Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Revelation chapter Breakdown UPDATE (Book)

  1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants—things which must shortly take place. And He   sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John, who bore witness to the word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus     Christ, to all things that he saw.

In this profound introduction, we witness the divine intention behind the Revelation. YHWH bestowed this insight upon Yeshua, who, in turn, entrusted it to an angel for John. This sequence underscores the sacred responsibility of conveying truths about the future, particularly concerning the last days.

    Daniel 2:28-29

But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days. Your dream, and the visions of your head upon your bed, were these: As for you, O king, thoughts came to your mind while on your bed, about what would come to pass after this; and He who reveals secrets has made known to you what will be.

Here, we draw parallels to the prophetic revelations given to Nebuchadnezzar, which Daniel interpreted. A revelation signifies the disclosure of previously unknown truths, often concerning humanity's future. This context establishes the gravity of what is to come—events signaling the end of our current world.

3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.

The promise of blessing for those who engage with this prophecy is unique within Scripture. There is no other book in the entire bible such a claim the reader will be blessed from reading, hearing and keeping the words held within. The urgency conveyed by "the time is near," penned over 2,000 years ago, compels us to reflect on the current state of our world. If we identify as believers, we must acknowledge that we are potentially living in the biblical last days. Let’s also take into consideration what Peter had to say about the last days.

2 Peter 3:1-4

Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior, knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.”

This passage underscores the skepticism that arises as we approach the culmination of prophecy. It aligns with Isaiah.

Isaiah 5:20

Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

Such proclamations resonate in our contemporary society, where moral confusion reigns. The persistence of such attitudes signals the reality of our times as we anticipate Yeshua’s return.

I understand this is just a small easy prophecy, but nevertheless, it is true. More and more believers are subject to men who chooses to walk according to fleshy lusts which ultimately ends up with men calling things good which YHWH has made clear are evil, and calling evil things YHWH has made for good. If we truly consider the world we are living in today, there should absolutely be no misguided understanding, we are certainly living in the last days before the second coming of Yeshua, our Messiah.

The Seven Churches and Their Significance

4 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, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Isaiah 11:2

The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, The Spirit of wisdom and understanding, The Spirit of counsel and might, The Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.

Psalm 89:27

Also I will make him My firstborn, The highest of the kings of the earth.

Exodus 19:6

And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.”

This Old Testament promise is fulfilled in the New Covenant, signifying that there are two distinct groups of believers in the last days: those who keep God’s commandments and those who do not. The former will be recognized as the Bride of Christ, while the latter will dwell within the kingdom but outside the temple.

  In the context of the early Christian church, John’s letter addresses the seven churches of Asia, all situated in present-day   Turkey. At the heart of this revelation stands Yeshua, the one who is, who was, and who is to come—the firstborn and          only Son of YHWH.

Before the throne of YHWH, we encounter the seven spirits that comprise the fullness of His Spirit: the Spirit of the Lord, Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Might, Knowledge, and the Fear of the Lord. These manifestations serve as divine attributes that guide and empower the faithful.

Believers are called to be a kingdom of priests for YHWH, an intriguing notion when we consider the Old Testament priests—primarily the Levites—tasked with upholding God’s Law. This raises a point of speculation that I find compelling: in the last days, there appear to be two distinct groups among believers. Those who diligently observe God's commandments may be viewed as the Bride of Christ, while those who do not, though still part of the kingdom, may find themselves outside the temple’s inner sanctum.

Reflecting on the twelve gates of the New Jerusalem, we note the absence of Levi and Joseph, replaced instead by the names of Joseph’s two sons. This omission suggests a significant theological implication—those who uphold God's Law are granted the privilege of residing within the temple, thereby embodying the Bride. The gates, named after the twelve tribes—Asher, Dan, Ephraim, Gad, Issachar, Manasseh, Naphtali, Reuben, Simeon, Zebulun, Judah, and Benjamin—underscore this distinction and illuminate the eternal relationship between the faithful and the divine.

The Coming of Yeshua

7 Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.

Malachi 4:1-6

“For behold, the day is coming, Burning like an oven, And all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,” Says the Lord of hosts, “That will leave them neither root nor branch. But to you who fear My name The Sun of Righteousness shall arise With healing in His wings; And you shall go out And grow fat like stall-fed calves. You shall trample the wicked, For they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet On the day that I do this,” Says the Lord of hosts. “Remember the Law of Moses, My servant, Which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel, With the statutes and judgments. Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet Before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he will turn The hearts of the fathers to the children, And the hearts of the children to their fathers, Lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.”

This verse affirms the visibility and impact of Yeshua’s return. The mourning described reflects a sobering realization among those who once doubted or rejected Him.

This verse from Revelation has sparked considerable discussion, particularly among proponents of preterism—the theory that asserts Jesus has already returned. The text states that even those who pierced Him will witness His descent, a point often cited in support of this viewpoint. However, I find the preterist interpretation lacking, given the numerous other scriptural prophecies that must be fulfilled prior to His return, many of which remain unfulfilled.

From my perspective, this verse suggests one of two possibilities. First, it may refer to the descendants of those who pierced Yeshua, indicating that they will indeed witness His descent. Alternatively, it could imply that those who have passed away, including those who directly pierced Him, will also behold His coming. Each interpretation invites us to reflect on the profound implications of Yeshua's return and the enduring impact of His sacrifice.

Mark 13:24-27

“But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.

Mark’s account significantly counters the preterist interpretation, particularly with the eschatological events he describes. He clearly outlines that, following the tribulation, the sun and moon will cease to give light, and the stars—often understood as angels—will fall from heaven to earth.

This imagery invites intriguing speculation: could these fallen stars represent the army of saints who accompany Christ upon His return? The idea that celestial beings may play a pivotal role in this grand revelation not only deepens our understanding of the narrative but also highlights the cosmic significance of His second coming. Mark’s depiction serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative and climactic nature of these prophetic events.

Isaiah 66:15-16

For behold, the Lord will come with fire And with His chariots, like a whirlwind, To render His anger with fury, And His rebuke with flames of fire. For by fire and by His sword The Lord will judge all flesh; And the slain of the Lord shall be many.

This imagery paints a powerful portrait of divine judgment, as the Lord descends amidst clouds and flames, poised to execute His righteous anger. His coming is not merely a moment of revelation but a decisive act of justice, aimed at both the living and the dead. In this solemn promise, we are reminded of the gravity of His authority and the magnitude of His judgment, where every soul will stand before Him, accountable for their deeds. The vivid descriptions serve to emphasize the seriousness of His mission: to purify, to judge, and ultimately, to establish His kingdom in righteousness.

Luke 21:25-28

“And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.”

Before the sun and moon cease to shine, we are warned of unmistakable signs in the heavens, heralding a time of great confusion and distress among the nations. The roaring of the seas will reflect the turmoil within human hearts, as fear grips many in anticipation of the unfolding events. Yet, amidst this chaos, believers are called to a different response: rather than succumb to fear, they are urged to look up and lift their heads, recognizing that restoration is imminent. This pivotal moment serves as both a warning and a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest times, redemption is drawing near.

Daniel 7:13

“I was watching in the night visions, And behold, One like the Son of Man, Coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him.

Zechariah 12:10-14

“And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn. In that day there shall be a great mourning in Jerusalem, like the mourning at Hadad Rimmon in the plain of Megiddo. And the land shall mourn, every family by itself: the family of the house of David by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of the house of Nathan by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of the house of Levi by itself, and their wives by themselves; the family of Shimei by itself, and their wives by themselves; all the families that remain, every family by itself, and their wives by themselves.

Psalm 4:3

But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; The Lord will hear when I call to Him.

When Yeshua returns, He will come on the clouds, accompanied by chariots of fire, a dramatic fulfillment of prophecy that will leave no eye unobserved. In that moment, the world will witness the culmination of divine promise, an event steeped in both awe and solemnity.

As Christ descends, a wave of mourning will sweep over those who behold Him. This sorrow arises not from a lack of faith but from a profound realization—their belief is no longer a matter of faith alone; they now witness the truth with their own eyes. They grieve, recognizing the grievous error of their past disbelief, confronted by the scars that bear witness to His suffering for the lost sheep of the House of Israel.

In light of these events, the book of Malachi offers a crucial admonition: “Remember the Law of Moses, My servant, which I commanded him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments.” The significance of His Law cannot be overstated; it is the means by which we express our love for Him. By adhering to His commandments, we distinguish ourselves from those who oppose Him, embodying a commitment that sets us apart. His Law is intended for all Israel, and through faith, we are grafted into this covenant community, embracing a legacy that transcends time and affirms our identity as His chosen people.

Romans 11:17-24

And if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them, and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree do not boast against the branches. But if you do boast, remember that you do not support the root, but the root supports you.

You will say then, “Branches were broken off that I might be grafted in.” Well said. Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise you also will be cut off. And they also, if they do not continue in unbelief, will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?

Jeremiah 11:16

The Lord called your name, Green Olive Tree, Lovely and of Good Fruit. With the noise of a great tumult He has kindled fire on it, And its branches are broken.

In Romans, the Apostle Paul employs the metaphor of grafting to illustrate the relationship between Gentile believers and the Jewish people within the framework of God’s covenant. He explains that some branches, representing the Israelites, have been broken off due to unbelief, while Gentiles, depicted as wild olive branches, have been grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel. This imagery emphasizes both the inclusion of Gentiles into God’s promises and the precariousness of their position.

Paul warns against prideful boasting among the Gentiles, reminding them that they are supported by the root of the olive tree, which symbolizes the patriarchs and the covenantal promises of God. He underscores the importance of humility and faith, cautioning that just as the natural branches were cut off for their lack of faith, the same could happen to the Gentiles if they become arrogant. This passage reflects the dual nature of God’s character: His goodness toward those who believe and His severity toward those who reject Him. Paul encourages a continual reliance on God's grace, affirming that if the Jewish people turn back to faith, they too can be regrafted into their own olive tree, highlighting the hope of restoration for all.

Jeremiah complements this theme by referring to Israel as a "Green Olive Tree," a symbol of beauty, vitality, and fruitfulness. This imagery conveys God's deep affection for His people and the potential for growth and prosperity. However, the verse also carries a sobering message about impending judgment. The mention of God kindling fire upon the olive tree suggests a time of great turmoil and distress, leading to the breaking of its branches. This serves as a poignant reminder that, while Israel is beloved and has a special place in God's plan, it is also subject to His discipline when it strays from faithfulness.

Together, these passages emphasize the intertwining destinies of Gentile believers and Israel, underscoring themes of inclusion, accountability, and the possibility of restoration. They invite reflection on the seriousness of faith, the importance of humility, and the enduring love of God for His people, both Jew and Gentile, within the unfolding narrative of salvation.

8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” says the Lord, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

Isaiah 41:4

Who has performed and done it, Calling the generations from the beginning? ‘I, the Lord, am the first; And with the last I am He.’ ”

The declaration, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,” serves as a profound affirmation of God's eternal nature and sovereignty over time and creation. This is Yeshua making the statement, YHWH also declares Himself in the same way indicating they are one and the same.

By identifying Himself with these Greek letters, the first and last of the alphabet, God emphasizes that He encompasses all things—every aspect of existence finds its origin in Him and culminates in Him. This statement encapsulates the entirety of the divine narrative, highlighting God's omnipresence as "the Almighty"—a title that reinforces His power and authority over all that is, was, and will be. This timelessness assures believers of His unchanging presence and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises throughout history.

Isaiah echoes this theme of divine sovereignty and eternal existence. Here, God asserts His role as the Creator and Sustainer of all generations. The rhetorical question invites reflection on the divine orchestration of history, emphasizing that all events unfold under His watchful eye and according to His will. By declaring Himself as "the first" and "the last," God reaffirms His control over time, suggesting that He not only initiates creation but also holds the final authority over its destiny.

Together, these passages illustrate a central tenet of faith: the God who transcends time is deeply involved in the unfolding of human history. His eternal nature offers comfort to believers, assuring them that they are part of a larger divine plan that spans from the beginning of time to its ultimate conclusion. This understanding fosters a sense of purpose and security, encouraging believers to trust in God’s unwavering presence and guidance throughout their lives. In a world often marked by uncertainty and change, these verses remind us of the steadfastness of the Almighty, who is both the source of creation and its final fulfillment.

9 I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

John encapsulates the essence of the Christian experience: a shared journey through tribulation, a hopeful anticipation of God's kingdom, and an unwavering commitment to the testimony of Yeshua. John’s words serve as a reminder that believers are not alone in their struggles; they are part of a larger community, united in faith and perseverance, called to bear witness to the transformative power of Christ, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Moreover, John's identification of the "word of God" and "the testimony of Jesus Christ" reflects the centrality of Scripture and the witness of Christ in the life of the believer. It emphasizes that even in hardship, the truth of God's word and the example of Jesus remain vital sources of strength and inspiration.

Revelation 14:12

Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.

If John faced persecution for upholding the Law of God and maintaining faith in Yeshua, we should prepare ourselves for similar trials in our own time. The challenges we encounter may indeed be more severe, particularly as we approach what could be seen as Satan's final, desperate attempt to undermine YHWH's sovereignty. This impending tribulation underscores the gravity of our commitment to righteousness and the inevitable opposition we may face.

This perspective is a significant reason for my skepticism regarding the pretribulation rapture. The notion that believers would be exempt from suffering contradicts the experiences of faithful followers throughout history, including those of the early church. Rather than escaping trials, we are called to endure and remain steadfast in our faith, fully aware that such tribulations serve a greater purpose in the divine narrative. Ultimately, embracing this reality prepares us to confront the challenges ahead with courage and conviction.

10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s Day, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet, saying, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,” and, “What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.”

John was transported in spirit to the Lord's Day, where he encountered a voice like a trumpet—recognized as the voice of Yeshua. The seven churches addressed in this revelation are situated in what is now modern-day Turkey, a detail that will prove crucial as we delve into the prophecies contained within this book.

Among these churches, the church of Ephesus holds particular significance, as it is the recipient of Paul's epistle to the Ephesians. This connection will allow us to draw important insights from that letter as we continue our exploration of the messages intended for these communities.

12 Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 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.

Exodus 37:22-24

Their knobs and their branches were of one piece; all of it was one hammered piece of pure gold. And he made its seven lamps, its wick-trimmers, and its trays of pure gold. Of a talent of pure gold he made it, with all its utensils.

Daniel 7:13

“I was watching in the night visions, And behold, One like the Son of Man, Coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him.

John sees "One like the Son of Man" amidst the golden lampstands. This imagery signifies Christ's active and present role within the church, highlighting His authority and care for the community of believers. The description of Him being clothed in a garment down to the feet and girded with a golden band suggests His high priestly status, indicating His role as both mediator and king.

14 His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.

Daniel 7:9-10

“I watched till thrones were put in place, And the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, And the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, Its wheels a burning fire; A fiery stream issued And came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, And the books were opened.

Daniel 10:6

His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning, his eyes like torches of fire, his arms and feet like burnished bronze in color, and the sound of his words like the voice of a multitude

Yeshua is depicted with a head of hair as white as snow, and His eyes resemble flames of fire, conveying a striking image of purity and intense scrutiny. His feet and arms are described as being the color of polished brass, symbolizing strength and resilience. His voice resonates like the sound of powerful rushing waters, suggesting authority and presence. The stars held in His hand represent angels, indicating His sovereign control over these heavenly beings. Furthermore, I propose that every instance where the term "star(s)" appears in this book refers to angels. His countenance shines with a brilliance likened to lightning, reflecting the radiance of the sun in its full strength.

Jude 1:14-19

Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judgment on all, to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.” These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage. But you, beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ: how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts. These are sensual persons, who cause divisions, not having the Spirit.

Psalm 110: 5-6

The Lord is at Your right hand; He shall execute kings in the day of His wrath. He shall judge among the nations, He shall fill the places with dead bodies, He shall execute the heads of many countries.

A forthcoming court hearing will see Yeshua presiding as the judge, rendering judgment against all who are ungodly. Jude specifically highlights that those who lack the Spirit of God are walking in the flesh, driven by their own ungodly desires. Conversely, this implies that those who possess the Spirit of God are not governed by the lusts of the flesh. It is important to note that these fleshly desires stand in opposition to the Law of God, emphasizing the stark contrast between spiritual living and carnal impulses.

17 And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.

Isaiah 41:4. 44:6

Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel, And his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: ‘I am the First and I am the Last; Besides Me there is no God.

The parallels in these passages underscore a significant theological connection between YHWH and Yeshua, affirming the unity of their divine nature. Both affirmations—Yeshua’s declaration in Revelation and YHWH’s proclamation in Isaiah—assert that there is no other God besides Him, reinforcing the understanding that Yeshua and YHWH are one and the same. This reinforces the notion of Christ's divine authority and identity within the broader context of Scripture.

18 I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.

Hosea 13:14

“I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. O Death, I will be your plagues! O Grave, I will be your destruction! Pity is hidden from My eyes.”

Yeshua is the eternal one who lives, having died but now lives forevermore. He holds the keys to hell and death, symbolizing His ultimate authority over life and the afterlife. The similarities in the terminology used to refer to both YHWH and Yeshua underscore their essential unity; it is evident that they are one and the same.

Attempts to create a separation between the Old and New Testaments are fraught with danger. I firmly believe that chapter one of Revelation serves to illustrate the continuity between these two sections of Scripture, affirming that YHWH and Yeshua are indeed the same almighty God. This understanding is crucial for a coherent theological perspective that honors the entirety of the biblical narrative.

19 Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.

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.

The seven stars represent angels, while the seven lampstands correspond to the churches of Asia mentioned earlier.

Key insights from the first chapter of Revelation include the following: Yeshua entrusts a heavenly angel with the visions intended for John, emphasizing the divine origin of these revelations. Those who read and hear this book are promised blessings. All seven churches listed are situated in what is now modern-day Turkey. YHWH is associated with seven spirits, all of which are detailed in prior passages. Additionally, it is affirmed that Yeshua and YHWH are one and the same.

Furthermore, a critical perspective is offered regarding contemporary medicine, which is described as akin to witchcraft. Lastly, Yeshua is prophesied to return to Earth, riding on an enflamed cloud, with the dual purpose of judging the wicked and establishing His reign as King of His Kingdom.

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Thursday, September 12, 2024

The Seventh Commandment

 Exodus 20: 14

Thou shall not commit adultery

Adultery is a big issue according to the Word of God. There are numerous mentions of it throughout both the Old and New Testaments. We will look at both spousal and spiritual adultery in this section. We all have a good idea that adultery is sexual relations either while being married to another person not your spouse or with a person who is married. Of course we can all see how that would cause pain and suffering in the relationship with the spouse. Here are a few adulterous issues from the Bible.

Hebrews 13:4

Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.

YHWH will judge those who are not only adulterers, but those who simply engage in premarital sex for the simple pleasures of the act. Why would YHWH do this? The answer is simple, but let’s read a bit more first.

Proverbs 6:32-35

Whoever commits adultery with a woman lacks understanding; He who does so destroys his own soul. Wounds and dishonor he will get, And his reproach will not be wiped away. For jealousy is a husband’s fury; Therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance. He will accept no recompense, Nor will he be appeased though you give many gifts.

Next we see that pain I was referring to earlier. A man will face the husband’s wrath and will not be placated with apologies, money, or gifts. There is nothing a man can do once he is found out about sleeping with another man’s wife. The pain the husband feels knowing of the adulterous acts that had been committed. This is precisely why YHWH makes this a commandment. This sin causes pain for everyone involved.

Luke 16:18

Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced from her husband commits adultery. “

Here even a man who marries a divorced woman is committing adultery. YHWH does not want us to divorce and remarry. We are meant to be one flesh with the one we marry and not to split up.

Matthew 5:27-32

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.

“Furthermore it has been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.

Not only is committing the act adultery but Yeshua took it to the next level and said even the one who fantasizes about sexual acts with someone not their spouse is being adulterous. Also, when you divorce, you are causing your spouse to become an adulterer, as well as yourself.

Matthew 19:7-9

They said to Him, “Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?”

He said to them, “Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”

The only reason we have divorce even being tolerable is because men would allow a stubbornness of forgiveness toward his wife. YHWH did not want us to feel this way about our spouses. Divorce was not meant to be, but since it was ultimately allowed, especially in cases of adultery, we see it needing to be addressed again. Here is the original law YHWH gives found in the Old Testament.

This is the perfect place to Segway into spiritual adultery. The concept of adultery applies to both spiritual and physical marriage. That being said, as we move through this next part, identify how both have an impact.

Isaiah 54: 5

For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth.

We see here, YHWH calls Himself the husband of Israel. His people are Israel and those who believe in Him are Israel today, but there is a lot more to the story than just that.

Deuteronomy 7: 6-8

“For you are a holy people to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth. The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples; but because the Lord loves you, and because He would keep the oath which He swore to your fathers, the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.

YHWH loves His people. He chose them. This is exactly like a marriage, which is the covenant. There is a marriage law concerning divorce given by YHWH that we will get into next.

Deuteronomy 24: 1-4

“When a man takes a wife and marries her, and it happens that she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some uncleanness in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce, puts it in her hand, and sends her out of his house, when she has departed from his house, and goes and becomes another man’s wife, if the latter husband detests her and writes her a certificate of divorce, puts it in her hand, and sends her out of his house, or if the latter husband dies who took her as his wife, then her former husband who divorced her must not take her back to be his wife after she has been defiled; for that is an abomination before the Lord, and you shall not bring sin on the land which the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance.

This is simply saying, if a woman is divorced then remarries, when/if that second marriage ends, the first husband may not take the woman back because she has been with someone else intimately. This plays directly into the spiritual adultery. Here is why, YHWH divorced Israel, well the Northern 10 of the 12 tribes. In the next verses, YHWH is speaking to Israel.

Jeremiah 3: 1-10

“They say, ‘If a man divorces his wife, And she goes from him And becomes another man’s, May he return to her again?’ Would not that land be greatly polluted? But you have played the harlot with many lovers; Yet return to Me,” says the Lord.

“Lift up your eyes to the desolate heights and see: Where have you not lain with men? By the road you have sat for them Like an Arabian in the wilderness; And you have polluted the land With your harlotries and your wickedness. Therefore the showers have been withheld, And there has been no latter rain. You have had a harlot’s forehead; You refuse to be ashamed. Will you not from this time cry to Me, ‘My Father, You are the guide of my youth? Will He remain angry forever? Will He keep it to the end?’ Behold, you have spoken and done evil things, As you were able.”

The Lord said also to me in the days of Josiah the king: “Have you seen what backsliding Israel has done? She has gone up on every high mountain and under every green tree, and there played the harlot. And I said, after she had done all these things, ‘Return to Me.’ But she did not return. And her treacherous sister Judah saw it. Then I saw that for all the causes for which backsliding Israel had committed adultery, I had put her away and given her a certificate of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah did not fear, but went and played the harlot also. So it came to pass, through her casual harlotry, that she defiled the land and committed adultery with stones and trees. And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense,” says the Lord.

Israel was divorced by YHWH. And followed His law in doing so by giving her the certificate of divorce. Because they went away from YHWH and chose to love and worship other gods, they were sent out of His house and into all the other nations of the world.

Deuteronomy 28: 58, 64

If you do not carefully observe all the words of this law that are written in this book, that you may fear this glorious and awesome name, THE LORD YOUR GOD…

Then the Lord will scatter you among all peoples, from one end of the earth to the other, and there you shall serve other gods, which neither you nor your fathers have known—wood and stone.

Now according to that law, that wife cannot be taken back once divorced and “defiled” by another. How then, does YHWH plan to bring them back to him without breaking His own law?

Jeremiah 38: 37-40

Behold, I will gather them out of all countries where I have driven them in My anger, in My fury, and in great wrath; I will bring them back to this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely. They shall be My people, and I will be their God; then I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear Me forever, for the good of them and their children after them. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me.

Up to this point, we have read YHWH calling himself the husband, meaning the original covenant was like a marriage contract. Then we see YHWH divorced a portion of them, the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Now we see He will bring them back after having scattered them throughout the entire world. But how can he did this without breaking his own law stating the husband cannot take back His divorced wife?

Romans 7:1-6

Or do you not know, brethren (for I speak to those who know the law), that the law has dominion over a man as long as he lives? For the woman who has a husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives. But if the husband dies, she is released from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband lives, she marries another man, she will be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is no adulteress, though she has married another man. Therefore, my brethren, you also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ, that you may be married to another—to Him who was raised from the dead, that we should bear fruit to God. For when we were in the flesh, the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death. But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter.

1 Corinthians 7: 39

A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.

This was the plan because of the love YHWH has for us. This is why He died for us. This is the law that no longer applies to us. The New Covenant has all the same rules as the Old Testament, with the death of Christ releasing Israel from the marriage law. This also really helps us understand why Yeshua said these words.

Matthew 15: 24

But He answered and said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

Yeshua, must be YHWH in the flesh. It is the only way for His death to bring the releasing of Israel from the law that bound them to Him. This is why there is so much that covers adultery and sexual immorality. It is a topic that is very dear to YHWH’s own heart. He loves us so much…

John 3: 16

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Romans 5: 8

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 Corinthians 15: 3-4

For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures

He died and has risen again in order to release Israel from the marriage law and be able to remarry Israel again as the perfect husband. There is no doubt that His love for all of Israel supersedes anything we could understand for a false god. So what can we do to try to show our love back to Him?

1 John 3: 4

Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.

John 14: 15

If you love Me, keep My commandments.

Not keeping His law or commands means you are breaking them, and therefore, sinning. He does not want that for us because if we love Him we will keep his law. As to which law, I say all of it to be as perfect as we can be. But here is a good place to start.

Matthew 19: 16-19

Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?”

So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”

He said to Him, “Which ones?”

Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”

These come directly from the Ten Commandments. We should definitely start there and then study to understand and keep the rest that would apply to us.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

The Eighth Commandment

 Exodus 20: 15

Thou shall not steal

As we all know and believe, stealing is taking anything that is not our own. Some examples would be taking a candy bar from the store without paying, taking a $20 bill from the counter at your neighbor’s house. But what if we take it a bit deeper. Stealing is also claiming an extra hour of work on your time sheet that you didn’t actually work. Or even not paying your worker for work that was completed.

Here is an example from Genesis of stealing and why we should not do it.

Genesis 31: 33-35

And Laban went into Jacob’s tent, into Leah’s tent, and into the two maids’ tents, but he did not find them. Then he went out of Leah’s tent and entered Rachel’s tent. Now Rachel had taken the household idols, put them in the camel’s saddle, and sat on them. And Laban searched all about the tent but did not find them. And she said to her father, “Let it not displease my lord that I cannot rise before you, for the manner of women is with me.” And he searched but did not find the household idols.

Rachel stole from her father and did not tell anyone about it. This causes Jacob to be accused in front of all the people by her father of stealing. She later had to lie to her father about why she could not stand up to greet him.

Ultimately, we see that stealing is very connected to coveting. It is just the next step. But this sin too leads to more sin. Once you steal, you then will almost always be forced to lie about it and lying is considered disgraceful to YHWH.

Proverbs 12:22

Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, But those who deal truthfully are His delight.

Next we have the people as a whole of Israel stealing something that was cursed. This lead to negative consequences.

Joshua 7:11-13

Israel has sinned, and they have also transgressed My covenant which I commanded them. For they have even taken some of the accursed things, and have both stolen and deceived; and they have also put it among their own stuff. Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they have become doomed to destruction. Neither will I be with you anymore, unless you destroy the accursed from among you. Get up, sanctify the people, and say, ‘Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the Lord God of Israel: “There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you.”

First off, Achan stole things. Second, some of those things were considered cursed by YHWH and would cause Israel to no longer be able to stand against their enemies because it was in their possession. Notice that all Israel was being held accountable because of this. Next, notice what Achan has to say about why he stole it in the following passage.

Joshua 7: 20-21

And Achan answered Joshua and said, “Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and this is what I have done: When I saw among the spoils a beautiful Babylonian garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. And there they are, hidden in the earth in the midst of my tent, with the silver under it.”

Achan took a Babylonian article of clothing, gold and silver. He says he “coveted” these things. Again we see, sin leads to sin. Stealing comes from the coveting of an object. We should never want something so bad as to feel the need to take it from someone else. Also, the taking from someone hurts that other person. It causes that person a pain that is hard to describe. It is a violation of one’s self security. I remember I had a radio stolen from my car. The feeling you get when you notice someone has violated the safety of your property, it makes you feel as if nothing you have is safe. It puts you in an uneasy state of unrest. This is not what YHWH wants for us and He definitely doesn’t want us to put others in this state. He loves us and He loves them.

Acts 20: 35

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

 

Thursday, September 5, 2024

The Ninth Commandment

 Exodus 20:16

You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

Bearing false witness is similar to lying. But only it is more directed at hurting another person’s reputation. The intent behind this lie is to cause harm.  

Proverbs 14: 5

A faithful witness does not lie, But a false witness will utter lies.

There are a couple examples about bearing false witness found in the Bible. The first is the Pharisees going against Yeshua. The intent behind the false witness was to justify a reason to kill Him.

Matthew 26: 59-61

Now the chief priests, the elders, and all the council sought false testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. Even though many false witnesses came forward, they found none. But at last two false witnesses came forward and said, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and to build it in three days.’ ”

2 Corinthians 13: 1

This will be the third time I am coming to you. “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.”

Deuteronomy 17: 6

Whoever is deserving of death shall be put to death on the testimony of two or three witnesses; he shall not be put to death on the testimony of one witness.

To make matters worse, they made sure to find two false witnesses in order to ensure Yeshua would be put to death. They knew, according to the word of God, in order for death to be the punishment, they needed two or more witnesses. Not only did they conspire to show He wasn’t who He said He was, they conspired to make sure He would be murdered.

Bearing false witness against your neighbor can only bring problems for them, and in some cases even bring unforeseeable circumstances that could compound the entire situation. For example, if you make a call to police and falsely claim your neighbor is harming children. The police will no doubt investigate. If it is not true, the damage is already done. He could lose a job, kids or his marriage. But ultimately YHWH does not want you to desire for the downfall of your fellow man. Remember we are supposed to love one another. Imagine if your neighbor made false claims about you in a similar matter. Your life could be destroyed over a lie. Therefore, follow what Yeshua called the second commandment.

Leviticus 19: 18

You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.

Mark 12: 30-31

And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

This is the biggest thing, in my opinion, YHWH wants us to love each other. He wants us to do to each other the things we would like them to do to us and that being said, not one of us would want our neighbor to lie about us and cause immense conflict in our lives.

Matthew 7:12

Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

The next example is that of Stephen. These men were able to conspire against him and talk others into bearing false witness against Stephen. Stephen had been doing a very good job of preaching Gods word, but it went against what the leaders where preaching. They did not like that, but they couldn’t argue against him because his words were in alignment with the Old Testament.

Acts 6: 8-14

And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Then there arose some from what is called the Synagogue of the Freedmen (Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia), disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke. Then they secretly induced men to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” And they stirred up the people, the elders, and the scribes; and they came upon him, seized him, and brought him to the council. They also set up false witnesses who said, “This man does not cease to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs which Moses delivered to us.”

Acts 7: 54-60

When they heard these things they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed at him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and said, “Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”

Then they cried out with a loud voice, stopped their ears, and ran at him with one accord; and they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul. And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

The intent behind the false witness was again to cause great harm to Stephen. Stephen did not want to change the law and customs YHWH gave to Moses. Rather he wanted to ensure they were being upheld the way YHWH intended. This would interfere with the money the Pharisees were making, doing things they were not supposed to be doing in the Temple.

Matthew 21: 12-13

Then Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. And He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ”

The Pharisees were also adding so much to the Law of YHWH that it was impossible to keep it, and had become burdensome. This was not what YHWH intended. When Stephen was preaching against this, it made the Pharisees look bad and even worse, wrong. Because nobody wants to be wrong, even more so in the field you’re an expert in, these people took it upon themselves to try to get rid of Stephen, the one making them look bad. In doing this, they chose to commit the sin of bearing false witness against their neighbor in order to continue to be satisfied with themselves and the methods of twisting the words of YHWH among the people of YHWH.

Proverbs 1:32

"Sin and self-satisfaction bring destruction and death to stupid fools"

The ultimate purpose of the ninth command is to show us that YHWH loves us. He gives us these laws in order to protect us from ourselves. One sin seems to always lead to another, and another. When ultimately, if we just treated others the way we want others to treat us, we would not be sinning and we would all be much happier in our daily lives. But sin, it is what we are drawn to. We all deal with the craving of satisfying the desires of the flesh. However, sin always ultimately brings death. This could be the death of a marriage, the death of a friendship, the death of a career, the death of freedom, or even the actual death of a life.

James 1: 14-15

But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

Bringing false accusations against your neighbor is no different. Lying about someone with the intent to cause them harm in some way is a sin and YHWH loves us too much to let us do that to each other.