I have been reading your conversation and I will have to go by David's view since Hebrews 4:2 says that the gospel was preached to us as well as the OT Israelites. This wording implies that the gospel is the same gospel, not two types of gospel.
We do not know all of what God told the OT saints (Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, the prophets) we know just what was recorded in Scripture. But if the Word in Hebrews says that those in the OT had the gospel preached to them, then I think we should believe that it is the one true gospel of Jesus our Savior and His work for our salvation.
Christ was the "Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." Rev 13:8
Hebrews 4:2,3 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
Hebrews 10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Romans 3:10,11 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.
Genesis 6:8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.
But those sacrifices could not bring cleansing of the heart & conscience, which only Christ's shed Blood could. They remained in limbo - God accepting their sacrifices, pleased to abide with them, yet looking ahead when His Own Sacrifice would bring full cleansing, new life, & a permanent rest for their souls.
The Gospel of 'Rest' that was promised to them, was not just of entering Canaan ( Deuteronomy 12:9-11; Joshua 22:43-45), but was spoken of a future Rest ( Hebrews 4:8,9; Isaiah 11:10 (both in the first & second comings of Jesus)). This was always God's Plan, even to include Gentiles in such blessing - and Jesus only could be the Sacrifice that would bring true & lasting rest for all. All the sacrifices pointed to Him & the temporary rest that Israel enjoyed (when they were faithful), could only be fully realized when Christ's Blood also applied to them, yet future. Present-day Israel is in turmoil (spiritually, physically, nationally), having rejected their Messiah. They will never have God's Rest whilst in this state. But when they see their Messiah coming in the clouds, come to Him in brokenness & repentance, having their hearts cleansed by His Blood not by sacrifices, then Hebrews 4:9 will be fully realized, "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God."
Thanks again David0921 for these Scriptures, & of course, I don't share in your understanding of them. I will look at the main one: Hebrews 4:1-3.
You understand this passage as referring to the Gospel that was delivered to us, that it was the same as they (OT Israel) also received. However, this passage is not talking about the Gospel of Salvation through a Redeemer, but about the Gospel that was ordained before the worlds were framed together - and that is, that God's Plan was for all (Jew & Gentile) to enter into HIS REST. And that is what the Gospel is: for us, we know that perfect rest (from our struggle with sin, of certain judgement for it, of being accepted by God & receiving His Peace) can only be attained through the Cross & looking unto it.
The Gospel that was 'preached as well unto them' contained nothing of Christ's Sacrifice. To force the word 'Gospel' in the OT to mean the same as in the NT, is to misapply the meaning & understanding of Scripture. When the Gospel came to us, we were dead in our sins & in desperate need of redemption & only through Christ's death we could have any hope. When the Gospel came to them, they were already the elect, chosen of God, to remain faithful to God, obeying His Commands, & observing the Sacrifices & associated laws. If they exercised faith & looked only unto God & none other, they would be saved; just as Abraham, Moses, & others were. Which also agrees with the translation of Enoch & Elijah, where these men were counted faithful & for God's Own purpose, were removed from the Earth. But then the question: 'weren't these also sinners, though being the Elect, needing cleansing; how could faith & sacrifice only save them?' Hebrews 9:13,14: these sacrifices only sanctified the people to the "purifying of the flesh"; God instituted this that they may be forgiven & He could dwell in the midst of them & be their constant Guide, providing them that temporary covering for their sin. Onto Page 2.
Chris (Hopefully this will post as it is a correction to a comment deleted from the Mod Queue)
Any understanding of the Salvation of OT Believers must take into account these verses.
Matthew 17:1-3 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold THERE APPEARED UNTO THEM MOSES AND ELIAS TALKING WITH HIM.
Genesis 5:24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; FOR GOD TOOK HIM.
2 Kings 2:11 And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and ELIJAH WENT UP BY A WHIRLWIND INTO HEAVEN.
These things could happen because the EFFICACY of Christ's Atonement, the payment for their sins, existed from the FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD, i.e. from CREATION. As we read in Rev 13:8 that Christ was THE LAMB SLAIN FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.
Additionally we read in Hebrews 4:1-3 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. FOR UNTO US WAS THE GOSPEL PREACHED, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM {OT Israel}: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: ALTHOUGH THE WORKS { Rev 13:8} WERE FINISHED FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.
And this is the reason that OT Believers could be and were BORN AGAIN just like NT Believers. And when they died physically they went to be with Christ in Heaven in their soul existence, exactly like NT Believers. And they did not go into the never never land of someplace called Hades for centuries.
One Gospel; One Salvation; One application of Salvation; One Destination upon physical death. For OT and NT Believers ALIKE.
In Truth, the day you are completely free from sin, is the day you meet your Savior ! 1 Pet 1:7-9
I can't tell you how Dan would answer that question,
but here's mine
It's not a work of our self-efforts in our own strengths or our own understanding, it following the Light of Christ in our hearts, the still small Voice of Conscience that convicts us of our wrong doings & directs us to do what is just, good & holy, Titus 2:11
Micah 6:8 , its the Treasure we have in these earthen vessels, enlightening us in the power of Holy Spirit, picking up the Cross & denying self, & causing us to will & do of His good pleasure, which works were finishes from the foundation of the world, Hebrews 4:3Acts 15:18 We enter into His works, coming to a place of rest from our own works
Then there some that are persuaded they don't have to do anything, but believe, without becoming a doer of the Word, thats more like being a demon, for they believes, but they do not obey.
Consider all that Scriptures, beginning with Abraham, Gen 18:19 by his obedience Abraham proved his faith & his love for God
John 15:10 he abided in God's love & received all that God had promise him, through his obedience to God's commands.
Today's Christianity says you can be a Christian without keeping His commandments, God loves you & His grace got you covered. This is a changing of the definition of Grace, which is defined in Scripture as Titus 2:12 Grace is the power of God to reveal our sins & to takes us out of them, not to encourage or pamper us in our sins.
Friends, God salvation is a free gift, but faith without works is dead. James 2:17-26 this is clearly seen & understood in the whole of Scriptures. Jesus Himself learn obedience by the things that He suffer, & became perfect, perfected our salvation, all for our sakes, that we may follow Him. John 14:31
What does the Word of GOD say? The Word is GOD, self-executable. By the way, GOD calleth those things which be not as though they were-understand? Romans 4:17 and Hebrews 4:3. Take a look.
In my vision, and I'm sure of this, the day of Christ's return is the day 1.335 - Daniel 12:12. GOD said: 12 Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days. Why GOD said that? Exactly 75 days after the END of the last week, week 70th Daniel 9:27, and 45 days after the END of the Abomination of Desolation.
The question is: How to know by the calendar what day the day 1335 will fall on? Impossible, for now. Anyway, get ready, because it's very close.
Right. Very soon there will be TWO DISTINCTS MAN Beasts operating or reigning in the Earth in this current time of Apocalypse, time of the END( 1Corinthians 15:24-28.Take a look.) Let us be ready to face them with the Sword, the Word of GOD- Hebrews 4:12-13KJV-. As you said, they are:
1 - the Beast of sea
2 - the Beast of the earth
1 - The very old and serial Gentilic MAN Beast of sea - Rev.13:1-10- , has seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy, and whose very ancient roots are described in the verse 2.
2 - The MAN Beast of the earth having two horns like a lamb, a false lamb, in fact a false and ruthless messiah, Rev.13:11-18 combined with John 5:43-47 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2-4 and 9-12. Terrible. Terrible.
Let us prepare to enter and face the final environment of the last week of the Devil's world, and the establishment of the FIFTH universal Devil's kingdom, the Antichrist's kingdom, and also in the middle of this last week the Abomination of Desolation- Daniel 9:27-, this satanic Kingdom is represented and described allegorically in the feet and ten toes of the statue of Nebuchadnezzar, part of iron and part of clay, according to Dan.2:41-45.Take a look.
In that fifth universal empire of the Devil, the universal empire of Antichrist, two satanic Beasts will be reigning on Earth, a Gentile Beast and a Jewish Beast, both represented literally in Rev.13, first as the Beast that rose out of the sea, rose from among the nations, from among the peoples, it rose precisely in Italy more or less 2.000 years ago still in the Roman Empire, and the second Beast, the Beast that will still rise from the Earth in this current time, precisely in Israel -Jerusalem- the holy city- this Beast will sit on his own throne as if he was God, claiming to be the messiah, actually an IMPOSTER, a false Christ,-Matt.24:23-, as JESUS warned us, and will exalt himself as if he were God, but he is MAN and not God.
I'm not sure if this is what you are asking or not, but the Bible pictures the Word of God as water in Ephesians 5:26. Also I agree that the Bible is signified as a sword and that God does this for a reason. He says that His word is the Sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17 and Hebrews 4:12. I think this is also found in Revelation 1:16. Out of Jesus's mouth is the Word of God so out of His mouth comes a sword in Revelation. I truly believe that it is symbolic. Also Jesus gives us the example of fighting the Devil with quoting the Word of God. The only offensive weapon. It is not a coincidence. God's word is a sword because it is not only used to be shared, but also used as the weapon against Satan, his demons, and his followers.
Jesus being the corner stone and the Apostles being the foundation signifies the beginning of a groundbreaking plan to erect a building and that building is the Church.
As I mentioned previously, the commission to carry the Gospel to the world came right after the resurrection, as shown in the Gospels " Luke 24:42-49 and Matthew 28:19-20."
I agree with you that the scripture says to the Jews first, and then the Gentiles,
However, I would suggest that the Gospel was preached to them before the cross as well as Abraham.
Hebrews 3:17-19 - Hebrews 4:1-6.
"But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?
And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?
So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. FOR UNTO US WAS THE GOSPEL PREACHED, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: BUT THE WORD PREACHED DID NOT PROFIT THEM, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH IN THEM THAT HEARD IT.
For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.
Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, AND THEY TO WHOM IT WAS FIRST PREACHED ENTERED NOT IN BECAUSE OF UNBELIEF:
Also;
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, PREACHED BEFORE THE GOSPEL UNTO ABRAHAM, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. Galatians 3:8.
Trusting relationships and prayers with individuals who are our "accountability partners" certainly is helpful. As stated before things meant to be in confidence should remain that way unless the safety of someone is in jeopardy. There are times when things are pretty evident; which can be shared with a small group but still not be discussed with others; we need to be wise and discerning in those matters.
When we observe sin such as anger; we are often responsible to confront our brother; if necessary. Offering prayer in that situation is usually better in an impromptu request; even if we can't meet up with them until later. We should desire others to be real; to open up about the real issues bothering them; as well as being free to express what the Spirit is leading us to pray about. Hebrews 4:12 talks about the "thoughts and intentions of the heart." In that sense; I believe prayer should at times be uncomfortable; exposing things we need to submit to the Spirit; breaking through spiritual strongholds; etc. Sadly; it seems 9 times out of 10 people want to have casual conversation about all their issues without committing it to prayer rather than the other way around. Maybe when people plan to meet even socially in church events prayer should be the introduction and concluding remarks.
As to prayer for our nation; revival is a common theme. I question WHY this is the case; risking whatever controversy that ensues. Even in true ones in the past the enemy often wreaks havoc; hence they tend to be rather brief; and there seems to be little regard for the risk of a false one and prayer against such things. It certainly begins with the believers ( 2 Chronicles 7:14) but of course we can't neglect the part of turning from our wicked ways. Man in general apart from the Spirit's prompting has NO DESIRE to be Holy; and hates God. Many will fall away in the last days; and anyone God draws will be saved.
1.Can you generate this height of Love on your own? No, the exhortation that Jesus gives us in these Scriptures creates a desire within us to please Him, which is a breaking up of the fallow ground of our hearts Hosea, 10:12 to the planting of this Seed, & as we are not a forgettful hearer of the word, but an exerciser of it, the Seed grows as God gives the increase according to our integrity & sincerity of heart towards Him. Hebrews 4:12,13
2.Is it not a fruit of the Spirit given once one IS saved? No, it to is an exercising of these virtues in the same manner describe above, Philippains 1:11, being filled 2 Cor 9:10 increasing; denoting a work in process, as we remain faithful, steadfast & true in His great work of regeneration within us.
When did Christ, eternal God Himself, the Lamb of God, complete the payment required for the sins of every True Believer, those whom God would save throughout time?
When was Christ, eternal God Himself, the "Son of God", eternal God Himself Begotten of the Father, eternal God Himself?
Is there any difference in God's Salvation of Old Testament Believers versus New Testament Believers?
How does what we read in Revelation 13:8 that Christ is "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" and Hebrews 4:4 "For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did REST the seventh day from ALL his works."influence our understanding about these questions?
My purpose in raising these questions is the Hope that God might cause us all to search the scriptures afresh regarding God's Judgment and Salvation plan for mankind, praying constantly that God Himself would open our understanding and lead us into truth.
Philippians 2:2-11 goes through a detailed synopsis of how Christ; a member of the infinite Godhead came to earth and humbled himself to live as a man and to die on a cross. We often focus on how Christ's intimacy with the Father was affected; with the peak of course being at the crucifixion ( Matt. 27:46). The reverse; no doubt would have been excruciating for God the Father as well. For Christ to die for His enemies is beyond our comprehension; but for the Father in His eternal plans to plan on crushing the Son ( Isaiah 53:10) is also beyond our understanding. Yet God was "pleased" to do this!
The victory was complete; when He said "it is finished" and gave up his spirit at death. ( John 19:30). Death could not overtake Him ( Acts 2:24-32).
Looking at the entire earthly existence of Christ we see how profoundly He humbled Himself as a servant. One who created the heavens and the earth chose to live with total abandon to the cause; He had no place to rest His head ( Matt. 8:20). No doubt there were transient lodgings as recorded in scripture; the only place where it mentioned Him sleeping was on the boat ( Mark 4:38). Often He was up before dawn praying; and before He chose the 12 Disciples He was up all night ( Luke 6:12). Being the Son of God of course He knew all things; but nonetheless prayer was a key factor indicating communion with God. In the case of Peter Jesus prayed against the Devil's schemes ( Luke 22:32); in that case He knew about Peter's eventual restoration and strengthening of His brothers before the denial at Christ's trial took place. Doubtless He also prayed similar ways for the others; and clearly in these passages He knew all would betray Him as the prophecies indicate ( Matt. 26:31 from prophecy in Zech. 13:7). He also demonstrated the ultimate care for His mother ( John 19:25-29); but always put God above men's desires ( Matt. 12:46-50).
Hebrews 4:15 allows Him to intercede ( Heb. 7:25).
I do not normally respond to you since your beliefs seem to be so contrary to what the Bible is teaching. You seem to believe that God the Holy Spirit is communicating directly with you in some articulated form, perhaps in a dream or a vision or a voice or a tongue, apart from the Bible. And that belief runs absolutely counter to what God very clearly declares in Rev 22:18, which is a very dangerous place to be and I would never want to be in that position.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
1 John 2:1-6 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
2 Peter 3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
Once the Bible was completed, God the Holy Spirit only communicates to mankind via the scriptures and He opens our understanding as we search the scriptures "comparing spiritual with spiritual". "Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God", the Bible.
The True Gospel is circumscribed by the Bible alone and in its entirety. And that is the only Gospel I want to be following.
3. The word of God the Bible is either it has happened, or it is happening, and it is for us set as an example for how we should live before the Lord our God. it is also very current and accurate. See Malach 3:16 and Jude 1:7. thus
it is written in Hebrews 4:12
12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
and in 2 timothy 3:16
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work
-And There are prophecy which will come to be fulfilled like the coming of the ant-Christ but remember there are many anti-Christ today.
as it is written in 1 John 2:18
Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour
4. anyone who turns away from sins makes himself a prey it is written in.
Isaiah 59:15
Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment.
-So the devil does not care for anyone who calls himself Christian but is not committed. But if anyone is committed and obeys Gods word and does all is written in the bible then Satan shifts all his attentions to them and hence the wiles of the devil. Therefore, put all the Armour of God not one but all. as it is written in Ephesians 6:11
11Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
The church beyond five senses: the spiritual realm (cont)
Continuing the thought of the invisible realm (see John 20:29); we begin to understand the promises of God's protection of His saints ( Psalm 91:11; Isaiah 52:12) through the angels; we see how to correctly "bind and loose" ( Matt. 16:19); how to align more closely to what Christ is interceding in our behalf in seeking His will ( Heb. 7:25); and of course see those in bondage loosed from Satan's grip ( Luke 4:18-19) taken from Isaiah 61:1.
Those who love Him keep His commandments ( John 14:21) and originally found in Deuteronomy 7:9. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10 but found many other places in scripture).
For a case study; let us examine 1 Corinthians 14:22-25 where we have tongues and prophecy as applying to unbelievers in one verse then switch to believers in the next verses. This means that evidence of the power of God needs to be present AND a clear message relatable to the sinner or saint present given. In reality there cannot be a supernatural manifestation of the Spirit WITHOUT a piercing of the soul ( Hebrews 4:12) that is of course accompanied by the Gospel as the rest of the verse indicates. It also shows how a church must be corrected as He chastises all His own (found further on in Hebrews 12 verse 6).
The fact that some spiritual activity is occuring isn't evidence that God is at work; it could be demons. The fact that this was still a place where His Spirit was at work was evident in the fact that Paul's severe discipline had results; and that right quick (as the Brits like to say). This is clear from chapter 7 of 2 Corinthians. As I started off this discourse; I mentioned the Ephesians. They were threatened with total removal of their candlestick in Revelation 2. Therefore; being dead would be worse than immature; even with all the correct doctrines and outer actions; ceremonies; etc.
Thanks for the provided summary on Israels failure to entering into the promise land.
I would like to share something based on your last statement.
( It is a very sad time for the people God had delivered from bondage. Though they were chosen as a people to receive great promises and benefits from being God's covenant people. They blew it royally at the time they were closest to entering in.)
When we look at Genesis 15:7-18 we learn that God covenant was unconditional, In fact Verse 18 shows us that God has already gave them the land.
vs 18) "In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, UNTO THY SEED HAVE I GIVEN THIS LAND, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:
They had to possess it by faith!
That's the lesson and example for all the world to see!
Also what's important to note is God's word is at stake. Moses makes mention of that later in scripture.
Israel couldn't enter in because of unbelief.
Hebrews ch's 3 and 4 hammers away at this.
But notice Hebrews 4:7-9. Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.
There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.
Thank you for sharing Hebrews 4:12. I do agree with you that the word of God is alive today, just as it was back then. But if I may answer your question "Without the Strongs Concordance then how would we know the Word of God is Alive today?"
Do we really need a Strong's Concordance to know that the word of God is alive today? Those words in Hebrews 4:12 were written sometime between 67 and 69 AD. They had no concordance. And even if they did, what language would their concordance be written in if what they had at the time was the Greek text? How would they have known that the word of God was alive back then?
Please know that I am not trying to be argumentative here. I am just trying to understand why we would need a Strong's Concordance to know that the word of God is alive today.
The almond blossoms looked like wood but they were gold, reminding us of Aaron's rod that budded. When Aaron's priestly prerogative was in question, the budding of his almond rod established it. The almond rod, a dead branch, was made to live and to bear fruit. Christ was established as the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. It did not make Him Son of God, for He was that from the eternal counsels of God. Resurrection only confirmed it. Aaron was the Godappointed high priest, and it was confirmed by resurrection in the dead almond rod. The resurrection of Christ, likewise, established His priesthood. Christ is our great High Priest because He became a man, partook of our nature, and "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" ( Hebrews 4:15). But the primary basis of His priesthood is His deity. The priest represented men before God. Christ is God who became a man, and it is now the God-man who represents man. The resurrection which declared Him to be the Son of God likewise declared His priesthood.
There were no measurements given for the lampstand of pure gold. That which speaks of His deity alone cannot be measured, for deity is beyond the computation of man. Neither can a tape measure be placed along that which speaks of God. Again, the priesthood of Christ, which is conditioned on the fact that He became a man, is made to rest on His deity. There is not recorded any incident in the life of Christ in the Gospels which does not instantly record His deity with every mention of His humanity, yet never confusing or fusing the two. In the shortest verse of the Bible, "Jesus wept" ( John 11:35), there is recorded a perfectly human incident in His life. It is a characteristic of humanity to weep; it is perfectly natural. But the tears were not dry upon His cheeks before He commanded, "Lazarus, come forth" ( John 11:43). And Lazarus came forth. That was perfectly divine - only Deity has the power over death.
Hebrews Chapter 4 speaks of the superiority of Jesus Christ to Joshua. But it also talks about entering into Gods rest. When you get down to Hebrews 4:10, it says "For he that is entered into His rest, has also ceased from his own works, just as God did from His."
So, the writer of Hebrews is going back to creation. He's saying if you surrender to Christ, you will be doing just what God did. You will cease from your own works (your own efforts), at your own salvation, and you will enter into God's rest.
Now here's how it works:
God took 6 days to create all things. And by the way, the Hebrew word Yom for day, it can be either 24-hour days, or it could be like our metaphor when we say, "the day in which we live," meaning the age in which we live. It is important to know that the 6 days were six 24-hour days, as mentioned to us in Exodus Chapter 20.
But we have a problem in the creation account. The Jews don't have a problem. We have a problem as Gentiles understanding the connection here. In 6 days, God created all things. And on the 7th day, He entered into His rest and finished His work.
The number 6 in the bible is the number of man. We know that from the book of Revelation. The number of man is 6, and the man of sin, his number will be 666, not six-hundred and sixty-six, but 6 three times, in contrast to the trinity of God. So, the number 6 represents man, and the number 7 in the scriptures represents completion or perfection. So, man falls short of perfection or completion, therefore he has fallen short, as Paul would say of the glory of God.
Now here's what the writer of Hebrews is trying to get across:
The writer is trying to tell us that God has provided for us salvation. That parallels His 6 days of creation, to the point where He comes to us on the 7th day of His creative works for our salvation, and He says "Enter in to your rest!"
Thank you dear brother Jesse. I fully concur with what you've shared here, on the use of the number 'seven'. As you wrote, it certainly declares a 'fullness or completeness/perfection', but I had not previously considered seriously the 'missing' "evening and the morning was the seventh day" phrase in the Bible.
I think you may have uncovered something precious here, which clearly supports the present sense that I have, that "the seventh day has never ended". We as believers do enjoy that ongoing Sabbath (spiritual) rest ( Hebrews 4:1-6), which was denied to Israel for their wilful state of unbelief & disobedience; & yet our struggles in this life can never find its end, with that complete & perfect rest promised, never coming into our possession while Satan remains loose. Only until the Prince of Peace comes again & the world renewed without any possibility of such a devastating occurrence as before, can all of creation bask in the Glory of God & in His Perfect Rest as He originally planned for us. We just have a taste of it now (the 'evening' of the seventh day), waiting for that promised fruit to come to full maturity (the 'morning'), completing that seventh day of true & complete rest. As you can see, you've expanded my meditations on this considerably, for which I'm very appreciative.
Not a problem at all, brother. This happens to me quite often when someone else's comment is posted while I'm in the process of typing mine out. Anyway, if both comments agree in substance, then the enquirer has further affirmation to his/her question.
You are correct, the church gathered for worship on Sunday since the time of the apostles. This is long before the RC Church emerged in the Holy Roman Empire.
Just to inform you that "Joshua" and "Jesus" is the same name in Hebrew. It is Yehoshua or Yashua. The first is used in the early chapters of the Old Testament whereas the second in the later when that name was simplified. It means " God is my salvation". The English transformed the first into Joshua and the second into Jesus. But it is the same name in 2 alternative forms. In the verse you mentioned that person is Joshua, not Jesus, this is obvious since Joshua gave them rest by being their leader when they entered and captured the land of promise.
As far as the Sabbath is concerned, apostle Paul in Colossians 2:16-17 asks christians to not let others judge them for not keeping things from the Old Testament, like Sabbath or other holly days. So it wasn't a Catholic invention, it was adopted as the formal day for christian congregation still from the very early time.
Hi Dana. You're referring to Hebrews 4:8: "For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day."
In the Greek language, 'Joshua, or Yehoshua' (from the Hebrew), is translated as 'Jesus, or Iesous'. And we find the translators making the same change in Acts 7:45. So, the KJV translators are correct in understanding this Hebrew to Greek change, though as you wrote, it can be misleading to those unfamiliar with the account or reading through those verses very quickly. We can see from Hebrews 4:8, that the writer is referring back to verse 5 ("And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest": Psalm 95:11), & even all the way back to Hebrews 4:1 when the subject of 'Rest' is brought up.
Even though most Bible translations use the word 'Joshua', they are of course translating it correctly, but not according to the original Greek, which the KJV uses, & this name translates to 'Jesus'. If Greek was spoken in the Old Testament days, by all accounts, Joshua, who took over from Moses' leadership, would have been called 'Iesous, or Jesus'.
As for the RC Church changing the Sabbath to Sunday, I can't comment, not being RC. But the Bible shows that after Jesus died & rose from the dead, the early Church worshiped together on the Lord's Day, the first day of the week ( Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 6:2): Sunday. Sunday, to the Church then & now, never became the new Sabbath Day - Saturday always has been the correct Jewish Sabbath Day.
Why would the commendatore say that Hebrews four is talking about Joshua? There is no way it is talking about Joshua. The whole book is clearly written about the trinity and faith. Why in the middle of a sentence would the writer all of a sudden switch the name of Jesus from Jesus to be someone other than Jesus?
I believe that by saying that it is Joshua and not Jesus, you mislead people from the rest in the Lord and the day! Which it clearer states was never changed from the Sabbath of the Lord our God the creator of the world. (The Catholic church changed the Sabbath to Sunday. They say that is the mark of their ecclesiastical authority. During the reformation the Pope told Martin Luther to follow the Bible and its authority. Although he did not, sadly.)
So, if the Jesus being used in the 'Greek' in Hebrews is Joshua then wouldn't it stand to reason that all the Jesus references would be as well?
Yeshua is the Hebrew name, and its English spelling is "Joshua." Iesous is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name, and its English spelling is "Jesus." Thus, the names "Joshua" and "Jesus" are essentially the same; both are English pronunciations of the Hebrew and Greek names for our Lord. (For examples of how the two names are interchangeable, see Acts 7:45 and Hebrews 4:8 in the KJV. In both cases, the word Jesus refers to the Old Testament character Joshua.
As for the controversy over the letter J, it is much ado about nothing. It is true that the languages in which the Bible was written had no letter J. But that doesn't mean the Bible never refers to "Jerusalem" or "Judah." And it doesn't mean we cannot use the spelling "Jesus." If a person speaks and reads English, it is acceptable for him to spell things in an English fashion. Spellings can change even within a language: Americans write "Savior," while the British write "Saviour." The addition of a u (or its subtraction, depending on your point of view) has nothing to do with whom we're talking about. Jesus is the Savior, and He is the Saviour. Jesus and Yeshuah and Iesus are all referring to the same Person.
We refer to Him as "Jesus" because, as English-speaking people, we know of Him through English translations of the Greek New Testament. Scripture does not value one language over another, and it gives no indication that we must resort to Hebrew when addressing the Lord. The command is to "call on the name of the Lord," with the promise that we "shall be saved" ( Acts 2:21; Joel 2:32). Whether we call on Him in English, Korean, Hindi, or Hebrew, the result is the same: the Lord is salvation.
I have been reading your conversation and I will have to go by David's view since Hebrews 4:2 says that the gospel was preached to us as well as the OT Israelites. This wording implies that the gospel is the same gospel, not two types of gospel.
We do not know all of what God told the OT saints (Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, the prophets) we know just what was recorded in Scripture. But if the Word in Hebrews says that those in the OT had the gospel preached to them, then I think we should believe that it is the one true gospel of Jesus our Savior and His work for our salvation.
Christ was the "Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." Rev 13:8
Hebrews 4:2,3 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
Hebrews 10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Romans 3:10,11 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.
Genesis 6:8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD.
But those sacrifices could not bring cleansing of the heart & conscience, which only Christ's shed Blood could. They remained in limbo - God accepting their sacrifices, pleased to abide with them, yet looking ahead when His Own Sacrifice would bring full cleansing, new life, & a permanent rest for their souls.
The Gospel of 'Rest' that was promised to them, was not just of entering Canaan ( Deuteronomy 12:9-11; Joshua 22:43-45), but was spoken of a future Rest ( Hebrews 4:8,9; Isaiah 11:10 (both in the first & second comings of Jesus)). This was always God's Plan, even to include Gentiles in such blessing - and Jesus only could be the Sacrifice that would bring true & lasting rest for all. All the sacrifices pointed to Him & the temporary rest that Israel enjoyed (when they were faithful), could only be fully realized when Christ's Blood also applied to them, yet future. Present-day Israel is in turmoil (spiritually, physically, nationally), having rejected their Messiah. They will never have God's Rest whilst in this state. But when they see their Messiah coming in the clouds, come to Him in brokenness & repentance, having their hearts cleansed by His Blood not by sacrifices, then Hebrews 4:9 will be fully realized, "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God."
Thanks again David0921 for these Scriptures, & of course, I don't share in your understanding of them. I will look at the main one: Hebrews 4:1-3.
You understand this passage as referring to the Gospel that was delivered to us, that it was the same as they (OT Israel) also received. However, this passage is not talking about the Gospel of Salvation through a Redeemer, but about the Gospel that was ordained before the worlds were framed together - and that is, that God's Plan was for all (Jew & Gentile) to enter into HIS REST. And that is what the Gospel is: for us, we know that perfect rest (from our struggle with sin, of certain judgement for it, of being accepted by God & receiving His Peace) can only be attained through the Cross & looking unto it.
The Gospel that was 'preached as well unto them' contained nothing of Christ's Sacrifice. To force the word 'Gospel' in the OT to mean the same as in the NT, is to misapply the meaning & understanding of Scripture. When the Gospel came to us, we were dead in our sins & in desperate need of redemption & only through Christ's death we could have any hope. When the Gospel came to them, they were already the elect, chosen of God, to remain faithful to God, obeying His Commands, & observing the Sacrifices & associated laws. If they exercised faith & looked only unto God & none other, they would be saved; just as Abraham, Moses, & others were. Which also agrees with the translation of Enoch & Elijah, where these men were counted faithful & for God's Own purpose, were removed from the Earth. But then the question: 'weren't these also sinners, though being the Elect, needing cleansing; how could faith & sacrifice only save them?' Hebrews 9:13,14: these sacrifices only sanctified the people to the "purifying of the flesh"; God instituted this that they may be forgiven & He could dwell in the midst of them & be their constant Guide, providing them that temporary covering for their sin. Onto Page 2.
Any understanding of the Salvation of OT Believers must take into account these verses.
Matthew 17:1-3 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold THERE APPEARED UNTO THEM MOSES AND ELIAS TALKING WITH HIM.
Genesis 5:24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; FOR GOD TOOK HIM.
2 Kings 2:11 And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and ELIJAH WENT UP BY A WHIRLWIND INTO HEAVEN.
These things could happen because the EFFICACY of Christ's Atonement, the payment for their sins, existed from the FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD, i.e. from CREATION. As we read in Rev 13:8 that Christ was THE LAMB SLAIN FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.
Additionally we read in Hebrews 4:1-3 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. FOR UNTO US WAS THE GOSPEL PREACHED, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM {OT Israel}: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: ALTHOUGH THE WORKS { Rev 13:8} WERE FINISHED FROM THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.
And this is the reason that OT Believers could be and were BORN AGAIN just like NT Believers. And when they died physically they went to be with Christ in Heaven in their soul existence, exactly like NT Believers. And they did not go into the never never land of someplace called Hades for centuries.
One Gospel; One Salvation; One application of Salvation; One Destination upon physical death. For OT and NT Believers ALIKE.
I can't tell you how Dan would answer that question,
but here's mine
It's not a work of our self-efforts in our own strengths or our own understanding, it following the Light of Christ in our hearts, the still small Voice of Conscience that convicts us of our wrong doings & directs us to do what is just, good & holy, Titus 2:11
Micah 6:8 , its the Treasure we have in these earthen vessels, enlightening us in the power of Holy Spirit, picking up the Cross & denying self, & causing us to will & do of His good pleasure, which works were finishes from the foundation of the world, Hebrews 4:3 Acts 15:18 We enter into His works, coming to a place of rest from our own works
Then there some that are persuaded they don't have to do anything, but believe, without becoming a doer of the Word, thats more like being a demon, for they believes, but they do not obey.
Consider all that Scriptures, beginning with Abraham, Gen 18:19 by his obedience Abraham proved his faith & his love for God
John 15:10 he abided in God's love & received all that God had promise him, through his obedience to God's commands.
Today's Christianity says you can be a Christian without keeping His commandments, God loves you & His grace got you covered. This is a changing of the definition of Grace, which is defined in Scripture as Titus 2:12 Grace is the power of God to reveal our sins & to takes us out of them, not to encourage or pamper us in our sins.
Friends, God salvation is a free gift, but faith without works is dead. James 2:17-26 this is clearly seen & understood in the whole of Scriptures. Jesus Himself learn obedience by the things that He suffer, & became perfect, perfected our salvation, all for our sakes, that we may follow Him. John 14:31
in love & truth
In my vision, and I'm sure of this, the day of Christ's return is the day 1.335 - Daniel 12:12. GOD said: 12 Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days. Why GOD said that? Exactly 75 days after the END of the last week, week 70th Daniel 9:27, and 45 days after the END of the Abomination of Desolation.
The question is: How to know by the calendar what day the day 1335 will fall on? Impossible, for now. Anyway, get ready, because it's very close.
GOD BLESS YOU, AND ALL
Right. Very soon there will be TWO DISTINCTS MAN Beasts operating or reigning in the Earth in this current time of Apocalypse, time of the END( 1Corinthians 15:24-28.Take a look.) Let us be ready to face them with the Sword, the Word of GOD- Hebrews 4:12-13KJV-. As you said, they are:
1 - the Beast of sea
2 - the Beast of the earth
1 - The very old and serial Gentilic MAN Beast of sea - Rev.13:1-10- , has seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy, and whose very ancient roots are described in the verse 2.
2 - The MAN Beast of the earth having two horns like a lamb, a false lamb, in fact a false and ruthless messiah, Rev.13:11-18 combined with John 5:43-47 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2-4 and 9-12. Terrible. Terrible.
Let us prepare to enter and face the final environment of the last week of the Devil's world, and the establishment of the FIFTH universal Devil's kingdom, the Antichrist's kingdom, and also in the middle of this last week the Abomination of Desolation- Daniel 9:27-, this satanic Kingdom is represented and described allegorically in the feet and ten toes of the statue of Nebuchadnezzar, part of iron and part of clay, according to Dan.2:41-45.Take a look.
In that fifth universal empire of the Devil, the universal empire of Antichrist, two satanic Beasts will be reigning on Earth, a Gentile Beast and a Jewish Beast, both represented literally in Rev.13, first as the Beast that rose out of the sea, rose from among the nations, from among the peoples, it rose precisely in Italy more or less 2.000 years ago still in the Roman Empire, and the second Beast, the Beast that will still rise from the Earth in this current time, precisely in Israel -Jerusalem- the holy city- this Beast will sit on his own throne as if he was God, claiming to be the messiah, actually an IMPOSTER, a false Christ,-Matt.24:23-, as JESUS warned us, and will exalt himself as if he were God, but he is MAN and not God.
Part 2.
The Foundation and Corner stone.
Jesus being the corner stone and the Apostles being the foundation signifies the beginning of a groundbreaking plan to erect a building and that building is the Church.
As I mentioned previously, the commission to carry the Gospel to the world came right after the resurrection, as shown in the Gospels " Luke 24:42-49 and Matthew 28:19-20."
I agree with you that the scripture says to the Jews first, and then the Gentiles,
However, I would suggest that the Gospel was preached to them before the cross as well as Abraham.
Hebrews 3:17-19 - Hebrews 4:1-6.
"But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?
And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not?
So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. FOR UNTO US WAS THE GOSPEL PREACHED, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: BUT THE WORD PREACHED DID NOT PROFIT THEM, NOT BEING MIXED WITH FAITH IN THEM THAT HEARD IT.
For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works.
And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest.
Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, AND THEY TO WHOM IT WAS FIRST PREACHED ENTERED NOT IN BECAUSE OF UNBELIEF:
Also;
And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, PREACHED BEFORE THE GOSPEL UNTO ABRAHAM, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. Galatians 3:8.
More about this blindness in part 2.
Trusting relationships and prayers with individuals who are our "accountability partners" certainly is helpful. As stated before things meant to be in confidence should remain that way unless the safety of someone is in jeopardy. There are times when things are pretty evident; which can be shared with a small group but still not be discussed with others; we need to be wise and discerning in those matters.
When we observe sin such as anger; we are often responsible to confront our brother; if necessary. Offering prayer in that situation is usually better in an impromptu request; even if we can't meet up with them until later. We should desire others to be real; to open up about the real issues bothering them; as well as being free to express what the Spirit is leading us to pray about. Hebrews 4:12 talks about the "thoughts and intentions of the heart." In that sense; I believe prayer should at times be uncomfortable; exposing things we need to submit to the Spirit; breaking through spiritual strongholds; etc. Sadly; it seems 9 times out of 10 people want to have casual conversation about all their issues without committing it to prayer rather than the other way around. Maybe when people plan to meet even socially in church events prayer should be the introduction and concluding remarks.
As to prayer for our nation; revival is a common theme. I question WHY this is the case; risking whatever controversy that ensues. Even in true ones in the past the enemy often wreaks havoc; hence they tend to be rather brief; and there seems to be little regard for the risk of a false one and prayer against such things. It certainly begins with the believers ( 2 Chronicles 7:14) but of course we can't neglect the part of turning from our wicked ways. Man in general apart from the Spirit's prompting has NO DESIRE to be Holy; and hates God. Many will fall away in the last days; and anyone God draws will be saved.
Amen!
to your questions;
1.Can you generate this height of Love on your own? No, the exhortation that Jesus gives us in these Scriptures creates a desire within us to please Him, which is a breaking up of the fallow ground of our hearts Hosea, 10:12 to the planting of this Seed, & as we are not a forgettful hearer of the word, but an exerciser of it, the Seed grows as God gives the increase according to our integrity & sincerity of heart towards Him. Hebrews 4:12,13
2.Is it not a fruit of the Spirit given once one IS saved? No, it to is an exercising of these virtues in the same manner describe above, Philippains 1:11, being filled 2 Cor 9:10 increasing; denoting a work in process, as we remain faithful, steadfast & true in His great work of regeneration within us.
in love & truth
When did Christ, eternal God Himself, the Lamb of God, complete the payment required for the sins of every True Believer, those whom God would save throughout time?
When was Christ, eternal God Himself, the "Son of God", eternal God Himself Begotten of the Father, eternal God Himself?
Is there any difference in God's Salvation of Old Testament Believers versus New Testament Believers?
How does what we read in Revelation 13:8 that Christ is "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" and Hebrews 4:4 "For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did REST the seventh day from ALL his works."influence our understanding about these questions?
My purpose in raising these questions is the Hope that God might cause us all to search the scriptures afresh regarding God's Judgment and Salvation plan for mankind, praying constantly that God Himself would open our understanding and lead us into truth.
Philippians 2:2-11 goes through a detailed synopsis of how Christ; a member of the infinite Godhead came to earth and humbled himself to live as a man and to die on a cross. We often focus on how Christ's intimacy with the Father was affected; with the peak of course being at the crucifixion ( Matt. 27:46). The reverse; no doubt would have been excruciating for God the Father as well. For Christ to die for His enemies is beyond our comprehension; but for the Father in His eternal plans to plan on crushing the Son ( Isaiah 53:10) is also beyond our understanding. Yet God was "pleased" to do this!
The victory was complete; when He said "it is finished" and gave up his spirit at death. ( John 19:30). Death could not overtake Him ( Acts 2:24-32).
Looking at the entire earthly existence of Christ we see how profoundly He humbled Himself as a servant. One who created the heavens and the earth chose to live with total abandon to the cause; He had no place to rest His head ( Matt. 8:20). No doubt there were transient lodgings as recorded in scripture; the only place where it mentioned Him sleeping was on the boat ( Mark 4:38). Often He was up before dawn praying; and before He chose the 12 Disciples He was up all night ( Luke 6:12). Being the Son of God of course He knew all things; but nonetheless prayer was a key factor indicating communion with God. In the case of Peter Jesus prayed against the Devil's schemes ( Luke 22:32); in that case He knew about Peter's eventual restoration and strengthening of His brothers before the denial at Christ's trial took place. Doubtless He also prayed similar ways for the others; and clearly in these passages He knew all would betray Him as the prophecies indicate ( Matt. 26:31 from prophecy in Zech. 13:7). He also demonstrated the ultimate care for His mother ( John 19:25-29); but always put God above men's desires ( Matt. 12:46-50).
Hebrews 4:15 allows Him to intercede ( Heb. 7:25).
I do not normally respond to you since your beliefs seem to be so contrary to what the Bible is teaching. You seem to believe that God the Holy Spirit is communicating directly with you in some articulated form, perhaps in a dream or a vision or a voice or a tongue, apart from the Bible. And that belief runs absolutely counter to what God very clearly declares in Rev 22:18, which is a very dangerous place to be and I would never want to be in that position.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
1 John 2:1-6 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
2 Peter 3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.
Once the Bible was completed, God the Holy Spirit only communicates to mankind via the scriptures and He opens our understanding as we search the scriptures "comparing spiritual with spiritual". "Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God", the Bible.
The True Gospel is circumscribed by the Bible alone and in its entirety. And that is the only Gospel I want to be following.
3. The word of God the Bible is either it has happened, or it is happening, and it is for us set as an example for how we should live before the Lord our God. it is also very current and accurate. See Malach 3:16 and Jude 1:7. thus
it is written in Hebrews 4:12
12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
and in 2 timothy 3:16
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work
-And There are prophecy which will come to be fulfilled like the coming of the ant-Christ but remember there are many anti-Christ today.
as it is written in 1 John 2:18
Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour
4. anyone who turns away from sins makes himself a prey it is written in.
Isaiah 59:15
Yea, truth faileth; and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the Lord saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment.
-So the devil does not care for anyone who calls himself Christian but is not committed. But if anyone is committed and obeys Gods word and does all is written in the bible then Satan shifts all his attentions to them and hence the wiles of the devil. Therefore, put all the Armour of God not one but all. as it is written in Ephesians 6:11
11Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Please read part 3.
Amen
Continuing the thought of the invisible realm (see John 20:29); we begin to understand the promises of God's protection of His saints ( Psalm 91:11; Isaiah 52:12) through the angels; we see how to correctly "bind and loose" ( Matt. 16:19); how to align more closely to what Christ is interceding in our behalf in seeking His will ( Heb. 7:25); and of course see those in bondage loosed from Satan's grip ( Luke 4:18-19) taken from Isaiah 61:1.
Those who love Him keep His commandments ( John 14:21) and originally found in Deuteronomy 7:9. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ( Proverbs 9:10 but found many other places in scripture).
For a case study; let us examine 1 Corinthians 14:22-25 where we have tongues and prophecy as applying to unbelievers in one verse then switch to believers in the next verses. This means that evidence of the power of God needs to be present AND a clear message relatable to the sinner or saint present given. In reality there cannot be a supernatural manifestation of the Spirit WITHOUT a piercing of the soul ( Hebrews 4:12) that is of course accompanied by the Gospel as the rest of the verse indicates. It also shows how a church must be corrected as He chastises all His own (found further on in Hebrews 12 verse 6).
The fact that some spiritual activity is occuring isn't evidence that God is at work; it could be demons. The fact that this was still a place where His Spirit was at work was evident in the fact that Paul's severe discipline had results; and that right quick (as the Brits like to say). This is clear from chapter 7 of 2 Corinthians. As I started off this discourse; I mentioned the Ephesians. They were threatened with total removal of their candlestick in Revelation 2. Therefore; being dead would be worse than immature; even with all the correct doctrines and outer actions; ceremonies; etc.
John 16:8 shows how the true Spirit of God works.
Thanks for the provided summary on Israels failure to entering into the promise land.
I would like to share something based on your last statement.
( It is a very sad time for the people God had delivered from bondage. Though they were chosen as a people to receive great promises and benefits from being God's covenant people. They blew it royally at the time they were closest to entering in.)
When we look at Genesis 15:7-18 we learn that God covenant was unconditional, In fact Verse 18 shows us that God has already gave them the land.
vs 18) "In the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, UNTO THY SEED HAVE I GIVEN THIS LAND, from the river of Egypt unto the great river, the river Euphrates:
They had to possess it by faith!
That's the lesson and example for all the world to see!
Also what's important to note is God's word is at stake. Moses makes mention of that later in scripture.
Israel couldn't enter in because of unbelief.
Hebrews ch's 3 and 4 hammers away at this.
But notice Hebrews 4:7-9. Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.
There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.
God bless
Thank you for sharing Hebrews 4:12. I do agree with you that the word of God is alive today, just as it was back then. But if I may answer your question "Without the Strongs Concordance then how would we know the Word of God is Alive today?"
Do we really need a Strong's Concordance to know that the word of God is alive today? Those words in Hebrews 4:12 were written sometime between 67 and 69 AD. They had no concordance. And even if they did, what language would their concordance be written in if what they had at the time was the Greek text? How would they have known that the word of God was alive back then?
Please know that I am not trying to be argumentative here. I am just trying to understand why we would need a Strong's Concordance to know that the word of God is alive today.
Part 3.
The almond blossoms looked like wood but they were gold, reminding us of Aaron's rod that budded. When Aaron's priestly prerogative was in question, the budding of his almond rod established it. The almond rod, a dead branch, was made to live and to bear fruit. Christ was established as the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. It did not make Him Son of God, for He was that from the eternal counsels of God. Resurrection only confirmed it. Aaron was the Godappointed high priest, and it was confirmed by resurrection in the dead almond rod. The resurrection of Christ, likewise, established His priesthood. Christ is our great High Priest because He became a man, partook of our nature, and "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" ( Hebrews 4:15). But the primary basis of His priesthood is His deity. The priest represented men before God. Christ is God who became a man, and it is now the God-man who represents man. The resurrection which declared Him to be the Son of God likewise declared His priesthood.
There were no measurements given for the lampstand of pure gold. That which speaks of His deity alone cannot be measured, for deity is beyond the computation of man. Neither can a tape measure be placed along that which speaks of God. Again, the priesthood of Christ, which is conditioned on the fact that He became a man, is made to rest on His deity. There is not recorded any incident in the life of Christ in the Gospels which does not instantly record His deity with every mention of His humanity, yet never confusing or fusing the two. In the shortest verse of the Bible, "Jesus wept" ( John 11:35), there is recorded a perfectly human incident in His life. It is a characteristic of humanity to weep; it is perfectly natural. But the tears were not dry upon His cheeks before He commanded, "Lazarus, come forth" ( John 11:43). And Lazarus came forth. That was perfectly divine - only Deity has the power over death.
See part 4.
Cindy,
Hebrews Chapter 4 speaks of the superiority of Jesus Christ to Joshua. But it also talks about entering into Gods rest. When you get down to Hebrews 4:10, it says "For he that is entered into His rest, has also ceased from his own works, just as God did from His."
So, the writer of Hebrews is going back to creation. He's saying if you surrender to Christ, you will be doing just what God did. You will cease from your own works (your own efforts), at your own salvation, and you will enter into God's rest.
Now here's how it works:
God took 6 days to create all things. And by the way, the Hebrew word Yom for day, it can be either 24-hour days, or it could be like our metaphor when we say, "the day in which we live," meaning the age in which we live. It is important to know that the 6 days were six 24-hour days, as mentioned to us in Exodus Chapter 20.
But we have a problem in the creation account. The Jews don't have a problem. We have a problem as Gentiles understanding the connection here. In 6 days, God created all things. And on the 7th day, He entered into His rest and finished His work.
The number 6 in the bible is the number of man. We know that from the book of Revelation. The number of man is 6, and the man of sin, his number will be 666, not six-hundred and sixty-six, but 6 three times, in contrast to the trinity of God. So, the number 6 represents man, and the number 7 in the scriptures represents completion or perfection. So, man falls short of perfection or completion, therefore he has fallen short, as Paul would say of the glory of God.
Now here's what the writer of Hebrews is trying to get across:
The writer is trying to tell us that God has provided for us salvation. That parallels His 6 days of creation, to the point where He comes to us on the 7th day of His creative works for our salvation, and He says "Enter in to your rest!"
I think you may have uncovered something precious here, which clearly supports the present sense that I have, that "the seventh day has never ended". We as believers do enjoy that ongoing Sabbath (spiritual) rest ( Hebrews 4:1-6), which was denied to Israel for their wilful state of unbelief & disobedience; & yet our struggles in this life can never find its end, with that complete & perfect rest promised, never coming into our possession while Satan remains loose. Only until the Prince of Peace comes again & the world renewed without any possibility of such a devastating occurrence as before, can all of creation bask in the Glory of God & in His Perfect Rest as He originally planned for us. We just have a taste of it now (the 'evening' of the seventh day), waiting for that promised fruit to come to full maturity (the 'morning'), completing that seventh day of true & complete rest. As you can see, you've expanded my meditations on this considerably, for which I'm very appreciative.
You are correct, the church gathered for worship on Sunday since the time of the apostles. This is long before the RC Church emerged in the Holy Roman Empire.
Just to inform you that "Joshua" and "Jesus" is the same name in Hebrew. It is Yehoshua or Yashua. The first is used in the early chapters of the Old Testament whereas the second in the later when that name was simplified. It means " God is my salvation". The English transformed the first into Joshua and the second into Jesus. But it is the same name in 2 alternative forms. In the verse you mentioned that person is Joshua, not Jesus, this is obvious since Joshua gave them rest by being their leader when they entered and captured the land of promise.
As far as the Sabbath is concerned, apostle Paul in Colossians 2:16-17 asks christians to not let others judge them for not keeping things from the Old Testament, like Sabbath or other holly days. So it wasn't a Catholic invention, it was adopted as the formal day for christian congregation still from the very early time.
GBU
In the Greek language, 'Joshua, or Yehoshua' (from the Hebrew), is translated as 'Jesus, or Iesous'. And we find the translators making the same change in Acts 7:45. So, the KJV translators are correct in understanding this Hebrew to Greek change, though as you wrote, it can be misleading to those unfamiliar with the account or reading through those verses very quickly. We can see from Hebrews 4:8, that the writer is referring back to verse 5 ("And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest": Psalm 95:11), & even all the way back to Hebrews 4:1 when the subject of 'Rest' is brought up.
Even though most Bible translations use the word 'Joshua', they are of course translating it correctly, but not according to the original Greek, which the KJV uses, & this name translates to 'Jesus'. If Greek was spoken in the Old Testament days, by all accounts, Joshua, who took over from Moses' leadership, would have been called 'Iesous, or Jesus'.
As for the RC Church changing the Sabbath to Sunday, I can't comment, not being RC. But the Bible shows that after Jesus died & rose from the dead, the early Church worshiped together on the Lord's Day, the first day of the week ( Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 6:2): Sunday. Sunday, to the Church then & now, never became the new Sabbath Day - Saturday always has been the correct Jewish Sabbath Day.
I believe that by saying that it is Joshua and not Jesus, you mislead people from the rest in the Lord and the day! Which it clearer states was never changed from the Sabbath of the Lord our God the creator of the world. (The Catholic church changed the Sabbath to Sunday. They say that is the mark of their ecclesiastical authority. During the reformation the Pope told Martin Luther to follow the Bible and its authority. Although he did not, sadly.)
So, if the Jesus being used in the 'Greek' in Hebrews is Joshua then wouldn't it stand to reason that all the Jesus references would be as well?
Yeshua is the Hebrew name, and its English spelling is "Joshua." Iesous is the Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name, and its English spelling is "Jesus." Thus, the names "Joshua" and "Jesus" are essentially the same; both are English pronunciations of the Hebrew and Greek names for our Lord. (For examples of how the two names are interchangeable, see Acts 7:45 and Hebrews 4:8 in the KJV. In both cases, the word Jesus refers to the Old Testament character Joshua.
As for the controversy over the letter J, it is much ado about nothing. It is true that the languages in which the Bible was written had no letter J. But that doesn't mean the Bible never refers to "Jerusalem" or "Judah." And it doesn't mean we cannot use the spelling "Jesus." If a person speaks and reads English, it is acceptable for him to spell things in an English fashion. Spellings can change even within a language: Americans write "Savior," while the British write "Saviour." The addition of a u (or its subtraction, depending on your point of view) has nothing to do with whom we're talking about. Jesus is the Savior, and He is the Saviour. Jesus and Yeshuah and Iesus are all referring to the same Person.
We refer to Him as "Jesus" because, as English-speaking people, we know of Him through English translations of the Greek New Testament. Scripture does not value one language over another, and it gives no indication that we must resort to Hebrew when addressing the Lord. The command is to "call on the name of the Lord," with the promise that we "shall be saved" ( Acts 2:21; Joel 2:32). Whether we call on Him in English, Korean, Hindi, or Hebrew, the result is the same: the Lord is salvation.