke was a Jew, a Gentile or just a plain old heathen. Jesus saw fit to call him so, that is all I need to concern myself with. And once Luke became a believer, well the following makes moot any further need to debate he issue from Col. 3:11;
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Hopefully this answers your question James.
YBIC,
Michael
76 James Staten // Aug 15, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Food for Thought..Jephunneh, father of Caleb the spy, appears to have belonged to an Edomitish tribe called Kenezites, from Kenaz their founder. Esau’s oldest son Eliphaz became the leader of clans one of which was Kenaz. Joshua 14:6-15, Numbers 32:12, Gen. 32:12, and Gen. 36:15.That was a quick google..Jesus is coming..Keep Looking Up
77 Michael // Aug 15, 2007 at 8:35 pm
James,
Good research. Try www.biblegateway.com and www.crosswalk.com as two real good quick search tools.
I also use a number of other sources for Hebrew and Greek that I have on my hard drive. A real ggod free online Genealogical search is www.complete-bible-genealogy.com. If you select my name and then scroll down to LINKS on my website you’ll find a myriad of onerful links to search tools from Hebrew to Islam.
It appears there are two men named Jephunnah. The man named Jephunneh in 1 Ch. 7:38 is a direct descendant of Jacob through Asher.
Kenaz means “hunter” and was the grandson of Esau by Eliphaz. So it does appear one man named Caleb came from the seed of Esau and is not blood related to Isaac or Jacob.
The problem is that the statement made above by Peter that Caleb the Gentile became ruler of the house of Judah after being adopted in is false. The Caleb who is seen in 1 Ch. 2:9 is the grandson of Judah.
And the statement the gentile Caleb of the Kenezites becoming ruler over Judah is also false. Caleb endeared himself to Joshua because in Numbers 32:12 the Lord says he and Joshua “wholly” followe d the Lord in what they did as spies.
Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite, and Joshua the son of Nun: for they have wholly followed the LORD.
When Joshua was dividing the land seen in Joshua 14:6 we see Caleb reminding him the promise God made to him.
Then Caleb is given his portion of land in Joshua 15:13 but he is never spoken of as being “adopted” into the line of Judah or given rule over that house. He was allowed to live in the land amongst the tribe of Judah, nothing more.
What Caleb was given was the fields of the city of Arba and the villages that surrounded Arba as seen in Joshua 21:9-122;
9And they gave out of the tribe of the children of Judah, and out of the tribe of the children of Simeon, these cities which are here mentioned by name.
10: Which the children of Aaron, being of the families of the Kohathites, who were of the children of Levi, had: for theirs was the first lot.
11: And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak, which city is Hebron, in the hill country of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.
12: But the fields of the city, and the villages thereof, gave they to Caleb the son of Jephunneh for his possession.
The key is that the statement he was “adopted” into the house of Judah and became ruler over that house is totally inaccurate based on God’s Word.
YBIC,
Michael
78 Peter // Aug 15, 2007 at 9:53 pm
I am afraid you are wrong in many places Michael…
You obviously have not read this chapter cause you missed some very clear elements.
Numbers 13:2-3
Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel; you shall send a man from each of their fathers’ tribes, every one a LEADER among them.”So Moses sent them from the wilderness of Paran at the command of the LORD, all of them men who were HEADS of the sons of Israel.
So yes he was a leader…
Second the Caleb of ‘Numbers’ was the Son of Jephunneh and he was a Kennezite… do a little research and you will find that a Kennezite was not a Israelite, but someone from Arabia… scholars assume from Syria.
“”The verse from Romans has been taken somewhat out of context in that, in and of itself, it seems to suggest what you are stating, however in looking at the entire passage we see an entirley different theme.”"
- Paul in context was referring to his Fleshly brothers, All i said was at least he defines what an israelite is.
“”"Paul being of the tribe of Benjamin and an Israelite himself, is speaking of the “huiothesia” or in English, the”adoption” or being made sons by God’s choice through Isaac, not all the seed from Abraham. Paul is trying to explain simply that the choice made by God that Abraham and the seed by Isaac were “huiothesia” (made sons) when He chose them to be such seen in Gen. 17:19.”"”
-You are reading to much of your own interpretation into the scriptures.
Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 8 these are both the same and I agree they have not been fully implemented for the fact that is says everyone man will know the Lord.
Being the greek and hebrew reader you are im confused on how you missed this:
Paul states it is “ready to vanish” which means the new covenant has not at that point passed to Israel and will not until the prophecy from Romans 11:25 comes to fulfillment.
Wrong, the context in Hebrews 8 is not on a new and old covenant, but on the First High Priest Hood and New High Priest hood. Read the very beginning of Hebrews 8 it is all summed up, THIS IS THE CONTEXT—Hebrews 8:1 Now the main point in what has been said is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
If your translation says covenant im sorry you have a bad translation cause the greek does not…