Retrobyter

Shalom, @Luther. My friend and brother, while some of this may be true, one absolutely MUST SEE the HAND OF GOD behind all of history! No "ruling class of elites" have lasted so long as to be in that much control. It is GOD behind the scenes who is bending the passage of time to His Will! (This is turning out to be a rather lengthy post. Please, read it to the end. It all builds to the conclusion.) I would recommend one read the series of The Zion Chronicles by Bodie and Brock Thoene, starting with the first book, The Gates of Zion. It tells the researched history of the beginning of the modern Jewish state of Israel, told in the literary style from a person's first hand experiences with the forming of the nation and the obstacles that had to be overcome. What's even more interesting is how there are moments in history that CLEARLY show God's blessings upon the new state, with events that otherwise would not have been humanly possible! God HAD to intervene in human history to re-form His Realm for His Messiah to be King yet to return. The forward for the first book reads this way: "The Zion Chronicles series covers the events surrounding Israel's statehood in 1948. Each book vividly portrays the intense struggle of the Jewish people in the aftermath of the Holocaust and the forces, within and without, which engulf the Middle East in conflict and controversy even today. Will there ever be peace in Zion? The Jewish people wonder as they stream into the British Mandate of Palestine after the devastation of World War II. What has happened to God's promises to their nation? These updated classics feature a new look and added study questions suitable for individual use or group discussion." So, you reject the Tanakh? The "Old Testament?" That's what you're saying when you say, "I in no way believe that God has any blessing in war." An "unction" is an "anointing." That's what the word "χρῖσμα" means. It comes from "χρίω" meaning "to rub or smear with oil," which is also the root word for "Χριστός" or "Christos" from which we get the title "Christ." And, YES! There were priests, judges, and kings - judges over the people - who were anointed to win against the nations inhabiting the Land promised to 'AaVraahaam ("Abraham"), Yitschaq ("Isaac"), and Ya`aqoV ("Jacob"). If you'll check it out, the reason why they lived in Egypt 430 years was because "the iniquity of the Amorites was not yet full." (Check the Abrahamic Covenant in Genesis 15:12-16.) God allowed time to pass until they had committed iniquity to the point that God had had enough. That was when He sent Mosheh ("Moses") and 'Aharown ("Aaron"), the first priest, the High Priest, who was anointed with the Holy Anointing Oil (Exodus 30:22-33), as were his sons. They were the ones who led the children of Israel into the battles, which belonged to the LORD. So, they fought Amelek, Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh claimed their lands on the east side of the Jordan River. Then Mosheh passed away, and Yhowshuwa` ("Joshua") took the leadership as instructed by God. And, throughout the lifetime of Yhowshuwa`, they were taking the Land promised to them, driving them out, as instructed, while GOD did the greater part of driving them out by sending the HORNETS! (Exodus 23:28). When the children of Israel trusted God to win their battles and seek His help in the battles, they won. When they tried to do it on their own or in their own power, they failed. So, it was an incomplete "victory" at the end of Yhowshuwa`s life, but they DID have an entrenched hold on the Land. So, for another 400 years, they had the pattern of failure in trusting God, subjection to an enemy, turning back to God, and God would give them a leader (a judge) who would conquer that enemy and give them victory and peace for a while, until they once again forgot God, failing to trust God again. Then, they demanded God to give them a king "like all the other nations had." So, God said, "It's a little early," but He instructed Shmuw'eel ("Samuel") to give them a king, and Sha'uwl ("Saul") was anointed as king. God had to reject this king because He would not obey God -THREE TIMES, and God gave them another king "after God's own heart;" that is, seeking God's mind for the things he did as king. While nobody's perfect and David failed miserably with the matter of Bat-Sheva' ("Bathsheba") and 'Uwriyaah ("Uriah"), He was still a more humble king and loved God, submitting to his punishment and holding himself to blame, while still seeking to God for His forgiveness and mercy. David was given a promise and a covenant that there would be a "Seed" (one of his own line of children) who would be the ultimate Anointed One, who would reign on David's throne FOREVER "and of His kingdom there would be no end!" (2 Samuel 7, repeated in 1 Chronicles 17 and foretold to Miryam "Mary" before His fertilization). What IS the value of life? First, what is "life?" Life is a condition of human flesh that WORKS as designed by God! He made 'Aadaam ("Adam," meaning "red") from the red earth as a complete work of art but without "life," and He "jump-started" him with a breath, by "puffing into his nostrils the puff of living things," and human life took off! No human being has been created this way since. Only when the Lord Yeeshuwa` ("Jesus") Himself was raised from the dead did something similar happen. Now, when children are born, they must first also be "jump started" with a breath when first they cry, but their bodies are made from the genetic material from both parents by myosis (producing "seed") and conception. God alone gives life, and God can take it away. Furthermore, He gave that power to His Son, for Yeeshuwa` said, John 5:25-27 (KJV) 25 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man." So, yes, life is precious because ONLY God could give it to a person. One may be able to kill an individual, but the murderer has no power to determine who will be given back life and who will suffer the Second Death. That determination is given to the Son of God, who always confers with His Father for HIS Will - what HE wants. One must remember that, even those who may have "died needlessly" have not necessarily been remanded to death permanently. Yeeshuwa` also told Marta ("Martha"), John 11:25-26 (KJV) 25 Jesus said unto her, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: 26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die (Greek: οὐ μὴ ἀποθάνῃ = ou mee apothanee = "not-positively not-negatively shall-die-off"). Believest thou this?" And, we read in Revelation 19 (which John also wrote): Revelation 19:11-15 (KJV) 11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him [was] called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12 His eyes [were] as a flame of fire, and on his head [were] many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he [was] clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called "The Word of God." 14 And the armies [which were] in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God (a quotation and fulfillment from Isaiah 63:1-6). Furthermore, we read, John 5:19-24 (KJV) 19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. 20 For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. 21 For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth (brings back to life) [them]; even so the Son quickeneth (brings back to life) whom he will. 22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23 That all [men] should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." So, when we read of the Great White Throne Judgment, we know who is seated upon that Great White Throne: Revelation 20:10-15 (KJV) 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him (the Son of God) that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. So, Yeeshuwa`, the Messiah of God to be King and "King of kings" (World Emperor), and who is the Son of God, is the MASTER OF LIFE AND DEATH! He determines who will live forever, raising them to life again, and who will die the Second Death, raising them to life again to be cast into the Lake of Fire forever. THAT is the value of life! The value that Yeeshuwa` puts on a life. Now, if God is going to regain His Land, there SHALL be war, and Yeeshuwa` Himself is going to be the greatest protagonist of that war, slicing them with the "sharp sword" that comes "out of his mouth." Later, He shall raise them to life again, judge them out of the books, and consign those who rejected Him to the Lake of Fire. Sorry, but that is BACKWARD THINKING!! There is MUCH future glory for national Israel as they accept God's Messiah when He returns! Now, I, too, can understand the doctrinal deceptions that have been brought upon the churches by lovey-dovey pacifists who don't know that they are supposed to SUPPORT Israel, who STILL has a place as Yeeshuwa`s KINGDOM, where He will begin to reign from the throne of His father David! Isaiah 66:4-21 (KJV) 4 "I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear: but they did evil before mine eyes, and chose [that] in which I delighted not. 5 HEAR THE WORD OF THE LORD, YE THAT TREMBLE AT HIS WORD; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, "'Let the LORD be glorified': "but he shall appear to YOUR joy, and THEY shall be ASHAMED! 6 A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth recompence to his enemies. 7 Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child. 8 Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? [or] SHALL A NATION BE BORN AT ONCE? for AS SOON AS ZION TRAVAILED, SHE BROUGHT FORTH HER CHILDREN. 9 Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth?" saith the LORD: "shall I cause to bring forth, and shut [the womb]?" saith thy God. 10 Rejoice ye WITH Jerusalem, and be glad WITH her, all ye that love her: rejoice for joy WITH her, all ye that mourn for her: 11 That ye may suck, and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations; that ye may milk out, and be delighted with the abundance of her glory. 12 For thus saith the LORD, "Behold, I will extend peace to her (Jerusalem) like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon [her] sides, and be dandled upon [her] knees. 13 As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem. 14 And when ye see [this], your heart shall rejoice, and your bones shall flourish like an herb: and the hand of the LORD shall be known toward his servants, and [his] indignation toward his enemies. 15 For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to render his anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire. 16 For by fire and by his sword will the LORD plead with all flesh: and the slain of the LORD shall be many. 17 They that sanctify themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens behind one [tree] in the midst, eating swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together," saith the LORD. 18 "For I [know] their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory. 19 And I will set a sign among them, and I will send those that escape of them unto the nations, [to] Tarshish, Pul, and Lud, that draw the bow, [to] Tubal, and Javan, [to] the isles afar off, that have not heard my fame, neither have seen my glory; and they shall declare my glory among the Gentiles. 20 And they shall bring all your brethren [for] an offering unto the LORD out of all nations upon horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain Jerusalem," saith the LORD, "as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the house of the LORD. 21 And I will also take of them for priests [and] for Levites," saith the LORD. So, one should NOT make the mistake of thinking that 'the "Church" has REPLACED Israel.' To the contrary, those of us who were Gentiles (or even us Jews who were RAISED as though we were Gentiles), are going to be PLEASANTLY SURPRISED to learn that we have become a PART of that Kingdom! We who call ourselves Christians are NOT all who'll be at the marriage feast to dine!

Shalom, @Luther. Actually, the admonition is ... Romans 12:1-21 (KJV) 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, [let us wait] on [our] ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. 9 [Let] love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 10 [Be] kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; 12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; 13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. 14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. 15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. 16 [Be] of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. 17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. 18 IF IT BE POSSIBLE, AS MUCH AS LIETH IN YOU, live peaceably with all men. 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto [God's] wrath: for it is written, "'Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay,' saith the LORD." (Deuteronomy 32:35) 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good. We must also remember, however, the words of Shlomoh ("Solomon") who was just as much a prophet of God as was the Apostle Paul: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (KJV) 1 To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up [that which is] planted; 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. As Sergeant York learned, one cannot just remain a pacifist. There are times when it becomes necessary to wage war to protect our loved ones at home. Even IN battle, we protect our "brothers in arms" and fight for our fellow soldiers. We hear mottos like, "Leave no man behind!" Yet, even on the battlefield, it may become possible from time to time to show mercy and God's love to an enemy. There are many such accounts, especially at the ends of the Great War and WWII.

Shalom, @AdHoc. It's not the TEXT that is fiction; it's the READING AND UNDERSTANDING what was not meant by the author to be something else that is fiction! However, in this case, there's nothing in the text of the book of Yonah ("Jonah") to suggest that he actually died and came back to life. He SURVIVED his ordeal of being swallowed by a "great fish." Furthermore, the "heart of the earth" is only the proverbial "6 feet under," not 3,963 MILES under! What MAY help (although I'm not going to hold my breath) is that the word "SOUL" is also treated differently than it was in Biblical times. The word that Yeeshuwa` used and understood was "נֶפֶשׁ" or "nefesh" (pronounced "NEH-fesh"). The word means "a breathing creature," and it's root word - a verb - is "נָפַשׁ" or "naafash" (pronounced "naw-FASH"), meaning "to breathe." I like to add the word "air" because what else would human beings "breathe?" It's not some "immaterial part of a human being"; it's the part of the human being that "BREATHES" air! Now, what part of the human being might that be? See, this didn't change until the Greeks influenced the Jews and the believing Jews and Gentiles (Christians) with their philosophy and mythology around the early 200s A.D. Randy Alcorn calls this influence "Christo-Platonism" in his book on Heaven. Peter was quoting Scripture when he said, Acts 2:25-31 (KJV) 25 "For David speaketh concerning him, "'I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: 26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.' (Psalm 16:8-11) 29 "Men [and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16); 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that 'his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.'" The Greek of Acts 2:25-28 is ... ΠΡΑΞΕΙΣ 2:25-28 (Scrivener's Textus Receptus 1894) 25 Δαβὶδ γὰρ λέγει εἰς αὐτόν, Προωρώμην τὸν Κύριον ἐνώπιόν μου διὰ παντός· ὅτι ἐκ δεξιῶν μού ἐστίν, ἵνα μὴ σαλευθῶ· 26 διὰ τοῦτο εὐφράνθη ἡ καρδία μου, καὶ ἠγαλλιάσατο ἡ γλῶσσά μου· ἔτι δὲ καὶ ἡ σάρξ μου κατασκηνώσει ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι· 27 ὅτι οὐκ ἐγκαταλείψεις τὴν ψυχήν μου εἰς ᾅδου, οὐδὲ δώσεις τὸν ὅσιόν σου ἰδεῖν διαφθοράν. 28ἐγνώρισάς μοι ὁδοὺς ζωῆς· πληρώσεις με εὐφροσύνης μετὰ τοῦ προσώπου σου. Transliterated into English letters, the highlighted portion reads, hoti ouk egkataleipseis teen psucheen mou eis haidou. This translates into English as, that not thou-shalt-abandon the air-breather of-me into [the] unseen (unknown). And, this is a quotation from Psalm 16:8-11: Psalm 16:8-11 (KJV) 8 I have set the LORD always before me: because [he is] at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. 10 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore. And, the Hebrew of this passage is this: T'hilim 16:8-11 (Westminster Leningrad Codex) 8שִׁוִּ֬יתִי יְהוָ֣ה לְנֶגְדִּ֣י תָמִ֑יד כִּ֥י מִֽ֝ימִינִ֗י בַּל־אֶמֹּֽוט׃ 9לָכֵ֤ן ׀ שָׂמַ֣ח לִ֭בִּי וַיָּ֣גֶל כְּבֹודִ֑י אַף־בְּ֝שָׂרִ֗י יִשְׁכֹּ֥ן לָבֶֽטַח׃ 10כִּ֤י ׀ לֹא־תַעֲזֹ֣ב נַפְשִׁ֣י לִשְׁאֹ֑ול לֹֽא־תִתֵּ֥ן חֲ֝סִידְךָ֗ לִרְאֹ֥ות שָֽׁחַת ׃ 11תֹּֽודִיעֵנִי֮ אֹ֤רַח חַ֫יִּ֥ים שֹׂ֣בַע מָחֹות אֶת־פָּנֶ֑יךָ נְעִמֹ֖ות בִּימִינְךָ֣ נֶֽצַח׃ The highlighted portion transliterates to ... lo'-ta`azoV nafshiy lish'owl It translates into English as ... Not-thou-shalt-abandon my-air-breathing-creature to-asked-about.

Shalom, again, @Luther. Oh, and we ARE expected to accompany Him in battle! Consider Revelation 19 and this will be AFTER we are resurrected and arrive with the Messiah of God, Anointed to be King: Revelation 19:6-21 (KJV) 6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, "Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. 7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready." 8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. 9 And he saith unto me, "Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb!" And he saith unto me, "These are the true sayings of God." 10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, "See [thou do it] not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." 11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him [was] called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. 12 His eyes [were] as a flame of fire, and on his head [were] many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. 13 And he [was] clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 14 And the ARMIES [which were] in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on [his] vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. 17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, "Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; 18 That ye may eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of them that sit on them, and the flesh of all [men, both] free and bond, both small and great!" 19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against him that sat on the horse, and against his army. 20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21 And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which [sword] proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh. Haven't you ever read Isaiah 63:1-6? Isaiah 63:1-6 (KJV) 1 "Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength?" "I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save." 2 "Wherefore [art thou] red in thine apparel, and thy garments like him that treadeth in the winefat?" 3 "I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people [there was] none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment. 4 For the day of vengeance [is] in mine heart, and the year of my redeemed is come. 5 And I looked, and [there was] none to help; and I wondered that [there was] none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me. 6 And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth!" We're supposed to be accompanying Him in battle on the day of vengeance, but where will we be? Where are we in this prophecy? We'll probably be in the "mop-up crew." Call it the "Red Cross" or rather, the "Magen David Adom," but our part will probably be in aiding those who are injured from the invasion of His Land! And, one more thing: There will be MANY MORE than ONE "Judgment Day!" By my calculations, that will be more like 365,243 days! It is the JOB of an Israeli King to be the SUPREME COURT JUDGE, just as David and Shlomoh ("Solomon") were! He will be judging matters within His Kingdom THROUGHOUT the THOUSAND YEARS up to the Great White Throne Judgment. Even afterward, we read in Revelation 22: Revelation 22:1-5 (KJV) 1 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB (YEESHUWA`). 2 In the midst of the street of it (the New Jerusalem), and on either side of the river, [was there] the tree of life, which bare twelve [manner of] fruits, [and] yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree [were] for the healing of the nations. 3 And there shall be no more curse: but THE THRONE OF GOD AND OF THE LAMB shall be in it; and HIS SERVANTS shall serve him: 4 And THEY shall see his face; and his name [shall be] in THEIR foreheads. 5 And there shall be no night there; and THEY need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth THEM light: and THEY SHALL REIGN FOR EVER AND EVER.

Shalom, @Luther. Yeeshuwa` was quoting Psalm 37:11. Learn what it means to be "meek," as Mosheh ("Moses") was. He was humble BEFORE GOD! All the same, he stood up to the nonsense of Korah and his companions. Listen to what he told them. First, the background: Numbers 16:1-35 (KJV) 1 Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took [men]: 2 And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty (250) princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown: 3 And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, "[Ye take] too much upon you, seeing all the congregation [are] holy, every one of them, and the LORD [is] among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?" 4 And when Moses heard [it], he fell upon his face: 5 And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, "Even to morrow the LORD will shew who [are] his, and [who is] holy; and will cause [him] to come near unto him: even [him] whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him. 6 This do; Take you censers, Korah, and all his company; 7 And put fire therein, and put incense in them before the LORD to morrow: and it shall be [that] the man whom the LORD doth choose, he [shall be] holy: [ye take] too much upon you, ye sons of Levi." 8 And Moses said unto Korah, "Hear, I pray you, ye sons of Levi: 9 [Seemeth it but] a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them? 10 And he hath brought thee near [to him], and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also? 11 For which cause [both] thou and all thy company [are] gathered together against the LORD: and what [is] Aaron, that ye murmur against him?" 12 And Moses sent to call Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab: which said, "We will not come up: 13 [Is it] a small thing that thou hast brought us up out of a land that floweth with milk and honey, to kill us in the wilderness, except thou make thyself altogether a prince over us? 14 Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up." 15 And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, "Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them!" 16 And Moses said unto Korah, "Be thou and all thy company before the LORD, thou, and they, and Aaron, to morrow: 17 And take every man his censer, and put incense in them, and bring ye before the LORD every man his censer, two hundred and fifty (250) censers; thou also, and Aaron, each [of you] his censer." 18 And they took every man his censer, and put fire in them, and laid incense thereon, and stood in the door of the tabernacle of the congregation with Moses and Aaron. 19 And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation. 20 And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying, 21 "Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them in a moment!" 22 And they fell upon their faces, and said, "O God, the God of the spirits of all flesh, shall one man sin, and wilt thou be wroth with all the congregation?" 23 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, 24 "Speak unto the congregation, saying, 'Get you up from about the tabernacle (tent) of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.'" 25 And Moses rose up and went unto Dathan and Abiram; and the elders of Israel followed him. 26 And he spake unto the congregation, saying, "Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins!" 27 So they gat up from the tabernacle of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, on every side: and Dathan and Abiram came out, and stood in the door of their tents, and their wives, and their sons, and their little children. 28 And Moses said, "Hereby ye shall know that the LORD hath sent me to do all these works; for [I have] not [done them] of mine own mind. 29 If these men die the common death of all men, or if they be visited after the visitation of all men; [then] the LORD hath not sent me. 30 But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that [appertain] unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD!" 31 And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that [was] under them: 32 And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that [appertained] unto Korah, and all [their] goods. 33 They, and all that [appertained] to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation. 34 And all Israel that [were] round about them fled at the cry of them: for they said, "Lest the earth swallow us up [also]!" 35 And there came out a fire from the LORD, and consumed the two hundred and fifty (250) men that offered incense. This is what a "meek" person is.

Shalom, @Luther. One shouldn't have a limited view of our Master Yeeshuwa` the Anointed One of GOD. He didn't JUST teach "love, compassion and forgiveness." He also showed through His actions that JUSTICE and RIGHTOUSNESS were paramount! He OVERTURNED the tables of the merchants in the Temple (no small feat!), and He CHASED them from the premises with a whip! Read His parable in Luke 19 all the way to the end! It's like a parable within a parable, when compared to the other Gospel accounts; so, don't stop too early. Luke 19:11-27 (KJV) 11 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. 12 He said therefore, "A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. 13 And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, "'Occupy (Trade with this) till I come.' 14 "But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "'We will not have THIS [man] to reign over us!' 15 "And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, "'Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.' 17 "And he said unto him, "'Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.' 18 "And the second came, saying, "'Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.' 19 "And he said likewise to him, "'Be thou also over five cities.' 20 "And another came, saying, "'Lord, behold, [here is] thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin: 21 For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.' 22 "And he saith unto him, "'Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, [thou] wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was "an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow": 23 Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury (interest)?' 24 "And he said unto them that stood by, "'Take from him the pound, and give [it] to him that hath ten pounds.' 25 "(And they said unto him, "'Lord, he hath ten pounds [already]!') 26 "'For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. 27 But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and SLAY [them] before me!' " Does that sound like "love, compassion and forgiveness"? But, THAT is our KING when He comes! He's not going to come as some "weakling king," a push-over! He will come ready to purge His land of the foreigners and conquer all of His foes!

Shalom, @Your closest friendnt. Sorry, bro', but Yeeshuwa` the Messiah was risen from the "place of the dead" called a tomb in a cemetery! He did NOT descend to some "Hell." That is a FICTIONAL MISREADING OF SCRIPTURE! First, the word translated as "hell" in the OT is שְׁאוֹל or "sh'owl," and the word means "asked about." It's the place where children were brought, and they "asked about" their deceased loved one, giving the parents an opportunity to tell the loved one's story. Second, this idea is a fictional misreading of ... Ephesians 4:7-10 (KJV) 7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8 Wherefore he saith, "When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men." (Psalm 68:18) 9 (Now that "he ascended," what is it but that "he also descended" first into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He that "descended" is the same also that "ascended up far above all heavens," that he might fill all things.) But this contains a QUOTE from the Tanakh (the "Old Testament"). So, to understand it in its context, one must go back to the source: Psalm 68:1-35 (KJV) 1 [[To the chief Musician, A Psalm [or] Song of (for) David.]] Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. 2 As smoke is driven away, [so] drive [them] away: as wax melteth before the fire, [so] let the wicked perish at the presence of God. 3 But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. 4 Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him. 5 A father of the fatherless, and a judge of (for) the widows, [is] God in his holy habitation. 6 God setteth the solitary (orphans) in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains (slaves): but the rebellious dwell in a dry [land]. 7 O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah: 8 The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: [even] Sinai itself [was moved] at the presence of God, the God of Israel. 9 Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary (tired and thirsty). 10 Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor. 11 The Lord gave the word (Hebrew: אֹמֶר = "utterance, speech, word, saying, promise, command"): great [was] the company of those that published [it]. 12 Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. 13 Though ye have lien (lain) among the pots (stalls), [yet shall ye be as] the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold. (A dove flying away with treasure! We read that God said in Exodus 3:19-22 (KJV) - 19 "And I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, no, not by a mighty hand. 20 And I will stretch out my hand, and smite Egypt with all my wonders which I will do in the midst thereof: and after that he will let you go. 21 And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty: 22 But every woman shall borrow of her neighbour, and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and ye shall put [them] upon your sons, and upon your daughters; and ye shall spoil the Egyptians." And, that happened in Exodus 12:35-36 (KJV) - 35 And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses; and they borrowed of the Egyptians jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: 36 And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them [such things as they required]. And they spoiled the Egyptians.) 14 When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was [white] as snow in Salmon. 15 The hill of God [is as] the hill of Bashan; an high hill [as] the hill of Bashan. 16 Why leap ye, ye high hills? [this is] the hill [which] God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell [in it] for ever. 17 The chariots of God [are] twenty thousand, [even] thousands of angels: the Lord [is] among them, [as in] Sinai, in the holy [place]. 18 THOU HAST ASCENDED ON HIGH, THOU HAST LED CAPTIVITY CAPTIVE: THOU HAST RECEIVED GIFTS FOR MEN; yea, [for] the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell [among them]. 19 Blessed [be] the Lord, [who] daily loadeth us [with benefits, even] the God of our salvation. Selah. 20 [He that is] our God [is] the God of salvation (deliverance; rescue); and unto GOD the Lord [belong] the issues (the exoduses) from death. 21 But God shall wound the head of his enemies, [and] the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses. 22 The Lord said, "I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring [my people] again from the depths of the sea: 23 That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of [thine] enemies, [and] the tongue of thy dogs in the same." 24 They have seen thy goings, O God; [even] the goings (a procession or march, a caravan) of my God, my King, in the sanctuary (the holy place). 25 The singers went before, the players on instruments [followed] after; among [them were] the damsels playing with timbrels. 26 Bless ye God ('Eel) in the congregations, [even] the Lord ('Adonaay), from the fountain of Israel. 27 There [is] little Benjamin [with] their ruler, the princes of Judah [and] their council, the princes of Zebulun, [and] the princes of Naphtali. 28 Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us. 29 Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee. 30 Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, [till every one] submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people [that] delight in war. 31 Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God. 32 Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah: 33 To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, [which were] of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, [and that] a mighty voice. 34 Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency [is] over Israel, and his strength [is] in the clouds. 35 O God, [thou art] terrible out of thy holy places (Hebrew: מִמִּקְדָּשֶׁיךָ = "from-thy-holies"): the God of Israel [is] he that giveth strength and power unto [his] people. Blessed [be] God! This song begins with the RESCUE FROM EGYPT AND THE EXODUS! THEY were the "captivity led captive" through the wilderness! God first DESCENDED (or CONdescended) to the earth (which is lower than the heavens or the skies) when He rescued Israel from Egypt, and He did it again when Yeeshuwa` was created in the womb of a virgin! I'm not saying this to someone who doesn't know the Scriptures; it's just that not everyone makes the CONNECTION unless it is fresh in one's mind. This is WHY I quote so much Scripture! (It will help if one takes the time to read the post.)

Shalom, @Frits. Sorry, but "the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God" is just as 'Eleazar ("Lazarus") heard Him in his tomb and came out of the tomb after Yeeshuwa` said, "Lazarus, come forth!" And, Ephesians 5:14 is a FUTURE occurrence! And, "Christ shall give thee light" is talking about our "glorified" bodies, which Paul said was with the same "glory" (Greek: doxa) as that of the sun, moon, and stars (in 1 Corinthians 15:39-45).

Shalom, @Marston. I can understand this point of view. Now, understand the other side: First, when one understands that a person who dies no longer knows anything at all, the next thing a God-justified person will know is the resurrection. He or she will come back to life as though no time had passed at all. For him or her, it is still "today." The only thing he or she will know is that now he or she has a new, glorified body, incapable of death or decay, with no more pain and no more weakness! The scars will be gone, and he or she will have a WONDERFUL future! The thief's legs that were broken will be "instantaneously" healed! "Paradise," which is a transliteration of the Greek word "paradeisos," is in turn a transliteration of the Aramaic/Hebrew word "pardeec" (pronounced "par-DACE") meaning a "park of trees!" The "Garden Tomb" was indeed in a "park of trees," and other such burial sites are also surrounded by trees and comfort for the visitors to that cemetery. The New Jerusalem will not descend until AFTER haSatan has been locked away for a thousand years (Revelation 21 and 22 follow Revelation 20:7-15, which in turn follow Revelation 20:1-3, and it is the New Jerusalem that is THE "park of trees" or at least, contains it. We know this because the "angel of the church of Ephesus" was told, Revelation 2:7 (KJV) 7 "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of THE TREE OF LIFE, which is IN THE MIDST OF THE PARADISE OF GOD." And, we later find out that the tree of life is in the New Jerusalem: Revelation 22:2 (KJV) 2 In the midst of the street of it (the New Jerusalem), and on either side of the river, was there THE TREE OF LIFE, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. So, the species called "the tree of life" will be in the median of the street of gold within the New Jerusalem, which either "IS" or "CONTAINS" the Paradise of God. A person who believes in the continuity of life, must accept the idea that one goes to heaven after he or she dies; a person who believes in the DIScontinuity of life, knows that there is a GAP in a person's knowledge between his or her death and his or her resurrection.

Shalom, @Frits, and Happy Resurrection Memorial Day! In the Greek New Testament, when one sees the word "hadees," it means the "unseen." Why would Yeeshuwa` be talking about the Greek underworld, as though they believed that Greek mythology? No, He was talking about the FUTURE!

Shalom, @Your closest friendnt. That makes ZERO sense. If He lovesd the Greeks so much, then why didn't He pick His twelve disciples from them? He lived in "the Galilee of the Gentiles."

Shalom, @Your closest friendst. Of course, Shmuw'eel was a priest of YHWH and was responsible for anointing two kings of Israel, who each reigned over Israel for 40 years; thus, each of those kings, Sha'uwl and David, was a "maashiyach" or "messiah," translated as "christ." David even called Sha'uwl "the LORD'S anointed" on more than one occasion. The only human author we know for the book of Ecclesiastes ("leader of the Ekkleesia/the Congregation" of Israel) was the "Preacher," as he is sometimes called, Shlomoh or Solomon, the king of Israel. He was the KiNG, the One ANOINTED of YHWH, given YHWH'S wisdom freely! No excuses are necessary for the contents of that book; God gave us knowledge directly through him that we weren't given elsewhere in Scripture. He had the Ruwach haQadowsh (the Holy SPirit) upon him, and God spoke through him, just as He did through David his father! The word "soul" has been CORRUPTED through the Greek influence of philosophy and mythology since before Yeeshuwa` was born! But, the Hebrew word נֶפֶשׁ or "nefesh" means "an air-breathing creature." It's really quite simple; it stems from the verb form, נָפַשׁ or "naafash," meaning "TO BREATHE!" The land-dwelling animals each was a "nefesh," just as Adam was, as were the sea-creatures that were called "great whales" or "sea monsters." All of them breathed air; therefore, all of them were "nafshiym" (the plural of "nefesh"). We first see the English word "soul" in Genesis 2:7, but the Hebrew word was first used in Genesis 1:20, 21, 24, and 30! Adam was an "air-breathing creature," ... until he wasn't. When he died, he ceased to breathe air (imagine that!); thus, he ceased to be a "nefesh"; he ceased to be a "soul." When he is resurrected, he will begin to breathe air again. He will become a "soul" again! It was the influece of the GREEKS that led to the idea that the "soul" was somehow separate from the "body!" This is why medical scientists cannot find any evidence for a "soul" in a human being. The human body IS the "soul" the "air-breathing creature!" The word translated in the Old Testament as "hell" is the Hebrew word שְׁאוֹל or "sh'owl." The word means "asked about," and referred to the visitation of children to a grave site. They would "ask about" the loved one who passed away, and they would listen to the account of the person's life. This is what the Hebrew word means. Just for one's information, it's related to the name, שָׁאוּל or "Shaa'uwl" transliterated into the English name "Saul" (through Greek). In this case, the name means "asked for." This is the name for the first king of Israel and also for "Saul of Tarsus," the Apostle Paul.

Shabbat shalom, @Frits. Why should anyone bother correcting someone who is above being taught? It's an exercise in futility.

Shabbat shalom, @Frits. The most frustrating thing to me is when a believer doesn't take the time to learn the definitions of particular words in the Scriptures. One doesn't have to get one's defintions from dictionaries or lexicons; one can get the definitions in just how they are used within the Scriptures! I can GUARANTEE that one will have a HORRIBLE LEARNING CURVE to overcome, when the Lord returns! It may take a THOUSAND YEARS to relearn all that he or she once thought he or she knew! FOR INSTANCE, did you know that "heaven" doesn't mean "God's Abode?" That comes from THEOLOGICAL PHILOSOPHY! No, the word "heaven" is used either to translate the Hebrew word # ("shaamayim") or the Greek word # ("ouranos"), and BOTH words are talking about the "SKY" (or "SKIES"), what one sees in and through this planet's atmosphere! If one needs proof of that, simply look at Genesis 1 and Matthew 16:1-4. Look up the words and see how they are used IN CONTEXT! We add a LOT of fiction to "what we believe," and that started with the first ecumenical creed (or statement of faith) in 325 A.D. at the Council of Nicaea! And, it became really bad when they mixed in not only Greek philosophy but also Greek mythology! I'm going to leave it at that ... for now.

Shabbat shalom, @Frits. In John 5:25, Yeeshuwa` is talking about calling forth the dead to RESURRECTION, not "preaching to them." The same is true for Ephesians 5:14. He will call them out of their graves just as He did for 'Eleazar ("Lazarus").

Shalom, @Luther. You're misunderstanding these verses in Romans 11. It's not "the election (Jews and Gentiles) saved by grace is not blinded." Rather, his point was "the Jews are blinded!" It's not about who's NOT blinded; it's all about who IS blinded, and he also pointed out that this blindness was TEMPORARY! "UNTIL the fulness of the Gentiles be come in!" Then, "the veil shall be lifted from their eyes!" 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 (KJV) 12 Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 13 And not as Moses, [which] put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: 14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which [vail] is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, THE VAIL SHALL BE TAKEN AWAY. 17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. 18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord. Forget that goofy word "spiritual!" It's too misused and abused to be of any real value. Everyone has a different definition for it, and most have the word wrong. Besides, Yitschaq ("Isaac") is the LITERAL SEED of 'AVraahaam ("Abraham") which became the lineage of the Messiah. There's nothing "spiritual" in it! And, there you are VERY WRONG! Many of them can give you at least partial lineages that prove they are indeed Jews - children of Yhuwdaah ("Judah")! Indeed, to become citizens of Israel today, one may show his or her lineage, and they are accepted. And, if children of Yhuwdaah, then children of Yisraa'eel/Ya`aqoV ("Israel/Jacob"), who are children of Yitschaq, who are children of 'AVraahaam! Sorry, but that is NOT what Paul was saying in Romans 9:6-7! Re-read Romans chapters 9 through 11 with an OPEN MIND! Anyway, here's the verses you mentioned: Romans 9:6-7 (KJV) 6 Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they [are] not all Israel, which are of Israel: 7 Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, [are they] all children: but, "In Isaac shall thy seed be called." (Genesis 21:12). First, there ARE "sons of Belial" who are "worthless fellows"; they RESIST the Grace of God, like Korah and his family! I'm sure there are some of those in the state of Israel today, I won't disagree. However, NOT ALL! Some are just disillusioned with the prophecies taking SO LONG to fulfill! But, they can learn of their Messiah and be thrilled with the possibilities once again! And, they ARE coming back to the Messiah today! And, ALL of the prophecies regarding the children of Israel SHALL BE FULFILLED! Modern day believers ("Christians") are NOT all who shall enter His Kingdom! Besides Yitschaq and Yishmaa'eel ("Ishmael"), 'AVraahaam had six more sons through Keturah: Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak and Shuah, but NONE of these other 7 sons were 'AVraahaam's heirs! How about BOTH?! They are the "people of the Book!" Paul said, Romans 3:1-3 ?(KJV) 1 What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit [is there] of circumcision? 2 Much EVERY WAY: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. 3 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? They CERTAINLY know the Hebrew better than most Christians do! AND, they are Yeeshuwa`s RELATIVES! They are also the subjects of Yeeshuwa`s future Kingdom, the Kingdom He begins AFTER He returns!

Shalom, @Frits. I know! And that's been a problem ever since! Their AVERSION to using the Name of God gave rise to the confusion! That confusion was COPIED into English. So, now we have both "Lord" and "LORD," and both "God" and "GOD" in the KJV, and we have "Lord" and "Lord" used for both in many of the modern English translations! At least, the KJV kept the Name present in either "LORD" or "GOD" (such as in Ezekiel). But His Name is "יְהוָה" and that name should NOT be forgotten out of misuse or abuse! David used the Name quite freely, especially in the psalms! HE is the One who led the children of Israel out of Egypt, not Mosheh ("Moses")! HE was the One who made the Covenants with Noach ("Noah"), 'AVraahaam ("Abraham"), Yitschaq ("Isaac"), Ya`aqoV ("Jacob"), and David (pronounced Dah-VEED'). "The Word was WITH that God and WAS that God," but also "the Word was made flesh" and was named "יֵשׁוּעַ" or "Yeeshuwa`" or "Jeshua," today written "Jesus" from the Greek transliteration of "Ἰησοῦς" or "Ieesous." This name means "He shall save/deliver/rescue" in Hebrew. Matthew 1:20-21 (KJV) 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name 'JESUS': for 'he shall save' his people from their sins." It's important to realize that, as with any version, translation, or paraphrase of God's Word made by human men, the Septuagint is likewise a fallible copy of the infallible Word of God. Same problem. Again, Greek got in the way. There are passages quoted from the Tanakh (the Old Testament) in the B'riyt Chadashah (New Testament) where His Name appears, but it was given the word "kurios" instead. That is NOT a good thing! Furthermore, it CONFUSES the Persons of God the Father and the Son of God Yeeshuwa`, who is also His Anointed One. There's a REASON why the Trinity is said to consist of three Persons! It's NOT RIGHT to say that God the Father IS EQUAL TO the Son of God (or vice versa)! His name is יֵשׁוּעַ, or transliterated for pronunciation, Yeeshuwa` ("Yay-SHOO-(g)ah"), and He SHALL BE King - haMelekh - the Lord - ha'Adown - when He returns. The Christ - The Messiah OF God - is NOT God! He USED TO BE God! Now, He is a man, having become flesh, although He is still the Person who was the Word. "He was made a little lower than the angels," and He is now "the Mediator between God and man! "Yeeshuwa` was born of God through a CREATIVE ACT! It's called the "incarnation," but God was NOT "put into flesh"; He "WAS MADE flesh!"; therefore, "incarnation" is really the WRONG WORD; it doesn't describe Him accurately! 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (KJV) 5 For [there is] one God, AND one mediator between God and men, THE MAN Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. For proof that they are TWO, SEPARATE PERSONS, simply go back to the prophecy of His crucifixion in Isaiah 53: Isaiah 53:5-11 (KJV) 5 But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. [Note: TWO, SEPARATE PERSONS INVOLVED IN THE CRUCIFIXION!] 7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. 9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither [was any] deceit in his mouth. 10 Yet it pleased the LORD (YHWH God the Father) to bruise him (Yeeshuwa` the Messiah, the Son of God); HE hath put [him] to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see [his] seed, he shall prolong [his] days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul (His air-breathing creature), [and] SHALL BE SATISFIED: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. One was the BRUISED; One was the BRUISER! One was the One IN GRIEF; One was the One PUTTING THE OTHER TO GRIEF! Don't confuse the two!

Shalom, @Frits. A "savior" is a "deliverer" or a "rescuer." Someone who rescues another person from a dangerous situation, or delivers another person from bondage, or saves another person from death. The OT taught the children of Israel through the prophecies that God would SEND a rescuer to rescue His people. Just as Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, and Othniel: Led the Israelites against Cushan-rishathaim, King of Aram. Ehud: Confronted Eglon, the king of Moab. Shamgar: Fought against the Philistines, killing 600 of them with an ox goad. Deborah and Barak: Led the Israelites against King Jabin of Canaan and his general Sisera. Gideon: Fought against the Midianites, Amalekites, and "the sons of the East". Jephthah: Battled the Ammonites. Samson: Fought against the Philistines in numerous battles, demonstrating great strength. These were ALL "rescuers," "saviors!" Thank you for this explanation and your personal history. In a definition such as this, notice that the synonyms of the definition are separated by commas. That's not unusual. Like newspapers of old, the comma often represented the word "and." When you look at the points above C, one will see that the various parts of a point are all separated by commas. For example, 1.A.2. says "in the state: the sovereign, prince, chief, the Roman emperor" and could also be read as, "in the state: the sovereign AND prince AND chief AND the Roman emperor." They are INSTANCES of the definition as applied to different situations. We don't think of these all as applying to the same person. We don't see: sovereign = prince = chief = the Roman emperor. The structure of 1.C. is no different. It also could read, "this title is given to: God AND the Messiah." We shouldn't read into the definition "God = the Messiah." Since the time of David and Solomon, the King of Israel WAS the master of the rest of the people. His rules - his laws - were to be obeyed! Therefore, it is not uncommon in the OT to find that "Lord" is applied to kings, much as a King is a "lord's lord" today in England (which once again has a king instead of a queen). Thank you for the wish and the blessing! I wish you the same, and may God richly bless you and yours! Christians have been limited by not studying the history found in the Tanakh (the Old Testament). If they were to study it out, particularly in the life of David before he was made king, one will find that HE, TOO, was a "messiah," an "anointed one" of the LORD. So too was Saul; so was Solomon; so was Aaron, and MANY more were so anointed. The word "Messiah" is not limited to the ULTIMATE Messiah, whom we know as Yeeshuwa` or "Jesus" in English. Aaron, his sons and grandsons, Saul, David, Solomon, Rehoboam, ... were ALL "messiahs" for their time. Only Yeeshuwa` was (and is) the Messiah - the Anointed One - who will be such FOREVER as the ULTIMATE Messiah of God. He shall reign over the house of Jacob (Israel) forever! He's only gone away for a "short" time, until His Father says, "It's time!" When He returns, He shall come back with God's authority to be Israel's King! And, He shall step into that role and GROW that Kingdom until it envelops the whole world! (Daniel 2:35, 44-45; 1Corinthians 15:20-28; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43). Then, He turns that Kingdom over to His Father to reign over it directly forever, and Yeeshuwa` will continue to reign in the New Jerusalem forever, as the King of Israel forever (Luke 1:30-33). The word "Christ" comes from the Greek word "Χριστός" transliterated as "Christos," which is a translation of the Hebrew word "מָשִׁיחַ" transliterated as "Messiah." Both words mean "an anointed one," just in two different languages. I should also note here that capitalization is more an English thing brought into the mix. In Hebrew, there are no capital letters. In Greek, capitalization was SOMETIMES used, but there weren't any hard-and-fast rules about it. Sometimes, whole manuscripts have been found that contain NO capital letters at all, written in miniscules; sometimes, the manuscripts are written in ALL capital letters! It was more like how we may write in block letters (where the letters are all separate from each other) or cursive (where the letters are all joined in a continual flow within a word). We've come to accept a capital letter at the beginning of a word as marking it as a name or a title, and there are rules in English grammar for capitalization. As far as the verses you've chosen from the OT, Deuteronomy 6:4 and Psalm 123:1-2, these apply to the ONE whom Yeeshuwa` called "Father," and "my God." One should not read into a verse what isn't there in the originall

Shalom, @1to3. Thank you for that news! It's a GREAT start, and it's encouraging that this is not an isolated case! Many children of Israel are coming to the knowledge of their Messiah! One additional point that could have been made (IMO) is that the Messiah is coming back to REIGN! Isaiah 52:7 also says, "Thy God reigneth," whom Yeeshuwa` shall be REPRESENTING as God's Anointed, just as King David did.

Shalom, @truth7t7. Sorry, but SIMILARITY doesn't mean EQUALITY! That's one of the first things one would learn in geometry. Two triangles, for instance, may have all the same angles, but different lengths of sides within the two triangles. One looks like a larger (or smaller) version of the other. These two triangles are not "equal" but they are "similar." The measurements are all wrong! The Temple that Yeeshuwa` will build after He returns (found in Ezekiel) will be a SCALE MODEL of the New Jerusalem to come (found in Revelation). There's yet a THOUSAND YEARS between Christ's Second Coming and the Eternal City coming down from God out of the sky. Christ - or the Messiah of God - God's Anointed One to reign, first over Jerusalem and Israel, and eventually over the whole earth, must first subdue all of His enemies. (1 Cor. 15:20-28). While people (especially Christians) may own Him as their King now, He is NOT YET REIGNING! He doesn't begin His reign until He has returned! (Matthew 25:31; Luke 19:11-15). That said, I'm GLAD that you're seeing the similarities! However, one should also note the DIFFERENCES, as well.

No and NO! David is Yeeshuwa`s GREAT grandfather! And, you DO understand that David, too, will be resurrected, right?

You do know that the Messianic Covenant God made with David in 2 Samuel 7 and 1 Chronicles 17 is talking about the Messiah Yeeshuwa` (the Christ Jesus), right? It can't be talking about Solomon, for Solomon was not made king AFTER David slept with his fathers. Therefore, Solomon is NOT the "seed" mentioned in this Covenant: 2 Samuel 7:1-17 (KJV) 1 And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the LORD had given him rest round about from all his enemies; 2 That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, "See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains." 3 And Nathan said to the king, "Go, do all that [is] in thine heart; for the LORD [is] with thee." 4 And it came to pass that night, that the word of the LORD came unto Nathan, saying, 5 "Go and tell my servant David, "'Thus saith the LORD, "'"Shalt THOU build ME an house for me to dwell in? 6 Whereas I have not dwelt in [any] house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle. 7 In all [the places] wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, 'Why build ye not me an house of cedar?'"' 8 "Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, "'Thus saith the LORD of hosts, "'"I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel: 9 And I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight, and have made thee a great name, like unto the name of the great [men] that [are] in the earth. 10 Moreover I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own, and move no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any more, as beforetime, 11 And as since the time that I commanded judges [to be] over my people Israel, and have caused thee to rest from all thine enemies." "'Also the LORD telleth thee that HE will make THEE an house. 12 "'"And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 HE SHALL BUILD AN HOUSE FOR MY NAME, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever. 14 I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men: 15 But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took [it] from Saul, whom I put away before thee. 16 And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever."'" 17 According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David. One can learn alot if one is willing to learn from sources that one may think he can't learn anything from. I got this from Judaism 101 (www.jewfaq.org): Asham (ah-SHAHM) A guilt offering. A type of sacrifice used to atone for sins of stealing things from the altar, for when you are not sure whether you have committed a sin or what sin you have committed, or for breach of trust. Burnt Offering A type of sacrifice that represented complete submission to G-d's will. It was completely consumed by fire on the altar. In Hebrew, it was called an olah. Chatat (khah-TAHT) A sin offering. A type of sacrifice used to atone for and expiate unintentional sins. Guilt Offering A type of sacrifice used to atone for sins of stealing things from the altar, for when you are not sure whether you have committed a sin or what sin you have committed, or for breach of trust. Meal Offerings An offering of meal or grain. Nesekh An offering of undiluted wine. Offerings Jewish practices of sacrifices and offerings were extensive in ancient times, but have not been practiced since our Temple was destroyed, because we are not permitted to bring offerings anywhere else. Olah (oh-LAH) Derived from a root meaning ascension. A burnt offering, a type of sacrifice that represented complete submission to G-d's will. It was completely consumed by fire on the altar. Parah Adumah (Pahr-AH ah-doo-MAH) Lit. red heifer. An animal used as an offering in an unusual and mysterious ritual to purify from the defilement of contact with the dead. Peace Offering A type of sacrifice expressing thanks or gratitude. Red Heifer (Red Cow) An animal used as an offering in an unusual and mysterious ritual to purify from the defilement of contact with the dead. Sacrifice Jewish practices of sacrifices and offerings were extensive in ancient times, but have not been practiced since our Temple was destroyed, because we are not permitted to bring offerings anywhere else. Sh'lamim (shlah-MEEM) Lit. peace [offering]. A type of sacrifice expressing thanks or gratitude. Sin Offering A type of sacrifice used to atone for and expiate unintentional sins. Zebach Sh'lamim (zeh-BAKH shlah-MEEM) Lit. peace offering. A type of sacrifice expressing thanks or gratitude. This was a search; so, there are some duplicates. The point is that some of these sacrifices were purely to express thanks to God, such as the peace offering. Others would expiate unintentional sins (the sin offering). And still others were simply to provide food for the Levites, such as the meal offering. Notice that there is NO sacrifice for a transgression. Transgressions were only handled one way: The person transgressing was taken outside of the camp and STONED TO DEATH! A transgression is a WILLFUL disobedience to God's Law. An iniquity is an injustice to others. We sometimes use the word inequity, but really it's about the lack of justice, not the lack of equity. Equity is about being "fair" to others, rather than being "JUST" to others. If for no other reason than to provide food for the priests and Levites, there shall still be sacrifices (or butchering) going on within the new Temple. But, the bottom line is this: NO PROPHECY GOD HAS MADE ABOUT THE FUTURE WILL GO UNFULFILLED! Yeeshuwa` SHALL build a Temple, as predicted in the Davidic Covenant, and people SHALL come to His birthday party every year! those who love Him will come gladly and willingly; those who are the "tares among the wheat" will come by force! "Come, or no rain" or "Come, or plague!"

Shalom, @Frits. And both are referring to YHWH God, whom Yeeshuwa` ("Jesus") acknowledged as His Father.

Shalom, @Michael37. This is a pretty good speech; however, it's missing a couple of points: First, there are TWO Kings! The Father has been King all along, but will be the SECOND King for the earth in the future. The FIRST King for our earth will be the Messiah Yeeshuwa`. This is what makes the Trinity such an important concept. It keeps the roles of the Persons separate. Yeeshuwa` ("Jesus") gave us information in His parable of the wheat and tares. In His explanation of the tares, He gives us this: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (KJV) 24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: 25 But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. 26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. 27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, "'Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?' 28 "He said unto them, "'An enemy hath done this.' "The servants said unto him, "'Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?' 29 "But he said, "'Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."' " ... 36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, "Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field." 37 He answered and said unto them, "He that soweth the good seed is (=) the Son of man; 38 The field is (=) the world (Greek: κόσμος = "world-system" of rulership); the good seed are (=) the children of the kingdom; but the tares are (=) the children of the wicked [one]; 39 The enemy that sowed them is (=) the devil; the harvest is (=) the end of the world (Greek: αἰῶνός = "age"); and the reapers are (=) the angels." At this point, we can make the substitutions in the parable. Here's the restatement of the parable with the substitutions made: 24 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven is likened unto the Son of man which sowed the children of the kingdom in the world (Greek: κόσμος = "world-system" of rulership): 25 But while men slept, the devil came and sowed the children of the wicked [one] among the children of the kingdom, and went his way. 26 But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the children of the wicked [one] also. 27 So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, "'Sir, didst not thou sow the children of the kingdom in thy world (Greek: κόσμος = "world-system" of rulership)? from whence then hath it the children of the wicked [one]?' 28 "He said unto them, "'the devil hath done this.' "The servants said unto him, "'Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?' 29 "But he said, "'Nay; lest while ye gather up the children of the wicked [one], ye root up also the children of the kingdom with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of the end of the world (Greek: αἰῶνός = "age") I will say to the reapers, "Gather ye together first the children of the wicked [one], and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the children of the kingdom into my barn."' " Then, He concluded: 40 "As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world (Greek: αἰῶνός = "age") . 41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather OUT OF HIS KINGDOM all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; 42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun IN THE KINGDOM OF THEIR FATHER. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear." And, Yeeshuwa` also said that HIS Kingdom will begin when He returns. We are NOT currently in His Kingdom, although we can reckon ourselves to be His subjects right now and accept Yeeshuwa` as our LITERAL, FUTURE King. He said this twice (at least): Matthew 25:31 (KJV) 31 "When the Son of man shall come in his glory (brightness), and all the holy angels with him, THEN shall he sit upon the throne of his glory (brightness):" And, within His parable on the way to Jerusalem, He said this: Luke 19:11-15 (KJV) 11 And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear. 12 He said therefore, "A CERTAIN NOBLEMAN WENT INTO A FAR COUNTRY TO RECEIVE FOR HIMSELF A KINGDOM, AND TO RETURN. 13 And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, "'Occupy (Trade with this) till I come.' 14 "But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, "'We will not have THIS [man] to reign over us!' 15 "And it came to pass, that WHEN HE WAS RETURNED, HAVING RECEIVED THE KINGDOM, then he commanded ...." And, Paul added this in the "Resurrection Chapter": 1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (KJV) 20 But now is Christ (the Messiah) risen from the dead, [and] become the firstfruits (singular) of them that slept. 21 For since by man [came] death, by man [came] also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ (in the Messiah) shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: (0) Christ (The Messiah) the firstfruits (singular); (1) afterward they that are Christ's (those who belong to the Messiah) at his coming. 24 (2) THEN [COMETH] THE END, WHEN HE SHALL HAVE DELIVERED UP THE KINGDOM TO GOD, EVEN THE FATHER; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy [that] shall be destroyed [is] death. 27 For "he hath put all things under his feet." {But when he saith "all things are put under [him," it is] manifest that "he" is excepted, which did "put all things under him."} 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto HIM (God the Father) that put all things under him (the Son of God, the Messiah), THAT GOD MAY BE ALL IN ALL. And, we're told in Revelation 20, that from the time of His Coming (His Second Coming) to The End will be at least a THOUSAND YEARS, the time which is marked by the incarceration of haSatan. Therefore, there are TWO KINGDOMS coming: The First will be the Kingdom of God represented by the Messiah, and the Second will be the Kingdom of God DIRECTLY ruled by God the Father. Second, when Yeeshuwa` said, "I and my father are one," He was saying that in the SAME WAY that a man and a woman become one in their marriage. He wasn't saying they were "one" as in one flesh, consummating the marriage; He was saying that they are ON THE SAME PAGE! He does always those things that please His Father! He will reign on behalf of His Father, always checking in with His Father in prayer to be sure of what His Father WANTS, just as He did during His FIRST Coming!

Shalom, @Frits I don't have a problem believing Hebrews 13:8; HOWEVER, one must look at this verse VERY CAREFULLY! Yeeshuwa` the Messiah is the same "Yesterday" - a FINITE amount of time one day long! "Today" - another FINITE amount of time one day long! "and for ever" is an INFINITE length of time lasting INDEFINITELY AND ETERNALLY INTO THE FUTURE! In mathematics, we call this a HALFLINE. On a time line, it begins at a point which is included, on the graph, and a line is drawn to the right, representing time increasing. An arrowhead is placed at the end of the line to show that the line continues into infinity. "The WORD" of God also includes a line to the left, showing that the line had continued eternally in the past, as well. However, that's NOT THE SAME for the One named "Yeeshuwa`" (or "Jesus"), for "the Word BECAME FLESH!" He was not "PUT into flesh" (which is what the word "incarnation" means); He BECAME FLESH! He BEGAN on the day of His fertilization! (Some people say "at conception," but "conception" is now considered a process that includes SEVERAL stages and is no longer representing just fertilization.) I TOLD you that I would be addressing the 10 verses you initally gave for believing in the deity of the Messiah, but you've jumped the gun a little. I won't speculate on why, but I AM going to get to these verses.