Q: "The question that Isaiah asks 'who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord ' (Is.40:13) puts the finger on the holiness of God. We shall take the Wisdom part alone. Wisdom declares, "The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way" (Pr.8:22). But how does it connect with Eve, the mother of all living?"
A:
In the everlasting covenant dominion over all living was not intended on man alone. " It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him." (Ge.2:18). Eve as an helpmeet was undertaken as a remedy. On one hand we have man created after our image. That explains male and female in the make of man. The living soul made him wise to name all His creation including Eve. Eve however has yet another function 'after our likeness.' She is after Wisdom as the mother of all living.
What does a good mother do over her charge blessed by God? It requires more than wisdom but the virtue of running her household well. " She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness./ Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her./Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." (Pr.31:27-29). The virtue sets her as the Law of the Spirit so both wisdom and power are ever held in balance. In our times where Christians have not spared holiness of God from gender issue we know how much perverse have churches become.
"Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors./ For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord./ But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death."(Pr.8:34-36) Eve is after the likeness of the Law of the Spirit, " I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was." In short the Word which was God and with God is the mother of Living. Isn't silly to ask if God has a gender?
The Bible mentions the Millennium in Revelation 20:4, which describes a thousand-year period that begins after Jesus' Second Coming. The Millennium is also known as the "thousand-year reign of Christ" or the "millennial kingdom".
Q: The Spirit has designated Eve as the mother of all living. If she is so, how is that the woman clothed with the Sun in the vision is identified and taught by churches as Israel?"
A: In order to illustrate what the children of God are up against in the present times we shall bring St Paul's quote:" But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all."(Gal.4:22-26). The Spirit used St Paul to interpret the spiritual significance of this verse,"And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living." (Ge.3:20). This is what comparing the spiritual with spiritual would mean. "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God./Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual."(1 Co.2:12-13). The woman in the wilderness in the vision of John is about sons of Adam as distinct from those who are led by the Spirit. in v.14 we read"But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." Does anyone think a false teacher with one eye on the filthy lucre is interested in teaching wholesome doctrine.
As against Wisdom who built the house with seven pillars we have strange woman often presented in the Wisdom literature."Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well." Our very soul presents Jerusalem which is free, so slake your thirst from your own wells than from hell. "For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:/But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword./Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell."(Pr.5:3-5) What has miry clay drawn iron, in the King's dream? Zero and it shows.Dan.2:43
The great catch of fish story appears to have a very positive message, but does it? Sunday school classes seem to teach that Simon's great catch of fish was a miracle given by Jesus to show how Jesus has special powers that he, in this instance, is using to convince a number of would-be disciples to follow him. It is often plays into the prosperity doctrine that belief in Jesus will bring us a great catch of (fill in the blank). And this story of Jesus would seem to support that message. However, I do not believe that is a proper interpretation at all.
At the beginning of the chapter we see a scene of Simon fixing his nets, tired, and fishless. Jesus is not far away, preaching to the multitudes but yet Simon does not seem interested. Jesus singles Simon out and asks him to sail off into the deep waters and to throw his net out again. Simon agrees, reluctantly, but does it anyway which may be one of the few high points of this story. He has enough faith in this unknown rabbi to at least humor him. Perhaps it was the persuasion of the other disciples that convinced him, but regardless, he consented.
Things went downhill from there. While fishing in the deep (not the shallows) Jesus gave him more of his idol than he could handle. The fish broke his nets and their weight began to sink the boat. Simon likely realized that most of the fish would rot at the dock. In his panic, he asked Jesus to leave him. A reluctant Simon took a chance on this rabbi and now is losing his livelihood and possibly his life. In his desperation, Simon pleads with Jesus for his physical salvation by addressing his sinful spiritual depravity.
We know that the disciples were afraid because after arriving back on land, Jesus said, "Fear not". We end this story with the disciples giving up their lives for Jesus. Why? A lot happened here. Simon may be now boatless, his entire livelihood is gone. What are his options?
Salvation is NOT found in a religion or good works, but in a Person... The LORD JESUS CHRIST!
John 11:25, "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live."
John 14:6, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
John 6:40, "And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day."
Mark 1:15, "And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel."
You'd never hear it in the news; but on average, over 200,000 people die every day in this world. Do the math. There's an estimated 6 billion people in the world. If the average person lives to be 70-years old, that means 6 billion people will all die within the next 70-years (on average). If we divide 6 billion by 70, and then divide that result again by 365 days in a year, we get 234,834 people dying every single day. Of course, on some days more people die, and on others less. My point is that 6,000,000,000 people living today will all be dead within 150 years from today. It's either Heaven or Hellfire.
How tragic that the average Christian today has been choked by the cares and riches of this carnal world... "And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection" ( Luke 8:14). Oh, how the tears will flow in Heaven, from the eyes of believers who lived for the pleasures of this temporal life, who selfishly did their own thing, who worked all the overtime they could get; but hardly ever, if ever, told lost souls how to be saved through Jesus Christ.
Souls are dying, brother, do you care? Souls are dying, sister, do you care?
Q: The second rider was given a sword 'to take peace from the earth'? (Re.6:4) What serves the purpose of a pair of balances that the rider on the black horse carried?
A: The power was given from heaven and the word of God is clear."A false balance is abomination to theLord:" Further down the word of God assures, "The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them." (Pr.11:1, 3) God and mammon address the heart of man. If one honours God, he shall observe the two commandments of Jesus Christ. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind./This is the first and great commandment./And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself./On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."(Matt.22:37-40). Hypocrisy of white sepulchres is where heart tries to serve both God and mammon. The many wars on the earth create artificial scarcity and those who benefit shall have to face the Word of God. "And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God."(Re.19:12). In the inaugural vision of Jesus Christ, "And his eyes were as a flame of fire;/And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace;"(1:14-15)
In mid-air Jesus Christ is shown in his wrath. "And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God./And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written,King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords." (19:15-16) Devil has his angels as Christ has his cloud of witnesses. Here also in mid-air two camps shall fight it out.
Who can say in good conscience that he loves his neighbour if he were to price-gouge or scalp him in his dire necessity?
Thanks again for your thoughtful reply! I really appreciate the depth of your insights and your commitment to finding the Truth.
1. Earth's Age:
I totally get your skepticism about both the 6,000-year and 4.54 billion-year views. Science uses methods like radiometric dating to estimate the Earth's age, but it's always evolving. On the other hand, religious interpretations vary, with some seeing the creation story as symbolic. I think science explains "how" things work, while religion covers the "why."
2. Isaiah 40:21-22 - The Circle of the Earth:
You mentioned Isaiah saying God "sits upon the circle of the earth." Whether that's literal or poetic, the key takeaway for me is that God's perspective is way bigger than ours-like we're tiny grasshoppers in comparison.
3. John 17:4-5 - Jesus' Existence Before Creation:
Jesus' prayer about being glorified with the Father before the world began highlights His eternal nature. He was there from the start, making everything through Him ( John 1:3). It's a powerful reminder of His divine role in creation.
4. John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God:
This verse points to Jesus as the way we understand God. Even though no one has seen God, Jesus, who is one with the Father, makes Him known to us. It shows how Jesus bridges the gap between us and the divine.
5. The Search for Truth:
I agree with you that Truth is the most important thing. When Pilate asked "What is truth?" ( John 18:38), Jesus answered it in John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life." For me, that's the ultimate truth-everything else helps us get closer to understanding that.
Thanks again for the great discussion! I look forward to hearing more of your thoughts.
Q: "The woman has a place prepared for her" (12:6) while in v.14 the two wings of a great eagle are given to find her place, of her own choosing obviously. For what purpose?"
A: We shall find from earlier instances so the actions are consistent and true; secondly from the event leading to. Lastly the divine Will as expressed.
in the vision of Daniel(12:5-8) the River Ulai is set within his visual frame so Daniel is a spectator as well as a player, standing on this side of the vision. The man clothed in linen with his gesture"he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, " indicates he represents heaven." The river is the river of time, and times ("that it shall be for a time, times, and an half") are already decreed. Now we have a second instance in Ge.ch.32 where Jacob is in a crisis. It shall lead to what is referred as the testimony of Jacob. In his prayer "for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands."(Ge.32:10) explains the meaning Mahanaim. Again a river separating two bands. Literally as well as a heavenly pointer to what was to come. Fearful of the safety of himself and his family he sent them over while he is alone. It is decision time. Earlier the angels of God simply passed the message from the throne. This division set by the river of time shows the choice: God or mammon? Later comes his encounter with the angel. He shall come out from there as one having no more confidence in his flesh In short, across the river of time on one camp we have God and on the other Esau and his four hundred men. By the same token those who shall be led by God to the place prepared for them and it is called Zion.("For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation,"-Ps.132:13)"Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice."(Ps.50:5) The second band find their own level which is the earth. It is a rubble, outer darkness.
By all means you agree or disagree to what I believe as true and have here set forth (consistently supported with passages from scriptures). So let us leave at that. I believe by light of the Spirit there is a pattern to which everything else merge and to express the truth I do not care for my age and health but by God's grace I am renewed daily. I cannot be false to the revelation which is solely for the glory of God. Amen.
May I disagree with your interpretation of the woman in Rev 12?
Is is about Israel? Definitely yes. Is it about the left out christians? Well, personally I do not think so.
In Rev 12:2, the woman "being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered." or the people she represents are now starting to know Jesus, they didn't know Him before. And eventually she " brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.", the child being Jesus. They now believe in Jesus. Being in pregnacy may show that that will not be something that will happen over night. It will take sometime and during that time God will not leave them unprotected.
The left out christians, the 5 foolish virgins in the parable, know Christ, they are believers, have been baptised in the Spirit and now have to go through the tribulation to keep their salvation.
In Rev 12, the woman is brought in the wilderness by God to be protected so that satan/dragon can not kill her chid, take away their faith in Jesus.
The left out christians will not be protected by God this time, they had their opportunity to escape all that by participating in the rapture but they took no advantage of it. Their light, their sanctification was not adequate to get them in the rapture which means that they were having sins in their life. Now they have to stand firm in their choice and go through the knife to be saved. There is no other way for them. Rev gives us a glimpse in heaven on them, they are the souls in Rev 7:9-17 and Rev 6:9-11.
It is not the same with Israel who now under the great tribulation will turn to Jesus. They had not any chance to go with the rapture. The round numbers 12X12=144 may show that the entire Israel will believe and that agrees with what Paul says in Rom 11:25-27. Why does God stamp only those 144 th? Because the rest, the left out christians have been already stamped before the rapture.
Somebody is hacking this site. My record shows 1285 comments and 19018 amens. This is about 15 amens per comment for all my comments since the begining. Obviously it can't be so.
Q: What does the verse12 in the vision of John signify? The great eagle refers to the Lord Almighty is it not? If so why the voice from heaven, cry,"Woe to ye?"
A: Yes and No. Let us put the whole verse ,which is exclaimed from heaven."Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time." How did the devil come down to you'? We read of "mighty men which were of old, men of renown," (Ge.6:2,4) and the mingled people mentioned in Ezra 9:2 began from here. The two camps of angels that Jacob saw at Mahanaim, refer to angels, cloud of witnesses as well as fallen angels that corrupted the earth. They are like two wings of an eagle. In our times also we see that Israel is helped by the spirit of disobedience working in the world. So the word of God says, "woe to ye" Celebrity culture did not pop up out of nowhere. What makes Elon Musk rant? Devil knows he has but a short time. The place chosen for the woman in wilderness is not from God. "And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.(v.14) The holocaust under the Nazi regime is part of the line,"he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child."(v.13)
The two wings the great eagle that refers to v.6 is of God. They are grace and truth which establishes the other camp of angels that Jacob beheld. "And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him./And when Jacob saw them, he said, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim." (Ge.32:1-2) The place name in Hebrew means two camps or two companies.
Q: Do the remnant of her seed refer to the nation of Israel or to left-out church?
A: Both. In the vision the woman after dislodged from her preeminent position is helped on the earth and we have two distinct narratives. This verse is a transition point before the beast and the great tribulation are introduced. The last verse in this chapter says, "the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ."This discounts the nation of Israel per se. In order to understand we need to set them in context of the sealing 144,000 in Ch.7. They are Christians but left out from the main event, rapture so we shall say these are the mingled people nevertheless redeemed by their stepping in the breach even as Seth did. As Jesus says in the Parable, "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?"(Matt.20:15-16) The same quality of his Son is made manifest in the many numbers of martyrs. The tag 144 (12x12) refers to the gospel of Christ. (144x1000). They have a quality that they are redeemed from the earth.(Re.14:3)
"And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood."(v.15) Behemoth "(he) is the chief of the ways of God) belongs to the earth,"Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth."( Job 40:23,19). By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent." This may refer to crocodile or Rehab or behemoth. "The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil." (Pr.16:4)
Our GOD has not forgotten us. Let us stand fast in HIS promises and our past blessings. The current situation before us must drive us to the LORD JESUS CHRIST on our faces daily. May we not lose heart in HIM.
Let us be specific in our prayers regarding abortion, the peace in Jerusalem, harming the children, reading His word and acting on it. Our leadership to find CHRIST as their SAVIOR. The LORD to direct us in our prayers.
A bit of information about the grk in John 21. About "phileo" and "agapao" both meaning "to love" in anc grk.
Firstly Jesus was not talking to Peter in greek but in Hebrew. Is there such a distinction in the Hebrew language too? Personally I don't know.
John in his gospel, John 21:2, is using "egapa" (past tense, 3rd third person), describing Jesus who loved John.
In v 15 & 16 Jesus asks Peter if he loves Him ("agapas me?", do you love me?, question, third person). Peter answers that he loves Him ("philo se", I love you, first person)
In v 16 Jesus asks Peter again if he loves him (question and answer both use the verb "philao")
So it seems that at that time both verbs had the same meaning, for "to love".
Going back in time the verb "phileo" is older than "agapao". The latter started to be in common use sometime during the 3rd century BC, although it can be found in Homer's Iliad (8th century BC). By the time of Jesus both verbs were in use for the same thing, it is obvious in John 21. Later on, "phileo" had been abandoned for "to love"
Also, philia=friendship, philos=friend, philo/philao=also means "to kiss" (in both anc and mod grk), phili=kiss
agape=love, agapao/agapo=to love (for all kinds of love), eros/erotas=in love
I agree with you. "There's a similarity between the description in Revelation 12 and the description that Joseph gave of his father Jacob (Israel) and his mother and their children in ( Genesis 37:9-11).
The twelve stars refer to the twelve tribes of Israel. So the woman in Revelation 12 is Israel.
Verse 5 says that the woman's child was "a male child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her child was caught up to God and to His throne." Clearly, this is describing Jesus.
I have been blessed and continue to be blessed in the name of my SAVIOR. Though I have not been perfect, my LORD JESUS CHRIST is always perfect and faithful to His promises.
GOD to shine His face on all who have believed and trusted in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Bless our nation, FATHER! For without You we are nothing. John 17
Do you not think it possible that the sun and moon and twelve stars could be connected to Joseph's dream ?
Also , I know someone who speaks very convincingly on the idea that in Revelation they represent flags , the twelve stars are part of the European Union flag , muslim countries flags all have a crescent moon on them and Japan's flag is a sun . I don't hold with this interpretation myself but he makes a good arguement for it .
Just presenting a couple of different prospectives for discussion purposes , hope you don't mind that . Always read through your messages and appreciate them .
Firstly , here are some scriptures that might help you : Galatians chapter 3 verses 26-28 .
Proverbs chapter 1 verse 20 , do you understand metaphor ? If not , look it up and try to understand it . Proverbs is poetry , poetry uses a lot of metaphor . Proverbs chapter 4 verses 5-9 . For the sake of poetry , many things that are neither male or female , are referred to as such . Had it occured to you that the son could be referring to Jesus , the Son of God ?
The Bible is full of metaphor , there's plenty of literalism in there too . Sometime things in the Bible can be literal and metaphorical at the same time . The more you read it the more familiar you will become with these concepts . Yes , it can be confusing at first , but don't let that put you off .
4 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.
5 Sing unto the LORD with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm.
6 With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.
Thank You LORD JESUS CHRIST for the grace and mercies that are new every morning! May we, who claim and worship You, walk in the same manner that will glorify You because You so richly deserve it.
GOD to shine His face on all the brethren that we remember to give ourselves as living sacrifices daily, "...holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
11 Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.
Praise His holy and precious name. I will choose to worship my SAVIOR in truth and in spirit. FATHER, bless our nation and our leaders with the desire to call on You, and learn of You. LORD JESUS CHRIST shine Your face on us and teach us to be "peculiar people" zealous of good works.
Q: "It is obvious the Spirit served the vision of John in Ch.12 as a counterpoint to the inaugural vision of Jesus Christ holding seven stars in his right hand. It evokes the vision of Daniel all the terror of judgement which is set in the books already opened. Are they all alike and as interchangeable?"
A: The Ancient of Days is the Law of the Spirit figuratively expressed and also Jesus Christ the Word become flesh. In his majesty with seven stars in his right hand poses the question,"Yea, before the daywasIamhe; andthere isnone that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?" (Is.43:13). The stars are the churches. Seven expresses perfection where life and the Law of the Spirit merge. The Dragon has seven heads and seven crowns but the ten horns sets his judgment at time appointed. So whosoever enters six days in the everlasting covenant but do not enter the seventh day (Ge.2:1) he is accrsed as the beast who is qualified as the son of perdition. He has also as many horns."having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy."(13:1) The reason is simple. in refusing the Law of the Spirit he has become the son of Satan. It is thus the Woman loses her position and whatever name sons of Adam may have that does not restore former glory. From outer darkness the saved nation may move up as sons of God are caught up to the throne. The earth is condemned for fire notwithstanding. The volume of the holy city of God does not recognise their former names. The new earth means that everyone shall have accordingly a new name "To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it."(Re.2:17) It explains "the the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."(Dan.12:3)
Q:"For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven." Where do we see the Gospel of God in working while we follow the woman displaced from her position. Or the vision of John sets the will of God in terms of Jesus Christ, in mid-air the earth and in lower parts?"
A: We saw in Ch.6 with the breaking of the first four seals the riders setting out each after the path appointed by God so the rider on the white horse ses forth to conquer and conquering. In Ch.12 "And there was war in heaven:" (vv.7-8) As a result there are fallen angels. Angels "which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day." Re.12:9. The angels in v.9 are part of the corruption of mingled people that shall leave its taint till that great day. In this context we shall look up the significance of 120 days in Ge.6:3. Gospel is set in terms of "After our likeness" so 12x10 is not as many numbers but those who shall find their way into 144,000 in Re.14:1. Because God chose them. They turned around their own lives about the Law of the Spirit which refers to Ps.119:89
One point to remember what we are talking about resurrection having their own order does not apply here since the vision is the will of God all mapped out in entirety. For this reason Jesus shall see,"And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven."( Luke 10:18) The woman preserved in the wilderness carries number of days which is Gospel based. " And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."The tag of earthly ministry has its own significance (v.6) as "where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time,"(v.14)
Lastly Noah is set "after our likeness' So the volume of the Man is set in terms the ark as the holy city of God has is volume for each saint. (Re.21:16-17)
Q: "What is the significance of the stars, the moon or the sun in the vision of Ch.12 if the woman is not the chosen one?"
A: First of all the stars are part of the ensemble the the Gospel of God signifies. "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.""(Dan.12:3). They denote the cloud of witnesses, and it is Person specific. Son as the soul of God witnesses, whch is what our inner man signifies in us. This being the case what is the significance of God making man a living soul? The gospel of God is preached and it is the very breath of God. All it requires to open your ear of faith. St Paul explains the process. "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God./But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world."(Ro.10:17-18). The number Twelve is expressed in terms of the Son. The command number Three and Gospel of God is consistent throughout, which gives us 12=3x4. This is the basis for the four and twenty elders arranged about the throne of heaven. They represent the heaven earth and the lower parts, (3x8).
Now we shall consider the rest of the regalia that made woman 'clothed with the sun'. The woman was called to occupy a position so when the Spirit speaks,"And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed."(Ge.2:25) glory of God was her covering. It is what the Spirit intends with the vision. It is for our spiritual instruction. Power and Wisdom are expressed in glory but with the fall of man the Gospel did not work well in her case. Her loss of position is a commentary on Re.12:4. "And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth". Sons of Adam listened to heresies peddled by false teachers. They serve as the tail of the crooked serpent. (Is.9:15). Their works shall show up in heaven.
I'll be traveling back home from vacation on Monday, so I hope to be able to spend more time with these studies once I get back home. I have about a three-day drive ahead of me and should be home Wednesday. I'm glad you're enjoying the studies.
The passage in John reminds me of Matthew 12:48-50.
"But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Q: "The question that Isaiah asks 'who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord ' (Is.40:13) puts the finger on the holiness of God. We shall take the Wisdom part alone. Wisdom declares, "The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way" (Pr.8:22). But how does it connect with Eve, the mother of all living?"
A:
In the everlasting covenant dominion over all living was not intended on man alone. " It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him." (Ge.2:18). Eve as an helpmeet was undertaken as a remedy. On one hand we have man created after our image. That explains male and female in the make of man. The living soul made him wise to name all His creation including Eve. Eve however has yet another function 'after our likeness.' She is after Wisdom as the mother of all living.
What does a good mother do over her charge blessed by God? It requires more than wisdom but the virtue of running her household well. " She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness./ Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her./Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all." (Pr.31:27-29). The virtue sets her as the Law of the Spirit so both wisdom and power are ever held in balance. In our times where Christians have not spared holiness of God from gender issue we know how much perverse have churches become.
"Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors./ For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord./ But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death."(Pr.8:34-36) Eve is after the likeness of the Law of the Spirit, " I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was." In short the Word which was God and with God is the mother of Living. Isn't silly to ask if God has a gender?
The Bible mentions the Millennium in Revelation 20:4, which describes a thousand-year period that begins after Jesus' Second Coming. The Millennium is also known as the "thousand-year reign of Christ" or the "millennial kingdom".
COME LORD JESUS COME
30 He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"
31 They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved-you and your household."
32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house.
33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized.
COME LORD JESUS
Q: The Spirit has designated Eve as the mother of all living. If she is so, how is that the woman clothed with the Sun in the vision is identified and taught by churches as Israel?"
A: In order to illustrate what the children of God are up against in the present times we shall bring St Paul's quote:" But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all."(Gal.4:22-26). The Spirit used St Paul to interpret the spiritual significance of this verse,"And Adam called his wife's name Eve; because she was the mother of all living." (Ge.3:20). This is what comparing the spiritual with spiritual would mean. "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God./Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual."(1 Co.2:12-13). The woman in the wilderness in the vision of John is about sons of Adam as distinct from those who are led by the Spirit. in v.14 we read"But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." Does anyone think a false teacher with one eye on the filthy lucre is interested in teaching wholesome doctrine.
As against Wisdom who built the house with seven pillars we have strange woman often presented in the Wisdom literature."Drink waters out of thine own cistern, and running waters out of thine own well." Our very soul presents Jerusalem which is free, so slake your thirst from your own wells than from hell. "For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:/But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword./Her feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell."(Pr.5:3-5) What has miry clay drawn iron, in the King's dream? Zero and it shows.Dan.2:43
The great catch of fish story appears to have a very positive message, but does it? Sunday school classes seem to teach that Simon's great catch of fish was a miracle given by Jesus to show how Jesus has special powers that he, in this instance, is using to convince a number of would-be disciples to follow him. It is often plays into the prosperity doctrine that belief in Jesus will bring us a great catch of (fill in the blank). And this story of Jesus would seem to support that message. However, I do not believe that is a proper interpretation at all.
At the beginning of the chapter we see a scene of Simon fixing his nets, tired, and fishless. Jesus is not far away, preaching to the multitudes but yet Simon does not seem interested. Jesus singles Simon out and asks him to sail off into the deep waters and to throw his net out again. Simon agrees, reluctantly, but does it anyway which may be one of the few high points of this story. He has enough faith in this unknown rabbi to at least humor him. Perhaps it was the persuasion of the other disciples that convinced him, but regardless, he consented.
Things went downhill from there. While fishing in the deep (not the shallows) Jesus gave him more of his idol than he could handle. The fish broke his nets and their weight began to sink the boat. Simon likely realized that most of the fish would rot at the dock. In his panic, he asked Jesus to leave him. A reluctant Simon took a chance on this rabbi and now is losing his livelihood and possibly his life. In his desperation, Simon pleads with Jesus for his physical salvation by addressing his sinful spiritual depravity.
We know that the disciples were afraid because after arriving back on land, Jesus said, "Fear not". We end this story with the disciples giving up their lives for Jesus. Why? A lot happened here. Simon may be now boatless, his entire livelihood is gone. What are his options?
come lord jesus
Salvation is NOT found in a religion or good works, but in a Person... The LORD JESUS CHRIST!
John 11:25, "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live."
John 14:6, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."
John 6:40, "And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day."
Mark 1:15, "And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel."
BY: DR, JOHN R. RICE
COME LORD JESUS
How tragic that the average Christian today has been choked by the cares and riches of this carnal world... "And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection" ( Luke 8:14). Oh, how the tears will flow in Heaven, from the eyes of believers who lived for the pleasures of this temporal life, who selfishly did their own thing, who worked all the overtime they could get; but hardly ever, if ever, told lost souls how to be saved through Jesus Christ.
Souls are dying, brother, do you care? Souls are dying, sister, do you care?
BY: DR. JOHN R. RICE
COME LORD JESUS
Q: The second rider was given a sword 'to take peace from the earth'? (Re.6:4) What serves the purpose of a pair of balances that the rider on the black horse carried?
A: The power was given from heaven and the word of God is clear."A false balance is abomination to theLord:" Further down the word of God assures, "The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them." (Pr.11:1, 3) God and mammon address the heart of man. If one honours God, he shall observe the two commandments of Jesus Christ. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind./This is the first and great commandment./And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself./On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."(Matt.22:37-40). Hypocrisy of white sepulchres is where heart tries to serve both God and mammon. The many wars on the earth create artificial scarcity and those who benefit shall have to face the Word of God. "And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God."(Re.19:12). In the inaugural vision of Jesus Christ, "And his eyes were as a flame of fire;/And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace;"(1:14-15)
In mid-air Jesus Christ is shown in his wrath. "And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God./And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written,King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords." (19:15-16) Devil has his angels as Christ has his cloud of witnesses. Here also in mid-air two camps shall fight it out.
Who can say in good conscience that he loves his neighbour if he were to price-gouge or scalp him in his dire necessity?
Thanks again for your thoughtful reply! I really appreciate the depth of your insights and your commitment to finding the Truth.
1. Earth's Age:
I totally get your skepticism about both the 6,000-year and 4.54 billion-year views. Science uses methods like radiometric dating to estimate the Earth's age, but it's always evolving. On the other hand, religious interpretations vary, with some seeing the creation story as symbolic. I think science explains "how" things work, while religion covers the "why."
2. Isaiah 40:21-22 - The Circle of the Earth:
You mentioned Isaiah saying God "sits upon the circle of the earth." Whether that's literal or poetic, the key takeaway for me is that God's perspective is way bigger than ours-like we're tiny grasshoppers in comparison.
3. John 17:4-5 - Jesus' Existence Before Creation:
Jesus' prayer about being glorified with the Father before the world began highlights His eternal nature. He was there from the start, making everything through Him ( John 1:3). It's a powerful reminder of His divine role in creation.
4. John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God:
This verse points to Jesus as the way we understand God. Even though no one has seen God, Jesus, who is one with the Father, makes Him known to us. It shows how Jesus bridges the gap between us and the divine.
5. The Search for Truth:
I agree with you that Truth is the most important thing. When Pilate asked "What is truth?" ( John 18:38), Jesus answered it in John 14:6: "I am the way, the truth, and the life." For me, that's the ultimate truth-everything else helps us get closer to understanding that.
Thanks again for the great discussion! I look forward to hearing more of your thoughts.
Q: "The woman has a place prepared for her" (12:6) while in v.14 the two wings of a great eagle are given to find her place, of her own choosing obviously. For what purpose?"
A: We shall find from earlier instances so the actions are consistent and true; secondly from the event leading to. Lastly the divine Will as expressed.
in the vision of Daniel(12:5-8) the River Ulai is set within his visual frame so Daniel is a spectator as well as a player, standing on this side of the vision. The man clothed in linen with his gesture"he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, " indicates he represents heaven." The river is the river of time, and times ("that it shall be for a time, times, and an half") are already decreed. Now we have a second instance in Ge.ch.32 where Jacob is in a crisis. It shall lead to what is referred as the testimony of Jacob. In his prayer "for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands."(Ge.32:10) explains the meaning Mahanaim. Again a river separating two bands. Literally as well as a heavenly pointer to what was to come. Fearful of the safety of himself and his family he sent them over while he is alone. It is decision time. Earlier the angels of God simply passed the message from the throne. This division set by the river of time shows the choice: God or mammon? Later comes his encounter with the angel. He shall come out from there as one having no more confidence in his flesh In short, across the river of time on one camp we have God and on the other Esau and his four hundred men. By the same token those who shall be led by God to the place prepared for them and it is called Zion.("For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation,"-Ps.132:13)"Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice."(Ps.50:5) The second band find their own level which is the earth. It is a rubble, outer darkness.
By all means you agree or disagree to what I believe as true and have here set forth (consistently supported with passages from scriptures). So let us leave at that. I believe by light of the Spirit there is a pattern to which everything else merge and to express the truth I do not care for my age and health but by God's grace I am renewed daily. I cannot be false to the revelation which is solely for the glory of God. Amen.
May I disagree with your interpretation of the woman in Rev 12?
Is is about Israel? Definitely yes. Is it about the left out christians? Well, personally I do not think so.
In Rev 12:2, the woman "being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered." or the people she represents are now starting to know Jesus, they didn't know Him before. And eventually she " brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.", the child being Jesus. They now believe in Jesus. Being in pregnacy may show that that will not be something that will happen over night. It will take sometime and during that time God will not leave them unprotected.
The left out christians, the 5 foolish virgins in the parable, know Christ, they are believers, have been baptised in the Spirit and now have to go through the tribulation to keep their salvation.
In Rev 12, the woman is brought in the wilderness by God to be protected so that satan/dragon can not kill her chid, take away their faith in Jesus.
The left out christians will not be protected by God this time, they had their opportunity to escape all that by participating in the rapture but they took no advantage of it. Their light, their sanctification was not adequate to get them in the rapture which means that they were having sins in their life. Now they have to stand firm in their choice and go through the knife to be saved. There is no other way for them. Rev gives us a glimpse in heaven on them, they are the souls in Rev 7:9-17 and Rev 6:9-11.
It is not the same with Israel who now under the great tribulation will turn to Jesus. They had not any chance to go with the rapture. The round numbers 12X12=144 may show that the entire Israel will believe and that agrees with what Paul says in Rom 11:25-27. Why does God stamp only those 144 th? Because the rest, the left out christians have been already stamped before the rapture.
Somebody is hacking this site. My record shows 1285 comments and 19018 amens. This is about 15 amens per comment for all my comments since the begining. Obviously it can't be so.
Q: What does the verse12 in the vision of John signify? The great eagle refers to the Lord Almighty is it not? If so why the voice from heaven, cry,"Woe to ye?"
A: Yes and No. Let us put the whole verse ,which is exclaimed from heaven."Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time." How did the devil come down to you'? We read of "mighty men which were of old, men of renown," (Ge.6:2,4) and the mingled people mentioned in Ezra 9:2 began from here. The two camps of angels that Jacob saw at Mahanaim, refer to angels, cloud of witnesses as well as fallen angels that corrupted the earth. They are like two wings of an eagle. In our times also we see that Israel is helped by the spirit of disobedience working in the world. So the word of God says, "woe to ye" Celebrity culture did not pop up out of nowhere. What makes Elon Musk rant? Devil knows he has but a short time. The place chosen for the woman in wilderness is not from God. "And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.(v.14) The holocaust under the Nazi regime is part of the line,"he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child."(v.13)
The two wings the great eagle that refers to v.6 is of God. They are grace and truth which establishes the other camp of angels that Jacob beheld. "And Jacob went on his way, and the angels of God met him./And when Jacob saw them, he said, This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim." (Ge.32:1-2) The place name in Hebrew means two camps or two companies.
Q: Do the remnant of her seed refer to the nation of Israel or to left-out church?
A: Both. In the vision the woman after dislodged from her preeminent position is helped on the earth and we have two distinct narratives. This verse is a transition point before the beast and the great tribulation are introduced. The last verse in this chapter says, "the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ."This discounts the nation of Israel per se. In order to understand we need to set them in context of the sealing 144,000 in Ch.7. They are Christians but left out from the main event, rapture so we shall say these are the mingled people nevertheless redeemed by their stepping in the breach even as Seth did. As Jesus says in the Parable, "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?"(Matt.20:15-16) The same quality of his Son is made manifest in the many numbers of martyrs. The tag 144 (12x12) refers to the gospel of Christ. (144x1000). They have a quality that they are redeemed from the earth.(Re.14:3)
"And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood."(v.15) Behemoth "(he) is the chief of the ways of God) belongs to the earth,"Behold, he drinketh up a river, and hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his mouth."( Job 40:23,19). By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked serpent." This may refer to crocodile or Rehab or behemoth. "The Lord hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil." (Pr.16:4)
Let us be specific in our prayers regarding abortion, the peace in Jerusalem, harming the children, reading His word and acting on it. Our leadership to find CHRIST as their SAVIOR. The LORD to direct us in our prayers.
GOD to shine His face on us daily.
September 21, 2024
A bit of information about the grk in John 21. About "phileo" and "agapao" both meaning "to love" in anc grk.
Firstly Jesus was not talking to Peter in greek but in Hebrew. Is there such a distinction in the Hebrew language too? Personally I don't know.
John in his gospel, John 21:2, is using "egapa" (past tense, 3rd third person), describing Jesus who loved John.
In v 15 & 16 Jesus asks Peter if he loves Him ("agapas me?", do you love me?, question, third person). Peter answers that he loves Him ("philo se", I love you, first person)
In v 16 Jesus asks Peter again if he loves him (question and answer both use the verb "philao")
So it seems that at that time both verbs had the same meaning, for "to love".
Going back in time the verb "phileo" is older than "agapao". The latter started to be in common use sometime during the 3rd century BC, although it can be found in Homer's Iliad (8th century BC). By the time of Jesus both verbs were in use for the same thing, it is obvious in John 21. Later on, "phileo" had been abandoned for "to love"
Also, philia=friendship, philos=friend, philo/philao=also means "to kiss" (in both anc and mod grk), phili=kiss
agape=love, agapao/agapo=to love (for all kinds of love), eros/erotas=in love
I agree with you. "There's a similarity between the description in Revelation 12 and the description that Joseph gave of his father Jacob (Israel) and his mother and their children in ( Genesis 37:9-11).
The twelve stars refer to the twelve tribes of Israel. So the woman in Revelation 12 is Israel.
Verse 5 says that the woman's child was "a male child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her child was caught up to God and to His throne." Clearly, this is describing Jesus.
Thanks and God bless.
GOD to shine His face on all who have believed and trusted in the gospel of the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Bless our nation, FATHER! For without You we are nothing. John 17
September 21, 2024 Titus 2:11-14
god is good all the time
Also , I know someone who speaks very convincingly on the idea that in Revelation they represent flags , the twelve stars are part of the European Union flag , muslim countries flags all have a crescent moon on them and Japan's flag is a sun . I don't hold with this interpretation myself but he makes a good arguement for it .
Just presenting a couple of different prospectives for discussion purposes , hope you don't mind that . Always read through your messages and appreciate them .
Proverbs chapter 1 verse 20 , do you understand metaphor ? If not , look it up and try to understand it . Proverbs is poetry , poetry uses a lot of metaphor . Proverbs chapter 4 verses 5-9 . For the sake of poetry , many things that are neither male or female , are referred to as such . Had it occured to you that the son could be referring to Jesus , the Son of God ?
The Bible is full of metaphor , there's plenty of literalism in there too . Sometime things in the Bible can be literal and metaphorical at the same time . The more you read it the more familiar you will become with these concepts . Yes , it can be confusing at first , but don't let that put you off .
5 Sing unto the LORD with the harp; with the harp, and the voice of a psalm.
6 With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.
Thank You LORD JESUS CHRIST for the grace and mercies that are new every morning! May we, who claim and worship You, walk in the same manner that will glorify You because You so richly deserve it.
GOD to shine His face on all the brethren that we remember to give ourselves as living sacrifices daily, "...holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
GOD bless all on this platform!
September 21, 2024
September 21, 2024
12 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.
Praise His holy and precious name. I will choose to worship my SAVIOR in truth and in spirit. FATHER, bless our nation and our leaders with the desire to call on You, and learn of You. LORD JESUS CHRIST shine Your face on us and teach us to be "peculiar people" zealous of good works.
September 21, 2024
Q: "It is obvious the Spirit served the vision of John in Ch.12 as a counterpoint to the inaugural vision of Jesus Christ holding seven stars in his right hand. It evokes the vision of Daniel all the terror of judgement which is set in the books already opened. Are they all alike and as interchangeable?"
A: The Ancient of Days is the Law of the Spirit figuratively expressed and also Jesus Christ the Word become flesh. In his majesty with seven stars in his right hand poses the question,"Yea, before the daywasIamhe; andthere isnone that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?" (Is.43:13). The stars are the churches. Seven expresses perfection where life and the Law of the Spirit merge. The Dragon has seven heads and seven crowns but the ten horns sets his judgment at time appointed. So whosoever enters six days in the everlasting covenant but do not enter the seventh day (Ge.2:1) he is accrsed as the beast who is qualified as the son of perdition. He has also as many horns."having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy."(13:1) The reason is simple. in refusing the Law of the Spirit he has become the son of Satan. It is thus the Woman loses her position and whatever name sons of Adam may have that does not restore former glory. From outer darkness the saved nation may move up as sons of God are caught up to the throne. The earth is condemned for fire notwithstanding. The volume of the holy city of God does not recognise their former names. The new earth means that everyone shall have accordingly a new name "To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it."(Re.2:17) It explains "the the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."(Dan.12:3)
Q:"For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven." Where do we see the Gospel of God in working while we follow the woman displaced from her position. Or the vision of John sets the will of God in terms of Jesus Christ, in mid-air the earth and in lower parts?"
A: We saw in Ch.6 with the breaking of the first four seals the riders setting out each after the path appointed by God so the rider on the white horse ses forth to conquer and conquering. In Ch.12 "And there was war in heaven:" (vv.7-8) As a result there are fallen angels. Angels "which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day." Re.12:9. The angels in v.9 are part of the corruption of mingled people that shall leave its taint till that great day. In this context we shall look up the significance of 120 days in Ge.6:3. Gospel is set in terms of "After our likeness" so 12x10 is not as many numbers but those who shall find their way into 144,000 in Re.14:1. Because God chose them. They turned around their own lives about the Law of the Spirit which refers to Ps.119:89
One point to remember what we are talking about resurrection having their own order does not apply here since the vision is the will of God all mapped out in entirety. For this reason Jesus shall see,"And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven."( Luke 10:18) The woman preserved in the wilderness carries number of days which is Gospel based. " And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days."The tag of earthly ministry has its own significance (v.6) as "where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time,"(v.14)
Lastly Noah is set "after our likeness' So the volume of the Man is set in terms the ark as the holy city of God has is volume for each saint. (Re.21:16-17)
Q: "What is the significance of the stars, the moon or the sun in the vision of Ch.12 if the woman is not the chosen one?"
A: First of all the stars are part of the ensemble the the Gospel of God signifies. "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.""(Dan.12:3). They denote the cloud of witnesses, and it is Person specific. Son as the soul of God witnesses, whch is what our inner man signifies in us. This being the case what is the significance of God making man a living soul? The gospel of God is preached and it is the very breath of God. All it requires to open your ear of faith. St Paul explains the process. "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God./But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world."(Ro.10:17-18). The number Twelve is expressed in terms of the Son. The command number Three and Gospel of God is consistent throughout, which gives us 12=3x4. This is the basis for the four and twenty elders arranged about the throne of heaven. They represent the heaven earth and the lower parts, (3x8).
Now we shall consider the rest of the regalia that made woman 'clothed with the sun'. The woman was called to occupy a position so when the Spirit speaks,"And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed."(Ge.2:25) glory of God was her covering. It is what the Spirit intends with the vision. It is for our spiritual instruction. Power and Wisdom are expressed in glory but with the fall of man the Gospel did not work well in her case. Her loss of position is a commentary on Re.12:4. "And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth". Sons of Adam listened to heresies peddled by false teachers. They serve as the tail of the crooked serpent. (Is.9:15). Their works shall show up in heaven.
I'll be traveling back home from vacation on Monday, so I hope to be able to spend more time with these studies once I get back home. I have about a three-day drive ahead of me and should be home Wednesday. I'm glad you're enjoying the studies.
Blessing to you also!
Phileo Love.
The passage in John reminds me of Matthew 12:48-50.
"But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
Thanks and God bless.