This prophecy, most likely written by Jane Leade in 1697 has given many, many people, throughout my years on the internet, and even before, inspiration and hope for their own prophetic ministries when other people were not listening any longer to God’s voice. I said, and continue to say, thank you God our Father and Jesus Christ for Prophets like Jane Leade. Thank you God for speaking through them, through us, for your name’s sake; and thank you so much for speaking to, and through, all!!!
Someone gave me a copy of this prophecy, on paper, prior to 1996; and I first published a copy of it on our Ministry Website, called “God’s Word”, in 1996. The word definitions are in { } (at the bottom of the Prophecy), the verse references are in < >, and the printed Biblical verses were added by me in 2010.
In this present age, this Prophecy is critical to our understanding God’s eternal intent for His Spiritual realm and its manifestation into the physical. This is where, and how, God is moving within His people now. I have added two copies of this Prophecy: the first copy is without any remarks, verses etc; the second copy has the added definitions, verses and comments etc. I, Chris Williams, find, and have always found that God’s prophetic Word through me is in agreement with what He has written in the Bible. I find this to be the same with Jane Leade’s Prophecy. I hope and pray you find the same truth as you read this.
Prophecy by Jane Leade
(Without definitions, verse references, comments etc)
“There shall be a total and full (*)redemption by Christ. This is a hidden mystery not to be understood without the revelation of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is at hand to reveal the same to all holy seekers and loving inquirers.
The completion of such a (*)redemption is withheld and abstracted by the apocalyptical (or revelation) seals. Wherefore as the Spirit of God shall open up seal after seal, so shall this (*)redemption come to be revealed both particularly and universally. In the gradual opening of the mystery of (*)redemption in Christ doth consist the unsearchable wisdom of God; which may continually reveal new and fresh things to the worthy seeker. In order to which the ark of the Testimony in Heaven shall be opened before the end of this age and the living testimony herein contained shall be unsealed. The presence of the Divine Ark will constitute the life of this Virgin Church, and wherever this Body is, there must the ark of necessity be.
The unsealing of the Living Testimony within the Ark of God must begin the promulgation of the everlasting gospel of the kingdom. The proclamation of the Testimony will be as the sounding of a trumpet of alarm to the nations of professed Christendom. Authority shall be given by Christ to the putting an end to all controversies concerning the true church that is born of the New Jerusalem mother [Holy Spirit] (see John 17:1-3; Matt 28:18). This decision will be the actual sealing of the [one] body of Christ with the Name (or Authority) of God, giving them a commission to act by the same.
This New Name (or Authority) will distinguish them from the seven thousand names of Babylon. The election and preparation of this Virgin Church is to be after a secret and hidden manner. As David in his ministry was chosen and anointed by the prophet of the Lord, yet was not admitted to the outward profession of the Kingdom for a considerable time afterward, of the stem of David a Virgin Church, which hath known nothing of a man or human constitution, is to be born and it will require some time for it to get out of the minority and arrive at full and mature age.
The birth of this Virgin Church was typified by St. John’s vision where the great wonder appeared in heaven, bringing forth her first born that was caught up to the throne of God (or identified with the Authority of God). For as a virgin woman brought forth Christ after the flesh, so shall a Virgin Church bring forth the first born after the Spirit who shall be endowed with the seven spirits of God. This church so brought forth and sealed with the mark of Divine Authority will have no bonds or impositions, but the holy unction among these new born spirits {“offspring”} will be all and all (see Rev 12; Eph 1:23; 1 Cor 15:28).
There is not at this day visible upon the earth such a church, all profession being found light when weighed in the balances. Therefore they are rejected by the Supreme Judge. Which rejection will be for this cause, that out of them may come a new and glorious church. Then shall the glory of God and the Lamb so rest upon this typical tabernacle so that it shall be called the Tabernacle of Wisdom, and though it is not now known in visibility, yet it shall be seen as coming out of the wilderness within a short time (see Rev 12); then it will go on to multiply and propagate [reproduce] itself universally, not only to the number of the first born (144,000), but also to the remnant of the Seed, against whom the Dragon will make war continually.
Wherefore the spirit of David shall revive in this blossoming root. These will have might given them to overcome the Dragon and his angels, even as David overcame Goliath and the Philistine army. This will be the standing up of the great prince Michael and will be as the appearance of Moses against Pharaoh, in order that the chosen Seed may be brought out of hard servitude.
Egypt doth figure this servile creation under which Abraham’s Seed groans, BUT A PROPHET, AND THE MOST PROPHETIC GENERATION {they will prophecy: speak, write, sing under God’s Divine inspiration in their own language}, WILL THE MOST HIGH RAISE UP WHO SHALL DELIVER CHRIST’S PEOPLE BY THE FORCE OF SPIRITUAL ARMS. For which there must be certain head powers to bear the first office, who are to be persons in favor with God, whose dread and fear shall fall on all nations, visible and invisible, because of the mighty acting power of the Holy Spirit which shall rest upon them. For Christ will appear in some chosen vessels to bring into the Promised Land, the New Creation state.
Thus, Moses, Joshua [Moses’ successor], and Aaron [High Priest] may be considered types of some upon whom the same Spirit will come, yet in greater proportion. Whereby they shall make way for the ransomed of the Lord to return to Mt. Zion, but none shall stand under God but those who have become “tried” stones after the pattern and similitude of Christ. This will be fiery trial through which a very few will be able to pass or bear up in it. Whereby the waiters for this visible breaking forth are strictly charged to hold fast, and WAIT TOGETHER IN THE UNITY OF PURE LOVE [as they did in the upper room the first time Jesus returned] This trial will be of absolute necessity to all for the clearing away of all remaining infirmities of the natural mind, and the burning of all hay, wood, and stubble. For nothing must remain in the fire, for as a refiner shall He purify the sons of the kingdom.
There will be some [not all] who will be FULLY REDEEMED being clothed upon with a priestly garment after the Melchizedek order. This will qualify them for governing Authority. Therefore it is required on their part to suffer the Spirit of burning, and the fanning of the Fiery Breath searching every part within them until they arrive at a Fixed Body from whence the wonders are to flow out.
Upon this Body will be the fixation of the Urim and Thummim that are the portion of the Melchizedek priesthood whose descent is not counted in the genealogy of that creation which is under the fall but in another genealogy which is a New Creation. Hence these priests will have a deep inward search and divine sight into secret things of Deity, will be able to prophesy in a clear ground; not darkly and enigmatically, for they will know what is couched in the first originality of all beings, in the eternal anti-type of nature, and will be able to bring them forth according to the divine counsel and ordination.
The Lord sweareth in truth and righteousness that from Abraham’s line, according to the Spirit, there shall arise a Holy Priesthood. Abraham and Sarah were a type of that which would be produced and manifested in the last age. The mighty Spirit of Cyrus is appointed to lay the foundation of this [Spiritual Heavenly] third temple and support it in the building.
There are characteristics and marks whereby the pure Virgin Church shall be known and distinguished from all others and whereby the unction and true sound of the Holy Spirit shall be discerned from all others that are low, false and counterfeit. There must be a manifestation of the Spirit whereby to edify and raise up this Church, whereby bringing heaven down upon the earth and representing here the New Jerusalem state in order to which spirits are thus begotten and born of God, ascend to New Jerusalem above where their Head in majesty doth reign.
None but those who have so ascended and received of His glory can condescend and communicate the same, being thereby His representatives on the earth and subordinate priests under Him now. He that has ascended and glorified has made Himself, as it were, our Debtor. Consequently, He will not be wanting in qualifying and furnishing certain high and principal instruments who shall be MOST HUMBLE and as little regarded as David was, who He will dignify with honor and priestly sovereignty for drawing to them the scattered flocks and gathering them into one fold [One Body: Christ’s] out of all nations.
Therefore, there should be a holy emulation and ambition stirred up among the bands of believers that they may be of the firstfruits unto Him that is risen from the dead and so be made principal agents for Him and with Him, that they may be, if possible, of the number of the First-born, of the New Jerusalem mother. All true waiters of His Kingdom in Spirit, under whatsoever profession they may be, ought to be numbered among the virgin spirits to whom this message appertains. Be watchful and quicken your pace.”
Vision; Interpretation, Comments and Verses:
Prophecy by Jane Leade
(With definitions, verses, comments etc)
“There shall be a total and full (1)redemption {loosing away (thru Christ’s sacrifice)} by Christ. This is a (2)hidden mystery not to be understood without the revelation of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is at hand to reveal the same to all holy seekers and loving inquirers.
The completion of such a (1)redemption {those paid for, and thus loosed} is withheld and abstracted {removed or separated from; apart} by the apocalyptic (or revelation) seals <Rev 6:3-8:6>. Wherefore as the Spirit of God shall open up seal after seal, so shall this (1)redemption {loosing (away/separation of Christ’s Body)} come to be revealed both particularly {individually} and universally {as One Body/Church}. (2)In the gradual opening of the mystery of redemption {loosing} in Christ doth consist the unsearchable wisdom of God {who is, and is within, the “Tabernacle of Wisdom”: see below}; which may continually reveal new and fresh things to the worthy seeker. In order to which the (3)ark of the Testimony/{Covenant} in Heaven shall be opened before the end of this age and the LIVING <Jn 6:63> testimony <Rev 1:2, 1:9, 12:17> herein contained shall be unsealed. The presence of the Divine Ark {Testimony/Covenant; Christ} will (4)constitute {set up formally} the life of this Virgin Church <1 Cor 7:34; 2 Cor 11:2>, and wherever this Body {<Eph 5:23; Col 1:18; Col 1:24>; Christ’s one Body of Spiritual members} is, there must the ark {Testimony/Covenant/Church/Body} of necessity be.
The unsealing of the Living Testimony within the Ark of God <Lk 17:21; Rev 11:19> must begin the promulgation {to put into effect by public announcement} of the everlasting gospel of the kingdom. The proclamation of the Testimony will be as the sounding of a (5)trumpet <Rev 8:1-2> of alarm to the nations of professed Christendom. Authority {actual sealing; Eph 1:13-14; Jn 6:26-27; Rev 7:2-6>} shall be given by Christ to the putting an end to all controversies concerning the true church that is born of the New Jerusalem mother <Gal 4:21-31; Rev 12:3-17> . This decision will be the actual sealing of the {one} Body of Christ with the (6)name (or Authority) of God, giving them a commission to act by the same.
This New Name (or Authority) <Isa 62:1-12; Rev 2:17, Rev 3:12> will distinguish them from the seven thousand names of Babylon <Rom11:4; ? 2 Kings 24:8-16 ?>. (2)The election and preparation of this Virgin Church <1 Cor 7:34; 2 Cor 11:2> is to be after a secret and hidden manner. As David in his ministry was chosen and anointed by the prophet of the Lord, yet was not admitted to the outward profession of the Kingdom for a considerable time afterward, of the (7)stem of David a Virgin Church <1 Cor 7:34; 2 Cor 11:2; Rev 3:12; Rev 21:2-3; Rev 21:9-10; Rev 19:7-9>, which hath known nothing of a man or human constitution {not made by man}, is to be born and it will require some time for it to get out of the minority and arrive at full and mature age.
(8)The birth of this Virgin Church <1 Cor 7:34; 2 Cor 11:2; also Lk 14:25-33; Rev 7:1-17, > was typified {characterized} by St. John’s vision {in the book of Revelations} where the great wonder appeared in heaven, bringing forth her (33)first born that was caught up to the throne of God (or identified with the Authority of God) <MUST READ: Rev 12:1-17>. For as a virgin woman brought forth Christ after the flesh, (8)so shall a Virgin CHURCH <1 Cor 7:34; 2 Cor 11:2> bring forth THE FIRST BORN AFTER THE SPIRIT {Christ/His Spiritual Church/Body/Wife} WHO SHALL BE (9)ENDOWED WITH THE SEVEN SPIRITS OF GOD. This church so brought forth and sealed with the mark of Divine Authority {Christ’s Name} <Rev 14:1, Rev 19:13-16, 22:4> will have no bonds {will see redemption} or impositions, but the holy (10)unction among these (11)new born spirits will be ALL and ALL <1Cor 12:6; 1 Cor 15:26-28; Eph 1:22-23>.
There is not at this day {1600’s} visible upon the earth such a church, all profession being found light when weighed in the balances. Therefore they are rejected by the Supreme Judge {Lord; (Rev 6:10)}. Which rejection will be for this cause, that out of them {those light when weighed} may come a new and glorious church. Then shall the glory of God and the Lamb <Rev 21:22-23> so rest <Heb 4:8-13> upon this typical tabernacle so that it shall be called the Tabernacle of Wisdom <MUST READ: Rev 21:1-7; Acts 15:12-17>, and though it is not now known in visibility {in the 1600s}, yet it shall be seen as coming out of the (12)wilderness within a short time; then it will go on to multiply and (13)propagate {to breed (offspring)} itself universally, not only to the number of the (33)first born (144,000) {firstfruits} but also to the remna<offspring; Rev 12:1-17> of the Seed <Christ Jesus; Gal 3:16>, against whom the Dragon will make war continually <Rev 12:1-17>.
Wherefore the spirit of David shall revive in this (15)blossoming root <Rom 11:16-33>. These will have might given them to overcome the Dragon and his angels {messengers} <Rev 12:11>, even as David overcame Goliath and the Philistine army <1 Sam 17:1 thru 18:4>. This will be the standing up of the great prince Michael <Dan 10:12-21, 12:1-4; Rev 12:7> and will be as the appearance of Moses against Pharaoh <Ex 3:18, 4:22-23, 5:1, 7:16, 8:1> , in order that the chosen {spiritual} Seed {Gal 3:16} may be brought out of hard servitude.
Egypt doth figure this servile creation under which Abraham’s Seed groans <Gal 3:13-29; Rom 8:18-25>, BUT A PROPHET, AND THE MOST PROPHETICAL GENERATION {God will (16)PROPHESY thru them}, will the MOST HIGH RAISE UP who shall deliver His people by the force of SPIRITUAL arms <(ie) Zech 4:6>. For which there must be certain head powers to bear the first office, who are to be persons in favor with God, whose dread and fear shall fall on all nations, visible and invisible, because of the mighty acting power of the Holy Spirit which shall rest upon them <as in Rev 11:1-13>. For Christ will appear in some chosen vessels to bring into the {spiritual} Promised Land the New Creation state <2 Cor 5:16-21; Gal 6:15>.
Thus, Moses <Heb 3:1 thru 4:13>, (17)Joshua, and Aaron <(First High Priest); Heb 7:11-28; 5:4-14> may be considered types of some upon whom the same Spirit will come, yet in greater proportion. Whereby they shall make way for the ransomed of the Lord <Mk 10:45; 1 Tim 2:1-6> to return to (18)Mt. Zion but none shall stand under God but those who have become “tried” stones <1 Pet 2:4-6> after the pattern and (19)similitude of Christ. This will be (20)fiery trial through which a very few will be able to pass or bear up in it. (21)Whereby the waiters for this visible breaking forth are strictly charged to hold fast, and wait together in the unity of Pure Love. This trial will be of absolute necessity to all for the clearing away of all remaining infirmities of the natural mind {as opposed to Christ’s mind in us; 1 Cor 2:16; Phil 2:5}, and the burning of all hay, wood, and stubble. For nothing must remain in the fire, for as a refiner <Mal 3:1-6> shall He purify <Titus 2:14; Jas 1:27, 4:8-10> the sons of the kingdom <Matt 3:37-43, 8:10-12 (Job 1:6, 2:1), Matt 13:38-43; Rom 8:14-19; Gal 3:26-29>.
There will be some [not all] who will be (1)FULLY REDEEMED being clothed upon with a priestly garment {holy garments in order to minister to our Father within the Holy Place/Holy of Holies} after the (22)Melchizedek order. This will qualify them for governing Authority. Therefore it is required on their part to suffer the (20)Spirit of burning <Matt 3:11; Lk 3:16-17>, and the fanning of the (20)Fiery Breath {Spirit/Ghost <Isa 4:2-6>} searching every part within them until they arrive at a Fixed Body {“firmly in position: stationary; unmovable”; not subject to change or variation; constant; prearranged to outcome} from whence the wonders are to flow out <(ie) Acts 4:29-31>.
Upon this [Christ’s One Body] Body will be the fixation {to fix, fasten on} of the (23)Urim and Thummim that are the portion of the Melchizedek priesthood <1 Pet 2:5-9; Ezra 3:10-13> whose descent is not counted in the genealogy of that creation which is under the fall; but in another genealogy which is a New Creation <2 Cor 5:16-21; Gal 6:15>. Hence these priests {under our High Priest Jesus Christ} will have a deep inward search and divine sight into secret things of Deity <1 Cor 14:24>, will be able to (17)PROPHESY in a clear ground <1 Pet 2:9-10; 1 Pet 1:10-12; Matt 11:13; Acts 19:6>; not darkly and enigmatically <Num 8:12-12>, for they will know what is couched {placed together} in the first originality of all beings <Jn 16:13; Matt 10:16-20>, in the Eternal anti-type {fallen nature} of nature, and will be able to bring them {the priests} forth according to the divine counsel {direction/advice as to a decision/course of action} and (24)ordination.
The Lord sweareth in truth and righteousness that from Abraham’s line {genealogy, including Christ}, ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT, there shall arise a HOLY PRIESTHOOD. (25)Abraham and (26)Sarah were a type {also similitude, pattern} of that which would be produced and manifested in the last age <Gal 3:16-18>. The (27)mighty Spirit of Cyrus is appointed to lay the foundation of this THIRD temple and support it in the building <Rev 7:14-17, Rev 16:1-21, Rev 21:22-27>.
There are characteristics and marks whereby the pure (8)Virgin Church shall be known and distinguished from all others and whereby the (10)unction {to anoint} and (28)true sound/{voice} of the Holy Spirit shall be discerned from all others that are low, false and counterfeit. There MUST BE A MANIFESTATION OF THE SPIRIT whereby {thus} to (29)edify and raise up this Church <Matt 3:9, 16:18; Eph 3:20-21, 4:16; 1 Cor 12:12-31; Rom 8:14-23>, whereby bringing heaven down upon the earth <Eph 1:7-10; Revelations> and REPRESENTING here the New Jerusalem state {New Creation state of Life} in order to which spirits are thus begotten and born of God <Isa 66:1-13; Gal 4:19-31; Heb 12:7-9>, ascend to New Jerusalem above where their Head {Christ Jesus} in majesty doth reign.
(*)None but those who have so ascended and received of His glory can (30)condescend and communicate the same, being thereby His REPRESENTATIVES [(*)conduits] on the earth and subordinate {in a lower rank} priests under Him {our High Priest} now <Ex 29:44, Ex 30:30, Ex 31:10-11…; 1 Pet 2:4-10; Rev 1:5-6, Rev 5:8-11, Rev 20:4-6>. He {Jesus} that has ascended and glorified has made Himself, as it were, our Debtor <Acts 20:28>. Consequently, He will not be wanting in qualifying and furnishing certain high and principal instruments who shall be MOST HUMBLE and as little regarded as David was, who He will dignify with honor and priestly sovereignty {royal rank, authority or power} for drawing to them the scattered flocks and gathering them into one fold [One Body: Christ’s] out of all nations.
[(*) NOTE: On 3/21/2019 God said these are CONDUITS similar to the Apostles with Christ; and the 70 elders were for Moses (Num 11:16-17).]
Therefore, there should be a holy (31)emulation and ambition stirred up among the bands of believers that they may be of the (33)firstfruits {first-born, 144,000} unto Him that is risen from the dead and so be made principal agents for Him and with Him, that they may be, if possible, of the number of the (33)First-born {144,000}, of the New Jerusalem mother <{Spirit/Spiritual Mother}; Gal 4:21-31>. All true waiters of His Kingdom in Spirit, under whatsoever (32)profession they may be, ought to be numbered among the virgin spirits {belonging to the Virgin Church, see above} to whom this message appertains. Be watchful and quicken your pace.”
*******
DEFINITIONS AND COMMENTS/VERSES:
(1) “redemption/redeemed”: “Deliverance by payment of a price. In the New Testament, redemption refers to salvation from sin, death, and the wrath of God by Christ’s sacrifice. In the Old Testament, the word redemption refers to redemption by a (1a & 1b)KINSMAN (Lev 25:24,51-52; Ruth 4:6; Jer 32:7-8), rescue or deliverance (Num 3:49), and ransom (Ps 111:9; 130:7). In the New Testament it refers to loosing (Luke 2:38; Heb 9:12) and loosing away (Luke 21:28; Rom 3:24; Eph 1:14)…” [from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary]
Could it be that Jesus was speaking of “redemption” when He said the following to Peter?
[Matt 16:17-19] Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock {revealed knowledge} I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of HEAVEN, and whatever you bind on EARTH will be bound in HEAVEN, and whatever you LOOSE on earth will be LOOSED in heaven.”
(1b) “KINSMAN”: “This was revealed to me by God, as I studied His language.
Below, you will find some New Testament verses that contain the Greek word “genos”. This word has been translated (KJV Bible) in the various verses below as, “BORN, COUNTRY(-MAN), KIND (-RED), NATION, OFFSPRING, generation and stock”. Strong’s Concordance of the Bible defines the word “genos” (literally) as, “KIN“.
This word, without question, refers to a “BORN NATION of LIKE PEOPLE”, to “KINDRED”, to OFFSPRING, to COUNTRYMEN etc. In every case, where this word is used in the Bible, it designates “kindred, relatives, offspring “PEOPLE OF THE SAME KIND”. This is absolute proof, that when we receive the Holy Spirit and allow God to speak through us, in either tongues or in prophesying, we are given a NEW LANGUAGE TO SPEAK. This language, whether in your native tongue/language {one easily understood by your mind}, or in languages/tongues other than your native language, called “the language of men and angels” in the Bible, is always as God’s Holy Spirit speaks through your mouth in words, song etc.
Again, this new language is not limited to speaking in multiple foreign languages {tongues}. The new language is God, Himself, His Word/Spirit/Life speaking through us! Romans 8:15, says, “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out,”Abba, Father.” NKJV Galatians 4:6 teaches this message in a much stronger way, saying: “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, “Abba, Father!” NKJV
Below, I have CAPITALIZED the English translation for the Greek word “genos”:
(1 Cor 12:10) To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers “KINDS of tongues”; to another the interpretation of tongues: (KJV)
Loosely transcribed, this would read “to another person a different language, the language of their KIN’ (BORN, KIND, NATION, KINDRED, COUNTRYMEN), the language of God’s OFFSPRING”.
On the day of Pentecost, one hundred and twenty disciples, all waiting for the promise of the Father, received the Holy Spirit, and spoke in this new language which is given to God’s offspring only. They were reborn as God’s kin, kindred, nation, countrymen and OFFSPRING/children (Acts 2:1-3).
(1 Cor 12:28) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, “DIVERSITIES of tongues”. (KJV)
Loosely transcribed, this would read “God hath set some in the church, first apostles…”DIVERSITIES/different language, the language of their KIN {kindred, nation, countrymen and OFFSPRING/children }”
In 1 Corinthians 12:10, the Greek word “genos” is translated in English as KINDS; and in 1 Cor 12:28 as DIVERSITIES. In both cases, it means that FOR THE CHURCH’S SAKE, some have received, and will speak tongues “within Christ’s Church {we are Christ’s one church}”.
These verses do not say that all individual believers should not seek to receive the wonderful gift of speaking in tongues {multiple foreign languages; the language of men and angels <1 Cor 13:1>, or prophesying {hearing God in your own language}. In fact, 1 Cor 14:31-33 teaches us that we can all prophesy, “For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.” NKJV
Please remember, that all who waited in one accord as Jesus commanded, spoke this language as they received our Father’s Promise on Pentecost; and Paul said “I wish that you all spoke in tongues…” (1 Cor 14:5); and “I thank God, I speak in tongues more than you all” (1 Cor 14:18).
Below, I have copied the balance of scriptures using the word “genos”, or kindred, nation, countrymen and OFFSPRING/children:
(Rev 22:16) I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the OFFSPRING {Born, Kind, Nation, Kindred, Countrymen} of David, and the bright and morning star. (KJV)
(Acts 17:28-29) “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his OFFSPRING {Born, Kind, Kin, Nation, Kindred, Countrymen}. Forasmuch then as we are the OFFSPRING {Born, Kind, Kin, Nation, Kindred, Countrymen} of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device” (KJV).
(1 Pet 2:9) “You are a chosen GENERATION (BORN KIND, KIN, NATION, KINDRED, COUNTRYMEN AND OFFSPRING), a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should {so that we can} shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light”
—
Even demons belong to a spiritual family. These belong to satan the liar and deceiver: “And he {Jesus} said unto them {disciples}, This KIND (NATION, KIN, KINDRED, COUNTRYMEN, AND OFFSPRING) {of demons} can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29; KJV).
Because God is both Spirit and the Word of Life, we are literally given life as he breathes into us, and speaks through us. It is because of our rebirth, and God’s voice speaking through us, that we become the OFFSPRING {Born Kind, Nation, Kindred, Countrymen} of God Almighty; and we are called a CHILD/SON of God.
Again, it is in one accord, one place {in the Spirit who is holy}, and one time that God’s people are unified and gathered together through God’s one Spirit/Life/Word/Language spoken through His voice within each believer.
(2) “There shall be a total and (*)full redemption {loosing away (thru Christ’s sacrifice)} by Christ. This is a hidden mystery” (+) “In the gradual opening of the mystery of redemption {loosing} in Christ doth consist the unsearchable wisdom of God; which may continually reveal new and fresh things to the worthy seeker” (+) “The election and preparation of this Virgin Church is to be after a secret and hidden manner”:
Mystery is found in many New Testament scriptures, including Rev 1:20: “The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the (2a)seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.” [also see Mk 4:11; Rom 16:25; 1 Cor 2:7; 1Cor 15:51; Eph 1:9; Eph 3:3-9; Eph 5:32; Eph 6:19; Col 1:26-27; Col 2:2; Col 4:3; 2 Thess 2:7; 1 Tim 3:16; Rev 1:20; Rev 10:7; Rev 17:5-7]
“The Greek NT word translated as “Mystery”, is defined: “NT:3466 musterion…; from … (to shut the mouth); a secret or “mystery” (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites): KJV – mystery. (New Exhaustive Strong’s Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary…)
Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, under “Mystery”, says the following: “The hidden, eternal plan of God that is being revealed to God’s people in accordance with His plan…
In the New Testament, mystery refers to a secret that is revealed by God to His servants through His Spirit. As such, it is an “open secret.” Mystery occurs three times in the Gospels. Jesus told His disciples, “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God” (Matt 13:11; Mark 4:11; Luke 8:10). Jesus explained the mystery of God’s kingdom to His disciples. But to others He declared, “All things come in parables” (Mark 4:11).
Most of the occurrences of the word mystery are in the Pauline {Paul’s} Epistles. Mystery refers to the revelation of God’s plan of salvation as that plan focuses in Christ. The gospel itself is a “mystery which was kept secret since the world began” (Rom 16:25). This mystery was revealed by God through the prophetic Scriptures to Paul and the church (1 Cor 2:7; Eph 6:19; Col 4:3).
(2a) “seven golden lampstands”:
In the Old Testament Temple
[Ex 25:31-34] “You shall also make a lampstand of pure gold; the lampstand shall be of hammered work. Its shaft, its branches, its bowls , its ornamental knobs, and flowers shall be of one piece. 32 And six branches shall come out of its sides: three branches of the lampstand out of one side, and three branches of the lampstand out of the other side. 33 Three bowls shall be made like almond blossoms on one branch, with an ornamental knob and a flower, and three bowls made like almond blossoms on the other branch, with an ornamental knob and a flower — and so for the six branches that come out of the lampstand. 34 On the lampstand itself four bowls shall be made like almond blossoms, each with its ornamental knob and flower.
New Testament Heavenly Temple
[Revelation 1:12-13] Then I {John} turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.
[Revelation 1:20] The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.
[Revelation 2:1] “To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, ‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst {middle} of the seven golden lampstands: NKJV
(2b) “Mystery also refers to the future resurrection of Christians”: Suggested Reading: “March 1988; January 1 “Pray For The Resurrection Of My Blessed Ones”. The first line reads, “Pray for the resurrection of My blessed ones, My very own, saith the Lord, for they are lost…” Why does Jesus say, “they are lost”? Read this first “Love Letter” to Chris from Jesus Christ and find out why.
MUST READ!! “REDEMPTION” As of November 16, 2018, Jesus taught us the following about our FULL REDEMPTION!: EXTREMELY IMPORTANT Read: “Christ’s Second Coming and Full Redemption Are Upon Us NOW“]
(3) “ark of the Testimony/{covenant} in Heaven”: “(Ark of Covenant; Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dict) A sacred portable chest which-along with its two related items, the MERCY SEAT and CHERUBIM-was the most important sacred object of the Israelites during the wilderness period. It was also known as the ark of the Lord (Josh 6:11), the ark of God (1 Sam 3:3), and the ark of the Testimony (Ex 25:22).
The ark of the covenant was the only article of furniture in the innermost room, or Holy of Holies, of Moses’ tabernacle and of Solomon’s Temple. From between the two cherubim that were on the ark of the Testimony, God spoke to Moses. Once a year the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, but only with sacrificial blood that he sprinkled on the mercy seat for the atonement of sin…
The ark had a gold cover known as the “mercy seat” (Ex 25:17-22) because the Israelites believed the ark was God’s throne…
Contents. Within the ark were the two stone tablets containing the Ten Commandments (Ex 25:16,21), considered to be the basis of the covenant between God and His people Israel. Thus the ark was often called the ark of the Testimony. The golden pot of MANNA, which God miraculously preserved as a testimony to future generations (Ex 16:32-34), was also deposited in the ark. The third item in the ark was AARON’S ROD that budded to prove that Aaron was God’s chosen (Num 17:1-11)…
The ark was carried by the sons of Levi {priests} during the WILDERNESS WANDERINGS (Deut 31:9). Carried into the Jordan River by the priests, the ark caused the waters to part so Israel could cross on dry ground (Josh 3:6-4:18). During the conquest of the land of Canaan, the ark was carried at the fall of Jericho (Josh 6:4-11); later it was deposited at Shiloh, which had become the home of the tabernacle (Josh 18:1)…”
(4) “constitute”: “to be elements or parts of; makeup: compose. To set up; enact… To establish formally… To appoint to an office, dignity, function or task… To put together from parts or elements; to form; to compose {(ie) individuals, numerous denominations… [Latin: To cause to, set, fix… to set up]” (American Heritage Dictionary)
(5) “trumpet of alarm to the nations of professed Christendom”: Nelson’s Study Bible in their Study Notes on Revelations 8:1-2 says: “…The sounding of a trumpet had more than one significance in the Old Testament. It was used to gather the Lord’s people (see Num 10:7,8), to assemble the Lord’s army (see Num 10:9), to announce a new King (see 1 Kings 1:34-39), and to proclaim the Year of Jubilee (see Lev 25:9). In this context, the sounding of trumpets indicates a declaration of war.”
Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, under Musical Instruments, teaches the following: “Trumpet: The trumpet is mentioned several times in the Bible. This instrument was used by the priests during services of sacrifice, especially to signal the DAY OF ATONEMENT (Lev 25:9) {when Israel sought forgiveness of their sins}. The trumpet was also used to rally troops on the battlefield (Josh 6:4).
Made of metal or bones… One distinctive type of trumpet or horn used by the Hebrew people was the ram’s horn, also known by its Hebrew name, the shophar (Hos 5:8). The shophar was the greatest of the Jewish ritual instruments. Eventually the horn of a mountain goat was used for this instrument, rather than the horn of a ram. The shophar, or trumpet, was basically a signaling instrument, used to assemble the army (Judg 3:27; 1 Sam 13:3), to sound an attack (Job 39:24-25), and to sound an alarm (Jer 6:1; Amos 3:6).
The ram’s {adult “lamb’s”} horn signaled war and peace, the new moon, the beginning of the Sabbath, approaching danger, and the death of a dignitary… The sound of the shophar could be heard from a great distance (Ex 19:16,19). ..
(6) “name”: Nelson’s Study Bible states the following, with regards to the word “name”: “… A person’s name represented that person’s authority and influence {character and nature}. The power in the name of Jesus comes from what the Holy Spirit/Ghost will do because of that name.”
(7) “stem”: Read: Isa 11:1-5 (may include 7 Spirits?). The Hebrew word defined as “stem” in Isa 11:1 is defined by Strong Concordance as, “meaning to cut down (trees); the trunk or stump of a tree (as felled or as planted): KJV – stem, stock.”
(9) “ENDOWED WITH THE SEVEN SPIRITS OF GOD”: Nelson’s Study Bible, in Wordfocus under “filled with the Holy Spirit” teaches the following: “… the Greek word pletho is used for describing the filling of anything from a sponge to a boat… Luke uses this common term to describe how the Holy Spirit influences a person. He uses the expression filled with the Holy Spirit eight times in his writings. In every case, the filling of the Holy Spirit enables the person so endowed to speak or preach for God. Thus, the filling of the Spirit is directly related to the prophetic ministry, the revelation or explanation of God’s Word.”
“SEVEN SPIRITS” Verses:
[NOTE: On February 13, 2010, during a prayer for healing with Jerlene Palumbo, God said the Seven Spirits were given to earth. We have only begun to study what this meant; for in fact, we had no idea the Seven Spirits are/were to be sent to earth. See Rev 5:6 below.
[Revelation 1:4-6] John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him. NKJV
[Revelation 3:1] “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write, ‘These things says He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. NKJV
[Revelation 4:5] And from the throne proceeded lightnings, thunderings, and voices. Seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. NKJV
[Revelation 5:6] And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having (9a)seven horns and (9b)seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth. NKJV
(9a) “seven horns”: “A word with several different meanings in the Bible: … 4. Because the horn was used by animals as a weapon, it came to symbolize power and might…God lifts up the horn of the righteous but cuts off the horn of the wicked (Ps 75:10). Probably as an extension of this meaning of the word, horns in the visions of Daniel and John {Revelations} symbolized kingdoms and individual kings. David spoke of God as the horn, or strength, of his salvation (2 Sam 22:3; Ps 18:2). (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
New Unger’s Bible Dictionary, under “horns” teaches: “5. In the KJV of Hab 3:4, “he had horns coming out of his hand,” the context implies rays of light (so NASB and NIV; cf. Deut 33:2).
Figurative. Two principal applications of this metaphor will be found-strength and honor. Horns being the chief source of attack and defense with the animals to which God has given them, they are employed in Scripture as emblems of the power of God (Ps 18:2), of Christ (Luke 1:69; Rev 5:6), of Ephraim (Deut 33:17), of the wicked (Ps 22:21; 75:10), and of the righteous, of kingdoms (Dan 7:7-8,24; 8:3,5-6,20), and of anti-Christian powers (Rev 13:1; 17:3,7).
The budding or sprouting of horns is figurative of the commencement or revival of a nation or power (Ps 132:17; Ezek 29:21); raising up, of arrogance (Ps 75:4-5) and also of glory (v. 10); exalting, of increase of power and glory (1 Sam 2:1,10; Ps 89:17,24; 92:10; 112:9); pushing with, of conquests (Deut 33:17; 1 Kings 22:11; Mic 4:13); bringing down, of degradation (Job 16:15, I have “thrust,” i.e., laid low, “my horn in the dust,” as a wounded animal); cutting off, of destruction of power (Ps 75:10; Jer 48:25; Lam 2:3, see marg.). (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary.)
(9b) “seven eyes”:
[2 Chron 16:8-9] Were the Ethiopians and the Lubim not a huge army with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet, because you relied on the LORD, He delivered them into your hand. For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.
[2 Chronicles 16:9] For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.”
[Amos 9:8] “Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD are on the sinful kingdom, And I will destroy it from the face of the earth; Yet I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob,” Says the LORD.
[Zechariah 4:10] For who has despised the day of small things? For these seven rejoice to see The plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. They are the eyes of the LORD, Which scan to and fro throughout the whole earth.”
[Amos 9:8-15] “Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD are on the sinful kingdom(s), And I will destroy it from the face of the earth; Yet I will not utterly destroy the house of Jacob {I will leave a remnant},”Says the LORD. “For surely I will command, And will sift the house of Israel among all nations, As grain is sifted in a sieve; Yet not the smallest grain shall fall to the ground. 10 All the sinners of My people shall die by the sword, Who say, ‘The calamity shall not overtake nor confront us.’ 11. (cf. Acts 15:16,17) On that day I will raise up The tabernacle of David, which has fallen down, And repair its damages; I will raise up its ruins, And rebuild it as in the days of old; 12 That they may possess the remnant of Edom, And all the Gentiles who are called by My name,”Says the LORD who does this thing. Behold, the days are coming,” says the LORD,”When the plowman shall overtake the reaper, And the treader of grapes him who sows seed; The mountains shall drip with sweet wine, And all the hills shall flow with it. 14 I will bring back the captives of My people Israel; They shall build the waste cities and inhabit them; They shall plant vineyards and drink wine from them; They shall also make gardens and eat fruit from them. 15 I will plant them in their land, And no longer shall they be pulled up From the land I have given them,”Says the LORD your God. NKJV
(11a) give you a heart of flesh
(10) “unction”: “The act pf anointing as a part of a religious, ceremonial or healing ritual; an ointment or oil; salve; something that serves to soothe or restore… [to anoint]
(11) “new born spirits will be (11a)ALL and ALL”: (all verses are NKJV)
God’s “all in all” lives within (11b)your heart!
[Heb 12:9-11] Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. NKJV
(11a) “ALL and ALL”:
[1 Cor 12:6-8] And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all…
[Eph 1:22-23] And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him {Jesus Christ} who fills all in all.
[1 Cor 15:28] Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all.
(11b) “New Heart”
[Ezekiel 36:26] I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and (11a)give you a heart of flesh.
[Ezekiel 11:19] Then I will give them ONE HEART, and I will put a new spirit within them, and take the stony heart out of their flesh, and (11a)give them a heart of flesh…
[Ezekiel 18:31] Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O house of Israel?
[2 Corinthians 3:6] …who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
[Heb 10:23] Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, BY A NEW AND LIVING WAY which He consecrated for us, THROUGH THE VEIL , THAT IS, HIS FLESH…
Taken from “My Praise and I Are One” March 16, 2001: Jesus said, “Deliver a message to Mine, saith the Lord. Praise is now written in their hearts, as My Word/commandments were once written on stone. As I fought satan in My own wilderness, so must they now receive the written Word in their hearts, and allow it to flow through and over their tongues, outward towards Me, stopping all between Me (in your/their heart) and Me who is in all things, in all, Amen Amen Amen…”
Copied from August 2007: “… : Jesus said that I/we were leaving the dessert/wilderness. He said we had been in it as He had been for 40 days. It was the fire Baptism in preparation for His ministry. Remember He was led out into the wilderness {loneliness} by the Holy Spirit to be tested by satan. He said now we will begin our 3 year ministry.
(13) “propagate”: to cause… to multiply or breed. To breed (offspring). To transmit (characteristics) from one generation to another. To make known… To cause (a wave, for example) to move through a medium; transmit)… To breed or multiply. [Greek: …(from) slip, shoot, OFFSPRING…]” {Suggested Reading: Re-read #1 above; and read Rev 12:17 and 22:16}
(14) “144,000”: God is building on the foundation and in the newness {state of new creation} within His one Spiritual Church/Congregation/Wife/Body/Temple, on earth, in this 1697 Prophecy <Rev 19:7, Eph 2:20-22, 5:23 and Eph 6:4>. Please read Ezra 3:10-13, for a comparison between the physical temple and the one being built now within the Spirit/spirit: Please notice the priests, musical instruments, praise, shouting and Joy mentioned in Ezra 3.
Also pay particular attention to the verses, “(12) But many of the priests and Levites and heads of the fathers’ houses, old men who had seen the first temple, wept with a loud voice when the foundation of this temple was laid before their eyes. Yet many shouted aloud for joy, 13 so that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people, for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the sound was heard afar off.”
(15) “blossoming root”: Read Zech 3:1 thru 4:14. In their note on Zech 3:8, The Nelson Study Bible states: “The coming Messiah is depicted as God’s Servant (Isa 53:11). He is also referred to as the BRANCH. Isaiah used this word and a similar one to describe the Messiah who will grow out of the root of Jesse <Isa 53:1-10> as a tender sprout shoots up from the ground (see Isa 6:12-13, 4:2-6, 11:1-12, 53:2)…”
Jesus said on November 30, 2007: “‘Let Me: See the rod, the core of your inner being, that once held/was entwined with the snake, now blossoming as Aaron’s rod did. You, all Mine, both in heaven and earth, are blossoming now with the fullness of Christ within. This is My Kingdom manifested Amen Amen Amen. This is the King Christ Jesus unfolding His many layers from within your deepest parts.”
(16) “prophesy/prophecy in a clear ground”: “OT:5012 naba’ … to prophesy, i.e. speak (or sing) {or write} by inspiration (in prediction or (16a)simple discourse)…” (From New Exhaustive Strong’s Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary…)
(16a) “simple discourse”: American Heritage Dictionary defines “discourse” as “Verbal expression in speech or writing. Verbal exchange; conversation… The process or power of reasoning… To engage in conversation or discussion; converse… To give forth (musical sounds); perform…”
[Acts 19:6-7] And when Paul had laid hands on them {Gentiles}, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Now the men were about twelve in all. NKJV
(17) “Joshua”: “… (Heb. yehoshua`, “Jehovah is salvation”), changed by Moses (Num 13:16) from Hoshea, “salvation” (13:8). The assistant and successor of Moses. He was the son of Nun, the son of Elishama, head of the tribe of Ephraim (Ex 33:11; Num 1:10).
In Battle. In the Bible Joshua is first mentioned as the victorious commander of the Israelites in their battle against the Amalekites at Rephidim (Ex 17:8-16), 1440 BC
On Mount Sinai. When Moses ascended Sinai to receive the two tables for the first time (Ex 24:13), Joshua, who is called his servant, accompanied him part of the way and was the first to meet him on his return (32:17).
In Charge of Tabernacle. After the defection of Israel and their worship of the golden calf, Moses moved the Tabernacle (17a)outside the camp and, returning to the congregation, left it in charge of Joshua (33:11).
(17a) “outside the camp”:
[Heb 13:11-16] For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp . 12 Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp , bearing His reproach. 14 For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. 15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. NKJV
[Note the “lamb” {Jesus Christ} is our final “temple” <Rev 21:22>]
An Unwise Request. When it was told Moses that Eldad and Medad prophesied in the camp, Joshua asked Moses to forbid them, to which Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, that the Lord would put His Spirit upon them!” (Num 11:27-29).
A Spy. Soon after, Joshua was appointed as one of the twelve chiefs sent to explore the land of Canaan (Josh 13:8,16-17). He and Caleb (which see) were the only ones to give an encouraging report of their journey, and they exhorted the people to go up and possess the land (14:6-9).
Appointed Ruler. When the forty years of wandering had almost passed, Joshua, because of his faithfulness, was one of the few survivors (Num 26:65). Moses, by direction of God (27:18-23), invested him solemnly and publicly with authority, in connection with Eleazar, over the people (Deut 3:28).
With Moses in the Tabernacle. It was revealed to Moses that he was soon to die and that he should appear with Joshua in the Tabernacle. While in the presence of God, Moses gave his faithful minister a commission from God: “Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the sons of Israel into the land which I swore to them, and I will be with you” (Deut 31:14,23).
Assumes Charge of Israel. Under the commission of God, again renewed (Josh 1:1-9), Joshua, “filled with the spirit of wisdom” (Deut 34:9) assumed the command of the people, c. 1400 BC From Shittim he sent spies into Jericho, where they were given lodging and were hidden by Rahab (which see). They returned to Joshua with an account of the fear of the people because of the Israelites (Josh 2).
{Today God’s People Are Entering Our Spiritual Promised Land}:
Entrance into Canaan. The next morning after their return, Joshua broke camp at Shittim and moved down to the edge of Jordan, which at this season, the harvest (April), overflowed its banks (Josh 3:15). On the third day the officers instructed the people in the order of the march, and Joshua ordered them to sanctify themselves for the next day. In the morning the priests advanced in front of the people, bearing the Ark, and when their feet touched the water the river was divided <Rev 1:6, 5:10>. They took their position in the midst of the riverbed and remained there until the people had all passed over. Meanwhile, twelve chosen men, one from each tribe, took twelve stones from the spot where the priests stood, leaving in their place twelve other stones taken from the dry land. When all this was done Joshua commanded the priests to come up out of the Jordan, and as soon as they reached dry ground the waters of the Jordan returned and overflowed its banks as before (4:1-18).
It need not be assumed that there was only a narrow dry path on which the multitude of Israelites might pass over. The waters of the Jordan were blocked by a mud slide at Adam and Zarethan, some sixteen miles north of Jericho (Josh 3:16). Thus the bed of the Jordan would have been dry for some twenty miles between Adam and the Dead Sea, and the time needed for the Israelites to cross would have been minimal. A narrow pathway would have required so much time for passage that the whole upper valley of the Jordan would have been submerged.
In Canaan. The host encamped that night at Gilgal, in the plains of Jericho, and there Joshua set up the twelve stones taken from the Jordan as a perpetual memorial of the dividing of its water (Josh 4:19-24). (17a)At the command of God, Joshua caused the people to be circumcised, a rite that seems to have been neglected in the case of those born after the Exodus (Ex 5:5). Four days after the crossing of Jordan the Passover was celebrated; the Israelites ate the next day of bread made from the grain of the land, and the manna ceased (5:10-12).
Capture of Jericho. As Joshua stood by Jericho, he saw a warrior with a drawn sword in his hand, who, in reply to Joshua’s challenge, announced himself as the “captain of the host of the Lord” and gave the divine plan for the capture of the city (vv. 13-14). The men of war and the priests carrying the trumpets and the Ark were to circle the city once each day for six days, and seven times on the seventh day, when the walls of the city would fall. Joshua followed the directions he was given, watched the fall of the city, put the inhabitants to death, and destroyed the property found within it. The Israelites spared only Rahab and her household and the silver and gold and vessels of brass and iron, which they placed in the sacred treasury (chap. 6)… {Defeated and captures Ai (Josh 7-8:35; Hitites (Josh 9); Amorites (Josh 10:1-4), an many more Kings (Ch. Josh 10-12); and received many miracles from God (Josh 10:1-14)
Dividing the Inheritance. Joshua, in conjunction with Eleazar and the heads of the tribes, now proceeded to apportion the Promised Land, including the part yet unconquered, asking for his portion Timnath-serah, a city of the hill country of Ephraim (chaps. 13-19). After the inheritance of five of the tribes had been determined Joshua moved to Shiloh, where he set up the Tabernacle and assembled the people (Josh 18:1). Seven tribes had not received their inheritance, and Joshua reproved them for not taking possession of the land. Three men were appointed from each tribe to survey the rest of the land and to divide it into seven portions, which, with their cities, they described in a book. When the survey was finished, Joshua cast lots for the seven portions before the Tabernacle in Shiloh (18:2-10). Six cities of refuge were appointed by the people themselves, three on the W of Jordan and three on the E (chap. 20). The Levites, having claimed the right given to them by Moses, received forty-eight cities and their surrounding villages, which were given up by the several tribes in proportion to the cities they severally possessed (chap. 21; cf. Num 35:1-8). The warriors of the trans-Jordanic tribes were then dismissed in peace to their homes (Josh 22).
Old Age and Death. After an interval of rest Joshua called all Israel to an assembly and delivered to them two solemn addresses concerning the marvelous fulfillment of God’s promises to their fathers. He warned them of the conditions upon which their property depended and caused them to renew their covenant with God at Shechem. He died at the age of 110 years and was buried in his own city, Timnath-serah (24:1-31), about 1365 BC.
Character. It is difficult to form an estimate of Joshua’s character, because the man is overshadowed by the greatness of the events in which he was placed. And yet this is not a dishonor to him, but a glory; a lesser man would have been seen and heard more. His life, though recorded with fullness of detail, shows no stain. By the faithful serving of his youth he was taught to command as a man; as a citizen he was patriotic in the highest degree; as a warrior, fearless and blameless; as a judge, calm and impartial. He was quite equal to every emergency under which he was to act-valiant without temerity, active without precipitation. No care, no advantage, no duty was neglected by him. He ever looked up for and obeyed divine direction with the simplicity of a child and wielded the great power given him with calmness, unostentation, and without swerving, to the accomplishment of a high, unselfish purpose. He earned by manly vigor a quiet, honored old age and retained his faith and loyalty, exclaiming, in almost his dying breath, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary)
(18) “Mt. Sion/Zion”:
(18a) New Unger’s Bible Dictionary, under Sion, Mount: “… elevated, lofty. One of the various names of Mt. Hermon… The Gk. (Sion) of the Heb. name Zion, the famous mount of the Temple (1 Macc. 4:37, 60; 5:54; 6:48, 62; 7:33; 10:11; 14:27).” See Zion (below).
ZION: The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary, under Zion: “…Theological Use. Zion has a threefold significance in the Bible apart from its original historical significance. David’s City. In the OT Zion refers to Jerusalem, the city that David conquered and made a capital of the united kingdom of Israel (1 Chron 11:5; Ps 2:6; Isa 2:3).
The Millennial City. In a prophetic sense, Zion has reference to Jerusalem as the future capital city of the nation Israel in the Kingdom age (Isa 1:27; 2:3; 4; Joel 3:16; Zech 1:16-17; 8:3-8; Rom 11:26). Amillennial theologians spiritualize… the term to mean the Christian church of this age.
The Heavenly City. The NT also refers to Zion as the New Jerusalem (Heb 12:22-24), the eternal city into which the church will be received (cf. Rev 21-22).”
(18b) Nelson’s Illustrated Bible, under Zion:
“[ZIE un] (fortification) – the city of David and the city of God. The meaning of the word Zion underwent a distinct progression in its usage throughout the Bible.
The first mention of Zion in the Bible is in 2 Sam 5:7: “David took the stronghold of Zion (that is, the City of David).” Zion, therefore, was the name of the ancient JEBUSITE fortress situated on the southeast hill of Jerusalem at the junction of the Kidron Valley and the Tyropoeon Valley. The name came to stand not only for the fortress but also for the hill on which the fortress stood. After David captured “the stronghold of Zion” by defeating the Jebusites, he called Zion “the City of David” (1 Kings 8:1; 1 Chron 11:5; 2 Chron 5:2).
When Solomon built the Temple on MOUNT MORIAH (a hill distinct and separate from Mount Zion), and moved the ark of the covenant there, the word Zion expanded in meaning to include also the Temple and the Temple area (Ps 2:6; 48:2,11-12; 132:13). It was only a short step until Zion was used as a name for the city of Jerusalem, the land of Judah, and the people of Israel as a whole (Isa 40:9; Jer 31:12). The prophet Zechariah spoke of the sons of Zion (Zech 9:13). By this time the word Zion had come to mean the entire nation of Israel.
The most important use of the word Zion is in a religious or theological sense. ZION IS USED FIGURATIVELY OF ISRAEL AS THE PEOPLE OF GOD (Isa 60:14). THE SPIRITUAL MEANING OF ZION IS CONTINUED IN THE NEW TESTAMENT, WHERE IT IS GIVEN THE CHRISTIAN MEANING OF GOD’S SPIRITUAL KINGDOM, THE CHURCH OF GOD, THE HEAVENLY JERUSALEM (Heb 12:22; Rev 14:1; Sion, KJV).”
(19) “similitude”:
SIMILITUDE. This KJV word is replaced in the NASB and NIV by various terms, among them form, likeness, and image. The thought is sometimes that of resemblance, as in Dan 10:16…” (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary)
FORM, LIKENESS. Terms used in several ways in the Bible.
1. An “appearance, shape, likeness” (Heb. temuna). Jehovah, upon the sedition of Aaron and Miriam, made this distinction between a prophet, as usually known, and Moses: “If there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord, shall make Myself known to him in a vision. . . . Not so, with My servant Moses, he is faithful in all My household; with him I speak mouth to mouth, even openly, and not in dark sayings, and he beholds the form [ “similitude,” KJV] of the Lord” (Num 12:6-8… Deut 4:12,15-16). The form of Jehovah was not the essential {absolutely required} nature of God, His unveiled glory-for this no mortal man can see (Ex 33:18-23)- but a form that manifested the invisible God in a clearly discernible mode, differing from the vision of God in the form of a man (Ezek 1:26; Dan 7:9,13), or of the angel of Jehovah. “God talked with Moses without figure, in the clear distinctness of a spiritual communication…” (K. D., Com. on Num 12:6-8)…” (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary)
(20) “(20a)fiery (20b)trial”; “(20c)fiery breath” and “(20d)Spirit of Burning”: {Used only in one scripture; but implied in many}
(20a & 20b) FIERY TRIAL:
[1 Peter 5:12 thru 5:4 ] Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the FIERY TRIAL which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
{1 Peter 5:1-4} Shepherd the Flock
The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. NKJV
(20a) “fiery/Fire”: The combustion of flammable materials. In the Bible, fire often appears as a symbol of God’s presence and power.
The Israelites and other ancient cultures placed great value on fire. They used it to provide light, cook food, heat their houses, and forge their tools and weapons. The Israelites, particularly, thought of fire as a symbol of God’s mystical presence as well as His power and judgment…
In the Old Testament, fire and flame were closely associated with Israel’s worship and religious life. On God’s instructions, a fire was kept burning continuously on the altars where burnt offerings were sacrificed (Lev 6:13). The consumption of offerings by flame assured them that God had accepted the people’s sacrifices (Judg 6:21; 1 Kings 18:38).
God also used fire to guide His people. God spoke to Moses in the burning bush experience and called him to lead the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage (Ex 3:2-12). In their wilderness wanderings, the Israelites relied each night on a PILLAR OF FIRE from heaven to guide them in their travels (Ex 13:21).
Numerous references to fire in the Bible emphasize God’s judgment on wickedness and unbelief. God is represented as a “consuming fire” (Ex 24:17; Deut 4:24; Heb 12:29). The prophet Amos warned Israel, “Seek the Lord and live, lest He break out like a fire in the house of Joseph and devour it” (Amos 5:6). In the New Testament, eternal damnation is pictured as an everlasting fire (1 Cor 3:13; Rev 21:8). Fire from heaven is described as an instrument of God’s wrath to crush the satanic rebellion (Rev 20:9,10).
(20a1)As a source of heat and light, fire is often pictured in the Bible as God’s agent to purify and illuminate. The coming Messenger of the Lord is portrayed as a “refiner’s fire” (Mal 3:2). The tongues “as of fire” which came with the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost underscored the purging and illuminating quality of God’s truth (Acts 2:3). (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
(20a1) “As a source of heat and light, fire is often pictured in the Bible as God’s agent to purify and illuminate. The coming Messenger of the Lord is portrayed as a “refiner’s fire” … The tongues “as of fire” which came with the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost underscored the purging and illuminating quality of God’s truth …”:
BAPTISM OF FIRE
“A concept used by John the Baptist to describe the work of Christ: “He [Christ] will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Matt 3:11; Luke 3:16). Some scholars believe that two different baptisms are mentioned here: “the baptism of the Holy Spirit” (the baptism that brings mercy, forgiveness, and life) and “the baptism of fire” (the baptism that brings judgment, condemnation, and death). When this interpretation is followed, the baptism of the Holy Spirit belongs to the present age of grace and the baptism of fire belongs to a future age of judgment.
Other scholars believe that only one baptism is meant: Christ baptizes “with the Holy Spirit and fire.” They point to the experience of the Day of Pentecost when “there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:3-4). These scholars see this as a reference to the work of the Holy Spirit in purifying God’s people.” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
(20b) “trial”: “A temptation or an adversity, the enduring of which proves the merit of an individual’s faith. For the Christian, to encounter adversity is to undergo a trial in which his faith is proved either true or false before God, the highest judge. Since many positive things come about through such trials, Christians are urged to rejoice at their occurrence (James 1:2; 1 Peter 4:13). Christ Himself set the example in how trials should be endured when He defeated Satan’s temptations by appealing to the word and will of God (Luke 4:1-13).” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary,,,)
(20c) “Fiery Breath”:
[Rev 9:17-19] And thus I saw the horses in the vision: those who sat on them had breastplates of fiery red, hyacinth blue, and sulfur yellow; and the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions; and out of their mouths came fire , smoke, and brimstone. 18 By these three plagues a third of mankind was killed — by the fire and the smoke and the brimstone which came out of their mouths. 19 For their power is in their mouth and in their tails; for their tails are like serpents, having heads; and with them they do harm. NKJV
[2 Sam 22:8-139] “Then the earth shook and trembled; The foundations of heaven quaked and were shaken, Because He was angry. 9 Smoke went up from His nostrils, and devouring fire from His mouth; coals were kindled by it… 13 From the brightness before Him Coals of fire were kindled. 14 The LORD thundered from heaven, and the Most High uttered His voice.
[Ps 18:6-14] In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry came before Him, even to His ears. 7 Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of the hills also quaked and were shaken, because He was angry. 8 Smoke went up from His nostrils, and devouring fire from His mouth; coals were kindled by it. 9 He bowed the heavens also, and came down with darkness under His feet. 10 And He rode upon a cherub, and flew; He flew upon the wings {also army} of the wind {also Spirit}. 11 He made darkness His secret place; His canopy around Him was dark waters And thick clouds of the skies. 12 From the brightness before Him, His thick clouds passed with hailstones and coals of fire. 13 The LORD thundered from heaven, and the Most High uttered His voice, hailstones and coals of fire. 14 He sent out His arrows and scattered the foe, lightnings in abundance, and He vanquished them. NKJV
[Jer 5:14] Therefore thus says the LORD God of hosts: “Because you speak this word, Behold, I will make My words in your mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devour them. NKJV
[Rev 11:4-6] These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. 5 And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies. And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. 6 These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire. NKJV
(20d) “Spirit of Burning”:
[Isa 4:3-6] And it shall come to pass that he who is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy — everyone who is recorded among the living in Jerusalem. 4 When the Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and purged the blood of Jerusalem from her midst, by the spirit of judgment and by the spirit of (20d1)burning, 5 then the LORD will create above every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and above her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a flaming fire by night. For over all the glory there will be a covering. 6 And there will be a tabernacle for shade in the daytime from the heat, for a place of refuge, and for a shelter from storm and rain. NKJV
(20d1) “burning”: “To consume with fire. The words are used often in a literal way, as the burning bush (Ex 3:2) and the fiery furnace (Dan 3:20-25). They are also used figuratively, of anger (Ex 32:10-11), jealousy (Ps 79:5), and strong emotion (Luke 24:32). (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
(21) “Whereby the waiters for this visible breaking forth are strictly charged to hold fast, and wait together in the unity of Pure Love”:
(21a) READ: (ie) as in Acts 1:4-5
(21b) [Rom 8:18-39] For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our {members within Christ’s one Body); Strong’s Concordance} body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” 37 Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. NKJV
(22) “Melchizedek order”: (“… “king of righteousness”). The king of Salem (i.e., Jerusalem) and “a priest of God Most High,” who went out to congratulate Abraham on his victory over Chedorlaomer and his allies. He met him in the “valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley).” Melchizedek brought bread and wine {communion} for the exhausted warriors and bestowed his blessing upon Abraham. In return the patriarch gave to the royal priest a tenth of all the booty taken from the enemy (Gen 14:17-20), about 1970 BC. Giving the tenth was a practical acknowledgment of the divine priesthood of Melchizedek, for the tenth was, according to the general custom, the offering presented to Deity.
Melchizedek is mentioned in Ps 110:4, where it is foretold that the Messiah would be “a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek,” and in Heb 5:7, where these two passages of the OT are quoted and the typical relation of Melchizedek to our Lord is stated at great length. “According to the order of Melchizedek” (Ps 110:4) is explained by Gesenius and Rosenmuller to mean “manner,” i.e., likeness in official dignity-A KING AND PRIEST. The relation between Melchizedek and Christ as type and antitype is made in the epistle to the Hebrews to consist in the following particular: each was a priest (1) who is not of the Levitical tribe; (2) who is superior to Abraham; (3) whose beginning and end are unknown; (4) who is not only a priest, but also a king of righteousness and peace.
“Without father,” etc. (Heb 7:3), refers to priestly genealogies. Melchizedek is not found on the register of the only line of legitimate priests; his father’s name is not recorded, nor his mother’s; no evidence points out his line of descent from Aaron. It is not affirmed that he had no father or that he was not born at any time or died on any day; but these facts were nowhere found on the register of the Levitical priesthood. Melchizedek offers an expressive type of Christ, the King-Priest, especially of the Messiah’s work in resurrection, inasmuch as the ancient character offers bread and wine, memorials of sacrifice {Christ’s Communion; Eucharist}.
The writer to the Hebrews beautifully describes the everlasting continuance and kingly authority of Christ’s high priesthood by the phrase “according to the order of Melchizedek” (6:20; cf. 7:23-24). The priesthood, as handed down through the line of Aaron, was often set aside by death. The Melchizedek aspect of Christ’s priesthood portrays Christ in the perpetuity of His priestly office. “He always lives to make intercession” (7:25). Although the Aaronic priesthood could typify Christ’s priestly work, it was limited in portraying the full scope of His priestly ministry. The Melchizedek type supplements the Aaronic type. As “king of righteousness” and “king of . . . peace” (Heb 7:2; cf. Isa 11:4-9), Christ will in the coming Kingdom age assume both offices in His Person. The prophet Zechariah graphically sets this forth in the symbolic crowning of Joshua (Zech 6:9-15). This significant event foreshadowed the millennial period when Messiah the Branch will “sit and rule on His throne. Thus, He will be a priest on His throne, and the counsel of peace will be between the two offices” (v. 13); that is, both kingship and priesthood will be united in one Person. (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary)
(23) “Urim and Thummim”: “… LIGHTS AND PERFECTIONS – GEMS OR STONES CARRIED BY THE HIGH PRIEST and used by him to determine God’s will in certain matters. Many scholars believe these gems were cast, much as dice are thrown, to aid the high priest in making important decisions.
The Urim and Thummim were either on, by, or in the high priest’s breastplate. For this reason the breastplate is often called the breastplate of judgment, or decision…
The Jewish historian Josephus (A.D. 37-100?), a contemporary of the apostle John, believed that the Urim and Thummim had to do with the flashing of the precious stones in the breastplate. Later Jewish writers believed that the letters in the names of the twelve tribes of Israel engraved on the stones stood out or flashed in succession to spell out God’s answer. This theory does imply that the Urim and Thummim could produce answers to questions which called for more than a mere yes or no reply. Another theory is that by staring at the glow of the Urim and Thummim, the high priest went into a state of ecstasy or trance during which God spoke to him.
There are few allusions to the Urim and Thummim in the Bible. They are first mentioned in the description of the breastplate of judgment (Ex 28:30; Lev 8:8). When Joshua succeeded Moses, he was to have answers from the Urim through Eleazar the priest (Num 27:21). They are next mentioned in Moses’ dying blessing upon Levi (Deut 33:8). There are places in the Bible where Urim and Thummim may be implied but are not named (Josh 7:14-18; 1 Sam 14:37-45; 2 Sam 21:1).
Saul sought direction from the witch of En-dor when he could receive no answer from the Lord, “either by dreams or by Urim or by the prophets” (1 Sam 28:6). Another interesting reference to the Urim and Thummim occurred during the period after the return of the Jewish people from their years in captivity by the Babylonians. The Persian governor of Jerusalem denied the people permission to observe some of their ancient Jewish food laws until “a priest could consult with the Urim and Thummim” (Ezra 2:63).” [from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary]
(24) “ordination”: “The ceremony during which a person is admitted to the MINISTRY of A CHURCH.”…
(25) “Abraham”: (…”father of a multitude”). Up to Gen 17:5, also in 1 Chron 1:27; Neh 9:7, he is uniformly called Abram, “high father.”…
Family. Abraham was a native of Chaldea, and descendant in the ninth generation from Shem, the son of Noah…
Personal History. The life of Abraham, from his call to his death, consists of four periods, the commencement of each of which is marked by a divine revelation of sufficient importance to constitute a distinct epoch…
Man of Faith. The spiritual experience of Abraham was marked by four far-reaching crises in which his faith was tested, and which, in each case, called forth the surrender of something naturally most dear to him: first, his giving up country and kindred (Gen 12:1); second, his breaking off with his nephew, Lot, particularly close to Abraham by virtue of kinship as a fellow believer and possible heir (Gen 13); third, the abandonment of his own cherished plans for Ishmael and his being called upon to center his hope in the promise of the birth of Isaac (Gen 17:17-18); fourth, the supreme test of his mature life of faith in his willingness to offer up Isaac, his only son, whom he loved passionately and in whom all his expectations centered (Gen 22:1-19; Heb 11:17-18).
Man of Covenant Promise. As a friend of God and a man who implicitly trusted the divine promises, Abraham was the recipient of an important covenant involving not only himself, but his posterity, natural as well as spiritual. The Abrahamic covenant as originally given (Gen 12:1-4) and reaffirmed (Gen 13:14-17; 15:1-7; 17:1-8), contains the following elements:
(1) “I will make you a great nation,” fulfilled: (a) in a natural posterity, “as the dust of the earth,” the Hebrew people (13:16; 8:37), (b) in a spiritual progeny (John 8:39; Rom 4:16; Gal 3:6-7,29), comprising all persons of faith, whether Jew or Gentile, ©) in the descendants of Ishmael (Gen 17:18-20).
(2) “I will bless you,” fulfilled in a double sense: (a) temporally (Gen 13:14-18; 15:18) and (b) spiritually (Gen 15:6; John 8:56).
(3) “And make your name great.” In three great world religions-Judaism, Islam, and Christianity-Abraham is revered as one of the eminent men of all time.
(4) “And so you shall be a blessing.” By his personal example of faith and that faith as manifested in his descendants, Abraham has been a worldwide blessing.
(5) “I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse.” This has been remarkably fulfilled in the Jewish dispersion. Nations who have persecuted the Jews have fared ill, and those who have protected them have prospered. Prophecy, both fulfilled and unfulfilled, substantiates this principle (Deut 30:7; Mic 5:7-9; Hag 2:22; Zech 14:1-3; Jer 50:11-18; 51:24-36; Ezek 25:2; 26:2-3).
(6) “In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” This is the great messianic promise fulfilled in Abraham’s descendant, Christ (John 8:56-58; Gal 3:16).” (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary…)
(26) “Sarah”: “…We meet Sarah next in the narrative of the birth of Ishmael and of Isaac. Though 14 years separated the two births, they are closely associated in the story because of their logical continuity. Sarah’s barrenness persisted. She was now far past middle life, even on a patriarchal scale of longevity, and there appeared no hope of her ever bearing that child who should inherit the promise of God {God had promised her a child}. She therefore adopts {takes control herself} the expedient of being “builded by” her personal slave, Hagar the Egyptian (see Gen 16:2 margin)…, a son born of this woman would be the freeborn son and heir of Abraham and Sarah.
Such was in fact the position of Ishmael later. But the insolence of the maid aroused the vindictive jealousy of the mistress and led to a painful scene of unjustified expulsion. Hagar, however, returned at God’s behest, humbled herself before Sarah, and bore Ishmael in his own father’s house. Here he remained the sole and rightful heir, until the miracle of Isaac’s birth disappointed all human expectations and resulted in the ultimate expulsion of Hagar and her son.
The change of name from Sarai to Sarah when Isaac was promised” is noted in the Bible. “Sarah’s laughter of incredulity when she hears the promise is of course associated with the origin of the name of Isaac, but it serves also to emphasize the miraculous character of his birth, coming as it does after his parents are both so “well stricken in age” as to make parenthood seem an absurdity…
We see in Sarah, as the New Testament writers point out (Heb 11:11; 1 Peter 3:6), one who through a long life of companionship with Abraham shared his hope in God, his faith in the promises, and his power to become (26a)GOD’S AGENT FOR ACHIEVING WHAT WAS HUMANLY IMPOSSIBLE. IN FACT, TO SARAH IS ASCRIBED A SORT OF SPIRITUAL MATERNITY, CORRELATIVE WITH ABRAHAM’S POSITION AS “FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL”; FOR ALL WOMEN ARE DECLARED TO BE THE (SPIRITUAL) DAUGHTERS OF SARAH, who like her are adorned in “the hidden man {inner man; our spirit} of the heart,” and who are “doers of good” and “fearers of no terror” (1 Peter loc. cit., literally rendered)…”
“Apart from the three New Testament passages already cited, Sarah is alluded to only in Isa 51:2 (“Sarah that bare you,” as the mother of the nation)…” (from International Standard Bible Encyclopedia…)
(26a) “GOD’S AGENT FOR ACHIEVING WHAT WAS HUMANLY IMPOSSIBLE. IN FACT, TO SARAH IS ASCRIBED A SORT OF SPIRITUAL MATERNITY, CORRELATIVE WITH ABRAHAM’S POSITION AS “FATHER OF THE FAITHFUL”; FOR ALL WOMEN ARE DECLARED TO BE THE (SPIRITUAL) DAUGHTERS OF SARAH”: This is, of course, why God has included Sarah’s name in His {Jsne Leade’s} prophecy. The “newness” that comes upon God’s people is SPIRITUAL. It is His Spiritual Church as opposed to those who attend the physical religions only. As the Lord, Himself, said in this Prophecy, “The Lord sweareth in truth and righteousness that from Abraham’s line {genealogy, including Christ}, according to the Spirit, there shall arise a Holy Priesthood <Rev 1:6, 5:10, Rev 6-8>. Abraham and Sarah were a type {also similitude, pattern} of that which would be produced and manifested in the last age <Gal 3:16-18>.”
(27) “mighty Spirit of Cyrus is appointed to lay the foundation of this THIRD temple and support it in the building”: Nelson’s Bible Dictionary says, under “Cyrus”: “… (meaning unknown) – the powerful king of Persia (559 BC – 530 BC), sometimes called “Cyrus the Great,” who allowed the Jewish captives to return to their homeland in Jerusalem after he led the Persians to become the dominant nation in the ancient world. Within 20 years after becoming king of Persia, Cyrus had conquered the Medes, Lydians, and Babylonians (549, 547, and 539 BC, respectively). He is praised most highly, in the Old Testament, in Isa 44:28 and 45:1, where he is called God’s “shepherd” and His “anointed.”
Cyrus first appears in the Old Testament in connection with the release of the Jewish captives (taken in the Babylonian captivity of Judah), when he proclaimed their return from captivity (2 Chron 36:22-23; Ezra 1:1-4). This restoration, which was highlighted by the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, had been prophesied by Jeremiah (Jer 29:10-14; also see Isa 44:28). The Book of Ezra contains a number of reports on the progress of the work related to the decree of Cyrus (Ezra 3:7; 4:3,5; 5:13,14,17; 6:3,14). The only other references to Cyrus occur in Dan 1:21; 6:28; 10:1.
Cyrus was known in Persia as a wise and tolerant ruler. He was able to gain the goodwill of the varied ethnic and religious groups within his large empire, which extended from India to the western edge of Asia Minor (modern Turkey). The Old Testament describes him as chosen by the Lord God of Israel as the deliverer of His people. It was not that Cyrus became a follower of Israel’s God; rather, he described himself as the one who received “all the kingdoms of the earth.” He declared that God “commanded me to build Him a house at Jerusalem” (2 Chron 36:23)…” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
(28) “true sound of the Holy Spirit shall be discerned from all others that are low, false and counterfeit”:
“DISCERNING OF SPIRITS A gift of the Holy Spirit which enables a person to judge whether one who speaks in tongues {or prophesies} or performs miracles does so by the power of the Holy Spirit or by a false spirit (1 Cor 12:10). The apostle Paul suggested that A PERSON LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL BE CONCERNED FOR THOSE THINGS WHICH STRENGTHEN THE CHURCH {Christ’s One Spiritual Church} (1 Cor 14:12,26).” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary, under Discerning of Spirits, teaches, “(NASB and NIV, “distinguishing the spirits”). A spiritual gift enjoyed by certain Christians… enabling them to judge from what spirits the utterances they heard proceeded, whether from the Holy Spirit, human, or demonic spirits, thus preserving the church from misleading influences (1 Cor 12:10; cf. 1 Cor 14:29; (28a)1 John 4:1). (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary…)
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error. NKJV
(29) “edify”:
“EDIFICATION (Grk. oikodome, “building”). Means building up. A building is therefore called an edifice. Accordingly, the work of confirming believers in the faith of the gospel and adding to their knowledge and grace is appropriately expressed by this term. Christians are said in the NT to be edified by understanding spiritual truth (1 Cor 14:3-5), by the work of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (Eph 4:11-12, “building up”), and by good speech (4:29). The means to be used for one’s upbuilding are the study and hearing of God’s Word, prayer/{praise}, use of the sacraments, meditation, self-examination, and Christian work of every kind. It is our duty to edify or “build up one another” (1 Thess 5:11) by the exhibition of every grace of life and conversation. The term is also applied to believers as “living stones” builded up into a habitation for the Lord, constituting the great spiritual temple of God (Eph 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5).” (from The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary)
(30) “condescend”: “To come down voluntarily to the level of inferiors with whom one is dealing…to deal with people in a patronizing manner;… to yield or assent. [to stoop… to descend]”
(31) “emulation”: “ambition to equal or excel; effort to equal or surpass another”
(32) “profession”: “The act or an instance of professing: declaration; claim… avowal of faith in a religion. [… vow made on entering a religious order, from… declaration, confession from… profess.]” (American Heritage Dictionary)
(33) “First-born”; “THE FIRST BORN AFTER THE SPIRIT”; “firstfruits”: Also referred to in this Vision as the “Virgin Church”, Christ’s one Body, the remnant, 144,000, firstborn, First-fruit(s), the firstborn after the Spirit, the 144,000, and then all tongues, nations etc…
In this Vision we read:
The Church:
“The presence of the Divine Ark will constitute the life of this Virgin Church, and wherever this Body is, there must the ark of necessity be…
Authority shall be given by Christ to the putting an end to all controversies concerning the true church that is born of the New Jerusalem mother. This decision will be the actual sealing of the body of Christ with the name (or Authority) of God, giving them a commission to act by the same…
The election and preparation of this Virgin Church is to be after a secret and hidden manner. As David in his ministry was chosen and anointed by the prophet of the Lord, yet was not admitted to the outward profession of the Kingdom for a considerable time afterward, of the stem of David a Virgin Church, which hath known nothing of a man or human constitution, is to be born and it will require some time for it to get out of the minority and arrive at full and mature age…
The birth of this Virgin Church was typified by St. John’s vision where the great wonder appeared in heaven, bringing forth her first born that was caught up to the throne of God (or identified with the Authority of God). For as a virgin woman brought forth Christ after the flesh, so shall a Virgin Church bring forth the first born after the Spirit who shall be endowed with the seven spirits of God. This church so brought forth and sealed with the mark of Divine Authority will have no bonds or impositions, but the holy unction among these new born spirits will be all and all…
“There is not at this day {1600’s} visible upon the earth such a church, all profession being found light when weighed in the balances. Therefore they are rejected by the Supreme Judge {Lord; (Rev 6:10)}. Which rejection will be for this cause, that out of them {those light when weighed} may come a new and glorious church. Then shall the glory of God and the Lamb so rest upon this typical tabernacle {tent/church} so that it shall be called the Tabernacle of Wisdom, and though it is not now known in visibility, yet it {the church} shall be seen as coming out of the wilderness within a short time; then it will go on to multiply and propagate itself universally, not only to the number of the (33a)first born (144,000), but also to the (33b)remnant of the Seed {Christ Jesus}, against whom the Dragon will make war continually…
There are characteristics and marks whereby the pure Virgin Church shall be known and distinguished from all others and whereby the unction and true sound of the Holy Spirit shall be discerned from all others that are low, false and counterfeit. THERE MUST BE A MANIFESTATION OF THE SPIRIT WHEREBY TO EDIFY AND RAISE UP THIS CHURCH, whereby bringing heaven down upon the earth and representing here the New Jerusalem state in order to which spirits are thus begotten and born of God, ascend to New Jerusalem above where their Head in majesty doth reign…”
(33a) “firstborn/firstfruit”:
{from this vision}
“…Therefore, there should be a holy emulation and ambition stirred up among the bands of believers that they may be of the firstfruits unto Him that is risen from the dead and so be made principal agents for Him and with Him, that they may be, if possible, of the number of the First-born, of the New Jerusalem mother…”
[Revelation 1:4-6] John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him. NKJV
[Rom 8:18-39] For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.
[Col 1:15-18] He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. NKJV
(33b) “remnant of the (33b1)Seed”: “The part of a community or nation that remains after a dreadful judgment or devastating calamity, especially those who have escaped and remain to form the nucleus of a new community (Isa 10:20-23). The survival of a righteous remnant rests solely on God’s providential care for His Chosen People and His faithfulness to keep His COVENANT promises.
The concept of the remnant has its roots in the Book of Deuteronomy (4:27-31; 28:62-68; 30:1-10), where Moses warned the people of Israel that they would be scattered among the nations. But God also promised that He would bring the people back from captivity and establish them again in the land of their fathers. This concept was picked up by the prophets, who spoke of the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. The concept was extended to apply also to the gathering of a righteous remnant at the time when the Messiah came to establish His kingdom.
In Amos and Isaiah the remnant consisted of those chosen by God who were rescued from the impending doom of the nation (Isa 1:9; Amos 5:14-15). As such, they were labeled “the poor,” those who suffer for God (Isa 29:19; 41:17). At the same time, they serve God and stand before the nation as witnesses, calling the people to repent of their rebellion.
In the New Testament the apostle Paul picked up the teaching of Isaiah and other prophets about the remnant and applied it to the church (Rom 11:5). Paul showed that God’s purpose is seen in the “remnant” out of Israel who have joined the Gentiles to form the church, the new people of God. Further, Jesus’ choice of twelve apostles built upon remnant themes. Symbolizing the twelve tribes, the apostles became the remnant who erected a new structure, the church, upon the foundation of Israel. In the church, both Jews and Gentiles, circumcised and uncircumcised, find their true spiritual home when they believe in Christ.” (from Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary…)
(33b1) “Seed”: [Gal 3:16] Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, “And to seeds ,” as of many, but as of one, “And to your Seed ,” who is Christ. NKJV
(33c) “Body”: This vision teaches us that the Body” of Christ is: “…required on their part to suffer the Spirit of burning, and the fanning of the Fiery Breath searching every part within them until they arrive at a Fixed Body {“firmly in position: stationary; unmovable”; not subject to change or variation; constant; prearranged to outcome} from whence the wonders are to flow out…
The presence of the Divine Ark will constitute the life of this Virgin Church, and wherever this Body is, there must the ark of necessity be…
Authority shall be given by Christ to the putting an end to all controversies concerning the true church that is born of the New Jerusalem mother. This decision will be the actual sealing of the body of Christ with the name (or Authority) of God, giving them a commission to act by the same…
Upon this Body will be the fixation {to fix, fasten on} of the Urim and Thummim that are the portion of the Melchizedek priesthood whose descent is not counted in the genealogy of that creation which is under the fall; but in another genealogy which is a New Creation. Hence these priests {under our High Priest Jesus Christ} will have a deep inward search and divine sight into secret things of Deity, will be able to PROPHESY in a clear ground
OUR COMMENT SECTION is at the very bottom of this page (IN THE WHITE SECTION) on YOUR left hand side. I would love to hear from you regarding your thoughts on this piece (or any piece on this site/blog 🙂
Hello Chris, again!
You have really done some work with the bible! I can see it because
I occasionally do some similar type of job for my little (spiritual) here in
Helsinki, Finland.
You may know it yourself, but just in case, I send you links for
3 bible editions indispensable for folks like us. They are free:
1. Hebraic Roots Bible, updated 2012. It has re-constituted God’s name
(YHWH , 6807 times)
and attribute names (3552 occations), TOTAL 10359 times.
And another important feature: The New Test. is based on Aramaic
language, the one Jesus and His students (disciples) spoke. I believe
the NT was written (spoken) in Aramaic and translated to Greek. Some
parts of the OT are ONLY in Aramaic (small parts of Esra and Daniel).
http://www.coyhwh.com/en/bible.php http://hebrewbible.co/
2. Interlinear Scripture Analyser (ISA), word_by-word Greek-English &
Hebrew-English. Languages displayed as they are.
– ISA version 2 is based on codex “textus receptus”, the one K-J uses
http://www.scripture4all.org/download/download_ISA2.php
– ISA version 3 is based on codex “textus sinaiticus”, newer version
http://www.scripture4all.org/
… Does work with Win 10.This give you tremendous power to find original
translation, meaning of every word without grammar. You can also search
by Hebrew or Greek words and see all verses where they occur.
Indispensable.
Your bro. Stefan, of Finland
Hi Stefan, How nice to hear from you. Sounds like you enjoy studying the Bible like I do. I’m sure many of our readers will appreciate the info you sent – I know that I do. I have loaded onto my computer the software program Biblesoft that helps me also. It has much of what you are talking about also. I don’t feel free to recommend downloads to our readers/viewers, from any sites or programs, but have passed on your very valuable information to our viewers. Again, thank you so much!. In Christ’s Love, Chris.
Comments are closed.