A Hebraic Verse by Verse

Explanation

of

The Revelation of

Y’ shua HaMashiach

We Inform, You Choose

Prof WA Liebenberg

The Revelation of

Y’shua HaMashiach

by

Prof WA Liebenberg

Proofread by: Lynette Schaefer

Academic Proofread by: Ed Garner BTh. MSc.

The Scriptures 1998 Bible was used for The Revelation

1st Print               (English)                                                         September 2000 (Richards Bay, SA)

2nd Print               (English)                                                        November 2000 (Richards Bay, SA)

3rd Print               (Afrikaans translation)                                           January 2001 (Richards Bay, SA)

4th Print - First Revision (English & Afrikaans)               October 2001 (Richards Bay, SA)

5th Print (Tamil)                                                                       March 2002 (Mombay, India)

6th Print (Hindi)                                                                       September 2002 (Ludiana, India)

7th Print (English & Afrikaans)                                           September 2003 (Johannesburg, SA)

8th Print - Second Revision (English & Afrikaans)              June 2008 (Pretoria, SA)

9th Print (English & Afrikaans)                                           March 2011 (Krugersdorp, SA)

10th Print - Hebraic perspective update (English)               June 2013 (Krugersdorp, SA)

Distributed by:

HRTI Publishing

Hebraic Roots Teaching Institute

Krugersdorp – South Africa

Email: products@hrti.co.za

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Website: www.hrti.co.za

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DEDICATION

To my children Tyrone, Keanu and Mioki

INDEX

What is My Identity?                                                                                                                                            5

What Covenant do I have to Adhere To?                                                                                                    17

YHWH’s Uncompromising Guidelines of Holy Living                                                                                       35

Introduction and Background                                                                                                                 `              43

Chapter 1: Yochanan on the Island of Patmos, and the Vision of Y’shua                                                         44

Chapter 2: The Things which Are – Present Time                                                                                     50

Chapter 3: The Things which Are – Present Time (continue)                                                                       59

Chapter 4: The Things Hereafter – Future Time                                                                                                   70

Chapter 5: The Throne Room (continue)                                                                                                   77

Chapter 6: The Seal Judgments                                                                       `                                                        81

Chapter 7: YHWH’s Provision                                                                                                                               96

Chapter 8: Last Seal and the Trumpet Judgments                                                                                     102

Chapter 9: The Trumpet Judgments Continue                                                                                                   106

Chapter 10: The Mighty Angel with the Little Book                                                                                     110

Chapter 11: The Sixth Trumpet Continues                                                                                                   113

Chapter 12: The Heavens Declare Israel’s Future                                                                                     119

Chapter 13: The Beasts from the Sea and Earth                                                                                                   132

Chapter 14: Events during the Great Tribulation                                                                                                   143

Chapter 15: Introduction to the Seven Vial/Bowl Judgments                                                                       161

Chapter 16: The Seven Vial/Bowl Judgments                                                                                                   165

Chapter 17: A Parenthetical Chapter - Mystery Babylon,  the False Religious System Destroyed               169

Chapter 18: A Parenthetical Chapter - Secular Babylon  the Commercial System Destroyed               178

Chapter 19: The Revelation of Y’shua Hamashiach                                                                                     185

Chapter 20: The Millennial Reign                                                                                                                 196

Chapter 21: The New Heaven, New Earth and New Jerusalem                                                                      208

Chapter 22: The River of Live                                                                                                                              216

Appendix: 1 What is Jewish Eschatology              ?                                                                                                  221

Bibliography

Before you attempt to read the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach

you need to understand what your Identity is

Introduction

Satan has crippled Christians for the last two thousand years. He has masterfully deceived the very elect from Christianity and drawn them into a black pit of obscurity, blurring their minds and distorting the fundamental truth of the core reason why YHWH allowed His Son to be brutally murdered.

This fundamental reason is so profoundly important that YHWH through His Word, the Bible, concentrates systematically with unrestrained effort to the fulfillment of His immaculate plan for His people.

We have all been taught that Israel is the Jewish people and the Jewish people are Israel. This misunderstanding has distorted our ability to truly comprehend from the Scriptures all that was originally intended by YHWH. The greatest prophecy of the Word of YHWH concerns this very topic, and is the epicenter of the entire plan of YHWH.

This teaching is undoubtedly the key to understanding the entire Bible. Many great scholars[1] who came to grasp with this phenomenal revelation quote the late Professor C.A.L. Totten of Yale University’s profound words concerning this crucial subject:

"I can never be too thankful to the Almighty that in my youth he used the late Professor Wilson to show me the difference between the two houses. The very understanding of this difference is the KEY by which almost the entire Bible becomes intelligible, and I cannot state too strongly that the man who has not yet seen that Israel of the scripture is totally distinct from the Jewish people, is yet in the very infancy, the mere alphabet of Biblical study, and that to this day the meaning of seven-eighths of the Bible is shut to his understanding".[2]

Both Professors Totten and Wilson clearly understood the vivid word of Y’shua: "I came only for the lost sheep of Israel"![3]

With that in mind, let’s start our journey…

Our Responsibility as Instructed by YHWH

Some years ago I wrote a booklet called "The Highest Form of Worship is Studying the Word"; that teaching has been embedded in my brain even till today. I do not think that Christians really understand how crucial it is to study YHWH’s Word; passages like the ones listed below run shivers down my spine. Take, for example, the first passage here from Hosea: Christians can all quote it from the top of their heads (well – the first part); but the conditions and consequence in the second part they blatantly ignore:

6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: (now here is that second part) because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me (1 Peter 2:9): seeing thou hast forgotten the law (Torah) of thy God, I will also forget thy children (a curse on your children simply because you rejected YHWH’s Instructions).[4]

The same words are echoed in the New Covenant:

15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.[5]

Then we find the "red letter" directly from Y’shua’s mouth:

19 Therefore, go and make taught ones (disciplined followers) of all the nations, immersing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Set-apart Spirit, 20 teaching them to guard all that I have commanded you (His Father’s Torah).[6]

Food for thought:

Even Sha’ul, the greatest teacher of all time (apart from Y’shua), initially thought He was right too when he devotedly murdered Believers. Is it possible that you could have been taught wrongly by a Pastor who is perhaps caught up in false tradition?...

Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down…[7]

Meaning a spirit of "tradition" makes the Word of YHWH of none effect

Could Heathen Gentiles get into YHWH’s Covenant in the Beginning?

It is evident from many Old Covenant Scriptures that Heathen Gentiles  always had access to YHWH – they always had hope. Before the time the New Covenant was written, they could get into the covenant without the blood of Y’shua just by having faith in YHWH and adhering to the Torah as per the Scriptures listed below:

Exod 12:49 One law shall be for the native-born and for the stranger who dwells among you.

Lev 24:22 You shall have the same law for the stranger and for one from your own country; for I am YHWH your God.

Num 15:16 One law and one custom shall be for you and for the stranger who dwells with you.

Num 15:29 You shall have one law for him who sins unintentionally, for him who is native-born among the children of Israel and for the stranger who dwells among them.

Psalm 18:44 As soon as they hear of me (Torah) they obey me; The foreigners submit to me.

Isaiah 56:6 Also the sons of the foreigner Who join themselves to YHWH, to serve Him, And to love the name of YHWH, to be His servants— Everyone who keeps from defiling the Sabbath, And holds fast My covenant—

Ezek 44:9 Thus says the Lord YHWH: "No foreigner, uncircumcised in heart or uncircumcised in flesh, shall enter My sanctuary, including any foreigner who is among the children of Israel".

This is the key for getting into the Covenant with YHWH: there was only one Law, and that law was and is YHWH’s Torah. The issue here is much deeper than what we can see at face value. In fact, what we are about to study and understand is a huge mystery! That mystery of YHWH’s is still applicable for the Believer of today; and if you fail to grasp it, then it can have detrimental effects on your eternal life!

It’s because there's more to having a relationship with YHWH than just "believing in Jesus" as Christians insist. YHWH has some rules to follow; and if you refuse, then you don't belong to Him – period. This is what Sha’ul[8] is explaining here in Eph 2:11-13 and what Christians grossly misinterpret:

11 Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— 12 that at that time you were without Messiah, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Messiah Y’shua you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Messiah.

The passage above is just one example of how Christianity has misinterpreted the writings of Sha’ul, which are used as "proof" that YHWH's Torah[9] was supposedly abolished at the "cross".

Christianity seems to be built on the much-misunderstood writings of Rav[10] Sha'ul, and they fail to understand the depth of Sha’ul’s teaching on the Torah. Even Peter mentioned that Sha’ul's writings would surely be hard to understand and that people would ultimately twist Sha’ul's teachings:

15 And think of our Lord's patience as deliverance, just as our dear brother Sha'ul also wrote you, following the wisdom God gave him. 16 Indeed, he speaks about these things in all his letters. They contain some things that are hard to understand, things which the uninstructed and unstable distort (those pastors unschooled in the Torah teach absurd doctrines), to their own destruction (read Prov 28:9), as they do the other Scriptures (then because of their Torah-lessness they will not understand the Bible). 17 But you, dear friends, since you know this in advance, guard yourselves; so that you will not be led away by the errors of the wicked and fall from your own secure position.[11]

The Intricate Plan for our Redemption Ordained before the World

Okay, let’s start at the beginning to resolve this mammoth mystery.

Before the foundations of earth were formed, YHWH knew and loved you and me so much that He devised such an intricate plan for our redemption that even the angels (and satan) couldn't fathom its depths. We can only begin to comprehend the meaning of true love as we gain a greater realization of the depths of His love and the intricacy of His plan for the sons (and daughters) of faith.

This teaching through the words of Sha’ul will explain the wonder of YHWH’s love and the deeper core understanding of why Y’shua, our Messiah, had to die that we might fulfill the original purposes of our heavenly Father’s love and determination!

1 But we speak the wisdom of YHWH in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which YHWH ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes (satanic rulers) of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[12]

I can't help but think that our heavenly Father was even more excited as He considered our ends even from our beginnings. I suspect that His love, which is His very essence, resonated with the joy of His heart as He called out faithful Abraham from among the pagan worshippers of Ur in anticipation of birthing a nation of the faithful, called Israel. And yet, even before the first breath of the chosen ones was drawn, YHWH had a purpose of union in the most intimate of relationships – marriage.

Abraham the Point of Departure for the "Marriage" Plan

He called forth a people of faith, like Abraham; and a nation that would be a tree of righteousness planted by the river of YHWH. But even as the prophet Jeremiah declared immediately after stating this beautiful allegory, YHWH knew that "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?"[13]. Thus, many branches of the called-out Israel would have to be cut off (and others grafted in) the root stalk of that tree.

The Book of Hebrews records[14] that many fell in the wilderness for their unfaithfulness and lack of belief. The Book of Romans also records, "... For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel". But it is Israel and Judah (two different groups) for whom was given the new covenant: "But God found fault with the people and said: "The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah"[15]. Again, we notice two different groups which we will focus later on in this teaching; but for now let’s get back to the chronological order of the marriage plan...

YHWH promised Abraham that his seed would become many. This blessing was passed on to Isaac and Jacob. Jacob then blessed his son "Ephraim" and said that "Ephraim’s" seed shall become "a multitude of nations":

And when Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand upon the head of Ephraim, it displeased him: and he held up his father's hand, to remove it from Ephraim's head unto Manasseh's head. And Joseph said unto his father, Not so, my father: for this is the firstborn; put thy right hand upon his head. And his father refused, and said, I know it, my son, I know it: he also shall become a people, and he also shall be great: but truly his younger brother shall be greater than he, and his seed shall become a multitude of nations.[16]

The key to understand this prophecy lies in the fact that the Northern Ten Tribes dominant’s tribe was Ephraim and Ephraim many times in Scripture represents the entire northern Ten Tribes known as the House of Israel. This means that YHWH said that the House of Israel would become many nations.

The Hebrew word for "multitude of nations" is "melo ha'goyim" and literally means "the fullness of the nations". Viewing "multitude of nations" from a Grecian perspective, a Greek mindset and how Christians view it and then it seems to mean: "Gentiles". By their interpretation, a Gentile is "of the nations"; meaning "not of the ONE nation Israel".

This is where satan has brought the highest level of deception in, which directly opposes YHWH’s prophecy through the blessing of "Ephraim" by his father Jacob. You see it is Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes that will become a multitude of nations. It is the Ten Tribes that would be scattered abroad and be absorbed into the foreign countries in the years to come.

YHWH Brought His Bride from out of Egypt and Proposed to Her

Even though YHWH knew the heart of man, He loved His betrothed so much that He brought her out of Egypt unto Mt. Sinai and proposed His marriage covenant in saying:

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant (Torah), then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation...[17]

Here at Mt Sinai, YHWH gave the "ketubah" (the "marriage covenant") to His bride; which of course is the Torah, and the bride responded with "I do", saying:

And all the people answered together, and said, All that YHWH hath spoken we will do.[18]

She then reaffirmed this pledge again as recorded in Exod 24:3-5 and finalized the covenant in writing and consummated it in blood:

And Moses wrote all the words of YHWH, and rose up early in the morning, and builded an altar under the hill, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel. And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto YHWH. And Moses took half of the blood, and put it in basins; and half of the blood he sprinkled on the altar. And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that YHWH hath said will we do, and be obedient. And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which YHWH hath made with you concerning all these words.[19]

However, unlike we earthly fathers who really didn't know if all our children would even make it to college, YHWH knew every step that Israel would take. He knew that she would accept His marriage covenant at Mt. Sinai only to become a harlot once He gave her the Promised Land.

YHWH also, ahead of time, told them that if they do this and not be obedient to Him, then He will curse them by dispersing them amongst the heathens:

And the Lord shall scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left few in number among the heathen, whither the Lord shall lead you.[20]

And later on He said it again in Deut 28:36:

The Lord shall bring thee, and thy king which thou shalt set over thee, unto a nation which neither thou nor thy fathers have known;

YHWH also told them exactly what would happen if they repented from worshipping foreign gods and turn back to Him and embrace His covenant:

1 And it shall come to pass, when all these things are come upon thee, the blessing and the curse, which I have set before thee, and thou shalt call them to mind among all the nations (remember the covenant when you are amongst the heathen gentiles), whither the Lord thy God hath driven thee,2 And shalt return unto the Lord thy God, and shalt obey his voice according to all that I command thee this day (His Torah that was given to them), thou and thy children, with all thine heart, and with all thy soul;3 That then the Lord thy God will turn thy captivity, and have compassion upon thee, and will return and gather thee from all the nations, whither the Lord thy God hath scattered thee.4 If any of thine be driven out unto the outmost parts of heaven, from thence will the Lord thy God gather thee, and from thence will he fetch thee:5 And the Lord thy God will bring thee into the land which thy fathers possessed, and thou shalt possess it; and he will do thee good, and multiply thee above thy fathers.[21]

In other words, Disobedience means Dispersion; and Obedience the Returning of YHWH’s bride. The warning went out, but the Israelites did not take heed…

Israel then Chose Harlotry and Turned their Backs on YHWH

Do you recall that YHWH had Moshe[22] prophesy her harlotry in song before they ever entered the land?

When I have brought them into the land flowing with milk and honey, the land I promised on oath to their forefathers, and when they eat their fill and thrive, they will turn to other gods and worship them, rejecting me and breaking my covenant.[23]

As parents, our hearts are grieved when we begin to see the heart of our children rebel in disobedience, follow after foolishness, sin, separate themselves from the ways we've taught them and abandon our council and fellowship. How much more must our Father's heart have been grieved to know from the beginning of His courtship that He would have a harlot for a "bride" and wife!

Solomon’s Kingdom Split into Two Kingdoms:

Once the Israelites were in the Promised Land, they desired a king. YHWH gave them a king and one king followed after another. Eventually, Solomon was king – and later on his kingdom split into the northern part, consisting of Ten Tribes; and the southern part, consisting of Two Tribes. Solomon’s wives lured him into worshipping other gods and this is what YHWH refers to as His betrothed that has become a harlot. They slept with/worshipped other gods!

Various Names of the Two Kingdoms:

There are various names for these two Kingdoms in Scripture; depending on the context used:

Northern Kingdom                            Southern Kingdom

(Northern Ten Tribes)                            (Southern Two Tribes)

House of Israel                                           House of Judah

Israel                                                        Judah

Ephraim

Joseph

(Also known as the

Lost Ten Tribes)

YHWH eventually ran out of Patience and Divorced Israel

You would think that after the clear warning from YHWH, what would happen to them if they were disobedient to YHWH that they would take heed; but it did not happen and eventually YHWH divorced Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes:

And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery (Northern Ten Tribes) I had put her away (sent her away), and given her a bill of divorce (a "get" in Hebrew, a letter of divorce); yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also (later on, Judah and Benjamin, the Southern Two Tribes, did the same).[24]

After years and years of admonishments and pleas trying to woo Israel back into fidelity and trying not to divorce her, YHWH eventually gave up and had to divorce the House of Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes (Northern Kingdom of Ephraim). The Prophet Isaiah records the event:

For the head of Syria is Damascus, and the head of Damascus is Rezin; and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people (they were no longer YHWH’s people as He divorced her).[25]

The Northern Kingdom of Ephraim was then exiled into Assyria in 721 B.C. (the curse) exactly as YHWH warned them (and scattered amongst the heathen gentiles); and the Kingdom of Judah which also followed into harlotry years later was exiled into Babylon in 586 B.C. – but they were not scattered amongst the nations; they later returned back to the Promised Land.

Therefore the Lord was very angry with Israel, and removed them out of his sight: there was none left but the tribe of Judah only. Also Judah kept not the commandments of the Lord their God, but walked in the statutes of Israel which they made.[26]

While YHWH's long-suffering character caused Him to endure the shame and pain of His harlot wife for many centuries, He finally rejected both the Northern Kingdom of Israel/Ephraim as well as the Southern Kingdom of Judah.

Thus saith YHWH, Where is the bill of your mother's divorcement, whom I have put away? or which of my creditors is it to whom I have sold you? Behold, for your iniquities have ye sold yourselves, and for your transgressions is your mother put away.[27]

Judah returned to Jerusalem after 70 years in Babylon because they came back under the "covenant" – the detail of their return can be seen in Dan 9:2 and Jer 29:10. Sadly, Israel never came back under the covenant and is still scattered, even today. However, we have seen for the last several years, a remnant returning from the nations to Torah obedience.

Israel and Judah in an Allegorical Account in Hosea’s Life

YHWH's intentions were made clear in the writings of Hosea. Hosea’s prophetic life portrays YHWH’s intentions. Note that the Book of Hosea was written in the 8th century B.C., more than a century before the exile of the Northern Kingdom of Ephraim.

In this allegorical account of our Redeemer's love, Hosea's prophetic life announces YHWH's intention to divorce the House of Israel and then to wed a people that were "not His people".

YHWH told Hosea to take a whore as a wife and that he will have a "son" and a "daughter" and then "another son" from the whore. Lets first look at the first son:

3 So he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim; which conceived, and bare him a son.4 And the Lord said unto him, Call his name Jezreel (word play for Israel); for yet a little while, and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel.[28]

Let’s now look at the daughter. Take note that "Lo-ruhamah" in Hebrew means "no mercy" or "no compassion":

6 And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And God said unto him, Call her name Lo–ruhamah (no mercy): for I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away. 7 But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the Lord their God, and will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen.[29]

And now the last son:

8 Now when she had weaned Lo–ruhamah (no mercy), she conceived, and bare a son. 9 Then said God, Call his name Lo–ammi (not My people): for ye are not my people, and I will not be your God.[30]

This ties in exactly with the prophecy of Ephraim given earlier where Jacob blessed Ephraim and said his seed will become "a multitude of nations":

10 Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured nor numbered; and it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of the living God. 11 Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered together, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great shall be the day of Jezreel.[31]

Here we see that YHWH will regather the Two Houses.

In Hosea chapter 2, we see something remarkable; we see a name change in this allegorical account of Hosea’s life. It is important to note that the names change only after the regathering of the Two Houses:

1 Say ye unto your brethren, Ammi; and to your sisters, Ru–hamah... (Previously named Lo–ammi and Lo–ruhamah) 2 Plead with your mother, plead: for she is not my wife, neither am I her husband:[32]

The "harlot mother" is Israel in the past and the "children" is Israel who YHWH deserted in the present; and when they accept the "covenant" again and stop whoring with other gods and return home, then YHWH will accept her again as wife.

The core reason for YHWH to scatter Israel is because she renounced "the covenant"; and because of that, YHWH caused her to forget His Instruction laid out in the covenant; i.e., forget YHWH’s Sabbaths and accept a pagan substitute; to forget YHWH’s festivals and accept pagan festivals, etc:

11 I will also cause all her mirth (joy and happiness) to cease, her feast days, her new moons, and her sabbaths, and all her solemn feasts.

And this is where the Christian Church of today is: totally removed from YHWH’s "covenant" and infiltrated by satan’s doctrine to distort the truth. But YHWH clearly states that Israel will eventually wake up and renounce her paganism and seek her "real" Husband again with whom she made the "covenant":

7 And she shall follow after her lovers, but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find them: then shall she say, I will go and return to my first husband; for then was it better with me than now.[33]

YHWH said when she, Israel, has accepted her sin and shows remorse,  He will go out of His way to charm and powerfully attract her:

14 Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. 16 And it shall be at that day, saith the Lord, that thou shalt call me Ishi (my husband); and shalt call me no more Baali (my Lord - as the church name God). 17 For I will take away the names of Baalim (YHWH will remove the various names they call Him) out of her mouth, and they shall no more be remembered by their name. 23 And I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy (Ruhamah) upon her that had not obtained mercy (Lo-Ruhamah); and I will say to them which were not my people (Lo-Ammi), Thou art my people (Ammi); and they shall say, Thou art my God.

The church in general up to now have called YHWH and Y’shua by the name Lord[34]. YHWH says that this "Lord" (Baal) name for Him will also stop!

Chronological Order Summary of YHWH’s Mysterious Plan

Herewith a summary of how YHWH is unfolding His plan:

       YHWH married His Wife – Israel as a nation.

       King Solomon’s Kingdom was divided into Two Kingdoms.

       YHWH scattered the Northern Kingdom, the House of Israel also known as Ephraim.

       YHWH divorced Ephraim (the House of Israel), the Northern Ten Tribes.

       YHWH plans to bring her back and remarry.

       The "remarriage" is the single biggest problem and forbidden in the Torah

But Scripture has it that YHWH will remarry Ephraim again…

YHWH Promised that He will Remarry the House of Israel

Many passages in the Word testify that YHWH will remarry Ephraim, the House of Israel:

I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men.[35]

Hosea, which we studied earlier on, also confirms this:

19 And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in lovingkindness, and in mercies. 20 I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord.[36]

Here we can clearly see from the Scriptures quoted that YHWH wants and is going to remarry Israel; but we sit with a major problem …

Can YHWH Violate His own Rules and Instructions in the Torah?

Although we rejoice in our Messiah's sacrifice, doesn't the forgoing question make you wonder WHY Messiah Y’shua had to die? At the most basic level of understanding, we comprehend that He took the penalty of our sin upon the crucifixion stake with Him because we couldn't overcome sin and keep YHWH's Law – at any point of our spiritual history. And yet when we comprehend a deeper mystery of YHWH's love and persistent purpose to have the intimate fellowship of His bride, we see a deeper aspect of the riches of His mercy and love for us.

Why did Y’shua have to die? The deeper revelation lies in the mitzvot (Laws or better Instructions) He gave to us through Moshe, which is the Torah. To start off with, let’s answer this question: "What is sin?"

Scripture must interpret Scripture and the Word clearly says that sin is the transgression of YHWH’s Torah:

Whosoever commits sin transgresses also the law (Torah): for sin is the transgression of the law (Torah).[37]

Now here is the problem: the Torah (the Instructions of YHWH) clearly forbids the woman that harlotted and slept with other men to be taken back by the ex-husband!

Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled (after she slept with another man); for that is abomination before the Lord.[38]

They say, If a man put away his wife, and she go from him, and become another man's, shall he return unto her again? Shall not that land be greatly polluted?[39]

From this we can clearly see that a woman cannot return to her ex-husband after she had sex with another man – in this case, referring to Israel who worshipped other gods!

How can YHWH take Israel back – how is it possible as He cannot transgress his own Torah! That would make Him a sinner!!

The Great Mystery on how YHWH will Resolve the Issue

YHWH asked, "How shall I pardon thee, O Israel, for this?" through the Prophet Jeremiah:

How shall I pardon thee for this? Thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that are no gods: when I had fed them to the full, they then committed adultery, and assembled themselves by troops in the harlots' houses.[40]

Surprisingly, in the years to come it was only Sha’ul that was given the solution to this mammoth mystery from all the writers of the Books of the Bible (it is unbelievable to think that you still have people rejecting or grossly misinterpreting Sha’ul’s teachings):

And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,[41]

What is "the mystery of the gospel"? The mystery is, "How can YHWH remarry Israel after she "slept with" another man (worshiped other gods)?"

The answer to this Mysterious Mystery Locked Away for Ages

Sha’ul gives the answer to this great mystery in two of his letters:

For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law[42] to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law (Torah Instruction) of her husband.[43]

The wife is bound by the law[44] as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty (free) to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.[45]

Y’shua, the Husband, had to die to make the way open for the "lost sheep to come in"!!! Remember we said that the Torah requirement is that the husband must first die for the woman to be able to marry again. This is the core reason why YHWH had to die in the flesh! He loved Israel His Bride so much that He laid His own life down on that rugged old crucifixion stake! This is the greatest love story ever told!!!

This is the mammoth mystery Sha’ul spoke about and explained to the world. It is a love that overwhelms even the love of a parent who sacrifices everything to give their children a better life and greater opportunities than they had. We can understand a parent's sacrifice, but can we truly understand YHWH's? This love defies description and boggles the mind!!!

The Mystery Hidden for Ages

It is interesting to note that not even Jeremiah the Prophet knew how YHWH was going to solve this dilemma as YHWH’s own Torah policed Him; Jeremiah then asked the question in shear frustration how this problem would be solved.

They say, If a man put away his wife, and she go from him, and become another man's, shall he return unto her again? Shall not that land be greatly polluted?[46]

From all the writers in the Bible, Sha’ul was the one that was entrusted to make this mystery known! Why? Sha’ul was trained by Y’shua for three years at Mt. Sinai in Arabia where Moshe received YHWH’s Torah.[47]

according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,[48]

fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.[49]

Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints.[50]

Scripture has it that Sha’ul was called for the "Gentiles"[51]; but who were these "Gentiles", really?

Remember we said earlier in this teaching that the Hebrew word for "multitude of nations" is "melo ha'goyim" and literally means "the fullness of the nations". Viewing "multitude of nations" from a Grecian perspective, a Greek mindset and how Christians view it, it seems to mean: "Gentiles". By their interpretation, a Gentile is "of the nations" – meaning "not of the ONE nation Israel".

This is where satan has brought the highest level of deception to the masses, which directly opposes YHWH’s prophecy through the blessing of "Ephraim" by his father Jacob. You see it is Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes that will become a multitude of nations. It is the Ten Tribes that would be scattered abroad and be absorbed into the foreign countries in the years to come. This is what Sha’ul was called for, he was called as the Apostle for the Ten Tribes, those who once had a solid understanding of Torah; and he was the one called to teach them and help them to return.

This is what Y’shua also literally meant when He said "I have only come for the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel, the Lost Ten Tribes":

but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Isra'el.[52]

He said, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Isra'el."[53]

The great mystery then was the fact that Y’shua only came for the lost sheep of the House of Israel!

Where do Those not of the House of Israel fit in?

Y’shua spoke of them in Matt 15:21-28:

21 Then Y’shua went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. 22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. 23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. 24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. 26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread (House of Israel), and to cast it to dogs (heathen gentiles). 27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. 28 Then Y’shua answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

In this event, Y’shua said that He came to feed His "children", referring to the lost sheep of the House of Israel. The Canaanite woman is a gentile woman who was not part of the House of Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes. Y’shua at first blatantly ignored her and only after she seriously pursued Him, He allowed that she could eat of the crumbs. You see, any gentile is welcome to come to Y’shua; but the requirement for that is to come into the "covenant" of YHWH and then you are accepted as family in the House of Israel. (Read more about the "covenant" in Part 3 of the series "Christian Foundational Teachings".)

Why does Y’shua make His Disciples Fishers of Men?

Is it to go and find any heathen gentile and to make them Believers? Again, we come to a point where Scripture must interpret Scripture to understand Y’shua’s complicated words:

16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.17 And Y’shua said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. 18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.[54]

Immediately the question arises, "Why did they instantly drop everything and followed Y’shua without hesitation?" It is actually very simple, because the answer for that is, once again, in the Scripture:

13 Therefore will I cast you out of this land (scatter from Israel) into a land that ye know not (disperse you into the nations of the world), neither ye nor your fathers; and there shall ye serve other gods day and night (paganism in the world); where I will not shew you favour (as you are out of covenant). 16 Behold, I will send for many fishers, saith the Lord, and they shall fish them; and after will I send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain, and from every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks.[55]

These men that Y’shua called knew that when a Rabbi calls you to come and learn from him, you only have one opportunity. What makes this invitation even more exceptional is that this Rabbi Y’shua quoted from the Prophet Jeremiah who talks of "fishers that YHWH will raise up specifically to go and fish the Lost Ten Tribes, the House of Israel". They knew perfectly well that this prophecy must still come into fulfillment because the House of Israel were scattered abroad for the last 700 years, and they were honoured to be selected to become a part this prophecy! Wouldn’t you?

The Issue with the Pharisees

Y’shua is very clear who is a part of the House of Israel:

24 Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Messiah, tell us plainly. 25 Y’shua answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. 26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.[56]

It is important to know that Y’shua’s sheep listen to His voice (commands) and act on it, they follow Him in His ways; and there is only one way, which is the way of "the covenant"!

Peter was given a Commission

What did Y’shua ask Peter three times after His resurrection and then through that instructed him to do a specific task?

15 So when they had dined, Y’shua saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. 16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. 17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Y’shua saith unto him, Feed my sheep.[57]

Peter’s soul vision was to go and get Y’shua’s lost sheep of the House of Israel and to return them to the covenant of YHWH!

Peter is very specific to Whom he Wrote

We have never heard any Pastor preach accurately what Peter’s vision was after Y’shua instructed him.

Peter, an apostle of Y’shua Messiah, to the strangers scattered (Y’shua’s lost sheep) throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,[58]

At last, this verse which the church in general grossly mistranslates comes alive:

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: 10 Which in time past were not a people (Lo-Ammi), but are now the people of God (Ammi): which had not obtained mercy (Lo-Ruhamah), but now have obtained mercy (Ruhamah).[59]

Once again, it is NOT talking here of the general church, YHWH is talking about "His lost sheep of the House of Israel" who at last returned to YHWH and accepted His "covenant"! Peter is referring strictly to the first two chapters of Hosea and Isaiah 7:8: "and within threescore and five years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people".

How sad is it for Christians to take this verse way out of context to promote a dogma they feel is correct. No wonder satan is the master deceiver, as he deceives the very elect.

James (Ya’akov), Y’shua’s Brother, also Only wrote to the Lost Sheep

James (Ya’akov), a servant of God and of the Lord Y’shua the Messiah, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.[60]

Beloved Pastor, are you starting to see a picture here that Y’shua, Sha’ul, Peter, James, Matthew, Yochanan, Luke, Mark, etc. didn’t write to the "church"; no, they all wrote to Y’shua’s lost sheep of the House of Israel! Scripture cannot be denied.

Let’s put the Nail in the Coffin with Y’shua’s Words

Pastor, if you preach another gospel opposing Y’shua’s own words and of YHWH’s mysterious plan that was revealed to Sha’ul, then you have a problem. Listen to what Y’shua says:

5 These twelve Y’shua sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.[61]

It is about time we remove our western-minded caps and put our Jewish caps on, and accept that we have to use Jewish tools to interpret Scripture and immediately steer away from the abhorrence of Anti-Semitism which YHWH hates. Dispel the idea of planting western-type churches and making Christians – what we need to do is to come back into His covenant and become Believers of His Word and truths!  AMEN!

Even Sha’ul Wrote to the Lost Sheep of Israel

If you read Sha’ul’s letters to the Romans carefully, you will notice that he addresses two types of people: Jews who are the House of Judah (as the word "Jew" by definition is derived from "a decendent from the Tribe of Judah"), and "Gentiles"; which are actually the House of Israel absorbed into the nations. Let’s put the pieces together and start reading from Romans chapter 9:

24 Even us, whom he hath called, not of the Jews only (House of Judah), but also of the Gentiles (House of Israel)? 25 As he saith also in Osee (Hosea), I will call them my people (Ammi), which were not my people (Lo-Ammi); and her beloved, which was not beloved. 26 And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them (referring to Hosea 1 and 2), Ye are not my people (Lo-Ammi); there shall they be called the children of the living God. 27 Esaias also crieth concerning Israel (Northern Ten Tribes), Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea (multitudes according to Jacob’s blessing over Ephraim), a remnant shall be saved: (only those who returned to the covenant from the multitudes will be saved).

From the Scripture, we can deduce that only those who accept the "covenant" will be saved.

The Mystery of the Olive Tree of Romans in Chapter 11

Sha’ul continues from Romans chapters 9 to 11 with the same subject; but here in the chapters he narrows it down and concludes (or better, to reinforce what he said earlier), and this is the "mystery" revealed. He states here in chapter 11 that there is a time appointed in the future where the fullness of the House of Israel will come in:

25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery (of the gospel that is now being fulfilled), lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel (this is ordained by YHWH as she was unfaithful to Him), until the fulness of the Gentiles (rather the fullness of the "multitudes of nations", the House of Israel)be come in.26And so all Israel shall be saved (who feared YHWH and returned to His "covenant"): as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer (Messiah Y’shua), and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob (all Twelve Tribes): 27 For this is my covenant unto them (both the House of Judah and the House of Israel), when I shall take away their sins.

With this mystery being made known, Sha’ul tells us clearly that the Southern Kingdom and Northern Kingdom, the "Jew and Gentile", Judah and Israel (Ephraim) will be saved!

Now You Need to Make a Life-changing Decision

With all this information behind us and Y’shua’s words ringing in our ears, "I have only come for the lost sheep of the House of Israel", you have only two options now:

Accept you are Israel

Reject that you are Israel

The requirement

The requirements

1) Accept that Y’shua had to die as YHWH could not violate His own Torah

1) Y’shua did not die for me as He "only came for the lost sheep of the House of Israel"

Acknowledgement

Acknowledgement

2) His death is the only way so that YHWH could remarry me as part of the House of Israel

2) I cannot find any other Scripture to confirm that Y’shua came for Gentiles who are out of Covenant with YHWH; therefore I have a problem

3) This means that YHWH and Y’shua still hold the Instructions of Torah applicable even today

3) I reject the Law (Torah); therefore I also reject the Law that the husband had to die so that the wife could remarry, and therefore I indirectly reject my Saviour Y’shua who died for this very reason

4) Therefore I need to accept the "marriage covenant" which includes the Torah as YHWH allowed His Son to be brutally murdered instead of breaking His own Torah

4) I am "out of covenant" and not part of the House of Israel

5) Therefore Torah is not there for salvation, but to lead you to the "door Y’shua" who opened the way to heaven for me.

5) By my decision I therefore rebel against YHWH’s Instructions, His Word, and belittle Y’shua’s work on the crucifixion stake

6) Torah therefore is for correction, protection and to give me direction only, and cannot give me salvation by keeping YHWH’s Instructions.

6) YHWH, Y’shua, Sha’ul, Peter, James and the rest who explained the "great mystery of the gospel" do not know what they say; I follow my Church and Pastor!

7) YHWH I am grateful and forever indebted to You to open my eyes to the Ultimate Truth! Therefore, I now glorify Y’shua even more!!!

7) These Torah Truth Seekers just want to be like Jews; I will rather hang on to my Church and Pastor’s tradition; that will save me…

You see my Beloved Friend, we here at HRTI insist on sticking to our motto: We Inform, You Choose. We pray that you will make a wise decision as both have eternal rewards – meaning, you can book a smoking seat or you can book non-smoking seat for your eternity – you decide…

YHWH’s Encoded Two-House Message throughout Scripture

These Two Houses, the chosen people of YHWH, are encoded and woven carefully as a witness for us throughout the Scriptures…

         12 Tribes with one King

         12 Disciples with one Rabbi

         12 Baskets full of bread left over

         Matt 19:28: And Y’shua said to them, Truly I say to you, You who have followed Me in this world, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you also will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

         Y’shua heals a 12 year old girl

         He starts teaching in the Temple when He was 12

         12 Hours during each day (John 11:9)

         12 months in a year

         Woman (Israel) with the issue of blood for twelve years (unclean) not receiving healing, having to live outside the camp (Israel’s dispersion)

         12,000 Sealed from each tribe in Revelation

         12 Angels in Revelation

         24 Elders in Revelation

         12 Gates with 12 pearls

         12 Constellations in heaven

         A tree of life that produces 12 fruits for each of the 12 months in Revelation

         12 Spies into Canaan, 2 with good reports (Judah), 10 with bad reports (Israel)

         Story of Joseph

         Story of Ruth, Naomi, Boaz

         2 Witnesses in Revelation, one for each House

         10 commandments on 2 stones (12)... given twice

         Parable of the Prodigal son - 2 sons! One stayed in the house (Judah), one (Israel) lived amongst the pigs (in the world); only to return to the father’s house later

         The two sticks of Ezekiel 37 that became one

         The one new man in Ephesians 2

         Decendents of Shem (House of Judah) and decendents of Japheth (House of Israel) will “dwell in the tents of Shem” (Gen 9:24-27)

         And it goes on and on and on…

But the best allegory is portrayed in the event with Adam and Eve. Here we witness that Adam is one and that part of Adam was removed to make Eve, and then YHWH remarkably says that the two of them will become one! Let’s read it:

23 And the man said, This now at last is bone from my bones, and flesh from my flesh; For this shall be called Woman, because out of man this has been taken. 24 Therefore, a man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave to his wife and they shall become one (echad in Hebrew which literally means "one") flesh.[62]

You cannot deny it; YHWH reveals this "mystery of the gospel" not only in the New Covenant, but throughout the entire Bible! The Bible is one BIG wedding where YHWH purposely planned to bring Israel back and to marry her again!

Conclusion

There is only:

One YHWH (God)

One Messiah (Y’shua)

One Law (Covenant)

and

One People

One Body!

Make peace with it, you are ISRAEL.

What Covenant do I have to adhere to?

Introduction

Satan has crippled Christians for the last 1,700 years. He has masterly deceived and drew them into a black pit of obscurity, blurring their minds and distorting the fundamental truth that the entire Bible is not applicable anymore; i.e., that the "Law" has been done away with.

Christians in general do not use the Law (Torah in Hebrew, better known as Instructions from YHWH) as the "foundation" upon which to build their faith. For example, how many churches would take a newly converted sinner and begin to disciple him about sin, repentance from dead works, faith, the born-again experience, etc., from the Torah? See the point?

Most Messianic believers would mentally agree that the Torah is the foundation for understanding the rest of the TaNaCh[63] and the New Covenant Scriptures. Christians hardly ever build the foundation of their faith on the Torah, which is the only true Scriptural source for a "foundation". As with most Christians who were saved and discipled in the traditional church institution, the foundation of their faith was established using only the New Covenant Scriptures. Although the New Covenant Scriptures are God-breathed, they were never intended to be used to form the foundation of our belief-system.

The Torah alone should be the starting point for building a faith foundation after your rebirth in Y’shua the Messiah. The Torah is the foundational revelation about the nature of YHWH and His redemptive dealings with mankind. This teaching will obviously prove it based on Scripture. At this point, Satan will discourage you from reading further; you need to continue reading.

The New Covenant Scriptures are therefore a continuation of the Torah in that they complete (fill up) the revelation of the TaNaCh. How so? We must remember the Torah was a shadow and pattern of good things to come. All concepts and doctrines developed in the New Covenant Scriptures are "already revealed in the Torah"; albeit only as a shadow.

If your faith isn't based upon the foundation of the Torah, then you need to seriously consider studying the Torah diligently for yourself to see what YHWH’s Torah says. If your foundation is built predominantly upon Scriptures from the New Covenant alone, then you will have a less than ideal understanding of YHWH's Scriptures and His will for your life. This less than ideal understanding will exist because you will lack the proper foundational understanding to interpret the rest of the TaNaCh and New Covenant Scriptures correctly.

Bottom-line, it will be impossible to fully comprehend the New Covenant Scriptures without a proper foundation from the Torah. No wonder Y’shua said, "I have not come to destroy the Law (literally meaning, to incorrectly teach the Torah – thereby making it undone), I have come to fulfill the Law (literally meaning, "I have come to explain and interpret the Torah to you correctly")"[64]. Therefore, "everything" in the New Covenant Scriptures based on dogma is "clearly" founded in the Torah.

With that in mind, let’s start our journey…

Encouraging Notes:

1)     This teaching is not easy to hear – we understand that, but it is vital for your eternal life.

2)    Your Christian traditions will be used by Satan to argue against YHWH’s Scriptural truths.

3)    We at HRTI are passionate about your soul; therefore, we make it our mission to write scripturally sound teachings and Biblical truths.

4)    Researching is the process of elimination; whatever remains is the Truth, therefore "Study to show yourself approved unto YHWH, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth".[65]

The Time has come to Wake Up!

In the previous chapter, we clearly proved from the Scripture that you ARE "Israel". (If you haven’t read it, we strongly suggest you read it first). That means you are part of the commonwealth of Israel and the rules that apply to Israel also apply to you (Eph 2:12-13).

In this teaching, we will prove that all those who believe and follow Messiah Y’shua are instructed to "guard" the "Torah" and to walk as Messiah Y’shua walked "in Torah".

The time has arrived for Christians to "smell the roses", accept YHWH’s truths and obey Him. We also want to drive the point home that Y’shua did not come to start a new religion. No, He came to be the Saviour of an existing "nation". That nation is Israel. Therefore there can be no doubt, no questions and no debates about this truth!

With that behind us, let’s start with…

Three Main Beliefs about the "Law"

Christianity holds three views concerning the interpretation of what Law is:

1)     The Law is the Torah and consists of all 613 Mitzvot[66] (the Law can also include the entire Old Covenant instructions).

2)    The Law only means the Ten Commandments and everywhere you read about the word Law in the New Covenant it refers to the Ten Commandments only.

3)    Law means NT laws only – this means Christ’s laws. Christ’s laws consist of only two laws; or better, Two Commandments; and those two (love God and love your neighbor) nullify all the Laws from the Old Covenant.

What is the Law?

Let’s look at the meaning of the above three points by definition:

1)     The Torah, which is the 613 Instructions in the first five Books of the Bible, is only for the correction, protection and direction of the Believer. Torah cannot save you, period. It was given to guide you in your Walk with the Messiah Y’shua after salvation, and not at all about obtaining salvation. That means the works of Torah cannot save you; you do the works of Torah freely and willingly after you have come to salvation because you love YHWH and Y’shua, period.

2)    The Ten Commandments appear twice in the Hebrew Bible – in the Books of Exodus and Deuteronomy. In Exodus, YHWH inscribed them on two stone tablets, which He gave to Moshe on Mount Sinai. The Ten Commandments are calledעשרת הדברים (transliterated Asereth ha-D'bharîm); and in Rabbinical Hebrewעשרת הדברות (transliterated Asereth ha-Dibroth), are translatable as "the ten words", "the ten sayings" or "the ten matters". Never was it called Torah. YHWH uses a different word for it rather than Torah to make a clear distinction between the two. The Ten Commandments are found in the Torah; in fact, the Ten Commandments are a summary of the 613 Instructions of the Torah.

3)    The Two Commandments do not replace the 613 Commandments of the Torah; this is not at all what Y’shua taught. From a Grecian-western perspective, that is what Pastors will teach you and what Christianity believes; but from a Hebrew perspective (Y’shua’s perspective), it is merely a further summary of the 613 Commandments and the core and foundational pillars of the Torah. These Two Commandments are mentioned in Luke 10:27. To understand this concept from a Hebraic perspective, read what is said below...

Understanding the Torah-tree and its Structures

The Torah-tree consists of Roots, Trunk, Branches and Fruit. The entire tree gets its nourishment from the Roots, which is Y’shua. Everything starts with Y’shua and He is the One giving life. This won’t be explained as it is universally accepted. The fruit is the end product and Y’shua referred to this when He said: "You will be known by your fruit"[67]. This Fruit is Torah-life!

A. The Two Laws of "Christ" (the Trunk)

The Two Laws quoted by Y’shua: "Thou shalt love YHWH thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself" are the very foundational pillars on which all of YHWH’s Instructions rest. The two pillars are mentioned in the heart of the Torah:

Deut 6:5: Love YHWH your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

Lev 19:18: "'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am YHWH.

These are the very essence and core of YHWH’s principles – love YHWH and love your neighbour – nothing more, nothing less. The heart of the Torah is therefore summarized by Y’shua, and that is LOVE!

This means that if you do these two Laws you will automatically do the Seven Noahide Laws…

B. The Noahide Code[68] (the bigger branches from the trunk)

The Seven Laws of Noah (Hebrew:שבע מצוות בני נח‎ Sheva mitzvot B'nei Noach) is a set of moral rules that were given by YHWH as a binding set of Laws for the "children of Noah" – that is, all of humankind. Note that this was given years before Moshe received the Written Torah at Mount Sinai.

The seven Laws are:

1)     Prohibition of Idolatry (Love YHWH / do not worship other gods).

2)    Prohibition of Murder (Love your neighbour / then you will not harm him)

3)    Prohibition of Theft (Love you neigbour / then you will not steal from him)

4)    Prohibition of Sexual immorality (Love you neighbour / don’t cheat or use a person to satisfy your lusts)

5)    Prohibition of Blasphemy (Love YHWH / you will not use His name in vain)

6)    Prohibition of eating flesh taken from an animal while it is still alive (Love YHWH / respect for YHWH’s creation and stay away from paganism)

7)    Establishment of courts of law (Love your neighbour / adhere to fairness)

The Noahide Laws are regarded as the way through which non-Jews can have a direct and meaningful relationship with YHWH; or at least comply with the minimal requisites of civilization and of Divine Law. This, of course, is again just a summary of the Ten Commandments. More detail is added in the Ten Commandments.

C. The Ten Commandments (the smaller branches from the "big branches")

Again, The Ten Commandments are a summary of the Torah; the 613 Instructions. The Ten Commandments are found in Exod 20:2-17 and Deut 5:6-21.

The Ten Commandments are prohibitions (except for Commandments Four[69] and Five[70]). These Ten Laws define negatively the heart of the covenant relationship between YHWH and Israel. The first four Commandments are related to one's relationship with YHWH. The next six Commandments have to do with human relationships (six being the number of man). It is important to note that right relationships with others follow being rightly related to YHWH. Being rightly related to YHWH compels one towards right relationships to one's neighbours. Here one can see the wonderful balance that is maintained in the Ten Commandments. Meaning, duties to YHWH and to other human beings are not separated.

The Ten Commandments were not only given to the Hebrew people, but are abiding Laws for all people; all who would like to come into the commonwealth of Israel. Some of the Torah Instructions of the Bible seem to apply only to specific times, places, and persons; but the Ten Commandments have an abiding quality about them. They convey duties for everyone and reveal to us the basic morality required by YHWH. While the Ten Commandments have universal validity, they are truly significant only when persons are committed to the Elohim behind them. What makes the Ten Commandments unique is the character of the Elohim who gave them. Without YHWH, the Commandments lose their distinctiveness.

These Ten Commandments, therefore, are basic policy statements for life in a covenant community with YHWH; and these Ten Commandments are a summary of all of YHWH’s 613 Instructions in the Torah.

D. The 613 Torah Instructions (the fruit from the "smaller branches")

YHWH gave the entire package in the Torah and explains the Ten Commandments in great detail so that no believer will have an excuse as to say: "I did not know what YHWH really expected of me". As said, His Instructions were given to correct me, to protect me, and to give me direction; obviously, to enable me to live a righteous and holy life that is acceptable to YHWH.

The etymology of the word Torah is Hebrew and is most frequently translated as "law" in the Old Covenant. Torah is used more than 200 times. Torah in the Old Covenant came to mean "the way of life for faithful Israelites". The Torah is more than just "laws"; it includes the story of YHWH's dealing with His people, Israel.

The concept of Torah is linked to that of "covenant". The covenant agreement between YHWH and His people at Mount Sinai provided the foundation for all of Israel's Laws. YHWH, the Deliverer of the Israelites from Egypt, set forth His instructions for His people. They were to obey YHWH's laws because of what He had done for them in saving them from Egypt[71]. The Laws found in Exodus, Deuteronomy, Numbers, and Leviticus cover all areas of community life. The Torah is therefore a gift and absolute blessing of YHWH to His people to improve life, and not to diminish it! Obeying the Torah would always result in His blessing[72]. Following the Law would provide for the health and wholeness of the covenant community.

These Laws often begin with an "if" or a "when" and usually deal with very specific situations. Many times they indicate a punishment for breaking the law[73] which we will see clearly in this teaching.

To sum it up in a nutshell, the 613 Torah Instructions are the fruit by which you will be recognized:

Psalm 1:1-3 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the Torah of YHWH; and in his Torah doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Bottom-line: Following the Torah Instructions is the result of salvation, and results in an abundance of blessings! It is our fruit!

Our Concern

The more we study, the more we realize that we HAVE to keep the Torah and that we have misunderstood Scripture all along.

This teaching is something that is very near to our hearts, and something we desire every believer to hear. In fact, it is imperative that every person read this booklet.

You need to understand clearly that there are a few reasons why the "Law" has been grossly misunderstood. Sha’ul’s letters and Acts chapter 10 and 15 are but a few of the main reasons why we misunderstood the Scriptures concerning the Law. Sha’ul’s letters are EXTREMELY DIFFICULT to understand and Peter seriously warned us about it…

Sha’ul’s Letters

Peter warned of Christians and Pastors beforehand that they would misinterpret Sha’ul’s letters, and that even Pastors will twist Sha’ul’s letters to follow a doctrine that goes against what YHWH and Y’shua taught! Today, this is rampant in just about every Christian denomination globally!

2 Peter 3:15-17: 15 Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. 16 He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort (or twist), as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction (because they do not follow the Torah). 17 Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away (swept into a hellish doctrine) by the error of the lawless (a Torahless doctrine) and fall from your secure position (that ancient teachings, to follow the Torah).

Paul knew the TaNaCh better than most people. He studied under the great teacher Gamaliel and then later under Y’shua Himself, as explained in booklet No 2. Sha’ul was a master at Torah and wrote from the point that all his readers are fully acquainted with the Written Torah as YHWH gave Moshe at Mount Sinai, as well as Oral Torah (literature explaining the Written Torah) – as interpreted by the Jewish Sages of old.

Sha’ul, in fact, refers to five different references to "law" in his letters; and if you do not know the Torah and the Old Covenant, you will surely formulate false doctrines from his letters!

Peter warned us to not twist Sha’ul’s letters to support a doctrine of "lawlessness".

So, be very careful when you use Sha’ul’s letters to support a doctrine that cannot be supported by YHWH’s Torah. If you do this, know that you simply haven’t arrived at the "truth".

(Watch THIS short video about Law and Grace called "Law and Grace for Dummies" at link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSO7G0JLTIE&feature=fvwrel . It will clearly show you how easy it is to understand the Law and Grace, and how they work together).

We need to Walk as Y’shua did

The beloved Yochanan (John), the one that laid on Y’shua’s bosom, instructs us:

1 John 2:6: Whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he (Y’shua) walked.

The Question is then: how did Y’shua walk?

He was a Jew, right? Absolutely!

How did the Jews live? Did they follow the "way" their ancestors did? Absolutely! We proved this already

Did He keep the commandments (the Torah)? Absolutely! We proved this also.

Did He live in a Jewish cultural environment? Of course He did. He lived in Israel and among His brethren, speaking Hebrew, studying the Torah and the TaNaCh celebrating like a Jew, and living like a Jew!

Why the Need for the Torah?

It must clearly be understood that:

The Law = Good Works/Actions = the Torah

The "Works of the Torah" are the "good works" that we do. These works cannot earn salvation. We keep the Torah as fruit of salvation, not the root of salvation. Meaning you do Torah after salvation because you love YHWH and Y’shua. Every sin is connected to an action, and all the do’s and don’ts are actions mentioned in the Torah which must be adhered to.

What does YHWH’s Word say is Sin?

Scripture must define Scripture and to know what sin is, can only be defined by Scripture:

1 John 3:4: (NIV) Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.

1 Johnn 3:4: (KJV) Whosoever commits sin transgresses also the law (Torah): for sin is the transgression of the law.

Facts derived from the verse (ponder on each fact for a moment):

1)     If you practice sin, then you practice lawlessness…

2)    Sin is lawlessness; sin is Torah-lessness…

3)    If you commit sin, then you transgress one (or more) of the 613 instructions of YHWH in the Torah...

4)    Sin IS transgressing (disobedience of) any one (or more) of the 613 Laws of YHWH in the Torah…

5)    Sin can only be identified if there is a law; in this case, YHWH’s Torah...

6)    Sin is not doing or adhering to any Torah Instruction of YHWH and thereby you rebel against YHWH’s Word, and that is witchcraft[74]…

The Three Groups of Believers in Scripture

Beloved friend, you need to know that there are only three groups of believers in Scripture, and each person must categorize him/herself in one of these three groups…

1) Those Great in the Kingdom of God:

Matt 5:19: Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments (Torah Instructions), and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do (a verb, an action) and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Let’s move on and see what the Torah says:

Num 15:22-29: 22 And if ye have erred, and not observed all these commandments, which YHWH hath spoken unto Moses, 23 Even all that YHWH hath commanded you by the hand of Moses, from the day that YHWH commanded Moses, and henceforward among your generations; 24 Then it shall be, if ought be committed by ignorance without the knowledge of the congregation, that all the congregation shall offer one young bullock for a burnt offering, for a sweet savour unto YHWH, with his meat offering, and his drink offering, according to the manner, and one kid of the goats for a sin offering. 25 And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them; for it is ignorance: and they shall bring their offering, a sacrifice made by fire unto YHWH, and their sin offering before YHWH, for their ignorance: 26 And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and the stranger that sojourneth among them; seeing all the people were in ignorance. 27 And if any soul sin through ignorance, then he shall bring a she goat of the first year for a sin offering. 28 And the priest shall make an atonement for the soul that sinneth ignorantly, when he sinneth by ignorance before YHWH, to make an atonement for him; and it shall be forgiven him. 29 Ye shall have ONE LAW for him that sinneth through ignorance, both for him that is born among the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among them.

2) Those Least in the Kingdom of God:

Cited Matt 5:19 Num 15:22-29 as above.

3) Those Rejected from the Kingdom of God:

There are three places found in Scripture which explains the group that is rejected: Matt 7:21-23, Heb 10:26-31 and Num 15:30-31.

We’ll look at Matt 7:21-23 later in the teaching. For now, let’s start by focusing on Heb 10:26-31...

What are Ignorant Sin and Willful Sin according to the Bible?

There are two main groups of sin in the Bible and they are classed as Ignorant Sin and Willful Sin.

Matt 5:19: Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Ignorant Sin means you honestly did not know it was a sin because you have never come to the realization that you need to keep the Torah as only the Torah identifies sin. This is Ignorant Sin and the Pastor teaching this will be in the kingdom of Heaven (Group 2), but he/she will be called the least in the kingdom of Heaven. Obviously, you need to correct him/her by emailing him/her this range of booklets (freely available in PDF format on our Website www.hrti.co.za).

Intentional Sin, also known as Willful Sin[75], is different; and should scare the "Hell" out of a person!

Heb 10:26-31: 26 For if we go on sinning (breaking the Torah[76]) deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth (know what the Torah says), there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins(Note: The Torah from Lev 1-7 describes all the offerings. All of them are for ignorant sin, not for willful sin. There was NEVER a sacrifice for willful sin. Willful sin requires repentance, not sacrifice. This is what David did when he sinned willfully by using his power to seduce Bathsheba while her husband was at war on King David's behalf. When she was found to be with his child, David arranged for her husband Uriah to be killed in battle to cover up the matter. David was an adulterer and a murderer through willful sin. He could not bring an offering, because it wouldn’t have helped. He had to repent in order to be forgiven. Let’s now read it again from verse 26).

26 For if we go on sinning (breaking the Torah) deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth (knowing what the Torah says), there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries (Group 3 will partake of this – condemned to the lake of fire). 28 Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses (Torah) dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. 29 How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one (A) who has spurned the Son of God, and has (B) profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has (C) outraged the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know him who said, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay." And again, "The Lord will judge his people." 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Three things are distinctly mentioned here, which those who sin willfully do to YHWH:

(A) They spurn (or trample on) the Son of Elohim

(B) They profane the blood of the covenant

(C) They outrage the Spirit of grace

Now, this will play around with your Theology… Y’shua fulfilled all the offerings and sacrifices in the Torah, correct? Yes, that’s true. But if that’s true, where was the offering or sacrifice for willful sin? As we have already seen in the Scriptures and proven in this teaching, this then means that Y’shua (the Sacrifice) could not be hung on His crucifixion stake (the altar) for willful sin as there is simply no Offering for Willful Sin. Y’shua died for ignorant sin and therefore fulfilled all the offerings. All of them have to do with ignorance only. If you willfully sin, you need to repent as David did and stop doing the sin, period!

Let’s now have a look at willful sin from the Torah itself – Num 15:30-31:

30 But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously (willfully), whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth (reprimand, blames, disgrace) YHWH; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. 31 Because he hath despised the word of YHWH (rebellion), and hath broken his commandment (Torah), that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him.

You see, once we heard the knowledge of the truth – in other words, when sin has been revealed to us and we keep on sinning and we do not repent, that person (Group 3 person) will condemn him/herself to the lake of fire because of his/her willful sin!

The "Impossible" Gospel

There is a Gospel, the "true Gospel" that is unbreakable and unchangeable: this is YHWH’s Gospel, and it is cast in concrete. And then there is the gospel that the majority of Christianity believes in. This is what I’d like to call, "The Impossible Gospel". The following three reasons will explain why:

1) Reason No. 1: You cannot add or take away from the Torah:

Deut 4:2: You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments (Torah) of YHWH your God that I command you.[77]

We can also translate this verse as follows…

You shall not CHANGE the word that I command you, that you may EXECUTE the commandments (Torah) of YHWH your God that I command you.

This first point implies that Y’shua and all the apostles would’ve been bound by this law. They could not add to nor take away from the Torah.

2) Reason No. 2: You must test it to see if it is the truth, and it cannot lead you astray or into rebellion:

Deut 13:1-3, 5: 1 If a prophet or a dreamer of dreams arises among you and gives you a sign or a wonder, 2 and the sign or wonder that he tells you comes to pass, and if he says, 'Let us go after other gods,' which you have not known, 'and let us serve them,' 3 you shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams. 4 For YHWH your God is testing you, to know whether you love YHWH your God with all your heart and with all your soul. 5 But that prophet or that dreamer of dreams shall be put to death, because he has taught rebellion against YHWH your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt and redeemed you out of the house of slavery, to make you leave the way in which YHWH your God commanded you to walk (the Torah way). So you shall purge the evil from your midst.[78]

Point number two explains to us clearly that if a person, Pastor, Prophet, or Teacher leads the nation astray (away from YHWH’s ways), the prophet has to be stoned and is classified as a false Prophet or Teacher.

So what is "The Way" – meaning the only "correct way"? Again, Scripture (YHWH’s own words) gives us the defining answer; not man’s opinion:

Prov 6:23: For the commandment (Torah) is a lamp; and the law (Torah) is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:

YHWH’s Torah is not the way of death, but the way of LIFE! Torah is designed to improve, bless, protect and to enhance life significantly – wow! Ultimately, Torah is YHWH’s instructions in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16).

This means you must test every single thing against the Torah; the Torah is the only measuring stick that can and should be used for correct doctrine. Any teaching, saying, preaching, even an interpretation of scripture contradicting the Torah, is false. This obviously makes the one teaching it a false prophet (proved above) and liar (proven later), and that is YHWH’s standard.

3) Reason No. 3: YHWH and Y’shua cannot change[79]

Let’s ask the question, "Is YHWH random and changes things without informing His followers, us?" also "Can Elohim do anything without letting the Prophets know; i.e., that His Son will do away with the Law?"

Amos 3:7: For the Lord YHWH does nothing without revealing his secret to his servants the prophets.

No, He cannot. YHWH clearly tells us He will do nothing unless He reveals and declares it to His Prophets. If YHWH wanted His Son to die so that we can now eat pork, surely He would have made it known and distinctly told us as much. No, there is not one single verse that says the Torah would be done away with – not one single prophesy. The problem is man’s grossly incorrect interpretation of the Word that steers Christians away from the Torah! And these incorrect interpretations stem from a lack of knowledge of Torah!

Point number three proves to us that something was planned, and not part of a misinterpretation. If YHWH prophesies that something will happen, then we know that it must happen. However, if it is not prophesied, then we must also know that it will not happen.

As a Christian, please answer these questions: "Is Y’shua without Sin?" Is it at all possible that Y’shua could sin? The answer is obvious that Y’shua is sinless and cannot sin at all, not even in the smallest matter. Now follow this argument to see where Christianity is flawed concerning the Torah:

Matt 26:59-61: 59 Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking false testimony against Y’shua that they might put him to death (because they could not find any sin or reason to kill him), 60 but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came forward 61 and said, “This man said, 'I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to rebuild it in three days.'"

So here we clearly see, they could not find anything Y’shua did, to be wrong. Y’shua was therefore without sin; so much so that they had to call in false witnesses to condemn Him. Remember, their country’s laws were Torah. They judged Y’shua based on the Torah, as they have always done. Surely if He taught rebellion against the Torah of YHWH, they wouldn’t need to call in false witnesses!

For a moment, let’s get back to the question, "What is sin?" We saw clearly from Scripture that "sin is the transgression of the law". Meaning, we can all agree that Y’shua did not transgress the Law.

By reasoning and intellectual comprehension, it is clear that Y’shua then never broke any one of the Commandments of the Law. That means He guarded every single Commandment of the Law! Let us give you an example:

Y’shua was before Caiaphas and He did not want to speak[80]. Caiaphas commanded Him: "I adjure you to speak!" All of a sudden Y’shua began to speak, why?

Matthew tells us how Caiaphas put Y’shua on solemn oath, and used the oath of testimony saying:

Matt 26:63: I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Messiah, the Son of God.

Such an adjuration was understood to render an answer legally necessary, despite the fact that it was illegal to do this trial for life. By Law Y’shua had to reply:

Lev 5:1: If any person refuses to give the information which, as a witness of something he has seen or learned, he has been adjured to give, and thus commits a sin and has guilt to bear.

In this case, silence would have been by itself an admission of guilt. Another fact is if Y’shua did not speak here, He would have broken a Law which then in turn would have made Him a sinner.

Summary of "The Impossible Gospel"

The foundation of the impossible Gospel is as follows:

1)     Was the Torah changed?

       You cannot CHANGE the Law (Torah).

       If somebody changes it, that person must be stoned.

       It must be revealed first by a Prophet such as in the Old Covenant before YHWH can change it, and Y’shua the Prophet did not change it.

2)    Can Y’shua teach that the Torah is no longer applicable? YHWH says the Torah is FOREVER, and forever means FOREVER.

       If He did, He would’ve been stoned.

       It would not have been "false witnesses" that condemned Y’shua, but true witnesses.

3)    It was NEVER revealed that the Torah would come to an end; in fact, we see the complete opposite.

         Jeremiah chapter 31 talks about a New (Renewed) Covenant that will be made, but the New Covenant includes the Law: " But this shall be the covenant, that I will make with the house of Israel, After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law (Torah) in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they shall be my people." (Verse 31).

         Ezekiel 38 and 39 deals with the Battle of Gog and Magog as well as with the Battle of Armageddon at the end of the Tribulation Period. Chapters 40-48 deal distinctly with the “Olam Haba” (the Millennial Reign of Y’shua) – the Thousand Years of Peace. Ezekiel in chapters 40-48 gives great detail how Y’shua will then reign in His Kingdom on earth. In these chapters, we see Temple sacrifices being restored (for celebrations and food for the Priests), Levites and Cohanim (Priests) resuming their responsibilities in the Rebuilt Temple, everything only according to the Torah. If the Law has been done away with, why would YHWH restore it again? No, the Law has never been done away with. Christians have been blinded by Satan from YHWH’s very truths.

Conclusion

The basis of the "Impossible Gospel" is: "if Y’shua taught against the Torah, then He would have been disqualified as the Messiah and would’ve been a false messiah". The majority of Christianity believes in a messiah that cannot possibly exist. It’s a messiah that broke the law, by changing it, while it was not prophesied to happen. It is a messiah that was a sinner, since he broke the Torah.

So, we either accept both the Torah AND the Messiah, or reject both the Torah AND the Messiah.

Y’shua could not teach against Torah; the same goes for ANY other Scripture author, period.

Food for thought

If you could prove that Y’shua taught:

  that circumcision of the flesh should no longer be observed,

  you would not be proving that circumcision should not be observed,

  you would only prove that Y’shua is a false prophet and that He was NOT the prophesied Messiah of Israel.

  The same applies for any other Commandment which Y’shua explained.

  Then any other Scripture author which promoted the Torah must be classed as a false prophet, as well.

By the deducing the facts, we should really stop this teaching right here. This is really the conclusion of the matter. Any argument, debate, and opinion with regards to the Torah and its validity for today can be solved with this argument. This factual information, based on sound Scriptural interpretation, should settle all reasoning and prove undoubtedly that we should keep Torah.

Grossly Misinterpreted Scriptures

We will now take you through the very verses from the New Covenant that Christians use as proof that the Law has been done away with. Please put your spiritual seatbelt on, as this ride could get bumpy!

Argument 1: Y’shua didn’t do away with the law, nor taught it. He fulfilled the Law (Matt 5:17-18)

Now, some say that Y’shua didn’t do away with the Torah. He did not come to "destroy/abolish" it, but "fulfilled" it. Let’s look at this argument and see if it holds water.

There are two important words to look at in Matt 5:17; "abolish" and "fulfill"

Think not that I am come to destroy (abolish) the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy (abolish), but to fulfill.

The word "fulfill" is the Greek word pleroo and have various meanings:

  to make full, to fill up; i.e., to fill to the full, or

  to fill to the top: so that nothing shall be wanting, to full measure, to fill to the brim, or

  to fully preach*.

Abolish means to do away with or to put an end to. Fulfill according to Christians also means to do away with or to put an end to, exactly as Y’shua fulfilled the Law.

But looking carefully at Y’shua’s words, He said He came to do the one (fulfill) and not the other (destroy/abolish), therefore they cannot mean the same thing.

What does destroy/abolish mean, and what does fulfill mean? Can they both end up having the same meaning and producing the same result?

Let’s start at where else we find the Greek word pleroo ("fulfill"):

Rom 15:19: in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit; so that from Jerusalem and round about as far as Illyricum I have fully preached (pleroo) the gospel of Messiah.

If pleroo (fulfill) means to "stop doing", are we now to stop preaching the Gospel; as Sha’ul (Paul) has fully done it and need no further action? Can’t be, right? The next verse…

Rom 15:13: Now the God of hope fill (pleroo) you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

If YHWH has filled you with all joy in believing in Y’shua on a specific day, do you now stop having joy the next day and for the rest of your life? You see the argument from a Christian perspective; the Greco-western perspective is totally flawed. Let’s now move on to what Y’shua actually said…

The words that Y’shua used: "Think not that I am come to destroy (abolish) the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy (abolish), but to fulfill" is a typical Hebrew idiom and can never be understood if you do not use the correct tools of interpretation, the "Hebrew tools".

It is interesting to note that Rabbis still use this idiom to this very day when they instruct their disciples. The Hebrew idiom is: "You must fulfill the Torah", or: "Do not destroy the Torah".

The Hebrew perspective, the correct tools for interpretation on Y’shua’s words: "Do not destroy the Torah" literally means, "do not misinterpret/ misrepresent/teach the Torah incorrectly". Wow, what a renewal of thought!

"You must fulfill the Torah", on the other hand literally means, "to interpret/represent/teach the Torah correctly".

So here we can clearly see that abolish or fulfill didn’t have anything remotely to do with destroying the Torah or not destroying it. It merely said that Y’shua came to interpret and represent His Father’s Torah to us correctly; or even to fully preach it* – perfectly tailored with pleroo.

Now, consider Y’shua’s pleroo word when you read what He says in the next verse:

Matt 5:18: For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law (Torah), till all be fulfilled.

Another translation gives a more literal meaning:

18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.

The question is: "Is heaven and earth still here?" Well, if it is, not one stroke of a pen, not the smallest letter will change/disappear from the Law.

Till all things are accomplished refers to heaven and earth disappearing, as seen in Revelation chapter 21. Heaven and earth is still here; that means again… that we should stop this teaching right here defending Y’shua’s words, but let’s give you some more facts.

Argument 2: The Least and the Greatest in the Kingdom (continue with Matt 5:19)

This next verse continues on the subject of keeping the Torah and has caused numerous erroneous interpretations.

Matt 5:19: Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

What is the least commandment?

Deut 22:6-7: 6 If a bird's nest chance to be before thee in the way in any tree, or on the ground, whether they be young ones, or eggs, and the dam sitting upon the young, or upon the eggs, thou shalt not take the dam with the young: 7 But thou shalt in any wise let the dam go, and take the young to thee; that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days

This is self-explanatory and nearly insignificant in the eye of the general person. But Y’shua says that the Christian or Pastor who breaks one of the least of the commandments, the smallest and minutest of His Instructions in the Torah, and teaches others so, will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.

You see, my Beloved Friend, many have been grossly deceived by the master deceiver – satan himself! We have been taught by the Pastors and Leaders in Ministry that the Law doesn’t apply anymore. They have been deceived by satan to give clever ways past these Scriptures. It is all inherited lies through man’s traditions[81].

Inherited lies!

YHWH used the Prophet Jeremiah to give us a clear picture how corrupt the Christian Church will become:

Jer 16:19: O YHWH, my strength and my stronghold, my refuge in the day of trouble, to you shall the nations come from the ends of the earth and say: "Our fathers have inherited nothing but lies, worthless things in which there is no profit".

Jeremiah said that people will eventually come to the conclusion in the end of days (just before Y’shua’s return) that they have been taught worthless things and that they have inherited nothing but lies. What is your position now: accept or rebel? You have to make a decision.

Y’shua said the very same words as Jeremiah:

Mark 7:13: Thus you nullify the word of God (destroy the truth) by your tradition that you have handed down (from your fathers). And you do many things like that

YHWH instructs us that there is only "one way"; one correct path, and that is the path which He laid down in the beginning:

Jer 6:16: Thus says YHWH: "Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, 'We will not walk in it.'

Yip, the Torah road brings life in abundance if you stay on this path. The Apocryphal book of Jubilees gives the same wisdom and actually predicts this point in time – the return to Torah!

Jubilees 23:26: And in those days, the children shall begin to study the laws and to seek the commandments and to return to the paths of righteousness.

That brings us to the point: what is righteousness…

Argument 3: What is Righteousness, according to YHWH (continue with Matt 5:20)?

Men have had heated debates on what YHWH’s standard for righteousness is (only His Word can define it); but let’s start with the  Pharisees’ Righteousness:

20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Questions: Did the Pharisees teach the Law? Did they keep the Law?

Almost all Christians say yes, blaming the Pharisees as "bad" because they kept the Law; let’s see...

Mark 7:18: 1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed (not in Torah to wash hands). 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands, holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, "Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?" (Here we see clearly that this is speaking of TRADITION, not TORAH, in other words, the Commandments of men!) 6 And he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, "'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; 7 in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' 8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men."

What happened here is that they have put much more emphasis on the traditions of their fathers (the Oral Law) instead of adhering to the Torah (the Written Word of YHWH to Moshe). This is really about commandments and doctrines of men versus the commandments and doctrines of YHWH.

Now what is good doctrine?

Prov 4:2: For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law.

What the Pharisees did is exactly the same as what Pastors and Christians do – REJECTING the Commandments of YHWH, but all the while accepting the traditions of men! Let’s continue with Mark chapter 7:

9 And he said to them, "You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, 'Honor your father and your mother'; and, 'Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.' 11 But you say, 'If a man tells his father or his mother, "Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban"' (that is, given to God)—12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

Isn’t this the same today? The 38,000 churches keeping the traditions of men and forsaking the Commandments of YHWH? We willingly keep all kinds of pagan holidays, while not keeping YHWH’s festivals. Man even changed YHWH’s Sabbath from the Biblical seventh day of the week to the pagan “Day of the Sun” Sunday observance, right from the RCC[82] church!

When Y’shua says, "For Moses said" (verse 10), He means as it is in the written Torah, the Written Law. When Y’shua says "But you say", He means the Commandments of Men.

So, this is what the Pharisees taught. Therefore, we need to know what "exceeding the righteousness of the Pharisees" mean.

How do we exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees, and what is righteousness?

1 John 3:7: Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right (do Torah) is righteous, just as he is righteous.

What is righteousness of YHWH?

         Torah (For Moses says)

What is the righteousness of the Pharisees?

         Hypocrisy (But you say)

In Mark chapter 7, Y’shua gives the contrast between the way to life and the way to death. That means that we must exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees, and that clearly is to keep the Torah.

There is, in other words, only one way to walk and that is in the "Old Commandments" that was given:

1 John 2:1-7: 1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Y’shua Hamashiach the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says "I know him" but does not keep his commandments (the Torah) is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this (Torah observance) we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. 7 Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an old commandment (Torah) that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard.

This is also Law and Grace working together par excellence. The Law is there to identify when we sin; but then YHWH’s Grace comes through His Son who makes atonement for our sins, as He became the fulfillment of the Offering. This means Law and Grace have always worked together; in fact, it was always Grace first and then the Law. YHWH first saved the Israelites from Egypt (Grace) and then He gave the Law at Mount Sinai. Also, after repentance, grace is a gift from YHWH as you start to study the Torah.

This means that the Law was never designed as a legalistic set of rules; no, the Law (indirect grace) is there to protect and direct you, always.

Yacov (James), Y’shua’s half-brother, makes this profound statement that sums up the above-mentioned neatly. Remember, your salvation, your Faith in Y’shua can only come by Grace from YHWH:

James 2:18-26: 18 But someone will say, "You have faith (Salvation/Grace) and I have works (Law/Torah)." Show me your faith (Salvation/Grace) apart from (without) your works (Law/Torah), and I will show you my faith (Salvation/Grace) by my works (Law/Torah). 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith (Salvation/Grace) apart from works (Law/Torah) is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works (as explained above – Egypt), and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed (faith in) God, and it was counted to him as righteousness"—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works (Law/Torah) and not by faith (Salvation/Grace) alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works (Law/Torah) when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith (Salvation/Grace) apart from works (Law/Torah) is dead.

We can clearly see that these works are the good works of Torah (in fact, James states this in chapter 1:25) – and that it is faith AND works that justifies a man, not either/or. This is YHWH’s righteousness that is required.

Argument 4: The Adulterous Woman (John 8:3-11)

Many Christians use this passage as an argument that the Law has been done away with or changed by Y’shua into a law of love and grace and forgiveness. But is it really the case?

John 8:3-6: 3 The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst 4 they said to him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. 5 Now in the Law Moses (Torah) commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" 6 This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Y’shua bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground.

We must note that Y’shua could have written a number of things, all carrying weight of the matter:

1)     He could’ve written all their own sins; but this doesn’t really make sense, since their sins would not admonish her from hers.

2)    He could have written that Rome ruled; and as such, the Sanhedrin had no jurisdiction to put anyone to death. After all, He was crucified according to the Roman way and not according to the Jewish way (stoning), correct?

It is a complex issue of what really was discussed here. According to the Torah, both a fornicator and an adulteress must be killed. The Pharisees, however, came to trap Y’shua to accuse Him of something more serious than most Christians read on the surface. There are basically two problems according to Halacha[83]:

       If Y’shua meant to say to the Pharisees that the one without sin may cast the first stone, then He would have added to the Torah and contradicted the Torah, as the Torah says nobody is without sin.

       If it is understood that Y’shua told the woman that she is without sin, then He would have reduced the Torah; as the Torah says nobody is without sin and He clearly told her "sin no more".

In other words, Y’shua would have violated the Torah twice, which of course He did not do. In the Oral Tradition it states clearly that if Israel is not a sovereign state—meaning have full rulership by its own—then her leaders are not allowed to give the death sentence. This, then, means if Y’shua forgave the woman her sin, He would have violated the Torah. If He allowed the woman to be stoned, He would have violated the law of the land and the Roman authorities would have held Him accountable. In other words, the Pharisees came to Y’shua with this "trap".

The solution to this very complex issue is what Y’shua wrote in the sand. What Y’shua wrote in the ground is the explanation of Torah and Roman authority issue. What follows next is what Y’shua told them—and this is even more important. What He said is "he that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone at her". With this, He exposed them to the Torah which states clearly that all are sinners. This could be the reason why they later turned around and walked away.

But He wrote in the ground twice. He also could have told them that the law of the land requires that no Israelite be allowed to give the death sentence. In other words, Y’shua cleverly argued against this and did not violate any Torah or the Civil Law. The punch line is what Y’shua said next: "Neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more". What Y’shua was actually saying is, "I do not sentence you, either; as I cannot break the Torah or go against the Civil Law, but go now and make sure you do not do those sins anymore". Also, Jewish law recognizes the "law of the land" in these matters; so that if the law of the land has greater restrictions, then they will also apply.

Most likely, the answer would be the following:

3)    The Torah clearly prohibits adultery in the seventh of the Ten Commandments.

The Torah defines in Lev 20:10: "If a man commits adultery with the wife of his neighbor, both the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death."

Again, the Torah in Deut 22:22 defines adultery as sexual relations between a married woman and a man other than her husband. Both are guilty, and the penalty is death by stoning according to the Torah.

Y’shua then asks them: John 8:7 And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her." 8 And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground.

As Y’shua is YHWH and the Torah manifested in flesh, Y’shua wrote the Law that BOTH should have been brought to be stoned. Where is the man? The legal procedural requirements were also very exact and required the testimony of two witnesses of good character[84] for conviction.

He wrote the second time in Lev 5:1, "If anyone sins in that he hears a public adjuration to testify, and though he is a witness, whether he has seen or come to know the matter, yet does not speak, he shall bear his iniquity;"

The Law that says if you are a witness of a crime and you do not report it (meaning bring both of them as they were "caught in the act") and you keep quiet, then you are just as guilty as the Torah says and that you, as witness, must then be killed.

What happened next confirms that they found themselves in an awkward position: 9 But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Y’shua was left alone with the woman standing before him. 10 Y’shua stood up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" (Meaning where are those that came to condemn you as witnesses?) 11 She said, "No one, Lord." And Y’shua said, "Neither do I condemn you (as He could not, because by the Torah you need at least two witnesses); go, and from now on sin no more." (He acknowledges that she indeed did this sin but even He could not violate the Torah by condemning her).

There are also other ideas and opinions as well, as to what Y’shua wrote. We believe He wrote the Laws that say that you must take them both to the elders at the gates, and make your case in the court.

Bottom-line, however, since Rome was ruling at this time and the Sanhedrin did not have the authority to stone people any more. This clearly shows that Y’shua complied fully with the Torah and the law of the land. This incident with the woman in fact proves that Y’shua upheld the Law firmly; He preached it to its fullness and did not do away with it as Christians explain with their watered-down opinions.

Argument 5: Peter’s Vision on the Roof (Acts chapter 10)

This is the most referred passage in the New Covenant that states that Y’shua has done away with the dietary Laws after His resurrection and that we can now eat anything from pig, dog to reptiles…

9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray (noon, lunchtime). 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him (YHWH): "Rise, Peter; kill and eat." 14 But Peter said, "By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean." 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, "What God has made clean, do not call common." 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven. 17 Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon's house, stood at the gate

Ok, so here we see that Peter CLEARLY did not know what this vision meant, in fact he was distressed! Why was this vision such a mystery to him?

Surely Elohim was telling him to eat unclean meats? It is clear from this passage that YHWH now gave Peter the okay to eat anything! Or is it?

Let’s bring this whole incident in Acts chapter 10 in perspective by suggesting a modern-day version of this vision:

You see a machine gun on a white sheet

and a bunch of children on it.

You hear a voice saying: “Rise, shoot and kill”.

If YHWH commands you THREE TIMES in a direct instruction, would you blatantly ignore Him? Well Peter did exactly that! Peter was not rebellious at all.

You need to understand that the dietary laws of Leviticus 11 were such a big part of his life and that he, in his wildest dreams, would never ever even "think" to slaughter a pig and to eat it, because this is what he heard! It was unfathomable to him, that YHWH would EVER say something such as this. Peter was at this point perplexed and all shaken up.

Peter and the Disciples were grounded in the Torah and sat for years at Y’shua’s feet listening painstakingly at His teachings and following their Rabbi’s way. He also set the example for them to not eat anything unclean. On top of that, this was only 10 YEARS after Y’shua’s death and resurrection and Y’shua’s lifestyle was still vividly remembered in Peter’s life.

So why did Peter refuse? Peter was testing the vision according to Deut 13, to see whether it was of Elohim or not. It could not contradict Torah! YHWH would never, ever instruct Peter to do anything that violates His own rules, the Torah. Think about that.

Could Y’shua, or would Y’shua after His resurrection, all of a sudden just randomly change His Father’s rules, the Torah?  Could He just decide to abolish them? Or, are YHWH and Y’shua both schizophrenic and totally confused? No, not at all!!! Again, it boils down to interpretation through context.

What was Acts chapter 10 all about? Well, we as Hebrew Rooted people insist that Scripture explains Scripture and do not listen to "man’s" opinions; for that you apply the golden rule, "keep on reading". The answer is in verse 28 and so easy any child could understand it:

28 And he (YHWH) said to them, "You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I (Peter) should not call any person common or unclean.

How Christians can twist YHWH’s Word to promote eating a pig, a scavenger that YHWH created to clean the earth and which was never, ever classified as "food", is beyond our thinking capacity.

But let’s continue – Acts chapter 11 undoubtedly confirms this mysterious vision of Peter. Thus, the crux of the matter is that YHWH did NOT talk about pork but about man, as chapter 11 confirms that this is not about “food”. Peter tells this story to the council, and does not mention food at all.

In conclusion, Peter’s vision has nothing at all to do with food.

Argument 6: The Jerusalem Council (Acts chapter 15)

If there is one chapter that Pastors take out of context, then it is Acts chapter 15. There is a tremendous amount of confusion about this event.

To start with, please take note that there are two groups of people in this "court case":

1. Verse 1: A group that holds to "salvation by works".

2. Verse 5: A group that says you "keep the Torah regardless".

It is important to know that verses 1 and 2 occur in Galatia. Men from Judea (group 1, verse 1), the province around Jerusalem, came to Galatia and taught the Assembly. Their teachings caused a division in the Assembly, after which they sent Paul and Barnabas to go to Jerusalem to find an answer to this question about salvation by works from the elders and apostles. Let’s investigate this section and see what really happened:

1 But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers (in Galatia), "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved." (This is Group 1) 2 And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them (a heated debate), Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. 3 So, being sent on their way by the church (Church of Galatia), they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.

These "men from Judea" (verse 1) were the same group of men that taught the brethren in Galatians chapter 2 and the whole issue revolves around the conversion of the pagan Gentiles.

4 When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.

Now, at this point, Paul and Barnabas also mentioned this question of salvation by works. This was part of the things that Elohim had done with them. Let’s continue.

5 But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, "It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses." (This is Group 2)

After hearing the two sides, the Apostles and Elders then gathered together to consider this court case, and provide a verdict.

6 The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. 7 And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, "Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. 8 And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, 9 and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith. 10 Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke (The yoke was a Rabbi’s teaching. The disciple would follow a certain Rabbi’s teachings, meaning he will take on the Rabbi’s yoke) on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? (why do you put a rabbinical teaching on this group that is too difficult to do – keeping the Law for salvation) 11 But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Y’shua, just as they will." 12 And all the assembly fell silent, and they listened to Barnabas and Paul as they related what signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles. What yoke was this? Keeping the law for salvation. 13 After they finished speaking, James (Yakov) replied, "Brothers, listen to me. 19 Therefore my judgment is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, 20 but should write to them to abstain from (A) the things polluted by idols, and from (B) sexual immorality, and from (C) what has been strangled, and from (D) blood. 21 For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues."

Yakov showed why he was looked to as the lead apostle because he understood the matter, and was able to state an opinion that concluded the matter in a good way. He states that the new converts should abstain from four things (idolatry, sexual immorality, strangled [or unclean] meats, and blood); and that they should be allowed into the synagogues after this, so they could hear the Torah of Moshe – which was read aloud in the synagogues each week since ancient times. Meaning, if those with the Spirit would just begin with these four things, then eventually they would learn to keep the rest of the Torah over time.

Verse 21 is never quoted – and everyone who quotes Acts 15, stops the quote at verse 20. However, this makes perfect sense since it would be a completely overwhelming experience to receive a list of 613 Laws – and being told that you have to keep them from that moment onward. Remember, these Gentiles didn’t grow up in a Torah-observant lifestyle. The same would happen to you if you were in this position. No, James suggested that they start off with a foundation and then study the Torah at a more manageable pace (every Sabbath in the Synagogues).

These four things are the points of departure after salvation, to start your journey on the ancient path to study Torah.

From what we saw here in these various arguments is that Y’shua and the rest of the authors upheld the Torah. Torah was not done away with; the problem lies with the interpretation of the Scripture. Scripture is taken out of context to promote a dogma that is not based on YHWH’s biblical truths, either ignorantly or otherwise.

Will we keep the Torah in the Millennial Reign and Thereafter?

Scripture says it all:

Rev 12:17: Then the dragon became furious with the woman and went off to make war on the rest of her offspring, on those who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Y’shua.

Rev 14:12: Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Y’shua.

Rev 22:14: Blessed are they that do (a verb) his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

Makes you think, doesn’t it? What if you still refuse to keep the Torah, where will your destiny be?

The New Covenant

Are you under the new (renewed) covenant? And what are the conditions for a new covenant? Who is the new covenant made with?

Jer 31:31-34: 31 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: 32 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the Lord: 33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the Lord, I will put my law (Torah) in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts (true Believers will live and eat the Torah); and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.

Come on! There is only One Law for YHWH, His Torah! Beloved Friend take note, this passage is taken from the Old Covenant and there is no other Law. This means if you want to be under the New (Renewed) Covenant, you need to have the Torah written on your heart; and you need to have the Spirit of Elohim that will teach you to keep the Torah (Ezek 34).

What the General Church is busy with today

Ezekiel the Prophet prophesies:

Ezek 22:23-28: 23 And the word of the Lord (direct from YHWH) came to me: 24 "Son of man, say to her, You are a land that is not cleansed or rained upon in the day of indignation. 25 The conspiracy of her prophets (Rev 17) in her midst is like a roaring lion tearing the prey; they have devoured human lives (steering Christians away from the Torah); they (the church) have taken treasure and precious things (mega churches greedy for money); they have made many widows in her midst. 26 Her priests have done violence to my law (Torah) and have profaned my holy things. They have made no distinction between the holy and the common, neither have they taught the difference between the unclean and the clean, and they have disregarded my Sabbaths, so that I (YHWH) am profaned among them. 27 Her princes in her midst are like wolves tearing the prey, shedding blood, destroying lives to get dishonest gain (preaching a "Name it, Claim it, and Frame it" Gospel – all for financial gain and thereby teaching no truth, destroying Christians). 28 And her prophets have smeared whitewash for them (approved these deeds), seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, 'Thus says the Lord God,' when the Lord has not spoken.

HRTI’s staff has been around – we come from different backgrounds and denominations; we have seen it all and talk from experience. Here we see that priests, prophets and princes are stealing their congregations’ finances, violating YHWH’s Law, not teaching the difference between holy and common, unclean and clean, desecrating the Sabbaths, prophesying false visions – and approving of all this in YHWH’s name!!!

How does your church measure up to this?

Now for the Shocking Reality

Take a deep breath and listen to what came directly from Y’shua’s own mouth. He reinforces what YHWH said through Ezekiel. These are His words and His standards for the church leaders of today:

Matt 7:15-23: 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits (the Torah tree). Are grapes gathered from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire (Hell). 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits (the church leaders by their Torah fruit). 21 "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does (a verb) the will (Torah) of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' 23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of TORAH-lessness.'

Beloved Friend, do you sit in a church where your Pastor teaches that the Law has been done away with or that it is not applicable anymore? Then you have two choices:

1)     Inform the Pastor of his erroneous doctrine and help him by giving him the truth (these booklets for free). If he does not want to hear, run as fast as you can out of that church and get to a place where the truth is taught – but you cannot sit in that church without telling him the truth and reason, “I will stay here just for "peace sake".” Why can’t you? Because the Torah says in Lev 5:1 that if you know a brother errs, you need to hold him accountable and bring the truth to the table (read also Ezek 3:17-21). Or, you can

2)    Stay in the church and keep on disregarding YHWH’s Torah; then you have a major problem. Your tithings are a total waste as YHWH won’t accept it (meaning you sow in vain), your teachings that you get are from a liar as per YHWH’s standard – 1 John 2:4: "He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments (Torah), is a liar, and the truth is not in him".

The Torah Protestor’s Prayer

If you are still protesting against the Torah, then consider Prov 28:9:

He that turns away his ear from hearing the law,

even his prayer shall be abomination.

And Y’shua said the same in John 9:31:

We know that God does not listen to sinners,

(willful sinners against Torah)

but if anyone is a worshipper of God and does his will, God listens to him.

Conclusion

Make sure you journey down the old, ancient way and check in at 613 Torah Street…

The Argument for Keeping the Torah (Law)

as YHWH’s Uncompromising Guidelines of Holy Living

Introduction

Many Christians are asking the question: "Can one follow the Torah (Law) fully today? Are we under the Torah (Law) today, or grace? Must Christians adhere to the full Law?" They continue to make statements like this:

"The answer to this, of course, is no. There is no temple, no sacrifices, no Cohen Gadol (High Priest), no Levites (priesthood), and so forth. There are Scriptures that indicate that if one does not obey the whole law, leaving out nothing, then he is guilty of breaking the entire law."

This is the argument by many Christians to prove that we cannot keep the Law; they normally quote the following verses:

For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law.[85]

For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.[86]

This causes many Christians to say, "We have nothing to do with the Law anymore and therefore are not under the Law". Yip, you have heard the argument and it makes perfect sense based on these two verses only; but they are unfortunately taken out of context.

They say Sha’ul (Paul) wrote this to the Jews and Gentiles in Galatians and Yakov (James)[87] to the twelve Tribes of Israel to make the point clear that we cannot keep the Law. The question is, what part of the Law do Sha’ul and Yakov discuss here?

What is the Torah

You must first understand how the Old Covenant was put together in order to understand the concept of Torah (better known as the Instructions from YHWH[88]) and what Rabbi Sha’ul and Yakov discussed.

The Old Covenant is known as the TaNaCh in Hebrew. TaNaCh is a Hebrew acronym[89] for Torah, Nevi’im and Chetuvim.

The Five Books written by Moshe (Moses) is known as the Torah[90] in the TaNaCh. Nevi’im is the Hebrew for Prophets, and they are the collected Books of the Prophets or the Prophetic Books. Chetuvim (Hebrew for the Writings) are the remaining Books; the sayings and the historical Books. In other words, the TaNaCh is the entire Old Covenant; what the Hebrews call the Hebrew Bible.

The purpose of TaNaCh is as different as its parts: the Torah (meaning teaching/instruction), is YHWH’s plan on how to live life (in book form_– in order for YHWH to bless us). The Torah is the Believer’s Life Manual. Nevi’im represents the blood, sweat and tears of the Prophets’ leadership over a period of 920 years, beginning with Samuel and ending with Ezra. Though the last Prophet died long ago, their prophecies still apply today. While many of their prophecies were immediately applicable, many are about Messiah Y’shua. The Moshiach[91] is the most fundamental Jewish belief.

Chetuvim are the collected writings of Moshe (Book of Job), King David (Psalms) and Solomon (Proverbs, the Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes), the Prophets Samuel (the Scroll of Ruth), Jeremiah (the Scroll of Lamentations); and Daniel (the Book of Daniel) as well as the Men of the Great Assembly (the Scroll of Esther).

Listed below are the Books of the TaNaCh with their Hebrew names:

The Torah (Teachings or Instruction from YHWH)

a)

Bereishit

(Hebrew "In the beginning" – Anglicized name for Genesis is "creation")

b)

Sh’mot

(Hebrew "Names" – Anglicized name is Exodus meaning "departure")

c)

Vayikra

(Hebrew "He called" – Anglicized name is Leviticus meaning Levites)

d)

B’dmidbar

(Hebrew "In the wilderness" – Anglicized name Numbers mean Numbers)

e)

Devarim

(Hebrew "Things" – Anglicized name Deuteronomy mean "second word")

The Nevi’im (Consisting of the Major Prophets and the Twelve Minor Prophets)

Yehoshua

(Joshua)

Shoftim

(Judges)

Shmuel

(Samuel I & II)

Melachim

(Kings I & II)

Yeshayah

(Isaiah)

Yirmiyah

(Jeremiah)

Yechezkel

(Ezekiel)

Trey Asar

(“The Twelve”, treated as one book)

1)

Hoshea

(Hosea)

2)

Yoel

(Joel)

3)

Amus

(Amos)

4)

Ovadyah

(Obadiah)

5)

Yonah

(Jonah)

6)

Michah

(Micah)

7)

Nachum

(Nahum)

8)

Chavakuk

(Habakkuk)

9)

Tzefanyah

(Zephaniah)

10)

Chagai

(Haggai)

11)

Zecharyah

(Zechariah)

12)

Malachi

(Malachi)

The Chetuvim (Writings)

a)

Tehillim

(Psalms)

b)

Mishlei

(Proverbs)

c)

Iyov

(Job)

d)

Shir HaShirim

(Song of Songs)

e)

Rut

(Ruth)

f)

Eichah

(Lamentations)

g)

Kohelet

(Ecclesiastes)

h)

Ester

(Esther)

i)

Daniel

(Daniel)

j)

Ezra &

(Ezra)

k)

Nechemyah

(Nehemiah, treated as one book)

l)

Divrei Hayamim

(Chronicles I & II)

According to the Rabbis, there are two Torahs: the Written Torah and the Oral Torah. The Written Torah is what YHWH gave to Moshe on Mount Sinai. The Oral Torah is the interpretation of the Written Torah with man’s perceptions and ideas on how to understand and live the Written Torah. This is also the tradition of the Hebrew people most of the time.  There is some good insight of the Oral Torah, but the Oral Law can never supersede YHWH’s Written Torah. YHWH outright forbids adding anything to the Written Torah:

Deut 4:2: Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of YHWH your God which I command you.

Deut 12:32: What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.

Prov 30:6: Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Now, the Written Torah consists of the Five Books in the TaNaCh that Moshe wrote. The Oral Torah consists of additional instructions passed down orally from generation to generation. The Rabbis understand the Written Torah as YHWH's expressed will and the Oral Torah as the detailed instructions of how to fulfill that expressed will; which of course we do not follow.

After the destruction of the Second Temple, Rabbi Yehudah HaNassi (Judah the Prince) began to collect, sift, arrange, classify and edit the great body of Oral Torah into a basic compendium of authoritative Torah Law called the Mishnah. Over succeeding generations as Rabbis continued their study of the Oral Torah, a tradition of commentary and explanation began to grow. This expanding mass of material was called the Gemara in Aramaic (meaning 'study') and became an object of study in its own right. . Both the Mishnah and Gemara were combined into a single document and called the Talmud – meaning 'to study' in Hebrew. The Talmud is divided into six parts in which there are various tractates on different topical areas. Today, there are only thirty-seven of the original sixty tractates of the Babylonian Talmud (Bavli) and thirty-nine of the original sixty-three tractates of the Jerusalem Talmud (Yerushalmi). Kariate[92] Jews only believe in the Written Torah and not the Oral Torah; we at HRTI have the same view.

Getting back to the Written Torah, there are 613 Commandments in the Written Torah. These 613 commandments list what is required, permitted, and forbidden by YHWH; and range from activity of the layperson in everyday life to the strict procedures followed by the High Priest. The 613 commandments are codified and divided into 248 positive and 365 negative Laws. It is interesting to note that there are 365 negative commandments corresponding to the 365 days of the year; one commandment for each day. There are also 365 ligaments, veins, and tendons in the body and 248 limbs and organs in your body. (According to various Midrashim[93], the 248 positives correspond to the limbs in the human body and the 365 equals the sinews and nerves. The fulfillment of each mitzvah brings life and vitality to the particular part of the body to which it corresponds[94].)

Therefore, the Jews do not take the Psalmist lightly when he wrote "And my soul shall be joyful in YHWH: it shall rejoice in his salvation. All my bones shall say, YHWH, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?"[95] This is the reason why the Hebrew reels back and forth during worship; every part in their body is moved into worship! (Bones is etsem in Hebrew, but also includes the entire outer body that you see.)

Therefore, the Torah of Moshe is a series of instructions given to Israel to help them to live holy lives. Within the core of the Mosaic Law (Moshe’s Law) was the sacrificial system – evidence that YHWH knew Israel would not be able to keep the Torah; therefore, the sacrificial system declares YHWH's grace and His willingness to forgive the sins of His people.

The Torah consists of three groups:

    the Sacrificial (also known as the Ceremonial or Rituals),

    the Moral (also known as the Ethical), and

    the Civil (also known as the Judicial or Governmental) section.

These sections will be expounded in more detail later.

Further, the Torah was originally designed (as is still applicable today) ONLY for correction, protection and direction; and cannot give you salvation at all! Torah is built on the foundational teachings for Correction/Protection/Direction and designed for the Believer. With that as the background, let us summarize before we continue:

The Three Groups of Torah

The Sacrificial Section

There is a distinction (but not Scriptural) between the three kinds of 'Laws' in the Old Covenant. The first kind is the 'Sacrificial Laws' – also known as the Ceremonial or Ritual Laws. These are the laws governing the Temple worship and the way we are to approach YHWH. They have to do with the layout of the Temple, the purification process a person was subjected to and the sacrificial system.

Today, each offering and sacrifice in the Torah is a shadow / type of Messiah Y’shua and His work on the crucifixion stake. It is there to remind us of His perfect work on the stake. We see that the Priests will once again occupy the Temple in the Millennial Reign, keeping YHWH’s Word, His charge and His judgments. We see that they will even sacrifice again (Ezek 40-48).

Y’shua said that not a single point, stripe, or apostrophe will disappear (or change) from the Torah, until heaven and earth pass away (Matt 5:17-19). This is exactly where you are not allowed to add or take away from the Word, according to the words in Deut 4:2 and 12:36.

We even see that Sha’ul in the Book of Acts takes a vow (most likely the vow of the Nazarite, which we read about in Numbers 6); not once, but twice – to show that he lives a life according to Torah. As a part of this vow, Num 6:12 says that this person must sacrifice to YHWH. If we were no longer to sacrifice due to abolishing the sacrifices, why would Sha’ul sacrifice twice to YHWH after Y’shua died on the crucifixion stake? Therefore, no sacrifices have been abolished. We do not do them right now because there is no Temple.

In the Millennial Reign, everything is once again the way it was in Moshe’s day; and this confirms Y’shua’s words in Matthew 5. Nothing changes when it comes to the Torah of YHWH since the Torah is a part of who He is (John 1:1-3) and He cannot change (Mal 3:6).

As said, sacrifices will definitely continue in the Millennial Reign when Y’shua rules from Jerusalem after He rebuilt the Temple. Ezekiel chapter 40 to 48 distinctly tells us that sacrifices during this time are going to be offered. These sacrifices will not be for the remission of sin, but for:

       celebrations for what Y’shua did for the Believers

       reminders what Y’shua did for the Believers, and

       food for the Priests doing their Temple cycle duties.

If there were a Temple today, we would therefore have sacrificed for these reasons.

The Civil Section

The second type are 'Civil Laws' – also known as the Judicial or Governmental Laws. They are the natural laws imbedded in nature which we adhere to. For example, women’s bloodflowing every twenty-eight days, the land must rest every seven years, etc. But they are also about taxes, charging interest, punishing certain sins by stoning to death. But this last group of Laws are only applicable if there is a Torah-observant government ruling, which is obviously not the case anywhere on the planet today. So what do we do?

When Sha’ul wrote to Titus, he said we must adhere to the authorities who rule over us as the law of the land supersedes Torah: "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work."[96] Unless the earthy government laws contradict the Laws of YHWH (Acts 5:29).

A perfect example of this is illustrated in the proposed stoning of the woman in John chapter 8. Y’shua could not allow her to be stoned according to the Jewish death penalty as the Roman government was ruling and He would have violated the law of the land.

In summary, the Civil / Judicial / Governmental Torah teachings and instructions are still applicable to the Believer today!

The Moral Section

The third kind are the Moral Laws, also known as the Ethical Laws. The Ten Commandments fall into this category. These Laws are also still in effect because they are a reflection of YHWH’s moral character; and that did not change, nor ever will. The Moral Section of the Torah deals with issues such as, "Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a whore"[97], and "Neither shalt thou steal"[98], etc.

This Section of Torah remains firmly in place today and there is no Scriptural information from the New Covenant that we are now allowed to break any part of the Moral Torah Section!

The Two Pillars

As said, there are three types of biblical precepts: ceremonial, civil, and moral. It is extremely important to note that YHWH had the Sacrificial, Civil and the Moral Laws in force even before the Torah formally was given to Moshe at Mount Sinai! According to Jewish tradition, Adam and Eve sacrificed in the Garden of Eden. Cain and Abel sacrificed to YHWH; Noah did as well; and so did Abraham; all way before Moshe was even born.

However, the Civil and Moral precepts, respectively, are part of the law of nature; i.e., you must rest on the Shabbat (seventh day). The land must rest every seventh year and of the character of YHWH; i.e., to murder or prostitute your daughter, is forbidden.

But, did YHWH establish three different kinds of Laws in the Old Covenant? It is interesting to note that no place is given in Scripture where the terms Ceremonial, Moral, and Civil Laws are found; but that they are there is factual. The bottom-line is that it is extremely difficult to divide the Torah into these three categories.

There are 613 Commandments in the Torah of Moshe. They are divided into 248 Affirmative Laws and 365 Negative Laws. Moses Margoliouth was one of the translators of the English Revised Version and published a catalogue of the 613 Commandments in English in 1743.

It is also common to divide the Mosaic Law into three other sections:

1)      the Ten Commandments (often called the heart of the Moral Law),

2)      the ordinances, and

3)      the judgments.

The Ordinances are the laws governing Israel’s religious life while the Judgments are the Civil Laws. These divisions are sometimes helpful for analysis and study, but actually have no Scriptural authority. Many of Israel’s Laws would belong in two of the suggested divisions. For example, the law of the tithe is both religious and civil. The Ten Commandments have a prominent place in the Torah, but Y’shua still taught that the greatest commandment was not one of the Ten. A summary is given below of the Greatest Commandment of the Torah.. Each of the 613 Laws, however, is classified into the two areas above.

The entire Torah, however, is wrapped up in Two Commandments:

"Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Y’shua said unto him, 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."[99].

Why, because the heart of the Torah is Love and Grace!!!

Christians: Law from Moses and Grace from "Jesus"

Christians use this verse consistently to state that "Jesus’ grace replaced Moses’ Law".

John 1:17: For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Y’shua the Messiah.

Christians proudly throw this verse at you; but there is only one problem: the word "but" in italics was not in the original text – no, it was added by the translators and changed the entire concept. This is how it is better translated:

John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, grace and truth came by Y’shua the Messiah.

YHWH used Moshe to give His instructions and then He used His Son Moshiach to explain them, grace and truth are in the Torah and when Moshiach came it was not new.

Now follow YHWH’s rules on Grace:

#1) Sin = Transgression of the Torah (I John 3:4)

#2) The soul that sins (disobeys Torah) shall die (Ezek 18:4, Rom 6:23)

#3) The curse for disobeying Torah is death (Deut 27:26, 28:15, 45)

#4) Forgiveness for disobeying Torah is NOT deserved. It is the grace/mercy of YHWH to do so (Exod 34:6)

#5) Y’shua showed us this grace/mercy of the Torah by forgiving us of our sin (Matt 9:6)

#6) We are forgiven of our sin when we confess our sin (I John 1:9)

#7) The blood of Messiah cleanses us from sin (1 John 1:7, Eph 1:7, Col 1:14)

#8) The Torah is truth (Psalm 119:142, 151)

#9) YHWH shows grace/mercy to those that seek to keep His commandments (Exod 20:6, Psalm 103:17-18, John 14:15)

Exod 34:6 also tells us that YHWH is merciful and gracious: "And YHWH passed by before him, and proclaimed, YHWH, YHWH God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,"

How is YHWH merciful and gracious? Let us read it again and drop the "but".

John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, grace and truth came by Y’shua Messiah.

This verse actually tells us that Moshe indeed delivered the Torah to the nation of Israel, but Messiah Y’shua shows us the grace (love, compassion, mercy, forgiveness of sins) and truth (how to live a Torah life-style) of the Torah.

With that in mind, let’s see how the Torah is Grace…

The Law is Grace

Unification of Believers has been difficult to maintain because of the enmity that exists between Torah-observant Believers and Believers who believe that grace has replaced the Torah. During the time of the Apostles, this enmity did not exist primarily because all followers of the true Messiah Y’shua were in harmony in their belief. It wasn’t until the rise of the pagans Constantine, Marcion and their Roman Catholic Beast Church system in the third century was there a fundamental change in belief and growing hostility towards the Netsarim (Nazarenes), called The Way.

First century Believers believed that Torah observance was compatible with grace. As a result, first century Believers united in one belief. When the early messianic community grew to a larger number of non-Jews than Jews, the division between Torah-observant Believers and non-Torah-observant Believers also grew. Pagan influences began infiltrating congregations and diminishing the value of the Torah. What had started as unity between Torah-observance and grace declined into disunity.

In 321 C.E., Constantine realized that a disunited religion does not function effectively. Therefore, Constantine decided to unify Christianity under his authority. Pagan Emperor Constantine never allowed the teachings of the Apostles. Instead, Constantine decided to create a new religion that did not appear to have any link to the Torah. To distance the new religion from the Torah, Constantine first declared Sunday "a day of rest". This the Roman Catholic Church openly admits as in this letter addressed to Pope Pius XII...

Pope XII answered J.L. Day in The Catholic Extension Magazine to make a statement that the Roman Catholic Church changed it and that the Protestants who protested against the Roman Catholic Church are ridiculing themselves, as they still follow the Roman Catholic’s pagan ruling of destroying the real Sabbath of YHWH:

They continue with blatant blasphemy to say that the Roman Catholic Church has more power than YHWH’s Word and that they have the power and can overrule YHWH:

But let’s get back to Constantine… In 325 C.E., Constantine's next action was to assemble The Nicaean Council. The Nicaean Council's mission was to formulate standard practices for Christians. One change The Nicaean Council made was to exalt Sunday as the official day of worship[100].

Constantine's actions diminished the authority of the Torah in many Christian congregations. Sunday began to replace the Shabbat as the day of rest and the day of worship. Constantine's actions created a rift between Torah-observant Believers and the apostates who were not. Today, the fruit of what Constantine started is seen. For example, many individuals believe that Torah-observance and grace are incompatible.

In Va’etchanan,[101] we can clearly see that YHWH's plan is for the Torah and grace to be compatible. In fact, Va'etchanan exemplifies how the Torah is an extension of grace. Therefore, the Torah has the attributes of grace, which are love, salvation, and unity.

The Torah is an extension of YHWH's grace because it demonstrates YHWH's love for humanity. For example, Israel’s deliverance from Egypt was not because they were strong or because they earned deliverance. YHWH delivered His people from Egyptian bondage as an act of love. Therefore, deliverance from Egypt is an extension of grace.

Now, because deliverance from Egypt is an extension of grace, YHWH expects His people to be grateful. The best way to show this gratitude is through obedience. Deut 7:9-11 states, "YHWH did not set his love on you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because YHWH loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath YHWH brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that YHWH thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keeps covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations".

Y’shua likewise also expects His followers to demonstrate their love for Him through obedience. John 14:21 states, "He that has my commandments, and keeps them, he it is that loves me: and he that loves me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."

In Both the New Covenant and in the Torah, keeping the commandments of YHWH is taught as an outward expression of our love for Him. This outward expression allows us to manifest Y’shua and the Father to the world. The Torah is an extension of grace because it allows us to manifest the love of YHWH to the world through our obedience.

The Torah is an extension of YHWH's grace because it links to salvation. Deut 6:24 states, "YHWH commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear YHWH our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day."

Therefore, living a Torah lifestyle is for our physical welfare. Observing YHWH's Commandments protects us from the problems of the world. Deut 28:45 states, "Moreover all these curses shall come on you, and shall pursue you, and overtake you, till you are destroyed; because you listened not to the voice of YHWH your God, to keep his commandments and his statutes which he commanded thee". Torah observance gave Israel the promise that they would be secure from the plagues and the curses that the ungodly nations experienced.

Besides the physical benefit of Torah observance, Y’shua linked Torah observance with eternal reward. Matt 5:18-19 states, "verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." The Torah is an extension of grace because it gives us salvation and provides us with the hope that obedience brings eternal reward.

The Torah is an extension of YHWH's grace because it unifies Believers. The Torah brings unity to the body through the creation of a standard set of rules. Deut 6:25 states, "it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before YHWH our God, as he hath commanded us." The Torah is our guide for righteous living.

Therefore, the Torah taught humanity about sin. Sha’ul addresses this issue in Rom 7:6-7, which states, "now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, You shalt not covet." Sha’ul had understood that the purpose of the Torah is to reveal sin. Once sin is revealed, the Ruach HaKodesh helps us deal with the sin. When the Torah is not a guide to reveal sin, people establish their own guidelines for sin. Constantine, The Nicaean Council and many so-called believers have made this mistake.

Without the Torah as a godly standard, there is no uniform understanding of sin. For example, Constantine and The Nicaean Council declared Sunday as a day of rest and as the day of worship. Therefore, Sunday worship replaced Shabbat observance...Without the authority of the Torah, replacing the Shabbat with Sunday became acceptable. The Torah is an extension of YHWH's grace because it unifies all believers under one set of rules. Therefore, all people are accountable to the same godly standard.

The Torah teaches us the attributes of YHWH's grace through examples of love, salvation, and unity. The Torah exemplifies YHWH's love for humanity and allows us to manifest His love to others. The Torah brings salvation to YHWH's people by physical protection and the hope that obedience brings eternal reward. The Torah unifies believers under one set of rules. Therefore, the Torah gives believers a definitive knowledge of what YHWH considers sin. YHWH's desire is to place the Torah in our hearts so that we will understand His grace through the love, salvation, and unity that the Torah manifests.

All Believers should strive to become Torah-observant and demonstrate to the world that living a Torah-observant life is compatible with grace. When this occurs, the world will know that YHWH truly is dwelling in the hearts of His people.

We prefer Torah-observant Grace, do you?

Conclusion

When Christians first start to realize the implications of this (to follow and live Torah), the initial reaction is to be repulsed by the specter of legalism. Many thought that observing the Old Covenant Laws would rob a person of the joys of their "Christian life"; and that anyone who chose such a lifestyle would soon become repulsive to others.

The fallacy of such thinking slowly became obvious as the Believer realized that all of the Bible authors and heroes from Moshe to Sha’ul had honoured the Torah without being legalistic. Y’shua Himself observed the Torah perfectly, while teaching emphatically against legalism and drawing crowds of ardent Torah followers.

It is sad to see that the Christianity that has been handed down to us from the time of Constantine contains a countless number of subtly-ingrained prejudices against the Torah, against the Jews themselves and a payload of paganism in their churches and teachings.  The time to personally examine those prejudices in the light of Scripture has arrived for every seeker of truth., Allow the Ruach to speak to you and make a decision which road to take – the Mainstream Christianity Road or the Grace of Torah Road..

Take a brief Hebrew meditation on the grace of the Torah in Psalm 25:8:

Good and upright is YHWH,

therefore he teaches sinners in the way.

Whether you like it or not Beloved Friend, YHWH is going to restore His Torah – you simply CANNOT resist or prevent prophecy:

My doctrine shall drop as the rain,

my speech shall distil as the dew,

as the small rain upon the tender herb,

and as the showers upon the grass:

Deut 32:2

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

INTRODUCTION

       It is “The Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach” and not as some Bibles say “The Revelation of John”.

       It is “The Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach” given to Yochanan (John) by Y’shua.

       The Scriptures Translation was used as the basis for the exegesis.

BACKGROUND

       Yochanan, who was the youngest of the disciples, wrote this Revelation.

       He was referred to as “the beloved disciple” who belonged to the “inner circle” of Y’shua followers.

       Yochanan moved to Ephesus probably during the Jewish war of CE 66-70 during a period of extreme persecution.

       Four times the author refers to himself as “Yochanan”. He was well known to his readers and his spiritual authority was widely acknowledged.

       It is accepted that the Book was written between C.E. 70-95.

       During this period Yochanan was in exile on the island of Patmos where he wrote the first nine chapters of the Book, the remaining chapters were written in Ephesus when he was released. During this time the Romans expected all people to worship the Emperor Domitian as a God, many refused and were executed.

ABOUT THE BOOK

       The title means “unveiling” or “disclosure” of Y’shua the Messiah.

       “Unveiling” comes from the Greek word “Apokalypsis” in English “Apocalypse” means “to make publicly known”.

       The full name of the Book is “the Revelation of Y’shua the Messiah” or better “the Revelation about Y’shua the Messiah”. Because of the unified (united) contents of this Book it should never be called “Revelations” but rather “the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach”.

       It is the only New Covenant Book that focuses primarily on prophetic events.

       It is an authentic prophecy concerning the continuing suffering and persecution of Believers and would become even more intense and severe in the years ahead – the final days before the end of the world.

       The Book contains predictions for a long chain of events that will conclude with Messiah’s Second Coming.

       The symbols, visions and images sound like they are straight out of a science fiction movie. (How would you describe today’s technology if you lived two thousand year ago?). It was difficult for Yochanan to describe the images. For many the Book is difficult and confusing and then they tend not to read it.

       It is of utmost importance for Believers to “read” and “understand” this Book – read Revelation 1:3. It is the only Book in the Bible that blesses you (God’s favour on you) if you “read”, “hear” and “keep” it. Why – because the time is near as verse three states. It warns Believers (we the Children of YHWH) of the intensification of the spiritual warfare confronting us. Also of a false-Messiah with a one-world government who will rise and attempt to rule the world.

       The purpose of this blessed message from Y’shua is to make sure we are provided with encouragement for persecuted Believers, by comforting, challenging and proclaiming the sure and certain hope and knowing YHWH’s method of totally overcoming the forces of evil. This Book is also an appeal to those who are presently living in the kingdom of darkness to enter into the Kingdom of Light.

       As in the TaNaCh (O.T.) the ministry of angels is once again very active in the Revelation.

       Finally, the 22 chapters follow the meanings of the 22 letters of the Hebrew Alphabet and therefore not everything is chronological, i.e. we find the Battle of Armageddon in both chapter 14 and 19.

WARNING

       Revelation 22:18-19 says, do not add, change or take anything away from the Revelation.

       Reader please note, that I have made a promise to YHWH that I will under no circumstances compromise the Word of YHWH. Some people will be offended by the unveiling of the truth in the Scriptures and do not want to hear about living holy and to addressing the sin(s) in their lives. The focus with this Book is to prepare the Hebrew Bride of the Hebrew Messiah. YHWH said that we must fear Him alone and therefore I will not bow to any man, church or authority when it comes to teach the Word accurately.

FINAL BLESSING

       Read Revelation 22:20-21, the Grace of God will be with you.

FOOTNOTE

It is important to understand that the Book of Revelation is an account of events occurring in the Spirit world, which trigger world events that take place on earth. Also, to fix a specific time to each event is pure speculation. Finally, we shall see as we proceed through this commentary, its sequence of events is crystal clear to those who read the Revelation in the same common sense, literal manner that every Book of the Bible should be read.

Revelation Chapter 1

Yochanan on the Island of Patmos, and the Vision of Y’shua

1 Revelation of Y’shua Messiah, which Elohim gave Him to show His servants what has to take place with speed. And He signified it by sending His messenger to His servant Yochanan,

2 who bore witness to the Word of Elohim, and the witness of Y’shua Messiah – to all he saw.

3 Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and guard what is written in it, for the time is near.

4 Yochanan, to the seven assemblies that are in Asia: Favour to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is coming, and from the seven Spirits that are before His throne,

Important info about who is blinded

Deut 29:4 – All 12 Tribes blinded.

Isaiah 6:10 – All 12 Tribes blinded.

Isaiah 29:10 – All 12 Tribes blinded.

Jer 5:22-21 – All 12 Tribes blinded

Psalm 69:23 – Refers mainly to the House of Judah because the House of Israel has already been scattered amongst the nations during the time of Y’shua, but remnants of the House of Israel came to the Pesach Feast and thus could include all 12 Tribes.

Rom 11:8 – Sha’ul quote from Isaiah 29:10; and Deut 29:4 and thus includes all 12 Tribes

Rom 11:10 – Sha’ul quote Dawid here and it is before Solomon split the Kingdom in two, Sha’ul quote Psalm 68:23-24; Psalm 69:22-23

Rom 11:25 – Sha’ul quotes Isaiah here and thus refers to all 12.

5 and from Y’shua Messiah, the trustworthy witness, the first-born from the dead, and the ruler of the sovereigns of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,

6 and has made us sovereigns and priests to His Elohim and Father, to Him be esteem and rule forever and ever. Amen.

7 See, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye shall see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth shall mourn because of Him. Yea, Amen.

8 “I am the ‘Aleph’ and the ‘Taw’, Beginning and End,” says YHWH, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.

9 I, Yochanan, both your brother and co-sharer in pressure, and in the reign and endurance of Y’shua Messiah, came to be on the island that is called Patmos for the Word of Elohim and for the witness of Y’shua Messiah.

10 I came to be in the Spirit on the Day of YHWH, and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,

11 saying, “I am the ‘Aleph’ and the ‘Taw’, the First and the Last,” and, “Write in a book what you see and send it to the seven assemblies of Asia – to Ephesos, and to Smurna, and to Pergamos, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodikeia.”

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

13 and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Adam, dressed in a robe down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.

14 And His head and hair were white as white wool, as snow, and His eyes as a flame of fire,

15 and His feet like burnished brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters.

16 And in His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His face was as the sun shining in its strength.

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

18 and the living One. And I became dead, and see, I am living forever and ever. Amen. And I possess the keys of the grave and of death.

19 Write therefore what you have seen, both what is now and what shall take place after these:

20 The secret of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are messengers of the seven assemblies, and the seven lampstands which you saw are seven assemblies.”

There is a progressive revelation of Y’shua throughout the New Covenant. In the Gospels we find Him growing up in Galilee. The Talmidim (Disciples) grow in their understanding of His crucifixion and His divinity. Finally here in the Book of Revelation, Y’shua is revealed in all glory, power and authority.

        We begin our study by immediately recognising the noun is revelation singular, not revelation plural.

        Him, His – Refers to Y’shua. In the N.T. Y’shua reveals YHWH, here the roles are reversed.

        The purpose of the Revelation is to show the “servants” of YHWH things which will occur in the future (Deut 9:27; 2 Chron 6:23; Psalm 79:2 John 18:36; Acts 4:29).

        “Take place with speed” in the original is “en tachos”, can mean “soon to come” or “in quick succession,” meaning rapidly of action once there is a beginning.

        The Greek word for signified is semaino and  can mean to give a sign/to indicate, or to communicate/make known. The last is preferred due to the present context.

        An angel of YHWH gave the message (visions) to Yochanan.

        It is the unfolding of the message of the “appearing of Messiah”.

He gives testimony of:

       The promise of YHWH in the TaNaCh of remarrying Israel.

       What the blood of Y’shua has achieved to enable it.

Y’shua promised while He was on the earth, blessings to those who keep His Torah (Matt 5:3-12). The blessing is their safeguarding. He now promises blessings to those who read, hear, and keep the things written in His Revelation.

        This is the only Book in the Bible where you are promised a blessing if you 1) read, 2) hear and 3) keep the things which are written in it – when you understand and accept it.

        “time is near” means “imminent” (impending).

        Near and imminent are not synonymous, the event could happen immediately or for example in 10 years.

        Imminent is always used when speaking about the return of Y’shua.

        Yakov (James) says “…be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (Jam 1:22).

        The blessing is for the active doer and not for the passive hearer.

        The ultimate blessing is mentioned in Rev 21:4.

Yochanan wrote to 7 actual Congregations in the Roman Province of Asia, which represent all local Congragations in every age.

        There were more than 7 at that time, but 7 is the number of completeness in the Revelation.

        This Book is known as the Book of 7s as we will notice as we continue.

        The definite different characteristics of the 7 one from one another indicate that they are representative of all assemblies.

        It is not “peace and favour” but “favour (grace) and peace” from YHWH, because this is YHWH’s program for sinners.

        You receive first grace and then peace follows (Eph 2:8-9; Titus 2:11; Rom 5:1; Col 1:20; Rom 15:13).

        There is only one Spirit – 7 refer to the Ruach HaKodesh in His manifold and perfect dynamic activity.

        The number 7 refer to the manifold energies of the one Ruach ministering to each of the 7 Congregations at the same time.

        See distinct ministries of the Ruach in Isaiah 11:2 and the 7 distinct characteristics of the Godhead in Zech 4:10.

NB:

    Yochanan was told to write to the 7 assemblies rather than to the Jews. We need to understand how YHWH is dealing with the Jews, the People from the House of Judah, the Southern Two Tribes plus the Levites who have not yet recognized Y’shua as Messiah, at the present time. The Jews have been temporarily blinded to the Gospel until the “fullness of the Gentiles has come in”, which is the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel, the Northern Ten Tribes (when the Assembly of YHWH’s People will be complete) (Rom 11:25). Meanwhile, it is the Assembly’s job to preach the Gospel, including the Revelation, to the whole world, and provoking the Jews to jealousy (Rom 1:16) by showing them we have the Messiah and the Torah. Then, when the Jews see all these things coming to pass, their eyes will be opened to the Truth that Y’shua is their Messiah, and then all will be saved.

Grace is also from Y’shua who is also YHWH (John 1:18, John 10:30).

        Why is Y’shua the first born from the dead when Lazarus and others were raised first?

        The answer is that they were raised to life, but died again (Acts 26:23, 1 Tim 6:16).

        Y’shua is the “firstfruits” of the resurrection (1 Cor 15:23).

        5 times Y’shua is called the “first begotten” or the first born from the dead, which refers to His resurrection, another 5 times He is called “the only begotten”, which refers to His incarnation (Heb 1:6; Col 1:15; Col 1:18; Rom 8:29).

        Y’shua will reign from Jerusalem during the Olam Ha-ba, the Millennial Reign (Isaiah 2:2-3, Zech 14:16-17).

Because of Y’shua’s death, He said you are now “my people” making us a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) who minister to YHWH (Ezek 40-48).

        Amen means to reinforce what one has said.

Y’shua will come (the theme of this Book) on a cloud, when He returns at the Second Advent! (Act 1:9-11; Matt 24:27; Zech 12:10).

        And it will not be a “secret” event; the whole world will witness it.

        This will also be the fulfillment of the Our Father Prayer as well as the prophecy of Dan 7:13-14—the “Blessed Hope” of the Believers!

        They who pierced Him: Zech 12:10 according to Hebrew scholars, is talking about Israel corporately—not just Judah, but all twelve tribes of Israel, who, at the present time are scattered all over the world, “hidden” among the nations of the world.

        The eyes of the Jews (those who really believe in the coming Messiah—Rom 9:6), whose temporary blindness (Rom 11:25) has been removed, will recognize that He is their Messiah when He returns and will mourn in sorrow because they have rejected and crucified Him.

        The Greek for “even so” is amen, and “amen” is the Hebrew for “even so”.

        Yochanan is literally shouting the praises of YHWH in two languages as he says, “Amen and Amen, He is coming!”

This is a very important declaration “Alpha and Omega”, from the beginning to the end.

        In Hebrew the “Aleph and Taw” Hebrew letters mean “Creator God and Absolute Truth and Perfection.”

        The Taw in ancient Hebrew was written in a form of a cross, amazingly Y’shua was nailed to a Taw, the Absolute Truth and Perfection!

        Some people think that Y’shua only came into existence 2 000 years ago, when He was born.

        Scripture clearly reveals that Y’shua has always existed (John 1:1, 14; Heb 1:3).

        Rabbi Sha’ul (Paul) declared that Y’shua created the universe and continues to maintain it (Col 1:14-17).

        Elohim Himself said in Gen 1:26, “let us make man in our image”, indicating the Godhead was there from the very beginning.

        In the beginning ‘Elohim’ (Hebrew is plural and male – meaning more than one – Father, Son & Ruach) created the Heavens and the Earth.

        Thus, Y’shua is YHWH who created everything.

        Some Bibles leave “…the beginning and the end” out, check your Bible.

        Y’shua seals this prophecy with the authority of His own name (Isaiah 9:6).

        The Son is called the “mighty God” (El Shaddai) in Isaiah 9:6, thus, Y’shua is Yehovah!

Yochanan uses his own name because he was well known.

        Present Life in Y’shua on Earth is not the life of a victorious crusader, dominating and taking the kingdom, or materially successful and prosperous person as the Name It, Claim It, and Frame It prosperity preachers preach.

        It is as when Y’shua was on the earth, the suffering servant (the joy however is spiritual).

        Yochanan wants no praise for his suffering; he immediately identifies himself as a brother in Y’shua and a companion in heartache and suffering.

        Yochanan was banned out of Ephesus by the Roman Caesar Domitian and was in exile on Patmos.

        An island 22 km x 6 km located 130 km Southwest of Ephesus in the Aegean Sea.

        Volcanic and mostly treeless, the Romans used it as a penal colony, forcing prisoners to work in the granite mines.

        In prison because of his witness for Y’shua and believing the Word; at that stage they only had the TaNaCh of which the Torah was the foundation.

        Like Sha’ul, who wrote his most joyful letter to the Philippians, while imprisoned in Rome, Yochanan saw every situation as an opportunity to spread the Word of YHWH and the testimony of Y’shua the Messiah.

Yochanan was in the spirit “on” the Day of YHWH.

        The original Greek word for “on” in this context is “en”, and the correct translation is “in”, meaning that Yochanan was in the Tribulation.

        Yochanan was carried forward through the centuries until he saw a vision of the great and terrible Day of YHWH - the Tribulation hour.

        Yochanan is being transported into time to view the events leading up to and including the Day of YHWH (Joel 2:1, 11; 3:14).

        The “Lord’s Day” is definitely not a reference to the Sunday “Sabbath” or Sunday “Lord’s Day,” Replacement Theology’s substitute for the seventh-day Sabbath.

        “The Day of YHWH” is the general time period known as the Tribulation.

        It is also known as the Day of Messiah (2 Thes 2:2-3).

        Y‘shua paid the price and He is about to excecute judgement.

        This day has nothing to do with the Shabbat. It refers to the time when Elohim intervenes to bring salvation to His people and punishment to the rebellious (Obad 15).

        In Zeph 1:7-9, 14-15 both terms are used to describe the same time period.

        A day consists of light and darkness (The Jewish day also begins at sundown.)

        It refers to the time when Y’shua returns to judge and rule the world.

        A “loud voice” compared to a trumpet blast, a resonance of thunder is used 22 times in this Book and it always indicates a major message from Heaven.

        A trumpet shofar has always acted as a warning signal and this prepares Yochanan for a message.

Some Bibles leave out “Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last”, check your Bible.

        Yochanan was instructed to write what he saw in a book, the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach, so it was meant to be read and heard in the Congregations (Rev 1:3), also that both the deaf and blind can receive the message.

        The 7 Congregations were in cities in western Asia Minor, which is Turkey of today.

        They were only a journey of one to three days by foot between the assemblies which were on the postal route.

“Menorot” in Hebrew – take special note as this Book is full of hidden

Menorah Structures and layout (Seven-piece lampstands), and will be discussed in detail in chapter 2.

        These 7 Lamps represents the 7 Congregations, which are lights in a dark world as identified in verse 20.

        There are also 7 continents and the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel are scattered amongst all of them.

The centre of the Body of Believers is Y’shua, the Yarek (main shaft) of the Menorah.

        “One” and “Son of Adam/Man” refer to Y’shua (Ezek 1:26).

        His clothing symbolises priestly royalty (Dan 10:5-6).

        The robe is a “tallit” a Jewish prayer shawl.

Hair white as wool or snow symbolises eternity and wisdom (Dan 7:9-14).

        Eyes like flames of fire, symbolises omniscience and also wrath (Zeph 1:2-3; 18).

        Y’shua is righteously angry concerning the sins of the world many of them depicted in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 which Believers are doing.

His feet like fine brass symbolises omnipotence.

        Meaning Y’shua is everywhere.

        Voice like many waters represents commanding authority.

The 7 stars is explained in verse 20.

        Right hand speaks of authority – sustain/protect/rule the 7 stars.

        The Word comes out of His mouthg and penetrates (Heb 4:12, Eph 6:17).

        His countenance suggests indescribable glory and majesty.

The sight of YHWH the Son Y’shua glorified is breathtaking, and the one who laid his head upon Y’shua at the Last Supper, now falls prostrate at His feet (Dan 8:18).

“Amen” is a word of finality or emphasis, meaning “So be it.”

        When Y’shua died on the crucifixion stake He descended into hades/sheol (Eph 4:9) to take the keys of Hades and the grave.

        The souls of all the righteous who died before Y’shua, were kept captive in the underworld by satan (see our book “Undestanding the Mysterious Spitit World” for the detail).

        This is one of the 5 chambers in the spiritual underworld.

        Y’shua defeated Satan, took the keys from him and stripped him (1 John 3:8) of his “Dunamis” power.

        Satan now only has “Exousia” power, meaning only what the Ruach allows him to have (1 Cor 10:13).

The things, which you “have seen” refers to the vision of Y’shua (Rev 1:9-20).

        The things “what is now” refers to the present age, which was in Yochanan’s time and is still in existence today.

        The things “what shall take place after these” – after what? - After the present age – referring to the Tribulation period onwards.

        Meaning Yochanan was told to divide his prophecy into 3 parts: the past (Chapter 1), the present (Chapter 2-3), and the future (Chapter 4-22).

The meanings of the stars and the lampstands are now revealed.

        7 Messengers represent the “Heads” of the seven Congregation groups or can be the Angels over the Congregations.

        In biblical times in Jewish Synagogues and early Congregations of Believers, the leading elder, who read messages to the assembly, was called “the messenger of the assembly.”

        However, the term “angels” in this verse carries a double meaning.

        The Greek term aggelos can refer to either messengers or angels

        These messengers of the seven assemblies may be types of messenger angels to the universal Assembly of Believers throughout history, just as it is an angel through whom the Revelation was given to Yochanan.

        We also see angels depicted as stars in Rev 12:4, 9.

Hebrew Aleph Beit:

Introduction

The meaning of the 22 letters of the Hebrew Aleph-beit is embedded into the 22 chapters of the Book of Revelation. Each Hebrew letter has a special meaning and the Hebrew Aleph-beit is unlike any other alphabet. It is not a haphazard collection of consonants. The individual names and sounds of the letters, their numerical gematria, and their graphic descriptions have been divinely ordained by YHWH. Thus, the key to truly understanding Revelation lies in the 22 Hebrew letters which create a skeletal outline. Each letter has a given meaning and revelation conforms to that outline.

Through the chapters we will show how Elohim had a hand in the placement of each chapter of Revelation. This study shows a divine design This teaching is adding dimension to Yochanan’s adventure into the future, and simply escapes most commentaries.

It must be noted that not everything in the Revelation Book is chronological; no, the chapter follow the meaning of the letters of the Hebrew Aleph-beit.

Aleph letter – Numerical value 1

Meaning (alef or aleph): Head, as in Creator, King; the Head of the Bull appointed for sacrifice.

Embedded in the Chapter:The ‘aleph,’ the first letter of the aleph-beit, represents the number 1. According to rabbinical thought, aleph symbolises the ‘one and only, the eternal, the omnipotent God’. It is said to be the master letter, proclaiming both the Name of God and His divinity, the unity and sovereignty of God. It is the link between heaven and earth, between the infinite God and His finite physical creation.

The first chapter of Revelation features this very concept. In Rev 1:8 Y’shua says, “I the Aleph and Taw, the beginning and the ending”. in verse 18 Y’shua declares, “I am living forever and ever. Amen. And I possess the keys of the grave and of death.” This is an absolutely incredible statement, especially in the light of the meaning of      aleph, the first letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit. Take note that Yochanan was a Jew and he saw everything from a Jewish perspective. I am fully convinced that the very first scroll of the Revelation was written in Hebrew, because of the Hebrew alphabetical layout.

We need to understand that Revelation is a Jewish Book, and it is vital to understand the Jewish flavour or the Judaism in the Book. In Rev 1:1 YHWH gave “the revelation”  first to Y’shua ‘the head’, and in Rev 1:5 Y’shua is the ‘first born.’ The entire chapter describes Y’shua as the Creator and King. Y’shua is described twice as the ‘Aleph and Taw’ - in verse 8 and 11. Verse 7 says, “behold, He  (the King of kings and Lord of lords – Rev 19:11-16) cometh with clouds”,  speaking of Y’shua during the Second Advent.

Another meaning for aleph is ‘the head of the bull appointed for sacrifice.’ It is interesting to note that during one of the 7 main Festivals of Elohim, the Feast of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) a bull was also sacrificed on the Mount of Olives. We know that Y’shua is the centre of all the feasts and offerings and did, and will, fulfill all the feasts. Amazingly Y’shua was crucified on the exact same place on the Mount of Olives where the sacrifice took place, and it is also the exact place where He ascended from and will decend to. Verse 7 adds meaning to this, “and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him”, speaking of Y’shua when He will return.

.

Revelation Chapter 2

The Things which Are – Present Time

Background

At this stage (± 90 C.E.), more than 100 congregations had already been established. Yochanan selected 7 literal Assemblies that reflected the characteristics of the entire body of the House of Israel. Secondly, 7 letters were written to 7 actual individuals/angels. Thirdly, they are messages applicable to all Assemblies in all ages. Lastly, each letter follows the same format and is divided into seven categories:

1)     Each letter starts with a personal address to that Assembly to which the letter was written.

2)    It is then followed by a character description of Y’shua.

3)    Then the recognition of all the good deeds the Assembly did.

4)    The shortfalls of the Assembly are then highlighted.

5)    The explanation of the corrective action to be taken is laid down.

6)    This is followed by the challenge to the Assembly.

7)    The letter ends with a reward or a promise.

It is very important to note that these letters were not addressed to unbelievers (pagans), but to the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel so they could repent of the paganism they were involved with. Finally, each person who reads this book must decide for him/herself in which Assembly group he/she belongs and then take up the challenge to be set-apart!

Four Theories concerning the Seven Letters

Theory 1: Seven letters were written for seven Assemblies that existed in those days only, and are not applicable for today’s Believers – then the Book of the Revelation will have no meaning today at all. There is a group claiming that Armageddon is gone past and the Crucifixion and the destruction of the Temple dealt with Armageddon. They are known as Preterists.

Theory 2: Seven Letters were written to one body of Believers (the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel) and this Body who went through seven time periods. History proves that this in reality happened; as the years moved on the Ten Tribes were absorbed into paganism. These seven periods are presented by the letters.

Theory 3: Seven Letters were written to seven different Assemblies which represented the entire Body of the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel that existed then (and throughout the past ±2000 years) and all the letters were/are applicable at any point in time in history.

Theory 4: A combination of theories 2 and 3, which the author feels is the more correct one.

First Letter: Ephesos (The Loveless Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

1. To the messenger of the assembly of

Ephesos write,

Setting: Ephesos was seaport city of about 0,5 million people. Situated on the western coast of Asia Minor, it was the political capital of the Roman province of Asia. It was famous for the goddess Artemis or Diana temple, one of the seven wonders of the world.

         Sha’ul founded the Assembly and stayed there for 3 years, and later asked Timothy to be its leader.

         Sha’ul’s teachings caused mayhem among those who practiced false religion there (Acts 19:23-31).

         One of the B’rit Hadashah (N.T.) letters was written to the Assembly at Ephesos.

         This was also Yochanan’s home Assembly who was the “local Apostle” there. He wrote the last 12 chapters of the Revelation (from 10 onwards) from Ephesos when he was released from Patmos.

         Historians agree that he died there.

Timeline View: This was the Assembly period that was “sent” to take the Good News to the world, the Assembly birthed during the time of Acts after the crucifixion of Y’shua (Assembly of Acts ±30-33 C.E.).

Character

description of Y’shua

walking in the midst of the seven golden lampstands, says this:

Y’shua is the Yarek of the Body of Believers, the center of the Menorah (Rev 1:13, 16).

Recognition

2 “I know your works, and your labour, and your endurance, and that you are not able to bear evil ones, and have tried those who say they are emissaries and are not, and have found them false;

3 and you have been bearing up and have endurance, and have laboured for My Name’s sake and have not become weary.

This Assembly was under constant persecution from both the pagan Romans and the Orthodox Jews.

         They did a lot of humanely motivated works – i.e., served Y’shua under moral or social pressure.

         The positive aspect is that they did not open their doors to sects and did not accept hypocrites (1 John 4:1; 2 Cor 11:13; Acts 20:29-31); meaning they stayed ‘set apart’ by guarding the Torah.

         An individual's doctrine (i.e., against Torah) or when his life is filled with wickedness (transgression of the Torah) should be judged (John 7:24).

         The way to do this is mentioned in 1 Tim 5:19-20.

         A person's character and motives should never be judged (Matt 7:1).

Shortfalls

4 But I hold this against you, that you

have left your first love.

They had abandoned the first and great commandment: “You shall love your Elohim with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matt 22:37, Deut 6:5).

         Thus, they left their first love for YHWH by moving away from Torah as Y’shua still reinforces “if you love Me do my Torah” (John 14:15).

         A second theory is that ‘first love’ in Greek is ‘protos agape’ and these words have a second meaning, and that is ‘love feast’ and that it refers to the Covenant Meal.

         Some scholars say the early Assembly kept Covenant Meal weekly at the end of Shabbat on the first day of the week and use Acts 20:7 as motivation.

Corrective Action

5 So remember from where you have fallen, and repent and do the first works, or else I shall come to you speedily and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

6 Yet this you have, that you hate the works of the Nikolaites, which I also hate.

What was the solution? They must do their first works, meaning returning to what the Torah commands: “Love YHWH!”

         The “lampstand” (oil in the lamp) refers to the Light of the Ruach HaKodesh which YHWH will remove.

         “Candlesticks” (as in some Bibles) is an incorrect translation as there were no candles at that time. The Greek word “luchnia” should have been translated as “lamp stands”.

         Ephesos was a sect of heresy.

         They led lives of unrestrained indulgence.

         They ate things offered to idols.

         The leader, Nicolas, allowed other men to marry his wife and they supported either polygamy or the holding of wives in common.

         The Nicolaitan leaders exerted authority over the congregation and declared exclusive power to interpret Scripture correctly.

         They aspired to power and prestige, were very carnal, and they ate food offered to idols (Num 22-25, 31:15-16; Acts 15:29; 1 Cor 10:27-29).

         YHWH hates the deeds of this Assembly.

         The winning formula – remember, repent and       return.

Challenge

7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

The Ruach says to these Lost Sheep of the House of Israel to get out of Babylon, listen and repent! (Rev 18:4)

         Ultimately the message to each of the seven assemblies is for the individual Believers in all assemblies, meaning you must decide if it is you the Ruach is talking about here.

Reward

To him who overcomes I shall give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of Elohim.”

"Overcomes" refer to 1 John 5:5.

         "Tree of Life" refers to the trees in the New      Jerusalem city, which are on both sides of the       stream of living water that comes out of YHWH’s       throne (Gen 2:9; Rev 22:2).

         The fundamental reward for faithful, victorious obedience is to eat of the Tree of Life in the in theParadise of Elohim.

Second Letter: Smurna (The Persecuted Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

8 And to the messenger of the assembly

in Smurna write,

Setting: Smurna means “bitterness”.

         Smuna was a wealthy port city.

         It was well-known for its devotion to Rome and its pagan gods.

         It is the only one of the 7 cities that is still thriving and is known today as Izmir.

Timeline View: this was the “Myrrh” Assembly period (used to anoint the dead), a time of extreme persecution. Polycarp, a disciple of the apostle John and an early “Church father”, was martyred in Smyrna in 156 C.E. (period started in ±64 C.E.).

Character

description of Y’shua

This says the First and the Last, who became dead, and came to life:

Refers to Y’shua’s resurrection.

         Death and satan have no hold on Y’shua (Rev 1:8,17-18).

Recognition

9 “I know your works, and pressure, and poverty – yet you are rich – and the blasphemy of those who say they are Yehudim and are not, but are a congregation of Satan.

This Assembly goes through extreme persecution.

         During the second and third century, Believers were fed to lions in Rome while multitudes cheered.

         History informs us that 5 million were martyred during this era.

         They were physically poor, but spiritually “rich” (Luke 12:21).

         Those out of the Torah Covenant who blasphemed against the real Ten Tribers and pretended only they were the covenant people of Elohim.

         This is in reference to all who believe in Replacement Theology (Israel as a nation does not count anymore.)

         Beware of those who claim to be Believers but deny the deity of Y’shua (1 John 4:3) and guarding the Torah (John 5:46-47).

         Another part of the persecution came from Jews who were Jews by birth but not circumcised in the heart (Rom 2:28-29).

         Called “a synagogue of satan” because of their blasphemy.

         Synagogue is Hebrew for “an assembly of people”.

Shortfalls

None.

         It is no accident that Smurna, who escaped condemnation, survived over the centuries.

         The population today is over 300,000 – of which a portion are Believers.

Corrective Action

None.

         In contrast to the assembly at Ephesus, who were sound in doctrine and maintained “good works” (but lacking in love) and the Assemblies that were compromised in some other way; YHWH had nothing negative to say to the poor, persecuted assembly at Smurna (and Philadelphia) but just encouraged her to push through until she received her reward.

Challenge

10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. See, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, in order to try you, and you shall have pressure ten days. Be trustworthy until death, and I shall give you the crown of life.

11 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

Probably refers to the 10 successive Roman Emperors from Nero 64 CE to Diocletion in the year 305 CE, who persecuted the Believers (Matt 10:22).

         In the Old Covenant, the number 10 also refers to continuous or non-stop (Num 14:22; Neh 4:12; Dan 1:20).

         In Daniel (7:7-24) and in Revelation, the number 10 seems to refer to the complete wickedness of the world.

         Meaning, all of the world’s wickedness would come against the assembly at Smyrna for a limited period of time.

         “Crown of life” is one of the six rewards you can achieve one day.

Reward

He who overcomes shall by no means be harmed by the second death.”

It must be noted that eternal life is not to those who are passive in their faith, but to those who “endure to the end” – even if that means martyrdom! (Matt 10:28)

         Second death refers to the lake of fire.

Third Letter: Pergamos (The Compromising Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

12 And to the messenger of the assembly in Pergamos write,

Setting: Pergamos means "marriage" and has the same root from which we get our English words "bigamy" and "polygamy".

         Ceremonies in Pergamos often centred on licentious parties and temple prostitution.

         This Assembly was known for her temples and sensual worship of pagan gods.

         One of the chief gods was Aesculapius, the god of healing, represented by a serpent.

         Aesculapius was the son of Apollo, the “Blameless Physician” of Homer, killed by Zeus to keep men from escaping death altogether, and afterwards deified. His descendants had a secret and hereditary knowledge of the medical art according to their belief.

         Many of the city’s coins had an image of this     serpent on one side, and medical services today still use the serpent as an emblem.

         Pergamos was the main religious center and, with a vast library of 200,000 volumes, literary center of Asia Minor.

         The city was addicted to idolatry and was filled with statues and altars to pagan gods, including Zeus.

         "Jesus" is believed to be derived from the name Zeus.

         Ie-Zeus means “Hail Zeus” and was pronounced          Ie-zeus and later Io-sus.

         All the Bibles up to the 1611 KJV had the name Iosus in them.

         The J-sound only came into existence about in the 1600s; and the J replaced the I and the “o” was left out; from there, thus the name Jesus was formed. (Our motto remains, We Inform, You Choose).

Timeline View: This is the Assembly period that “married” (accepted) false doctrines (period started in ±313 C.E. with Constantine).

Character

description of Y’shua

He who has the sharp two-edged sword, says this:

Y’shua is the Word of YHWH (John 1:1, Rev 19:13) and discerns the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb 4:12).

Recognition

13 I know your works, and where you dwell, where the throne of Satan is. And you hold fast to My Name, and did not deny the belief in Me, even in the days in which Antipas was My trustworthy witness, who was killed near you, where Satan dwells.

Pergamos was the centre of emperor worship and idolatry.

         The Pergamon Altar, known as satan’s throne, is a massive structure originally built in the 2nd century BCE in the Ancient Greek city of Pergamon.

         The temple was dedicated to the Greek god Zeus. (The Pergamon Altar was shipped out of the Ottoman Empire from the original excavation site by the German archeological team led by Carl Humann, and reconstructed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin in the 19th century, where it can be seen alongside other monumental structures such as the Ishtar Gate from Babylon.)

         They hold fast to Y’shua’s Name amongst persecution.

         Antipas was the first Believer in Asia to be martyred for his faith.

         It means that you live among evil circumstances  in a country or place where the Name Y’shua is ridiculed and Believers insist on using the Greek name Jesus instead of His real Hebrew name, Y’shua.

Shortfalls

14 But I hold a few matters against you, because you have there those who adhere to the teaching of Bil’am, who taught Balaq to put a stumbling-block before the children of Yisra’El, to eat food offered to idols, and to commit whoring.

15 So you also have those who adhere to the teaching of the Nikolaites, which teaching I hate.

Just before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, they had already defeated two kings in the Ammon (Jordan) area.

         Balaq, king of Moab (Jordan area) became alarmed and sent elders of Midian and his messengers to Bil’am to induce him to come and curse Israel.

         Bil’am refused to go, but king Balaq bribed him with money and he went (Num 22-24).

         Bil’am eventually repented and YHWH allowed him to continue, but only allowed him to speak what YHWH wanted – three curses were then spoken over Balaq by Bil’am.

         Bil’am cowardly returned to King Balaq later and explained to the king how he could get the Israelites to curse themselves, thereby removing the protection YHWH had on them.

         He counseled that Balaq and his people ensnare YHWH's people by offering them prostitutes and unclean food sacrificed to idols. This worked, because Num 31:16 states: “They were the ones who followed Bil’am’s advice and enticed the Israelites to be unfaithful to YHWH in the Peor incident, so that a plague struck YHWH’s people."

         Jude claimed that the way of Bil’am was an error (Jude 11), while Peter claimed that Bil’am loved the wages of wickedness which caused him to wander from the straight path (2 Peter 2:15).

         The Hebrew calls Bil’am a diviner in the Torah and a false prophet.

         What Bil’am was to Israel, the Nicolaitans were to the Assembly (Rev 2.6; 1 Cor 10:21).

         This Assembly today lures into various practices of fornication with non-Believing religions and beliefs.

         Y’shua’s brother, the Apostle Yakov (James), leader of the assembly at Jerusalem, had advised the Messianic Jewish assembly there to write to the Gentiles/Tribers (Galatians) who had turned to faith in Y’shua in warning them to avoid involvement in practices (even symbolic) of idolatry and sexual immorality (Acts 15:13-20).

         Sadly, some in the assembly at Pergamos had also given in to the pressure of the powerful pagan spirit of the city and gotten involved in the “doctrine of Bil’am”.

         Does your Assembly compromise; i.e., marry      homosexuals, accept abortions, etc.?

         It is also the Assembly that has the practice of Nicolaitanism, which is when the leader says, "I am the head, and you have no say in the matter"; and YHWH hates this.

Corrective Action

16 Repent, or else I shall come to you speedily and fight against them with the sword of My mouth.

Those who had adopted the doctrines of Bil’am and the Nicolaitans needed to turn away from these doctrines.

         They must repent from false doctrines.

         YHWH would fight against them with His Word (through using people), which destroys false doctrines and those who hold them (2 Cor 10:4-5).

Challenge

17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

If the Ruach is speaking to you right now, listen and repent from false doctrines.

Reward

To him who overcomes I shall give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I shall give him a white stone, and on the stone a renewed Name written which no one knows except him who receives it.

Y’shua is the true Bread of Heaven, eat of Him and you do not have “to eat things sacrificed to idols” (Rev 7:16; John 6:50-51).

         Jurors in ancient courts decided whether you were guilty or not by giving the defendant a stone. White meant innocent and black guilty.

         A defendant; or, for example, a gladiator in Roman times were given a “new name” on a stone; and that person was then free to travel and buy wherever he wanted.

         The “new name” also refers to the Hebrew blood covenant where names are exchanged as part of the procedure; i.e., Abram who became Abraham during the covenant with YHWH received the “H” in YHWH’s name.

         When you come into the Torah covenant with Y’shua, you will also get a new name when you are in the Kingdom of heaven. Y’shua also, as part of the covenant, will get a new name as per Rev 19:12 (Isa 56:5; 62:2).

Fourth Letter: Thyatira (The Corrupt Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

18 And to the messenger of the assembly in Thyatira write,

Setting: Thyatira was originally a Macedonian colony during the Greek empire of Alexander the Great.

         The name also means, “sacrifice of works”.

         It was famous for woollen goods and “Royal purple” dye. Lydia, a convert of the Rabbi Sha’ul (Paul), was a “seller of purple fabrics” and a very wealthy woman from Thyatira (Acts 16:14).

         It was a city sponsoring idolatrous feasts and orgies.

         The main god of the city was Apollos, the sun god; although Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, is also mentioned in inscriptions found in Thyatira.

Timeline View: This is the time period when the Roman Empire reinforced the Catholic (Universal) Church (period started in ±605 C.E.).

Character

description of Y’shua

This says the Son of Elohim, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and His feet like burnished brass:

This describes Y’shua’s eternal, wisdom, omniscience & omnipotence.

         This is also the first hidden menorah as mentioned in Rev 1:13-15, and as explained at the end of this chapter.

Here we see in the center of the seven character-descriptions in the seven letters to the seven Assemblies there is reference light – Y’shua’s eyes as flames of fire.

Recognition

19 I know your works, and love, and service, and belief, and your endurance. And as for your works, the last are more than the first.

This Assembly flourishes with good works, love, service, faith and perseverance.

Shortfalls

20 But I hold against you that you allow that woman Izebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and lead My servants astray to commit whoring and to eat food offered to idols.

21 And I gave her time to repent of her whoring, and she did not repent.

22 See, I am throwing her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great affliction, unless they repent of their works.

23 And I shall slay her children with death. And all the assemblies shall know that I am the One searching the kidneys and hearts. And I shall give to each one of you according to your works.

Izebel was the most hated woman in the TaNaCh.

         She become so hated that she was thrown from a window and the dogs ate her flesh.

         A false prophetess who led men into literal and spiritual fornication.

         The sin of this self-appointed prophetess was to bring Baalism into Israel as a new religion (1 Kings 16:31).

         The woman who claims to speak for YHWH is not actually named Izebel, but is in her teaching seducing Believers into idolatry and sexual immorality, the same as the disreputable Queen Jezebel (1 Kings 16:31 – 21:25).

         They also ate things sacrificed to idols.

         She had been given time to repent, but refused.

         YHWH declared that He would destroy her and her followers.

         One effect of sin and rebellion against YHWH is physical illness.

         Another effect of continuing in sin is for Jezebel’s (spiritual) children (those who follow her pagan teachings and give in to her seductions) to be “killed with death”, which is a Hebrew idiom for “slain with a most sure and awful death”.

         Hoshea spoke of the same thing: “My people have perished for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being priest for Me. Since you have forgotten the Torah of your Elohim, I also forget your children” (4:6).

         This seducing spirit is very much active amongst Believers today.

Corrective Action

24 And to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not possess this teaching, and who have not known the depths of Satan, as they call them, I am not putting on you another burden.

The theme in this letter revolves around holiness.

         There is corruption in this Assembly that must be dealt with.

         Many will not hold this Jezebel pagan doctrine spirit, and will not be ignorantly involved in evil, satanic activities (2 Tim 3:1-9).

         YHWH will put no other burden on them other than to continue resisting her pagan teachings and to continue steadfastly in what they already have – the Torah that identifies sin (1 John 3:4).

Challenge

25 But hold fast what you have until I come.

Wait upon Y’shua and keep the good works of Torah and continue to do them (John 14:15) till He returns.

Reward

26 And he who overcomes, and guards My works until the end, to him I shall give authority over the nations,

27 And he shall shepherd them with a rod of iron, as the potter’s vessels shall be broken to pieces, as I also have received from My Father.

28 And I shall give him the morning star.

29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

The person that perseveres and keeps the good works of the Torah (John 14:15), only he/she will rule as a king or priest (1 Peter 2:9) in the Olam Haba, the Messianic Age.

         The Bride in her glorified body will rule over the nations who will be in their natural bodies. There are two theories here on who the nations are:

         Theory 1: Only the righteous Believers that survived Armageddon, all unrighteousness will be eliminated during Armageddon, because everything will be restored as it was in the Garden of Eden before the curses.

         Theory 2: Every person that survived Armageddon (righteous as well as unrighteous) will enter the Olam Haba. Look at the last part of verse 27 and verse 28: “as I also have received from My Father; and I will give him the morning star.” Who is doing the speaking here? Who is making the promise to “he who overcomes”? It is Messiah Y’shua, the One who is imposing these letters on the seven assemblies. Now, to whom is He making the promise? It is to “he (singular) who overcomes”, the individual Believer in Y’shua who is Torah-observant (not the whole Assembly of Believers). And what is He promising to give to the individual Believer who overcomes? It is the same as what Y’shua has received from His Father: “…power over the nations—‘he shall rule them with a rod of iron; they shall be dashed to pieces like potters vessels’—as I also received from my Father; and I will give him the Morning Star” (Psalm 2:9). But Rev 19:15 says “He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron” – which one is it now? It is saying that Y’shua the Messiah, as was promised to Him from the beginning, will be the One who rules the nations with a rod of iron; and the individual Believers, His Bride, will rule the nations with a rod of iron only to the extent that they sit on His throne with Him – sharing His rule with Him (2 Tim 2:12). And how will He do that? By also giving them the Morning Star Himself (2 Peter 1:19; Rev  22:16); so that it is no longer they who live (and rule) but the Messiah who lives and rules in them, with them, and through them (Gal 2:20). This defeats the Dominion Now/Kingdom Now doctrine in totality that the Kingdom of YHWH will be fully established on earth before the King of Kings returns in person to do that. The basis of their doctrine originates from the Roman Catholic Church, which strived to dominate the entire Roman Empire from the very beginning and even the entire world to this very today.

The Hidden Menorot

What is a menorah? Menorah is the Hebrew for a seven-branched lampstand (Menorot is plural). YHWH instructed Moshe (Moses) to build a Menorah (Exod 37:17-24). It had to be placed against the south wall of the Tabernacle. Each lamp had just enough oil to last one day. Each morning the priest had to tend the lamps; normally, six would already be dead; but the middle one – the shamish (the service lamp) burned longer with the same oil. The priest first prepared the three on the left (one by one); then the three on the right; then lastly, the middle one was prepared – which represented Y’shua.

Moshe’s Menorah was also in Solomon’s Temple. At one point, the oil was used up but the lamp kept on burning for eight days; a miracle indeed, which led to the “Hanukkah” Feast (also known as the Festival of Lights). Hanukkah is the Hebrew word for “dedication”. This eight-day festival begins on the 20th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev (December). It celebrates the Maccabean brother’s struggle for religious freedom; and the highlight is the       recommitment of the Temple in Jerusalem.

What is meant by Hidden Menorahs?

There will always be a number 7 present; i.e., 7 activities, 7 character descriptions, etc. The centre point (number 4, the service lamp) will always refer to light or the absence of light with three branches on your left and three on your right. Let’s now look at the first hidden Menorah…

In the 7 letters to the Assemblies, you will find when you examine the 7 character descriptions of Y’shua closely – that number 4 refers to light (Rev 2:18). In other words, the 7 character descriptions in the 7 letters form a perfect Menorah with three character descriptions on your left and three on your right – not referring to light. You will now appreciate that Yochanan could not have written the “Revelation of Y’shua” without the inspiration of each word by

the Ruach.

Now before we continue, read John 1:1-9 and count how many times you see “Light” (which refers to Elohim). You will find that we tend to read over the hidden meanings in the Scriptures. I implore you not to "just read" your Bible, but study it. I pray that the Ruach will reveal the mysteries in the Bible to you.

Interesting:

Did you know that the seven words spoken on the crucifixion stake by Y’shua also forms a Menorah with the fourth one, “My God, my God why have you forsaken me”, uttered during the darkness that fell on the earth after God-      the-Light moved away (Matt 27:46).

Years before the Temple of Herod was destroyed, when Y’shua completed His work on earth (the day He was crucified), the middle lamp died and did not burn again after that. Why? Y’shua, the shamish, brings light to the world (Luke 2:32).

Also, Elohim made the heavens and the earth in six days; and on the seventh day, He rested. Note what happened on the fourth day: the sun, moon and stars were created! Another hidden Menorah in the creation days.

As we go on, we will see more and more hidden Menorot in this book.

Beit letter – Numerical value 2

Meaning (bet or beit): House; duality as in husband and wife; also division between good and evil, etc.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter ‘beit’, having the value 2, is also said to be the letter of duality – good versus evil; right versus wrong; the blessing of obedience and the curse of disobedience.

The Rabbis suggest that ‘beit’ represents the letter of the ‘house of meeting’ (the Temple), since the very pronunciation of this letter forms the Hebrew word for ‘house’. How appropriate, then, to observe that the second chapter of the Revelation introduces epistles to 7 ‘Assemblies’ in Asia Minor. Each of them is a ‘house of meeting’ – a geographical location that typifies also the history of the entire New Covenant Believers’ timeline.

Perfectly matching the declared meaning of ‘beit’, Y’shua pronounces a blessing for obedience and a curse for disobedience upon each of these ‘houses’. In the letters to the various Assemblies, Y’shua instructs them to repent of their evil deeds if they want to inherit eternal life.

Interestingly, the Holy One is is also shown as Redeemer and Judge.

Revelation Chapter 3

The Things which Are – Present Time

(continue)

Recap of the Four Theories on the Seven Letters

Theory 1: Seven letters were written for seven Assemblies that existed in those days only, and are not applicable for today’s Believers – then the Book of the Revelation will have no meaning today at all. There is a group claiming that Armageddon is gone past and the Crucifixion and the destruction of the Temple dealt with Armageddon. They are known as Preterists.

Theory 2: Seven Letters were written to one body of Believers, the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel, and this Body went through seven time periods. History proves that this in reality is what happened: as the years moved on, the Ten Tribes were absorbed into paganism. These seven periods are presented by the letters.

Theory 3: Seven Letters were written to seven different Assemblies which represented the entire Body of the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel that existed then, and throughout the past ±2000 years, and all the letters were/are applicable at any point in time in history.

Theory 4: A combination of theories 2 and 3, which the author feels is the more correct one.

Fifth Letter: Sardis (The Dead Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

1. And to the messenger of the assembly in Sardis write,

Setting: Sardis   Means “prince of joy”.

         It was the capital city of King Croesus in the       province of Lydia in Asia Minor.

         It was a very prosperous city located on important commercial routes.

         Some wealthy citizens were involved in mystery cults, and the general citizenry worshipped Greek deities like Artemis, to whom was dedicated a great temple in Sardis.

         These residents carried Sardis stones as amulets to ward off evil spirits.

         There was also a Jewish synagogue there that was much larger than any found – even in Judea.

         This Assembly fell prey to the lure of materialism and carnal concerns.

Timeline View: This is when the Reformation started, when the Protestants protested against the Roman Catholic Church and broke away from them (period started in ±1550 C.E.).

Character

description of Y’shua

He who has the seven Spirits of Elohim and the seven stars,

Symbolises control (remember, there is only one Spirit; the number 7 only refers to the perfection of the Spirit, and the manifold energies of the one Holy Spirit ministering to each of the 7 Assemblies at the same time). (Also see Rev 1:4, 4:5.)

Recognition

Only few have not allowed any paganism in their teachings and in their midst as seen in verse 5.

Shortfalls

Says this, “I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead.

The assembly at Sardis had a outward appearance of being an active, lively Assembly; but Y’shua says that the Believers are spiritually dead.

         They have a reputation for being a progressive and lively centre of witness, but the outward appearance was deceptive.

         Many have big buildings and huge numbers that visit with substantial income; but a Congregation is not measured by the numbers attending – it is measured by the number of Talmidim (Disciples, disciplined men) it had raised and sent to teach about the Living Torah and YHWH’s instructions of living in the Torah.

         Many Congregations and members are dead – they do not allow the Ruach to work in their midst; they have ceremony, but no life.

         Also, they do not have sound teachings; and therefore, an expectancy for the return of the Messiah.

Corrective Action

2 Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete before Elohim.

The Assembly is desperately in need to rethink their calling and to revive it.

         This Assembly is a spiritual graveyard and will eventually die if drastic action is not taken.

Challenge

3 Remember, then, how you have received, and heard. And watch and repent. If, then, you do not wake up, I shall come upon you as a thief, and you shall not know at all what hour I come upon you.

They must repent, return to accurate teachings and strive to live a set-apart life or else they will be caught unprepared when the Messiah returns.

         Y’shua will dawn on themas a thief in the night as they do not study prophecy (John 5:39; Rom 15:4; 1 Thess 5:1-5, 20; 2 Peter 1:20).

         Therefore, there is no expectancy for His return (Matt 24:42-44).

         Notice also the warnings to those who fail to repent and mend their ways is to Believers, not to unbelievers, meaning you have to do Torah – not only “preach” it.

Reward

4 Nevertheless, you have a few names in Sardis who have not defiled their garments. And they shall walk with Me in

white, because they are worthy.

5 He who overcomes shall be dressed in white robes, and I shall by no means blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I shall confess his name before My Father and before His messengers.

6 He who has an ear, let him hear what

the Spirit says to the assemblies.

Though the assembly at Sardis was spiritually dead, there were a few individual members who had not been separated from YHWH by the “unclean spirit” that defiled the assembly as a whole.

         White clothes refer to holiness (Rev 19:8).

         Book of Life refers to everlasting life (Rev 20:12, 22:19).

         Some hold the doctrine of Once Saved Always Saved, but that doctrine is flawed when Y’shua says that He can blot names out of the Book of Life. Listen to Rev 22:18-19: 18, “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, Elohim shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this (Revelation) book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, Elohim shall take away his part out of the Book of Life, and out of the Holy City, and from the things which are written in this book”. (2 Peter 1:10-11)

         Y’shua is presently our advocate in heaven before YHWH, where He is pleading our case and confessing our names (1 John 2:1, Matt 10:32).

         One day you will stand before Y’shua who will be your judge if you are not saved (stay saved and follow Torah). (John 5:22).

         What will your answer be to the Judge who once pleaded your case as your advocate and you ignored Him?

Sixth Letter: Philadelphia (The Faithful Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

7 And to the messenger of the assembly in Philadelphia write,

Philadelphia means “brotherly love”.

         The believers in Philadelphia were not a strong    congregation.

         They faced a great deal of outside opposition and were financially poor.

         The main “god” of the Romans was the emperor Domitian at the time Yochanan wrote the Revelation about 95 CE.

         Many refused to worship him (such as Yochanan, and he was was banished to Patmos by the Emperor).

Timeline view: This is when the “revival” period started (period started in ±1860 C.E. with the birth of Theodor Herzl, the “Visionary of the State”. He was a Jewish Austro-Hungarian journalist and the father of modern political Zionism; and in effect, the State of Israel).

Character

description of Y’shua

He who is set-apart, He who is true, He who has the key of Dawid, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens, says this:

“The key of David” symbolizes authority (Isaiah 22:22; Rev 5:5, 22:16).

         Y’shua will open the door of opportunities for these set-apart Believers of Philadelphia.

         David was the King of Israel from whose throne the Messiah was prophesied to rule “forever” (Jer 33:17). These are the keys of the Kingdom, which the Messiah will open or close to whomever He pleases.

         Hold on to the Lion of Zion; study, do and teach Torah and you will find an open door!

Recognition

8 I know your works – see, I have set before you an open door, and no one is able to shut it – that you have little power, yet have guarded My Word, and have not denied My Name.

9 See, I am giving up those of the congregation of Satan, who say they are Yehudim and are not, but lie. See, I am making them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

10 Because you have guarded My Word of endurance, I also shall guard you from the hour of trial which shall come upon all

the world, to try those who dwell on the earth.

The Assembly at Philadelphia is commended because, although she is weak, she has kept Y’shua’s Word (John 5:46-47, the Torah) and has not denied His real name “Y’shua” although she probably has been under considerable persecution by both the Romans and the false Israelites (the “synagogue of satan,” as in Rev 2:9).

         He has opened a door to the Kingdom for her (some Believers suggest that this is a hint for the Rapture (Rev 4:1); please see theories below).

         And the Jews that persecute the Philadelphia Believers will have to worship at their feet, admitting that they are the true People of YHWH—the ones He has loved.

There is major confusion around verse 10. The Pre-Trib, Pre-Wrath, and the Post-Trib Rapture positions focus on the use of the Greek word “ek” and demonstrate that it can be used to indicate a removal from the dangers while being within a specific time of crisis. In these theories, these schools of thought agree that the Believers will be protected, either on Earth or in Heaven – the only difference is the distance between them. Then there is a third theory which makes you think again. Bottomline, this topic has no salvation relevance, rather it focuses on the work that needs to be done:

         Theory 1: The Post-Trib Rapture Believers believe they will stay on the earth  during the “hour of trial” when Y’shua will judge the earthdwellers and they will be fully protected by YHWH as the Israelites were protected in the Wilderness. They use the typology study of the exit from Egypt (the world system) and Pharoah (the Antichrist) and their protected journey through 42 points/stops in the Wilderness (indicating 42 months) and insist that it is substantial evidence that they will stay in sukkots (temperory dwelling huts) as the Israelites did during the “hour of trial”.

Pre-Wrath Trib Believers believe basically the same theory, only that the Rapture will happen just before the wrath of YHWH is poured out on the earthdwellers which is deep into the “hour of trial”.

         Theory 2: The Pre-Trib Rapture Believers believe that they will be Raptured before the “hour of trial” starts and before the Antichrist is made known to the world.

They motivate their theory based on more than one typology study:

          The Jewish Wedding Model informs that the Bride and the Groom must be “in” the Father’s Chuppah (wedding chamber) for a “Shavua” (period of seven) (Gen 29:22-25).

          We as Ten Tribers are Priests (1 Peter 2:9); therefore, there must be a Shavua for the Priests to be sanctified in a Tabernacle/Holy Place (Lev 8:33). Therefore, the “Shavua” in the Heavenly Tabernacle is the “exact same” period.

          Another is the appointed times of YHWH in Leviticus 23 which were established as yearly rehearsals that taught both historically and prophetically the whole plan of YHWH concerning the coming of Messiah and the redemption of man.

          The first four Feasts have been fulfilled not only to the day, but also to the hour. They are Passover (Pesach, death of Y’shua), Unleavened Bread (Hag ha Matzah, burial), First Fruits (Bukerim, resurrection after three days) and the Feast of Weeks/Pentecost (Shavuot, Ruach poured out fifty days later). The first four are symbolic of Y’shua’s First Coming and the last three are symbolic of His Second Coming: Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah, Pre-Trib Rapture), Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur, giving of rewards/crowns in Heaven) and Feast of Tabernacles (stay in temporary dwelling / Sukkot / Chuppah for Marriage Supper of the Lamb) in Heaven, “again” for one Shavua. Simcha Torah (Rejoicing in the Torah) is a one- day celebration which follows immediately after Sukkot (Tabernacles Feast/ Shavua in Heaven) and this is when the Believers will rejoice with Y’shua during the Olam Haba (Millennial Reign) and this is also the “exact same period” when a Groom is “not allowed” to go to war in the first year after marriage as per the Jewish Wedding Model.

          Another Shavua is Daniel’s peace-pact that will be signed (9:27) and all these “Shavuas” falls neatly in YHWH’s eschatological program.

          They continue to say it is a fact that the English Bible and is grossly mistranslated, the English Bibles say “I also will keep/gaurd you FROM (means out and away) the hour of temptation/trial (Tribulation), which shall come upon all the world, to try those who dwell on the earth” – in other words, you will escape it.

          Now remember the Revelation was first written in Hebrew, then into Greek then English. To get the correct meaning of the verse, you have to go back to the original Greek text as the Hebrew manuscript is non-existing. (In this case, the Greek to English interlinear KJV Bible by George Ricker Berry, Page 629 was used. The text is that of the 1550 edition of Stephanus with minor variations between it and the 1624 edition of Elzevir, which proclaims itself the “Textus Receptus”.)

          The original Greek is pronounced as “ek tes hores” here and means “out of the hour”. (Page 31 under the heading Greek-English New Testament Lexicon in the above-mentioned Bible, you will find “ek” meaning “out of” and implies “removal with an intensive force”, plainly speaking this is the Pre-Trib Rapture.

         Theory 3: Then there is a group of Believers suggesting something else: they say there are four issues to resolve in coming to an understanding of this verse 10.

What is the correct translation?

What is the hour of trial?

Who are the earth dwellers?

What does kept out from mean?

What is the correct translation?:

The punchline is to view it from a grammatical basis and not an eschatological approach. By changing a punctuation mark, it changes the impact of key words; and leading Greek Scholars agree that this translation following is more consistent with the original Greek: “And I will keep you from the hour of testing, that {hour} which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell upon the earth. As can be seen, this translation removes the conditional factor for being kept out from the hour of testing. This raises the question as to whether a “conditional” promise can “even” be made to the Assembly, let alone the “faithful” of the Assembly that they will be delivered THROUGH or OUT FROM this specific hour of testing. The validity of this translation adjustment is confirmed by the following analysis.

1. The contraction kago (and I, I also):

       The word kago is a contraction of two words.

       Kai, which means and, also or even; and ego, which is the pronoun I.

       The word kago indicates the fourth entry in a series of actions, which are indicated by the indicative mood of the respective verbs.

2. The conjunction hoti (because), which sometimes functions as the conjunction THAT:

       The most natural place for “because” (hoti) is “after” the clause it describes (although it can at times occur first).

       Here “because” occurs two times.

       Verse 8 - action and then the “because”.

       Verse 10 - action and then the “because”.

       But the English translations do not preserve that. (The difference between here and verses 3:16 and 17, where the action FOLLOWS "because", is because there, it is prefaced by SO THEN (houtos).

The message to the Assembly at Philadelphia starts with a simple statement of divine knowledge. I know your deeds. Then the body of the message revolves around four actions, all of which relate back to “I know your deeds”:

ACTION ONE, past:

Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut BECAUSE you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name.

ACTION TWO, future:

Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews, and are not, but lie -- (natural pause)

ACTION THREE, future:

Behold, I will make them to come and to bow down at your feet and to know that I have loved you BECAUSE you have kept the word of My perseverance. (This is perfectly correlated with John 14:21-24, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my Torah; and my Father will love him…”)

ACTION FOUR, future:

AND I will keep you from the hour of testing which is about to come upon the whole world to test those who dwell upon the earth.

COMMENTS:

1. The use of kago (and I, I also) indicates the next in a line of actions all indicated by the indicative mood of the verb.

2. To connect "I also" with the preceding causal clause is not consistent with the content. ALSO indicates SIMILARITY of action to what has preceded. However, there is no natural connection between "You have kept (obeyed)" and "I will keep you from". So, the ALSO idea is out of place. If the intent were to express the action that happens BECAUSE of the preceding statement, the KAI would not be necessary at all.

It would simply read, “because you have kept... I will keep.” To add ALSO (kai), is out of place and confusing.

3. At the same time, let it be said that the translation “I also” CAN be referring to the next of the actions in line. However, in English, it is not as smooth as “and I.”

4. The important issue is to recognize that whether one renders it AND I or I ALSO, it must naturally refer to the next of the actions in line, and not be the result of the causal clause.

5. What this does: it takes the CONDITIONAL factor out of the passage and leaves the simple promise of being “kept from the time of testing”.

         Notice the translation with emphasis on the orderly arrangement. Rev 3:8-10 ‘I know your deeds. BEHOLD, I HAVE PUT before you an open door which no one can shut, BECAUSE you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name. ‘BEHOLD, I WILL CAUSE {those} of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews, and are not, but lie —BEHOLD, I WILL MAKE them to come and bow down at your feet, and to know that I have loved you BECAUSE you have kept the word of My perseverance. AND I WILL KEEP you from the hour of testing, that {hour} which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell upon the earth. It does not help us identify that time of testing nor the mechanics of being kept, but it certainly makes it a blanket statement that has no CONDITIONAL factor of "faithfulness" associated with it. Some may not like the removal of that conditional factor, but it appears that an honest and normal reading of the text requires that the “because” clause goes with the actions mentioned before it and “not” after it.

Who are the earth dwellers?

To identify what the “hour of trial” is, we need to examine the very clear statement that describes the recipients of that hour. It says in Rev. 3:10 that the hour of trial is coming to test those who "dwell on the earth". This phrase is used 11 times in the Book of Revelation, and each time it refers to the unbelievers and those who are part of the beast's (Antichrist) kingdom. 3:10, 6:10, 8:13, 11:10 (2x), 13:8, 13:12, 13:14 (2x), 17:2, 17:8. The phrase is used by Yochanan to identify the wicked and the beast-followers. These are the ones seen as the killers of the martyred Believers in the fifth seal; these are the ones who follow after the beast and take his mark; these are the ones who engage in immorality with the great harlot. The fact that Yochanan uses this same phrase in Rev 3:10 strongly indicates that he is not talking about this "hour of trial" as coming upon Believers, but upon unbelievers. That is the purpose of the hour. There is a natural distinction between the Believers of the Assembly as represented by the Philadelphia Assembly, and those who dwell on the earth. Thus, the normal understanding of the passage is that there will be a group of Believers who will be delivered from a time of trial that will come upon a different group of people called the earth dwellers. They suggest the Assembly will remain on the earth into the 70th week of Daniel and indeed, into the second half of the week, as a fully functional representative of YHWH to the earth dwellers. During the time of the tribulation, which begins at the midpoint of the week, the Assembly will come under the persecution oppression of the Antichrist, and many will be martyred and forced into secrecy. There is no promise of deliverance from the persecution pressure of the tribulation. They say the Assembly will be delivered from those persecutions when Y’shua returns at the “Day of the Lord” – which is represented by the 6th seal at Rev 6:12-17. But this deliverance from the Antichrist is not the promise that is presented here at Rev 3:10. Furthermore, the time of persecution from the Antichrist, which is called the tribulation, is not a time of trial for the unbelievers. The tribulation is a time of trial and testings for Believers; but the HOUR OF TRIAL is NOT something that is coming upon Believers, but very clearly upon the unbelieving EARTH DWELLERS. The hour of trial, then, is a time for unbelievers to face the issues of Messiah worship vs. beast worship. And the things that challenge them are the many judgments that come from Y’shua’s wrath after the Rapture of the Assembly.

Shortfalls

None

Corrective Action

None

Challenge

11 See, I am coming speedily! Hold what you have that no one take your crown.

Hold on to your salvation till Y’shua comes, referring to the Rapture of the Assembly (as per the various theories’ timing).

         Although you are weak, do not give up! Hold on. I am coming quickly!

         Y’shua continues to encourage a sense of imminence.

         Although, from Earth’s perspective, it may be thousands of years until His return; from Heaven’s perspective, it is very soon – a blink of an eye compared to “eternity.”

         Although the Kingdom of YHWH is not yet physically actualized, the true Assembly of Believers is seen by Y’shua as royalty in the Kingdom (Rev 1:6), and He reassures the Assembly at Philadelphia that if she will “hold fast,” He will personally return to see to it that no one takes her crown.

         The assembly at Philadelphia is the unremarkable, not a very powerful Assembly who, nevertheless, faithfully holds to the truth amidst persecution and refuses to deny the name of Y’shua.

Reward

12 He who overcomes, I shall make him a supporting post in the Dwelling Place of My Elohim, and he shall by no means go out. And I shall write on him the Name of My Elohim and the name of the city of My Elohim, the renewed Yerushalayim, which comes down out of the heaven from My Elohim, and My renewed Name.

13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

Refers to spiritual citizenship – a city often honoured a notable citizen by erecting a pillar in a temple with his name on it.

         Y’shua also got a new name because of the covenant (Rev 19:12. Also see notes at Rev 2:17. The new name that no one can understand except the one who receives it.)

         This is a promise of the faithful Believer’s place in the ultimate, incredible Kingdom of YHWH /Kingdom of Heaven, where all becomes one in the Adonai Y’shua.

         See Chapters 21 and 22 for more details about how the Redeemed are identified with the Temple and the New Jerusalem that come down out of Heaven.

Seventh Letter: Laodikeia (The Lukewarm Assembly)

Category

Verse

Explanation

Name of Assembly

14 And to the messenger of the assembly in Laodikeia write

Laodikeia means “human rights”.

         Was originally a Greek city named Diospolis, the “City of Zeus”.

         Later, after being taken over by the Romans, it was on a major trade route between the Middle East and Ephesus; and was a very worldly, wealthy city.

         Loadicea was a wealthy textile town famous for its manufacturing of black woolen clothing, and for eye ointment.

         Also famous for a lukewarm supply of water     channeled from its hot springs.

         This town had a self-sufficient attitude that spilled over to the Assembly, an Assembly that evaluates themselves solely according to human standards.

         This Assembly followed a “prosperity gospel” that focused on their worldly wealth – like the modern-day “name it, frame it, and claim it” gospel. They believed that their success was evidence that they were pleasing YHWH and they were almost perfect.

         This Assembly is ruled by people and does not     submit under the authority of YHWH’s Word.

         The assembly at Laodikeia was one of the earliest to be established in Asia, probably because there was a large population of Jews there.

         Rabbi Sha’ul directed one of his letters to the assembly at Colossae, which was only eighteen kilometres from Laodikeia, also to be read in the assembly at Laodikeia (Col 4:16).

Timeline view: This Assembly is the general present day Assembly and is more concerned about human rights than what YHWH’s Word says. Criminals, Sodomizers and infant killers (abortions) have more rights than the righteous person today (Assembly from ±1900 C.E. with the arrival of automobiles, airplanes, etc. to date).

Character

description of Y’shua

The Amen, the Trustworthy and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of Elohim, says this:

Y’shua reinforces that He is the Creator God and the absolute truth and perfection (see Rev 1:5, 19:11).

He also the Beginning of Creation (John 1:1-3) and the True Witness (John 8:14).

Recognition

None, not even one word.

Shortfalls

15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I would that you were cold or hot.

16 So, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I am going to vomit you out of My mouth.

17 Because you say, ‘Rich I am, and I am made rich, and need none at all,’ and do not know that you are wretched, and pitiable, and poor, and blind, and naked.

The Assembly was not interested in the truth and righteousness (as taught by the Torah and explained by Y’shua); nor against falsehood, paganism and evil that is rampant in the Assembly.

         These things are an abhorrence to YHWH.

         The Greek word is “emeo”, from which we get the word emetic. An emetic is given to one who swallowed poison in the mouth in order to make him regurgitate.

         Think of it: hot water and cold water are both useful. Lukewarm water is useless; so is this Assembly to YHWH – YHWH will vomit this Assembly.

         This is the harshest sentence passed on any of the seven Assemblies, a total rejection by YHWH.

         This “vomit” is direct reference to Y’shua’s word in Matt 7:21-23: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Master, Master,’ shall enter into the reign of the heavens, but he who is doing the desire of My Father in the heavens. Many shall say to Me in that day, ‘Master, Master, have we not prophesied in Your Name, and cast out demons in Your Name, and done many mighty works in Your Name?’ And then I shall declare to them, ‘I never knew you, depart from Me, you who work lawlessness! (Torahlessness)’”.

         There are three groups of Believers. Great in the Kingdom, Small in the Kingdom, and those who think they are going to the Kingdom but will end up in Sheol.

         Great are the true Torah Teachers, Small is the sincere Believer that honestly doesn’t know that he must teach and do the Torah, this is the one that is small in the Kingdom. But the one who knows about YHWH’s Torah and blatantly teaches against the “Law” is the “lukewarm” Believer which the Scripture warns is a liar and there is no truth in him (1 John 2:3-4); and this Believer Y’shua will send to Hell eternal as seen above.

         This is a very rich Assembly and her Believers invests in earthly things. They preach a man-made prosperity gospel based on the accumulation of secular wealth and humanistic achievements (Hos 12:8). Does your congregation marry homosexuals or approve abortion – what is your stand towards Torah?

Corrective Action

18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, so that you become rich; and white garments, so that you become dressed, so that the shame of your nakedness might not be shown; and anoint your eyes with ointment, so that you see.

The Asembly was affluent in the things of this world, so much so that she was blind to her spiritual poverty and insensitive to her own miserable condition.

         The solution is to “buy from Me gold refined in the fire”, which means to give sacrificially and to suffer hardship for the sake of the Kingdom of YHWH – slave yourself for Messiah Y’shua and His Torah Teachings.

         Invest in heavenly things, in true salvation and the Grace of YHWH (Isaiah 55:1; 2 Cor 5:3).

         The Assembly have to release her grip on her possessions and dedicate them to the Gospel if she wants a real, spiritually vibrant relationship with YHWH (Luke 9:23).

         She needs to clothe herself with the righteousness of Y’shua (Rev 19:8) so that her covetousness not be revealed, and she must clear her vision with the Truth to see the Torah.

Challenge

19 As many as I love, I reprove and discipline. So be ardent and repent.

20 See, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I shall come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.

This Assembly must repent.

         Spiritual spankings are administered by YHWH in order that we might be zealous and repent or to change our thinking patterns (Heb 12:6).

         Y’shua stands at the door of His own Assembly and knocks (Luke 12:36-37; John 10:3).

         Y’shua loves His Lost Sheep so much that He died for His Bride. He is still knocking at the door of the House of Israel’s hearts, offering to come back in and fellowship with them in the Spirit if they will repent and open the door.

Reward

21 To him who overcomes I shall give to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

22 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies.

If you overcome you will sit one day with Y’shua at His throne as Bride to rule with Him.

         This is during the Olam Haba (Messianic Age, the thousand year peace-period – what a privilege (Rev 20:4; 1 Peter 2:9).

Summary of the Letters to the Seven Assemblies

We note there are only two Assemblies in line with YHWH’s will! The Smurna Assembly and the Philadelphia Assembly. To be in the Smurna Assembly, you will have to be in a country where any other religion, apart from Torah-observant Messianism (Messianic Judaism) is the dominating factor and here you will be heavily persecuted for your faith. The Philadelphia Assembly is a small but “on fire” Assembly for Y’shua; and studying, doing and teaching Torah.

Again, as is emphasized over and over in the Book of the Revelation, life in Messiah’s Priesthood is not a passive religion. It is a religion for workers, doers and overcomers “until the end” in the Kingdom of YHWH.

Y’shua never said, “If you love Me, just sit still and wait for My return”; no, He say:, “If you love Me, keep/guard (teach correctly) my commandments” (John 14:15).

Y’shua never said, “If you will just have faith, you will be saved”; no, He says:

       He who exercises patience and labours for His Name’s sake and does not become weary (2:3), and,

       Repents and does the first works (2:5) and,

       Hates the doctrines and deeds of the false teachers and prophets (1:6, 15) and,

       Holds fast to His Name and does not deny His faith (2:13) and,

       Works and loves and serves (2:19) and,

       Holds fast to what he has (2:25; 3:11) and,

       Keeps His works until the end (2:26) and,

       Is watchful and strengthens the things that remain and is ready to die (3:2) and,

       Remembers how he has received and heard (3:3) and,

       Keeps His command to persevere (3:10) and,

       Buys from Him gold refined in the fire and white garments and eye salve (3:18) and,

       Is zealous (3:19) and hears His voice and,

       Opens the door (3:20) and finally,

       Overcomes (2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 21),… to him, He will grant to sit with Him on His throne (3:21).

Some may object, “But that’s a work-your-way-to-Heaven religion” – to whom the reply is, “You do not understand the grace of YHWH and the relationship of the true Believer to YHWH the Son who said, ‘I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing’ (John 15:5).”

Gimel letter – Numerical value 3

Meaning (gimel): Loving kindness; culmination, as in planting a seed and caring for it until it matures (culmination – reaching its highest point).

Embedded in the Chapter: The ‘gimel’, the third letter of the hebrew aleph-beit, is the symbol of ‘calmness and culmination’. The gimel is cognate to ‘gamol’; which speaks of nourishing a planted seed until it matures and bears fruit. We can see both ‘kindness’ (as in Philadelphia) and ‘culmination’ (as in Laodikeia) depicted in this chapter.

The Philadelphia Assembly is the most desirable of the Assemblies in this chapter and represents precisely the qualities of ‘brotherly love’. In this respect, the gimel fits perfectly. This chapter also speaks of the culmination of the New Covenant age under the nature of the Ruach. That which began at Ephesus is brought to its conclusion in Laodikeia. Of all the chapters of the Revelation, this is the only one with 22 verses – having an alphabetic design of its own. It is fitting that the gimel chapter should follow the story of the Hebrew aleph-beit, since YHWH promises through the gimel that he will complete what he started. In other words, what YHWH has begun, he will bring to fruition.

The 7 letters to the Assemblies in chapter 2 continues into chapter 3 and is completed at the end of this chapter. The 7 letters speak of the 7 Assembly periods that the Assemblies were and are going through until such time when YHWH will say, ‘it is enough, time has run out’. YHWH started the New Covenant Assemblies at Shavuot and it is now, ±2 000 years later, at the end of the 7th Assembly period – the end of the culmination process. We are currently in the Laodikeia period, which is the last letter to the Assemblies, the 7th letter to the 7 Assemblies, the finality of Elohim. This is an exciting time-period we are living in, and we are anxiously awaiting Elohim to call us home.

Revelation Chapter 4

The Things Hereafter – Future Time

Introduction

Chapter 4 is the start of the last part of the entire prophecy which consists of the past, present and future time. It is the start of the prophetic future, which takes us to the end of chapter 22. From this period onwards, shocking events are going to happen, prophecies that will grip your shear awareness. In fact, it will happen in the last phase of the Laodikeia Assembly time (now our time) and will climax during the Tribulation. What you are about to read will shock you to the core…

The Bare Facts from Noah’s Time

To understand what is going to happen now in our time according to prophecy, we need to go all the way back to Noah.

In the time of Noah, some of the fallen angels (those that were thrown out of heaven long before the time of Noah (Isaiah 14:14-15, Rev 12:3-4) slept with the daughters of men and married them (Gen 6:1-8, Gen 19:1-11). The result of this wicked and ungodly mixture was called “Nephilim” in Hebrew, known as “giants” in English. They drowned with the flood and their evil spirits were released into what we call “demons” today.

Satan’s plan was to contaminate the human race’s bloodlines to prevent “The Seed” (Gen 3:15, Isaiah 7:14 – Y’shua) from being born through a pure and uncontaminated bloodline. YHWH knew what satan’s plan was, and this is the reason why He wiped the entire contaminated human race and His creation out. Only Noah and his family were found to be “…perfect in his generation” (Gen 6:9). The English word for “perfect” in Hebrew is “tamyim” and does not refer to morally right but bodily perfect, without blemish or blot and of pure stock. This meant that only Noah and his family were untainted by fallen angels; the rest of their generation were all half-human / half angel, the “giants” or the “Nephilim”. In other words, only Noah and his family’s bloodline were uncontaminated to ensure a pure bloodline for the Messiah.

When the Nephilim died, their evil spirits sought “embodiment” and do even today. YHWH says it will be like that again in the last days as in the days of Noah: 37 “And as the days of Noah, so also shall the coming of the Son of Adam be. 38 For as they (something abnormal – fallen angels) were in the days before the flood, eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage (doing abnormal things by them which they do not do in the spirit realm), until the day that Noah entered into the ark” (Matt 24:37-38). Daniel explained the exact same thing when he interpreted Nebukadnetstsar’s dream of the last and final empire just before Y’shua’s Second Coming, the Antichrist’s One World Government: “And as you saw iron mixed with muddy clay, they are mixing themselves with the seed of men, but they are not clinging to each other, even as iron does not mix with clay”.

It is a fact by Y’shua’s own mouth and Daniel’s prophecy that fallen angels will again “take wives for themselves”. These “Evil Spirits” still exist today and are better known as “aliens” or actually demons (this will be discussed in more detail in chapters 8, 9, 13, 16 and 19). Satan could not prevent Y’shua from coming the first time, and knows Y’shua is coming again for his Bride to take the Ten Tribes as wife at His return, as YHWH has a covenant with His people which He will honour (detail in introductory pages in this book). Satan will once again try with all his might to prevent Y’shua from returning by destroying the People of YHWH as he knows his judgment is shortly thereafter and he wants to evade this. That is why we are bombarded with “alien” toys, adverts, clothes etc. Even the rear ends of some cars look like “alien” eyes, etc.

We are being conditioned to accept this as normal. A platform is being created by the master deceiver for the infiltration of the hordes of hell that has already started. You will be shocked by the facts that are covered up over “alien” activities. Satan is actively busy with a strategy to deceive the human race with all kinds of “new age” theories to accept the “aliens” and to dispatch his angels and evil spirits to contaminate the whole human race once again (he deceived the world with Torah). The world will then turn against Elohim and rally against the the Twelve Tribes to wipe them out so that Y’shua will not have a Wife to return to. From now on, we are going to experience the severest persecution of Jewish people in history! His plan is to annihilate them! This way satan thinks he will miss his judgment and rule over the earth as god. But we know he will eventually meet his Waterloo at the Battle of Armageddon.

Activation at the Rapture (The following teaching does not promote a Pre, Mid, Pre-Wrath, or Post-Trib Rapture)

Immediately after the Rapture, panic-stricken people will desperately attempt to explain the mystery of the sudden disappearance of millions of people (Torah-observant Y’shua-followers) from planet earth. The enigma will even be more confusing when it becomes evident that large numbers of Christians, including eminent pastors and theologians, are among those left behind. The intensity and persuasive power of the spiritual deception that will be unleashed during this troubled time will be unequalled in the entire history of mankind. A prince of peace with world-reforming abilities will appear on the scene. He will capture the imagination of the distressed masses and gain their full support

The Hour of Darkness

The moment when the Rapture occurs, the light of the world will be gone. Great spiritual darkness will prevail after those who have witnessed for the true light (Y’shua HaMashiach) have left planet earth and are nowhere to be found. Panic will suddenly erupt, particularly in the traditional Christian world. Those who only had a form of godliness (Christianity) the agnostics and all the people who practised other religions will be perplexed and confused by this dramatic event. However, soon the most absurd and far-fetched explanations will be offered for the Rapture in an effort to calm their feelings and allay their fears. More treacherous lies will soon follow in an attempt to deceive humanity into believing satan’s account of the events.

Many Disappear Suddenly

How will the world explain this sudden disappearance of “reborn people”? Satan and his demons are presently busy gathering answers for this event. The answer that the world will give this will probably be as follows: “A great invasion of flying saucers from outer space took place and the Aliens kidnapped many people from the earth”. Don’t believe this! (This is for those who are left behind). Remember the Bible teaches that Y’shua HaMashiach will come and fetch YHWH’s children (1 Thes 4:13-17).

Alien Encounters in the New Age

What on earth is going on?! Alien encounters, aliens on TV, aliens everywhere. It seems like the human race and especially our youth are being bombarded with information regarding possible life on other planets and extra- terrestrial visitations.

Our youth and our congregations are asking questions – how should we answer these questions? Should they be ignored, so in time they may go away? It certainly does not seem as if the alien phenomenon is going away – it seems to be increasing in intensity. So how do we as parents and Teachers answer our young people when they ask these pertinent questions? Ignoring the subject is merely going to make the youth more inquisitive and leave the impression that adults don’t understand their concerns.

Today, even some scientists confirm that possibly there is life on other planets (which we refer to as fallen angels/demons – “the power of the air” Eph 2:2). Many Teachers give possible explanations on how aliens fit into the Scriptures and especially end time prophecy. In the last several decades, a number of experienced UFO researchers have drawn parallels with the nature of angels, demons and the UFO occupants. Indeed some have suggested that our alien visitors may indeed be fallen angels or demons themselves. Could that be the possible answer to the UFO question? If so, what is the motive behind trying to convince the world that UFOs do exist? To determine whether aliens are part of the angelic or demonic realm, we must first examine some of the attributes of angels and demons.

It is commonly believed that fallen angels and demons are one and the same. However, it turns out that ancient Rabbis and early Leaders believed that they were separate and distinctly different entities. When we examine the Biblical record, we see that attributes and activities of angels and demons are different. Angels (literally “messengers”) are creations of Elohim that have their own physical bodies. They are able to manifest in time and space and when they do, they are usually mistaken for men! For example, when Elohim and the two angels appeared to Abraham in the Terebinths of Mamre (Genesis 18), the angels are described as having the appearance of men. In fact they were so convincingly human that the homosexuals of Sodom and Gomorrah wanted to have sex with them.

The nature of demons is entirely different. They are disembodied and seek embodiment. The origin of demons is not commonly known in our time. However, in ancient times it was well-understood and generally excepted that demons were the disembodied spirits of the Nephilim (the earthborn giants of the days of Noah). They were the offspring of fallen angels and the “daughters of men”. According to numerous ancient Rabbinic and early Assembly text, when Nephilim died their spirits became disembodied and roamed the earth, harassing mankind and seeking embodiment (see Chapter 15 of the Book of Enoch). Angels (fallen angels) and aliens/demons share the ability to control human events and actions (1 Chron 21:1; 1 Thes 2:18; Dan 10:13). They share the ability to manipulate and control the minds of human beings (John 13:2; Matt 13:19,39). Finally, angels and aliens/demons have the power to defy the laws of physics.

It is important to note that most angels are “Messengers” of Elohim who bring glad tidings, warnings and prophecies. On the other hand, fallen angels attempt to deceive mankind through false messages and lying signs and wonders. It is interesting to note that aliens/demons do the same. During abductions and channelling experiences, aliens give so-called “we came to save the world” prophetic messages (which often are proven to be false); and they profess a benevolent purpose while doing painful experiments and performing immoral sexual acts with their human victims. A few years ago, Hollywood got into the act with alien/human sexual contact in movies such as “Michael” where an angel played by John Travolta had a sexual liaison with a human female. Y’shua warned us “as it was in the days of Noah, so it would also be in the days of the son of man” (Luke 17:26). In the days of Noah, the sons of YHWH (the fallen angels) lusted after the “daughters of men”. Why? Because satan wanted to contaminate the human race bloodlines to prevent “the seed” (Y’shua) from being born pure and perfect. As said, the Bible tells us that Noah was “perfect” before YHWH. This perfect referred to “bodily perfect”, which means “uncontaminated”; it never referred to righteous only! That was the main reason why YHWH destroyed the entire creation with a flood to rid the world of those interbred people.

Y’shua warns us that in the last days we will again have these foreign creatures, fallen angels and aliens/demons appearing on earth – but for what purpose? Y’shua warns us three times in Matthew 24 when He speaks about “end times” that we must watch out that we are not deceived and said: “See, I have told you before hand” the purpose is obviously for deception – to try and deceive the whole world if that were possible. According to alien researchers John Ankerberg and John Weldon, “…further, in light of the messages given by UFO entities, how credible it is to think that literally thousands of genuine extraterrestrials would fly millions or billions of light years simply to teach New Age philosophy, deny the one tue faith, Torah-observant Messianism, and support the occult? Why would they do this with the preponderance of such activity already occurring on this planet? And why would the entities actually possess and inhabit people just like demons do if they were really advanced extraterrestrials? Why would they consistently lie about things which we know are true, and why would they purposely deceive their contacts”?

Incredibly, these alien entities are said to enter in and “possess” their human contacts and fill their head with a pantheistic worldview, which denies the Elohim of the Scripture and all the essentials of historic Torah-observant Messianism. From the deity of Y’shua to the coming earth changes and the Rapture of the Bride, they deny it all.

Dan 7:43 Tells us that the last kingdom (of the Antichrist) has “ten toes mixed with iron and clay”. We know for a fact that iron does not mix with clay. The clay refers to fallen angels and aliens/demons, which is not natural to our habitat? Put that together with “it will be as in the days of Noah” as we already discussed, we can see clearly that unnatural events will occur in the last days. With the dawning of the 21st century, the interest in extraterrestrial life and UFO phenomena has reached an all-time high. We believe that the stage is set for the worship and reverence of alien entities, which will culminate in the greatest deception in the history of mankind. It is time that the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel woke up and realised we are facing a warfare in the spirit realm and all hell will soon break loose! With that as background, let’s move into chapter 4…

Summary of Chapter 4

Chapter 4 is the start of the last part of the entire prophecy which consists of the past, present and future time. It is the start of the prophetic future, which takes us to the end of chapter 22.

Theories Concerning the Tribulation and the Protection of the Bride

Please note that this book is not written to convince any Reader of any certain dogma; no, HRTI’s motto remains “We Inform, You Choose”.

Theory 1: Bride stays for entire period on the earth up to chapter 19, only then they will be Raptured and return with Y’shua for Armageddon. With her stay on earth during the entire Tribulation, she will be fully protected. The Tribulation period for some is seven years; and others in this group is three and a half years (Jacobs Trouble Jer 30:7; Dan 12:1).

Theory 2: Bride stays for entire period on the earth until YHWH’s time of wrath. They will then be Raptured and return with Y’shua for Armageddon. With her stay on earth during part of the Tribulation, she will be fully protected. The Tribulation period for them is seven years; and others in this group say only three and a half years.

Theory 3: Bride stays for entire period on the earth until the midpoint of the Tribulation period. They will then be Raptured and return with Y’shua for Armageddon. With her stay on earth during part of the Tribulation, she will be fully protected. The Tribulation period for some is seven years; and others in this group is three and a half years.

Theory 4: Bride will be removed from the earth before the Tribulation start for the entire Tribulation period up to chapter 19, then they will return with Y’shua for Armageddon. With her stay in Heaven during the entire Tribulation, she will fulfill the Shabuas for 1) the model of the Jewish Wedding Tradition, 2) the Feast of Tabernacles, 3) the sanctification for Priesthood in the Heavenly Tabernacle; and 4) Dan 9:27 Peace-Pact. The Tribulation period for them is a full seven years and the open door in Heaven here in Rev 4:1 is the start of it and the fulfillment of 1 Thess 4:17-18 (for a strong motivation on this, please get the book “Is there a Pre-Tribulation Rapture or Not?”).

Note:

Some Believers say they do not believe in the term “Rapture”. They argue that one cannot find the word “Rapture” in the Bible. Interestingly, one cannot find the term “Bible” in the Bible either. The word “Rapture” in English, comes from the Latin word raptus (“a carrying off”). The Greek is “harpazo”, which means “snatching away with an intensive force”, which appears in 1 Thess 4:17 (and Matt 11:12, 13:19, Acts 8:39, 23:10, Rev 12:5 and many other places).

1 After this I looked and saw a door having been opened in the heaven. And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me, saying, “Come up here and I shall show you what has to take place after this.”

2 And immediately I came to be in the Spirit and saw a throne set in the heaven, and One sat on the throne.

3 And He who sat there was like a jasper and a ruby stone in appearance. And there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance.

4 And around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and on the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, dressed in white robes. And they had crowns of gold on their heads.

5 And out of the throne came lightnings, and thunders, and voices. And seven lamps of fire were burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of Elohim.

6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass, like crystal. And in the midst of the throne, and around the throne, were four living creatures, covered with eyes in front and in back.

7 And the first living creature was like a lion, and the second living creature like a calf, and the third living creature had a face like a man, and the fourth living creature was like a flying eagle.

8 And the four living creatures, each having six wings, were covered with eyes around and within. And they do not cease, day or night, saying, “Set-apart, set-apart, set-apart, YHWH El Shaddai, who was, and who is, and who is coming!”

9 And when the living creatures give esteem and respect and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever,

10 the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and bow before Him who lives forever and ever, and they cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

11 “You are worthy, O YHWH, to receive esteem and respect and power, for You have created all, and because of Your desire they are, and were created.”

“After this” in Greek is “meta tauta”. Referring to after the things of the Assemblies that Yochanan saw in a vision.

        The Revelation was given to Yochanan in more than 40 individual visions and/or sounds that he saw and heard, in a series of six units.

        Those six units are separated by the phrase, “After these things”, which also occurs at 7:1, 7:9, 15:5, and 18:1.

        The first unit of Revelation to Yochanan is contained in 1:1-3:22; the second unit is 4:1-7:8; the third unit is 7:1-7:8; the fourth unit is 7:9-15:4; the fifth unit is 15:5-17:18; and the sixth unit is 18:1-22:21.

       Against Pre-Trib Rapture Theorists: A key to understanding Revelation is to know that each shift from one unit of revelation to the next does not necessarily indicate a change from one time period to the next, but indicates a change in point of view or subject matter. “After these things” combined with “I looked”, “I saw”, or “I heard” indicates a change in visions or perspectives; whereas, “after these things” or “after this” (as at the end of this verse or in 9:12) without the change of perspective addendum indicates a change in time periods.

       Pre-Trib Theorists: “After this” is meta tauta in Greek, and it refers to “after the New Covenant period is past”. The Bride from now on is in Heaven. The trumpet here is the same as the trumpet of 1 Thes 4:16; 1 Cor 15:52. All three verses refer to the same trumpet of Elohim that will be the last trumpet for the Bride and the last trumpet on Yom Teruah (Day of Blowing/Feast of Trumpets). From now on, you never read of the Bride on earth again until Rev 19:11. This simply means that the Bride is Raptured away immediately after the first voice spoke.

        “A door open in heaven” means a real opening or entrance into heaven that Yochanan had gone up into heaven.

        The “first voice” is Y’shua’s voice (Rev 1:10-11).

Yochanan was taken up “in the spirit” into Heaven to see what is going to happen after the New Covenant period.

        “In the spirit” is a Hebrew idiom that means “in a vision or trance”.

        This throne is also the “bema” seat which Sha’ul referred to in 2 Cor 5:10. Around the Greek Olympic stadiums were huge pavilions. There was a certain pavilion specially reserved only for the elite guests. In this pavilion, there was a special raised platform or stage, the official seat “bema” of the judge of the games. All the winners were brought to this special platform and congratulated by the elite guests, and rewarded with a laurel wreath. The same will happen to the reborn Believer one day; it is only the reward that will be different. Sha’ul refers to this place and uses the Greek word “bema”. We do not have a word for it in English and ‘judgment seat’ was used that sends out a totally wrong message. The result is that we think the Believer will be standing in front of a court bench and see a picture of a stern judge clothed in red, ready to sentence him. The truth is that the Believer will after then find himself in front of the “Bema seat” where his deeds will be judged and receive his reward/rewards (crown/crowns). This will take place in front of Y’shua HaMashiach in Heaven.

There is only one other record in Scripture of YHWH the Father seated on the throne, and that is Dan 7:9-10, and the glory that Yochanan beheld was indescribable.

        YHWH dwells in unapproachable light and is One whom no one has seen or can see (1 Tim 6:16).

        The closest that one could get to a description of YHWH’s excellence and brightness, was to compare it with radiant precious stones.

        Jasper is a crystal clear stone like a diamond and symbolises purity and Sardius is deep red and symbolizes the blood of the Lamb (as the Son is also a manifestation of the Father, but in the flesh).

        In the TaNaCh, we find other significance for them. Each of the twelve tribes of Israel was represented by a gemstone. Reuben (means “behold, a son”), Jacob’s first-born son, was represented by the jasper (crystal clear). Benjamin (means “son of my right hand”), Jacob’s twelfth son, was represented by the sardius, a beautiful red stone. So, the stones represent YHWH the Son in purity (crystal clear jasper) and redemption (the blood-red sardius), who is the First and the Last.

        The rainbow around the throne forms a circle, which symbolises never-ending. It is also a reminder of YHWH’s covenant with us (Gen 9:12-17).

        Emerald is green and symbolises eternal life.

The identification of the 24 elders has been the subject of endless debate, largely because of some confusion among Bible translations. The 24 elders thus can mean one of the following theories:

        Theory 1: They can represent the Priesthood of the Old Covenant (1 Chron 24:1-19).

        Theory 2: They can be a representation of 12 Patriachs out of the TaNaCh and 12 Apostles out of the New Covenant.

        Theory 3: They can represent the 12 Tribes of Israel and the 12 Apostles of Y’shua, as will be written in the New Jerusalem (Rev 21:10-14).

        Theory 4: This means the Believers who were resurrected immediately after the resurrection of Y’shua (Matt 27:52) and ascended into Heaven with Y’shua and are the 24 elders. This make them the “firstfruits” (James 1:18) of those resurrected who are dead in union with the Messiah, just as the 144,000 will be the “firstfruits” of those sealed as the Redeemed of YHWH (Rev 14:1, 4).

        White robes indicate they are righteous (Rev 19:8).

       Post-Trib Theorists say: “Because the 24 elders are wearing white robes (purity) and golden crowns (royalty), and are sitting on thrones (only YHWH the Father, YHWH the Son, and the Redeemed are seen in other parts of Scripture as sitting on thrones in the Kingdom of Heaven), this refers to the Olam Haba, Messianic Age – a picture of the future. There are twelve Patriarchs in ancient Israel and twelve Apostles of the Assembly whom Y’shua promised would sit on twelve thrones with Him judging the Twelve Tribes of Israel (Matt 19:28).”

       Pre-Trib Theorists say: “This provides powerful evidence that these beings are Raptured Believers in Heaven, since we do not receive our glorified bodies when we die. This event with these 24 elders sitting here must then be after the Rapture (1 Thes 4:13-17). Crowns also tell us that they already received their rewards, which will take place in Heaven immediately after the Rapture. This cannot refer to the Olam Haba as the Messianic Reign will be on earth from Jerusalem and the song that they sing here in Heaven (5:9-10): “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals… and we shall reign on the earth.” All this plays off before Y’shua opens the scroll with the seal judgments during the Tribulation and the song says we will reign on the earth, not in Heaven.”

This is the awesome power of Elohim that shoots out of the throne.

        Lightnings, thunderings, and voices in Scripture are the signs of the awesome presence of YHWH.

        There were also lightnings, thunderings, and a sound of a trumpet so loud from Mount Sinai when the Torah was given and Israel was established as YHWH’s Bride that all the millions of people in the camp at the base of the mountain trembled (Exod 19:16).

        Fire is a sign throughout Scripture of the Spirit of YHWH active in the purification of His People and the destruction of His enemies.

        “Seven Spirits” is explained in Rev 1:4 and 3:1.

This is the unapproachable floor of YHWH’s throne, His absolute majesty.

        Before a worshipper can draw near to the throne, he/she must be cleansed and sanctified (Heb 12:14) through the “crystal sea” as the Priests in the TeNaCh had to wash themselves before entering YHWH’s Presence (1 Kings 7:23); a huge wash basin for the cleansing of priests.

        This sea mingled with fire (15:2) will possibly also be the place where your works will be tested with fire for your rewards (1 Cor 3:13).

        They should never be called beasts as some translations say; but rather, creatures.

        The term “beasts” is “Zoon” in Greek, which means “living creature” and is literally “created beings”.

        These are called Cherubim and are the highest ranking angelic beings.

        They are assigned to guarding and bearing Elohim’s throne (Psalm 99:1).

        They are also associated with the worship of El Shaddai (God Almighty).

        This is the reason why Elohim instructed Moshe to make two Cherubim to guard the mercy seat of the ark (Exod 25:18; 37:7-9), to enable us to understand how the throne of Elohim looks in Heaven.

        They also guarded the entrance to the Garden of Eden, where Elohim dwelt (Gen 3:24). You will also find them in Ezek 1:4-28 and 10:1-22 (They must not be mistaken for Seraphim, who are literally “burning ones” as in Isaiah 6:2).

       “In the “midst of the throne” (also 5:6 and 7:17) is difficult to visualize. The Greek word (mesos) can also mean “amongst”. It can also mean in the center of the throne room, in front of and around the throne.

        “Covered with eyes” indicates unceasing watchfulness, meaning they are alert and always ready to protect.

There are various theories concerning the four creatures:

       Theory 1: They refer to the four Gospels, and they stand between YHWH and the 24 elders. In Matthew, Y’shua is described as the lion - Y’shua as King in a Kingdom. In Mark, Y’shua is described as the calf - Y’shua seen as a servant. In Luke, Y’shua is described as the perfect man in normal life. In John, Y’shua is described as the eagle because He is the Son of YHWH coming from Heaven in all His glory.

        Theory 2: It can also refer to the four divisions of the Israel camp around the Tabernacle (Num 2:1-34; Gen 49). On the east was Judah with two tribes behind him - their emblem was a lion. On the west was Ephraim with two tribes behind him - their emblem was a calf. On the south was Reuben with two tribes behind him - their emblem was a man. On the north was Dan with two tribes behind him - their emblem was an eagle. They had to camp around the Tabernacle to protect it and Yahweh’s dwelling place is in the centre (Num 2:3, 10, 18, 25).

       Theory 3: The Cherubim may also represent the aspects of creation. The lion represents the wild animals and/or nobility. The calf represents the tamed animals and/or strength. The man represents human beings and/or wisdom. The eagle represents the birds and/or swiftness. Is it possible that Lucifer/the snake represented the cold-blooded animals, but because he was thrown out of heaven they are not represented here at the throne?

        Theory 4: From Biblical and extra-Biblical sources (the book of Enoch) that the four creatures are the four archangels: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel.

        The creatures in Ezek 1 and 10 only had four wings – these have six.

All they do is to worship YHWH day and night.

       Nothing illuminates and enriches the soul more than worship.

       Believers should get used to the ultimate praise and worship, as we are going to do that in Heaven. Your primary purpose, why you were created, is to worship YHWH and study His Word. The reason you worship YHWH is to get “recharged” or to get “lifted up”. If you do not know how to worship, you do not know how to live, period.

       The two roles of the four creatures are to worship YHWH 24/7 (4:8; 5:9, 10, 12, 14; 7:12; 19:4) and to direct John’s attention to what happens on Earth when the first four seals are broken (6:1; 3, 5, 7) and assist with the bowl judgments in chapters 15 and 16.

Do you realise what is happening here at the throne? They totally surrender. The scene is one of the most moving in the whole of Scripture.

        The crowns are the rewards that they received.

        The reason why they throw their crowns away is because they admit that they are not worthy to receive the crowns.

        In biblical times, a monarch reigned from his throne. It is a symbol of authority, meaning the final seat of authority is in heaven (Heb 1:8).

Both the angels and the elders praised YHWH for creating them. (This proves there will be no evolutionists in heaven. Instead, they will join up with Darwin in singing songs about their ancestors, the monkeys, in a place where air conditioning does not exist!)

        All things were created and are sustained by Him (John 1:1-3; Col 1:16-17).

In the middle of chapters 1 to 7 is chapter 4; and here we find another Hidden Menorah. It describes YHWH’s glory on the throne.

Facts on the Restrainer, the Fighter against Lawlessness?

1. It is something already known (2 Thes 2:6).

2. It now obstructs/fights lawlessness (Torah-lessness) (2 Thes 2:6-7).

3. It is strong enough to prevent the revelation of the Antichrist (2 Thes 2:6-8).

4. It will hinder/fight lawlessness (Torah-lessness) until it is removed out of the way (2 Thes 2:7-8).

5. It is called “he” (2 Thes 2:7).

6. It will be removed out of the way before the Second Coming (2 Thes 2:7-8).

7. It will be here, but only be removed out of the way, when Y’shua comes to destroy Antichrist (2 Thes 2:7-8).

Facts why YHWH’s Ruach is The Restrainer, The Fighter against Torah-lessness

In verse 7 of 2 Thes 2:6-8 says “only until he who now restrains comes out of the midst (taken out of the way)”.

The Greek word “Hoketechon” means the one who unhinderedly restrains. It cannot be the ‘the Church’ (in other words, the focus here is not on the Church as Christians say, or the Assembly for the Messianics). The Greek word for Assembly is “Ekklesia” and it is a feminine word. If the Assembly was the restrainer, then the Greek would have read “Ho Katechon” (the one that restrains). “Katecho” refers to the Ruach, the “Comforter” a masculine word here. The substantive noun is “Katecho” derived from “Kata” (back) and “Echo” (I hold). Here we get the blessed fact that it is indeed the Ruach of YHWH that keeps satan’s work of the Torah-lessness of the Antichrist back – this is what “Katechon” present participle teaches us. It is an uninterrupted, continuous action day after day, year after year (read 1 Cor 10:13 – You will not be tempted beyond your abilities); but there is a period when it will stop. In 2 Thes 2:6-8 the restraining/protecting role of the Ruach is referred to as being removed. The Ruach will not and can not be totally removed during the Tribulation period because Rev 7:9-17 clearly states that a multitude will be saved; and John 3:5-8; Rom 8:9 and Eph 2:18 declare that no man can be saved unless he is ministered to by the Ruach of YHWH.

Dalet letter – Numerical value 4

Meaning (dalet): The door; the way.

Embedded in the Chapter: The 4th letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit fits perfectly in this chapter. ‘Dalet’ stands for a ‘door’ or ‘way.’ That is exactly what we see as Yochanan writes, “after this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven” (4:1).

This is no ordinary door. The ‘door’ is the meaning of the 4th Hebrew letter. It offers, not just a simple opening, as seen in the ‘door’ of a Assembly, but a passage from the earthly plain to the heavenly realm. In fact, Y’shua uses the term ‘door’ in ‘I stand at the door and knock’ (3:20), to point out the vast differences between the two uses of the term. The ‘door… opened in heaven’ (4:1) meets the criteria of the ‘dalet’ as the most important letter of the first 7 Hebrew letters. For many, this is speaking of the Rapture of the Bride into heaven.

Yochanan saw the First Advent of Y’shua, and YHWH gave him the visions to describe the futuristic Second Advent. Y’shua came to show and teach ‘the way’ (Torah), then He told the people He is ‘the way’ (Living Torah) (John 14:6); and now He makes ‘the way’ and Yochanan is blessed to see it all.

Revelation Chapter 5

The Throne Room

(continue)

Background

The original Bible was written without chapters and verses. Chapters and verses were not inspired by the Ruach; it is for assisting one in finding texts only – and it only came into existence five hundred years ago. Sometimes they break the continuity of a study; such is the case at this point. There should not have been a break between chapters 4 and 5.

1. And I saw in the right hand of Him who sat on the throne a scroll written inside and on the back, having been sealed with seven seals.

2 And I saw a strong messenger proclaiming with a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and to loosen its seals?”

3 And no one in the heaven or on the earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll, or to look at it.

4 And I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll, or to look at it.

5 And one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. See, the Lion of the tribe of Yehudah, the Root of Dawid, l overcame to open the scroll and to loosen its seven seals.”

6 And I looked and saw in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders a Lamb standing, as having been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of Elohim sent out into all the earth.

7 And He came and took the scroll out of the right hand of Him sitting on the throne.

8 And when He took the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the set-apart ones.

9 And they sang a renewed song, saying, “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals, because You were slain, and have redeemed us to Elohim by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,

10 and made us sovereigns and priests to our Elohim, and we shall reign upon the earth.”

11 And I looked, and I heard the voice of many messengers around the throne, and the living creatures, and the elders. And the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands,

12 saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb having been slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and respect and esteem and blessing!”

13 And every creature which is in the heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying, “To Him sitting on the throne, and to the Lamb, be the blessing and the respect and the esteem and the might, forever and ever!”

14 And the four living creatures said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and bowed before Him who lives forever and ever.

“Right hand” symbolises authority.

        Theory 1: “Written inside and on the back”: It was the custom in Israel to record the inheritance on a scroll. Also, when you purchased land in Biblical times, the conditions, land area, covenantal terms and price were written in the front and the back of the scroll (a title deed). This deed was then sealed with 7 seals. Y’shua is the owner of the title deed of not only the world, but the cosmos – because He paid the price. As long as the title deed of the earth is sealed, satan will be in complete control of the planet.

        Theory 2: This is the same scroll that Daniel was told to seal “…until the time of the end” (Dan 12:4). Just before he was told to seal the scroll, it was made known to him that at the time of the end a “king” would come who would “…do according to his own will: he shall exalt and magnify himself above every god, shall speak blasphemies against the Elohim of gods, and shall prosper till the wrath has been accomplished” (Dan 11:36)

This “strong angel” appears to be in a special class of angels with Michael the archangel.

        Strong angels are also seen in connection with two other momentous events in the Revelation; the proclamation that there would be no more delay (in the execution of YHWH’s judgments) (10:6) and the prophecy of the final destruction of Babylon (18:21).

The importance of Y’shua taking the scroll to take the administration of the cosmos over is highlighted in the fact that no one in all of YHWH’s creation was found worthy to open it, and Yochanan wept bitterly because of that.

        “Under the earth” (also in 5:13) refers to under the surface of the earth (Exod 20:4) or to the realm of the dead or of demons (Phil 2:10). (Many conspirators indicate that this refers to what is called the abode of the reptilian.)

Yochanan was told by one of the elders not to weep, Yochanan expected to see a lion when he lifted his eyes, but instead he saw a Lamb “as it had been slain”.

        The moment the Lamb takes the scroll, Heaven breaks out in jubilation, meaning the Lamb possesses all that is necessary for our redemption, Y’shua is the Lamb and also the Lion out of the Tribe of Yehudah (Judah). The emblem of the Tribe of Yehudah is the lion (Heb 7:14). These statements are used to denote the significance of the incarnation of Y’shua (Isaiah 11:1, 10, Jer 23:5, Luke 1:32). Y’shua had to become man – lower than an angel (Heb 2:9) to redeem His Lost Sheep.

        The Two Pictures of the Messiah: In the TaNaCh, there are two different pictures painted of the Messiah — one suffering (Isaiah 53:2-10, Ps 22:6-8, 11-18) which is the Lamb, and one reigning as King (Ps 2:6-12, Zech 14:9,16) which is the Lion. As we look back on these Scriptures, we see they predicted two separate comings of the Messiah—the First Coming as a suffering Messiah and the Second Coming (still future) as a reigning King. There are a total of 324 Messianic prophecies. Y’shua fulfilled the 65 prophecies as prophesied unprecedented at His First Coming, there must be a literal Second Coming and Olam Haba for Y’shua to fulfill the rest, 259 prophecies, this is the “Lion” picture of Y’shua prophecies.

The Greek translation for lamb here is “arnion” which means “little or baby lamb” (all the estimated one billion lambs that had been       offered since Gen 3:21 pointed to “The Lamb” to come (Isaiah 53, John 1:29).

        Three of the Bible’s witnesses of YHWH the Son come together in one magnificent description: the Lion of Judah (Hos 5:14), the Root of David (22:16), and the Lamb of YHWH (Gen 22:8; John 1:36);and although He was YHWH the Father’s helpless, sacrificial Lamb, He now lives with all the attributes of YHWH, confirming that the Son and the Father are One (John 1:18, 10:30). Another witness showing that the Son and the Father are One are the seven spirits of YHWH, who belong to the Son as well as to the Father (1:4).(See explanation of 7 Spirits in 3:1).

        Here we are told in this verse that the “7 Spirits” are being sent out into all Earth (7 continents) in their roles as the active omnipotence with all power (the horns – Matt 28:18) and omniscience (the eyes – Heb 4:13) of the Lamb.

Only the Lamb is worthy to take the scroll out of the right hand (the symbol of power and authority) of the Father.

        In other words, Y’shua comes with the authority of YHWH.

        There is only One that can be seen on the throne; that is, Y’shua; because YHWH is Spirit and can’t be seen (John 4:24), and Y’shua and YHWH as said is one (John 10:30, 14:9, Deut 6:4), echad in Hebrew. YaH-shua also said He came in His Abba’s Name, in the Name YaHoWaH (John 5:43) and the short form for YHWH is YaH (Ps 68:4), YaH-Shua (shortened Y’shua) and means “YaH saves”. There are also seven “I AM” statements in the Gospel of John, which is reference to “I AM THAT I AM” (Exod 3:16).

The 24 elders worship YHWH the Son who is worthy to open the scroll’s seals because He has paid the ultimate price for the redemption of the Lost Sheep.

        We will see in Rev 14:2 and in Rev 15:2 that every redeemed Believer will have a harp. (If YHWH allows so many harps (musical instruments) in heaven, let’s not consider it unheavenly to have musical instruments in our meeting places. Read Psalm 150.)

        King Saul was pleased by David’s harp playing—1 Sam 16:23, and the Son is pleased by the prayers of the Believers, which are prayers for deliverance and vengeance (6:10), and every prayer of every Believer that ever lived is sweet incense before Y’shua (8:3-4 and Psalm 141:2).

A song celebrated a new act of deliverance or intervention in the TaNaCh. All songs are written in the feminine form (“Shirasha Shidasha”) because a song is like a woman – “sad” because of the birth pains, and glad because of the child who is born. The “new song” or “renewed song” here is written in the masculine form (“Shir Shidash”) because there is no more sadness, only gladness.

        The beginning of the events of the Tribulation with the breaking of the seals is the occasion for the singing of the new song celebrating the redemption of the Lost Sheep and their soon-coming reign on the millennial earth (explained in the commentary on Chapter 20).

        This is a song of redemption, sung only by the Believers (refer to verse 10, “made us kings and priests”) as angels are not redeemed (Psalm 96). (The 144 000 Tribers will also sing a new song in heaven when they are redeemed (14:3).)

        Salvation is for everybody who comes into Covenant with YHWH (details in the inroductory pages in this book).

        The song is in appreciation of the fact that Y’shua was slain on Golgotha to allow the Ten Tribers to be restored and to become the Bride again (1 Peter 1:19).

A Hebrewism for countless numbers is used here – ”Myriads of myriads and chiliads of chiliads”. They surround the Lamb Who is in the “midst of the throne” (5:6).

        There are three distinct classes present:

1. Messengers (Angels) (Heb 1:4-14, 12:22).

2. Living Creaures (Cherubim) or “zoa” in Greek (4:6-9).

3. 24 Elders (4:4).

The worthiness of the Lamb is perfectly summed up in seven fold ascriptions of the Lamb:1) Power-omnipotence, 2) Riches-possessions, 3) Wisdom-omniscience, 4) Strength-ability,                5) Honor-reputation, 6) Glory-praise, and 7) Blessing-worship.

        At this point, Phil 2:9-11 will be fulfilled.

This is the grande finale: “every creature” in Heaven, on the Earth, under the Earth, and in the seas worship both YHWH the Son and YHWH the Father!

        Four-fold ascriptions of YHWH and Y’shua: 1) Blessing-worship,      2) Honour/respect-reputation, 3) Glory/esteem-praise, and 4) Power/might-omnipotence. (Read what David said in 1 Chron 29:10-15).

        Five songs in total are sung in chapters 4 and 5:

1. Song of adoration - 4:8

2. Song of Elohim’s creative power - 4:11

3. A new song by the Believers - 5:9-10

4. A song by the Messengers - 5:12.

5. A song sung by the whole creation - 5:13

Amen means “Yes” or “So be it!” How wonderful it is when a congregation responds to someone’s prayer with a vigorous “AMEN”! (Sad to say, this practice seems to be dying out in the meetings, but I am glad to know it is still practised in Heaven.)

        “Forever and ever” left out in some Bibles – check your Bible.

Hay letter – Numerical value 5

Meaning (he or hay): The Breath or Spirit of YHWH.

Embedded in the Chapter: The theme of the 5th letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit – the ‘hay’ – means the ‘breath of YHWH’. There are two ‘hays’ in the name of YHWH reading from right to left, yod, hay, vav, hay. In the Divine Name, the ‘yod’ speaks of the ‘unseen hand of Elohim’ in creation.

According to Rabbi Michael l. Munk in his book, ‘The Wisdom of the Hebrew Alphabet’, yod is ‘a symbol of creation and is metaphysical’. The Jewish Talmud explains, ‘God created the universe with the letters ‘yod’ and ‘hay’. With the yod He created the world to come; while with the hay, He created this world’ (Manachos 29b).

Our attention is now at last drawn to the mysterious ‘hand’ of Elohim holding the seven-sealed scroll. Even now, the yod remains strictly metaphysical (not of this world). Therefore, Yochanan was taken into the heavenly realm to see it. The yod may be read homiletically as ‘yad’, meaning ‘hand’ (page 129 of his book) and is clearly seen in this chapter as being associated with the hay. In Revelation cahpter 10, the ‘yod’ chapter, we again observe the marvelous metaphysical ‘hand’ (verse 2), holding the open scroll.

The two ‘hays’ in the Name of YHWH stand for the whole of history, redemption from beginning to end. A small, half-size hay can be seen in the text of Gen 2:4 immediately following the 7th day wherein Elohim rested. It appears to ‘mark’ the beginning of world history following creation. Now get this, there is a large double-size hay in Deut 32:6 at the beginning of the 5759th verse of the TaNaCh, which appears to be marking the conclusion of the 6th millennia in 5760 years. Now the Jewish calendar year 5760 coincides with the western calendar year 2000. Both numbers stand for the conclusion of the 6th millennia – the 5760 being the biblical number and 2000 being the secular number.

The 6 days of Genesis stands for creation, and the following 6 millennia represents the process of redemption. The significance of the 6 days may be seen in the fact that there are 24 hours in a day, making a total of 144 hours in 6 days. These hours seem to represent 144 “mature” generations of human history, each one calculated by a 40-year period, making a total of 5760 years. What is even more exciting is that the year 2001 was recognised as the year of the ‘mikveh,’ a special purification ceremony for Believers (water purification). This will blow your mind; this is when precisely 5760 egg shells full of water must be thrown into the ‘mikveh’ for the Believer to be able to take the special purification bath. Isn’t it amazing that it occurred also in the year following the year 5760 or 2000 C.E.

Today, mankind has arrived at the end of the 6th millennium of its history. The ‘great shabbah’ (rest), the 7th 1000-year period is about to be introduced. The ‘Kingdom of Heaven is at hand’. The ‘Lion of the Tribe of Judah’  has taken upon Himself the work of the ‘Lamb as it has been slain’. In Rev 5:13, all attention now turns to Y’shua who takes the scroll to open it. When this happens, “every creature (every living being that ‘breathes’) which is in heaven, and on earth and under the earth, and such that are in the sea”,  praises YHWH and Y’shua . The ‘hay’ (which stands for the Breath or Spirit of YHWH) has several aspects in its meaning. For example, it is taught that all humanity stands in the courtyard of the ‘hay’ with two possible decisions. Man takes the broad way that leads downwards to destruction, or the narrow way as seen in the upper corner of the hay to eternal life.

In verse 6, Y’shua is seen as the Lamb (‘arnion’ in Greek, which means a baby lamb), but with 7 horns (meaning full power), 7 eyes (unceasing watchfulness or knowledge and wisdom) and 7 spirits. The ‘7’ only refers to the perfection of the one Ruach, there is only one Spirit of YHWH. The ‘7’ refers to the perfect manifold energies of the one Ruach, ministering to the 7 Assemblies at the same time, and here in chapter 5 we find the ‘Spirit of YHWH’ is revealed in His fullness.

Revelation Chapter 6

The Seal Judgments

Background

It is interesting to note that when the world was destroyed by the flood, YHWH instructed Noah and his family (seven days before the time) to go into the ark (Gen 7:1-4); YHWH then Himself sealed the door and nobody could open it (Gen 7:16). Now when the world is judged again, it is only Y’shua that can break the seven seals and open the scroll.

This chapter introduces us to the Antichrist (some believe in a person and some believe in a system); while chapter 13 deals with his character and work. Except for 1 John 2:22 and 1 John 2:18, the Bible never specifically refers to the coming leader as the “Antichrist”. The term, “Antichrist” has been used by students of prophecy throughout history. It is clearly an appropriate term, for it captures the essence of the work of this individual and/or system. From chapter 6 to 18, we witness firsthand the events which take place upon the earth during the Tribulation. This presentation occupies nearly two-thirds of the Revelation - a subject of 13 chapters. Please study the next three Bible verses, which describe this hour of horrendous judgment: Jer 30:7; Dan 12:1 and Matt 24:21. These texts inform us of the fact that the Tribulation will constitute earth's bloodiest hour.

The two main theories concerning the timing of the releasing of the plagues are given in the diagram above.

Theories on the Antichrist

Theory 1: The Antichrist cannot be a physical person, but a world system to dominate and control the people; i.e., the Vatican that controls the entire world through the Jesuits.

Theory 2: The Anichrist will be a physical person but will also use the system as above to control the people to his benefit. The Antichrist will be accepted as the Messiah according to Y’shua’s words in John 5:43 as the world is already crying out for a person to sort the chaos of the world out. This false messiah will come with a One World Government, Religion and Monetary system – which is known as the New World Order (NWO). He will arrange extensive diplomatic peace initiatives, which will allow the Jewish Temple to be rebuilt; and this is one of the major reasons why the Jewish people will accept him as the messiah.

If you believe Theory 2 then proceed to read the next section below; if not, please skip it…

Twenty-one Facts about the Antichrist according to Sha’ul in 2 Thes 2:3-12

1)       Called the man of sin because he will be the embodiment of lawlessness and leader of evil, Torah-less (Rev 6:3, 8-12, 13:1-18, 14:9-13).

2)       Called the son of perdition, because of being destined to destruction by his rebellion, like Judas or any other man who sells himself to satan (Rev 6:3, 8-12, 13:2; Dan 8:24, 11:37-39).

3)       He is to be revealed (Rev 6:3).

4)      He will be the opposer of Y’shua (Rev 6:4).

5)       Will exalt himself above YHWH (Rev 6:4).

6)       Will accept worship as if Elohim (Rev 6:4).

7)       His worship will be carried on in the future Jewish Temple at Jerusalem (Rev 6:4; Dan 8:10-14, 23-27, 9:27, 11:36-45, 12:1-7; Matt 24:15-21; Rev 11:1-2, 13:1-18, 14:9-11, 15:2-4, 16:2-12).

8)       He will claim to be Y’shua (Rev 6:4).

9)       He has a time to be revealed (Rev 6:6).

10)    The Ruach of YHWH (Hinderer/Restrainer) now holds back or hinders his revelation (Rev 6:7).

11)     The spirit of Torah-lessness (Lawlessness) now works preparing for his revelation (Rev 6:7).

12)    The mystery of iniquity, or spirit of lawlessness cannot reveal him until the Hinderer of Torah-lessness be taken out of the way (Rev 6:7).

13)    When the Hinderer of Torah-lessness is taken out of the way, THEN shall the wicked be revealed (Rev 6:7-8).

14)    When the wicked is revealed, he will live until the Second Advent of Y’shua, will head the armies at Armageddon and will be destroyed by Y’shua (Rev 6:8, 19:11-21; Dan 7:24-28, 8:23-27, 9:27, 11:36-45, 12:1-7; Matt 24:15-31).

15)    He is a man, for Y’shua at Armageddon will kill him (Dan 7:11, 8:25; Isa 11:4; Rev 6:8, 19:11-21).

16)    This man could not be Judas or anyone else already dead (Heb 9:27).

17)    He will be satan’s agent and his last attempt to raise up a world dictator (Rev 6:9; Dan 8:24, 11:37-39; Rev 13:2).

18)    He will have miraculous powers from satan (Dan 8:24, 11:37-39; Rev 6:9, 13:2,11-18, 16:13-16, 19:20; Matt 24:24).

19)    He will be a deceiver (Rev 6:10; Dan 8:24-25, 9:27, 11:36-45; Matt 24:15-31; John 8:44; Rev 13:1-18, 19:20).

20)   Only those who are lost will follow him (Rev 6:10-12, 13:1-18, 14:9-11, 16:13-16, 19:20).

21)    The reason for men being deceived by him is that they have rejected the truth of the Torah, loved sin, and refused salvation (Rev 6:11-12).

22)   He will be a great delusion and a lie (Rev 6:11-12; Dan 8:10-14, 11:25-39).

The Scripture gives Various Names of satan’s accomplice, the Antichrist

From the TaNaCh (Old Covenant):

Seed of the Serpent                                           Gen 3:15.

Man of Bloodshed and Deceit               Ps 5:7.

Mighty Man                                                         Ps 52:1.

Adversary                                                         Ps 74:8-10; Lam 4:11-12.

Assyrian                                                         Isa 10:5, 12, 24. (Pay attention to this one!)

King of Babylon                                           Isa 14:4.

Branch of the terrible one                             Isa 14:19

Spoiler                                                         Isa 16:4.

Crooked Serpent – Leviathan              Isa 27:1; Job 26:13.

Destroyer of nations                                           Jer 4:7.

Profane and Wicked Prince of Israel               Ezek 21:25-27.

Prince of Tyrus                                           Ezek 28:2

Chief Prince of Meshech and Tubal               Ezek 38:2.

Little Horn                                                         Dan 7:8-11, 21-26.

King of Fierce Countenance                             Dan 8:23.

The Prince that shall come                             Dan 9:26.

One who makes Desolate;

Abomination of Desolation                             Dan 9:27; Matt 24:15.

Vile and Despicable One                             Dan 11:21.

Wilful King                                                         Dan 11:36.

King of Princes                                           Hosea 8:10.

Worthless Shepherd                                           Zech 11:16.

The Brit Chadashah (New Covenant/Messianic Writings):

The Lawless One (Torah-less)               2 Thes 2:8.

Man of Sin – Son of Perdition               2 Thes 2:3; John 17:12.

One Bringing Signs and Wonders               2 Thes 2:9.

One Who Comes in his Own Name               John 5:43.

Antichrist                                                         1 John 2:18, 22.

The Liar                                                         1 John 2:22.

The Beast                                                         Rev 11:7, 13.

Beast from the Sea                                           Rev 13:1.

One Whose Fatal Wound Will Heal               Rev 13:3, 12.

Vine of the Earth                                           Rev 14:18.

Four Facts why the Antichrist must be a Jew if you believe that the Antichrist must be a person

Fact 1: Y’shua speaking to the Jews in Jerusalem as the Ten Tribes have been scattered already at this time: “you searched the Scriptures (the Torah and the Neviim (Prophets)), for in them you think you have eternal life (by only obeying the Torah) and these are they (the Scriptures) which testify of me (Y’shua). But you are not willing to come to me (the saddest words spoken by Y’shua) that you may have life. I do not receive honor from men. But I know you that you do not have the love of YHWH in you. I (Y’shua) have come in My Father’s name and you (the Jews) do not receive me; if another (the Antichrist) comes in his own name, him (the Antichrist, a person) you will receive” (John 5:39-43).

The Prophet Zechariah said the same thing: “And Elohim said to me, “Next take for yourself the implements of a foolish shepherd. For indeed, I will raise up a shepherd (the Antichrist), in the land (from His people the Jews), who will not care for those who are cut off (the Jews), nor seek the young, nor heal those that are broken, nor feed those that still stand (will not care for children, the sick or the needy). But he (the Antichrist) will eat the flesh of the fat and tear their hooves in pieces. Woe to the worthless shepherd (the Antichrist), who leaves the flock! (Who rejects Israel!) (Zech 11: 15-17). You see, again it speaks about a person that is not a Good Shepherd as Y’shua, but a worthless shepherd – this is what Y’shua said above.

Fact 2: He (the Antichrist) will destroy His land and people: “Because you have destroyed your land and slain your people” (Isa 14:20).

Fact 3: He will not consider Israel’s God: “He (the Antichrist) shall regard neither the God of his Fathers” (referring to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob); he will eventually declare himself God (Dan 11:37).

Fact 4: There are six reasons for major confusion amongst the Jews and why they will accept the antichrist as their Messiah. There are six critical things that the Bible says Y’shua will do when He returns at the Second Advent and starts His Millennial Reign on earth. Satan who knows the Bible (prophecies), and knows exactly what Y’shua will do, will inspire the Antichrist to counterfeit Y’shua on all these actions to deceive the world as a fake messiah. The Antichrist will only be interested in world power, and will possibly not even know that he is counterfeiting Y’shua.

1) The Antichrist will engineer a peace-pact between Israel (Judaism) and the Arab world (Islam) because of a war that started between Abraham’s sons, Isaac and Ishmael about 4,000 years ago (Gen 21). The offspring of Abraham still hate each other, and the intensity is growing and will continue to grow. YHWH said in Ezek 37:26 he will make a peace covenant; the Antichrist will counterfeit Y’shua’s real peace that He will bring during the Olam Haba. Let’s look at some facts:

       In the past, when an aspiring leader sought to depose a prevailing one, he had to take over by brute force. (Coup d’etat.)

       Such behaviour is no longer tolerated, many modern-day leaders tried it and it failed.

       The days are over when one nation can conquer, occupy, and annex territory as their own.

       The new power structure comes in “peaceably” and with “flatteries”.

       No politician will be elected today to an office if he/she does not present himself/herself as a person of peace.

       We often mistake the idea that the Antichrist and his system will be established by force.

       The Bible tells us clearly that the Antichrist “shall work deceitfully” (Dan 11:23).

       The peace pact will be “a covenant with death” (Isa 28:14-15).

2)  The Antichrist will allow the Jews to rebuild their Temple on Mount Moriah:

       The Temple mount is the most sacred place for the Jew and the second most sacred place (after Mecca) for the Arab. They will destroy each other for this mountain.

       For the Jew, it was on this mountain that Abraham attempted to offer Isaac. It was also the exact place where the First and Second Temple were built. Without the Third Temple on the Temple mount, the Jews know that they are not complete, as this is the place for them where YHWH dwells in their midst. Now, take special note: Israel is the centre of the world, Jerusalem is the centre of Israel, the Temple is the centre of Jerusalem, the “Holies” is the centre of the Temple, the “Holy of Holies” is the centre of the “Holies”, the Ark of the Covenant is in the centre of the  “Holy of Holies”, and the rock that the Ark must stand on is the Foundation Stone of the World – the place (as they say) where YHWH made the covenant with Abraham. THE MOST SACRED PLACE FOR THE JEW! (By the time you read this, all the Temple vessels, the building material for the Third temple, the priestly garments, the training of priests in animal sacrifice, a possible red heifer (Num 19:2) that must be sacrificed before it is three years old for the purification of the priests before they can go onto the Temple Mount, the training of the Levi priests, etc. will all be in place and ready for the Third Temple. It is only a matter of time – I am speaking of the very near future!)

       For the Arab, it was on this mountain that Mohammed purportedly ascended to heaven. According to their belief, “Eesa or Isa” (Arabic for Jesus) a Jew from the tribe of Judah must return for them according to their belief. According to Islamic tradition, Isa’s (Jesus') descent will be in the midst of wars fought by the Mahdi (lit. "the rightly guided one"), known in Islamic eschatology as the redeemer of Islam. This “Jesus” will descend at the point of a white arcade, east of Damascus (what Daniel also prophesied from where the biblical Antchrist will come), dressed in yellow robes and also return to Mount Moriah to restore the Islam faith. This is the area where Islam’s Dome of the Rock is standing. Muslims believe that Isa (Jesus) will return at a time close to the end of the world.

The Qur'an states: "And when the son of Mary is quoted as an example, behold! the folk laugh out, And say: Are our gods better, or is he? They raise not the objection save for argument. Nay! but they are a contentious folk. He is nothing but a slave on whom We bestowed favour, and We made him a pattern for the Children of Israel. And had We willed We could have set among you angels to be viceroys in the earth. And lo! verily there is knowledge of the Hour. So doubt ye not concerning it, but follow Me. This is the right path. And let not Satan turn you aside. Lo! he is an open enemy for you. When Jesus came with clear proofs (of Allah's Sovereignty), he said: I have come unto you with wisdom, and to make plain some of that concerning which ye differ. So keep your duty to Allah, and obey me. Lo! Allah, He is my Lord and your Lord. So worship Him. This is a right path. But the factions among them differed. Then woe unto those who do wrong from the doom of a painful day. Await they aught save the Hour, that it shall come upon them suddenly, when they know not? Friends on that day will be foes one to another, save those who kept their duty (to Allah)." Qur’an sura 43 (az-Zukhruf), ayah 57-67.

So this “one” will be accepted by the five main religions of the world as The Messiah, but he will be the biggest deceiver from satan – the Antichrist! He will be the Christ for the Christian, Isa, Jesus the Jew for the Muslims; Moshiach for the blinded Jews are still awaiting their Messiah; Krishna for the Hindus and the Dalai Lama for the Buddist – one person fulfilling all the prophecies of the five main religions of the world! And he will allow the Temple to be rebuilt and for that the Jews will accept him as Messiah. The Messiah said in Zech 6:12 that He the “Branch” will build the millennial Temple; the Antichrist will counterfeit Y’shua by allowing the Third Temple to be rebuilt.

3) The Antichrist will tell the Jews that the “new mark” in the forehead and the right hand from him (Rev: 13:18) is the same as the “ancient one” YHWH instructed the Jews to put on. (Read Deut 6:4-9, 11:13-21 and Exod 13:1-11.) The Jewish world is in the process of being prepared and conditioned to accept the new mark according to their latest educational material distributed globally which states: “The Messiah will come to give the world new 'mitzvot' (commandments) such as teffilin - Midrash Tehellim 21” by Rabbi Yisroel Ehrman “Tefillin: Making the Connection” page 41.)

4)  In Haggai 2:7-9, it says that the nations will come with their wealth and then Y’shua will fill the Millennial Temple with glory. The Antichrist will counterfeit Him by trying to conquer the world and to obtain all the wealth, allow the Temple to be rebuilt and then he will declare himself God in the rebuilt Temple. When Y’shua returns at the Second Advent, He will put His feet on the Mount of Olives (Zech 14:4). The Antichrist will counterfeit Y’shua and build his palace on the Mount of Olives (Dan 11:45). For the Jew to accept the Antichrist as their Messiah, he must fulfill a number of the 65 Prophecies in the TaNaCh. The view of Judaism is narrow-mindedly focused on the prophecies and writings; and therefore, the Rabbis and the Orthodox Jews will not accept him unless he fulfills these conditions. (See 65 prophecies on the Internet.) Special note! As said above, what few people know is the fact that both the Jews and the Arabs are awaiting their Messiah. Both of them have the same forefather Abraham (who was a Jew); therefore, both will accept the Antichrist – the false messiah because of his Jewish origin. The Jew will not accept any other person that is not Jewish as the Messiah; in fact, he must come out of the Tribe of Judah (Gen 49:10; Isa 9:6-7). The Jews are presently looking at the Tribe of Judah amongst the Rabbis for their Messiah. Now to bring the Jewish and Arab worlds together will be a miracle by itself – combine that with Jerusalem being declared an international city and permission for the Jews to rebuild their Temple. They will accept the Antichrist without a doubt. This is what YHWH meant in 1 Thes 5:3: “when they say Peace and Safety, then sudden destruction will come upon them as labour pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape”.

Theories on the Timing of the Antichrist

Theory 1: The Tribulation period will only be a three-and-a-half-year period and not a seven year period according to some scholars; they interpret Daniel chapter nine in this way. For those who believe this theory, the Antichrist will then make his debute either in person or as world system (for those that don’t believe the Antichrist is a person), in the beginning of the three-and-a-half-year period.

Theory 2: The events described in Revelation 6 to 19 all occur within a period of seven years. This year-week is known as the Tribulation, and is clearly divided into two periods of three-and-a-half-years each. Intensive diplomatic and peace initiatives will characterize the first half by the Antichrist, who will strive to exalt himself to the position of undisputed world leader; the world will accept him as the Messiah because of the peace deals. When his efforts to establish world peace fail, he will resort to an unprecedented reign of terror during the last three-and-a-half-years and introduce the bloodiest dictatorship the world has ever seen. The hundreds of millions of victims that this reign of terror will claim will render it the biggest human tragedy of all time. The last part of the Tribulation is called the Great Tribulation. This term is sometimes used to refer to the entire seven year reign of the Antichrist; but with the clear understanding that the first half will mainly consist of spiritual deception and torment; to put systems in place for a cash-less society, engage in extensive peace talks and to allow the Jews to rebuild their Temple. The second half will be particularly awesome in the sense of the physical destruction of man and his natural environment.

If you believe the second theory, then the information below will be of value to you…

Details of the Rule of the Antichrist during the Seven Years

First three and a half years:

Antichrist is revealed as Prince of Peace. He bases his global leadership position on political, religious and economic structures. The New World Order with its universal Government and world Peace Force is instituted, and it greatly empowers the alliance of world religions to a One World Religion. The Antichrist concludes a covenant with Israel as their Messiah. All other religions accept and worship him in this capacity. The Third Temple is erected in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah next to the Islamic mosque (more on this in chapter 11). The lie is proclaimed that all religions worship the same God. Babylon is possibly rebuilt in Iraq as the New Agers’ capital and symbol of world unity. A temporary economic recovery and a false peace prevail on earth.

Second three and a half years:

Antichrist desecrates the Temple, abolishes the sacrificial service and declares himself as God. Israel abrogates their covenant with him. The alliance of world religions (the false world church) is distracted and replaced by the forced worship of the Antichrist. Beast worship only. Severe persecution is instituted against Y’shua’s followers who are Torah-observant (Rev 7:14, 12:17, 14:12, 22:14) who refuse to worship the Antichrist as God. They are convicted and executed (Rev 20:4). The Antichrist becomes sole ruler and military dictator. He controls a cashless economy by means of computerized 666-related body marks. An unprecedented death toll is caused by wars, pestilences and natural disasters. Military mobilization for the battle of Armageddon occurs.

The distinct differences between Y’shua the Messiah and the false messiah:

1)          Messiah came from heaven (John 6:38).

2)         Messiah came in His Father’s name (John 5:43).

3)         Messiah humbled Himself (Phil 2:8)

4)         Messiah was despised and afflicted (Isa 53:3).

5)         Messiah came to do His Father’s will (John 6:38).

6)         Messiah came to save (Luke 19:10).

7)         Messiah is the Good Shepherd (John 10).

8)         Messiah is the Truth (John 14:6).

9)         Messiah brings life.

10)      Messiah is the Mystery of Godliness, YHWH manifested in the flesh (1 Tim 3:16).

11)       Messiah came to reinforce the Torah (Matt 5:17-19, John 5:46-47).

1)          The false-messiah will come from hell (Rev 11:7).

2)         The false-messiah will come in his own name (John 5:43).

3)         The false-messiah will exalt himself (2 Thes 2:4).

4)         The false-messiah will be admired and lauded (Rev 13:3, 4).

5)         The false-messiah will come to do his own will (Dan 11:36).

6)         The false-messiah will come to destroy (Dan 8:24).

7)         The false-messiah will be the evil shepherd (Zech 11:16-17).

8)         The false-messiah will be “the lie” (2 Thes 2:11).

9)         The false-messiah will bring “evil”; “live” spelled backward.

10)      The false-messiah will be “The Mystery of Iniquity”, satan manifested in the flesh (2 Thes 2:7-9). The living son

11)       of satan.

12)      The false-messiah will do away with the Torah (2 Thes 2:3-11) and persecute those keeping it (Rev 7:14, 12:17, 14:12).

1. And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying, like a sound of thunder, “Come and see.”

2 And I looked and saw a white horse, and he who sat on it holding a bow. And a crown was given to him, and he went out overcoming and to overcome.

3 And when He opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, “Come and see.”

4 And another horse, fiery red, went out. And it was given to the one who sat on it to take peace from the earth, and that they should slay one another. And a great sword was given to him.

5 And when He opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come and see.” And I looked and saw a black horse, and he who sat on it holding a pair of scales in his hand.

6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a day’s wage, and three quarts of barley for a day’s wage. And do not harm the oil and the wine.”

7 And when He opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, “Come and see.”

8 And I looked and saw a pale horse. And he who sat on it had the name Death, and the grave followed with him. And authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and by the beasts of the earth.

9 And when He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the beings of those having been slain for the Word of Elohim and for the witness which they held,

10 and they cried with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Master, set-apart and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?”

11 And there was given to each one a white robe, and they were told that they should rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brothers, who would be killed as they were, was completed.

12 And I looked when He opened the sixth seal and saw a great earthquake came to be. And the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood.

13 And the stars of the heaven fell to the earth, as a fig tree drops its unripe figs, being shaken by a strong wind.

14 And heaven departed like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was moved out of its place.

15 And the sovereigns of the earth, and the great ones, and the rich ones, and the commanders, and the mighty, and every slave and every free one, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains,

16 and said to the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him sitting on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb,

17 because the great day of His wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”

Now that the stage has been set on Earth (Chapters 2 and 3) and in Heaven (Chapters 4 and 5), what will happen in the future (“which will take place after this” (1:19; 4:1)

        Y’shua is the one opening the scroll (Isaiah 53:7; John 1:29).

        YHWH is pouring His wrath out for the second time on the earth, and only Y’shua can break the 7 seals (5:5).

        The first Cherub commands with a thundering voice, “Come and see.”; each one of the four had a turn (4:7).

        “And see” is left out in some Bibles – check your Bible. (Also at verses 3, 5 and 7). The reason to see is perhaps that of Rev 1:3.

The white horse indicates peace and looks like the Messiah’s white horse, but it is not.

        A “white horse” is the symbol of a conqueror.

        When Y’shua returns as the King to establish His kingdom on Earth, He is depicted as riding on a white horse (19:11).

        His authority to rule is given to him by satan (13:4). This is another indication that this conqueror is not Y’shua; the true Messiah has no need to be given the authority to rule the world which He created (John 1:1-3).

        This Antimessiah’s obsession is to conquer the world and fully establish it as his kingdom in the place of the rightful King of Kings, as satan wanted to supplant YHWH in Heaven (Isaiah 14:13-14). “Antichrist” (1 John 4:3) in the Greek does not just mean “against the Messiah”; it also means “in the place of the Messiah” – a false or fake messiah. The white horse and golden crown also indicate that this is not some dark, sinister-appearing figure, but is the counterfeit messiah whom the whole world will follow and worship (13:3, 4).

        Theory 1: If the Antichrist is a person, then this is not Y’shua because: 1) the Y’shua is the one opening the seal and is not the one revealed in the opening of the seal; 2) it occurs at the beginning and not the end of the Tribulation; 3) his weapon is a bow indicating a worldly weapon and Y’shua will destroy His enemies with a “sword” that comes from His mouth (Eph 6:17); and 4) after Y’shua returns at the end of the Tribulation and defeats His enemies, He will establish peace on Earth; rather than His victory being followed by all the terrible events portrayed in the breaking of the succeeding six seals (especially the martyrdom of His people (6:9-10)). This must not be mistaken for Y’shua as so many leaders, teachers and scholars explain. They twist the Scriptures and have no scriptural proof, but let’s look at some more facts:

a)    Read what Y’shua himself told His disciples on the Mount of Olives in Matt 24:3-14 – note the exact sequence of the events (the Revelation is a blue print of what Y’shua said).

b)    Y’shua Himself said in John 5:43, “I have come in my Father’s name, and you did not accept me, and another (the Antichrist) will come in his own name and him you will receive”. Millions of people will accept the Antichrist as the Messiah at this point.

c)    The Jews are expecting their Messiah any moment (see explanation on “Reasons why the Jews will accept the Antichrist as their Messiah” further in this chapter). According to the Orthodox Jews, the Messiah will have to fulfill Isaiah 11 and Jer 23:5.

d)    The Antichrist will show the world that he’s got all the power and ability. The fact that there are no arrows indicates that he will come in peace just as the Jews await the Messiah (more details in chapter 13). The crown refers to great political power. (For the Pre-Trib Believers only: remember this is immediately after the Rapture of the Bride, there will be absolute chaos on earth at this point in time.) War would have happened or is on the brink of breaking out and the world will be crying out for a man (a superman), a Messiah to restore order under a One World Government. This is the reason why the world drives with an unrestrained effort towards a: 1) One World Government (United Nations, the European Union and the Club of Rome); 2) One World Religion (Parliament of World Religions); and 3) One World Monetary system). The Antichrist will have superior speaking abilities; and through deceit, take over countries (Dan 8:25). The Antichrist will deceive the whole world; and the world will give itself over to him.

e)    The rider of this white horse represents the evil “prince who is to come” (Dan 9:26), the “man of sin”, the “son of perdition” (2 Thes 2:3), the “lawless one” (2 Thes 2:9), “Antichrist” (1 John 2:18), and the “beast” who rises out of the sea (13:1). Antimessiah’s role as world conqueror during the first half of the Final Seven Years until the final plagues of the judgments of YHWH (the bowls of wrath) utterly destroy his global kingdom (Dan 11:36), will become clear as we proceed through Revelation.

f)    The bow is the most common Biblical symbol of war, but he has no arrows. Both Daniel and Revelation indicate that the false messiah who is to come will conquer not by brute force but primarily by false peace and by deceiving the world to follow him (Dan 8:23, 25; Rev 13:3-4).

        Theory 2: It is a world system or a head of a religious system; i.e., the Pope of the Vatican that will come in what seems like purity but will eventually devour the people and it is not a physical person.

A second Cherub opens the second seal.

        The “red horse” and the “great sword” clearly indicate waging war (same as in Matt 24:6), and there are various theories.

        Theory 1: Conflict will increase and eventually erupt into a full-blown war in Israel (soon); this starts before the Tribulation and will continue throughout.

        Soon there will be a war in Israel; most probably the war of Gog and Magog as the Jews are presently preparing for it (Ezek 38).

        The Antichrist (if he is a physical person; if not, a world-system treaty) will then confirm the covenant with many to prevent the war.

        A part of this peace-pact will allow the Jewish nation to rebuild the Third Temple.

        The plagues from the second Seal and the Trumpet and Bowl judgments will be the effects of the war as well as natural disasters that YHWH will cause because of His judgments.

        The Believers will be unharmed through all this on the earth because they are fully protected by YHWH.

        This means that the “Red Horse” (“war”) must occur during the first part of the Tribulation period.

        Theory 2: Conflict in Israel will increase to a point where a full-blown nuclear war threatens to erupt.

        Then the Rapture takes place and this will cause chaos throughout the world and worsen the situation in Israel.

        A “Superhuman”, the long awaited “Messiah” for the Jews, then appears from within the E.U.’s geographical area.

        He stabilizes the extremely sensitive situation in the Middle East, by doing the following:

1)     He confirms the seven-year peace-pact that was signed earlier (Dan 9:27).

2)    He declares Jerusalem an international city.

3)    He solves the biggest problem of all time by allowing the Jews to rebuild the Third Temple next to the “Dome of the Rock” mosque, on the Temple mount.

        Due to this, the Jews as well as the Muslims will accept the Antichrist as their Messiah.

        Thus, there will then be no war during the first 3½ years of the Tribulation period, based on the following:

        I personally spoke with Rabbi Chaim Richman, who is one of the leaders of the “Temple Institute” [(when this book was written) (a body that endeavors to have the Temple rebuilt)] and the author asked him how the Jews will recognise their Messiah? His answer was as follows: “He will bring peace and rebuild the Temple” and he added “they will know that he is the Messiah because he will fulfill Isaiah 11”. The crux lies in the fact that no war will erupt during the first 3½ years and that the second Seal will only be opened in the middle of the Tribulation when this Antichrist breaks the peace pact (Dan 9:27). This will activate  the Great Tribulation – meaning the second seal must form part of the Great Tribulation; otherwise the Jews will not accept him as the Messiah. The Messiah must bring peace; therefore, it is impossible that there will be war during the first 3½ years (Ezek 37:26). The Bible says the Antichrist will break the seven-year peace pact in the middle of the seven years. (Dan 9:27 – literally in the middle of the week, which is "shabuah" in Hebrew or “hebdomas” in Greek. In the Jewish tradition, this is the expression used for a seven-year period – as we use ‘decade’ for ten and ‘century’ for a hundred years. (Details at 3:10.) This will then activate the battle of Gog and Magog (Ezek 38 & 39). This indicates that the second Seal can only be opened at the beginning of the second 3½ years when the Antichrist goes into the rebuilt Jewish Temple, declares himself God and demands to be worshipped (2 Thes 2:4).

        There are also scholars who suggest that the rider of the red horse may be a fallen archangel aiding the false messiah, as there is a hierarchy of fallen angels (just as there is a hierarchy of heavenly angels); and just as satan will give the anti-messiah authority to rule Earth, he gives fallen archangels authority over large realms and activity on Earth; i.e., the satanic “Prince of Persia” in Dan 10:13.

This is the third Cherub.

        The “black horse” indicates economic disruption and famine (same as Matt 24:7).

        “Pair of scales” is to measure food for rationing purposes; were used by merchants in the ancient world to weigh out portions of grain.

        Theory 1: The black horse is not reference to an “Antichrist” person but to a world system that will dominate the economy and cause an extreme depression with inflation skyrocketing.

        Theory 2: If the false messiah is a physical person, then he will implement the literal 666 system as the only means to buy food (no mark = no food); thereby controlling all buying and selling and eventually forcing people to worship him as God. The war(s) of the “second Seal” will also increase food shortages (Ezek 4:10-11, 16; Lev 26:26; Ezek 7:19; James 5:1, 3; Matt 6:16-21).

        Y’shua is the voice speaking, as He is standing in-between the four Cherubim because He is opening the seals. Although He does not directly cause the terrible events of the first four seals to occur, He is ultimately in control of everything that happens on Earth and allows satan (who has come to “steal, and to kill, and to destroy” (John 10:10)) to bring them about for several possible reasons, including: (1) setting satan up to think that he is in total control of what happens on Earth; (2) sifting and refining His People (Psalm 66:10-12, if you believe you will go through the Tribulation); and (3) partially executing His judgment by allowing those who refuse to repent to reap the consequences of their wickedness.

        A Denarius was the daily wage for a labourer during Roman times. The real problem here is not famine, but inflation and scarcity (which cause famine and the 666 mark) that will be implemented in the middle of the Tribulation period (theory  in the second Seal). Normally, one could buy eight measures of wheat for a Denarius in Roman time. During the Tribulation, one will only be able to buy one measure – it means one will do a full day’s hard labour to buy one meal. (Food will increase eight times in cost.)

        “Do not hurt the oil and wine” – you will not be able to afford any luxuries; and what Y’shua is telling the rider of the black horse is: “Let the poor suffer, but do not harm the food of the wealthy” – which could be a curse on the wealthy, because those who are poor and who suffer are much more likely to repent and accept YHWH’s salvation than are those who prosper (1 Cor 1:26; James 2:5).

The last Cherub opened the fourth Seal. The “pale horse” indicates death (also in Matt 24:7 and Jer 14:12).

        Many deaths will result from the war(s) and pestilence following the horrible battle(s) (as well as the persecutions in the middle of the Tribulation period if you believe Theory 2 when the 666 system will be implemented in the second Seal).

        Sword/hunger/death: The three greatest evils in the world are war, famine, and sickness. Today's army arsenals have the means to reduce the population by tens of millions within hours – chemical warfare and test tubes filled with viruses for the greatest biological and bacteriological attack ever. “Kill with death” is a Hebrew idiom that means to die a horrible, miserable death.

        “Death” – The grave, the place where the body goes when you die. “o thanatos” in Greek.

        “Grave” is “Hades” in Greek, and this is the place where the unbeliever’s soul goes when he/she dies.

        Death and Hades may also be fallen angels: Death, the angel that separates the soul from the body; and Hades, the angel that carries the unsaved soul to its waiting place until the Final Judgment.

        Death is not the end of existence; it is only a separation. Physical death is the separation of the soul from the body, and spiritual death is the separation of the soul from YHWH. As power is given to the riders of the first three horses, power is given to Death and Hades to kill (separate from life) and consign to Hades. Then, after the resurrection of the unsaved and their appearance before the Great White Throne, Death and Hades are cast into the Lake of Fire (20:14).

        Note: The first four Seals will affect a fourth of the earth’s population (nearly 2 billion people in 2013); this is possibly from the geographical area in and around the Mediterranean sea where the seat of the Antichrist (person and/or system) will be.

        “The beasts of the earth”: NB. YHWH warned about this in Lev 26:22. Note that after the flood, YHWH instilled a fear of       humanity in animals (Gen 9:2). During the horrible judgments of the Tribulation, YHWH will remove this fear, allowing the wild beasts to attack humans until the Messiah returns. The Messiah will then reinstitute a covenant of peace between humans and animals (Isaiah 11:6-9; Hos 2:18).

This is another hidden menorah and is found in the seven Seal judgments, forming a perfect menorah with the fourth Seal in the middle referring to light. The word “pale” is translated from the Greek word “chloros” that actually means green. “Chloros” appears four times in the Brit Chadashah. Three times it is translated as “green”. Only Rev 6:8 translates it as “pale” (Mark 6:39; Rev 8:7, 9:14). “Chloros” refers to the pale green or faded yellow of grass or plants that have been scorched by the sun or heat. The word “chlorophyll” comes from “chloros” and refers to the green colouring or the life- giving juices that are found in the leaves of grasses and plants. Root systems of plants absorb fluids and trace elements that are transferred to the leaves. When light shines upon them, a process of photosynthesis takes place. this provides the plant with the ability to produce its own nutrition. So: Light = photosynthesis = food = life     Light = Added value.

The events revealed by the breaking of the first four Seals are pointed out by the four Cherubim which represent YHWH’s natural creation, as seen in one of the theories in Chapter 4. They are allowed by YHWH for the natural manifestations and consequences of the wrath of satan released on the earth; as his incarnation, the false-messiah, goes forth conquering and to conquer. Notice also that the seals are on the outside of the scroll. So, they reveal events that are categorically different from the events that are revealed on the inside of the scroll. They must be opened first; therefore, are forerunners to the events of the judgments and Wrath of YHWH.

The fifth Seal takes us up back into Heaven.

        Yocahan’s attention is shifted back to Heaven where the souls of martyrs are seen “under” the Altar.

        This is the Brazen Altar in heaven. There were two altars in the Temple on Earth duplicated from the tow in Heaven – the Altar of Sacrifice (also called the Altar of Burnt Offerings or the Table of YHWH) and the Altar of Incense. In biblical times, the blood of the sacrifices of the animals was poured out at the base of the Sacrificial Altar (Exod 19:12, 29:20, Lev 4:2, 18, 25, 30, 34), which stood in front of the Temple (Lev 4:7) in the courtyard. The blood symbolizes life. This is a shadow of what will come during the Tribulation (20:4). During the Tribulation, the blood will definitely flow; and the person that offered his/her life, his/her soul will appear under Elohim’s Sacrificial Altar in Heaven. According to rabbinic tradition, the souls of all the Believers throughout history are stored under the altar.

        They will be slain/martyred/killed during the Tribulation for one reason, with two conditions! Those who confirmed/witnessed Y’shua as their Messiah (2 Tim 1:8); and doing the Torah (1 John 2:3-4). Meaning, they are rejecting the false messiah (who is Torahlessness (2 Thes 2:8)); false messiah will reject YHWH’s Torah in totality (Dan 7:25).

        These are only a portion of souls that will come out of the great Tribulation period; it is only a portion, because Yochanan had the vision which took him into the Great Tribulation when it was still ongoing – and not to the end to see all the souls. (See verse 11, “rest for a little season”, which is concrete proof.) This is another indication (even after the first four seals have been broken)that the judgments and Wrath of YHWH has not yet begun to be poured out. That is what these souls are pleading to YHWH for it to happen. As with the blood of Abel crying out to YHWH against his murderer, Cain (Gen 4:10); the souls of the martyred Believers cry out to YHWH for vengeance against their persecutors—“those who dwell on the earth” (Theory 1).

        Theory 2: The martyrs want to know how long Y’shua will still tolerate the evil work of the false messiah and his followers. This group of Believers knows that prophecy is being fulfilled; and they wonder how much longer their loved ones (still alive) must suffer. YHWH has a fixed number of souls that must be saved. There is an amount that is outstanding that must first come into the Kingdom of YHWH before the group under the Altar can be released. They must wait for the rest who will be killed (20:4) during the remaining time of the Tribulation period. (It will be a period worse than stated in Heb 11:37.)

        “Rest” is “anapauo” in Greek, which is from “ana”- up, and “pauo”- to make to cease. The word describes a cessation from toil, refreshment, and an intermission.

        Although they “rest”, they are also crying; they are not in an unconscious state as some denominations teach – that all Believers sleep until resurrection day. The doctrine of "soul sleep" is not taught in the Scriptures (read 2 Cor 5:8). The souls of the unredeemed are in Hades; which is not a place of rest, but of torment ( Luke 16:23).

        “White robes”: here is symbolic language and symbolizes purity (Rev 19:8). They were found worthy and set-apart. The martyrs are not yet resurrected. Although a white robe, a symbol of righteousness (19:8) worn by many of the Heavenly beings (overcomers—3:4-5, 18; the elders—4:4; the innumerable multi-tude—7:9; the armies of Heaven—19:14; Y’shua Himself—Luke 9:29; and angels—Mark 16:5, 20:12), is given to each of them, they are told to “rest a little while longer”.

        Wait for “fellow servants” and “brothers” are two different groups of the Redeemed; that is why Y’shua uses both terms. “Fellow servants” refers to those Believers who are not martyred, and “brethren who would be killed as they were” refers to those who will be martyred. In other words, what the Word seems to be saying here is that the number of both those who are saved but not martyred and those who are martyred is limited. And the time of the persecution of the Believers, whether or not they are martyred, is limited; in fact, this period of “great distress” (7:14) is limited to a short period of time. No doubt, this was also included in Revelation to encourage those first century believers and believers who are persecuted throughout history to know that their time of suffering is limited to a very short period of time (compared to eternity in the presence of YHWH).

        YHWH will patiently delay the final judgment to give every evildoer the chance to repent – even though the suffering of the Tribulation Believers will be prolonged. He is concerned for justice; but even more so, for mercy.

The opening of the sixth Seal brings about a great cataclysm – the shaking of the cosmos. It is first war; famine and death, and now natural catastrophe (Joel 2:31, 3:15). Everything in heaven and earth falls apart, with the world in chaos and nobody can stand upright. The images in this passage are terrifying and they strike the imagination with tremendous force – too inconceivable for the human mind. That is exactly what they are intended to do: evil is exposed in all its hideous ways. The Revelation brings everything out into the open; there is no glossing over matters, no sugar-coating of the bitter facts.

        The first of many earthquakes to come (see also Matt 24:7; Joel 2:10; Rev 8:5; 11:13; 11:19; 16:18).

        The sun will be darkened five times during the Tribulation period. (See write-up at the end of the chapter.)

        “And the stars of heaven fell to the earth” can have various meanings: 1) Meteorites and/or asteroids will fall onto the earth (Isaiah 34:4); 2) a star fell to the earth (one would totally annihilate the earth); 3) also, satan’s angels (“stars”) being thrown from Heaven to Earth, as in 12:4, 4) – could also refer to the countries releasing the arsenal of missile warheads. (How would you describe today’s technology if you were Yochanan ±1900 years ago? The only way Yochanan could describe such events due to the lack of terminology was to describe it as the appearance of stars falling and the mushroom clouds caused by nuclear explosions obliterating the light from the sun might give the appearance of the sky being rolled up as a scroll.)

        The stars will also be darkened, as in Joel 2:10 and 3:15. Five times the sun is darkened during the Tribulation:

1)       During the sixth Seal, in the midpoint of the Tribulation period (6:12).

2)       During the fourth Trumpet (8:12).

3)       During the fifth Trumpet (9:2).

4)      During the fifth Vial (16:10).

5)       Immediately after the future Tribulation at the Second Advent (Matt 24:29; Isaiah 13:10; Ezek 32:7-8; Joel 2:31, 3:15; Acts 2:16-21).

        A nuclear explosion can very easily trigger a huge earthquake due to the movement close to faults in tectonic plates of the earth. YHWH says every island, which means each and every island will move out of its place. Can you imagine islands like Mauritius, Hawaii, etc. being utterly shaken, some even disappearing!

        Is it not amazing that most high-powered political leaders have underground bunkers (to escape a nuclear war should it occur), but there will be no place to hide as YHWH will tear the tectonic plates of the earth up and no underground bunker will survive (Isaiah 2:10, 19, 21, 24:21, Hos 10:8).

        “Mountains and rocks, fall on us” is what Y’shua was referring to just before He was crucified (read Luke 23:27-30). knowing every person on the earth will know that these devastations are caused by Y’shua.

        The “wrath” is about to start! The wrath is not just the wrath of YHWH the Father, but of YHWH the Son (the Lamb).

        Theory 1: For those believing in a full seven-year Tribulation Period with persecution throughout the entire seven years: The seals plus the first four Trumpet judgments will occur during the first half of the Tribulation period. The fifth Trumpet judgment occurs more or less at the midpoint of the Tribulation period.

        Theory 2: For those also believing in a seven-year Tribulation Period but with the first 3½ years false peace and the second 3½ years the Great Tribulation: The first Seal is opened at the beginning of the seven-year Tribulation period and from the second Seal to the seventh Seal the Seals are opened at the midpoint in a very short space of time as laid out below.

Day 1 - The Antichrist can on “day 1” break the peace by declaring war (second Seal/red horse).

Day 2 - By declaring himself God in the Temple and enforcing the 666 system; can happen the very “same day” or on “day 2”, which triggers famine immediately. A full-out, one-day nuclear war can cause devastating damage and will have a major affect on the food chain (third Seal/black horse).

Day 3 - On “day 3”, after the nuclear war and the dust is still settling and with the 666 system in place, nobody without the mark will be able to sell or buy food, medicines, etc. With millions of people and animals who died in the nuclear explosion the previous day, bodies will lie and rot everywhere. Remember, if you haven’t got the mark, you can not buy medicine or make funeral arrangements, etc. Pestilence will now break out and cause further death – read Matt 24:7 (fourth Seal/pale horse).

Day 4 - The false messiah can now, in a “very short space of time” (1 or 2 weeks) send his police force out and persecute Believers as never before in history – as Matt 24:21 says (fifth Seal/martyrs in heaven).

Day 5 - When the killing starts, Y’shua is about to pour out His Wrath (sixth Seal/cosmic disturbances).

        Theory 4: For those who believe in only in a 3½ year Tribulation Period: All Seals and judgments will open in this 3½ year period, known as the great Tribulation.

        Theory on the sixth Seal: The events of the sixth seal can occur just before and announce the beginning of the Day of YHWH (Joel 3:14, 15; Matt 24:29; Acts 2:20) which includes the Trumpet judgments and “last plagues” of the “Wrath of YHWH” (15:1); the resurrection of the righteous; the return of Y’shua for His Bride; the catching away of His Bride (the “Rapture”); the return of Y’shua with the armies of Heaven; the Battle of “Armageddon”; the establishment of Y’shua’s Millennial Kingdom on Earth; the Final Judgment; and the destruction of the heavens and the earth (2 Peter 3:10). Some may object that the “Day of YHWH” is one day, but the term “day” in Scripture frequently refers to longer periods of time which include a series of related events (Gen 2:4; Psalm 50:15, 95:8). Others may object that the “second coming” of Y’shua is a single event; but when we speak of His “first coming”, are we not talking about His entire thirty or so years on Earth? Why could His “second coming” not likewise include all the events from His return to catch away the Redeemed until His return with the armies of Heaven to destroy His enemies and to establish His kingdom on Earth? As we have noted, the Messiah is no longer bound by an earthly body and by space and time; He is free to come and go as He pleases. With this theory, more details can be included in the events that are revealed when the six seals are broken.

        It ends the chapter with the question: “Who shall be able to stand?” The answer is obvious – no one! (Zeph 1:2-18).

Who is Antiochus Epiphanes?

Antiochus Epiphanes was a Hellenistic (Grecian) king that reigned in Syria between 171 to 164 B.C.E. He outlawed Judaism and regularly led armies against the Jewish people and plundered Jerusalem. During one of these sieges, they once again slew many Jews and robbed the city and (especially) the Temple of all its gold and precious ornaments before returning to Antioch. He desecrated the Temple and took the golden lampstands, the incense altar, the table of shewbread, the altar of burnt offering and even the veils. According to the historian Josephus, he (Antiochus) took all of its secret treasures and left nothing at all remaining. After this, he forbade the daily sacrifices; which the Jews used to offer to YHWH, and by this act, cast them (the Jews) into great lamentation. To cap this, he built an idol altar upon YHWH’s altar and slew swine upon it to offer to his idols. This is the reason for the confusion and why the Orthodox Jews believe the Book of Daniel is already fulfilled. But we know it is a picture and it did happen (with the destruction of Herod’s Temple, the Romans erected a statue of Jupiter on the Temple Mount and the Muslims built the Dome of the Rock there as well) and will happen again when the false messiah appears, whom Daniel and Y’shua called the “abomination of desolation” (Dan 11:31, 12:11; Matt 24:15).

How long will it take to complete the Temple?

Midrashic Eschatology is Jewish end-time studies and always refers to pattern. Meaning, it happened in the past and it will happen again (example: Dan 8:13-14 refers to Antiochus Epiphanes in 171 B.C.E, but the event is a picture of what will happen again; i.e., the exact time from when the Priests will start their animal sacrifices again through to the time the false messiah declares himself God in the Temple, until the Temple is cleansed will be 2,300 days (or 76 Jewish months of 30 days each plus 20 days, which is 7 months and 10 days shorter than the Tribulation period (if you believe in a seven year Tribulation period)). It is possible that this is the time the Jewish nation will take to rebuild the Temple. Bear in mind that animal sacrificing can start immediately in a tent Tabernacle while they build the Third Temple. Please read the Appendix "Why You Can Only Accept Jewish Eschatology" at the back of the book to get a better understanding of the Revelation.

Three Indicators that the Tribulation is Near

1)               A Prophetic Checklist for the True Bride

1.           The rise of world communism made it possible for the worldwide spread of atheism.

2.          Liberalism undermines the spiritual vitality of the true Assembly in Europe and eventually in America.

3.          The movement towards a super-church (pagan) begins with the ecumenical system.

4.          Apostasy and the great denial of biblical truths are evident in this church.

5.          Moral chaos becomes more and more evident because of the complete departure from the Biblical morality code.

6.          The sweep of spiritism, the occult, and the belief in fallen angels and aliens/demons begin to prepare the world for satan’s final hour.

7.          Jerusalem becomes a centre of religious controversy for Arabs and Christians; while Jews of the world plan to make the city an active centre for Judaism.

8.          The next event is the removal of the Restrainer and the Bride at the rapture.

9.          Evil will dramatically increase and take over the world through doing away of the Torah.

10.        The super-church will combine the major religions as a tool for the false prophet to aid the false messiah to rise to world power.

11.        The false messiah destroys the super-church in the Tribulation period and demands worship as a deified world dictator (Rev 17).

12.       Believers during this period suffer intense persecution and are martyred (beheaded) by the thousands.

13.        Y’shua returns to earth and ends the rule of the nations at the Battle of Armageddon.

2)               A Prophetic Checklist for the Nations

1.           The establishment of the United Nations began a serious first step towards world government.

2.          The rebuilding of Europe after World War II made possible its future role in a renewal of the Roman Empire.

3.          Israel was established as a nation in 1948.

4.          Russia rose to world power and became the ally of the Arab countries.

5.          The Common Market and World Bank indicated a need for some international regulation of the world economy.

6.          Red China rose to world power.

7.          The Middle East became the most significant trouble spot in the world.

8.          Oil blackmail awakened the world to the new concentration of wealth and power in the Mediterranean.

9.          The iron curtain fell and a new world order emerged in Europe.

10.        Russia declined as a world power and lost her influence in the Middle East.

11.        A world-clamor for peace followed the continued disruption caused by the high price of oil, terrorist incidents, and the confused military situation in the Middle East.

12.       The Club of Rome created the Ten Global Area Confederacy – the beginning of the last stage of the prophetic world Empire.

13.        The next event is the rise of the Mediterranean leader, the Antichrist (if you believe he is a person); who will upset three nations and take control of the Ten Global Areas from out of the Europe Union.

14.       The Antichrist will then reinforce a “final” peace pact for the Middle East and will also violate it.

15.       This will activate the Great Tribulation period when he will break the peace pact, Russia (who allies with the Arab world) and the Islamic nations will invade Israel (Ezek 38 and 39).

16.        The false messiah will destroy Russia, proclaim himself world dictator and demand to be worshipped.

17.        The false messiah will stop all animal sacrifices at the Temple; he will put a statue (with the help of the false prophet) of himself in the Temple and put the 666 mark system in place to force the people to worship him.

18.       Somebody (probably an orthodox Jew or Muslim, because they are fanatical about their beliefs), will try to assassinate the false messiah (Rev 13).

19.       The terrible judgments of the great Tribulation will be poured out on the nations by Y’shua.

20.       Worldwide rebellion will threaten the world dictator’s rule as armies throughout the world converge onto the Middle East (false messiah is satan’s tool as satan’s driven plan is to annihilate Israel).

21.       Y’shua will return to earth with His armies from heaven.

22.       The armies of the world will unite to resist Y’shua’s coming and will be destroyed in the Battle of Armageddon.

23.       Y’shua will establish His millennial reign on earth.

3)               A Prophetic Checklist for Israel as a Nation

1.           The intense suffering and persecution of Jews throughout the world led to pressure for a national home in Palestine.

2.          Jews returned to Palestine and Israel was re-established as a nation in 1948.

3.          The infant nation survived against overwhelming odds.

4.          Russia emerge as an important enemy of Israel, but the United States came to the aid of Israel.

5.          Israel’s heroic survival and growing strength made it an established nation, recognized throughout the world.

6.          Israel’s military accomplishments became overshadowed by the Arabs’ ability to wage a diplomatic war by controlling much of the world’s oil reserves.

7.          The Arab position was strengthened by their growing wealth and by alliances between Europe and key Arab countries.

8.          The increasing isolation of the United States and Russia from the Middle East makes it more and more difficult for Israel to negotiate an acceptable peace settlement.

9.          The next event is that the Antichrist (the false messiah) will solve this problem by engineering a very favorable peace pact; and on top of that, allow the Jews to rebuild their Temple. The Jews will gladly accept the offer.

10.        The Jewish people celebrate what appears to be a lasting and final peace settlement.

11.        During the first 3½ years of the peace pact, Judaism was revived and traditional animal sacrifices and ceremonies will be re-instituted in the rebuilt Temple in Jerusalem.

12.       The Russian army will attempt to invade Israel, but will be mysteriously destroyed during the mid-point of the 7-year Tribulation period.

13.        The Antichrist (who will proclaim himself world dictator) desecrate the Temple, and begin a period of intense persecution of Jews.

14.       Many Jews will recognize the unfolding of prophetic events and declare their faith in Y’shua as the Messiah of Israel.

15.       The massacre of Jews by the brutal, vicious dictator will last for 1260 days.

16.        Y’shua will return to earth, hailed by believing Jews as their Messiah and Deliverer.

17.        Y’shua’s thousand-year reign on earth from the throne of David finally will fulfil the prophetic promises to the nation of Israel.

Vaw letter ו – Numerical value 6

Meaning (vaw): Hook; nail; redemption and transformation.

Embedded in the Chapter: The 6th Hebrew letter ‘vav’ shows the relationship between God and man, who was created on the 6th  day.

Redemption (Y’shua) and transformation came through man as God used mankind to bring the Messiah into the world. The letter ‘vav’ is said to form a hook, pointing to its use as a conjunction (word that connects others). It connects God to man. Here we see in Revelation 6 that God uses man, a man called the Antichrist to fulfill His plan. God gives him power to subdue nations.  God used gentile rulers (good or evil) all along to help the Jews to return to Jerusalem.

Seven (7) is God’s number for perfection; 6 is the number of man and falls short of the glory of God. In verses 1-2, the Antichrist makes his debut. This is also the time God starts to send judgments to the world. Did you know that the ‘www’ on internet is ‘vaw, vaw, vaw’, the numerical value of 666 in the Hebrew alphabet? Question: will the internet be an integral part of the false messiah’s cashless monetary system?

Revelation Chapter 7

YHWH’s Provision

Background

Chapter 7 is a parenthesis or a parenthetical passage – meaning it is an interruption, breaking, or stopping of an event(s) that takes place to explain something, or to give more detail of a specific event. In this case, the seven Seal judgments are interrupted, as the seventh Seal judgment only takes place in chapter 8.

Chapter 7 may be divided into two portions dealing with two groups of people: verses 1-8 – the 144,000 Israelites; and verses 9-17 – the multitudinous Gentiles.

1. And after this I saw four messengers standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.

2 And I saw another messenger coming up from the rising of the sun, holding the seal of the living Elohim. And he cried with a loud voice to the four messengers to whom it was given to harm the earth and the sea,

3 saying, “Do not harm the earth, nor the sea, nor the trees until we have sealed the servants of our Elohim upon their foreheads.”

4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred and forty-four thousand, sealed out of all the tribes of the children of Yisra’el:

5 of the tribe of Yehudah twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Re’uben twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Gadtwelve thousand were sealed,

6 of the tribe of Asher twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Naphtali twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Menashsheh twelve thousand were sealed,

7 of the tribe of Shim’on twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Lewi twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Yissaskar twelve thousand were sealed,

8 f the tribe of Zebulun twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Yoseph twelve thousand were sealed, of the tribe of Binyamin twelve thousand were sealed.

9 After this I looked and saw a great crowd which no one was able to count, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes, and palm branches in their hands,

10 and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Deliverance belongs to our Elohim who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

11 And all the messengers stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshipped Elohim,

12 saying, “Amen! The blessing, and the esteem, and the wisdom, and the thanksgiving, and the respect, and the power, and the might, to our Elohim forever and ever. Amen.”

13 And one of the elders responded, saying to me, “Who are these dressed in white robes, and where did they come from?”

14 And I said to him, “Master, you know.” And he said to me, “These are those coming out of the great distress, having washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

15 Because of this they are before the throne of Elohim, and serve Him day and night in His Dwelling Place. And He who sits on the throne shall spread His Tent over them.

16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more, neither shall the sun strike them, nor any heat,

17 because the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne shall shepherd them and lead them to fountains of waters of life. And Elohim shall wipe away every tear from their eyes.”

“After this” indicates after the six Seal judgments, Yochanan saw four righteous angels (“angelos” in Greek), meaning a heavenly personage functioning as a messenger from YHWH to execute His purpose and to make them known to men.

        The angels holding the devastating forces of judgment on the Earth back causing silence. In the next chapter (8:1), there is also a half-hour period of total silence in Heaven just before the plagues of the judgments of YHWH start to be released on the earth. Perhaps this time period on Earth when the winds are being held back is the same as the half-hour of silence in Heaven.

        See note on “Four Corners of the Earth” at the end of this chapter.

        These are the first four trumpet judgments: angels commanded not to blow their trumpets yet. Notice that the first four trumpet judgments are to hurt the earth, seas and water.

        Before the plagues of the judgments of YHWH begin to be released, the “servants” of YHWH must be sealed on their foreheads. As we shall see, this is a seal of protection applied to YHWH’s People on the earth (Israel) in the same way that He placed a mark on Cain to protect him as he wandered the earth as an alien to those he met (Gen 4:14-15). In the same way, the Remnant of Israel who are chosen by YHWH to be sealed will be considered aliens by the followers of the false messiah.

        This is not the mark of the false messiah (13:18). (See “Literal Mark or Not?” at the end of chapter 7.)

The servants will be sealed on the earth, the servants of our YHWH. They will be YHWH’s elected, chosen ones, to teach the truth in a dark evil world during the Great Tribulation period (Matt 24:22).

        Theory 1: They will complete their ministry in the first half of the seven year Tribulation period.

        Theory 2: They will be sealed specially to escape the Antichrist’s persecution and YHWH’s wrath during the last 3½ years of Tribulation.

        “Children of Israel” refers to the descendants of Abraham, Yitsaq and Yaacob. The servants that are sealed are from all Twelve of the Tribes, Yehudah (and Benyamin – Southern Kingdom) included; which are the twelve sons of Yaacob (Gen 35:23-26; Gen 49). We can only hold to a historical literal interpretation of Scripture – that is the first rule of interpretation seen from a Jewish perspective. Unless the context indicates differently, specific numbers and names in Scripture must be interpreted literally; and there is no reason to accept from the context that the names and numbers of the Tribes of Israel here are figurative. In fact, the phrase “children of Israel” occurs 656 times in the Bible; and not once does it refer to anyone other than the physical descendants of Avraham, Yitsaq, and Yaacob (Israel). The history and division of Israel’s Kingdom into the two Houses are given in detail in the introductory pages of this book.

        Yehudah, although not the firstborn of Israel (who was Re’uben), was chosen by YHWH (as was prophesied by Yaacob on his deathbed) to father the Tribe from which the kings Dawid and Shelomoh (Solomon) – who would rule over all the Tribes of Israel –  would come. Yehudah was also the Tribe to which all the other Tribes of Israel will eventually gather; to be ruled by the eternal King of Israel – the Messiah – who is also a descendant of Yehudah, Dawid, and Shelomoh (Gen 49:10). This designation of Judah by YHWH to be the royal Tribe of Israel is apparently why he is listed first in Revelation 7.

        Menashsheh, the son of Yoseph and adopted son of Israel, replaces Isra’el’s son, Dan, on this list. The possible reasons for Dan being replaced by Manasseh are listed at the end of the chapter.

        Another puzzling part of this prophecy is that Yoseph is listed among the Tribes rather than Ephraim. Yoseph’s inheritance was divided between his sons (known as Isra’el’s adopted sons) Ephraim and Menashsheh. And Isra’el told Yoseph that Ephraim would become a “multitude of nations” (Gen 48:19). Then, when Isra’el died, his first-born’s birthright inheritance went to Ephraim rather than to Reuben (1 Chron 5:1). So, why is the Tribe of Ephraim not among the twelve Tribes listed in Revelation 7? A possible answer might be that the Tribes are listed in the TaNaCh (1 Chron 5-8) according to their natural, physical birth order; but they are listed in the Revelation according to their place in the plan of YHWH and their relationship to Him. That is why Yehudah, the ancestor of King Dawid and of the King of Kings who will reign from Dawid’s throne over all Israel in the ultimate Kingdom of YHWH (Isaiah 9:6-7) is listed first; and why Menashsheh is listed in the place of Dan – the evil, idolatrous Tribe. Likewise, although Ephraim (as was prophesied) received the double-portion birthright inheritance, Jeroboam (an Ephraimite) rebelled against Solomon, King of Israel (1 Kings 11:26). Then later (after Solomon’s death) when his son Rehoboam took over as King of Judea, Jeroboam led the Northern Ten Tribes in rebellion against Rehoboam and Judea, establishing the Northern Kingdom. This Kingdom continued to be called “Isra’el” with Shechem (in the mountains of Ephraim) as its capital (1 Kings 12:19, 25). After that, Isra’el (then also called “Ephraim”) moved further and further away from the religious practices of the Southern Kingdom (which – after the division of the kingdom, was stripped of the name “Isra’el” and was just called “Yehudah”) and into idolatrous practices that were instituted by Jeroboam. Although Ephraim had received the birthright inheritance in the Promised Land, he actually received it as the proxy for his father Yoseph, who remained in Egypt until he died; and to whom (as the natural son of Israel) the inheritance technically belonged (1 Chron 5:2). In fact, in some TaNaCh passages the names Isra’el, Yoseph, and Ephraim are used interchangeably (Ezek 37:16). And that is probably why Yoseph (who is the clearest type of the Messiah of any of the sons of Isra’el) is listed – rather than his son Ephraim among the Tribes of the 144,000.

“After these things I looked” indicates another major shift in focus. We are now back in Heaven and millions and millions of people are seen, so much that Yochanan could not count them.

        It doesn’t refer to some denominations; it says souls who are saved during the Great Tribulation (verse 14) out of all the nations, tribes, people and languages – the Bride of Messiah.

        This innumerable multitude from all nations (which in Greek is ethnos, meaning “ethnic groups”) from tribes, from peoples  (which is Greek for phule – which is another form for “nations” and languages).

        These are also seen shouting similar words of praise following the final destruction of the kingdom of satan (Babylon) at the end of the Great Tribulation (19:1-2); meaning, this scene is a preview of what will occur at the end of the Great Tribulation – after the blowing of the Last Trump (see commentary on 11:14-19). These are the redeemed, resurrected, and glorified Believers of all ages; because no other group of human beings was wearing white robes of righteousness and having salvation.

        “Palm branches” in Greek is called “Phoinix” and symbolizes victory. In biblical times, waving palm branches was a traditional greeting for a conquering hero or king – as when those who believed that Y’shua was the Messiah greeted Him as He rode into Jerusalem (Matt 21:9).

Four groups are present: All the millions and millions of angels, together with innumerable numbers of Believers, the Elders and the four Living Creatures. All worshipping God together – can you imagine it?

Blessing/Glory– praise.

Esteem/Wisdom– omniscience.

Thanksgiving – Heb 13:15-16.

Respect/Honour – reputation.

Power– omnipotence.

Might – strength.

        “Amen” means “So be it” or “That settles it”.

One of the 24 sitting around the throne asks who these multitutes are. The elder was testing Yochanan to see if Yochanan knew who the ones in white robes were. The Ruach also wants to make sure that there is no misunderstanding concerning the people before the throne.

       As said, when Yochanan had this vision, it was at the end of the Tribulation period; and he saw all the Believers (the full amount Y’shua wanted) that were killed during the Great Tribulation period (Rev 6:11). They washed their robes (meaning, they accepted Y’shua as Messiah and lived a set-apart life through Torah). At this point in time, they are joined by those souls who had been under the altar and had been given their white robes but had been told to “rest a little while longer, until both the number of their fellow servants and their brethren, who would be killed as they were, was completed” (6:11). And this confirms what Y’shua said: “For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened” (Matt 24:21-22). Some argue that “His elect” in Matt 24:31 refers only to the Remnant of Israel who will be hidden, protected, and nourished on Earth during the Great Tribulation, but both common sense and YHWH’s Word negate that interpretation: “Elect” is used to refer to ancient Israel in only three TaNaCh passages – and all three of those are in Isaiah (Isaiah 45:4; 65:9, 22) in prophecies regarding the Millennium. But in the B’rit Hadashah, “elect” refers to both ancient Israel (Rom 11:7) and the Followers of Y’shua (Col 3:12) – but mostly the Followers of Y’shua.

        “Day and night” means “on-going or never-ending” – as there will be no night in the New Jerusalem (Rev 21:25).

        “His Dwelling Place”: Typified by the Temple on the earth where the Priests of Isra’el served; there is a Temple in Heaven where the Redeemed, who are all Priests in the Kingdom of Heaven (cf. 1:6) will serve. (That is why the Rapture must be before the Seven Year Tribulation Period for the Pre-Trib Theorists; because a Priest must be sanctified in the Temple for a shabuah, meaning a period of seven (Lev 8:33).)

        “Dwell among them”: As Jewish grooms prepared a home (which was attached to their parents’ home) for their brides before they were married, Y’shua told His Disciples before His ascension into Heaven that He was going to prepare a place for them in His Father’s house so that where He was they could be also; and He would dwell with them (John 14:2, 3; 21:3). (Another reason for the Pre-Trib Theorists – because according to weddings in the TaNaCh, they stayed in the chuppah for a shabuah; and it is also so according to the ancient Jewish Wedding Model. (Gen 28:27) “And Laban said to Jacob: "Let the seven days of the feast of this one pass by, and I shall give thee Rachel”.)

        Y’shua will never be absent from them again (Rev 21:3) as they will be with Him in the New Jerusalem City and He wil spread His Tent cover over them; meaning, He will protect and look after them.

The heat refers to the fires of persecution as described in 1 Peter 1:17.

Meaning, there will be no more sorrow or hurt, etc. This will be covered in great detail in chapters 21 and 22.

The Four Corners of the Earth

Many critics have laughed at the phrase, “four corners of the earth” (Rev 7:1; Isaiah 11:12); but YHWH’s Word always vindicates itself in time. Scientists have now found (via satellites) that the earth actually has “four corners”. The following statement is from “Our Daily Bread” by Rev Richard De Haan, teacher of the Radio Bible Class and quoted from the author Henry G. Bosch:

“After thousands of years, science is slowly catching up with some of the truths expressed in Scripture. Despite the weak-kneed, faithless attitude assumed by some who think they have to apologize for certain unpopular passages in the Word of God, it is amazing the way recent findings are establishing what the Bible has said for millenniums. In the process of the advance of true learning, many long-standing scientific opinions, which seemed to conflict with the Scriptures, are now themselves being discredited. A case in point is the expression concerning the “four corners of the earth”. How the higher critics have gloated over that text, contending it proved the Bible was unreliable, unscientific and the product of the uninformed and misguided opinions of the past.

Recently, the following well-authenticated report appeared which verified the accuracy of the Scriptures. Said the scientists at John Hopkins University: “’The four corners of the earth’ are more than poetic fancy. They really exist.” A series of military satellites have detected the “corners” in the form of four plateau-like areas, so vast and subtle that ordinary means of measuring have left them unnoticed until now. They were found to be equidistant, each covering several thousand square miles. The first height was centered in Ireland; the second extends from New Guinea across the equator towards Japan; the third lies south of the tip of Africa and extends halfway to Australia; while the fourth is west of Peru. Dr. Robert R.Newton, supervisor of space research analysis at the John Hopkins physics laboratory, said the findings resulted from “radio soundings taken from six satellites launched between 1961 and 1963”. These plateaus exerted a greater gravitational force on the satellites and pulled them closer to the earth; thus revealing the actual presence of the “four corners of the earth.”

Why Dan was not Sealed?

Although it is not clear, it may have been prophesied by Israel (Gen 49:17) that Dan was a treacherous, violent “serpent” – a satanically-influenced character. Rather than establishing cities in the territory allotted to him, the tribe of Dan ruthlessly attacked and took over other cities (Judges 18:27-29); and the Tribe of Dan was heavily involved in idolatry (Judges 18:30; 1 Kings 12:29; Amos 8:14). So, although the Tribe of Dan will have a place in the Millennial Messianic Kingdom (Ezek 48:1-2), he will not be represented among the righteous 144,000.

A Literal Mark or Not?

Theory 1 – Physical:

1.        This is plainly stated in verse 3; and applying the Hebraic rules of interpretation, then we must accept when the first rule says that Scripture must be accepted as literal that the mark is literal.

2.        It is an object of sight, for direction is given to the first four Trumpet judgment angels not to execute their judgments until they are sealed in their foreheads (verse 3; Rev 8:7-12).

3.        Special direction is given to the fifth and sixth judgment angels not to hurt the 144,000 (Rev 9:4).

4.       The mark of the beast is literal (Rev 13:16-18; Rev 14:9; Rev 20:4), and so this must be, also (Rev 14:1).

5.        It is the name of Elohim in the forehead (verse 3; Rev 14:1; Rev 22:4).

6.        Literal names will be branded on the overcomers (Rev 3:12; Rev 22:4); and this indicates the name of Elohim on the 144,000 will also be literal (Rev 14:1).

7.        See the letter "Tahv" at the end of Chapter 22 for more information.

Theory 2 – Figurative:

The following are verses that refer to a seal of YHWH. John 6:27, “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath YHWH the Father sealed”. 2 Cor 1:22, “Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Ruach in our hearts”. Eph 1:13, “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Ruach HaKodesh of promise”; and Eph 4:30, “And grieve not the Ruach HaKodesh of YHWH, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” Note that the verses seem to indicate a figurative seal; not a physical seal. The following verses would seem to be a physical seal of some kind on the forehead:

Rev 7:2-3: 2, “And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living Elohim: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3 Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our Elohim in their foreheads”. Rev 9:4 And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of Elohim in their foreheads.”

At this point, let's define a seal. The seal of a king contains three things: first, the name; second, his title or claim to authority; and thirdly, the region of his rule. (Henry VIII, King of Britain, Wales and Scotland, for example.) What is the purpose of a King's seal? The Bible tells us clearly:

Dan 6:15-17: 15, “Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed. 16 Then the king commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy Elohim whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee. 17 And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and with the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel.”

So the seal of the King is a statement that his decree is not to be changed by anyone. Rom 4:11 “And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:” Note that the sign of circumcision is also a seal of righteousness.

A sign and a seal are synonymous. Isa 8:16, “Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.” What testimony and law does that mean? Exod 26,  “And thou shalt put the mercy seat upon the ark of the testimony in the most holy place.” Exod 31:18,  “And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of Elohim.” Exod 32:15, “And Moses turned, and went down from the mount, and the two tables of the testimony were in his hand: the tables were written on both their sides; on the one side and on the other were they written.” Exod 34:29, “And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.”

Neh 9:38, “And because of all this we make a sure covenant, and write it; and our princes, Levites, and priests, seal unto it.” Neh 10:29, “They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse, and into an oath, to walk in Elohim's law (Torah), which was given by Moses the servant of Elohim, and to observe and do all the commandments of YHWH our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes; 2 Tim 2:19: “Nevertheless the foundation of Elohim standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Messiah depart from iniquity. 1 John 2:4, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments (Torah), is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”

To depart from iniquity (sin) is to keep YHWH's Torah. The disciples of Elohim – those who know, and are known by Elohim and call on the name of Messiah – are sealed with His Torah. The seal of YHWH is in His Torah; so clearly this is a symbolic seal, not a literal one.

Zayin letter – Numerical value 7

Meaning (zayin): Focal point of Spirit, sustenance and struggle.

Embedded in the Chapter: As the number 6 is the number of man and falls short of the glory of YHWH; number 7 is YHWH’s number for completion.

There is then no coincidence that we find the two groups of people that mean the most to YHWH in chapter 7. The first group is the 144,000 Israelites who are personally sealed by YHWH. They are sealed to be sustained when they will proclaim the Good Newsduring a time of struggling through the evil world during the Great Tribulation on earth. YHWH is the one who carries (sustains) His people Israel – from the womb to their old age.

The second group in chapter 7 are all the Believers from Shavuot (Pentecost) – the raptured Believers and the souls coming out of the Great Tribulation period. These are Y’shua’s Bride. In other words, “7” (chapter) is YHWH’s perfect number (fullness); and here the full, complete and perfect numbered Bride is in heaven (fully sustained) as well as the 144,000 Israelites who struggle (also fully sustained) through the Tribulation Period on earth; and Rev 7:16 says, “they shall hunger no more” (the focal point of sustenance)!

Jewish scholars have written that ‘zayin’ comprises the 6 physical directions of expansion (east, west, north, south, up and down) plus one – representing its own individual focal point – which adds to 7. Not only does YHWH sustain us in the midst of difficulties, but He promises a “rest” from the struggle (as the number 7 stands for the Sabbath in which man has to rest). Six thousand years of world history is now complete, and we are presently about to enter the Millennial Reign of Y’shua (the peace period of YHWH), which will take place after the Tribulation Period.

Revelation Chapter 8

Last Seal and the Trumpet Judgments

Background

Chapter 8 finishes off with the seven Seal judgments and introduces us to the seven Trumpet judgments. (first to fourth Trumpet judgments). During the seven Trumpet judgments, we will deal with demons out of the bottomless pit (fifth Trumpet judgment in chapter 9); and therefore, it is crucial to understand the Spirit World.

To ensure continuity in the discussion of the seven Trumpet judgments, it is suggested to read the “Understanding the Mysterious Spirit World from a Hebraic Perspective” book before the beginning of the Trumpet judgments (and not in chapter 9 where the demons in the fifth Trumpet judgment are). If you do not understand the Spirit World, you will find it difficult to understand the Revelation book in full; but the author has done his best to explain the concepts of the Spirit World as thoroughly as possible in this book.

The Trumpet judgments were prophesied by Enoch as recorded in the Book of Jude 14-15 and by the psalmist (Psalm 96:13). Sha’ul also confirmed these judgments in Acts 17:31 (Rom 1:18).

1 And when He opened the seventh seal, there came to be silence in the heaven for about half an hour.

2 And I saw the seven messengers who stand before Elohim, and to them were given seven trumpets.

3 And another messenger came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer, and much incense was given to him, that he should offer it with the prayers of all the set-apart ones upon the golden altar which was before the throne.

4 And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the set-apart ones, went up before Elohim from the hand of the messenger.

5 And the messenger took the censer, and filled it with fire from the altar, and threw it to the earth. And there were noises, and thunders, and lightnings, and an earthquake.

6 And the seven messengers who held the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.

7 And the first messenger sounded, and there came to be hail and fire mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth. And a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up.

8 And the second messenger sounded, and what looked like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea, and a third of the sea became blood,

9 and a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed.

10 And the third messenger sounded, and a great star fell from the heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the fountains of water,

11 and the name of the star is called Wormwood. And a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.

12 And the fourth messenger sounded, and a third of the sun was struck, and a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them were darkened. And a third of the day did not shine, and likewise the night.

13 And I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in mid-heaven, crying with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe to those dwelling upon the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three messengers who are about to sound!”

The Wrath of Elohim is about to start. When the last seal is opened, it reveals the judgment on the inside of the scroll; there is a gloomy, awesome calm in Heaven before the most devastating “storm” in history (referring to the Trumpet and Bowl judgments of the Wrath of YHWH). With the sealing of the 144,000, the four angels (7:1) will now release the winds of destruction on Earth.

        The picture plays off in Heaven in front of all the angels, the four Cherubim, the twenty-four Elders and the Redeemed Believers and brings the entire heaven to a standstill.

        What they saw must have been absolutely horrendous, because it caused silence in Heaven for half an hour; this is the silence    before a storm with a magnitude that is beyond comprehension.

Seven physical angels with seven trumpets to start the period of the wrath of Elohim.

        Trumpets are warning signals and summons to repentance (Exod 19:16,19) and to announce significant events; including (in prophesy) the Day of YHWH (Joel 2:1).

In the TaNaCh, incense was offered on the Incense Altar, which stood before the veil just before the Holy of Holies in the Temple. The Ark stood in the Holy of Holies, where YHWH’s presence       was (Exod 30:1-10). Every morning when the High Priest tended the       Menorah, at that time he had to burn incense before YHWH (Lev 2:2). The same is now happening here in heaven; but it is before the throne where YHWH’s presence is. The only difference is that the Angel is possibly our Great High Priest (Y’shua HaMashiach Himself); because He as the Priest offers the Incense. Y’shua also ministers both to YHWH and man (1 Tim 2:5, Heb 7:25; and He is the only one who can execute judgment (verse 5, John 5:22,). Y’shua also appeared as the Angel of the Lord in the TaNaCh in many instances (wrestled with Yaacob, walked among Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace, etc.)

        This is on the Incense Altar – not the Burnt Offering Altar.

Psalm 141:2 says: “Let my prayers be set before You as incense, the lifting of my hands (a sign of surrender) as the evening sacrifice”. These statements of David are shadows of the coming Brit Chadashah spiritual worship seen in the physical offerings (Heb 13:15; 1 Tim 2:8).

        This is the very reason why Believers lift their hands when worshipping (1 Tim 2:8). What is stronger than YHWH’s Word? Traditions and man-made hand-downs render YHWH’s Word       powerless (Matt 15:6; Mark 7:13) – make sure you worship with lifted arms.

        It is not clear which saints’ prayers it is, it could be one of the following:

     The Believers under the burnt offering altar of the fifth seal; (6:9).

     Or it could be those of the Believers that are currently going through the Tribulation period;

     Or it could be the prayers of all the Believers throughout history;

     Or it could include all of the above.

YHWH’s wrath has now started because the Angel took fire and threw it to the earth, indicating that judgment is coming directly from the throne room of Elohim.

        An awesome amount of energy is released every time there is activity close to the heavenly ark (also in Rev 11:19).

        This is the second earthquake on earth.

        What a solemn contrast from the solemn silence of verse 1, now every noise imaginable is heard as judgment is prepared.

Nobody knows exactly what this is; but if YHWH could turn the Nile into blood, then we must accept that He can throw hail and fire mingled with blood on the earth.

        Theory 1: Some try to naturalize these plagues by saying the blood is the blood of animals and humans killed, the mountain thrown into the sea is a meteoroid, and so forth.

        Theory 2: Others equate them to nuclear holocaust.

        Theory 3: Hail, fire, and blood mixed (whether or not they involve natural or human-caused phenomena), are supernaturally induced and arranged (unlike the events of the six Seals, which are all natural or man-made occurrences).

        Similar scourges caused by YHWH are prophesied in the TaNaCh during the Gog and Magog War (Ezek 38:22).

        With this one judgment, famine will increase drastically as a third of man’s environment is devastated.

It is not a mountain; it says, “looked like a great mountain” – it is something like a mountain. It could be an undersea volcanic eruption or a meteor or asteroid blazing like a torch; or, as said above, devastation orchestrated direct from Y’shua.

        “Sea became blood”: It happened in Egypt; it will happen once again (Exod 7:14-25; Ezek 14:19).

       Famine will increase drastically with these judgments.

       The impact could create an astonishing tidal wave in one of the seas and sink all the ships and devastate coasts in its path of destruction.

       This will not only affect the food chain, but the economy as well.

This is a literal star; and not just a star, a “great star” blazing like a torch. (Read Isaiah 13:13.)

        More famine, pestilence and death.

Elohim created all the stars, knows their location, and has named them (Job 9:9). He knows where Wormwood is and it will happen!!! (Read about Wormwood at the end of the chapter.)

         This one will make the water bitter; or rather, poisonous as thousands will die.

This shortens or darkens the day by a third, and a third part of the night will be extremely dark. I can only guess that when the Wormwood star collides with the earth at 73,000 km/h, it will have a devastating effect on the survival of mankind.

        The net result of the first four Trumpet judgments destroys a third of the earth’s life-support resources.

Another Hidden Menorah: the “sun” is the middle point of the seven Trumpet judgments; and here the sun is affected to lose a third of its power.

Some Bibles, as The Scriptures say here “eagle” instead of “angel”; the original Greek text is “angel”.

         Three times the angel said “sorrow/distress”, and refers to the last three Trumpet judgments, which will be so horrendous that words will not be able to describe it.

Rogue Star Could Cause Chaos – Star Newspaper - May 1996

“During President Yeltsin’s recent visit to China, a comment was made by his Chinese hosts which escaped the media’s attention. Pres. Yeltsin urged the Chinese to sign the comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty. Beijing refused, claiming they needed to continue to work on a bomb that could be used against an asteroid heading towards earth.

The Chinese were referring to the rogue star named Wormwood. According to scientists, Wormwood is about five times larger than the earth and will pass within 40 million km, a mere stone’s throw in galactic terms. The star will appear as large as a full moon; its gravitational pull will cause incredible storms, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Depending on the actual heat emanating from the star, the polar ice caps, oceans and rivers will turn into steam. Ultimately the earth will be ripped out of its orbit and hurled either into the sun or into the vastness of outer space. International scientists have been tracking Wormwood for the past four years.

The star was located in the Oort cloud at the edge of our solar system. Calculations indicate that the star is destined to enter the solar system around the turn of this century. United States and Russian military scientists are working feverishly to build and deploy an array of nuclear missiles in the hope of blasting Wormwood from colliding with earth.”

Presently they discovered more and “bigger stones” that are coming towards our planet! Yes, man wanted to stone the Messiah at His first coming; but the Messiah will be the last one to throw stones – this time at His second coming.

The Meaning of Wormwood

Wormwood: “bitterness or extremely bitter; absinth; to dip one’s pen in gall; cup of bitterness, bitter absinthine, an absinthe drink”.

Chet letter – Numerical value 8

Meaning (chet or heth): = A new beginning; new life; a metaphysical letter above this existence.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter ‘chet’ is associated with transcendence, life and grace. These are the qualities of a new birth, or of Elohim’s character and purpose.

The scroll that Y’shua took from YHWH in chapter 5 has 7 seals;when the 7th seal is broken, the scroll unrolls and opens completely. Here, the wicked, the perpetual enemy of the redeemed, is at last exposed to Elohim’s full wrath. The destruction will finally come at the end of this age as seen in chapter 8. It comes with devastating destruction with the starting of the Trumpet judgments, which brings a new birth of Elohim’s purpose. However, it all began with Messiah's finished work and the commencement of the New Covenant age.

When Messiah is about to return and take us into a new age of transcendence, He will destroy the Antichrist’s  wicked system – starting with the Trumpet judgments. Jewish scholars have written that as the number 8,                                ‘chet’ goes beyond 7 to symbolise man’s ability to transcend the limitations of physical existence. Similar to the musical notes in an octave, ‘chet’ appears to be another ‘aleph’, only on a higher scale: the completion of the first cycle of 7 and the beginning of a new cycle of the next 7.

The progression of letters may also be compared to the days of the week, of which ‘chet’ is the first day of the new week; i.e., there are 7 days in a week. The 8th day is the first day of the new week. As said, the Hebrew letter ‘chet’ refers to the qualities of transcendence, life and grace. But a similar Hebrew word, ‘cheit’ (meaning sin) has a similar pronunciation. In this sense, this letter can be seen as a conflict between the grace of YHWH and the sin of man, with Elohim triumphant in the struggle.

Revelation Chapter 9

The Trumpet Judgments Continue

Background

This chapter contains the lengthy discussion which covers Trumpet judgments five and six. Both of them involve demonic activities.

1 And the fifth messenger sounded, and I saw a star from the heaven which had fallen to the earth. And the key to the pit of the deep was given to it.

2 And he opened the pit of the deep, and smoke went up out of the pit like the smoke of a great furnace. And the sun was darkened, also the air, because of the smoke of the pit.

3 And out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth, and authority was given to them as the scorpions of the earth possess authority.

4 And it was said to them that they shall not harm the grass of the earth, or any green matter, or any tree, but only those men who do not have the seal of Elohim upon their foreheads.

5 And it was given to them that they should not kill them, but to torture them for five months. And their torture was like the torture of a scorpion when it stings a man.

6 And in those days men shall seek death and shall not find it. And they shall long to die, but death shall flee from them.

7 And the locusts looked like horses prepared for battle, and on their heads were crowns like gold, and their faces were like the faces of men.

8 And they had hair like women’s hair, and their teeth were like lions’ teeth.

9 And they had breastplates like breastplates of iron, and the sound of their wings was like the sound of chariots of many horses running into battle.

10 And they have tails like scorpions, and stings. And in their tails is their authority to harm men five months.

11 And they have over them a sovereign, the messenger of the pit of the deep, whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, but in Greek he has the name Apolluon.

12 The first woe is past. See, two woes are still coming after this.

13 And the sixth messenger sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before Elohim,

14 saying to the sixth messenger who had the trumpet, “Release the four messengers, those having been bound at the great river Euphrates.”

15 And the four messengers, those having been prepared for the hour and day and month and year, were released to kill a third of mankind.

16 And the number of the armies of the horsemen was two hundred million, and I heard the number of them.

17 And this is how I saw the horses in the vision and those who sat on them, having breastplates of fiery red, and hyacinth blue, and sulphur yellow. And the heads of the horses were like the heads of lions, and out of their mouths came fire, and smoke, and sulphur.

18 A third of mankind was killed by these three plagues, by the fire and the smoke and the sulphur which came out of their mouths.

19 For the authority of the horses is in their mouth and in their tails, for their tails are like serpents, having heads. And with them they do harm.

20 And the rest of mankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands, that they should not worship the demons, and idols of gold, and of silver, and of brass, and of stone, and of wood, which are neither able to see, nor to hear, nor to walk.

21 And they did not repent of their murders, nor of their drug sorceries, nor of their whoring, nor of their thefts.

It is an angelic being but it is not clear if it is a fallen angel of Lucifer or of YHWH.

        Theory 1: The fact that it “falls” is a strong possibility that it is possibly a fallen angel that is cast out from heaven. YHWH’s angels normally fly (14:6).

        Theory 2: The translation of the Greek word pipto as “fall” here may be misleading, because it simply means to descend from a higher to a lower place. In light of 20:1, in which the angel with the key to the Bottomless Pit is an Angel of YHWH (some say Y’shua Himself), this also may be an angel sent by YHWH.

        “The key to the pit of the deep was given to it” (the Angel).

        The “Pit of the Deep” is the Bottomless Pit and is somewhere in the earth. It is currently locked until the Great Tribulation’s        period’s fifth Trumpet is sounded. It is the reservoir of evil where evil spirits are imprisoned and the place where the demons did not want Y’shua to send them to (Matt 8:29, Luke 8:31). Ultimately, Y’shua has the key to the underworld and allows anyone He chooses to open the gate of the pit; locks anyone He chooses (including satan) in the pit; and allows anyone He chooses (including satan) out of the pit (Luke 8:31; Rev 20:1-3, 7).

There is a great furnace in the bottomless pit. When this happens, only those who believe and know the Word of YHWH, will understand why the sun was darkened (Joel 2:2).

These are demons and looked like locusts to Yochanan. Locusts in the TaNaCh are referred to as innumerable (Judges 7:12; Nahum 3:17).

        They were given the same power as when a scorpion strikes you – excruciating pain! You have all the power now available, to trample on serpents and scorpions (satan’s powers and demons), and nothing will hurt you (Luke 10:19); but one day if you refuse to repent, these demons will take revenge on you.

This is the first proof that they are not locusts, as locusts can not take commands. They are also “intelligent” beings because they are able to take commands. It is very possible that this is part of the group of fallen angels or evil spirits/demons that were locked up in Tartarus (Jude 6-8). Some Believers feel the fallen angels in Tartarus will only be released “for their judgment in the Great Day” which they refer to as the Great White Throne, but the judgment can also refer to the Tribulation Period with the appearance of Y’shua. Why is the abyssos unlocked? – See explanation in verse 11.

        All people on the earth must be harmed (including those that had repented by now?), except the 144,000 Jews who were sealed were to be attacked as instructed by YHWH (See various Theories at Rev 3:10).

        They were also commanded not to attack any vegetation, all their focus was to be on humans. The first four Trumpets were against nature; the last three will be directly focused against humans; and this is why the angel said “Woe, woe, woe!”

         These evil creatures can kill but were instructed not to. Their purpose was not to destroy, but to afflict mankind with excruciating pain for a fixed period of five months (the same length of time as the flood Gen 7:24) as the Scripture gives a fixed time. No medicine will cure them or relieve the pain. They will desire to die, but will not! Note that Yochanan indicates only two groups of persons on the earth during this time: the       reprobate ones afflicted by the demonic locusts and the 144,000 sealed Jews, perhaps intimating that the Bride must be in heaven when this terrible judgment falls on the earth.

        It must be noted that these “locusts” are given limited power (authority) to inflict pain but not to destroy life-support resources or to otherwise kill people. Although their power comes from satan, it is limited by YHWH who is ultimately in control, orchestrating events on earth for His ultimate glory. Neither satan, his angels, nor his people can do anything without YHWH permitting it (Job 2:6).

This is the description of the demons or fallen angels that came out of the bottomless pit. “Like horses” speaks of strength and speed; “on their heads were crowns like gold” speaks of royalty, a picture of conquerors; “faces of men” denoting intelligence; “hair like women’s hair” picturing attractiveness (appears as angels of the light); “teeth were like lions’ teeth” portrays cruelty; “breastplates of iron” picturing strength; “sound of chariots” denoting calamity; and “tails like scorpions” portrays devastation.

         This is the only judgment that has a fixed time period mentioned.

This is the second proof that these are not insects or animals; we are told they have a “king” over them, and the king reins over the Bottomless Pit “Abyssos” in Greek, also “Abaddon” in Hebrew. Yochanan gives the name in both Hebrew and Greek (for Jew and Gentile). Abaddon means “Destruction” in Hebrew, and Apolluon/Apollyon is Greek for “Destroyer.”

       In the TaNaCh, Abaddon refers to the place of the dead (Prov 15:11), death (Job 28:22), and the grave (Psalm 88:1). Also, we learn from Heb 11:28 that “he who destroyed” is the angel of death who killed the first born of the Egyptians (Exod 12:23). In the Brit Chadashah, a form of the name Apollyon, apoleia (“perdition”) is used to refer to Judas Iscariot (John 17:12) to the anti-messiah (2 Thes 2:3); and Apollyon also means devastator, destroyer, ruiner or destructor (1 Cor 10:10) – one of the gods of Greek mythology. This is another example of a hierarchy among fallen angels. So this “Prince of the Pit” (apparently a ruling angel) should be associated in the minds of both the Jews (Judah) and the Followers of Y’shua (Gentiles/Nations, the Ten Tribers) with the destroyer (Satan), Death, and Hell. This angel does not refer to satan himself, but to one of his generals.

       If this fallen angel (who is the king over the demons) is the “fallen star” to whom 9:1 refers, then Y’shua gave him the keys that He took away from satan when He died on the stake! The “king” now opens the pit, to release all the evil spirits that must aid the false-messiah now!

       In the 17th degree of Freemasonry, the mason must say the secret word “ABADDON” whilst being initiated from “Moral and Dogma of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Free Masonry” by Albert Pike a 330 mason. (See write-up below).

       There are only four angels named in the Scriptures: Michael and Gabriel (the two righteous angels from YHWH) as well as Lucifer (satan) and Abaddon.

       Five months for the first “woe” to pass, another two are still to come.

        Unlike “after these things I looked” (4:1), which denotes primarily a change in visions, “after this” (without the “I looked”) indicates a new time-sequence event.

This voice is from the throne area, where the Incense Altar is directly in front of Elohim. The biblical altars in the TaNaCh had four horns (one on each corner) replicas of this one in heaven.

        These are fallen angels of satan, and have been locked up at the Euphrates river, which was in Biblical times in Babylon (Gen 15:18; Deut 1:7; Joshua 1:4; Rev 16:12). The fact that they are bound proves that they are fallen angels. In chapter 7 verse 1, we saw four righteous angels holding back the judgments of YHWH, and now these are set free to wreak havoc.

        The Euphrates river still exists today and is running through       Iraq, this river plays a major role in the endtimes, as we will study later. Some scholars believe that this is where civilization started (Garden of Eden (Gen 2:10-14)); but this is also the place of the first organized earthly rebellion against YHWH. Nimrod built Babylon there. Nimrod means, “to rebel” (Gen 10:8-10). This is also where Saddam Hussein started to rebuild the new city of Babylon.

        Elohim specially prepared them for the hour, day, month and year for the Great Tribulation period; and they will kill a third of those who are left over from the other plagues.

        Preterists claim that the events of Revelation occurred during the first century or two of the “Church Age”, Historosists say it has been occurring throughout the past 2,000 years – but this verse argues strongly against those hypotheses: At no specific hour, day, month, or year in history has one-third of the earth’s population been killed, much less by creatures as described here or in the ways described here.

        By the three agents of death released by the two hundred million—the fire, the smoke, and the brimstone—another third of humanity is killed. That is over five and one-half billion or two-thirds of the earth’s population who have been killed so far during the Great Tribulation, with the seven bowls of YHWH’s Wrath and “Armageddon” yet to come.

These are 200,000,000 demons or fallen angels; not soldiers, as we will see in verse 17. It is also possible that they will manifest in the     exact form and shape as described. This could be either Nephilim or it could be that these demons incarnate/possess the soldiers of the armies of the east which cause them to march up for the Battle of Armageddon. Mao Tse Tsung of Red China boasted in 1984 already that it could field an army of 200,000,000 soldiers. A “new foreign god” will also empower them (Dan 11:38-39).

Yochanan first heard the exact number of these demons; then he saw them. The possibility exists that the reference in Joel 2:3-9 refers to this demon-possessed army with their modern weaponry.

All 3 of these things are associated with things that you get in the underworld (Mark 9:43-48; Rev 9:2; Rev 20:10).

       They are described as absolutely demonic in nature.

Is it possible that man can go through all of this and still refuse to repent? (Deut 31:29).

        The first of the five sins they will not repent from: worshipping devils (fallen angels) or demons (Lev 19:31; Lev 20:6; Deut 18:10-12; Deut 31:29; Exod 20:4-5; Psalm 115:4-8; 1 Cor 10:20).

        The second sin is murder. They will murder each other (Matt 24:37; Gen 6:11). The Greek word for “drug sorceries” is “pharmakeia” (from which pharmacy is derived), which generally describes the use of medicine, drugs or spells. The literal meaning here is an "enchantment with drugs" or to "get high" – this will be mankind's first mass-usage of drugs. It was later used for poisoning and then sorcery; accompanied by drugs, incantations, charms, and magic (21:8; 22:15). The word "witchcraft" in Gal 5:19-21 in the English Bible is "pharmakeia" in the Greek. Theft and robberies will be the order of the day; as that is the direct result of feeding the addiction of drugs. These will steal and rob from even their own loved ones; and lastly sexual immorality (including lust).

        The one-third of mankind remaining on the earth are so hardened in the confidence that they can save themselves (by “the works of their hands”) and in their confidence in the power of riches or inanimate objects (which is actually the worship of demons ( 2 Chron 11:15), that they refuse to repent of the sins.

Notice that by this point in time, mankind is beyond hope; the Gospel has no effect. There is no appeal for anyone to repent, as it is just noted that no one does repent. The only inhabitants left on the earth (other than the Israelites and the Gentiles who came into the Commonwealth of Israel) are earth dwellers—“vessels of wrath prepared for destruction” (Rom 9:22).

Freemasonary

A insert, called “FREEMASONRY – A WAY OF LIFE”, appeared in many metropolitan areas in the USA. It pictured Freemasonry as a family-centered, fraternal, benevolent organization “as American as apple pie!” (Page 7). Not only does the article demonstrate the strength of Freemasonry among all political leaders (both past and present), but makes much use of the Bible and its foundational belief in “God”.

Masonry has a very strong representation in Christian denominations throughout the world. Masons are involved as deacons, elders, board members and pastors. Their claim and the claim of every Mason to the world is that Masonry and Christianity are totally compatible. They say that religion is the experience of relating to God and Masonry is the experience of relating to mankind. While separate, they can and do naturally co-exist.

They claim Masonry is NOT a religion in any sense of the word, yet it is religious. Church membership is not a requirement, and membership of ANY denomination is not a barrier to admission. There is nothing in the requirements of Masonry to prevent a Catholic, a Mohammedan, a Jew, a Buddhist, a Protestant, a Mormon, or any member of a religion from becoming a member. On the surface for the average man, this might seem quite reasonable; but, when it comes to my own worship of Elohim and His revelation to me or His Word, they are worlds apart!

Freemasonry is deceptive, period! It should be exposed – It is that simple. Below are some examples of how the Bible is abused and what Masonry TRULY teaches behind its closed doors and through its own publications.

NO “anti-Masonic” publications will be cited in explaining their TRUE theological position here. The key document from which I quote is the most readily available and universally-approved doctrinal book of Freemasonry, “Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry” by Albert Pike, Grand Commander, 1859-1891. Its title page states that it was prepared for the “Supreme Council for the 33rd Degree and Published by its Authority”. Originally published in 1871, I have used the 1966 edition. Except where other sources are noted, I cite page numbers only when using this work. Emphases within quotes are my own.

Washed in their own blood:

In the 17th degree (or “Knights in the East and West”), after the candidates have completed the initiation and after revealing the password (Jubulum) and the Sacred Word (ABADDON), the Senior Warden escorts the Candidate to the elevated canopy at the right of the ‘All Puissant’ (Having great power or influence).

“This is supposed to represent the end of the world when all good Masons receive their reward by being escorted to a throne at the right hand of the All Puissant, having been purified by washing their robes in their own blood”. In the discourse that follows between the All Puissant and the Senior Warden, the Book of the Seven Seals – which none but one can open (Rev 5:5) – is twisted to represent “A Lodge or Council of Masons which the All Puissant alone has the right to convene or open”. The fourth Seal is represented by a skull or “Death’s Head”, and Masons are told it “is the image of a brother who is excluded from a Lodge or Council”. The fifth Seal is represented by a “cloth stained with blood”. The All Puissant identifies this as symbolic “that we should not hesitate to spill ours for

the good of Masonry” (Scottish Rite Masonry Illustrated, The Complete Ritual, vol. 1, pp 453, 456-7, E Cook Published 1974).

What a gross misrepresentation of YHWH’s Holy Word! First and foremost, it is Y’shua and He alone who “hath prevailed to open the book and loose the seven seals thereof”. To assume that honor and power is to deny Y’shua; or yet in deeper perversity, to replace His power and authority of the power to save and to enthrone. This is the very spirit of the Antichrist, the false messiah!

Again, another clue to the true identity of the Masonic Deity is revealed in the “Sacred Word” of this ritual, “Abaddon”. In Rev 9:11, we learn that “they (the demons and workers from hell) had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is ABADDON!” If there is any fear of YHWH, they will bring no satanic fallen angels into their rituals. Bottom line, Freemasonary is Luciferic!

Tet letter  – Numerical value 9

Meaning (tet or teth): = Serpent; objective good – that which appears evil but is for our improvement.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter ‘tet’ is called ‘the symbol of objective good.’ It is sometimes referred to as ‘the good that appeared evil.’

The first time this letter appears in the Hebrew text of the Bible is in the word ‘tov’, the Hebrew word for ‘good’. The letter ‘tet’  also speaks of affliction (distress, physically or mentally) with the objective to do good; it appears evil, but the meaning or purpose is good. That which for a time appears evil in the sight of man may actually be good from Elohim’s perspective.

Jewish scholars write that man’s desire for the ‘good life’, or ‘good health’ or ‘good business’ may actually run counter to YHWH’s plan for his life. Here in Revelation chapter 9, we learn that YHWH will judge evil but His judgment is just and tempered with mercy. Also in chapter 9, we witness the starting of the “woes” (sorrows/distress) – the last 3 Trumpet judgments. YHWH exposes evil (serpent) in the most hideous way to refine the nations of the world, to try to get them to repent. YHWH has more compassion for souls and would patiently delay the final judgment to give every evildoer the chance to repent – even through the suffering of the tribulation Believers at this stage. YHWH is concerned about justice, but even more so for mercy. Though it was not pleasant, it is for their own improvement. The ‘locust’ demons (Rev 9:3 – first woe) torment the inhabitants of the earth for five months when the people seek death and cannot find it; and after this, it escalates to the level of 200 million demons (Rev 9:15-16) that will eventually kill a third part of mankind. The ‘demon’ affliction shows the ultimate  ‘objective good’ embedded in the meaning of ‘tet’. Look what Rev 9:20 and 21 say: “and the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of their works of their hands, that they should worship devils” and “neither repented they of their murders, nor their sorceries, nor their fornication, nor of their theft” (KJV).

Revelation Chapter 10

The Mighty Angel with the Little Book

Background

This chapter is similar to that in chapter 7, which was also parenthetical. This chapter stops the flow of action during the sixth Trumpet judgment to explain the Mighty Angel with the little book. At this stage, Yochanan was released from Patmos and wrote chapters 10 onwards while in Ephesus.

1 And I saw another strong messenger coming down from the heaven, robed in a cloud, and a rainbow on his head, and his face was like the sun, and his feet like columns of fire,

2 and having in his hand a little book opened. And he placed his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land,

3 and cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roars. And when he cried out, seven thunders spoke their sounds.

4 And when the seven thunders spoke their sounds, I was about to write, but I heard a voice from the heaven saying to me, “Seal up what the seven thunders spoke, and do not write them.”

5 And the messenger whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land lifted up his right hand to the heaven,

6 and swore by Him who lives forever and ever, who created the heaven and what is in it, the earth and what is in it, and the sea and what is in it, that there shall be no further delay,

7 but in the days of the sounding of the seventh messenger, when he is about to sound, the secret of Elohim shall also be ended, as He declared to His servants the prophets.

8 And the voice which I heard out of the heaven spoke to me again and said, “Go, take the little book which is opened in the hand of the messenger standing on the sea

and on the earth.”

9 And I went to the messenger and said to him, “Give me the little book.” And he said to me, “Take and eat it, and it shall make your stomach bitter, but it shall be as sweet as honey in your mouth.”

10 And I took the little book out of the messenger’s hand and ate it, and it was as sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter.

11 And he said to me, “You have to prophesy again concerning many peoples and nations and tongues and sovereigns.”

First of all, who is the mighty angel? The description of him proves that he is very possibly Y’shua. Let’s look at the description:

        This angel comes from Heaven – so will Y’shua (Ezek 1:26-28).

        When this angel came to earth, there was a cloud present – so will it be when Y’shua returns (Acts 1:9-11; Psalm 97:2; Exod 16:10; Exod 19:9, 16; Exod 40:34, 38; Matt 17:5, Luke 21:27).

        There is a rainbow around the angel’s head; when Y’shua sat on the throne in Rev 4:3, He also had a rainbow around Him.

        The angel’s face was like the sun – so is Y’shua’s (Matt 17:2; Acts 9:3-5).

        The angel’s feet were as pillars of fire; so is Y’shua’s (Rev 1:15).

        The appearance of this angel is also similar to the one who appeared to Daniel (Dan 10:5-8); and who told Daniel to seal the book of prophecy until “the time of the end” (Dan 12:4).

The angel had a book (scroll) in his hands; Y’shua had the scroll with seven seals in His hand (5:5-7).

        When we read of “sea” and “earth” in the Revelation, it refers to groups of people. In chapter 13 we will see that the Beast and his accomplice will come out of a “sea” and an “earth” of people. What this means is that this “angel” (Y’shua) is over these groups of people (stands on them).

        The planting of one foot on the sea and the other on the land may indicate that the implications of what the angel is about to reveal will affect all the people of the world.

        The sea may represent the tumultuous, pagan people of the world (as in 13:1 and 17:15) and the earth may represent organized religion (which seems to be the implication of “earth” in 13:11). Also, the Greek for “earth” (ge) is translated “land” as in the “land of Israel” (Matt 2:20). Organized religion would include Christianity and Judaism.

His voice as a roaring lion identifies him with the Lion of Judah. In the following passages, Y’shua is spoken of as “a lion roaring in the day of YHWH”. (Isaiah 31:4-5; Jer 25:29-30; Hos 11:10-11; Joel 3:16;       Amos 1:2, 3:8; Heb 7:14).

        SPECIAL NOTE: Theophanies and Christophanies were appearances of Y’shua throughout the TaNaCh, usually in the form of an angelic manifestation. This angel of YHWH has always acted and worked as a deity. Proof? Isaiah 63:9: "In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved him: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bore them, and carried them all the days of old." Y’shua appeared as the angel of YHWH in the TaNaCh in many instances (wrestled with Yaacob, walked among Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace, etc).

Yochanan knew what it was but was instructed not to write it down (Psalm 29:3-9; John 12:27-31). It will remain a mystery till Y’shua reveals it.

        It could be the “voices” of Rev 4:5 or the “thunderings” of Rev 8:5). It is also very possible that it was the same vision that Daniel had “to many days in the future” to the time when the Antichrist and the morning and evening sacrifices are in place (Dan 8:23-27). The vision was so horrible that YHWH instructed Daniel “to seal it” – when Daniel got the vision, he fainted afterwards and was sick for days and was utterly shocked. As also is mentioned in 4:5, 8:5, 11:19, 16:18 and 19:6, thunder appears to be associated with the power of Elohim. Here, the seven thunders seem to represent the awesome power of Y’shua in executing His perfect, complete judgment of the world.

Swearing an oath proves him to be a divine person. Never in Scripture does an angel make an oath to Elohim or man (Dan 12:7). Elohim swore or made oaths in fifty Scriptures. In thirty-one other passages, it talks of men swearing oaths to Elohim and man.

        The Angel utters a binding oath that there will be no more delay in the execution and completion of the (final) Wrath of Elohim. This may be a response to the cry of the martyrs under the altar: “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth” (6:10).

        “Time no longer” refers to the time when the seventh Trumpet shall begin to sound. The vision that Yochanan had during the seventh Trumpet pays off at the end of the Tribulation. Let’s read Rev 11:15: “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Messiah” proves this to be at the end of the Tribulation period when Y’shua will be setting up His kingdom.

        This is the same case as in the vision Yochanan had in the parenthetical chapter 7 when he saw all the martyrs at the end of the Tribulation period (Rev 7:14).

        The “mystery of Elohim should be finished” as the glad tidings have been proclaimed to his prophets; points to the Coming again of Y’shua, when everything will have been accomplished.

        The mystery is “why did YHWH allow satan to seduce man all this time?” (Rom 16:25; Eph 1:9-10). The destruction of satan has been predicted since Adam’s day (Gen 3:15). “Mystery of Elohim” (10:7) is now completed when satan is cast out into the earth, and has no access to the heavens (also in Rev 12:9, 12).

        The Greek word (euallegizo) translated “declared” means “to bring good news or glad tidings”. A better translation of the statement might be: “The hidden plan (revealed only to those who have “eyes that see and ears that hear”) of (YHWH); the Good News that was communicated to the prophets is about to be brought to completion as soon as the seventh angel sounds his trumpet and during the days of the sounding of that trumpet.” The seven bowls or vials (which contain the final plagues of YHWH’s Wrath) completing His Wrath (15:1) are poured out following the sounding of the seventh trumpet – which also prompts worship in Heaven “of our Lord  and of His [Messiah]” for bringing His plan to completion (11:15-19).

        The Day of the Lord (including His Wrath) is explicitly foretold many times in the TaNaCh (Isaiah 2:12; Jer 46:10; Joel 2:1; Amos 5:18; Obad 1:15; Zeph 1:14; Zech 14:1; Mal 4:5 (one example from each of these prophets; there are many others)) and mentioned several times in the B’rit Chadashah (Acts 2:20; 1 Cor 5:5; 2 Cor 1:14; 1 Thes 5:2; 2 Peter 3:10).

YHWH’s voice. This can mean one of following:

        Theory 1: When Yochanan received the visions of the Revelation, it was sweet in his mouth (Jer 15:16; Psalm 119:103). Yochanan was very privileged to get the visions; but it became very bitter when the contents was noted to be judgments on people (Ezek 2:10). This, then, means the book is possibly the entire Book of the Revelation that was given to Yochanan in prophesying to warn the people of the end time. Note that over 600 years earlier, Ezekiel had been told by Elohim to do exactly the same as Yochanan was told to do here: eat a book (scroll) that would taste sweet before he prophesied the judgments of Elohim (Ezek 2:8–3:3). The Day of the Lord and His Wrath are sweet news to the Redeemed, but bitter to those who are perishing.

        Theory 2: It can also be the “Gospel Book of John”: when you accept the Gospel of Y’shua HaMashiach (eat it), it is sweet in your mouth (Salvation); but when persecution starts, it causes bitterness in your stomach.

Yochanan is told that he must prophesy again about the people of this world. So, the contents of the seven thunders and of the little book may well be the revealing of the plagues of the seven bowls of wrath; of “Armageddon”, of the Great White Throne Judgment, or of all three. They may also – in the same way that the sweetness and bitterness of the contents of the scroll that Ezekiel ate foretelling the destruction of Jerusalem (Ezek 2:9-3:3; 4:1-3), refer to the destruction of Jerusalem which (at the end of the Tribulation) will become (spiritually) like Sodom and Egypt (Rev 11:8, 13).

Yod letter – Numerical value 10

Meaning (yod or yud): A metaphysical and divine letter meaning hand – the right hand of Elohim. (Metaphysical:  a branch of philosophy dealing with the nature of existence and of knowledge.)

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter ‘yod’ symbolises the hand, Elohim’s creation, and the metaphysical in general.

Isn’t it significant, then, that this chapter speaks of a very special angel – which is very possibly Y’shua. What is more significant is that the ‘yod’ is a divine letter meaning hand; and in verse 2, we see that Y’shua has “in his hand a little book.” Here Y’shua is divinely linked to Yochanan to enable Yochanan to receive additional information through the book. The explanation of the meaning of the book is given above; but here is something of  interest: it could also be a Hebreastic way of looking at works – “sweet as honey” (Rev 10:10). The Hebrews bake bread in the same shape as the Hebrew letters and coat them with honey; this, then, means that ‘the letter’ (or better, ‘the Word of Elohim’) is sweet.

This 10th letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit (barely larger than a dot) cannot be divided into component parts; and this refers to Elohim who is one and indivisible or undivided. In view of the fact that the Hebrews believe ‘yod’ to symbolise Elohim’s deeper spiritual realities, it is interesting that God’s name ‘YHWH’ and the nation Yisra’el both begin with a ‘yod’. It is also the initial letter of Yaacob (who became Yisra’el) – the same is true for Yeshurun, a diminutive form of Yisra’el – and Yahudah, the tribe from which the Messiah came. Thus, the main characters in the drama of the TaNaCh all begin with the initial ‘yod’. We should also notice that the name Y’shua in Hebrew  begins with a ‘yod.’ Even the name of Elohim’s Holy City ‘Yerushalayim’ begins with this letter.

Is this mere coincidence? Not if the learned philosophers of Yisra’el are right when they speak of ‘yod’ as ‘the symbol of creation and the metaphysical.'

Revelation Chapter 11

The Sixth Trumpet Continues

Background

The two main theories concerning the timing of the releasing of the plagues are given in the diagram on the right. This chapter proves that the Third Temple will be rebuilt in the beginning of the seven-year Tribulation period if you follow the Seven Years of Tibulation Period theory.

1 And a reed like a measuring rod was given to me, and the messenger stood, saying, “Rise and measure the Dwelling Place of Elohim, and the altar, and those worshipping in it.

2 But cast out the court which is outside the Dwelling Place, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the gentiles, and they shall trample the set-apart city under foot for forty-two months.

3 And I shall give unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clad in sackcloth.”

4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands that are standing before the Elohim of the earth.

5 And if anyone wishes to harm them, fire comes out from their mouth and consumes their enemies. And if anyone wishes to harm them, he has to be killed in that way.

6 These possess authority to shut the heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy. And they possess authority over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they wish.

7 And when they have ended their witness, the beast coming up out of the pit of the deep shall fight against them, and overcome them, and kill them,

8 and their dead bodies lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sedom and Mitsrayim, where also our Master was impaled,

9 and some of the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations see their dead bodies for three and a half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be placed into tombs,

10 and those dwelling on the earth rejoice over them and exult. And they shall send gifts to each other, because these two prophets tortured those dwelling on the earth.

11 And after the three and a half days a spirit of life from Elohim entered into them, and they stood upon their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them.

12 And they heard a loud voice from the heaven saying to them, “Come up here.” And they went up into the heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them.

13 And in that hour there came to be a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. And in the earthquake seven thousand men were killed, and the rest became afraid and gave esteem to the Elohim of the heaven.

14 The second woe is past, and see, the third woe is coming speedily.

15 And the seventh messenger sounded, and there came to be loud voices in the heaven, saying, “The reign of this world has become the reign of our Master, and of His Messiah, and He shall reign forever and ever!”

16 And the twenty-four elders sitting before Elohim on their thrones fell on their faces and worshipped Elohim,

17 saying, “We give You thanks, O YHWH El Shaddai, the One who is and who was and who is coming, because You have taken Your great power and reigned.

18 And the nations were enraged, and Your wrath has come, and the time of the dead to be judged, and to give the reward to Your servants the prophets and to the set-apart ones, and to those who fear Your Name, small and great, and to destroy those who destroy the earth.”

19 And the Dwelling Place of Elohim was opened in the heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His Dwelling Place. And there came to be lightnings, and voices, and thunders, and an earthquake, and great hail.

A measuring rod was given to Yochanan; symbolizing either preservation or destruction (Zech 2:1; Ezek 40:3; 42:20). A measuring rod is 6 cubits long or 3.1m. Yochanan had to measure three things, and there are various theories concerning it:

        Theory 1: The Revelation was written about 95 C.E.. This is not the Temple which was destroyed in 70 C.E. (approximately 25 years before Yochanan received the Revelation), but is a vision (not a literal temple) illustrating how YHWH is going to deal with the Gentiles vis-à-vis YHWH’s People Israel during the last half of the Tribulation. As mentioned above – in Jewish symbolism, to measure something is to preserve it. In his vision, Yochanan is told to measure the part of the Temple where (true) Israel worships, because that numbered (measured) Remnant of Israel will be saved (not trodden down by the Gentiles).

        Theory 2: The literal, Tabernacle/Temple will be rebuilt during the first half of the seven-year Tribulation period and will be totally taken over by the false messiah when he desecrates it and sits in it proclaiming himself to be “God” at the midpoint of the Final Seven Years (Dan 9:27; Matt 24:15; 2 Thes 2:3, 4; Rev 13:4-6).) First to be measured was the Temple; the second to be measured was the limited time for animal sacrificing at the brazen altar; and the third to be measured was the limited time the Yahudim (Jews) will be able to worship in Jerusalem at the Temple. This will be the time during the first 3½ years of the seven years of Tribulation before the Antichrist declares himself God.

The “outer court” was the only area where non-Jews were permitted to enter during the times of the Temple. This area was not to be measured.

        Theory 1: Yochanan is told not to measure the court outside (not part of) the Temple, where the Gentiles had been permitted to worship in the past and where Y’shua taught (in Solomon’s porches – John 10:23); because during the Great Tribulation (42 months), the “holy city” (Jerusalem) will be given over to and totally trodden down by the Gentiles; who in the end, will be destroyed—not saved.

        Theory 2: The possibility definitely exists that the Antichrist will allow the Jews to rebuild their Temple without the courtyard north of the Dome of the Rock directly in line with the Eastern Gate on Mount Moriah. Because of the strong presence of the Muslims in this area (referring to the Dome of the Rock that takes up the space), the Temple’s “outer court” cannot be completely rebuilt. Ezek 42:20 says there will be a wall between the Holy (Temple) and the unholy (Dome of the Rock), between Abraham’s two brothers Yitzhak and Ishmael (whom he both blessed). This is possibly why the area outside the Temple building is not to be measured; this area belongs to non-Jews, the present Dome of the Rock of the Muslim world. The UN will be the Gentiles who will ensure peace between the two brothers whilst the Temple will be rebuilt, which is reference to “Jerusalem will be trodden down by the Gentiles”. The Tabernacle will be used (Rev 13:6) during the first 3½ years whilst the Temple is being rebuilt. Ezekiel prophesied that the Messiah will come through the Eastern Gate (Ezek 43:1-2). Ezekiel also prophesied that this Gate would be sealed up until the Messiah comes through it (Ezek 44:1-3). The Antichrist will have to duplicate this for the Jews to accept him. He will possibly have the Gate opened when he inaugurates the Tabernacle/Temple. Ezekiel had seen the Gate in detail (Ezek 40:6-9) and the wall around Jerusalem (Ezek 40:16) in a vision 2,500 years ago, and during his time there was not a wall around the city. The wall was only rebuilt ±500 years ago. In his vision (Ezek 41:1) he was shown the Tabernacle (tent), which points out that the Tabernacle will be used first while the Temple is being built (Rev 13:6). A wall will be built around the holy Tabernacle/Temple (250 x 250 meters) to separate it from the unholy Dome of the Rock (Ezek 42:20). This will last for 3½ years (the first half of the seven-year Tribulation period) until the Antichrist declares himself God in the Temple and demands to be worshipped. (42 months of 30 days each – do not forget that the Jewish calendar contains 12 months of 30 days each). The Jews will then flee to escape persecution, and the entire Temple plus the area around it will then be taken by the Antichrist (Rev 12:6; 13:5). It is a real possibility that the Antichrist armies (in other words, the United Nations peace keeping forces) will control the Temple Mount, during the first 3½ years.

Why two witnesses? Simply because YHWH can’t break His own Torah; and His Torah requires two witnesses (Deut 19:15, 17:6) and Y’shua confirmed this in Joh 8:17. Again we see that even in the future Tribulation period, the Torah will be upheld. (Please read the write-up on who the the two witnesses possibly are at the end of the chapter if you accept that they are literal.) There is also a strong possibility that Dan 12:5-10 also refers to the two witnesses. There are various theories concerning the timing of the two witnesses.

        Theory 1: The two witnesses are not literal persons, they represent the two Assemblies (Smyrna and Philadelphia) as portrayed in the two lampstands (Zech 4:1-14) as well as in the two olive trees, the House of Judah and the House of Israel (Romans 11). These bodies will be witnesses during the Great Tribulation period.

        Theory 2: Two literal witnesses (persons) will appear at the beginning of the Great Tribulation period. They will perform their work during the 3½ period till Messiah’s return. Some have postulated that the two witnesses appear during the first half of the Final Seven Years. But, because it states here that they ascend just before the catastrophe that ends the second woe (sixth trumpet judgment – verse 15), it is clear that their time on Earth spans the Great Tribulation.

        Theory 3: If we take the Bible literally, it says that Elijah must return before “the day of the Lord comes” (Mal 4:5). The “Day of the Lord” is the Tribulation period (Rev 1:10) and the return of Y’shua. The Orthodox Jews are currently waiting for Elijah to return to prepare the way for the Messiah. Every Passover, they set a place at their seder meal in anticipation of the prophet’s return, leaving a door or window slightly ajar in the hopes that this will be the year of Elijah’s entrance to usher in the Messianic kingdom. They recently started to fill Elijah’s Pesach cup, which was left empty all these years. Based on this, Elijah then must first return in person; or else the Orthodox Jews will not accept the Antichrist as the Messiah (and we know that they will accept the Antichrist because the Y’shua says so in John 5:39-43). It is then accepted that the two witnesses will first make their debut, then the Antichrist will come on the scene, and only then will he be accepted as the Messiah and allow the Temple to be rebuilt. Due to this theory, they will perform their duties in the first half of the Tribulation period.

        The will do their work for “one thousand two hundred and sixty days” which is 42 Hebrew months of 30 days each (or 3½ years), empowered by Elohim to prophesy (verse 6).

        Sackcloth was used in the TaNaCh to indicate that a person was in mourning. The two witnesses mourn for the people that go       through the Tribulation period.

        They are the “two olive trees and the two lampstands”. An Olive tree exudes oil. Oil is a symbol of the Ruach HaKodesh (Exod 29:7 - see also Lev 8, Psalm 23:5, 133:2, Mark 6:13; Jam 5:14), and lamps refer to the Torah (Prov 6:23, Psalm 119:105, Isaiah 8:20, 51:4). Thus we have two chosen witnesses, anointed by the power of the Ruach, proclaiming the Torah message of light in a sin-blackened world.

Another hidden Menorah is the two witnesses in a dark world. They form the centre lamp (Chapter 11) of the next seven chapters (chapters 8 to 14).

YHWH gave Elijah the same power in the TaNaCh (2 Kings 1:10-14).

These witnesses will have the same or more power when they       reappear.

        Elijah also stopped the rain for three years; it will happen again (1 Kings 17:1).

        YHWH gave Moshe all these powers in Egypt, if Moshe is one of the witnesses he will be able to do it again (Exod 7:14 to Exod 12:30; Num 16:29-50).

When they “ended their witness”, meaning after 3½ years:

        Theory 1: If the two witnesses represent the House of Judah and the House of Israel and are not two literal persons, then it means the entire two Houses will be killed.

        Theory 2: At the end of the Tribulation period, if they are physical beings, they will be raptured with the 144,000 Israelites (who include the Bride) into Heaven; or if they represent the Houses of Judah and Israel, they will be raptured as a whole “nation”.

        Theory 3: At the mid-point when the Antichrist declares himself God in the Temple and demands worship, they will accomplish all their ministry during the messiahship (false peace period – first 3½ years) and not the dictatorship control of the Antichrist and raptured at the mid-point before the Great Tribulation starts. The 144,000 Israelites, therefore, are now sealed to do their work during the last 3½ years. Jerusalem will then be the very seat of the Antichrist as verse 8 states: “great city… where also our Master was impaled”.

        The “beast coming up out of the pit of the deep” is not the Antichrist person (explained in Rev 17:8.) It is a satanic angel who assists the Antichrist to carry out satan’s designs. This is a fallen angel that gave Alexander the Great his enormous power to rule the Grecian Empire – when the Grecian Empire fell, this satanic prince was confined to the Abyss until he will be loosed to help the Antichrist to attempt to take over the world. (Will discuss various empires in chapters 12 and 17). This is an invisible satanic prince, and the Antichrist will have no idea what gives him this power.

        “Mache” is Greek for war and means “a singular attack”; the Greek word used here is “polomos” (shall fight against them) meaning “a series of attacks”. In other words, the Antichrist       will try several times to conquer them. The Antichrist, who undoubtedly had been extremely annoyed, even tormented (as he is not sealed as well), by the testimony and power of the two witnesses, is finally enabled to kill them at the end of the seven years. The satanic prince will aid the Antichrist to kill them. Remember, satan will also be cast out of the Heavens at the beginning of the Great Tribulation period (Rev 12:8-9), incarnate the body of the Antichrist, which causes him to change from a global peacemaker to a brutal dictator (if you accept he will be a person and not a system). They will be killed at the time when the Antichrist declares himself God in the Temple and demands to be worshipped.

        When the Antichrist takes over Jerusalem, it will become the headquarters of sex and religious perversion. Jerusalem is called “Sedom and Egypt” because of becoming the headquarters of sodomites ( Isaiah 1:9-10; Ezek 16:46, 53) and whoredoms (sex, especially amongst children and religious perversions, Ezek 23:3, 8, 19, 27). This indicates that sex and religious perversions will be predominant sins ending this age (Matt 24:37-39; Luke 17:26-30).

Television cameras (undoubtedly from all over the world) will be focussed on them and broadcast it all over the planet that the Antichrist has succeeded to kill them (Psalm 79:2-3). It is a Jewish custom to be buried within 24 hours after death. This is strong evidence that they likely will be two physical beings.

        The Antichrist will not allow their bodies to be buried, because of the enormous plagues and suffering that they caused. He wants to make an example of them. The possibility exists that the witnesses will challenge the Antichrist to kill them after they tell him that they would rise again after 3½ days according to prophecy, which might also be a reason why they will not be buried. (SPECIAL NOTE: His conduct is identical to that of the deceased Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran, who had the bodies of America's servicemen displayed in the streets of Tehran after the 1980 hostage attempt. His action was one of the most repulsive sights ever witnessed).

The unredeemed people of the world allow/insist that the bodies of the two witnesses lie in the streets of Jerusalem for three and a half days, where they can view them and celebrate their death and the murderous power of Antichrist over them. Again, strong evidence that they are two physical people as they are called “two prophets”.

        But, their revelry is short lived; after the three and a half days, the two witnesses are resurrected, filling those who had been celebrating their death with fear. Then, with the same words that Yochanan had been summoned to Heaven (4:1), the Two Witnesses are told, “Come up here” and ascend into Heaven. People all over the world, glued to their televisions, will see them rise.

A tremendous earthquake will take place. If they are raptured in the middle of the seven-year Tribulation period, the possibility exists that it can be the same earthquake as in Rev 6:12 (the sixth seal). If it is at the end of the Great Tribulation, it could be the one in Rev 16:18.

        A tenth part of Jerusalem will be destroyed. 7,000 people will die in this one earthquake; the prophetic fulfilment of 1 Kings 19:18? The same amount was reserved in Elijah’s former days (Rom 11:4).

        Only now will the wicked (that survived the earthquake) be so frightened that they will give “glory to the God of heaven”. In the end, even the enemies of YHWH, in fear, will be compelled to give Him glory (Rom 14:11).

This appears to be the final event of the sixth trumpet judgment (the second woe).

When the seventh Trumpet sounded, Yochanan saw this vision, which will play out in heaven at the end of the Tribulation period.

When the 24 elders heard that Elohim would take over the kingdoms of this world and reign over them, they fell on their faces to worship Him.

Thanking El Shaddai (God Almighty) that the long battle had ended, and that Y’shua HaMashiach will descend to earth, which will be the Second Advent “to rule the nations with a rod of iron” (Rev 2:27). (“Art to come” is left out in some Bibles – please check your Bible. It is one of the most important messages in the Revelation.)

        Speaking firstly of the nations that are angry (they are preparing for war, the Battle of Armageddon); and secondly, of two wraths of Elohim that are coming. The first wrath is the destruction of “Babylon city” (Rev 18) which goes hand in hand with “Mystery Babylon” of Rev 17 and the battle of Armageddon (Rev 14:17-20; 16:16-19; 18:1-24; 19:1-21). The second wrath is “the time of the dead, that they should be judged” - Jumping 1,000 years into the future – speaking of the Great White Throne judgment (Rev 20:11-15; Dan 7:10).

        To reward those who did not accept the mark during the Tribulation period; or it can refer to the “time after” the Great       White Throne judgment (of the wicked); where the Believers, the Prophets and all those that feared His name will inherit the New Heaven, New Earth & New Jerusalem. (Rev 21.)

        Elohim is also going to destroy each person that destroys (harms/damages) His creation. Elohim will hold people accountable for their stewardship of the earth (Gen 1:26).

The Temple on the earth – including the Ark of His Covenant, which was the location of YHWH’s presence with His People Israel (Lev 16:2) – is understood to be a model of the Temple in Heaven. Moshe’s Ark of the Covenant is a representation of Elohim’s Throne, as explained in chapters 4 and 5. Now, nobody knows where Moshe’s Ark of the Covenant is… is it below the Temple Mount, or in Jeremiah’s grotto, or in Ethiopia, or is it this one in the Temple in Heaven, possibly as the Throne was never an Ark? And do we need Moshe’s Ark in the Temple to come as YHWH’s shekinah was in Herod’s Temple in Y’shua’s days and there was no Ark? Further, Jer 3:16 clearly says that in the last days, the Israelites won’t think about the Ark anymore; it is only the Christians that continuously search for the Ark – you decide…

        YHWH remembered His covenant to have mercy on His people on the earth, and the price that Y’shua paid (Heb 9:23-26) when He saw the Mercy seat between the Cherubim.

        An awesome amount of power is released every time Elohim or the Temple area in Heaven (where He dwells) is seen – the same as Rev 4:5 and Rev 8:5.

        As said earlier, this plays out at the end of the Tribulation period, at the same time as the destruction of Babylon city. This is then possibly the same earthquake that destroys Jerusalem in Rev 16:18, when Elohim pours out His wrath on Babylon when great hail will fall (it happened in Egypt it will happen again); but this time it will be worse. At the last earthquake and when Babylon is destroyed, in the very last bowl judgment in Rev 16:17-21, we also see great hail stones.

These Trumpet judgments are threatening forerunners to the final execution of the judgments of Elohim—the bowls of wrath!

The Two Witnesses

Who are the two witnesses? There are many theories; let’s look at the main ones:

Theory 1: They are two men – not covenants or dispensations. They are Elohim’s witnesses, because He said “My two witnesses”. They are sent by Elohim to warn and prepare the House of Judah and the House of Israel/Nations. It could be any two known or unknown men, but YHWH tells us through the prophet Mal 4:5 that He will send us Elijah “before the Coming of the great and dreadful Day of the Lord” (the Tribulation period). In this context, it is not clear if Elijah’s spirit (as in the days of Yochanan the Immerser – Matt 11:7-14) or the person himself will return. Jewish Eschatology is based on pattern, meaning an incident will repeat itself; and based on that, there must be somebody that comes in the name of Elijah before the Orthodox Jews will accept the Antichrist as Messiah, based on John 5:43.

The two witnesses are symbolized in the TaNaCh by two olive trees and two lampstands standing before Elohim (Zech 4:11-14).

They will have power to destroy their enemies the same way their enemies sought to destroy them. When their ministry is finished, the Antichrist will be allowed to kill them. There are three men who never died a natural death, of which the possibility exists that the two witnesses can be from them. Scripture informs us that Elijah is a possible witness. Now who are the other two who have never died a natural death?

Enoch is the only other man in Scripture who has not seen death in his time on earth, and is now in Heaven (Gen 5:24; Heb 11:5). Both Elijah and Enoch were prophets of judgment. Enoch also prophesied the Coming day of Elohim's judgment and the return of Y’shua with His Bride (Jude 14-15). The lives of Enoch and Elijah are parallel in every sense, and many scholars accept that they will be the two witnesses. On the other hand, YHWH buried Moshe Himself, and nobody knows where the grave is till today (Deut 34:6). Moshe and Elijah appeared with glorified bodies and talked to Y’shua on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt 17:3). In Jude 9, Michael the archangel was in a dispute with satan about the body of Moshe. Satan challenged Michael’s right to bury Moshe, since Moshe had murdered an Egyptian (Exod 2:11-15). Deut 34:5-6 indicates that Moshe’s burial was divinely arranged. Another interesting factor is that the prophet Malachi mentions both Elijah and Moshe in his passage about the Messiah, and many scholars conclude that Moshe is the second of the two witnesses. There are also similarities between the future plagues that they bring and the judgments against Egypt. Moshe also represents the “Torah” (the first five books of the TaNaCh); and Elijah represents the “Prophets” (Exod 7-11; 1 Kings 17:1, 7; Luke 9:54). Is this why they appeared together with Y’shua, to affirm Y’shua’s claim as YHWH’s Messiah? And Y’shua had told His Disciples that Moshe (through whom the Law – which testifies of Y’shua – was given) and the prophets (of whom Elijah was the primary representative) testified of Him (Luke 24:44; John 1:45). He also hinted that Elijah would be coming again after the Transfiguration (Mark 9:12). So, the fact that the central focus of Revelation is the second coming of the Messiah, would seem to lend support to the interpretation that the two witnesses (undoubtedly testifying in the streets of Jerusalem that Y’shua – not the Antichrist – is the true Messiah) are Moshe and Elijah, His primary two witnesses throughout the Bible.

Children in Israel today sing a song about the return of Moshe and Elijah. It is appropriate that these two great leaders should appear together again to witness to humanity at the end of this age. Many scholars feel Deut 18:15, 18-19 is directly linked to Moshe and accept that he and Elijah will be the two witnesses. Or, if they are two unknown men, they will be types of Moshe and Elijah – working in the Spirit and power of Moshe and Elijah (just as did Yochanan the Immerser—another type of Elijah who testified that Y’shua was the Messiah at His first coming (Matt 17:12, 13; Mark 9:12; Luke 1:13-17)).

Theory 2: The witnesses are identified as olive trees and lampstands. The olive tree is a symbol of Israel (Jer 11:16; Rom 11:17) and the lampstand is a symbol of the presence and light of the Lord (Matt 5:15; Rev 2:5) in Scripture. So, a common-sense interpretation is that the two witnesses are Israelites the combination of the Two Houses of Israel (Judah and Israel), prophesying the truth (light) of YHWH. Physically, through the Tribulation; and Prophetically, in the full restoration of the Twelve Tribes – according to Acts 3:21. Some have speculated that they are Israel and the Church; but common-sense and literal interpretation argue to the contrary, because they are both represented by olive trees and lampstands and they wear sackcloth. The Church is not represented by the olive tree and has never worn sackcloth. The emblem of Israel, however, is represented by olive branches with a Menorah lampstand in the middle.

Kaf letter – Numerical value 20

Meaning (kaf or khaf): Crowning accomplishment.

Embedded in the Chapter: The focus of this Hebrew letter is the ‘crowning work’; and that is exactly what we see that Messiah fulfills in this chapter. From Rev 11:15 through to verse 17, we see Y’shua Messiah take ownership of the kingdoms of the world for ever and ever – this is the crowning of our King! This is speaking of what will happen at the Battle of Armageddon at the end of the Tribulation Period.

Revelation Chapter 12

The Heavens Declare Israel’s Future

Background

Chapters 12-14 are parenthetical chapters inserted between the sounding of the seventh trumpet (Rev 11:15) and the description of the bowls of wrath events (Chapters 15-16) to fill in more details of what happens during the Great Tribulation.

Chapter 12:1-6 gives us the history of Israel's persecution, an age-long conflict from beginning to end. It also focuses on the time when Jacob's name was changed to Israel (Gen 32:28), through the time period of his 12 sons (the 12 Tribes of Israel - Gen 35:23-26) until the end of the Tribulation period. It also includes very briefly the birth and the Millennial reign of Y’shua (the Olam Haba). From verse 7-17, detail is given on the Great Tribulation period (3½ years), the time when the worst anti-Semitism will take place in history, and the reason for it. It is truly what Jeremiah had in mind in chapter 30:7 – speaking of Jacob's trouble, which is Israel (Rom 11:26). Note: The whole 70 weeks of Dan 9:24-27 is about Israel and Jerusalem. The church is not mentioned once in connection with these last days’ events; so also Revelation 12 and the entire Book of the Revelation. If the Gentile Nations do come into the commonwealth of Israel by the Covenant, then they are part of the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel (Matt 15:24).

It is interesting to note in Daniel 12, Elohim instructs Daniel that end time events must be sealed; and in Revelation 12, the Antichrist (and/or system) is revealed. This chapter also includes a "great wonder/sign", a "great red dragon", a "great wrath" and two "wings of a great eagle". The events manifest a pattern of conflict between satan and Israel, culminating during the Great Tribulation.

Lastly, in chapter 12, we are introduced to the second of the four different ‘women’ discussed in the Revelation. First, Jezebel, the high priestess of paganism (2:20); the second, Israel, in the text before us; the third, the scarlet woman, the high priestess of apostasy (chapter 17); and the fourth, the Lamb's Wife, the representative of the true, blood-redeemed Bride in the New Jerusalem (21:9-10).

1 And a great sign was seen in the heaven: a woman clad with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.

2 And being pregnant, she cried out in labour and in pain to give birth.

3 And another sign was seen in the heaven: and see, a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns on his heads.

4 And his tail draws a third of the stars of the heaven and throws them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, to devour her child as soon as it was born.

5 And she bore a male child who was to shepherd all nations with a rod of iron. And her child was caught away to Elohim and to His throne.

6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by Elohim, to be nourished there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.

7 And there came to be fighting in the heaven: Mika’el and his messengers fought against the dragon. And the dragon and his messengers fought,

8 but they were not strong enough, nor was a place found for them in the heaven any longer.

9 And the great dragon was thrown out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who leads all the world astray. He was thrown to the earth, and his messengers were thrown out with him.

10 And I heard a loud voice saying in the heaven, “Now have come the deliverance and the power and the reign of our Elohim,  and the authority of His Messiah, for the accuser of our brothers, who accused them before our Elohim day and night, has been thrown down.

11 And they overcame him because of the Blood of the Lamb, and because of the Word of their witness, and they did not love their lives to the death.

12 Because of this rejoice, O heavens, and you who dwell in them! Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has little time.”

13 And when the dragon saw that he had been thrown to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child.

14 And the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, to fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent.

15 And out of his mouth the serpent spewed water like a river after the woman, to cause her to be swept away by the river.

16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the river which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.

17 And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to fight with the remnant of her seed, those guarding the commands of Elohim and possessing the witness of Y’shua Messiah.

This woman is a picture of Israel as a nation. Other examples of Israel as a woman are Isa 54:1-6; Jer 3:1-14 and Hos 2:14-23.

        The term “wonder” comes from the same Greek word as “sign”, and many translations have the word “wonder” instead of sign. In other words, it is a “sign of Israel”. The sign here is symbolic; meaning it is not an actual person, object, or event. Its appearance in Heaven rather than on the earth indicates that it transcends time and space.

        Israel is identified as the woman by the wars against her and her seed. The same predictions of this woman are found in connection with Israel in the TaNaCh, so they must be the same (Dan 7:21, 8:9-14, 24-25, 9:27, 11:40-45, 12:1,7; Joel 3; Zech 12:1-9, 13:8-9, 14:1-21).

        Scripture is its own best interpreter; and other Scriptures tell us very clearly what or who the sun, moon, and stars represent. In Yoseph’s dream (Gen 37:9) (which was very similar to the vision here in verse 1), he dreamed that the sun (Yaacob), the moon (Rachel) and eleven stars (Yoseph’s brothers) were bowing down to him (a typology of Y’shua) – the twelfth star. So, the sun, moon, and stars represent the family of Israel in Yoseph’s vision. Why could they not represent the same in Yochanan’s vision here in verse 1? The 12 stars, therefore, are the 12 Tribes of Israel (Gen 35:23-26).

        The early Messianic Assembly of Believers (including the Apostles) was comprised of Jewish Believers. They would have immediately understood the symbolism here in chapter 12. Thus, the Remnant of Israel (including the grafted in Gentiles out of the Nations, who have truly believed in the coming Messiah throughout history – the ones to whom Sha’ul refers as “true Israel” (Rom 9:6)) is symbolized in Yochanan’s vision here as the woman.

        Before reading any futher, please read the section, “Signs in the Sun, Moon and Stars to repeat themselves” at the end of this chapter. It is imperative to understand it!

The birth of this woman’s Son is predicted by the Prophets. Y’shua came out of Israel, and was born out of the Tribe of Judah (Rom 9:4-5).

        The historical event fulfilled: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Who else could this Child of Israel be other than YHWH the Son, the Messiah?

        The prophetic picture for the future: In an extended sense, His birth refers to His second coming as Head of the Kingdom of YHWH on Earth, because the Great Tribulation is prophesied to be a time of great travail and pain – referred to as “the time that she [Israel] who is in labor has given birth; then the remnant of His [the Messiah’s] brethren shall return to the children of Israel.” From now on to the end, the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel will experience an awaking that is beyond human explanation. The entire Torah must be made known to the world, and the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel will hear the Shepherd’s voice to follow the one true faith – Torah-observant Messianism. This is prophesied in Acts 3:21 (LITV), and it must come into fulfillment: “For he must remain in heaven until the time for the final restoration of all things, as YHWH promised long ago through his holy prophets”. One of these Prophets referred to is Jeremiah: 31:31-36: “See, the days are coming,” declares YHWH, “when I shall make a new covenant with the house of Yisra’el and with the house of Yehudah, not like the covenant I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Mitsrayim, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them,” declares YHWH. “For this is the covenant I shall make with the house of Yisra’el after those days, declares YHWH: I shall put My Torah in their inward parts, and write it on their hearts. And I shall be their Elohim, and they shall be My people. And no longer shall they teach, each one his neighbour, and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know YHWH,’ for they shall all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them,” declares YHWH. “For I shall forgive their crookedness, and remember their sin no more.” Thus said YHWH, who gives the sun for a light by day, and the laws of the moon and the stars for a light by night, who stirs up the sea, and its waves roar – YHWH of hosts is His Name: “If these laws vanish from before Me,” declares YHWH, “then the seed of Yisra’el shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever.”

        During the Great Tribulation, a remnant of the tribes of Israel scattered throughout the world will return to the Land of Israel and be reunited with the Yahudim (Jews) who are already there. Then, the Messiah will return to rule them from David’s throne in Jerusalem during His Millennial Kingdom on Earth (Micah 5:2-3; Isaiah 9:7).

        Special note: Satan knew from the beginning that “the Seed” would come out of Israel and eventually “bruise his head” one day (Gen 3:14-15). Because of this, satan hates the 12 Tribes and tries to destroy “her” all the time. First it was to prevent “the Child” (Y’shua) from being born; and now to prevent Y’shua from returning to escape his pending judgment. That is the reason why Israel went through all the persecutions and pain throughout the centuries.

The red dragon is conclusively proven to be satan (verse 9; 17:3; 20:2). There are various theories concerning this verse; the two main ones are listed here concerning the “seven heads”:

        Theory 1: The 7 heads may represent the 7 kingdoms satan used to try to destroy Israel from the beginning and to wipe her off the face of the earth (see details of empires at the end of chapter 17).

        Theory 2: Alternatively, it can be the Club of Rome and Tri-lateral Commission (read write-up at the end of this chapter before we continue).

Two main ones are listed concerning the “ten horns”:

        Theory 1: The 10 horns represent 10 countries that will rise up in the last days out of the old Roman Empire’s geographical area, and will cover the same ground area as the old Roman Empire. Dan 7:7, 20, 24, 2:41 (see details of 8 mountain kingdoms in chapter 17). This last empire is called the Revised/Revived Roman Empire, or better known as the Europe Union (EU) of today and the forming of it is as follows: starting with Benelux in 1948 - Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg came together. Four more joined in 1957 with the Treaty of Rome, Germany, France and Italy. In 1973 England, Ireland and Denmark followed. 1981 Greece joined. 1986 Spain and Portugal joined. Some countries then still fell under communist control (East Germany, Poland etc.), and the Revised Roman Empire prophecy could not come into fulfilment. Then inexplicably it started to come into fulfilment in 1989 when the Berlin Wall came down and Communist Russia released these countries without a single shot being fired (a miracle in itself). Then in 1993, 10 countries came together for the first time in history since the old Roman Empire and formed the EU to fulfil Bible prophecy. Then in 1995 Austria, Finland, and Sweden joined – and since then, more than double joined to make the geographical area the same as the old Roman Empire (see details on the EU at the end of chapter 12 for more details).

        Theory 2: It could also be the Club of Rome’s 10 regions.

        Daniel prophesied that the Antichrist will destroy three kings; and the rest of the 10 that are left will give their power to him (Dan 7:8, 23-24).

        Now remember, Satan first tried to destroy the Child (Y’shua) and failed at the crucifixion stake; he is now about to strike the woman (Israel) herself via the greatest anti-Semitic purge in history with this last empire (Matt 24:21-22, Rom 11:28). If he can annihilate Israel, then YHWH’s Covenant with Israel will be nullified and Y’shua won’t have a Bride. This is satan’s strategy!

        Also take note that the 7 crowns are placed on the 7 heads, which indicates that power and authority was/will be given to 7 kings to rule these empires and to persecute Israel. Six are history and the last one is at hand!

“His tail" refers to the dragon’s tail (which is satan's) and there are again two theories:

        Theory 1: The stars refer to a third of the angels that were “drawn” out of the third heaven with lucifer/satan so many aeons ago. Satan influenced a third of the angels to follow him, and he “drew” them out of the third heaven. If we study the context, it was written in carefully – we would see that it plays off before the period when Y’shua was born (verse 5), which  makes the first theory a plausible one as satan wanted to destroy the pregnant “woman” (Israel). Satan wanted to prevent “the Child”, Y’shua, from being born. Satan knew that Y’shua would come one day to destroy him. Note: satan through Herod attempted to kill Y’shua soon after He was born (Matt 2:8; 16-18); and also attempted to kill Him at various times during His ministry on Earth and as mentioned at His crucifixion. (He will attempt to kill Him again at “Armageddon” and finally at the end of the Millennium.) When satan thought he had eventually killed Y’shua and had victory, that was his biggest mistake; and he fell into Elohim's trap as Y’shua purposely died for the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel by laying His own life down. When Y’shua descended to the underworld, He stripped satan of his power. Y’shua took the keys of death and Hades so that no wicked soul/spirit could be released until Elohim allows it (Rev 1:18). In other words, Israel (through Miriam, a descendant of David (Matt 1:1-16)) bore the Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron (Gen 3:15; Psalm 2:9; Rev 19:15), and He escaped being destroyed by satan when He ascended into Heaven during Acts 1:11.

        Theory 2: If you refer to the “man child” as the 144,000 Israelites that are sealed for their work in the Great Tribulation, then you can accept this verse as taking place at the beginning of the Great Tribulation, when satan and his angels are finally thrown out of the first and second Heaven.

Many scholars conclude that the “man Child” is either Y’shua, who was born out of Israel ±2,000 years ago, or the Twelve Tribes as per theories above.

        “To rule the world with a rod of iron” here means firmly, not tyrannically (the 144,000 will not “rule the nations with a rod of iron”; secondly, there is no Scripture to prove that the 144,000 have thrones to sit upon. Lastly, when the Bible speaks of the “man child”, it does so in the singular form – referring to one person).

        After Y’shua died, He was raised from the dead by YHWH and ascended to the third Heaven. It is the same “caught up/away”, (Greek: harpazo) as used in 1 Thes 4:17 with the rapture.

        Y’shua went to His throne ±2,000 years ago (John 14:2-3; Acts 1:9-11).

        Note: Some attempt to mistranslate and over-allegorize “Child” into “Children” (referring to “Israel” or the “Church”); but a good principle to follow in interpreting Scripture is that symbolism does not violate common sense or correct grammar.

This is speaking of Israel that will flee to Petra and to other mountains in western Jordan(see 14). When satan failed to destroy the Son of YHWH, he went after His mother Israel who fled into the “wilderness” to rural, sparsely inhabited areas.

        This will happen at the start of the Great Tribulation period. This strengthens the possibility of the second theory in Rev 6 that the second Seal will be opened at the start of the Great Tribulation period when war breaks out (Rev 6:3-4).

        Elohim also promised in Jer 30:7, Dan 12:1 and Matt 24:22 that He will shorten the days  for the elect (assist them), which are the Twelve Tribes. This is when you believe the 12 Tribes will go through the Tribulation Period; or for the Pre-Trib rapture theorist, then this refers to the “lukewarm” Tribbers left behind.

        But she will escape and be “nourished” for 1260 days. Who the “they” are is not clear – perhaps the Jordanian Arabs whom the Bible indicates will aid Israel after she flees into the wilderness (Isaiah 15:4). Although this imagery may have multiple references – including YHWH’s taking care of Israel in the Sinai wilderness after her exodus from Egypt, and His taking care of her in the “wilderness” of the world today before the Remnant returns to Israel – it will have a literal fulfillment during the Great Tribulation, as well.

        This period will last for 1,260 days (or 42 months), which is also 3½ years.

War breaks out in the spiritual world, There are two main theories:

        Theory 1: This war starts at the beginning of the seven years of Tribulation immediately after the rapture (Rev 4:1) and is completed at the mid point, which activates the Great Tribulation period when satan is thrown out of Heaven and incarnates the body of the Antichrist. Since a war involves a number of battles, this is possible. The assumption is based on Dan 12:1-2, since the Bride must pass through the aerial and stellar heavens (the area where satan reigns (Eph 2:2, 6:11-18)), this must happen before the Tribulation period starts.

        Theory 2: This war starts at the Great Tribulation period and is over in a day or two as there must be 1260 days left to the end of the Tribulation according to verse 6.

        Mika’el, the great archangel, is the commander-in-chief of Heaven's armies. Mika’el is mentioned five times in the Bible, here in verse 7; Dan 10:13,21, 12:1 and Jude 9. Notice every time Mika’el appears, he is connected with Israel. It is very possible that he is the guardian angel of the Jewish people, Elohim’s elect.

The “great dragon” is satan (as said earlier). This is the settlement between satan and YHWH over the possession of the heavenlies where satan used to reign (Eph 2:2, 6:12). Satan still had access to Elohim in the third heaven to accuse the brethren until this point. Proof? Verse 10. Satan was first cast out of the third heaven, and is now cast out of the first and second heavens – never allowed back again.

        Satan is the deceiver of the world – “leads all the world astray”.

        This is also when the mystery of verse 7 is fulfilled, when his evil work (verse 12) is stopped. The great mystery of why Elohim has allowed the devil to continue operating against Him so long without definite action to stop him is finally answered. Delay in fulfilling this mystery is no longer.

        Four-fold announcement to all concerned!

1. Deliverance / Salvation.

2. Power / Strength.

3. Reign / The kingdom of Elohim.

4. The Authority of Y’shua.

YHWH and Y’shua have demonstrated their power over satan and all the Antichrist’s rebels, as they predicted they would in the plan of Elohim:

        To the Believers on the Earth: the accuser is cast down and all courts of Heaven are closed to satan. The prosecutor of the Believers is cast out of Heaven once and forever, and Believers will no longer be accused by him (verse 10).

        To the inhabitants of Heavens: rejoice, for satan has no access to Heaven any longer (verse 12).

        To the wicked inhabitants of Earth: woe, for the devil is come down among you, having great wrath, because he knows that he has but 1,260 days left before being confined to the abyss (Rev 20:1-3).

        This third of the three woes announced by the angel in Rev 8:13, 9:12, and 11:14 is so much more terrible than the ‘torment of men for five months’ (9:1-12) and the slaying of 1/3  of men (9:13-21); so much so that a special announcement is made of it here in verse 12. But woe to the Believers because the devil, full of desperate wrath, knows that his time is short and will be a total tyrant in attempting to establish his dominion on the Earth. Satan (at this point) will be furious and knows that he will soon be locked up for 1,000 years and then eventually be thrown into Gehenna. He will by now attempt to drag as many souls as possible with him to eternal Hell.

        At this point, when satan is thrown out of the Heavens, he will enter the body of the false messiah and invest all his power in this one man – who now becomes the Antichrist (or system if you do not believe he is a person). This is the reason why the Antichrist’s attitude changes dramatically at the mid-point of the Tribulation period and demands to be worshipped (for the Pre-Trib theorists). The heavens are now cleaned of satan and all of his fallen angels and demons; and at this point, routed to the earth. Now you can understand why it is called the Great Tribulation period, because all “Hell” will break loose on earth with nothing to restrain satan’s power.

        Note: Satan has and will accuse us day and night up to the start of the Great Tribulation period – now think of it. As we are reading this, satan is either in heaven accusing us, or is on his way there to accuse us. Furthermore, every bit of slander against another brother or sister in Messiah is simply the devil using an individual's mind and vocal chords; in fact, devil means “slanderer”. The term “false accuser” is translated from the word “diabolos” or “devil” – now read Titus 2:3 and replace “slanderer” or “false accusers” with devil. No wonder lying is one of the seven sins that YHWH hates (Prov 6:16-19).

        “They overcame him”: speaking of those who accepted Y’shua as Messiah and are part of the commonwealth of Israel through the Torah Covenant. These Believers overcame satan by accepting Y’shua's shed blood at the crucifixion stake and by testifying of the reason He died so they can become part of the Bride, and were prepared to die for it. There is no other way to win a spiritual battle except by the blood of Y’shua and the Word of YHWH (Heb 4:12).

        “Woe to the earth and the sea”: great distress to the people on the earth. This warning is left out of some Bibles, especially       the new translations. The “earth” and “sea” represent two groups of people (as we will discuss in chapter 13). This is when satan releases his fury.

“He persecuted the woman”: there will be horror on earth such as the world has never seen – the greatest anti-Semitic purge will now begin against the House of Yahudim, the House of Yisr’el and whoever sides with them. They will be totally isolated from the world!!!

        Let’s ask the question again: “Why will satan focus on the Israelites?” Because if satan can destroy them, Elohim’s covenant with them (to remarry them) will be non-existent and the Messiah will then not return. Satan will then escape his punishment; he knows he is going to be locked up for a 1,000 years and then after that, will be thrown into the Lake of Fire. Therfore he has just 3½ years to annihilate every Israelite before his reign will be ended (20:1-3). Satan now turns his anger to Israel out of which the Messiah came, and he hates her for it.

Immediately YHWH intervenes. The fact that there are “two” wings of a “great” eagle, typifying great speed and/or can also mean as in the Wilderness days; i.e., protection and nourishment (Exod 19:4), perhaps one for each House? It can also mean a speedy airlift escape.

        Dan 11:41 says that the Israelites will flee to Ammon (North-western part of Jordan), Moab (Western Jordan next to the dead sea) and Edom (South-western Jordan where Petra is) for protection. For more details, see “The persecution, flight and protection of Israel in the wilderness” at the end of chapter 12. They will be protected for 3½ years (time = 1, times = 2 and half a time = ½ thus 1 + 2 + ½ = 3½) from the power of satan which he invested in the Antichrist (system).

This can mean one of the following things:

        Theory 1: Water / sea represent people in the Revelation. This means that the Antichrist (system) could give a command to his armies to attack Israel.

        Theory 2: It could mean a volume of propaganda – anti-Semitic insinuations, released internationally to hate Israel and its people.

But Elohim will counter-attack (Isaiah 59:19-20). He will miraculously assist the Israelites as in the days when YHWH opened the earth to swallow the rebels (Num 16:30-33). As Pharaoh’s army pursued the children of Israel into the Sinai wilderness, the army of Antichrist will, like a flood, pursue the Israelites into the “Jordan wilderness” east of Jerusalem.

        This “river/flood” which pursues the Israelites will, in the same way that the sea swallowed up Pharaoh’s army when the children of Israel fled from Egypt (Exod 15:2), be swallowed up by the earth (apparently in a crevice created by an earthquake specifically designed by YHWH for that purpose).

Enraged/wroth is “orgizo” in Greek and means, “furious and raging with a desire to revenge”. The same word is also used in Eph 4:26 and Matt 5:22.

“The remnant of her seed”: speaking of the Israelites (and Gentiles who came into Covenant) who declared Y’shua as Messiah and keep the Torah. This is the only group that satan will hate, the Y’shua followers who are Torah-observant!

        “The remnant of her seed” can refer either to all Jewish people globally who were born from the woman Israel, or they are those that stayed behind in Israel who did not flee to the wilderness. This is satan’s last attempt to destroy YHWH’s physical people Israel before their Messiah takes back His throne on Earth. This is also the build up for the Battle of Armageddon when tidings from the East and North shall trouble Him (Dan 11:44, which is possibly Ezekiel 38 and 39; as they both indicate the same world areas – more about this later in chapter 19).

“Messiah” is left out in some Bibles – please check your Bible.

Signs in the Sun, Moon and Stars to repeat themselves

Jewish tradition preserved by Josephus, suggests that Bible astronomy was invented by Adam, Seth and Enoch. For nearly 2,500 years, the revelation of Yah's redemptive plan for mankind was written in the naming of the stars and their grouping in the 12 signs of the Zodiac; each one having 4 other deacons (constellations) associated with it, for a total of 48 constellations. The heavens, therefore, preserved the truth until the written Scriptures could be given to Moses.

How to read the stars:

There is a difference between astronomy and astrology. Astronomy (which is good) is the study of Elohim's creation in the stars and “declares the glory of YHWH”. Astrology (horoscopes and fortune-telling from your "sign" which is forbidden in the Scriptures) is the perversion of the true study of the stars.

Many of the narratives in the Scripture were in the stars. The stories were passed down from one generation to another and related to the various constellations. In fact, the entire plan of redemption is encoded in the stars and constellations, called “Mazarot” in Hebrew.

The Israelites understood the principle of “Mazarot”: that whenever YHWH moves in a major way, He would give a “sign” in the Heavens. This is why they asked Y’shua to show them a sign to prove He was the Messiah: “And the Pharisees and Sadducees came up, and testing Him asked Him to show them a sign from heaven” (Matt 16:1). Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of YHWH; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork.” And YHWH said, ‘Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:” (Gen 1:14; also Jer. 10:2).

Today there are “projector” programs where we can chart the movements of the heavenly bodies to see what they looked like 2,000 years ago at the birth of Y’shua and if they will repeat themselves at His second coming. The following is a list and description of very significant astronomical events that took place just before the birth of Y’shua:

1.        August 12, 3 B.C.E. – They saw the two planets, Jupiter and Venus, rise in conjunction. (A conjunction is when celestial bodies line up so closely that they appear to us as a single super bright light.) Jupiter signified kingship (or Messiah) and Venus meant birth and motherhood. This occurred in the constellation of Leo the Lion (which is the symbol of the Hebrew Tribe Judah).

2.        September 3 B.C.E. – They saw Jupiter rise in conjunction with Regulus. Regulus is the brightest star in the constellation of Leo (a symbol of rulership).

3.        February 2 B.C.E. – a Second time they saw Jupiter rise in conjunction with Regulus.

4.       May 2 B.C.E. – a Third time they saw Jupiter rise in conjunction with Regulus.

5.        June 2 B.C.E. – a Second time they saw Jupiter and Venus rise in conjunction. Again, Jupiter referred to kingship or the Messiah; and Venus meant birth and motherhood.

6.        September 2 B.C.E. – a Third time they saw Jupiter and Venus rise in conjunction. This occurred again in the constellation of Leo; which again is the symbol of the Hebrew Tribe of Judah from which Y’shua came.

7.        (& 8) 3 and 2 B.C.E. – On these two occasions, Jupiter was located directly in the womb area of the constellation of Virgo (Hebrew Bethulah), the virgin. Jupiter's Hebrew name is "Sedeq", or “ha zedeck”; which throughout the period of Y’shua and the apostles, was another term used for the Messiah. The Hebrew for Regulus is “Malki”. And here we had “Malki” (Regulus) in conjuction with “Sedeq” (Jupiter) – Malki-Tzedeq (King of Righteousness – Y’shua) in the constellation of the Tribe of Judah (Leo) with Bethulah the virgin woman (Virgo) holding the “five branches” (see below what this means).

The “Wise Men” from the East during Y’shua’s birth:

Daniel and the Southern Kingdom (the House of Judah) were taken to Babylon into captivity. There he became an extremely wealthy man (eunuch) who had no heirs. Darius the Mede was Daniel’s Superior of the Empire for many years in the time of Daniel. Daniel was known as a very wise Eunuch. He was the greatest Chaldean astronomer of his time and he helped set in place the astronomical understanding of Elohim’s creation, the constellations and stars. We know Daniel lead the Chaldean astronomers for over 60 years. Daniel, in his old age, received a vision from Yah regarding the birth of the Messiah about 500 years in the future. Gabriel told Daniel about the coming of the Messiah about 500 years prior to it taking place.

Daniel taught this Hebrew astronomical community about this prophetic vision and told them to pass down the understanding of this vision for many years to come until it appeared in the skies. As said, Daniel was a very rich man and paid for the continued education and teaching of astronomy far into the future so that these astronomers would indeed be watching five centuries later for the aligning of the stars, planets, and constellations Daniel revealed to them that would announce the birth of the coming Messiah. He entrusted some of his fellow astronomers with funds and treasures that were passed down for centuries until the stars and constellations aligned as he had foretold.

So when these signs appeared in the skies, some of the great astronomers from Daniel’s “school” (“Wise Men”) came as directed to provide gifts to Miriam and Yoseph for the raising of their son Y’shua. This was a “Kings Gift”, and consisted of trunks of gold and other precious gifts. If you look carefully in the Scriptures, you will see that Miriam and Yoseph were very poor prior to Y’shua’s birth; yet immediately afterwards, had ample money for everything they required to raise their Son. YHWH provided monetary support for the raising of Y’shua the Messiah through a great eunuch named Daniel 500 years prior to Messiah’s birth! Also note, it was not three “kings” that came to visit the Messiah after His birth, it was a number (unknown) of astronomers that came to give Miriam and Yoseph the three main group of treasures from Daniel to help raise their Child.  Isn’t it amazing and awesome how YHWH works?

The Constellations:

Elohim has shown in the past and will continue to show us prophetic events in the stars, planets, and constellations in the Heavens. Let’s briefly look at what astronomy says will happen again when Y’shua returns.

Details of Bethulah:

The prophetic truth is in the stars. These stories have revealed the birth of Y’shua and no doubt will reveal His return some day. In the stars, planets, and constellations of Bethulah and Leo just prior to the birth of Y’shua, YHWH made a formal announcement to the entire world that a Saviour was coming. In the constellation of what is now called Virgo, originally named “Bethulah” (meaning virgin in Hebrew), there is a star called “Tzemach”. In this constellation the woman is depicted as holding “five branches” in her one hand. Among these five branches is one star called “Tzemach”, meaning “branch”. Y’shua represents the “righteous branch”, the offspring of the woman. Y’shua was the offspring of the woman, the seed promised to Eve in the garden of Eden. Tzemach, when translated with a capital as in Branch, means “righteous”. It is used in the Bible as follows: Isaiah 11:1 “And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:”. The woman Bethulah, with the crown of twelve stars above her head, clothed with the sun, had the sliver of the new moon under her feet, announcing the birth of Y’shua when Y’shua would come and Tabernacle with mankind.

When the sliver of the moon appeared beneath the feet of Bethulah, it was YHWH announcing the coming of the Messiah. This happened at the same time as the planet Jupiter came in conjunction with the King Star, announcing the birth of the Messiah as the “Righteous King” in the Heavens.

YHWH used an astronomical event to get the world’s attention as to the birth of Messiah Y’shua in His Tabernacle (sukkah) during the Feast of Sukkot (Tabernacles). As Elohim tabernacled in the tent of Tabernacles in the wilderness among the Israelites; so, too, Y’shua would come and Tabernacle with us for ±30 years. The Prophets declared this:

1) “Righteous King”: Jer 23:5, “Behold, the days are coming,” declares YHWH, “When I shall raise up for David a righteous Branch; And He will reign as king and act wisely And do justice and righteousness in the land. Jer 33:15, “In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch of David to spring forth; and He shall execute justice and righteousness on the earth.” Y’shua spoke as a King in Matt 5:1-19, as He explained to the people the significance of following His Torah.

2) “Righteous servant”: Zech 3:8, “Now listen, Joshua the high priest, you and your friends who are sitting in front of you — indeed they are men who are a symbol, for behold, I am going to bring in My servant the Branch”. Zech 6:12 “Then say to him, ‘Thus says Yah of hosts, “Behold, a man whose name is Branch, for He will branch out from where He is; and He will build the temple of Elohim.” Y’shua’s name is righteousness, the branch. He came from the stem of Jesse.

3) Righteous “Son of man”: Luke 6:5, “And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.” Luke 5:24, “But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house.” (KJV)

4) Righteous “atoning sacrifice”: Heb 10:12, “But this man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of YHWH;” Heb 9:26, “For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.”

5) “Righteous judge”: The Book of Revelation explains how Elohim will judge us in the end according to our deeds. Rev 22:12, “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”

Y’shua is being referenced in all these verses.

Above the head of this woman (constellation of Bethulah), there is a crown of twelve stars which stand for the 12 Tribes of Israel. She is depicted as a woman in labour (travailing); giving birth to the Jewish Messiah, the “man child” who was to rule all Nations. Elohim reveals to us in the Book of Revelation that there will be another astronomical occurrence of this same magnitude some day when Y’shua returns – Rev 12:1-2, “And a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; and she was with child; and she cried out, being in labour and in pain to give birth.”

On the night Y’shua was born, the woman Bethulah appeared just as described in the Book of Revelation: clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet.

Details of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah Constellation:

As Y’shua was represented in the constellation of Bethulah as the Tzemach (righteous Branch); so, too, He is represented in the constellation of the Lion of The Tribe of Judah (Leo) as a lion.

There is another well-known constellation, Leo (one of the oldest known constellations, originally known in Hebrew as the constellation of the “Lion of The Tribe of Judah”) that appeared in the sky just prior to Y’shua being born. Between the front paws of the Lion is a star called Ha Melech (the King). Yeshua was born just after the planet Jupiter was in conjunction with the King Star (announcing the birth of the Messiah), just as prophesied many years previously. Matt 2:2, “Saying, Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him.” His star, of course, is referring to the KING STAR (located on the chest of the constellation of the Lion of Judah). Num 24:17, “I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.” Matt 2:5, “And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet”. The prophet spoken of here is Isaiah, as per Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore YHWH Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Micah 5:2, “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.”

Jupiter (hal zedech or sedeq) in Hebrew, means “the righteous”. “This is the sign the Chaldean astronomers had been watching for for nearly 500 years since the prophet Daniel revealed it to them. The night of the conjunction was the first sliver of the moon (beginning the month of Tishri) which was the start of the Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah). It was announced to the whole world that the Messiah was about to be born. The sliver announced the Feast to the naked eye and the Trumpets announced the Feast to all who could hear. The Jupiter conjunction announcing that the righteous King from the Tribe of the Lion of Judah was about to tabernacle with mankind, A “great sign” is going to happen again…

The persecution, flight and protection of Israel in the wilderness

1.           Isaiah 16:1-5 predicts the flight of Israel into Moab and Edom (and mentions Sela or Petra, the ancient capital of Edom as their headquarters during the Tribulation – on the east bank of the Jordan River in the mountain range in Jordan).

2.          Isaiah 26:20-21 predicts the protection of Israel until the indignation (Tribulation) passes.

3.          Isaiah 63:1-5 pictures Y’shua in His Second Advent as descending from the direction of Edom, where the Israelites are to be protected (Matt 24:27).

4.          Isaiah 42:11-13 speaking of Elohim coming to earth to prevail over His enemies, predicts that the Jews in the wilderness and inhabitants of the rock (Sela) will sing to Him. Psalms 60:6-12, 108:8-13 predict that Elohim will preserve Edom from the Antichrist (and/or system), and refer to the leading of Israel into the strong city (Sela or Petra).

5.          Ezek 20:33-44 speaks of Israel being gathered back from the nations in the days; and of her going into the wilderness, where Elohim will plead with her as He did when she came out of Egypt.

6.          Dan 11:36-45 reveals the conquest of many countries (including Palestine); but predicts that Edom, Moab, and Ammon will escape him (the Antichrist/System). This is the place preserved by Elohim for Israel to be protected in the wilderness for 3½ years (Rev 12:6, 14).

7.          Hosea 2:14-23 speaks of the wilderness, where Israel will flee from the Antichrist/System.

8.          Matt 24:15-22 predicts the Antichrist/system breaking his seven-year covenant with Israel (Dan 9:27), the setting up of the abomination of desolation in the Temple at Jerusalem, and the flight of Israel from Judea into the mountains or wilderness during the Tribulation.

9.          Rev 12:6; 13-16 makes the final prediction of Israel going into the wilderness to be protected 3½ years from the Antichrist/System.

The most famous attraction in Jordan is the Nabataean city of Petra, 260 kilometres South of Amman. More than 2,000 years ago, Petra was used as a temporary refuge by nomadic Bedouins (Nabataean Arabs). To view Petra’s carved and built structures, soaring temples, elaborate royal tombs, carved theatre, burial halls, private and public buildings; a visitor  can only travel on foot, horse-back or by horse-drawn carriage to enter this fortified city.

European Union – the Revised Roman Empire (EU)

Rome ruled when Y’shua came the first time and Rome will rule again when Y’shua comes the second time. You need to understand the significance of “Rome” and what is unknowingly happening under our very eyes. Let’s take a step back and see what happened since Israel was birthed as a nation in 1948:

European supranational organization, was dedicated to increasing economic integration and strengthening co-operation among its member states. The European Union was established on November 1, 1993, when the Treaty of European Union (or Treaty of Maastricht) was ratified by the twelve members of the European Community (EC)—Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Daniel’s vision of the ten toes was partly fulfilled in 1993 (revised Roman Emperor – EU), but prophecy required more.

Upon ratification of the treaty, the countries of the EC became members of the EU; and the EC became the policy-making body of the EU. The EU has subsequently grown to include another three member states with the admission of Austria, Finland, and Sweden in 1995. Under the Treaty of European Union, European citizenship was granted to citizens of each member state. Customs and immigration agreements were enhanced to allow European citizens greater freedom to live or study in any of the member states, and border controls were relaxed. A goal of establishing a common European currency had been set for 1999 (European monetary union – already a reality, the Euro is in use, and they are currently working with unrestrained effort towards a world-wide cashless society).

Prior to November 1993, the European Union was called the European Community. The EC was composed of what originally were three separate organizations: the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), created in 1951; and the European Economic Community (EEC, often referred to as the Common Market); and the European Atomic Energy Commission (Euratom), both set up in 1957. The three institutions merged in 1967, created the EC and established their headquarters in Brussels (this is where “The Beast” computer is situated – Belgium Accounting Surveillance Terminal).

Decision-making in the EU is divided between supranational European institutions and the governments of the member states. The EU administers the European Commission and the European Parliament; and the Council of Ministers is composed of ministers from each of the member governments. The Court of Justice serves as the final arbiter in legal matters or disputes among EU institutions or between EU institutions and member states.

The European Commission serves as the executive branch of the EU. It makes policy proposals and presents them to the Council of Ministers. The European Commission also represents the EU in economic relations with other countries or international organizations. The administrative role of the commission is to manage EC funds, programs and deliver aid to the other countries.

The Council of Ministers (the main law-making body of the EU) is composed of cabinet ministers from the member governments. The Council is aided by the Committee of Parliament Representatives, which is comprised of the permanent representatives (or ambassadors) of each member state.

The country holding the presidency of the Council of Ministers calls Summit meetings from among the top leaders of the member states at least once every six months. This meeting of heads of state and government is called the European Council. The summits were instituted on a regular basis in 1975. The European Council became an official part of the EC structure in 1987.

The Club of Rome and the Tri-Lateral Commission:

The Club of Rome (a global “think tank”) was founded in April 1968 during a meeting at Rockefeller's private home in Bellagio, Italy. The Club of Rome was established with 75 prominent industrialists, economists and scientists members from 25 nations. The Bilderberg Group and the Club of Rome are the most important foreign policy arms of the Round Table (which is led by the Committee of 300).

The Club of Rome raised considerable public attention with its report, Limits to Growth, which has sold 12 million copies in more than 30 translations; making it the best-selling environmental book in world history. Published in 1972 and presented for the first time, it predicted that economic growth could not continue indefinitely because of the limited availability of natural resources – particularly, oil. The 1973 oil crisis increased public concern about this problem. However, even before Limits to Growth was published, they had begun work on a far more elaborate model (it distinguished ten world regions).

On 17 September, 1973, the Club of Rome published a report entitled the "Regionalized and Adaptive Model of the Global World System" with the Club's intention to divide the world into ten economic/political regions (called "Kingdoms") which would unite the entire world under a common leadership. The research had the full support of the Club and the final publication, Mankind at the Turning Point, was accepted as the official Second Report to the Club of Rome in 1974 – providing a more refined regional breakdown. The Second Report revised the predictions of the original Limits to Growth and gave a more optimistic prognosis for the future of the environment, noting that many of the factors were within human control and therefore that environmental and economic catastrophe were preventable or avoidable – hence the title. The goal was to kill the “useless eater”…

The following information is taken from the report written by Dr. J Coleman (copyright 1992: 2533 North Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89706), "Global 2000: A Blueprint For Global Genocide."  Quotes out of the report should cause every reader to think!

In the first paragraph of the report by Dr. Coleman, he stated: "In 1979 I received a copy of a massive document commissioned by the Club of Rome and written by Cyrus Vance, three days after President James Earl Carter accepted it as official U.S. Policy....Global 2000 was unknown outside the Committee of 300 and carefully chosen official inside U.S. Government circles...." Keep in mind, that many of the ideas for "Goals 2000" came from 19th century thinkers and writers such as Jeremy Bentham, William Petty-the Earl of Shelburne, H.G. Wells and Lord Bertrand Russell. (Page one, paragraph three.)

"In his book 'The Impact of Science on Society' Russell expounded his views on how the world's population ought to be controlled, so as not to become a threat to the privileged rulers...." (Page three, paragraph five.)

"We are also witnessing the Great Plagues of 1987-2000 in the form of AIDS, herpes, cholera, smallpox, tuberculosis....Aids, as we know, is an artificially induced virus which in effect is a cancer of the blood.  The first experiments were conducted in Africa on the border of Sierra Leone and Nigeria..." (Page four and five, paragraphs five and one.)

"...namely that the world is populated with too many redundant people who must not be allowed to procreate and consume scarce natural resources..." (Page five, paragraph five.)

"..jobless people be confined in concentration camps, run by a joint stock company for profit....Once committed to concentration camps, inmates would never leave there alive." (Page six, paragraph two.)

"Bentham, Shelburne, Wells and Russell hated the idea of education for the masses....systems in operation that would allow people to have a vocabulary of no more than 500 words....might help to explain why Alexander King of the Club of Rome was commissioned to destroy education in America.....A destructed education system qualifying millions who can barely read and write....will ensure a society in which the majority can and will be easily manipulated by men like President Bush, Cyrus Vance, Lord Carrington and James Baker III." (Page six, paragraph five.)

"The First and Second World Wars were wars designed to kill millions....were not successful enough hence the new methods outlined in the Global 2000 Report." (Page seven, paragraph two.)

"the mechanism of agriculture and the industrialization of the world was a terrible mistake....it has led to, and presently supports, a mass of people who perform no indispensable service....consuming the limited resources and destroying the environment of the globe....which they...the Committee of 300 representing the 'preordained leaders' of the world, say is theirs.....the remedy...lies in destroying an economy based upon agricultural and industrial expansion, because these support larger and larger populations of unwanted 'useless eaters'." (Page seven, paragraph seven.)

"The 'surplus population' thus created is targeted for death as 'useless eaters' in terms so clearly expressed in the Global 2000 Report." (Page eight, paragraph four.)

"By the year 2000 the world SHALL have rid itself of at least 100 million 'useless eaters' and by the year 2050, the number culled SHALL amount to not less then 400 million." (Page nine, paragraph four.)

"By the year 2000...cases of AIDS in America will have reached 10 million, with millions more dying of AIDS-related diseases like tuberculosis, meningitis, cholera and more than likely, from bubonic plague. These events were planned and they are ongoing." (Page nine, paragraph five.)

The quotes I have given from Dr. Coleman's report sound unbelievable – or do they? Let's take a look at what is happening in the USA today. In the report, Dr. Coleman mentioned abortion and the gay life style. Abortion has killed about 36 million babies. Many in America have been conditioned to believe this is not murder, but it has reduced America's population by 36 million. The gay life style is encouraged; because with same-sex partners, there is no procreation.

As mentioned, the Mankind at the Turning Point report revealed that our planet has now been divided into 10 political and economical regions – which are referred to as “kingdoms”. The Club of Rome’s plan is to choose five cities as world capitals, and one city to be supreme capital of the world (Jerusalem or Vatican City?). They have divided the planet into 10 administrative regions (the 10 horns and 10 toes of Daniel).

The first three regions are known as the Tri-Lateral Sphere and consist of the Tri-Lateral Commission (US), the Bilderbergers (Europe) and Japan (also the first three areas of how the world-map was divided); and have been designated as the power centres of the earth – economically, politically and militarily.

1.        U.S. A, Canada and Mexico.

2.        Western Europe.

3.        Japan.

4.       South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

5.        Eastern Europe.

6.        Latin America.

7.        North Africa and the Middle East.

8.       Africa main.

9.        South and Southeast Asia.

10.     Central Asia.

The 10 kingdoms/regions come together in preparation for the reign of the “world ruler” with a New World Order. From now on we will see the regionalizing of money, then a globalization of monetary exchange or the “cashless society” (Revelation 13). The name of the United Nations will possibly also be changed to Federation Earth (in 1995 the American Federal Bank changed it’s name to the World Federal Bank – why?).

Lamed letter – Numerical value 30

Meaning (lamed): Teaching and learning.

Embedded in the Chapter: This must be the chapter in the Bible that causes the most confusion; therefore, many hours of learning or studying/researching time must be spent on this chapter in order to understand it. The reason for this is because for the first time, we specifically encounter the following in this chapter: a woman, the sun, moon and stars, a man-child and a great red dragon with 7 heads and 10 horns.

It normally takes a tremendous amount of time and effort for the teacher to explain and teach this chapter to students. In almost every case where a 12th chapter or Book in the Bible corresponds to the alphabetic design of ‘lamed’, we find a struggle against the chosen people in which the enemy is destroyed. Also, usually we find a woman, a wife or bride in conflict or resolution.

Here in chapter 12 of the Revelation, we find the struggle of the virgin who gives birth to Messiah. Her enemy is the dragon who is cast out of heaven. In the 12th Book of the TaNaCh, we find Esther entering a gentile court to save her people from genocide, etc.

The main lesson to be learned through the ‘lamed’ is that we may come to know Elohim. Our struggles bring us to a place where we can begin to comprehend the infinite El Shaddai.

Revelation Chapter 13

The Beasts from the Sea and Earth

Background

Two Beasts are identified in this chapter: one out of the sea (verse 1-10), and one out of the earth (verse 11-18). The first Beast is political and secular, while the second Beast is religious. This chapter also gives us the system that will be put in place to enslave mankind – the cashless society system.

This chapter details how satan goes about destroying the Torah-observant Believers in Yshua who refuse to take his mark and establishes his tyrannical dominion over Earth.

1 And I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast coming up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads names of blasphemy.

2 And the beast I saw was like a leopard, and his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. And the dragon gave him his power, and his throne, and great authority.

3 And I saw one of his heads, as having been slain to death, and his deadly wound was healed. And all the earth marveled after the beast.

4 And they worshipped the dragon who gave authority to the beast. And they worshipped the beast, saying, “Who is like the beast? Who is able to fight with him?”

5 And he was given a mouth speaking great matters and blasphemies, and he was given authority to do so forty-two months.

6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemies against Elohim, to blaspheme His Name, and His Tent, and those dwelling in the heaven.

7 And it was given to him to fight with the set-apart ones and to overcome them. And authority was given to him over every tribe and tongue and nation.

8 And all those dwelling on the earth, whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the slain Lamb, from the foundation of the world shall worship him.

9 If anyone has an ear, let him hear.

10 He who brings into captivity shall go into captivity, he who kills with the sword has to be killed with the sword. Here is the endurance and the belief of the set-apart ones.

11 And I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and spoke like a dragon.

12 And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

13 And he does great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from the heaven on the earth before men.

14 And he leads astray those dwelling on the earth because of those signs which he was given to do before the beast, saying to those dwelling on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword, yet lived.

15 And there was given to him to give spirit to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak and cause to be killed as many as would not worship the image of the beast.

16 And he causes all, both small and great, and rich and poor, and free and slave, to be given a mark upon their right hand or upon their foreheads,

17 and that no one should be able to buy or sell except he that has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

18 Here is wisdom! He who has understanding, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.

As mentioned before, chapters and verses came about in the 1500s for convenience only. They are helpful to locate verses, but were not inspired by the Ruach of YHWH. Chapter 13 verse one’s first part should actually be part of chapter 12:17 (now bear that in mind when you read this verse). According to the original Greek manuscript, the personal pronoun should be “he” instead of “I” – It is not in reference to Yochanan but to satan; and the verse should actually read as follows: “And the dragon was wroth with the woman and satan stood upon the sand of the sea” (Isaiah 57:20).

        “The sea” and “out of the sea”: This is the mass of humanity (10:2); “masses” of mankind.

        There are two theories concerning the “Beast”:

        Theory 1: It is a system and not a person. The Antichrist global system is controlled by the “Holy See”, the Vatican’s military wing or the Jesuit Order.

        Theory 2: It is a literal person who is the Antichrist. What worse description could be given of the Antichrist as the “Beast”. (Details at the end of the chapter at “The Beast out of the Sea Identified”.)

        “Seven heads and ten horns”: See explanation at verse 3.

        Note that the crowns in Rev 12:3 were placed on the 7 heads. Here they are placed on the 10 horns. Notice that he is very similar to satan (12:3) but has crowns on his horns rather than on his heads. The significance of this difference will be clarified when we get to Chapter 17.

        “Names of blasphemy”: Back to the 7 heads – all 6 empires that persecuted Israel blasphemed Elohim and so will the last one under the rule of the Antichrist/system.

The Antichrist/system will have the following characteristics:

       The Grecian Empire, of which the leopard was the symbol (Dan 7:6, 17). Great speed in which he will come into power and       conquer the world. Nimrod, who built the “Tower of Babel”, wore a leopard skin garment as a symbol of his magical power. The use of leopard skins by kings and rulers throughout the generations, then followed.

       “Bear”: the Medo-Persian Empire (Dan 7:5), an extremely powerful empire.

       “Lion”: the Babylonian Empire (Dan 7:4), an absolutely ferocious empire. The Antichrist person/empire is therefore a composite of all Daniel’s kingdoms.

        The “dragon gave him his power”: satan will invest all his power in the Antichrist/system. This confirms that the Beast of this chapter is not satan because he receives his power, throne, and authority to rule from the dragon (satan).

The beast was not wounded to death – only one of its heads, which can mean one of the following main theories:

       Theory 1: One of the empires was “wounded to death”. This then leads us to the Grecian Empire and refers to the fallen angel that was over Alexander the Great of the Grecian Empire. He is presently locked up in the bottomless pit (the deadly wound) and will be released to aid the Antichrist/system. (Alexander the Great died when he was very young – 32 years old.) This angel gave Alexander the Great his tremendous power and we will discuss this in more detail in chapter 17:8. Dan 8:21-27 states that in the latter time, a person will arise with tremendous abilities.

       Theory 2: The wounded head can also refer to the mighty Roman

Empire that died over centuries through internal corruption and was never conquered.

Theory 3: For the Jews and the Arabs to accept the Antichrist as the Messiah, the Antichrist must comply with Isaiah 11:3. This verse says the Messiah must fear YHWH. The Antichrist will not fear YHWH and will elevate himself from Messiah to YHWH. Both the Jews and the Muslims will hate the Antichrist after he demands to be worshipped as “God” (2 Thes 2:4; Dan 8:11). What makes things worse is he breaks the 7-year peace pact (if you are a Pre-Trib theorist.) The possibility definitely exists that an extremist from one of the religious groups will attempt to assassinate him. Furthermore, the prophet Zechariah prophesied that YHWH will raise up a “worthless shepherd in the land” and “the sword shall be against his arm”, “which will completely wither” and “his right eye shall be totally blinded” (Zech 11:15-17). The Hebrew term in Zech 11:17 is “ayin”, which refers to “physical eye or mental qualities or both”. Zech 11:17 refers specifically to his “right eye”, which indicates it must be his physical eye.

Again, there are various theories concerning the “deadly wound that was healed”:

        Theory 1: This links up with theory 1 above. The satanic prince that was locked up will be released to personally aid the Antichrist/system. The Grecian Empire power that never reached its full potential is now reinvested in the Antichrist/system’s    Empire. In other words, "the deadly wound was healed".

        Theory 2: This links up with theory 2 above. The Roman Empire will be revised in the last days, and today we know that the Club of Rome fulfills that prophecy (details in chapter 12), of which the EU will play a very important role.

        Theory 3. This links up with theory 3 above. Satan will invest all his power in the Antichrist and assist him to heal, after faking a false resurrection from the dead – again, counterfeiting Y’shua. Read what the prophet Zechariah prophesied in chapter 11:17. This counterfeit resurrection attempt would increase the prestige of the Antichrist, since the deity of Y’shua was affirmed by His resurrection. When it happens, “all the world marveled/wondered after the beast” will comply. Satan is counterfeiting Y’shua once again, this time with a “type” of a resurrection.

On top of what was just mentioned, when satan invests his power in the Antichrist/system, he will overwhelm mankind because he will:

        “Be different from the first ones” (Dan 7:24). “Have a mouth speaking pompous words” (Dan 7:8, 20, 25). “Intend to change times and laws” (Dan 7:25). “Understand sinister schemes” (Dan 8:23). “His power shall be mighty, but not by his own power” (Dan 8:24). “He shall destroy fearfully… and the mighty and also the holy people” (Dan 8:24). “He shall prosper and thrive” (Dan 8:24). Shall “through his cunning cause deceit to prosper” (Dan 8:25).

        Satan worship (or rather Beast worship) will now be the order of the day. The world by worshipping the Antichrist/system will worship the dragon (satan himself). Nation after nation will throw in their lots with him. Henry Spaak, a representative for the Society of Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT) in Brussels, Belgium headquarters for the Common Market (EU) made a profound statement. He said: “We do not want another committee. We have too many already. What we want is a man of sufficient stature to hold the allegiance of the people and lift us out of the economic morass into which we are sinking. Send us such a man, and be he God or devil, we will accept him.”

The Antichrist/system will have tremendous speaking abilities. Another possibility is that this refers to the false Prophet who will promote the Antichrist if you accept that they will be literal persons.  He will again attempt: “I will be like the most high” (Isaiah 14:12-14). That is satan's ultimate desire – to be worshipped as YHWH.

        The Antichrist will have 42 months (3½ years, the time of the Great Tribulation), to say and do what he wants as YHWH gives him authority to do so. (For the Pre-trib theorist: He will erect his own statue in the Jewish Tabernacle/Temple and desecrate everything (Rev 13:15, Dan 9:27). The Antichrist will also at this stage break the seven-year non-aggression pact and start to persecute the Believers. This is why the Jews will flee to the mountains (Rev 12:6, 14-17).)

There are two theories concerning this verse:

        Theory 1: For those theorists that believe that the Bride will go through the Tribulation period but will be fully protected as the Israelites were in the Wilderness: this verse 7 is a major stumbling block, as it clearly says that the Antchrist/system will overcome all of them – meaning kill them.

        Theory 2: Chapter 12 indicates that the “woman” (Israel) fled into and are being protected in the wilderness at this time. After pursuing Israel into the wilderness but failing to destroy her, satan (through the Antichrist) goes after the remnant of Y’shua’s Followers that stayed behind in Jerusalem and Judea which did not flee and overcome them.

         “Authority was given to him”: he was given authority to take over the world, but he will not succeed. It will be his desire to take over the world, but Y’shua will come back and stop him.

The Antichrist/system is given the authority to rule the whole unsaved, perishing world (“those who dwell on earth” is a term frequently used in the Revelation for the unsaved people of the world (3:10, 6:10, 11:10, here, 13:14, 14:6, 17:8)), all of whom will worship him/system.

        The earth dwellers (the unsaved, those who worship Antichrist/system), the ones who are alien to the Kingdom of Heaven; and no matter how bad it gets, they will not repent and be saved from the Wrath of Elohim (9:20; 16:9; 16:11). They are the “vessels of wrath fitted to destruction” spoken of by Rabbi Sha’ul (Rom 9:22).

        Those who are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world – meaning those who are not part of the House of Israel or the House of Judah. All people outside the Torah-covenant who are called “dogs” in Scripture (Rev 22:14-15, Psalm 22, etc.).

“If anyone has an ear, let him hear” is a statement in Scripture that refers to a mystery. In this case, it seems to refer to the destiny of Antichrist/system (and, by association, his followers): They who take Elohim’s People captive and kill them will “reap what they have sown” – meaning to be destroyed in the same way.

        One purpose of the Revelation is to encourage the Believers to “hang in there” until the end. One way to do that is to let them know exactly what to expect so that they can be prepared for it, patiently and faithfully enduring the Antichrist/system’s persecution, knowing that it will end; and, in the same way that the Antichrist/system persecutes and kills them, he/it will be destroyed.

“Another” in Greek is “Allos” meaning “another one, but of the same kind.” It is not the same Beast. This Beast also comes out of a “mass” of people, but this time not a “sea” but an “earth” of people. “Earth” also indicates that he will be from the natural world and not from the spirit world (John 8:23); it seems to refer to organized religion. He comes with a "Lamb"-like appearance, and there are various theories:

        Theory 1: This is not a person but it refers to the apostate church; it has indications of a lamb, but its agenda is that of satan. Chapter 17 discusses this in great detail, and it is referenced to the Roman Catholic Church (with the Pope heading it); the whore of Babylon with all her whoring daughters and the various so-called denominations (41,000 according to Wikipedia, 2013).

        Theory 2: This second Beast is the False Prophet and is later identified as such in Rev 19:20. He is the head of satan’s false, global religion and is his chief executive for world control. The “lamb” looks very religious; but, in reality, is satanic. The two horns are symbols of authority and power. The Antichrist person will head the secular world, while the False Prophet controls the religious scene. Sha’ul warns that the earthdwellers will believe the “lie” of the False Prophet in 1 Thes 2:11.

The False Prophet (or the Apostate church) is the one that will promote the Antichrist person as God (or the secular, money-driven world as their god). The False Prophet/Apostate church will cause man on earth to worship the Antichrist/system.

        See verse 3 and 14 for the explanation of the “deadly wound that was healed”.

Counterfeiting Y’shua once again, Y’shua threw fire to the earth (8:7-10); furthermore, YHWH often revealed Himself by fire (Gen 19:24; Lev 10:1-2; 1 Kings 18:38) and the False Prophet/Apostate church also uses fire as a major tool for deception:

        He/it will be one of the greatest miracle workers in history. These are not magical, but very possibly the result of supernatural powers from satan that enable these men to even produce fire. It is also very possible that it could be fallen angels (fiery flying seraphim) manifesting as UFO phenomenon. Isaiah 14:29 says, “Do not rejoice O! Philistia, all of you, for the rod of your striking is broken because a viper (Antichrist) comes forth from the root of the snake (Satan), and his fruit is the fiery flying Seraph”. Seraphim in Hebrew connotes the members of the angelic host whose distinguishing characteristic is brilliance or fire, and the force behind satan’s end-time deception. This is also the fulfilment of what Y’shua said in Matt 24:24: “For there shall arise false Messiahs, and False Prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect”(2 Thes 2:9), exactly as Sha’ul foretold (2 Thes 2:3-10). The primary method that the False Prophet uses to get the earth dwellers to worship the Antichrist is deception; he will use the same power and authority given to perform incredible, supernatural signs and wonders that rival those of the ancient prophets’ signs and wonders.

        “Wounded by the sword, yet lived”: refers to the Antichrist person that was deadly wounded. “A sword shall be against his arm and against his right eye; His arm shall completely wither, and his right eye shall be totally blinded” (Zech 11:17).

“Make an image to the beast”: The world, under the instruction of the False Prophet/Apostate church, will make a statue/cyborg/ hologram/super computer in the very image of the Antichrist. This image will be erected in Jerusalemand will be placed in the Third Jewish Temple, to be worshipped by any person at any time. This act is forbidden by the second commandment (Exod 20:4). This is the “abomination of desolation” spoken of by Y’shua (Matt 24:15) and Daniel (Dan 9:27).

        The most powerfully deceptive and compelling sign is an image of the Antichrist made by the earth dwellers (which the False Prophet causes to come to life, speak, and cause those who refuse to worship it to be killed). It is not difficult to imagine (with today’s holographic technology) how a life-like image that speaks could be made – but this image actually comes to life and causes people to be killed. A holographic image can be projected anywhere in the world (as Al Gore’s was when he opened the Live Earth concert series from Sydney, Australia, and his holo-graphic image was projected onto a stage in Tokyo, Japan, on July 7, 2007). It is not that difficult to imagine how an image of the Antichrist could be projected anywhere and simultaneously everywhere in the world to facilitate total world control. Y’shua warned about this in Matt 24:26: “So if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe.” This image will probably be linked to some sort of super computer, which will be capable of conducting intelligent conversation. There are already such computers in existence. The Antichrist/system will enslave and control billions of people through such an all-knowing computer system. Such a system is absolutely vital for the Antichrist/system to have the facts on every person on the face of the earth at his fingertips. He will force everyone who does not worship the image to be beheaded (20:4). Nobody will be exempted.

The False Prophet will be the person responsible to bring in legislation to force people to accept the mark (see details at the end of the chapter). In summary, there are two theories on the mark:

        Theory 1: The mark will not be a physical mark but a symbolic mark acknowledging allegiance to a system.

        Theory 2: The mark will be a physical mark which can be seen and be used for identification and surveillance.

        Whichever theory you select, this is another way the False Prophet/Apostate church facilitates control of the earth dwellers to allow only those with the mark to buy or sell, effectively isolating and/or starving to death all those who refuse to accept the mark. (Some Bibles say “on” or “in” and not “upon”. This is explained at the end of the chapter.)

Severe famine will start (3rd seal/black horse – Rev 6:5-6) because of this “mark”; and as said, nobody will be able to buy or sell unless you comply with the above. If you do not want to accept the mark, you will be beheaded (20:4).

The Beast out of the Sea Identified

Many ask, is the Beast an Antichrist system or is it the Antichrist person?

Theory 1: An Antichrist as System

First of all, we must ask: “What is this beast and what worship does it entail?” The Beast appears to be the worship of money or mammon personified in a global system of commerce. In the days of Yochanan, business contracts in the Roman and Greek world were signed, sealed and introduced in the name of a god or deity. The trade or merchant guilds were dedicated to a particular god or deity; and one could only join the guild by swearing allegiance to the Greek or Roman god and goddess. This system of commerce (tied up in Rome, with the worship of the Roman Emperor as a god) meant that all Believers were effectively excluded from commerce by the very nature of the economic system. Believers could not sign contracts in the name of the divine emperor, Apollo, or any other demon deity. Without a signature or allegiance to this beastly system of economics, Believers couldn't join merchant guilds for business or trade. To consent to this form of commerce (to buy and sell) was to deny Elohim and to worship man and a human system of economics as the god of your life! Those who did not submit could not buy or sell.

Yochanan, it seems, had a very clear image of just who and what this Beast was at the time he wrote the Revelation. It wasn't all prophetic future; it was a real problem the Believers were facing at the time, as they were being told to compromise their faith in order to secure their economic futures.

For the Hebrew, the number 6 represented the number of man. Man was created on the 6th day. At the time of Revelation in 95 CE, the Roman Emperors (or Caesars) were considered divine beings. Citizens were required to prove their loyalty to the State by offering incense as a sacrifice of worship to the Emperor as a god of Rome. The number value of the alphabet of Nero Caesar's name added up to 666. Thus, this number was the number of a Man who symbolized all of man's rebellion against Elohim by making himself to be a god and by requiring others to worship him. This last system will be similar – an against Elohim system.

Theory 2: The Antichrist as Person

1.           Y’shua said the “blinded” House of Judah will accept the Antichrist as Messiah: “I have come in My Father’s Name and you do not receive Me, if another comes in his own name, him you would receive.” (John 5:43). This is not a system but a person.

2.          He is a man (Rev 13:18; 2 Thes 2:3).

3.          Who is he? At present he is unknown – he might be any Jew now prominent in world affairs inside the EU’s geographical area.

4.          When will he come? He will not come on the scene of action until after 10 kingdoms are formed in the world (Rev 17:12 – which is already in place by the Club of Rome) (Dan 7:23-24). He will come at the beginning of Daniel’s 70th week (Dan 9:27; Rev 6:1-2), the beginning of the seven-year Tribulation period.

5.          Many scholars believe that the Antichrist will come from the Syria/Lebanon area (Isaiah 10:5; 24), and use Dan 7:23-24 (Roman Empire), 8:9 & 20-25 (Grecian Empire), 11:36-45 as their motivation. Their            argument is that the Antichrist must come out of both empires’ geographical area. This, then, means that it can only be the geographical areas where they overlap.

6.          What will he be called? See, “Titles of the Antichrist” in chapter 6.

7.          Where is he to reign? From Jerusalem (Dan 9:25-27, 11:45; Matt 24:15; 2 Thes 2:3-4; Rev 11:1-2).

8.          What power will he have? He will receive power from satan (Dan 8:24, 11:38-39; 2 Thes 2:8-12; Rev 13:1 & 4, 17:12-17). The spirit out of the abyss will be satan’s agent dominating the Antichrist (Rev 11:7, 17:8).

Facts of the first Beast – the Beast out of the sea, the Antichrist person:

1.           Will be a man (Rev 13:1, 18).

2.          Has 7 symbolic heads (Rev 13:1, 17:3-11).

3.          Has names of blasphemy (Rev 13:1, 17:3).

4.          Has 10 horns; 10 crowns; 10 kings (Rev 13:1, 17:3, 12).

5.          Is like a leopard, a symbol of the Grecian Empire (Rev 13:2, 17:3; Dan 7:6).

6.          Has the feet of a bear, a symbol of Medo-Persia (Rev 13:2; Dan 7:5).

7.          Has the mouth of a lion, a symbol of Babylon (Rev 13:1; Dan 7:4).

8.          Receives power from satan (Rev 13:2; 2 Thes 2:8-12; Dan 8:24, 11:38).

9.          10 Kings give their power to him (Rev 17:12-17).

10.        10 kings agree to give their power to him after he overthrows 3 of them (Rev 17:12-17; Dan 7:23-24).

11.        Leads the 10 kings against Y’shua at Armageddon (Rev 17:14, 19:19-21).

12.       Will eventually destroy the Great Whore (Rev 17:16).

13.        Will be commander-in-chief of all earthly armies at Armageddon (Rev 19:19).

14.       Will be slain at Armageddon, proving him to be a mortal man (Rev 19:20; Dan 7:11; Isaiah 11:4; 2 Thes 2:8-12).

15.       Is to be defeated by Y’shua (Rev 19-20).

16.        Will be cast into the Lake of Fire, which cannot be a system (Rev 19:20).

17.        Will still be in the Lake of Fire 1,000 years later (Rev 20:10).

18.       World will wonder after him (Rev 13:3, 17:8).

19.       Will be worshipped by men (Rev 13:3, 8, 14:9-11; 16:2, 18, 20:4).

20.       Will speak blasphemies (Rev 13:5-6; Dan 7:20, 25, 11:36).

21.       Will be given power 42 months, the last 3½ years of this period (Rev 13:5, 19:11-21; Dan 7:25-27, 9:27, 12:7).

22.       Will make war on Believers (Rev 14:9-11, 15:2-4, 20:4-6; Dan 7:21, 8:25).

23.       Will overcome Believers and kill them (Rev 13:7, 14:9-11, 15:2-4, 20:4-6; Dan 7:21).

24.      Will rule many nations (Rev 13:7, 17:12-17; Dan 7:23-24, 11:40-45).

25.       Will have a co-worker, the False Prophet (Rev 13:11-18, 16:13-14, 19:20).

26.       Will have miraculous powers (Rev 13:2-14, 16:13-14, 19:20; 2 Thes 2:8-12).

27.       An image will be made of him (Rev 13:2, 12-14, 14:9-11, 15:2-4, 20:4-6).

28.       The image will be given life (Rev 13:15).

29.       It will do personal acts (Rev 13:15).

30.       Will brand men with a mark (Rev 13:16).

31.        Or with his name (Rev 13:17-18, 15:2).

32.       Or with the number of his name (Rev 13:18).

33.       Will kill men who do not accept his brand and worship him (Rev 13:15, 20:4).

34.      Will use boycott (Rev 13:17).

35.       Will be opposed by angels (Rev 14:9-11).

36.       Will cause men to be damned (Rev 14:9-11).

37.       Will be opposed by men (Rev 15:2).

38.       Will receive plagues (Rev 16:2, 10).

39.       Will have a throne and kingdom (Rev 16:10).

40.      Will league with satan and demons in mobilising nations (Rev 16:13-16).

Twenty-fold power of the Antichrist person:

1.           He will have power to Blaspheme Elohim (Rev 13:5-6; Dan 7:8-25, 11:36).

2.          Overcome Believers (Rev 13:7, 7:9-17, 20:4).

3.          Overcome Jews (Rev 12:13-17; Dan 7:21).

4.          Conquer many nations (Rev 13:7; Dan 7:8, 23-24, 11:40-45; Ezek 38-39).

5.          Destroy mystical Babylon (Rev 17:12-17).

6.          Kill the two witnesses (Rev 11:7-12).

7.          Change times and laws (Dan 7:25).

8.          Understand mysteries (Dan 8:23).

9.          Do as he will for a period (Dan 11:36; 2 Thes 2:3-4; Rev 13).

10.        Perform miracles (Rev 13:1-18, 19:20; Dan 8:24; 2 Thes 2:8-12).

11.        Cause craft to prosper in his hand (Dan 8:25).

12.       Control money and commerce (Dan 11:38-43; Rev 13:17, 18:1-14).

13.        Cause great deceptions (Rev 13:13-18; 2 Thes 2:8-12; John 5:43; Dan 8:25).

14.       Control religion (Rev 13:1-18, 14:9-11, 15:2, 16:2, 20:4-6; Dan 11:36).

15.       Control all lives in his realm (Rev 13:15).

16.        Control kings (Rev 13:7, 17:12-17).

17.        Make all nations fear him (Rev 13:4).

18.       Reign for 42 months (Rev 13:5).

19.       Mobilize nations to Armageddon (Rev 16:13-16, 19:19-21; Ezek 38:39).

20.       Fight Y’shua (Rev 17:14, 19:11-21; Dan 8:25; Zech 14:1-5).

The Beast out of the Earth Identified

Many ask, is the Beast an Apostate Religious system or is it the False Prophet person? You decide…

Theory 1: As An Apostate Religious System

Yochanan sees this Lamb-Beast rising out of the earth. The symbolism here is of something coming out of the ground – something from the dirt, unclean, worldly. It is the exact opposite of something that comes from Elohim or heaven. It does not come from above, but from below. It is not sacred or divine, but is dirty and unclean.

The lamb’s horns here are an allusion to Y’shua HaMashiach. In the first chapter of Yochanan's gospel, he twice refers to Y’shua as “The Lamb of YHWH”. Y’shua is symbolized as a lamb at least 8 times in the Book of the Revelation. But the Lamb-Beast here does NOT represent Y’shua. The lamb’s horns suggest only that this Lamb-Beast shares some attributes with Y’shua. The allusion is simply restricted to the religious nature of the Lamb-Beast. Despite this religiosity, however, the Lamb-Beast speaks like “a dragon”. Of course, we said that the dragon represents satan. Therefore, although religious in outward appearance, this Lamb-Beast speaks like satan. The things it says are devilish and demonic, not to mention what is done in secrecy.

Now, we said that this Lamb-Beast represents a religious empire as well as its personification - the “False Prophet”. This religious empire apparently bears some resemblance to Christianity, but it is not Christianity. A number of Biblical scholars for many years believed that this Lamb-Beast is a reference to the Roman Catholic Church and that the False Prophet would, in fact, be the Pope. It is not surprising that some might draw such a conclusion; considering that the Roman Catholic Church originated in Rome, became in effect the Holy Roman Empire, grew tremendously wealthy, and has a somewhat less-than-perfect history.

Nevertheless, we must remember to stay focused on future events and not get bogged down in the past. Now, it may well be that the Revived Roman Empire/Club of Rome of the Antichrist/system establishes its headquarters in Rome. And it may well be that this revived Roman Empire/Club of Rome makes some sort of alliance with the Roman Catholic Church (whose headquarters are also in Rome at the Vatican). That possibility cannot be completely ruled out. But there is a problem with that interpretation, and here's why...

In the Olivet Discourse, Y’shua talks about the end-times as a period when Twelve-Tribe Believers “will be hated by all nations”. He says that many Believers “will fall away, and betray one another, and hate one another”. He describes a world where “wickedness is multiplied”, and “most men's love will grow cold”. Y’shua says, “Then they will deliver you (Believers) up to tribulation, and put you (Believers) to death”.

Well, Roman Catholics ARE classed as Christians. How, then, can the Roman Catholic Church be the Lamb-Beast, or how can the Pope be the False Prophet, when they are Christians and supposedly being persecuted at this time? That view simply makes no sense to me. In fact, since both Jews (Yahudim) and “Christians” (Israel coming out of the Gentile Nations) will be persecuted at that time, I am inclined to believe that the Lamb-Beast may represent Islam – or perhaps some new religion that we as yet know nothing about. Islam is expanding at an alarming rate around the world; and although it calls itself “The Religion of Peace”, it is far from peaceful. It looks like a religion, but it talks about “jihad” (holy war), beheadings (Rev 13:15, 20:4), murder and violence... It looks like a “lamb”, but speaks like a “dragon”.

The Roman Catholic Church hidden secret society The Jesuits is behind the formation of the new religion Chrislam, where Cristianity is merged with Islam. Meaning this new religion looks like a lamb (Christianity) but it speaks like a dragon (Islam) with its intolerable, ferocious holy war and executions!

(Something to think of: It should be remembered that Muslims do acknowledge “Jesus Christ” as a prophet and Messiah. Many Muslims believe that “Jesus Christ” will return in the last days in close proximity to the “Mahdi” – the prophesied redeemer of Islam. Muslims believe that the Mahdi (alongside “Jesus”) will change the world into a perfect and just Islamic society before Yaum al-Qiyamah (literally “Day of the Resurrection” or “Day of the Standing”). Therefore, it is not inconceivable that the False Christ and the False Prophet of Revelation 13 might be none other than the “Mahdi” and the “Jesus Christ” of Islamic belief.)

Theory 2: The False Prophet as Person

1.           He will be a man. The Greek word “allos” means another of the same kind. The first Beast is a man, so the second one must also be a man (Rev 13:11, 16:13, 19:20, 20:10). Personal pronouns are used for them, indicating they are persons.

2.          He will come out of the earth (Rev 13:11). Which is the symbolism for coming out of the natural world (Dan 7:17). There is no intimation that he will be from the underworld of departed spirits, or that he will be a man resurrected from the dead. Both Beasts symbolize two natural men who will be born in these last days, who will fulfil prophecy and die at Armageddon (Rev 19:20; Dan 7:11; Isaiah 11:4; 2 Thes 2:8).

3.          He will come after the first Beast and will be his prophet (Rev 13:12, 16:13, 19:20, 20:10).

4.          He will come with a lamb-like appearance to deceive, but will speak like the dragon (Rev 13:12).

5.          He will exercise all the power of the first Beast or Antichrist before him (Rev 13:2, 12:1-17, 19:20; 2 Thes 2:8-12).

6.          He will cause men on earth to worship the first Beast (Rev 13:12, 17:8-11).

7.          He will do great miracles, even in calling fire from heaven before men, counterfeiting YHWH and His works (Rev 13:13, 19:20; Num 11:1-3, 26:10).

8.          He will deceive men by the miracles he will perform in the sight of the first Beast (Rev 13:14, 19:20).

9.          He will cause men to make an image of the first Beast and worship it (Rev 13:14, 14:9-11, 15:2, 16:2, 20:4-6).

10.        He will have power to give life to the image, causing it to speak and perform personal acts (Rev 13:15; reference to give life - Exod 7:10-12).

11.        He will cause the image to demand the death penalty for all who will not worship the Antichrist (Rev 13:15, 7:9-17, 15:2, 20:4-6).

12.       He will cause men in the kingdom of the Antichrist to accept a mark, or the name of the Antichrist, or the number of his name in the right hand or in the forehead (Rev 13:16, 14:9-11, 15:2, 16:2, 20:4-6).

13.        He will make a law that no man might buy or sell if he does not accept any of the three brands (Rev 13:17).

14.       He will be equal to the first Beast in sending demon spirits (working through ambassadors) to gather the nation to Armageddon (Rev 16:13-16, 19:19-21).

15.       He will be cast alive into the lake of fire with the Antichrist after Armageddon (Rev 19:20).

16.        He will still be in the lake of fire in conscious torment 1,000 years later (Rev 20:10).

The Mark of the Beast

Theory 1: The Mark as a Symbolic Mark

It is unnecessary to have a physical mark or number branded or implanted on your body. If we look at Ezekiel, we will perhaps find a clue as to Yochanan's meaning:

Then he said to me, 'Have you seen this, O son of man? You will see still greater abominations than these.' And he brought me into the inner court of the house of YHWH; and behold, at the door of the temple of YHWH, between the porch and the altar, were about twenty-five men, with their backs to the temple of YHWH, and their faces toward the east, worshiping the sun toward the east. Then he said to me, 'Have you seen this, O son of man? Is it too slight a thing for the house of Judah to commit the abominations which they commit here, that they should fill the land with violence, and provoke me further to anger? Lo, they put the branch to their nose. Therefore I will deal in wrath; my eye will not spare, nor will I have pity; and though they cry in my ears with a loud voice, I will not hear them.' Then he cried in my ears with a loud voice, saying, 'Draw near, you executioners of the city, each with his destroying weapon in his hand.' And lo, six men came from the direction of the upper gate, which faces north, every man with his weapon for slaughter in his hand, and with them was a man clothed in linen, with a writing case at his side. And they went in and stood beside the bronze altar. Now the glory of the God of Israel had gone up from the cherubim on which it rested to the threshold of the house; and he called to the man clothed in linen, who had the writing case at his side. And YHWH said to him, 'Go through the city, through Jerusalem, and put a mark upon the foreheads of the men who sigh and groan over all the abominations that are committed in it.' And to the others he said in my hearing, 'Pass through the city after him, and smite; your eye shall not spare, and you shall show no pity; slay old men outright, young men and maidens, little children and women, but touch no one upon whom is the mark. And begin at my sanctuary.' So they began with the elders who were before the house. (Ezek 8:15-9:6, RSV)

We see here that YHWH puts a spiritual and invisible mark on all who are faithful to him. He marks all those who do not worship the abominations of idols and the false gods that have even been set up within the sacred Temple precinct! The mark is very real, but not visible to the naked eye! It is not a material mark on the skin, but it is visible in the Ruach to YHWH.

What we have here in the Revelation is the reverse of this spiritual mark. This time, instead of the faithful being marked, it is the unfaithful who are marked spiritually because of their devotion to this human economic system and to autocratic leaders who demand religious loyalty from their subjects. This invisible mark of devotion to mammon is the mark of allegiance to man above Elohim; hence it is the number 6, the number of rebellion and idolatry.

Why 666? Because while Nero was the historical actor whose name calculated to 666, Nero Caesar becomes (in Yochanan's mind) the symbol of all who worship the world's system of government and economics. And so this passage of Scripture was just as true for Believers in Yochanan's day as it is for ours. Each of us could succumb to worshipping our present economic system (and a false religious saviour) and be asked to give up our obedience to our true Saviour, Y’shua HaMachiach. Since the number 666 is a symbolic number representing the world's system, it doesn't need to be fulfilled in a literal mark. It is a symbol of devotion to a type of Antichrist, which happens in small and subtle ways whenever we are asked to trust government promises and human leaders for our security. Whenever we choose economic security over obedience to Elohim, we are acting in concert with the Beast.

The question for the Believers in Yochanan's day is: “To whom do you give your ultimate allegiance and what will you be willing to do in order to get money? Will you betray Y’shua or swear to false gods in order to buy and sell?” The question Yochanan posed is as crucial to Believers today as it was in 70 C.E.

The key to understanding this Scripture, then, is not to look for some plastic ID card embedded beneath the skin with the prefix 666; but to realize that even Believers could fall prey to receiving an invisible mark of allegiance to a false system of security in a time of great economic upheavals. Will you betray Believers and Y’shua and report on people to the Antichrist just so you can keep your job and maintain your business? Believers faced that challenge in Nazi Germany as they did in Yochanan's day. They had to decide to hide Jews or turn them in to the authorities.

The idea of the Mark of the Beast has both contemporary relevance as well as a future application. Today, each day, we must decide where our ultimate loyalties reside and to Whom. Will we compromise on moral matters to gain a profit, or will we suffer for honesty and integrity in business? Will we seek security in the things of this world, or will we seek security in the Only One who can assure us of our eternal future? Finally, there will come a day (according to Thessalonians) when a man of lawlessness does come who demands that all the earth worship him as god. In that day, those who bow down and sign contracts in this man's name will be allowed to do business and those who do not will be excluded. But this mark (which those who give their allegiance to the Beast are to receive) may be visible only to Elohim, who has had them marked on the foreheads [worship of agreement] or on the hand [worship of commerce and labour].

Theory 2: The Mark as a Physical Mark

This is another way the False Prophet facilitates control of the earth dwellers, and this is to permanently identify each with a “mark” and to allow only those with the mark to buy or sell – effectively isolating and/or starving to death all those who refuse to take the mark.

Some Bibles say “on” or “in” (both are correct); as the Antichrist will introduce an international identification mark or his name (something that is visible) on the people, possibly with a laser tattoo. He will probably further enforce the injection of a microchip (the 666 numbering system/or related new technology) into the right hand or forehead for surveillance purposes – and to control/enslave each and every person. This is when famine will start (3rd seal/black horse – Rev 6:5-6). You will not be able to buy or sell unless you comply; if you do not want to accept the mark, you will be beheaded (20:4). You will be forced to accept the following:

For identification purposes:

         The mark of the Antichrist.

         The name of the Antichrist.

For controlling or enslavement purposes:

         The number of the Antichrist.

The Scriptures tell us clearly to calculate the Antichrist’s number. 777 Indicates Elohim’s number for the fullness of the Godhead. Seven (7) means perfect/full/complete in Biblical gamatria. Three 7's = one for the Father, one for the Son, and one for the Ruach. Six (6) indicates incompletion and is the number for man (man was also made on the 6th day) who falls short of the glory of Elohim. Three 6's = one for satan, one for the Antichrist, and one for the False Prophet.

The “666” in Greek is “Cxß” (khee = 600, xee = 60, sigma = 6), which is the alphabetical representation of the numerical value of the mark. The “mark” in Greek is “stigma” and means “to stick or prick, a mark incised or punched for the recognition of ownership as seen with slaves and soldiers.” (From Strong's Concordance.)

The three brands of the Antichrist (Rev 13:17):

1.           A Mark (verse 16-17; Rev 14:9-11; 15:2; 16:2; 20:4-6) that is different from either the name or the number of his name is clear from these Scriptures. What kind of mark it will be is not stated. It may be the emblem of his kingdom (and that is not known), or it will be a literal brand upon the right hand or forehead (Rev 13:16; 14:9).

2.          The name of the Beast (verse 17; Rev 14:11). It is not stated here or elsewhere what his name will be, and all speculation is unscriptural and valueless. Men have chosen no less than 36 names for the Antichrist. They have made him a reincarnation or a resurrection of men from Nimrod in Gen 10, including a number of conquerors of kingdoms and Judas Iscariot. Modern names hailed as the Antichrist have included Popes, Mussolini, Hitler, Stalin, and others. Many have been chosen because their names in Greek would equal 666. On this basis, many others could be chosen. All this is pure human speculation without Scriptural backing.

3.          666 The number of his name (verse 17-18; Rev 15:2). This is the number of a man, and is the only one of the three brands that is given (verse 18). Many Greek and Hebrew names have a numerical value of 666. The idea is that, in the Greek and Hebrew alphabets, there is not a separate system of numbers as in the English. The letters of these alphabets stand for numbers. The letters in the name of the figure “Antichrist” will have a numerical value of 666. We do not know what his mark or name will be; but we can deduce what the numerical value of his name will be, for it is stated to be 666.

Very briefly, how trading started and where we stand today:

In the old days, gold was physically exchanged for the item that was purchased. Then gold was left in a bank and the buyer gave the seller a “letter” with the owner’s signature as proof to transfer gold by the banker to the seller’s account. The “letter” was replaced with paper money and on the “paper note” was written “Pay the bearer the amount of ………………..” (From then onwards, all the gold was kept at a central point (the Reserve Bank), and the buyer or seller did not see the gold anymore.)

Then cheques were introduced as a substitute for money. Credit cards with “buy now pay later” schemes became popular and started to replace cash. ATM’s (Automatic Transmission Machines) were installed at street corners and plastic cards with magnetic identification strips could be used to draw money at any time. Petrol cards, medical cards, and various shop cards have made their debut; and cash is starting to fade away.

The banking industry has now introduced Smart Cards / Debit Cards. These cards will replace all other types of magnetic cards and cash, and the microchip in the card will then eventually be installed in your hand or forehead, and you will become a smartcard! The process has already started, and the consequences are severe!

1.           This is plainly stated in verse 18 that it is a literal mark; and applying the Hebraic rules of interpretation, then we must accept when the first rule of Jewish Scripture interpretation says that Scripture must first always be accepted as literal; therefore, the mark is literal.

2.          The mark is the same as with the “mark” of the 144,000 Israelites, it is an object of sight. Direction is given to the first four Trumpet judgment angels not to execute their judgments until they are sealed in the foreheads (verse 3; Rev 8:7-12); here, too, it is an object of sight.

3.          The mark of the 144,000 Israelites is literal (Rev 14:1), and so must the mark of the Beast be (Rev 13:16-18; Rev 14:9; Rev 20:4).

4.          It is the name of Elohim in the forehead of the 144,000 Israelites (verse 3; Rev 14:1; Rev 22:4); and this is the mark of satan in the foreheads of his followers.

5.          Literal names will be branded on the overcomers (Rev 3:12; Rev 22:4); the 144 000 Israelites’ will also be literal (Rev 14:1) – and this indicates the mark of the Beast must also be literal (verse 18).

6.          Also see the letter "Tahv" at the end of Chapter 22 for more information.

Mem letter – Numerical value 40

Meaning (mem): Revelation; revealed in the middle of a word and concealed when used at the end of a word.

Embedded in the Chapter: As said before, the Revelation Book is not chronological; it follows the meaning of the letters of the Hebrew aleph-beit, that is why it is important to understand the Hebrew aleph-beit.

In Rev 6:1-2 the Antichrist makes his debut, but only in chapter 13 is his character and great kingdom revealed by Elohim – this is the open ‘mem.’ The closed ‘mem’ (soffit) refers to the part of the celestial rule that is concealed from man and to which we should submit by faith.

The numerical value of the ‘mem’ is 40, and contains elements of trials and testing. These trials and tribulations come through the 666 system in verse 18. What is interesting is that the number 13 is a highly occultic number that is prominently used in many occult practices; and here in chapter 13, we find the revelation of the Antichrist the predominant theme. What is also interesting is in verse 18 (3 x 6 = 18), the 666 cashless monetary system is mentioned.

In conclusion, the pronunciation of ‘6’ in Greek is ‘hex’. Hex means “to cast a spell on” or “bewitch” – makes you think!

Revelation Chapter 14

Events during the Great Tribulation

Background

The events of this chapter are not in strict chronological sequence or scope, but in giving us more details of what happens during the Great Tribulation.

Three angels appear on the scene at the start of the Great Tribulation period, each one of them completes a specific task. The 144,000 Israelites’ ministry is complete and they are Raptured into Heaven at the end of the Great Tribulation period. The chapter concludes with the outpouring of YHWH's wrath on the wicked at Armageddon and the gathering of the elect/righteous Believers.

1 And I looked and saw a Lamb standing on Mount Tsiyon, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s Name written upon their foreheads.

2 And I heard a voice out of the heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of loud thunder, and I heard the sound of harpists playing their harps.

3 And they sang a renewed song before the throne, and before the four living creatures, and the elders. And no one was able to learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed from the earth.

4 They are those who were not defiled with women, for they are maidens. They are those following the Lamb wherever He leads them on. They were redeemed from among men, being first-fruits to Elohim and to the Lamb.

5 And in their mouth was found no falsehood, for they are blameless before the throne of Elohim.

6 And I saw another messenger flying in mid-heaven, holding the everlasting Good News to announce to those dwelling on the earth, even to every nation and tribe and tongue and people,

7 saying with a loud voice, “Fear Elohim and give esteem to Him, because the hour of His judgment has come. And worship Him who made the heaven and the earth, and sea, and fountains of water.”

8 And another messenger followed, saying, “Babel is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her whoring.”

9 And a third messenger followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark upon his forehead or upon his hand,

10 he also shall drink of the wine of the wrath of Elohim, which is poured out undiluted into the cup of His wrath. And he shall be tortured with fire and sulphur before the set-apart messengers and before the Lamb.

11 And the smoke of their torture goes up forever and ever. And they have no rest day or night, those worshipping the beast and his image, also if anyone receives the mark of his name.”

12 Here is the endurance of the set-apart ones, here are those guarding the commands of Elohim and the belief of Y’shua.

13 And I heard a voice out of the heaven saying to me, “Write, ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Master from now on.’” “Yea,” says the Spirit, “in order that they rest from their labours, and their works follow with them.”

14 And I looked and saw a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was One like the Son of Adam, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle.

The Ruach keeps on reminding us of the blood of Y’shua that was shed, as it points us to the Lamb (John 1:29; Heb 9:22). He is called the “Lamb” throughout Revelation 27 times.

        Theory 1: Yochanan sees Y’shua  standing on earthly Mount Tsiyon (the highest mountain in Jerusalem). Jerusalem is also referred to as “Tsiyon (Zion), the city of David” in Scripture; i.e., 2 Sam 5:7. There is no indication anywhere in Scripture (except figuratively; e.g., Heb 12:22) that there is a Mount Tsiyon in Heaven.

        Theory 2: This is speaking of the heavenly Mount Tsiyon, to the one in the third heaven. Ezek 28:14 says satan was an anointed cherub that covered, and distinctly says was on the “Holy mountain” of Elohim in Heaven. Everything on earth is shadows and types of what is in Heaven; i.e., the Tabernacle, etc. – so this is strong reference to Mount Tsiyon in Heaven (and Heb 12:22 cannot be taken figuratively): “But you have come to Mount Tsiyon, to the city of the living Elohim, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly.” Elohim sealed the hundred and forty-four thousand with His name on their foreheads when they started their work on earth (Rev 7:2-4) – and this is now after their Rapture into Heaven. “They were redeemed from the earth” is also an indication that they are in Heaven (verse 3).

        Is it not amazing how satan counterfeits Elohim all the time? He also enforces his name on all of mankind’s foreheads to enslave them for himself (Rev 13:16-18). (See additional information at the end of the chapter 13.)

A Voice of authority. It could be the voice of Elohim (1:5) combined with the voice of others in Heaven (6:1; 10:3); also, in and around the throne in Heaven is awesome power (4:5). It is a majestic sound that fills the Heavens.

        Only the 144,000 Israelites could sing this song.

        Theory 1: They are singing from before Y’shua’s throne on earth in Jerusalem. They are on earth because Israel was also called redeemed when Elohim brought them out of Egypt (Deut 13:5).

        Theory 2: They are not on earth anymore, they have been raptured and are singing in the New Jerusalem as the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders are in Heaven. The verse distinctly says they were redeemed “from the earth” meaning they are in Heaven.

        Previously, the four living creatures and twenty-four elders had sung a new song (5:8-9), but here it is sung “before the four living creatures and twenty-four elders.” There are numerous passages in the TaNaCh (especially in the Psalms) that speak of the new song (see Psalm 144:9 which speaks of singing a new song and playing a harp as an example).

        This verse also proves that it cannot be any one Christian denomination; i.e., they cannot be Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, or from any other one denomination!.

        Theory 1: If this is to be taken literally, this is a very special group; who, like the Apostle Sha’ul (1 Cor 7:7), remain unmarried so that they can devote themselves totally to YHWH – following Him wherever He goes.

        Theory 2: It may simply refer to the fact that they are a portion of the Remnant of true Israel who have not been absorbed by the world into which they were dispersed and have remained faithful to YHWH. Ancient Israel was also called (in several passages) “the virgin daughter of Zion” (2 Kings 19:21) or “the virgin of Israel” (Jer 18:13).

        Theory 3: They are 144,000 Israelite men, pure virgins and dedicated towards the Lamb – Adonai Y’shua HaMashiach. They stand blameless (verse 5) before Elohim and are Torah-observant Messianic Rabbis “wherever He leads them on” to go and teach during the Great Tribulation.

        The children of Israel were called “firstfruits” when YHWH brought them out of Egypt (Jer 2:3). In other words, the ones YHWH saved from Egypt were the firstfruits of the people chosen by YHWH to become the nation Israel. Then, regarding modern-day Israel, Sha’ul wrote: “If the firstfruit is holy, the lump [mass] is also holy” (Rom 11:16). Jewish interpreters say that this is a saying which means the firstfruits of Israel (the 144,000 in Revelation) must be sanctified (saved) before the whole nation can be saved (Rom 11:26 says will happen). Count yourself very blessed to be part of the firstfruits!

        “Before the throne of Elohim” is left out in some Bibles – check your Bible.

        For those who follow the theory that they will sing the new song on the earthly Mount Tsiyon: This sounds like the 144,000 are standing before the throne in Heaven. The problem is solved; however, when we remember that it is “the accuser of the brethren” who can find no fault in the 144,000 who is in Heaven before the throne accusing them day and night (12:10).

This will be a literal angel which man will see andhear, as he will proclaim the mystery of the gospel (Rom 16:25-27; Ephesians chapter 3; 6:19). Prior to the appearance of the three angels of this chapter, the first angel seen flying “in the midst of Heaven” was the angel who announced the three woes (8:13).

        This is Elohim's final call to repentance – judgment is coming.

        There is only the proclamation of their judgment and “eternal” punishment, and the command to worship the Creator as all earth dwellers will, in the end, be compelled to do (Phil 2:10, 11).

        As we continue to read, we see that the good news (Gospel) of the judgment and destruction of the Believers’ enemies is for the encouragement of the Redeemed – for those who are being killed and who (like the 6:11 martyrs) cry out, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” So Yochanan writes (verse 12), “Here is the patience of the Believers.” Elohim is saying to His martyrs, “Look, good news: the judgment of YHWH has already started to come on your persecutors; Babylon has been destroyed. So don’t take Antichrist’s mark, continue to worship YHWH, be patient, and in the end you will be saved.”

A second angel followed, saying, “Babylon is falling”. This announcement of the destruction of Babylon seems out of sequence. But, as will be seen when we get to Chapters 17 and 18, there are two destructions of Babylon (indicated here by the repetition, “is fallen, is fallen”): one spiritual, and one secular.

        These systems are destroyed during the Great Tribulation period, the detail of it is in the parenthetical chapters 17 and 18.

        “She has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her whoring” is the present effort to unite all religions under a so-called “banner of all religions are equal” regardless of one's belief in Messiah.

The third angel announces the doom of those that worship the Antichrist and his image or those that received the mark. This is a warning and word of encouragement to the Community of Believers in Y’shua and to those Jews and Gentiles who, although they do not yet recognize that Y’shua is the Messiah, will not take the mark of the Antichrist or worship his image. It is a firm warning – there will be no excuse for anyone who accepts the mark.

        YHWH’s cup of wrath is without dilution or weakening to those who will take the mark.

        The words “forever and ever/everlasting” for the lost, and “eternal” for the saved are identical in Greek (read Matt 25:46). Both places (heaven and hell) are of equal duration and last forever.

The set-apart ones are those who did not accept the mark, who endured to the end by continue keeping the instructions of the Torah and the faith in Y’shua as the Moshiach (Messiah).

         Those who stand firm and do not accept the mark will be beheaded (Rev 20:4). It is better to die this horrible death and go to Heaven, than to take the mark and land up in Hell forever; and if you should die in your faith in the coming Messiah, rejoice, for you are blessed. You will rest from your labors and you will be rewarded in Heaven for your good works done on Earth in the name of YHWH.

        Their works/reward(s) will follow them for their dedication; what you will receive in Heaven, your crown(s).

This is like a preview of a movie; a glimpse of what happens at the end of the Great Tribulation period with the Battle of Armageddon.

        This event was described by Y’shua in the Wheat and Tares parable in Matt 13:24-30, 36-43, 25:31-46. In that parable, a farmer plants his wheat seeds, but an enemy comes along and sows the seeds of tares (weeds) in the field. Then, the tares and the wheat sprout together. The farmer’s workers ask him if they should remove the tares, to which he replies, “No, let them grow together until the harvest, lest you uproot the wheat along with the tares.” Later, his Disciples asked Y’shua the meaning of the parable. He replied that the planter of the good seeds is the “Son of Man” (Y’shua), the field is the world, the good seeds are the “sons of the kingdom” (the children of YHWH), the tares are the “sons of the wicked one”, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The Believers and the earth dwellers will continue together until the “harvest” at the “end of this age”; at which time,

The Son of Adam will send out His Messengers, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice Torah-lessness, and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

        Notice that those who do the reaping of the harvest (both of the saved and the lost) are angels sent out by Y’shua. So, “One” in verse 14 should not be capitalized as many translations have done. Another clue that he is an angel rather than the Messiah is that another angel who comes out of the Temple (the dwelling place of YYHWH) commands him to reap (v 15). It is doubtful that any angel will tell the Lord Y’shua what to do – especially when angels will do the reaping.

For you to understand the rest of the chapter, it is important that you understand “The Mystery of the Two Harvests” as laid out below first.

The Mystery of the Two Harvests

The two harvests are a mystery to most commentary authors. Many readily comment on the second harvesting angel, because its meaning is easy and apparent; but they generally avoid any discussion of the first harvesting angel.

The relevant text is given below, using a direct translation of the Peshitta Aramaic NT[102]. The Peshitta Aramaic NT text throughout this article is used, because it sometimes presents a slightly different text than English Bibles based on the Greek NT manuscripts:

Rev 14:14-20: 14 And behold, (there was) a white cloud, and upon the cloud sat the likeness of a man; and he had on his head a crown of gold, and in his hand a sharp sickle.

15 And another angel went out from the temple and shouted with a loud voice to him sitting on the cloud, "Thrust forth your sickle and reap, because the hour to reap has come."

16 And he who sat on the cloud thrust his sickle onto the earth; and the earth was reaped.

17 And another angel went out from the temple which is in Heaven; and there was with him a sharp sickle.

18 And another angel went out from the altar, who had authority over fire; and he shouted with loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle with him, "Thrust forth your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vines of the earth, because its grapes are large (ripe)."

19 And the angel thrust his sickle onto the earth and gathered of the vines of the earth, and cast (them) into the great winepress of the passion (wrath) of God.

20 And the winepress was trodden from outside the city; and blood came out of the winepress up to the bridle of horses for 1,200 stadia (137.95 miles = 222 km, 1 stadia = 607 feet = 185.01 m).

Many Believers assume that the first harvesting angel in verses 14-16 to be Y’shua our Messiah. The reason for that false conclusion is the phrase “Son of Man” in many English translations from the Greek manuscripts, and also because of the “gold crown” on his head. The capitalization is not warranted, and the Peshitta Aramaic NT says merely, “the likeness of a man”. Translators have unintentionally (and some intentionally) misled people by inserting the unwarranted capitalization (other translations, like the NASB and Revised Standard use “like a son of man”). However, verse 15 dispels that notion of the person being Y’shua, since it says that another angel came out of the Temple, referring back to the person in verse 14 as an angel. Therefore, the first harvesting person in verse 14 is an angel and not Y’shua our Messiah.

Second Harvesting Angel:

Since the second Harvesting Angel in Revelation 14 is simpler, straightforward and easily understood by most readers, we'll cover that first.

The winepress of the wrath of Elohim (or nearly identical terminology) is used a number of times in the New Covenant (besides Rev 14:19-20). Looking at these possible usages helps to clearly identify exactly what is meant in Rev 14:19-20. Let us look where else it is used and in what context:

1. Rev 14:8 ...Fallen, fallen is Babylon the Great, who gave all nations to drink of the passion of her fornication. (put here because the Greek often has “wine of the passion”).

2. Rev 14:9-10 ...Whoever worshiped the Beast and its image and received its mark on his forehead shall also drink from the wine of the passion/wrath of MarYah (MarYah=YHWH, and translated as 'Lord Yah', but it is used as a name throughout the Peshitta Aramaic NT), which is mixed without dilution in the cup of His rage,...

3. Rev 16:19 ...And Babylon the Great was remembered before God, to give to it the cup of the wine of His passion/wrath and of His rage.

4. Rev 17:2 For the kings of the earth committed fornication with her (Babylon), and all earth dwellers are drunk with the wine of her fornication.

5. Rev 18:3 Because she (Babylon) mixed the wine of her fornication for all the nations, and the kings of the earth committed fornication with her,...

6. Rev 19:15 And sharp swords came out of their mouths (army of Heaven) by which they will kill the nations. And He will shepherd them (nations? or army of Heaven?) with a rod of iron; and He treads the winepress of the rage of Almighty God. [Note: Rev 12:5 clearly shows that the Messiah will rule all the nations with a rod of iron.]

As is apparent, Rev 14:8; 17:2 and 18:3 are all about end-times Babylon, and the wine of her passion is not the subject of the winepress of the wrath of Elohim in Rev 14:19-20. The three above texts applicable to us are Rev 14:9-10; 16:19 and 19:15. As 19:15 indicates, it is the Messiah Himself who treads the winepress of the wrath of Elohim. Two additional verses clarify what the wine of the wrath of Elohim entails:

Rev 15:1 And I saw another great and wonderful sign in Heaven: Angels which had the seven last plagues with them, for in them the passion/wrath of God is finished.

Rev 16:1 And I heard a loud voice from the Temple (in Heaven) that said to the seven angels, “Go and pour out the seven bowls/vessels of the wrath/passion of God on the earth.

The 7 Bowl Judgments are the wine of the wrath of Elohim, which the Messiah Himself eventually will tread on the earth.

It should not be so surprising to many readers that Y’shua is the One which is treading the winepress of the wrath of Elohim in Rev 19:15. We also have another scripture to show the point (Rev 14:10), which states: he will also drink of the wine of the wrath/passion of MarYah (YHWH), which is mixed without dilution in the cup of His rage... in the presence of the holy Angels and in the presence of the Lamb. The following from Isaiah also repeats the message of Rev 19:15 about the Messiah treading the winepress of the wrath of Elohim on the earth.

Isaiah 63:1-4 Who is this who comes from Edom, with crimsoned garments from Bozrah? This one who is glorious in his apparel, striding in the greatness of his strength? I who speak in righteousness, mighty to save. Why is your apparel red, and your garments like the one who treads in the winepress? I have trodden the winepress alone; and from the peoples there was no man with me. And I have trodden them in my anger, and trampled them in my wrath/fury. And their blood was sprinkled on my garments; and I have stained all my raiment. For the Day of Vengeance was in My heart; and My year of redemption has come.

The Messiah (Lamb of Elohim) and the armies of Heaven will come to the Earth at the completion of the 7th Bowl Judgment. The Messiah then treads the winepress of the wrath of MarYah (YHWH) on the earth. The second harvesting angel in Rev 14:17-20, therefore, represents a negative harvest of sinners and rebellious humans on the earth.

The specific Scripture from the Tanach that shows the two harvesting angels of Revelation 14 is in Joel 3:13. It shows the negative harvest aspect for the second harvesting angel, and likewise gives us our first important clue on the first harvesting angel; that it, too, is a negative harvest.

Joel 3:13 Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, tread, for the winepress is full, the vats overflow; for their wickedness is great.

The underlined section of the verse shows the first harvesting angel from Revelation 14, and the second harvesting angel in bold. An explanation on why we know the underlined sentence is a different harvesting than the bold is explained further below. First though, the last phrase in Joel 3:13 states that the wickedness of the surrounding nations is great. The previous verse establishes the context as the surrounding nations that verse 13 refers to as: for their wickedness is great. It corroborates the previous conclusion from the Book of Revelation that the second harvesting angel represents a negative harvest; and adds to it by lumping the first harvesting angel into that same category of accomplishing a negative harvest.

Joel 3:13 indicates that both Harvesting Angels of Revelation accomplish a negative harvest of the earth--reaping sinners and rebellious people towards Elohim. With that explaining the second harvesteng angel, let’s research the first harvesting angel…

First Harvesting Angel:

Now that we understand the second harvesting angel of Revelation 14, we're ready to tackle the full meaning of the first harvesting angel.

Why or how, specifically, does the first portion of Joel 3:13 indicate a different harvesting than the last part? The specific Hebrew words used do that. It says, “ki (for) bashal (it was ripe) qatzir (mowing/harvesting), for the harvest is ripe.” The verb “bashal” indicates a ripe, dry harvest; rather than ripe grapes, and “qatzir” definitely indicates a dry, mowing-type harvest – like that for wheat, oats, barley or hay. The second part of Joel 3:13 shifts to treading the winepress, indicating a grape harvest.

If we go back to Rev 14:15-16 concerning the first harvesting angel, the verb for reap in the Peshitta Aramaic NT is khatsod (verse 15); to reap is lamakhtsad (verse 15), and it was reaped is itkhatsdath (verse 16). These Peshitta Aramaic NT verb usages are the Hebrew equivalent of qatzir used in Joel 3:13 for mowing/reaping dried types of harvest like wheat, oats, barley or hay. Therefore, the same language sense is used to describe the first harvesting angel in both Joel 3:13 and Revelation 14 – a harvest of dried, ripe material like wheat, oats, barley or hay. This is an important clue, because the type of material harvested will eventually lead to the full explanation (as well as knowing our earlier conclusion) that it, too, is a negative harvest.[103]

The first Harvesting Angel of Revelation 14:14-16 reaps a dry-type harvest of the field – like that of wheat, oats, barley or hay.

We're getting much closer now to understanding this mysterious first harvesting angel in Revelation 14, whose scant mention there has left most commentators avoiding the subject. Other commentators just missed it and gave the wrong interpretation, as you will see.

Since we've seen evidence that the first harvesting angel is reaping a negative harvest, are there further Scriptures showing negative harvests? The following are a few end-time harvests (4) that are negative harvests:

Isaiah 17:10-11 (To Damascus and Syria in the end-times.): Because you have forgotten the God of your salvation, and have not been mindful of the rock of your strength; therefore shall you plant pleasant plants, and shall set it with strange slips.

11 In the day shall you make your plant to grow; and in the morning shall you make your seed to flourish; but the harvest shall be a heap in the day of grief and of desperate pain/sorrow.

Jer 51:33 (To the Daughter of Babylon in the end-times.): For thus says Yahweh (YHWH) of Hosts, the God of Israel, “The daughter of Babylon is like a threshing floor; it is time to thresh her. Yet a little while, and the time of her harvest shall come.”

Hosea 6:11 Also, O Judah, he has set an harvest for you, when I returned the captivity of my people.

James 5:1-8 – 1 Oh! You rich men, wail and weep over the miseries which are coming upon you.

2 For your riches are decayed and stink; and your garments are eaten by moths.

3 Your gold and silver has corroded itself; and their corrosion shall be for a witness against you, and will consume your flesh. You have gathered fire to yourselves for the last days.

4 Behold! the payment of the laborers which you have swindled, who have reaped your land, cries out; and the call of the reapers has entered into the ears of MarYah of Hosts/Armies (YHWH). [or, MarYah, leader of the armies of Heaven]

5 You have made merry upon the earth; and you have been gluttons. You have nourished your bodies, as for a day of slaughter.

6 You have condemned and murdered the righteous person; and he has not opposed you.

7 But you be patient my brothers until the coming of MarYah (YHWH), like a farmer who waits for the precious crops of the ground; and he is patient over them until he receives the early and late rain.

8 In this way also, be patient and strengthen your hearts; for the coming of our Lord, it draws near.

The above prophecies of the end-times are about negative harvests, the consequences of sin and rebellion against Elohim. Who, then, are those whom the Messiah rescues at His coming to reign on the earth? Primarily two groups: the natural branches who Paul mentions in Romans 11:17-31; and the grafted-in branches. The metaphor used in Romans 11 is an Olive Tree, whose root is the Messiah; and the Olive Tree is called the commonwealth of spiritual Israel. The natural branches are Judah (but not all of them) comprising those who are faithful and observant. The grafted-in Wild Olive-tree Branches are the lost sheep of the House of Israel Believers coming out of the nations, who are born again in Y’shua our Messiah and grafted back into the Cultivated Olive-tree through the Torah-Covenant. Together, the natural branches and grafted-in branches comprise the fruit-bearing branches of the Word of Elohim by faith and keeping Torah.

Is there a clearer Scriptural indication of the first harvesting angel, whose harvest is a dried ripe type harvest, and whose harvest is a negative harvest? Yes, Y’shua explained it specifically in the following verses:

Matt 13:37-43: 37 And He answered and said to them, “He who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man.

38 The field is the world; and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; and the tares are the children of the evil/wicked one.

39 The enemy that sowed them is Satan (the deceiver); and the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.

40 Therefore, just as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.

41 The Son of Man shall send forth his angels; and they will select out from His kingdom all of those stumbling blocks and all those doers of evil.

42 And they will cast them into the essence of fire (or a furnace of fire); there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [essence of fire gives the sense of eternal fire]

43 Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has an ear that will hear, let him hear.”

The first Harvesting Angel of Rev 14:14-16 reaps a dry-type harvest of the field – like that of wheat, oats, barley or hay. It is a negative harvest. The dry harvest is for the tares – the children of the wicked one.

So now we know the answer to the mystery of the first harvesting angel of Revelation 14, that it is a reaping of the tares and not a positive harvest of wheat, oats, barley or hay. Tares are weeds that grow in among the crops; and in this case, it is a metaphor for those who have rejected Elohim.

14 And I looked and saw a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud was One (one) like the Son of Adam (rather in the likeness of a man), having on His (his) head a golden crown, and in His (his) hand a sharp sickle.

15 And another messenger came out of the Dwelling Place, crying with a loud voice to the One (one) sitting on the cloud, “Send Your sickle and reap, because the hour has come for You to reap, because the harvest of the earth is ripe.”

16 And the One (one) sitting on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth, and the earth was reaped.

17 And another messengercame out of the Dwelling Place which is in the heaven, and he too held a sharp sickle.

18 And another messenger came out from the altar, having authority over the fire, and he cried with a loud cry to him having the sharp sickle, saying, “Send your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, because her grapes are ripe.”

19 And the messenger thrust his sickle into the earth and gathered the vine of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of Elohim.

20 And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood came out of the winepress, up to the bridles of the horses, for about three hundred kilometres.

Notice that those who do the reaping of the harvest are angels sent out by Elohim; so, “One” in verse 14 should not be capitalized as he is the “first harvest angel” reaping the “dry harvest”.

        Another clue that he is an angel rather than the Messiah is that another angel (who comes out of the Temple, the dwelling place of YHWH) commands him to reap (verse 15). It is doubtful that any angel will tell Y’shua HaMashiach what to do, especially when angels will do the reaping. The crown possibly indicates he is one of the arch angels who is in a superior position leading the other angels.

The worship altar which is the “Altar of Incense”.

        This angel will throw fire to the earth.

        The “clusters” refer to the wicked people/ nations.

        The “grapes are ripe” refers to the appropriate time having arrived for the judgment of the nations. Y’shua will judge the wicked people/nations at the Battle of Armageddon.

Y’shua will enter into judgment with them in the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Joel 3:2, 10-14). Many scholars believe that the valley starts between the Olive Mountain and the Temple Mountain – also known as the Kidron Valley.

        They will all be killed during the Battle of Armageddon, where they will meet the full fury of Elohim's wrath.

        The heart of the battle will take place in and around Jerusalem, but battle will eventually cover the entirety of Israel.

        It will be a door-to-door Battle in Jerusalem (Joel 2:9 and Zech 14:1-2).

        It will be utterly gruesome, as the “blood” which is actually magma/lava (see details at the end of the chapter: Blood or Magma?”), which will flow in places ±1.8 m deep and ±222 km long.

        The Peshitta Aramaic NT (Crawford manuscript for Revelation) has alef vumatin eestdon, which is literally one thousand and two hundred stadia. Note that some Western Peshitta Aramaic texts use a back-translated Revelation from the Greek, since most very old Peshitta manuscripts only had 22 books and not the 27 we have today. They perpetuate the error in the Greek manuscripts (this is also the error in Rev 14:20 in the Jerusalem Bible Society Peshitta Aramaic NT). Bauscher notes in his Interlinear that the Greek ms. Aleph (4th century) has a thousand two hundred as does the Philoxenian Syriac Greek version (6th century). The Greek codex Sinaiticus (195 AD?) has a thousand [six] and two hundred; so someone added the [six] later, or noted it may be interpreted both ways; but 1,200 is the main reading in it. The codex Sinaiticus may be the oldest complete NT in Greek. Pastor Bauscher writes that the person translating from the Aramaic to Greek saw the letter 'vav' and read it as a “6” instead of as “and”, and used one thousand plus 6 x 100 in a more Hebrew manner. The point is that the Peshitta Aramaic NT (Craword manuscript of Revelation) has 1,200 stadia as do the 3 very old Greek manuscripts mentioned. 1,200 stadia is about 138 miles and not 200 miles.

        Overflowing rain mixed with hailstones, fire and brimstone will also fall on Israel as it is the same timing as in Rev 16:16-21; and millions will be killed in one day.

This Mount Tsiyon is the Heavenly One

1.      This scene is heavenly (14:1-5) and the 144,000 have been taken (raptured) to Heaven after their work is completed. They follow the same pattern as the Bride, Two Witnesses, etc.

2.     Earthly Mount Tsiyon is not mentioned in this context.

3.     The Lamb, Y’shua, is never pictured on Earth in Revelation during the Tribulation Period.

4.     All raptured people go to the heavenly Mount Tsiyon (Heb 11:10, 13-16; John 14:1-3; Rev 21-22).

5.     There is a heavenly Mount Tsiyon (Rom 11:26; Heb 12:22-23).

6.     Y’shua will come out of Tsiyon to earth at His Second Coming (Rom 11:26).

The 144,000 and their New Song

The Greek word is “kainos” – which means “renewed, or fresh newly introduced”. The song will be new to them. It is one no man can learn but the 144,000; implying they have an experience that no other man of any other company has ever had.

Songs in Scripture pertain to some special experience. This was true of the singing of Moshe, Miriam, and Israel (Exod 15:1, 20-21); Deborah and Barak (Judge 5); and of many who composed the Psalms of Israel (see titles of all Psalms). This will be true of the songs of Israel in the future Tribulation (Isaiah 24:4-17); of the Tribulation Believers (Rev 15:2-4); and of the Believers in Rev 5:8-10. All songs are songs of deliverance. The reason why Israel hung their harps upon the willow trees in Babylon was because they had no deliverance (Psalm 137).

Distinctions of the 144,000

1.      Their number is unique (Rev 7:4, 14:1).

2.     The only company sealed by an angel (Rev 7:1-8).

3.     The only company having the Father’s Name written on their foreheads while on earth (Rev 7:1-3, 14:1).

4.     The only company protected from the Trumpet Judgments (Rev 7:1-3, 9:4, 12:5).

5.     The only company composed entirely of living Believers who are saved and translated in one generation (Rev 7:1-8, 12:5, 14:1-5).

6.     The only company of redeemed, composed entirely of Israelites (Rev 7:1-8, 14:1-5).

7.     The only company that will experience seeing the Temple judgments of the Trumpets upon others; and they themselves will be protected (Rev 7:1-3, 9:4, 12:5, 14:1-5).

Three Messenger Angels Flying in Heaven

1.      The first flies around in the Heavens close enough to the earth to be seen and heard by men. He proclaims the message to fear Elohim to all men on earth during the Great Tribulation. This Gospel is the same as what we now preach with but one exception. He will be able to announce that the hour of Elohim’s judgment has come. We can only announce that it is coming (Rev 14:6-7). All theories that this Gospel is a special one given to certain groups only are false. The angel will literally be doing what is stated here.

2.     The second angel will fly in the Heavens announcing the fall of Mystery Babylon, which will be destroyed during the Great Tribulation period (Rev 17).

3.     The third angel will fly in the Heavens warning all men in the kingdom of the Antichrist that if they do accept the mark, the name, or the number of the name of the Beast and worship him, they will seal their own doom and be punished in eternal hell (Rev 14:9-11).

Blood or Magma?

Elohim Slowly Forms a Great Valley[104]:

Micah 1:3-4: 3 For, behold the Lord cometh forth out of his place, and will come down, and tread upon the high places of the earth.

4 And the mountains shall be molten under him, and the valley shall be cleft, as wax before the fire, and as the waters that are poured down a steep place,

These verses figuratively picture melting topography and spreading valleys beneath the feet of Y’shua. The word used here for “cleft” is “baqa” – which is the same word used for “cleave” in Zech 14:4 (further on in this section) to describe the formation of a very great valley through the Mount of Olives. It means to break, rend, rip up, make a breach, separate, split, cut out, break through or into or to divide. The same Elohim who inspired this Scripture has, for a very long time, been bringing molten rock upward through a crack in the crust of southeastern Africa. And, as this molten rock has cooled to form new crust, it has caused the crack to spread apart into a very great valley, a valley that is cleaving apart “as wax before the fire”. This Great Rift Valley is shown in figure 25[105]. The same Elohim who is spreading apart the Red Sea floor is also slowly spreading apart southeastern Africa by the same process, from Israel through the Nile down to the town of Nylstroom in South Africa.

The same Elohim who has formed the Great African Rift Valley of figure 30 over a long period of time can, abruptly and without warning, create such a valley in less than a day. That is how a valley similar to the African Valley will be generated through the Mount of Olives: suddenly, without warning, in less than a day. Dr. Tom McElmurry states that of particular interest in figure 30 is the location of the Afar Triangle at the juncture of three rift valleys: the Red Sea, Aden and African crustal cracks. This juncture is what is called a triple point depression in geological jargon. These three large pieces of the earth’s crust (identified as the African, Arabian and Somalian Plates in figure 30) are slowly spreading apart from one another; and in the wake of their movement, are leaving behind a sinking depression in the crust of the earth – a depression identified as the Afar Triangle or Depression. The Afar Depression has not always existed: at one time, it was merely a structural weakness in the crust of the earth where converging intersections of faults were made at almost perpendicular angles.

But a tremendous shaking and upheaval in the earth’s crust at these intersections caused the formation of a triple point depression at their juncture. At the present time, there exists a pattern of normal faults in the Jerusalem area similar to those that led to the formation of the Afar Depression. I believe that when Elohim rips open the Arabah Fault through Israel, the associated shaking and upheaval in the earth’s crust will produce a new Afar Depression on the eastern lee of the Mount of Olives. I will refer to it as the Zechariah Triangle or Depression. Let’s now look to a description of this future depression and its relation to the cleaving of the Mount of Olives.

Eloim Suddenly Makes a Great Valley:

Zech 14:4-5: 4 And his (Y’shua’s) feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley, and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.

5 And ye (the remnant) shall flee to the valley of the mountains, for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the Lord my Elohim shall come and all the saints with thee,

The word used here for “cleave” is also “baqa” (as said earlier), which means to break, rend, rip up, make a breach, separate, split, cut out, break through or into or to divide. A valley itself is often referred to as a cleft (baqa), such as the Beqa Valley in Lebanon. The context of these verses leaves little doubt that Elohim intends to form a great cleavage valley in the “midst” of the Mount of Olives. It is also quite clear from the linguistics of verse 4 that it will not be merely a narrow ravine, but rather “a very great valley”. It will be sufficiently wide enough for multitudes of Israelites to flee through it. The word used for “midst” in verse 4 is “chetsio”; and used in this particular context, it means “to divide, to reach to the midst”. The word “midst” does not have to mean exact centre or exactly half way, as the following Scriptures will attest:

Psalm 102:24 I said, O my God, take me not away in the midst of my days: thy years are throughout all generations,

Jer 17:11 As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool,

The Bible indicates a normal lifespan of seventy years for a human. You can see from the Scriptures above that if a man were to die between the ages of thirty and forty, he would have left the land of the living in the “midst” of his days. The word used for “midst” does not require that the Mount of Olives cleave precisely in the centre. The Scripture merely indicates that a division will be effected in the middle section of the mountain. May I now direct your attention to figure 31…

The two dashed black lines (labelled “X” and “Y” and oriented east and west) indicate normal faults in the upper crust of the earth. As you can see, they pass north and south of Jerusalem on a converging track toward the Mount of Olives. These normal faults are not there by accident. I am persuaded they have been created there by Elohim and, at His command, will collapse to fulfil the prophecy of Zechariah.

(Please note that fault Figure 30 – The Great African Rift Valley and the Afar Triangle.) The volcanic center at the Afar Triangle is a zone where magmatic materials flow upward and outward from the deep mantle of the earth. This convective action is causing the African, Somalia, and Arabian plates to spread away from a single point – the triple point of the afar triangle. X intercepts the northern flank of the Mount of Olives, while fault Y passes through its southern end. That section of the Mount of Olives between X and Y is the “midst” of the mount, and is the section that will collapse and sink downward when Elohim gives His command. These two normal faults pass through the Mount of Olives and then make contact with a series of north-south normal faults that exist along the eastern lee of the mountain. In this zone, where the intersection of east-west and north-south faults occur, a structural weakness like the Afar Depression can be generated in the earth’s crust if violent earthquakes occur. The centre of this geological weakness zone is approximately four thousand cubits or six thousand feet (one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight metres) directly east of the Eastern Gate of the old city of Jerusalem on the opposite side of the Mount of Olives.

The city of Jerusalem sets atop Cenomanian and Turonian limestone, a rock strata that will safely support the largest structures. One might naturally suppose that just across the narrow Kidron Valley, you would find the Mount of Olives to be composed of duplicate rock strata. However, its slope betrays its actual geological composition, for it is made of Cenomanian pieces similar to the effect of a piece blackboard chalk when it falls from a blackboard railing. Elohim deliberately formed it of chalk; for when its northern and southern ends divide from its middle section, the entire middle section will sink downward and crumble into billions of pieces of chalk. This geological transformational process is shown in Parts A and B of figure 32. Such a downward slippage process has been used many times in the past by Elohim to form large fault block valleys around the globe. When the critical force holding the Arabah Fault together is finally exceeded by the force spreading apart the Red Sea (figure 25), then the Arabah Fault will suddenly rip open from the Gulf of Aqaba to Lebanon. The resultant fantastic earthquakes produced in Israel will cause: (1) a new triple point depression to be formed with a centre about four thousand cubits east of the Eastern Gate of the old city; (2) everything between points X and Y of figure 32 to sink downward and crumble; (3) the remaining northern half of the Mount of Olives that section north of point X to move northward on a newly-created Gaza Plate; (4) the remaining southern half of the Mount of Olives (that section south of point Y) to move southward on the newly- created Sinai Plate; and (5) the Jericho Valley to rip open southwestward from the Jordan River to the new triple point depression I call Zechariah’s Triangle. Figure 32 (looking eastward from Jerusalem) illustrates the horizontal sequence of events as they affect the Mount of Olives before and after the cleavage.

Figure 33 portrays the overall local area action as if you were viewing it from a point about three miles (± five kilometres) above the ground thirty miles west of Jerusalem. The spring and river system shown in figure 33 will be discussed in later chapters. Figure 34 shows the effect on the entire Holy Land as viewed from the upper atmosphere

In Isaiah, we have a graphic illustration of mountains flowing down after Elohim has opened the heavens and made His presence felt over them: Isaiah 64:1 “Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that mountains might flow down at thy presence.” Isaiah cries out for Elohim to open heaven and come down so that the mountains would flow down at His presence. His presence over the Mount of Olives will cause the central block section of the mountain to slide downward into the earth.  It will rapidly sink downward between two normal faults to produce a very great graben rift valley between the remaining northern and southern halves.

Elohim Restructures the Jordan Valley:

Micah 1:3-4: 3 For, behold the Lord cometh forth out of his place, and will come down and tread upon the high places of the earth.

4 And the mountains shall be molten under him, and the valleys shall be cleft, as was before the fire, and as the waters that are poured down a steep place,

In the last couple of sections, we discussed the ripping apart of the Jordan River Valley, the creation of a vast flood basalt plain in the wake of that ripping and the division of the Mount of Olives. Micah figuratively pictures a great geological horror as wrought by the power of Elohim. This figurative description of Elohim’s ability to change the topography of His earth will be literally portrayed in His unbelievable transformation of the Jordan Valley. The most devastating changes on the face of the earth will occur through Israel and Lebanon, the great valley identified as the Arabah Fault on figure 25.

As you can see in figure 27, this valley consists of a block of earth held in place by the pressure of two tectonic plates pushing against it. Deep beneath this great block of rock and earth, there exists a vast lake of hot, liquid rock. Within and below this undersea lake of magma, there is a constant vertical pressure pressing upward on the block, and only the horizontal tectonic pressures restrain the block from lifting and the liquid rock from rising through the faults. When the horizontal pressure is suddenly released erratically along the faults on both sides of the block, then magma will shoot forth on the surface as great lava fountains. But while this is occurring, large sections of the block will be in a massive up and down motion. This upheaval will continue for some length of time, but will finally stabilize to produce a completely restructured Jordan River Valley. The changes anticipated to occur are portrayed in figure 37.

From the Gulf of Aqaba to the southern tip of the Dead Sea, the great fault block will subside as the plates spread apart. After the surface lava cools in this area, a narrow riverbed will exist in its centre from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. At the southern tip of the Dead Sea, a new elevation of sixty-one metres above sea level will slope southward to sea level at the Gulf of Aqaba. From the southern tip of the Dead Sea northward to Lebanon, the block will be lifted by subsurface magmatic pressure and, while the lifting is occurring, springs of lava will spurt upward along both sides of the block.

Once this massive lifting has occurred, horizontal tectonic readjustment pressure will lock the block into a new and much higher elevation above sea level. The portion of the Arabah Fault block (upon which the Dead Sea lies) will be lifted such that the Dead Sea (now about three hundred and ninety six metres below sea level) will have a new sea level surface ± ninety-one metres above mean sea level (figure 38). From southern Lebanon to the Syrian border, there will be expansion and subsidence as shown in figure 37; and from the Syrian border north-eastward to the Euphrates River, there will be massive rifting and subsidence through the Palmyra folds and faults. All of these fantastic horizontal and vertical adjustments in the valley will produce a new Jordan River system (a system planned, prophesied and created by Elohim). As the lava cools and the balance of isostasy returns to the Jordan Valley block, one will discover a new river system slowly forming. The headwaters of the Jordan River systems will begin in Turkey, flow across Syria into northern Israel, pass southward through the old Jordan River Valley, move slowly through the Idumean rift, and finally empty into the Gulf of Aqaba. The Euphrates River will be diverted, and the Arabah Fault will be opened. (Figure 37 – Creation of a New Jordan River System from C to D.)

Preparation of the Valley of Decision:

Joel 3:9-16 – 9 Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw near; let them come up:

10 Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong.

11 Assemble yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather yourselves together round about: thither cause thy mighty ones to come down, O YHWH.

12 Let the heathen be wakened, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about.

13 Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great.

14 Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of YHWH is near in the valley of decision.

15 The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw their shining.

16 YHWH also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but YHWH will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.

It must be noted that the valley of Jehoshaphat is not the place where the battle will be fought, but the place where the judgment takes place after the battle. A few Biblical expositors of today incorrectly locate this valley by identifying it as the Kidron Valley between Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives. But this identification is totally in error, for the Kidron Valley was falsely identified as the valley of Jehoshaphat by Jerome in the fourth century, more than one thousand years after the death of Joel. The valley of Berachah in 2 Chron 20:25-29 is most likely what Joel described as the valley of Jehoshaphat. I believe this to be the case because about one hundred years before Joel’s writings, Jehoshaphat had won a great national victory over the invading Heathen nations surrounding Israel. Those nations sought to “cut off Israel from being a nation”.

This great valley is located between Tekoa and the road from Bethlehem to Hebron. It is a broad, rich vale, watered with copious springs, affording space for the encampment of a great army of men. Oddly enough, it just happens to be located eight miles west of the geological fault that goes down into the underground lakes of magmatic hell. When the great sickle of verse 13 (Joel 3) plunges into the earth in Israel, the Jordan Valley press will be full and overflowing; overflowing with vast hoards of mankind whose “wickedness is great”. Verse 14 outlines the great number as “multitudes, multitudes” and identifies it as the time of YHWH’s final decision on the Antichrist and his armies. Verse 15 describes the effect that the volcanic smoke will have on the heavenly bodies as it rises over Israel. Just as the Antichrist will believe he has won, with his armies controlling the land from Lebanon to the valley of Jehoshaphat, Elohim will have His angel put in the sickle of Rev 14:19-20; and the valley itself will become a raging inferno. Verse 16 affirms that all this will be wrought by Elohim to demonstrate that He will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.

The “Valley of Berachah”:

2 Chron 20:25-29: 29 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much.

26 And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they blessed YHWH: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto this day (Berachah means blessing).

27 Then they returned (to Jerusalem), every man of Judah and Jerusalem, and Jehoshaphat in the forefront of them, to go again to Jerusalem with joy; for YHWH had made them to rejoice over their enemies (they were at the Valley of Berachah and from there returned to Jerusalem – it is two different places).

28 And they came to Jerusalem with psalteries and harps and trumpets unto the house of YHWH (the house of the Lord is the Temple. If we claim that the Kidron Valley is the Valley of Jehoshaphat, it would leave us with this one unanswerable question: how could they travel from this valley to the Temple in Jerusalem as it is at the Kidron Valley – right next to the Temple?)

29 And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that YHWH fought against the enemies of Israel (the kingdom that they fought was not a couple of metres from the Jerusalem wall as the Kidron Valley is).

Because the valley’s exact location is not known today, it will come into being at the time of the Second Coming when Elohim creates this valley through moving the earth’s crust and tectonic plates. It is also interesting to note that since the name Jehoshaphat means “YHWH judges”, it may be that the newly-opened valley outside Jerusalem will bear that name because of the momentous event to transpire there.

The raging inferno of the Jordan Valley will be a flood basalt plain from the Gulf of Aqaba northward for three hundred kilometres (1600 furlongs) to the intersection with the off-shoot fissure shown on figure 26.

The penetration of this Haifa offshoot fissure (via Tel Megiddo) into the long north-south Jordan rift valley / trough will not allow

the ripping action (described in “The Indumean Winepress” below) to tear any further northward than the sixteen hundred furlongs prophesied by Yochanan in Rev 14:20. The temperature of the lava, which will spurt up as fountains of what looks like blood (hiama) on both sides of the Jordan Valley, will be in excess of one thousand degrees centigrade (1832°Fahrenheit). This temperature will instantaneously consume (melt) human flesh, eyes and tongues on contact. When you are made aware that Zechariah’s Hebrew word (translated as “plague”) literally means “destruction” or “slaughter” and that his Hebrew word “consume” literally means “melt”, it is much easier to understand how Elohim (and not man’s weaponry) will destroy all the people that have fought against Jerusalem in Zech 14:1-3. Elohim’s destruction of these people is described vividly in Zech 14:12. “And this shall be the plague (slaughterer) wherewith the Lord will smite all the people that have fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh shall consume (melt) away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume (melt) away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume (melt) away in their mouth.”

At the Lord's command, the earth shall be changed and reel to and fro. Mountains shall be flattened like melting wax, and the valleys shall be raised up.

Psalm 97:5 The hills melted like wax at the presence of YHWH, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.

Isaiah 54:10 For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith YHWH that hath mercy on thee.

Isaiah 64:1-3: 1 Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence.

2 As when the melting fire burneth, the fire causeth the waters to boil, to make thy name known to thine adversaries, that the nations may tremble at thy presence!

3 When thou didst terrible things which we looked not for, thou camest down, the mountains flowed down at thy presence (“at thy presence” is solid proof that the earth is changed at the point when Y’shua returns and can possibly continue after that as well).

Nahum 1:5 The mountains quake at him, and the hills melt, and the earth is burned at his presence, yea, the world, and all that dwell therein.

Luke 3:5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

The Indumean Winepress:

Isaiah 34:1-5: 1 Come near, ye nations to hear, and hearken, ye people: let the earth hear and all that is therein the world, and all thing that come forth of it.

2 For the indignation of the Lord is upon all nations, and his fury upon all their armies: he hath utterly destroyed them he hath delivered them to the slaughter.

3 Their slain also shall be cast out and their stink shall come up out of their carcases, and the mountains shall be melted with their blood.

4 And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree.

5 For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold it shall come down upon Idumea and upon the people of my curse, to judgment,

In verse 5, we are given a specific geographical location where the great sword of Elohim will streak down from Heaven to cleave it asunder: the land of Idumea. The country known as Idumea is also called Edom in the Scriptures, and any reliable dictionary or commentary will inform you it is that section of the earth’s crust which lies between the southern end of the Dead Sea an the northern tip of the Red Sea’s Gulf of Aqaba. It is this section of the earth’s crust that will suddenly be torn apart by the power of Elohim during the last half of the Tribulation period.

It is not by accident that the great crustal crack of the mid-Atlantic continues around the southern tip of Africa, through the Indian Ocean, down the Gulf of Aden, up the Red Sea floor, along both sides of the Gulf of Aqaba, northward across the Arabah Desert along both sides of the Dead sea and Jordan River Valley; and finally through Lebanon to intersect another great east-west fault in Turkey. Elohim will use this great geological fault to fulfil many of his prophecies. By observing figure 25, you can see that Elohim is rapidly spreading apart the Red Sea floor, faster than any other geological zone on the face of this planet. Elohim has been bringing an unbelievable tonnage of red-hot, flowing rock called magma upward through this Red Sea crack for a long period of time. As this liquid rock makes contact with the water-cooled Red Sea floor, it solidifies into new basaltic crust. This new crust is pushing apart two large tectonic plates – the African and Arabian plates. The crack in the crust of the earth through Idumea is locked together by horizontal tectonic pressure applied by Elohim in the distant past and, consequently, the hot liquid rock beneath Idumea is kept locked deep beneath its surface.

However, the rapid spreading of the crust (to the south of Idumea in the Red Sea) will continue to induce more and more horizontal pressure in the opposite direction of the force that now locks the Idumea section of the fault. Soon the horizontal splitting force of the south will exceed the locking force of the north, and the centre of the land of Idumea will suddenly rip in half as though a great sword had come down from heaven to split it. When this occurs along a line from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba, the land will suddenly become what geologists call a flood basalt plain. It will be a valley filled with flowing blood-red lava and all the accompanying horrors of a flood basalt plain. There were no Hebrew words in Isaiah’s day for magma, lava, volcanic bombs, pyroclastic materials, flood basalt plains, etc.

Isaiah 34:8-9: 8 For it is the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion.

6 And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch.

The rift in the earth’s crust will remain volcanically active from generation to generation throughout the Millennial

reign of Y’shua, but the deep opening itself will be cooled by the waters of the Dead Sea as they move southward

to dump their high salt content into the Gulf of Aqaba. Yes – Moab (in western Jordan) will be utterly destroyed…

Isaiah 25:10 – For in this mountain shall the hand of YHWH rest, and Moab shall be trodden down under him, even as straw is trodden down for the dunghill.

The Great Winepress of Elohim:

Rev 14:19-20: 19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the wine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God.

20 And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs,

The word used for winepress is ‘lenos’, which means a trough dug in the earth, a ditch or canal or anything shaped like a tub. The winepresses with which Yochanan was familiar were rectangular in shape; and made of (or dug out of) rock. Blood-red wine was made from grapes. Yochanan looked down upon the earth and beheld outside the city of Jerusalem the largest winepress ever seen by human eyes. He saw a great trough (lenos) in the earth 1,600 furlongs or three hundred kilometres long. The opening of the earth made by the sickle had caused blood to come out of the winepress to a depth of about one and a half metres (“unto the horse bridles”).

The Greek word used for blood is ‘haima’, which can mean real blood; or any object taking on a blood-red colour or any flowing liquid that has a blood-red hue. The Hebrew word for blood is also often used figuratively to describe a blood-red liquid other than blood itself, as stated in Gen 49:11 – “Binding his foal unto vine, and his ass’s colt unto the clothes in the blood of grapes.”

Time must be taken to describe the most terrifying creation of Elohim known to man: a basalt flood plain. In the distant geological past, six major rippings in the crust of the earth have produced six great basaltic flood plains. These six great cleavages in the crust of the earth occurred in zones along the dashed black lines of figure 3. They represent magmatic extrusions associated with the initial phases of continental drifting. Dr. W. Kenneth Hamblin in his standard geological text, The Earth’s Dynamic Systems states: “Where the rift system passes beneath a continent, the continental crust is split and great volumes of basalt are extruded and spread out over lands and depressions in the existing topography.” The rift system that passes beneath the continent from the Gulf of Aqaba northward through Israel is a prime candidate for the sudden creation of a basalt flood plain.

The following quoted material concerning basalt flood plains was extracted from “Volcano” Volume Two of a 1982 “Time Life” series that examines the workings of the planet Earth. The geological consultant for this volume is Dr. William Melson, Curator-In Charge, Division of Petrology and Volcanology, Smithsonian Institute, Washington, D.C. He has studied volcanoes throughout the world, with particular attention to Central America, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea; and most recently, Mount St. Helens in the State of Washington.

“Inland flood basalts, such as India’s Deccan Plateau, or the Columbia River Plateau in the United States, are one of the great enigmas in Plate Tectonics. Their magma periodically spurts to the earth’s surface through hundred-mile long swarms of fissures, flooding vast geological regions.”

“Flood basalt’s are generated atop the upper mantle. When tension opens fissures in the crust, the fluid magma spurts directly to the surface. The sheer volume of an eruption dwarfs all other volcanic activity: a week-long flow can release six hundred and seventy three cubic kilometres of lava, ten times the volume of Washington’s four thousand four hundred metre Mount Rainier. Extremely fluid magma suddenly spurts to the surface through a line of hundreds of offset dikes, each one as much as twentyfour kilometres long and fifteen metres wide. The lava from such individual fissures, about five cubic miles per day, is so hot and runny that it speeds down the slightest slope at nearly sixteen kilometre an hour, creating a lava sheet as much as one hundred and sixty kilometres wide. Flood basalts are rare geological events, but to volcanologists they remain an abiding concern. Even though there have been no historic eruptions comparable to those before recorded human history, a standard textbook notes, “sooner or later they must recur.”

Why do we spend so much time discussing flood basalt plains? Because at some point in time (during the last half of the Tribulation period), the Great Rift Valley of Israel will suddenly rip open from one end to the other. For a period of time after this ripping, a vast flood basalt plain will be created along a three hundred kilometres (1,600 furlongs) section of the valley. From the air, it will look like a great winepress filled with blood. Tremendous tectonic changes will completely restructure the entire valley from the Gulf of Aqaba to Lebanon. The fissures will close abruptly at the end of the Tribulation Period from the southern end of the Dead Sea northward to Lebanon. However, limited volcanic activity will continue south of the Dead Sea throughout the Millennial reign of Y’shua from “generation to generation” as indicated in Isaiah 34:8-10 – 8 “For it is the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion. 9 And the streams thereof shall be turned into pitch, and the dust thereof into brimstone, and the land thereof shall become burning pitch. 10 It shall not be quenched night nor day, the smoke thereof shall go up for ever, from generation to generation it shall lie waste, none shall pass through it for ever and ever.”

Now considering Yochanan’s description of the great winepress in Rev 14:19-20 in light of one of Elohim’s fantastic creations in the earth, let us compare Elohim’s linguistics with His science. What Yochanan saw looked like a great ‘lenos’ (trough or ditch or canal) about three hundred kilometres long. I call your attention to Figure 24 (Part A), which is an excerpt from a 1970 diagram by Dr Frued showing both sides of the Dead Sea Rift.

The long dashed black lines that run north and south along both sides of the Dead Sea from the Gulf of Aqaba through Israel, are great fissures in the crust of the earth. These fissures weave their way downward through the earth in an erratic manner to eventually make contact with great undersea lakes of magma. Part A of Figure 24 gives a picture of these fissures as though you were looking down on them from a satellite; while Part B pictures the same fissures as though you were deep within the earth looking northward to view their actual downward progression into the earth. These fissures are where they should be to comply with Yochanan’s description, “without the city of Jerusalem”; and the word ‘lenos’ certainly fits the characteristics of this great trough in the earth’s crust.

Yochanan sees ‘hiama’ come up out of the ‘lenos’ to cover an area three hundred kilometres long. Yochanan saw a blood-red liquid (haima), called lava, spread across the great trough (lenos) of Israel. The blood-red lava came out of the ‘lenos’ (trough) to fill the Jordan River Valley to a depth of about one and a half metres (height of horse bridles). Note the great fault line that veers off the main trough and runs north-westward toward Haifa. If you measure northward from the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba to the point of departure of this Haifa fault line, you will discover it is three hundred kilometres. I believe this three hundred-kilometre section of the Jordan River trough is the great winepress that Yochanan saw filled with a blood-red fluid as he looked upon the earth in his vision.

(Please observe Figure 25.) Elohim, for some time, has been bringing an unbelievable tonnage of hot flowing rock upward into the Red Sea Fault. As this liquid rock makes contact with the water-cooled Red Sea floor, it solidifies into new basaltic crust. This new crust is forcing two great tectonic plates (the Arabian and African) to move away from one another at a rapid geological rate. This particular segment of the earth’s crust is spreading apart faster than any other geological zone. Please note on Figure 25 that while the Red Sea section of the fault is spreading rapidly, the great Arabah Fault of Israel and Lebanon is locked tighter than a drum. Long ago, YHWH pushed together these two great tectonic plates, separated only by the Jordan Rift Valley. YHWH’s horizontal pressure fused both sides of the valley floor to the plates – like one would push together two pieces of clay. It is this horizontal pressure that locks the fissures in place and prevents magma from spurting to the surface on both sides of the valley. This locked section of Figure 26 is held together by certain tensional force placed there by Elohim. In the Red Sea section of the rift, Elohim is generating a force that is in direct opposition to His tensional force that locks the northern land section.

Tensional forces are building in the Gulf of Aqaba, and soon the opposing forces will end a climatic struggle as the locked fault of Israel suddenly rips open like a great watermelon. It will be sudden, abrupt and horrifying. Elohim will suddenly create a three hundred kilometres long flood basalt plain that begins at the Gulf of Aqaba. On both sides of the Jordan Valley fountains of blood-red liquid, now confined by pressure below the fissures of Figure 27, will suddenly shoot hundreds of metres into the air. I believe that what you see in Figure 28 is what Yochanan saw from above in Rev 14:19-20. When the angel of Rev 14:19, 20 thrusts his sickle into the Jordan River Valley, it will release the tensional forces that bind it together; and man in this generation will see the fantastic power of Elohim revealed in one of His terrifying creations: a flood basalt plain. Elohim does not have to use man’s creations to destroy mankind. He will destroy man “with the earth”.

Hell Enlarges Itself at Armageddon:

Isaiah 5:14 Therefore hell (sheoul / hades) hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it,

Isaiah 5:14 portrays red-hot liquid rock from hell (sheoul / hades) pouring out upon the surface of YHWH’s earth. Hell literally enlarges itself by expanding out onto the surface of the earth as Elohim opens the deep mouths in the crust of it (shown as dashed lines in figure 3). Hell will flow upward to the surface of the earth without measure. These great interior lakes of liquid rock (hell) are dark as pitch and hot. I believe Elohim has confined the souls of the dead who died in a lost condition to these undersea lakes of hell.

Angels are certainly spiritual beings; and the Euphrates River is certainly a literal, physical place. Amos 9:2 identifies the literal hell as something you must dig down to reach: “Though they dig into hell, thence shall mine hand take them, though they climb up to heaven, thence will I bring them down.”

Prov 15:24 (identifies hell as being located in the earth, below our feet) The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

Isaiah 14:9 (indicates that hell is located such that it must be moved upward from beneath to meet someone coming down from the earth’s surface) Hell from beneath is moved for thee to meet at thy coming: it stirreth up the dead for thee, even all the chief ones of the earth, it hath raised up from their thrones all the kings of the nations.

The earth itself is the bottomless pit that enshrouds a literal, interior hell of hot, liquid rock. And it is the upward extrusion of this hell upon the surface of the earth that will destroy most of the Antichrist’s people and his army. Your attention back to part A of Figure 24 – Please note that Elohim has very conveniently created a major fault line that runs as an offshoot from the Jordan River Valley north-westward toward Haifa. The placement of this offshoot fault is extremely interesting in regards to the Battle of Armageddon. The fault line runs directly through (and under) a great valley that extends from Wadi el Yabis on the Jordan to Haifa. The great valley through which it runs has many proper names, but to many Bible expositors it is popularly referred to as the valley of Megiddo. The armies of the world will have overrun and conquered this valley before the city of Jerusalem is conquered.

Zech 14:1-3: 1 Behold, the day of YHWH cometh, and thy spoil shall be divided in the midst of thee.

2 For I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished; and half of the city shall go forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the city.

3 Then shall YHWH go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.

It indicates that the nations (which came down from the north) are suddenly going to be facing someone they cannot defeat: the Creator YHWH of Israel. At the time of the fulfilment of Zech 14:3, the armies of the nations will encamp in two great valleys of Israel – the valley that runs from Haifa south-eastward to the Jordan; and the entire valley of the Jordan River from Lebanon southward to the central portion of the Dead Sea. Israel will have been defeated and Jerusalem will have been conquered. Suddenly, Elohim will rip open the earth’s crust to expose its underground blood-red lava. The tear in the crust of the earth will extend northward from the Gulf of Aqaba for about three hundred kilometres. The armies in this zone will be destroyed by fountains of blood-red lava that fill the valley of the Jordan to a depth of about one and a half metres. The armies encamped over the fault zone extending from Haifa to the Jordan will suddenly experience a great shaking as Elohim moves the earth beneath them. Great earthquakes in this zone will be followed by numerous great volcanic eruptions that pop up suddenly through the crust as cinder cone mountains of hell. Ezekiel described the events that will transpire at this great battle in the valley of Armageddon. It will be the greatest shaking the world has ever known. The Mount of Olives will split into two; the western half of Jerusalem will be lifted up along a line from Geba to Rimmon. The city will also be divided geologically into three sections. The Jordan Valley will be filled with blood-red lava, and millions will be swallowed alive into this winepress of magma during Y’shua’s ultimate wrath.

Nun letter – Numerical value 50

Meaning (nun): Faithfulness; soul; downfall and rising again.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter ‘nun’ (noon) tells the story of downfall, followed by the emerged. The first meaning of the ‘nun’ is always faithfulness. The second meaning has to do with the soul. Rabbinical authorities say, ‘man is accountable for his thoughts, words and deeds, because Elohim put within his body a celestial light – his soul.’ The third meaning of ‘nun’ has to do with downfall and emergence.

In itself, ‘nun’ implies the outlook of hope, redemption and the eventual future resurrection. It stands for ‘nephilah’ (downfall) – but implies at the same time the Jewish concepts of ‘ner’ (lamp), lights shining in darkness, and of ‘neshamah’ (spirit in the body). No turmoil (depicted in the bent ‘nun’) will last forever, because in the end it leads to the straight and exalted ‘nun’ soffit – this elongated final form of the letter also portrays the resurrected Messiah.

It is remarkable to note that the 144,000 Israelites who are taken through the Great Tribulation period (downfall) who remained faithful to Elohim, are eventually raptured up into heaven (their rising) – Rev 14:3. They go through the horrible Tribulation period, but they stay faithful to Elohim. These 144,000 souls (the first fruit of Elohim) now appear before His throne on the Heavenly Mount Tsiyon (Rev 14:1).

Revelation Chapter 15

Introduction to the Seven Vial/Bowl Judgments

Background

Chapter 15 is a ‘preparatory portion’ of Scripture. It serves as an introduction to the seven Vial/Bowl judgments described in chapter 16.

1 And I saw another sign in the heaven, great and marvellous: seven messengers having the seven last plagues, for the wrath of Elohim was ended in them.

2 And I saw like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those overcoming the beast and his image and his mark and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of Elohim.

3 And they sing the song of Mosheh the servant of Elohim, and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and marvellous are Your works, YHWH El Shaddai! Righteous and true are Your ways, O Sovereign of the

set-apart ones!

4 Who shall not fear You, O YHWH, and esteem Your Name? Because You alone are kind. Because all nations shall come and worship before You, for Your righteousnesses have been made manifest.”

5 And after this I looked and saw the Dwelling Place of the Tent of Witness in the heaven was opened.

6 And out of the Dwelling Place came the seven messengers having the seven plagues, dressed in clean bright linen, and having their chests girded with golden bands.

7 And one of the four living creatures gave to the seven messengers seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of Elohim who lives forever and ever.

8 And the Dwelling Place was filled with smoke from the esteem of Elohim and from His power, and no one was able to enter the Dwelling Place until the seven plagues of the seven messengers were ended.

Seven angels (men) emerge from the Temple in Heaven with the 7 last plagues towards the end of the Tribulation period.

        “7” is used eighteen times in the Revelation.

        With this, the wrath of Elohim is complete. It was first 7 Seals, then 7 Trumpets and now 7 Vials.

        The purpose of the final manifestations of YHWH’s Wrath is to cleanse Earth of all corruption, restoring its value and consecrating it as the pure, unpolluted creation of YHWH.

The victors here are those out of the Tribulation period who were killed for their faith in Y’shua and for keeping the Torah (Rev 20:4; Rev 12:17; Rev 13:10; Rev 14:12; Phil 1:21).

        It is the floor of the great Throne Room in the heavenly Temple as seen in chapter 4.

        Transparent glass with the appearance of fire or prismatic colours produced by the glory of Elohim.

        This is possibly the fire you will have to go through when your works are tested before you get your reward(s) (1 Cor 3:13).

        No one can approach YHWH when His glory is manifested in His sovereign works of consecration (2 Chron 7:1, 2).

They sang songs of deliverance. Please see “Songs of Deliverance” teaching at the end of the chapter.

The song includes referrence to the Millennial Reign of Y’shua (Isaiah 2:2-4; Zech 14:16-21).

        Theory 1: This must refer to the nations formed from the descendants of the Tribes of Israel, including the descendants of Ephraim (a “multitude of nations”) (Gen 48:19), plus the Gentile nations who will inhabit the millennial Messianic Kingdom (Zech 14:16-17); because all present-age unbelievers (the earth dwellers) will have been killed (cf. 19:18, 21).

        Theory 2: This must refer to the survivors of those who fought against Jerusalem during Armageddon (Zech 14:16) and the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel (which is Ephraim), a “multitude of nations” (Gen 48:19).

This is the second time the Temple is opened (Rev 11:19). This is the “Tabernacle of the Testimony” or the “Holy of Holies”.

There are two theories concerning the Angels:

        Theory 1: They are angel messengers.

        Theory 2: In Rev 17:1, one of the angels showed Yochanan the mystery of the Great Whore. In Rev 21:9, one showed Yochanan the holy city; after seeing these things, Yochanan fell down at the feet of the angel and he was told he was an ordinary man – one of the prophets (Rev 19:9-10, 22:8-9). This angel is called a man in Rev 21:17. Their clothing also indicates that they are men – “Righteousness of set-apart ones” (Rev 19:8).

The wrath of Elohim started at the sixth seal and is now complete with the seven vials (The first five Seal Judgments being the wrath of satan).

As they leave the Temple, they are given their Vials for judgment. They will be literal plagues.

Songs of Deliverance

Did Y’shua sing any songs? If so, what songs did He sing? Is there any Scripture telling us He sang? How is the “martyr’s song” in Rev 16:3-4 connected to "Moshe’s songs"?

Would Y’shua 1) praise YHWH for His 'great works', 2) for His righteous and true ways, 3) for the promise that the “Lost Sheep” that will one day come and worship at His throne?

Matt 26:30 clearly tells us that Y’shua sang songs: “After singing a hymn, they [Y’shua and His disciples] went out to the Mount of Olives”. This event followed the Last Passover, at which time Y’shua told His disciples to remember Him and His sacrifice with bread and wine. In ancient Passover services (as recorded in the Mishnah), the meal ended with singing the so-called “Second Hallel” (Psalms 115–118). Then came the Fourth Cup, and the so-called “Blessing of the Song” (a repetition of previous hymns sung during the Seder). (Mishnah, Pesachim)

The phrase translated “singing a hymn” in Matt 26:30 is one word in Greek: humneo. It means to hymn, sing praise, celebrate or worship with hymns. Literally the verse says, “after they hymned” or “after hymning” (Greek humnesantes) they left the upper room where the meal was enjoyed. [In the NT, humneo(verb) and humne(noun) appear in Matt 26:30; Mark 14:26; Acts 16:25; Heb 2:12; Eph 5:19; Col 3:16]. In the modern Hebrew New Covenant, the phrase in verse 30 is rendered two ways:

“after concluding the Hallel” (gamar haHallel) (Delitzsch, Salkinson), or

“after singing the Hallel” (shar haHallel) (Israel Bible Society, 1991).

Y’shua not only participated in the Passover as its presiding host, He joined all Israel that night in singing hymns of praise to YHWH. He and they thanked and worshiped the One who rescued His people from Egyptian bondage some fifteen centuries before.

What is a Messianic Hymn?

Y’shua's last hymn was the Second Hallel. Its concluding Psalm, 118, echoes with Messianic meanings. A portion of Psalm 118 tells how a decision by Jerusalem's builders to reject a certain “stone” was overruled by YHWH. What they rejected, YHWH laid down as the Rosh Pinnah – the chief cornerstone of His Temple. YHWH’s sovereign action was “marvelous” in the eyes of the faithful; it was a “day which YHWH [had] made” – and thus one to be rejoiced in (vv. 22-24). Y’shua quoted a well-known passage as a warning to the Jewish leaders who were rejecting Him.

Y’shua quoted the following passage as a warning to the Jewish leaders who were rejecting Him from the same Psalm 118. “Your House [the Temple] is being left to you desolate! For I say to you, from now on you shall not see me until you say, “Blessed [baruch] is he who comes in the name of YHWH.”” (Matt 23:38-39). (Read Psalm 118:26.) These Jewish leaders were about to fulfill a dark prophecy… (Read Matt 21:42; cf. Acts 4:11.)

Yet He also recited the “Baruch” or “Welcome Blessing” in verse 26 (Psalm 118) in order to offer them an alternative destiny. In citing this invitation, Y’shua called them to invite Him back as the One who comes in YHWH's Name and (by implication) will bring ultimate Passover redemption (as this song is sung during Pesach).

But Y’shua sang more (Heb 2:12): “For both he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, “I will proclaim your name (YHWH’s) to my brethren, In the midst of the congregation I will sing your (YHWH’s) praise.””

In this passage of Heb 2:12, Y’shua is reciting from the Messianic Psalm (Psalm 22:22). As a member of Congregation “Israel”, He proclaims YHWH's Name to His fellow Israelites, and promises to sing YHWH's praise in the holy gathering at the Temple. The phrase, “sing your praise” is the same root word as discussed earlier in Matt 26:30 – “after singing a hymn.” But here in Heb 2:12, the future tense and pronoun (humneso se) means “I will hymn You” or “I will praise You in song” is used.

The Hebrew text of Psalm 22:22 (in Hebrew v. 23) from which Y’shua cites, reads: “I will recount [asaprah] your name to my brothers, In the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise [ahaleleka]”. The Hebrew behind “I will sing your praise” is the verb form of the word “Hallel” – “I will hallel You.” So here, too, Y’shua is depicted as singing praises (hallels) to YHWH. He sang praise hymns about YHWH's acts of redemption for His brethren.

What are these “acts of redemption”? Just before dying on the tree on Golgotha, Y’shua recited the opening of Psalm 22:1: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” But, in contrast, before His death, He chose to lift His eyes to Heaven with revived hope and sing from the latter portion of Psalm 22:22: “I will sing your praise.” He did this because He knew what was to come through the “marvelous work” of YHWH – and what would that be?

The answer is in Rev 15:2-4: “I saw ... those who had been victorious over the beast ... standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God. And they sang the song of Moses the bond-servant of God and the song of the Lamb, saying, “Great and marvelous are your works (what is meant by it?), O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are your ways, You King of the nations. Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify your name? For you alone are holy; For all the nations will come and worship before you, For your righteous acts have been revealed.”

In verse 3, the translational issue is this: what does “song OF” mean? In Greek, the genitive “of” can mean one of two things here:

1) A genitive of possession would mean it is Moshe’s song or the Lamb's song – songs which the martyrs sing.

2) An objective genitive would mean the song is about Moshe or about the Lamb, or for Moshe and the Lamb.

The question is, which genitive is used in verse 3a? Is it Moshe’s song or the Lamb's song? Or is it about Moshe or about the Lamb?

The song (Grk ode) [3b-4] self-answers the question. Phrases from several passages in the Old Covenant are echoed in this very song in Revelation. Exodus 15 and Deuteronomy 32 have strong influence, and both contain songs once sung by Moshe himself on distinct occasions:

Exod 15:1 – Then Moses and the sons of Israel sang this song to YHWH.

Deut 31:30 – Then Moses spoke in the hearing of all the assembly of Israel the words of this song, until they were complete [in chap. 32 is the song itself].

The Hebrew word for “song” in these two verses is shirah. In the Septuagint, the Greek word in both is ode, the same as in Rev 15:3! Twice in Scripture, Moshe sang praise to YHWH… Once, as he and the children of Israel stood on the far side of the Reed Sea (Exod 15). The other, as he commissioned the next generation of Israel to enter the Promised Land (Deut 32). Both times, Moshe praised YHWH for His redemption work on behalf of His people.

These two songs are about YHWH – they are not about Moshe. Can we then conclude that the phrase “song of Moses” in Rev 15:3a is a genitive of possession? Yes, for none of the phrases in this song are about Moshe, but about his Elohim. This is Moshe’s song of deliverance about YHWH.

Did Y’shua have a song as Moshe? Would Y’shua sing salvation songs? Would He praise YHWH for YHWH’s 'great and marvelous works', for His righteous and true ways, for the promise that the “Lost Sheep” will one day come and worship at His throne? Of course, we already saw that Y’shua sang salvation Hallels to YHWH.

The pattern remains the same… The gospel accounts tell us of an incident when Y’shua “was filled with joy of the Ruach HaKodesh” and “rejoiced greatly ... and said, 'I praise you, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth'” (Luke 10:21; Matt 11:25). Y’shua did have joy, and He publically (in front of the Israelites around Him) exclaimed with passion His love and thankfulness to His Father redeeming Him. Would He not also sing a hymn of praise for YHWH delivering Him from the grave?

The “Song of the Lamb” in Rev 15:3-4 is Y’shua's victory hymn. It is His own testimony about what YHWH had done for Him. It alludes to what the Father will do through Him in redeeming the nations (“for all the nations will come and worship before you”). This song (as with Moshe’s song) is not about Y’shua. It is Y’shua’s own song offered to His Father.

Y’shua joins Moshe:

The Messiah's song of praise (overheard in heaven after His resurrection) echos with the shirah of Moshe. Together, their one great Song became the anthem of “those who had come off victorious from the beast”; that is, those who were killed by the anti-Messiah (Rev 15:2b). Here is the point!

Messiah's tribulation martyrs join Him in singing His song because He, too, came back to life because of YHWH's grace and power. This is YHWH’s great work! This is the martyrs in the Tribulation period’s hope, too; that YHWH will raise them as well.

Y’shua laid down an example (Psalm 22) for His followers by linking His experiences with those of previous generations of YHWH's people (Moshe’s time). In so doing, He teaches future generations where the anchors of their souls truly lie: Moshe's Song + Lamb's Song = Martyr's Song of Victory.

Because Y’shua went through the fires and emerged in new life by the power of YHWH, Y’shua can praise from both sides of life and death. The hallels of Y’shua, 1) (Psalm 118) and the Song of the Lamb, 2) (Rev 15) thus become one. And because He laid down His life, He Himself becomes the object of praise songs, along with YHWH.

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing... To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion for ever and ever. (Rev 5:12-13)

YHWH highly exalted him and bestowed on him the Name which is above every name, that at the Name of Y’shua every knee should bow... and every tongue confess that Y’shua Messiah is Lord, to the glory of YHWH the Father. (Phil 2:9-11).

Samech letter – Numerical value 60

Meaning (samech): YHWH’s divine presence, support and protection; also stands for the Holy of Holies of the Temple..

Embedded in the Chapter: This chapter features the restorative work of the Messiah, where YHWH will destroy all wickedness and protect the chosen ones (Israel His wife) at the Battle of Armageddon. This chapter starts off in the Heavenly Temple (in the ‘samech’ – the Holy of Holies of Elohim; the design and meaning of ‘samech’ (15:2, 5 & 8).)

The form of the letter ‘samech’ is said to portray an enclosure. It is a surrounding protection barrier that symbolises ‘divine support, protection and memory’. The center of ‘samech’ refers to the Holy of Holies – the place where the ‘shekinah’ dwelt. Its construction shows a complete encasement and refers to a wall of protection which Elohim provides for us. And here in Revelation 15, we witness the divine presence of Elohim (verse 8).

We have entered upon the third level in the Hebrew aleph-beit with the ‘samech’. The next 7 letters (‘samech’ through ‘shin’) are higher expressions than the previous letters. This level reveals the work of the Ruach HaKodesh. The first level (‘aleph’ through ‘zayin’) demonstrates the work of the Father. The second level (‘chet’ through ‘nun’) illustrates the work of the Messiah. We are now entering the domain of the Ruach. It is the Ruach Who guides us into spiritual knowledge (which we shall see in ‘ayin’, the letter of insight that follows ‘samech’. He is our Teacher that opens Scriptures in areas we find difficult to understand. He is the one who opens our spiritual eyes to veiled prophecies.

Revelation Chapter 16

The Seven Vial/Bowl Judgments

Background

The final seven judgments of the Tribulation hour are about to begin. The events we are about to observe are both awesome and terrifying.

It must be noted that the plagues of the first four Trumpets (8:7-12) affect the earth-dwellers indirectly through terifying, supernaturally-induced catastrophes in nature. The focus was to destroy a third of mankind’s environment to give man time to repent, as Elohim is more concerned about grace than judgment. The plagues of the fifth and sixth Trumpets (the first two woes) (9:1-17) involve hellish torment and death inflicted on the earth-dwellers directly by demonic creatures released from the underworld as well as from the heavenlies; all are tormented with great pain, and a third of the remainding earth-dwellers die.

But the final seven plagues, the plagues of the Vials/Bowls of wrath are inflicted more directly by Elohim through His angels and increase the intensity of the suffering – finally resulting in the death of the bulk of earth-dwellers (Zeck 14:16-19) tells us many will enter the Olam Habeh, the Messianic Age when Y’shua rules after the Battle of Armageddon). Just as Pharaoh and the citizens of Egypt were given nine plagues as warnings to repent and let YHWH’s People go before all their firstborn sons were killed (Exod 7:10-12:30), the False Messiah (Antichrist) and his followers are given a series of plagues – but they refuse to repent. Now, their time is up: with the completion of the plagues of the Seven Bowls, they are all destroyed.

The two main theories concerning the timing of the releasing of the plagues are given in the diagram:

1 And I heard a loud voice from the Dwelling Place saying to the seven messengers, “Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of Elohim on the earth.”

2 And the first went and poured out his bowl upon the earth, and an evil and wicked sore came upon the men, those having the mark of the beast and those worshipping his image.

3 And the second messenger poured out his bowl on the sea, and it became blood, as of a dead one, and every living creature in the sea died.

4 And the third messenger poured out his bowl on the rivers and fountains of water, and they became blood.

5 And I heard the messenger of the waters saying, “You are righteous, O YHWH, the One who is and who was and who shall be, because You have judged these.

6 Because they have shed the blood of set-apart ones and prophets, and You have

given them blood to drink. For they deserve it.”

7 And I heard another out of the altar saying, “Yea, YHWH El Shaddai, true and righteous are Your judgments.”

8 And the fourth messenger poured out his bowl on the sun, and it was given to him to burn men with fire.

9 And men were burned with great heat, and they blasphemed the Name of Elohim who possesses authority over these plagues. And they did not repent, to give Him esteem.

10 And the fifth messenger poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his reign became darkened. And they gnawed their tongues from pain.

11 And they blasphemed the Elohim of the heaven for their pains and their sores, and did not repent of their works.

12 And the sixth messenger poured out his bowl on the great river Euphrates, and its water was dried up, in order to prepare the way of the sovereigns from the east.

13 And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits, as frogs,

14 for they are spirits of demons, doing signs, which go out to the sovereigns of the entire world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of YHWH the Almighty.

15 “See, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who is staying awake and guarding his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.”

16 And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Har Megiddo.

17 And the seventh messenger poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the Dwelling Place of the heaven, from the throne, saying, “It is done!”

18 And there came to be noises and thunders and lightnings. And there came to be a great earthquake, such a mighty and great earthquake as had not come to be since men were on the earth.

19 And the great city became divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell. And great Babel was remembered before Elohim, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.

20 And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.

21 And great hail from the heaven fell upon men, every hailstone about the weight of a talent. And men blasphemed Elohim for the plague of the hail, because that plague was exceedingly great.

This is the voice of YHWH telling the angels what to do, since we have just been told that no one can enter the Temple until the seven final plagues are completed because it is filled with smoke from the glory of YHWH and His power (15:8). The Temple is closed to all angels and men until all Seven Bowls have been poured out (which concludes the Great Tribulation period).

        One of the four living creatures gave the 7 golden Bowls to the 7 angels (15:7). Notice that, unlike the Trumpet plagues which were announced by the sounding of trumpets by angels, each of these final Bowl plagues is initiated in more of a hands-on manner by an angel. In other words, the seven final plagues are caused more directly by Elohim executing His judgments through His angels.

Remember that a literal angel will fly through the air first and warn everyone not to take the mark (14:9-11). Nobody will be able to say they did not know!

        The Greek term for “sore” (helkos) indicates a particularly painful and disgusting sore, like a boil oozing pus that is fatal if not healed.

A similar plague happened in Egypt and it will literally happen again (Exod 9:8-11): again, here salt water is turned into blood (Exod 7:17-21). In Rev 8:8-9, the second Trumpet plague, a third of the seas was turned into blood (now everything turns to blood, and all sea life is destroyed).

        The exception with this plague is the water becomes “blood as of a dead man” (not oxygenated – no life in it). This means all salt-water creatures, which take their oxygen from the water in which they swim, die. Blood is always a symbol of life and salvation, and now it becomes a symbol of condemnation and death (Lev 17:11; 1 John 1:7).

All fresh water now turns into blood, leaving the people on the earth nothing to drink, previously it was only a third of the fresh waters (8:10-11); now it is all fresh water in totality.

        Imagine the shock to see ulcers/boils on all who accepted the mark; couple that to only drinking blood (which will not quench your thirst).

        Famine and thirst will increase unbearably, leaving millions dead.

YHWH is praised for justice, men deserve what will happen to them as He gave enough warning, which we will see in the next Bowl plague.

        All they will have to drink is blood – drinking blood is horrible and makes one more susceptible to illness and disease.

The prayers of the slain Believers under the Sacrificial Altar have now been answered (6:9-10).

The inhabitants of planet earth now experience the greatest heat wave in history (Isa 24:4-6).

The earth-dwellers will still not repent, nor giving esteem to YHWH who is causing these plagues – no, they blaspheme Him and refuse all the more to worship Him.

        Those that accepted the mark could not repent even if they wanted to.

        YHWH hardens their hearts like He did with Pharaoh.

In the middle of the seven Bowl judgments is another hidden menorah. It describes the "sun" that scorched men.

Sores, blood, scorching heat, and then darkness on "the seat of the beast" which means Jerusalem and the areas around it (E.U.) (Matt 24:29; Joel 2:1-2; Amos 5:18; Exod 10:21-23).

        No sun for months will cause extremely cold conditions; the nightmare can not be imagined. It goes from one extreme to the other – from scorching heat to freezing darkness.

        The earth-dwellers are in so much pain from the darkness that they gnaw their tongues, hoping that the lesser but more immediate pain of chewing their tongues will distract from their suffering. On a metaphorical level, it may also refer to the throne of satan in men’s souls and the agony of being separated from the light and life of YHWH.

        They will not humble themselves: man's heart will be as hard as stone (Jer 17:9); in spite of all these intensely torturous plagues, they still refuse to repent.

The sixth Trumpet judgment should be recalled in the light of the sixth tipped Bowl. There is a striking similarity (9:13-18).

        Sovereigns/kings pictured as the leaders of the troops. They cross the Euphrates in order to participate in the greatest confrontation ever - the Battle of Armageddon.

        Between the 6th and 7th Seal (Revelation 7 – Seal of 144,000/Believers in Heaven) and 6th and 7th Trumpet (Rev 10 – Angel with the book) judgments, we encountered parenthetical utterances. Now we find another parenthesis between the 6th and 7th Bowl judgments with the sixth angel preparing the way for the kings of the east to bring their armies to Israel.

Three Unclean spirits come out of the satanic trinity.

        "Like frogs" refer to uncleanness – the frogs in Egypt produced an obnoxious stench that filled the land with indescribable odours and filth (Exod 8:14).This unholy trinity controls the evil spirits (as they came out of their mouths), and the spirits will go out to the kings to stir them up for the Battle of Armageddon.

The unclean spirits from satan, Antichrist, and the False Prophet go out (as demons) to the rulers of “the earth and of the whole world” (both human and spiritual); and through miraculous signs, entice them to gather their armies for the battle that will climax the Day of YHWH.

        Unclean spirits will be heavily at work during the Great Tribulation period.

        The word "battle" in Greek is "polemos", which means "a series or campaign of battles". This means the Battle of Armageddon will consist of a series of battles; i.e., from Gog and Magog (Ezek 38 and 39, Dan 11:40) to Armageddon (Joel 3).

This battle is linked with the surprise coming of YHWH (1 Thess 5:2) with the armies of Heaven (19:14) to destroy His enemies and restore His kingdom on Earth (19:15-21; 20:4).

        In Y’shua's day, a one-piece garment was removed at bedtime. It was worn only during waking hours. Elohim tells the final group of Tribulation Believers to watch, for in doing so they will be awake and clothed. The command is to be prepared, lest they be found

naked and ashamed.

Har-Megiddo is the Hebrew for "mountain of Megiddo". This is a reference to the 24km (15-mile) wide battle plain of the Valley of Jezreel in the northern part of Israel where numerous famous battles in Israel’s history took place. The city of Megiddo was located there.

        (NB) This will only be the gathering place; the actual battle will take place outside Jerusalem in the valley of Yehoshaphat.

Some Bibles leave "heaven" out (check your Bible). This is Y’shua's voice, because only Y’shua can judge (John 5:22); meaning, the judgments are complete.

        "It is done!" (this signals the end of this horror). Interestingly, when Y’shua bore the judgment of our sins, He cried, "It is finished" (which is Neik Maer in Hebrew). The same words are used in Rev 21:6 where the present world’s history is closed/completed.

The judgment begins with the usual ominous noises, thunderings, and lightnings and produces the most devastating earthquake ever to occur upon earth (Hag 2:6-7). Islands this time will not be moved out of their places (6:14); they will disappear into the oceans! (See verse 20.)

There are two cities in Revelation called "the great city" (Jerusalem (11:8)) and modern, prophetic Babylon (17:18; 18:10) which are the antitheses of one another. The instance in this verse appears to refer to Jerusalem, because she is distinguished from the cities of the nations – of which Babylon is the prototype.

        Three valleys divide Jerusalem, forming a perfect "Shin"ש letter in Hebrew which means "Shaddai" (Almighty); or when "Shaddai" is taken letter by letter it means "Protector of the door of Israel". The "Shin" is also written on your heart.

        Many scholars say for Elohim to pour out his wrath on Babylon, Babylon city must be rebuilt to make its destruction possible. It is a fact that Saddam Hussein started rebuilding it with an       enormous pace; but personally, I think it is the world’s commerce system. The details of its destruction is explained in the       parenthesis chapter 18.

        The elite cities of the nations – such as New York, Tokyo, London, Johannesburg, etc. also fell.

This indicates radical changes in the topography of the earth. Both the islands and the mountains disappear, leaving perhaps only the level continents. There is a theory that, in the beginning (when the world was first created) the dry land of the earth was one huge continent. Apparently, this cataclysm is possibly in preparation for the restoration of Earth to its original – the Edenic state.

The climax is the raining down from heaven at a speed of 70,000km/h, hailstones weighing from 40 to 54 kilograms.

        A Greek talent weighs 40 kg, the Troy talent 43kg and the Jewish talent 54kg – the weight of a medium-sized lady. This hailstorm will literally pulverize everything. In November 1999, hailstones with a weight of 4kg (±12 medium-sized cold drink tins combined), fell in the European Union (Spain to be exact). It left the country's scientists speechless.

With thousands of ±50kg ice blocks falling on the earth, there will be no hiding place (especially after this devastating earthquake) but humans still blaspheme Elohim, even as they are dying. Who could possibly survive 54kg (100-pound) hailstones – especially after all the other plagues?

TheShinש in Jerusalem

The sign is what is called a "shin" and is derived from the Hebrew word “Shaddai”, which is Elohim’s name. Note that the three valleys, the Hinnom on the left, the Refaiim (Tyropoeon) in the middle and the Kidron on the right hand side of the city form a complete "shin". It means that YHWH’s name is built into this city, His protection is over this city and it will remain there (1 Kings 11:36, 2 Cron 6:6).

Ayin letter – Numerical value 70

Meaning (ayin): Eye; spiritual insight.

Embedded in the Chapter: ‘Ayin’ can mean a literal eye or spiritual insight, a symbol for sight and insight; the spiritual activity which gives one ‘eyes to see’. The 16th letter refers to a deeper quality of sight than mere primary vision. It describes the insight that leads one to true wisdom.

Insight is required for the learning of Scripture; and once again, we find a remarkable resemblance with the ‘eye’ prominent in this chapter – making it clear that there is indeed an alphabetic design guiding the composition of Revelation. Here, Elohim gives us spiritual insight on what was predicted in the ‘nun’ chapter in Revelation 14 as well as the consequences thereof. Elohim warned not to take the mark (14:9-10); and here we see in Rev 16:2 the consequences of taking the mark. Then Y’shua also makes this remarkable statement in verse 15, ‘I come as a thief. blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walks naked, and they see his shame.’ What Y’shua actually is saying is be ready at all times – with this He is giving us deep spiritual insight! In short, Elohimis encouraging the reader to invoke the spiritual wisdom that will result in spiritual understanding.

Not only does ‘ayin’ refer to human insight, it also bespeaks divine insight (or the mind of YHWH). Elohim also warned in chapter 14 that Babylon will be destroyed; this takes place in the 7th Bowl judgment (16:19). There is, however, also reference to the literal ‘eye’ in the ‘ayin’ during the 5th Bowl judgment when the Antichrist’s domain will be full of darkness, and the eye will not be able to see anything. We also notice Elohim says ‘it is done’ (16:17) – Elohim tells us that His wrath is completed, the judgments are complete. the final judgment is the judgment of the wicked nations with the Battle of Armageddon (details in Revelation 19) – oh what spiritual insight!!

Revelation Chapter 17

A Parenthetical Chapter - Mystery Babylon,

the False Religious System Destroyed

Background

This chapter deals with the "false religions" which were either doctrinally or morally wrong (2 Peter 2:1-3; Jude 8-21).

Chapter 17 and 18 are parentheses inserted to give more details about the destruction of modern, prophetic Babylon – the kingdom of satan on Earth (Isaiah 14:4) and explain Rev 14:8 and 16:19. Chapter 17 explains the destruction of the spiritual, religious Babylon – the false religious system (Rev 14:8); and chapter 18 explains the destruction of the material, secular Babylon – the political and economical system (16:19). But, as we will clearly see, the two are inextricably intertwined in one, great, modern one-world-system.

Chapters 17 and 18 are highly symbolic in the form of a riddle; and chapter 17 is one of the most difficult chapters to understand in the Bible.

1 And one of the seven messengers who had the seven bowls came and spoke with me, saying to me, “Come, I shall show you the judgment of the great whore sitting on many waters,

2 with whom the sovereigns of the earth committed whoring, and the inhabitants of the earth were made drunk with the wine of her whoring.”

3 And he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast covered with names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.

4 And the woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, holding in her hand a golden cup filled with abominations and the filthiness of her whoring,

5 and upon her forehead a name written, a secret: BABEL THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF THE WHORES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

6 And I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the set-apart ones, and with the blood of the witnesses of Y’shua. And having seen her, I marvelled – greatly marvelled!

7 And the messenger said to me, “Why did you marvel? Let me explain to you the secret of the woman and of the beast she rides, which has the seven heads and the ten horns.

8 The beast that you saw was, and is not, and is about to come up out of the pit of the deep and goes to destruction. And those dwelling on the earth, whose names are not written in the Book of Life from the foundation of the world, shall marvel when they see the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.

9 Here is the mind having wisdom: The seven heads are seven mountains on which the woman sits.

10 And there are seven sovereigns: five have fallen, and one is, and the other has not yet come. And when he comes, he has to remain a little while.

11 And the beast that was, and is not, is himself also the eighth, and is of the seven, and goes to destruction.

12 And the ten horns which you saw are ten sovereigns who have not yet received a reign, but receive authority as sovereigns with the beast for one hour.

13 They have one mind, and they shall give their power and authority to the beast.

14 They shall fight with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for He is Master of masters and Sovereign of sovereigns. And those with Him are called, and chosen, and trustworthy.”

15 And he said to me, “The waters which you saw, where the whore sits, are peoples, and crowds, and nations, and tongues.

16 And the ten horns which you saw on the beast, these shall hate the whore, and lay her waste and naked, and eat her flesh and burn her with fire.

17 For Elohim did give it into their hearts to do His mind, to be of one mind, and to give their reign to the beast, until the words of Elohim shall be accomplished.

18 And the woman whom you saw is that great city having sovereignty over the sovereigns of the earth.”

This angel is probably the seventh, as it was during the pouring out of his bowl that "great Babel was remembered before Elohim, to give her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath" (16:19). In this chapter and in Chapter 18, the angel is giving Yochanan more details about the identity, characteristics, and destiny of the "great whore". In both Chapters – 17 and 18 (verse 3), Babylon is described as a whore – one who gives herself to others, not because she loves them or is interested in their welfare; but to gain their favours – which ultimately leads to their destruction as well as hers. In this chapter, the emphasis is on her spiritual/religious harlotry; in Chapter 18, the emphasis is on her political/commercial harlotry.

        This great whore or great harlot is the false religious system. Elohim consistently uses such strong terms to emphasise spiritual decay.

        The phrase "many waters" speaks of religious control over humanity, internationally. Proof? Rev 17:15. The Vatican’s name is also the "HolySee". In other words, the Vatican Whore sits on (dominates and controls) the earth-dwellers (see verse 15).

        This worldwide religious system holds both leaders and people within its grasp.

        The "wilderness" in this verse is a picture of the unsaved world whom she entangles.

        "Made drunk with the wine of her whoring" is the close association of kings and nations with this false religious system. It started with Nimrod and his queen Semiramis in ancient Babylon; and is still vividly practiced in Roman Catholism. Her control will be so overwhelming that humanity will be mentally stupefied; couple that with the world’s mass use of drugs (9:21). It must be noted that the whore is supported by and empowered by satan. She is his kingdom on earth (Isaiah 14:4, 12; Rev 12:3).

"Carried me away in the Spirit" means Yochanan saw it in a vision.

        The "woman" is the "harlot", the false religious system.

        Scarlet is red and indicates blood, which pertains to great persecution. An estimated 200 million people have been       martyred because they did not conform to this organized religion.

        The "beast" described here is the religious persecution system leading up to the Antichrist person/system himself. The "beast" in Rev 13:1 was political (this one is religious) – but they are actually inseparable. This beast includes the satanic force/system used by satan that controls the world rulers and that will control the Antichrist/system.

        The 7 heads are 7 empires and the 10 horns are 10 countries/kings that did and will persecute the Jews/Christians. The 10 "horns" that come out of one of the 7 "heads" are 10 kings that will rise to power during the Antichrist/system rule. These 10 kings will come out of the controlling factor of the Roman Catholic Church (Jesuit-controlled Club of Rome), and they will be the ones to destroy the One-World-Church. Proof?  Rev 17:16.

        The heads are "Full of names of blasphemy"; meaning, all 7 empires blasphemed YHWH.

        Note: if you accept the Antichrist to be a physical person, then he will come very religiously under the wings of religion – because the "woman" sits on the "beast". He will submit to the rules of the One-World-Church, but he will eventually destroy the One-World-Church when he declares himself God (2 Thes 2:4; Dan 9:27) and everybody will be forced to submit to him (13:16, 6:4-6) via a One-World-Religion.

The "woman" (the false religious system) indicates four things:

1)     Purple refers to royalty. Imperial Rome bedecked its leaders in such fashionable elegance. From the beginning, they have sought to control the world as well as their parishioners.

2)    Scarlet indicates bloodshed through her persecution.

3)    Gold and precious stones portray richness.

4)    She rides the beast, implying power to control or direct            empires.

        Her attractions – riches, beauty, and intoxicating drink – appeal to the flesh, not to the spirit. The golden cup from the outside looks attractive and acceptable like the true and only way to salvation; but inside it is full of wickedness and filthiness of her spiritual fornication. In the last days and during the Tribulation, members from all denominations will join her (as this will be the only religious body still in existence – the One-World-Church).

        Theory – if you believe in a seven year Tribulation period: This Church will last for 3½  years, during the time when the Antichrist person will be accepted as the Messiah. The False Prophet will control it in the beginning, and later put legislation in place to destroy it. Proof? Rev 13:15, 17:16. Her destruction will start at the midpoint when satan is thrown out of heaven (12:7-9). It is very possible that the False Prophet will come out of the Roman Catholic Church (which is in the domain of the Revived Roman Empire of today, the E.U.) He could be the very next Pope or the Black Pope from the Jesuit Order! Lets read Rev 2:6 again to get more details (also ate food offered to idols – "hot cross buns" Jer 7:18[106]).

The Ruach states, firstly, that no person should be deceived as if it is a secret; but hundreds of millions are – as there are two billion Roman Catholics. Secondly, the Mother Church must have daughters, because she is the "Mother of Whores": they are offspring who either rejected the true teachings of YHWH and who resist the truth because of church tradition. Among them are cultists, apostates, and unconverted professors of all denominations (Matt 7:21; Mark 7:7, 13).

        In this verse, the Vatican (the Whore) is is identified as Babylon; and her identification is a mystery (not obvious); and her real power over the earth-dwellers is spiritual (not physical), which indicates that this is Babylonian spirituality or religion.

        The religion of ancient Babylon was centered on sex rites involving thousands of temple prostitutes. It was the religious duty of every Babylonian woman to serve as a temple prostitute at least once in her life.

        Ishtar (from where Easter Weekend originated from) was called "the mother of [temple] prostitutes". When Israel was worshipping pagan gods, she was referred to as a harlot (Hosea 4:15). The mother whore of Revelation 17 is the the Roman Catholic Church and the apostate Christian Church who follows her doctrine are her daughter whores – but she is much more than that. Babylonian religion was very diverse and included the worship of many gods – not only the Babylonian, but of the surrounding nations. The diverse religion of modern, prophetic Babylon will be centered in Babylon, the city-state (Vatican City), in her nation (Rome) and control her empire (The Club of Rome); but she will ultimately consolidate all the religions of the world into a global religion (One-World-Religion) led by the False Prophet (possibly the Jesuit Black Pope). It may resemble Christianity because it will consist of the worship of the false messiah (Antichrist) and his "father" satan (13:4); but it will also resemble Islam and other religions of the world which anticipate a coming god-man or messiah.

Yochanan saw all the "cunning antics of persecution" of this religious system. This system has killed and persecuted millions of      Believers in Y’shua.

        When Yochanan realised the reason for persecution from the very beginning, he was amazed. This does not mean he admires the one who has so mercilessly destroyed so many. The original Greek is that Yochanan "wonders with a great wonder" (he is mystified). The earth-dwellers also marvel at Antichrist because of his recovery from a fatal wound and the signs and wonders performed in his name (13:3, 13).

        Three separate things are explained: 1) the Woman. 2) the Beast and 3) the Seven Heads and Ten Horns (explained further below).

The beast that is discussed here had to do with three time periods. "Was" (past tense), "is not" (present tense) and "is about" (future tense).

        This satanic prince "was" active in the past but not now (13:2-3). "Is not" refers to his confinement to the bottomless pit (Abyssos) right now. "About to come out" will be released from the Abyssos in the future, assisting to characterize the rise of the Antichrist person/system. (See the explanation in Rev 13:3 of the satanic prince as well as the explanation at the end of this chapter.)

        NB: Only this satanic prince comes out of the bottomless pit (which proves this point); the Antichrist person or Antichrist system does not come out of the bottomless pit. Some scholars feel that because Judas was sent to his own place that his spirit will come back and enter the Antichrist in the same sense that Elijah’s spirit aided Yochanan the Immerser (Acts 1:25; John 6:71).

        The followers of the Antichrist will be amazed (emotionally stirred) at his power.

        "Yet is" refers to the future, he will assist the Antichrist/system during the seven-year Tribulation period.

There are two theories concerning this tremendous text:

        Theory 1: Some scholars teach that the "mountains" are the 7 empires with 7 kings, which satan used as a tool to get his dirty persecution work done through the ages as per Revelation 12.

        Theory 2: The second theory is as follows: The 7 mountains refer to Rome, which will be the final world power block and headquarters of the World Church. Rome is situated on 7 hills: 1. Aventine.2. Caelian.3. Capitoline. 4. Esquiline.5. Palatine.6. Quirinal. 7. Viminal. The world Church, sitting on 7 hills, heading up scores of denominations. She also rides to power on the back of the 10-horned world-divisions of the Club of Rome. In Scripture, mountains also symbolize large areas of political power and dominion. So, the Babylon Whore holds religious/spiritual sway over large realms of the earth – the seven continents and her large administrative areas; i.e., The Club of Rome’s ten global regional areas. It would seem that Rome and its dominating religion (the Roman Catholic Church) is a prototype of modern Babylon.

Again there are two theories:

        Theory 1: As in Rev 12:3 and 17:9. "Five fell"; that is Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Media and Persia and Greece. "One is" (speaking of the Roman Empire with Domitian in Yochanan’s days). "The other is not yet come" is the Antichrist's Revived Roman Empire and is awaiting the Antichrist to make his debut.

        Theory 2: The next theory links up with theory 2 at Rev 17:9. The 7 kings have only to do with the Roman Area. Five had already fallen in Yochanan's days: 1. Julius Ceasar. 2. Tiberius. 3. Caligula. 4. Claudius. 5. Nero. 6. When Yochanan received this vision, Domitian (the sixth) was alive and on the throne. 7. The last one is yet to come; and is, of course, the Antichrist.

        He will "remain a little while" (indicating the last 3½ years). It is possible that theory 2 is the more accurate one, as we have to do with the false religious system here.

        As we can see, all is in place for the first time in history to fulfil the Revelation.

Before we continue, let’s study Rev 13:3 and its theory 3 explanation first (if you follow a seven-year Tribulation period and if the Antichrist is a person). The Antichrist that used the Revived Roman Empire (The E.U. the 7th empire) to rise to power, will be turned against; and he will revive his own empire. This will be when he breaks the seven-year peace pact between the E.U., the Islamic Brotherhood (all Arab countries and Russia included) and Israel. He will fight three of the countries of the E.U.; the rest will give their power to him (Dan 7:8, 24). The 7th empire (the Revived Roman Empire – E.U.) is then pushed aside to make room for his new empire; the 8th one, which is world domination as per the Club of Rome’s strategy with its new rules to enforce Beast worship. (See Revived Grecian Empire at the end of this chapter.) Please note that there are only 7 kings – who is king number 8, then? King number 8 is number 7 resurrected – the very same person (the Antichrist). Note: "is of the seven". The probable reasons for being killed, are:

1)     Because he was accepted as the Messiah by the Jewish and Islamic worlds, and suddenly he (the Messiah) elevates himself to God status (YHWH for the Jews and Allah for the Muslims) – which will be a horrendous blasphemy for them.

2)    Because he breaks the Peace Treaty and declares war against three E.U./Club of Rome areas/ countries. The 10 countries/areas, the kings (the 10 horns – 17:12) who give their powers to the Antichrist, now form the 8th kingdom – and this will be the revived Grecian kingdom with all its characteristics (13:2). This is the kingdom that will now start to      persecute Israel severely which causes Israel to flee to the mountains (12:13-17). The Kings of the North and the South; the Islam world (Russia and the Arabs nations – Dan 11:40;      Ezek 38 and 39), will then attack the Antichrist – whose headquarters will be in Jerusalem.

        "Goes to destruction" means that his final destination will be the Lake of Fire (19:20).

These 10 kings will join in power with the Antichrist and will reign for "one hour" under him, controlling the Club of Rome’s ten areas.

        They will rule for "one hour" (meaning a short period) for the 3½ years Great Tribulation period.

They will willingly submit themselves to him. Even if they want to oppose him, they will not be able to. The Antichrist’s forces will also war against Israel and Judah to remove the name of Y’shua from the earth during the Tribulation.

        This verse is also in reference to 16:14-16 and 19:11-21, when the King of Kings and Lord of Lords returns with the armies of Heaven at "Armageddon" to defeat and destroy "the kings of the earth and of the whole world (who are gathered) to the battle of that great day of YHWH Almighty". They will attempt to fight Y’shua HaMashiach at the Battle of Armageddon, but Y’shua will win victoriously (19:11-16).

        The waters where Babylon sits (17:1) are explained as "peoples" (Greek: laos – tribes or nations), "crowds/multitudes and nations" (Greek: ethnos – ethnic groups), and "tongues" (people who speak various languages); in other words, all the earth-dwellers of the world.

These 10 kings will hate the World Church and will not want to kowtow to its rules anymore, and will:

        1) Cause the church to empty, removing all activities, 2) persecute her severely, 3) burn all buildings down, and 4) allow only Beast worship (full-blown satanism); no other religious system will be allowed.

Elohim planned this aeons ago and His plan is now coming to fruition (Prov 21:1; Isaiah 46:10; Eccl 3:11; Psalm 75:7).

It refers to Vatican City, which controls the leaders of the world. The roots of this "city" started years ago in the literal Babylon city when Nimrod organized the first rebellion against YHWH. The roots of all false religions and pagan worship come out of Babylon (please read "The Two Babylons" by Rev A Hislop). The Vatican will be the World Church and will reign until it is destroyed by the Antichrist.

SPECIAL NOTES:

        Both the E.E.C and World Council of Churches began unity proceedings in 1948 (the exact time the Fig Tree started to blossom, when Israel was declared a nation (Luke 21:29-32)).

Chapter 17 is religious, while chapter 18 is political and    economical. These two powerbrokers exist together simultaneously until the religious system is destroyed

Listed below are various theories for your perusal…

The Beast out of the Bottomless Pit is the Prince of Grecia:

1.      The last visions of Daniel concern the Grecian Empire, its four divisions, and the rise of the Antichrist out of one of them (Dan 7:7-8, 20-25, 11:1-45).

2.     The Antichrist, the earthly head of the 8th kingdom (which is a revival of the 5th kingdom that had fallen before Yochanan’s day – 17:10), will come from the Syrian division of the old Grecian Empire (Dan 8:9, 20-25; 11:36-45). If he comes from the old Grecian Empire and revives it, then it is definite that the spirit out of the abyss is the prince of Grecia of Dan 10:20 – ferocious and conquered in a short space as Alexander the Great.

3.     In Dan 7:23-24, the Antichrist uses one of the 10 kingdoms to overthrow three others (Dan 7:8). This kingdom area is also discussed in Dan 8:9, 20-25. This points to the beast out of the abyss being the prince of Grecia out of the old Grecian area, the Syrian area of today.

4.     The body of the beast of Revelation is like a leopard (13:2); which in Daniel 7:6, symbolizes the old Grecian Empire (proving that the kingdom of Antichrist will be mainly Grecian in character and policy as the Syrian division in Dan 8:9-14, 20-25; 11:21-45). This identifies the beast of the abyss as the prince of Grecia.

5.     In Joel 3:6 with Zech 9:13, we have prophecies of the Grecian Empire in the last days under the Antichrist, proving beyond doubt that the prince of Grecia is the spirit of the abyss. This revival of Greece will be the head healed that was wounded to death (13:3, 12-14). The 8th kingdom will be the Revived Grecian Empire and not the Revived Roman Empire (which is the 7th).

The European Parliament (E.P.) tried to express the soul of the E.P. on a stamp

In 1957, the Roman Catholic Church invited the European leaders to the Vatican in Rome to discuss the means to bring Europe together. A treaty was signed, and the European Community was born (E.C.). The body is called the European Union (E.U.) of today. This body is controlled by the E.P. and they released a stamp (see below) to celebrate their second election. Fritz Wegnet (who designed the stamp) issued a statement to explain the symbolism of the stamp.

Zeus wanted to marry Europe, the daughter of King Agenot of Tirus. He transformed into a bull, kidnapped her and took her to Crete. On arrival, he changed back to a human being again, and Minos their son was born. Minos was the pioneer of the Crecian culture, which is accepted as the culture that initiated the European culture. It sounds very innocent; but in reality, it portrays the ancient Babylonian religious cult.

1.      The bull is Zeus (a Greek god) – the Roman equivalent of this god is Jupiter, the highest god of all. (The bull is the beast in Revelation chapter 17.)

2.     The laurel around the beast symbolizes life and victory. (The same that the Roman Caesars wore on their heads in ancient times – remember, they considered themselves gods who had to be worshipped.)

3.     The beast has human eyes, a sign of intelligence.

4.     Zeus/Jupiter is also associated with Nimrod. According to ancient writings, he and his wife Semiramis were the parents of a prince that had to be sacrificed. They believe the prince came back later as Tammuz. Semiramis as the queen of heaven and her son were then worshipped. (A counterfeit of Miriam and Y’shua.)

5.     Semiramis had various other names as well – like Ishtar, Isis and Venus. The child on the stamp is Cupid; and it is said that he was the son of Venus, the resurrected Nimrod, Tammuz or the Egyptian god Osiris.

6.     The woman holds the horns of the beast – horns in the O.T. symbolize power and authority. (The woman is the harlot – the false religious system, the beast will submit to under the rules of the One World Church in the beginning.)

7.     Tammuz (or Nimrod after his resurrection) is also called Oannes, a dolphin that is a sea god that came out of the Persian Sea and walked across dry ground in the shape of a man. Oannes was responsible for the rich culture of Babylon (he has a second name as well – which is Dagon, the fish god). Dagon was also known amongst the Canaanites, and was the main god of the Philistines. Oannes also has eyes like a human being.

8.     The beast sits on water, symbolizing the religious system that will be over the multitudes of people. There are 7 waves, symbolising the 7 empires or 7 mountains of Rome. The Vatican is called the "Holy See".

9.     Around the E.P. letters is a laurel, and below it the words are written: "Second Election European Parliament", a reason to celebrate.

All this is not coincidence, but inspired by satan himself.

10 Proofs that Mystery Babylon (the Whore) is the Religious System

1.      Playing the whore in symbolic language always refers to religious fornication and idolatry (17:1-4: Isaiah 23:17; 57:3-7; Jer 3:2-9; Ezek 16:1-63; 20:30-32; 23:7-49; Hos 4:12-19; Nahum 3:4. Literal fornication must also be understood in some of these).

2.     Her causing the many nations to commit fornication with her proves that idolatrous religious practices are being referred to, as in passages above.

3.     She is not a political power for she is not classed as one with "the kings of the earth". She only causes the kings and inhabitants of the earth to be drunk with the wine of her fornication (17:2, 4). Since fornication here refers to religious harlotry, then her influence over the nations is through religion.

4.     The beast (which the woman rides) is the 7th kingdom, made up of the many waters or peoples inside the old Roman Empire territory (17:1, 3, 11, 15). Since the beast itself is the kingdom, the woman must be religion, dominating the kingdom until she is destroyed by it (17:12-17).

5.     The attire of the great whore identifies her as a religious system or as a whore committing spiritual fornication, duping political powers by her whoredoms and idolatries (17:4). The purple, scarlet, precious stones, pearls, and golden vessels indicate the wealth of the system (Ezek 23:40-41).

6.     The golden cup in her hand, full of her uncleanness, spiritual fornication, and abominations by which she dupes political powers proves her to be a religious power (Ezek 23:29-31).

7.     Her name, MYSTERY BABYLON, indicates she is not literally Babylon. The word “mystery” identifies her with the religious rites and mysteries of ancient Babylon. According to Hislop’s "The Two Babylons" which quotes 260 sources, the ancient Babylonian cult was started by Nimrod and his queen Semiramis; and spread through all nations. The objects of worship were the Supreme Father, the Incarnate Female (or Queen of Heaven) and her Son. The cult claimed the highest wisdom and the most divine secrets. Besides confession to priests, there were many mysterious rites. Julius Caesar became head of the Roman branch of the Babylonian cult in 63 C.E. Other emperors held this office until 376 C.E. when the emperor Gratian refused it for Biblical reasons, because he saw that Babylonianism was idolatrous. Demasus, bishop of the Christian Church at Rome, was elected to the headship in 376 C.E.; and from here on, Babylonianism and organized Christianity became one. The rites of Babylon were soon introduced into the Christian Church. Heathen temples were restored, beautified, and their rituals encouraged. Worship and veneration of images, saints, relics, private confessions, penances, scourging, pilgrimages; and the sign of the cross, Christmas, Lady Day, Easter, Lent – and other pagan rites and festivals (little by little) became a part of Christian worship.

8.     The name, MOTHER OF HARLOTS, identifies the whore as a religious system (17:5). The harlots refer to many branches which have sprung from her and have become just as apostate as the great whore herself. She is a symbol of apostate religions being linked together to dominate the 10 kings of the Revived Roman Empire (Club of Rome) until Antichrist comes to full power over the 10 kingdoms by the middle of Daniel’s 70th week (17:1, 3, 9-18).

9.     The name, MOTHER OF ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH, identifies her with a religious system fostering and tolerating all the abominations that go with idolatry and spiritual fornication. The word “abominations” is used many times in connection with idolatry and whoredoms associated with pagan worship (Deut 18:9-12; 29:17-18; 32:16-17; 1 Kings 14:24; 2 Kings 16:3-4; 21:2-11; Ezek 16:22-58). The great whore of the future Tribulation will be the mother of all abominations in Elohim’s sight because she will exceed all others in wickedness.

10.  Her drunkenness – being drunk with the blood of the martyrs for Y’shua proves beyond a doubt that she is a religious institution. Only religions have killed martyrs for Y’shua in all ages. Governments have carried out the dictates of leaders in religion, doing the actual killing of Believers because of religion. Although this prophecy speaks of the future drunkenness of mystical Babylon, who among us does not know of the martyrdom of 200,000,000 people in the past because they would not conform to organized religion?

The Beast out of the Bottomless Pit identified

1.      The beast out of the abyss is a satanic angel; and not the human spirit of some dead man (other scholars feel that it could be Judas’s spirit, as discussed in chapter 17).

2.     He (the satanic prince) does not incarnate himself in the human Antichrist or beast out of the sea, but merely uses him as a tool to revive the 5th or Grecian kingdom as the 8th and last kingdom in the times of the Gentiles.

3.     This spirit ruled the old Grecian Empire, the 5th of the 5 kingdoms that had fallen before Yochanan’s day (17:10).

4.     When his kingdom fell, he was confined to the abyss where he remained during the 6th kingdom (the Roman Empire, which was the one in existence in Yochanan’s day) and where he has been ever since.

5.     He will be confined to the abyss until the 10 kingdoms are formed (Club of Rome) and controlled from inside the Roman Empire to make the 7th kingdom of Rev 17:10.

6.     He will then be loosed and use the Antichrist to revive the old Grecian Empire as the 8th kingdom of Rev 17:11. This is what the angel meant when he said the beast was (had existed on earth before Yochanan’s day), and is not (on the earth in Yochanan’s day); and shall ascend out of the abyss and go to perdition (17:8).

7.     Godly or satanic angels have always controlled kingdoms of this world, and wars on earth are lost or won as a result of battles in the heavenlies between good and bad angels.

8.     YHWH plans the rise and fall of certain kingdoms, and satan seeks to keep the prophetic Word from coming to pass. (Isaiah 24:21-23, 25:7; Dan 10:13-21, 11:1, 12:1; Eph. 6:12; Rev 12:7-12, 16:13-16.)

9.     In Dan 10:12-21; 12:1 we have the satanic prince of Persia, the prince of Grecia, Michael, Israel’s prince, and other angelic rulers mentioned.

The 8 Kingdoms and Israel (17:11)

1.      Egypt was the first kingdom to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles – that period of Israel’s history from her beginning as a nation in Egypt to the second Advent of Y’shua (Luke 21:24; Rom 11:25; Rev 11:1-2). The words "Egypt" and "Egyptian" are used 731 times in Scripture and in nearly every case with Israel – even until the Roman Empire days. Egypt was Israel’s bitter enemy (with the exception of a few periods of friendship). Egypt was the place where ancient Israel became a nation and where they were oppressed for 80 years before Moses led them out of bondage (Gen 15:13-14; Gen 37 through Ex 15). She is mentioned many times after this as the oppressor of Israel (1 Kings 14; 2 Kings 17:18, 21:19-26, 23:28-37, 25:25-26; 2 Chron 14:9-12, 16:7-9; Isaiah 30-31; Ezek 29-32). She has oppressed Israel on and off for over 3,750 years. Egypt will be subject to Antichrist in oppressing them again under the 8th kingdom (Dan 8:21-25, 11:40-45). She will never be a great world power again (Ezek 29:14-15); but will serve Elohim (along with Israel) in the eternal kingdom (Isaiah 11:11-16, 19:23-25, 27:12-13; Zech 10:10-11, 14:16-21).

2.     Assyria was the second great empire to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles. Founded by Nimrod (Gen 10:8-12), it was a kingdom inferior to Egypt for 1,300 years. Then Elohim allowed her to chasten Israel (2 Kings 15:16; 17-19: 23-24). The words “Assyria” and “Assyrian” are used 175 times; and nearly always in connection with Israel. She oppressed Israel on and off for about 175 years. Antichrist will be the last Assyrian to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles (Isaiah 10:20-27, 14:25, 31:4-9; Mic 5:5-6). Assyria will be blessed in the eternal kingdom, along with Israel (Isaiah 11:16, 19:23-25).

3.     Babylon was the third empire to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles. It is the first one mentioned in Daniel; and for this reason, many Bible scholars originate the times of the Gentiles with Babylon. But it must be remembered that both Egypt and Assyria persecuted Israel before Babylon and for much longer. Why originate the times of the Gentiles with the third empire to oppress Israel merely because Daniel saw those times from his day forward? He naturally could not predict the oppressions of Israel by Egypt and Assyria, for they were in the past by the time he lived. Nevertheless, didn’t the Gentiles oppress them?. If so, then Egypt and Assyria rightly belong to the times of the Gentiles. Daniel saw from his day forward, while Yochanan saw the whole length of the times of the Gentiles (from Egypt to the Revived Roman Empire); the purpose being to identify the 8th kingdom that will complete the times of the Gentiles. Babylon (as an inferior kingdom) helped Assyria against Israel (2 Kings 17:24-30; 2 Chron 33:11). She was chosen by YHWH to keep Judah captive for 70 years (2 Kings 20:1; Jer 24). Babylon is mentioned in Daniel under the head of gold (Dan 2:37-38) and a lion (Dan 7:4). The word “Babylon” is used 284 times in Scripture, nearly always in connection with Israel. She will have a latter day part in oppressing Israel (Isaiah 13; Jer 50-51).

4.     Media and Persia was the fourth empire to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles. It is the second one in Daniel – as the breast and arms of silver (Dan 2:32, 39), the bear (Dan 7:5), and the ram (Dan 8:20). It is referred to only 58 times in Scripture, but in an important role (2 Kings 17:6; 18:11; Isaiah 13:17; Dan 5, 10:13-21, 11:1-2; Ezra 1:1-8, 4:1-9; Neh 1-13). It will fulfil prophecy in the last days under Antichrist (Ezek 38-39). Media and Persia persecuted Israel on and off for over 100 years.

5.     Greece was the fifth empire to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles and was the third one in Daniel. It is symbolized in Daniel by the belly and thighs of brass (Dan 2:32, 39), as the leopard (Dan 7:6) and as the he-goat (Dan 8:5-9; 20-25). It is only mentioned by name 9 times in Scripture, due to the fact that it existed between the Old and New Testament times. She is mentioned many times in the books of Maccabees in the Apocrypha. Practically all of Dan 8, 11 and 12; Rev 6:1-8; 13:1-18; 17:9-17; 19:19-21 must be understood in connection with Greece which will be revived again as the 8th kingdom. Greece and the Syrian and Egyptian parts of the empire persecuted Israel on and off for over 250 years. The Grecian empire is the fifth head on the beast of Rev 17:9-11, which "was" (before Yochanan), "is not" (in Yochanan’s day), and becomes revived as the 8th and last kingdom to oppress Israel. (See three theories on "the head that was wounded to death and made alive again" (13:3, 12).).

6.     Rome was the sixth empire to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles and the fourth in Daniel. It is symbolized in Daniel as the legs of iron (Dan 2:33, 40), the non-descript beast (Dan 7:7-8, 23-24); and the sixth head on the beast (Rev 17:9-17). Rome oppressed Israel for 200 years and caused them to disperse in 70 C.E. (Dan 9:26-27; Matt 24:1-3; Luke 21:20-24). It is from this territory that the next two kingdoms will arise.

7.     Revived Rome will be the next empire mentioned in Scripture (today’s E.U.) as oppressing Israel in the times of the Gentiles. This kingdom will be made up of 10 kingdoms in the last days. For this reason, it is better we call it the Revived Roman Empire; because 10 separate kingdoms ruled by 10 kings and with 10 separate capitals will be formed globally (see Club of Rome). This is symbolized in Daniel by the 10 toes (Dan 2:40-45) and 10 horns (Dan 7:7-8, 19-24), and by 10 horns in Rev 12:3; 13:1; 17:9-17. Here are ten proofs that the toes and horns are the same:

       The number is the same (Rev 12:3; 13:1; 17:12; Dan 2:40-45, 7:7-27).

       They all exist together and fight Y’shua at Armageddon (Rev 17:14, 19:11-21; Dan 2:34-35, 44-45, 7:8-14, 21-27).

       They all exist after Rome and are a revision of it (Rev 17:12-17; Dan 2:44-45, 7:7-8, 23-24).

       They will all be connected with the same beast at the same time (Rev 17:12-17, 19:19-21; Dan 7:8, 11, 21-27).

       The little horn of Dan 7: 7-8,19-24, and the beast of Rev 17:9-17 are the same and will arise after the 10 kings and from among them (Rev 17:12-17; Dan 7:7-8,23-24).

       They will become subject to the same man at the same time (Rev 13:1-8, 17:12-17; Dan 7:23-24).

       The kingdom of Elohim and Y’shua will be set up in the days of their existence (Rev 17:14, 19:11-21; Dan 2:44-45, 7:7-27).

       They will give their power to the same man for the same length of time (Rev 13:5, 17:8-17; Dan 7:23-25, 12:7).

       The 10 horns are the same as the 7th kingdom of Rev 17:8-17. They succeed the 6th kingdom of Rome and precede the 8th or the Antichrist kingdom (Rev 17:8-17). The 10 toes and 10 horns of Dan 2:40-45, 7:7-8, 23-24 also come out of Rome, succeed Rome and precede the kingdom of the little horn or the Antichrist kingdom. Hence, they must be the same.

       The 10 horns in both books reign before and during the beast or little horn. Their reign before him is different to his reign. Before he comes they are independent; but when he comes to power, they are subjected to him. They control the 7th; he controls the 8th kingdom. Therefore, they must be the same.

8.     Revived Greece will be the second of the future empires to oppress Israel in the times of the Gentiles and the last world power to do so. The Antichrist will come out of the 10 kingdoms and overthrow 3 of them. The others will submit to him; thus forming the 8th kingdom Dan 7:23-24 (some scholars feel that this concerns Antiochus Epiphanes who came out of Syria between 171 and 164 B.C.E. and does not refer to the end times. But understanding Midrashic Eschatology (which is a pattern and ultimate fulfillment), then this makes perfect sense – Rev 17:8-17.) Y’shua at His Second Advent will defeat him. This will end the times of the Gentiles. The kingdom of Y’shua (the 9th) will then be setup after the Battle of Armageddon and last forever.

The Revived Roman Ottoman Empire

Current events are rapidly confirming the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning the rise of the revived Roman/Ottoman Empire and its ruler, the anti-messiah.

The capital of the ancient Roman Empire under Constantine (a type of the anti-messiah) was Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey). The Roman Empire was then divided into the Western Empire with Rome as its capital and the Eastern Empire with its capital still Constantinople. After the destruction of the Western Empire, the Eastern Roman Empire became the Byzantine Empire; which later became the Islamic Ottoman Empire in 1299 C.E. The Ottoman Empire had a long history, finally falling in 1923 C.E. However, Islam, with its goal of establishing a new Caliphate (empire ruled by Sharia/Islamic law) is, by far, the world’s fastest-growing religion; and Muslims are, by far, the fastest-growing religious population group world-wide – literally invading the nations of the world (particularly the Western nations). And Turkey (a Muslim-dominated nation) is considered a "Eurasian" nation because of its location as a land-bridge between Europe and Asia; and its strong economic and political ties with both Eastern and Western nations. So it is not too difficult to see that Turkey (which is also the primary location of the peoples who will come against Israel in the Last Days (Ezekiel 38)) may very well be the location of the capital of the Revived Roman Empire just as it was the location of the capital of the ancient Roman Empire. Is it not interesting that Turkey cut off diplomatic ties with Israel and has sided with other Arabic nations in their determination to destroy Israel?

Also, it is clear from Obadiah’s prophecies (Obadiah 4) vis-à-vis other Bible prophecies (Isaiah 14:13; Dan 8:10; 11:37) that the anti-messiah will be an Arabic Muslim – specifically, a relative of Jacob’s twin brother Esau. The descendants of Abraham’s son and Isaac’s outcast half-brother Ishmael (the Arabs) mirror Israel in many ways; including being descendants of twelve patriarchs (the sons of Ishmael), their belief in one god (Allah) and looking forward to a messiah (the Mahdi (Jesus/Eesa)). And they have always been the rivals of Israel, coveting Israel’s inheritance from YHWH through Abraham (the Promised Land, its capital Jerusalem, and dominion over the world).

When Edom, the nation formed by the descendants of Esau (Ishmael’s nephew) – Judea’s treacherous kinsman-neighbor to the south – was conquered by Nebuchadnezzar (although she remained an identifiable province of Babylon), many of her inhabitants migrated into the surrounding areas – including what is now Saudi Arabia and into Israel. In the absence of the Judeans (who had been carried away into captivity into Babylon), the Edomites were permitted to occupy Jerusalem. But then the Jews were permitted to return to their homeland by Cyrus, King of Persia, in 536 B.C.E. And, in 130 B.C.E., when Jerusalem and Judea were again occupied and controlled by the Jews, the ruler of Judea at that time (John Hyrcanus) forced the Edomites to convert to Judaism. Nominally, they complied but maintained a treacherous presence in Jerusalem and Judea. The Jews remained suspicious of them, calling them "half-Jews". Then, when the Romans subjugated Judea, they made Herod I ("the Great"), an Edomite (Latin: Idumean) "Jew", King of the Jews. And it was Herod the Great who, in his maniacal determination to get rid of the newborn Messiah Y’shua, had all baby boys under the age of two in and around Bethlehem killed.

Get the picture: the "King of the Jews" – a descendant of Israel’s displaced twin brother Esau, in a diabolical frenzy, trying to kill the true King of the Jews. What clearer type of the false messiah could there be?

Then, exactly as prophesied (Jer 49:10 and numerous other passages), the Edomites seem to have disappeared after the destruction of the Temple by the Romans in 70 C.E. Apparently, they were absorbed into the surrounding (now) Arabic/Muslim nations. But, at the End of the Age, one of their descendants will again ascend to the throne of David; claiming to be not only King of the Jews, but Lord of the World.[107]

Peh letter – Numerical value 80

Meaning (peh): Mouth; closed as in פ; open as inף when used at the end of a sentence.

Embedded in the Chapter: Following the 'ayin', with its reference to the eye, we are introduced to the mouth as seen in the next letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit; 'peh' – the Hebrew word for mouth. In fact, this chapter denotes the mouth and speech.

In Revelation 17 we see the Antichrist rise to his full potential. We also see a red beast, full of names of blasphemy (17:3). This is referring to the religious persecution leading up to the Antichrist person himself. The Antichrist will give a command to his 10 kings (with his own mouth) to stop all forms of religions and to burn all churches/religious buidings down (17:16). But, to reveal Messiah to the world involves the mouth (we are to ‘preach’ the Gospel throughout the world). And here in this chapter, the Antichrist is doing all in his power to stop any form of religion (Torah-observant Messianism included).

Revelation Chapter 18

A Parenthetical Chapter - Secular Babylon

the Commercial System Destroyed

Background

Chapter 17 dealt with the religious and spiritual Babylon or "mystery Babylon"; while chapter 18 deals with "Babylon the great" – or better still, the literal "city" with its political, material and commercial activities. In the next twenty-four verses, we shall witness the destruction of "Babylon City" when the horror of the Great Tribulation period comes to a conclusion.

This chapter is a parenthesis, which gives more information on Rev 16:19. It concludes at the end of the seven-year Tribulation period when the 7th Vial/Bowl judgment is poured out.

1 And after this I saw another messenger coming down from the heaven, having great authority, and the earth was lightened from his esteem.

2 And he cried with a mighty voice, saying, “Babel the great is fallen, is fallen, and has become a dwelling place of demons, a haunt for every unclean spirit, and a haunt for every unclean and hated bird,

3 because all the nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her whoring, and the sovereigns of the earth have committed whoring with her, and the merchants of the earth have become rich through the power of her riotous living.”

4 And I heard another voice from the heaven saying, “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.

5 Because her sins have piled up to reach the heaven, and Elohim has remembered her unrighteousnesses.

6 Render to her as she indeed did render, and repay her double according to her works. In the cup which she has mixed, mix for her double.

7 As much as she esteemed herself and lived riotously, so much torture and grief give to her, because in her heart she says, ‘I sit as sovereigness, and I am not a widow, and I do not see mourning at all.’

8 Because of this her plagues shall come in one day: death and mourning and scarcity of food. And she shall be burned up with fire, because YHWH Elohim who judges her is mighty.

9 And the sovereigns of the earth who committed whoring and lived riotously with her shall weep and mourn over her, when they see the smoke of her burning,

10 standing at a distance for fear of her torture, saying, ‘Woe! Woe, the great city Babel, the mighty city, because your judgment has come in one hour!’

11 And the merchants of the earth weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their merchandise any more –

12 merchandise of gold and silver, and precious stone and pearls, and fine linen and purple, and silk and scarlet, and all citron wood, and every object of ivory, and every object of most precious wood and bronze and iron and marble,

13 and cinnamon and incense, and fragrant

oil and frankincense, and wine and oil, and fine flour and wheat, and cattle and sheep, and horses and carriages, and bodies and lives of men.

14 And the fruit that your being longed for has gone from you. And all your riches and splendour are lost to you, and you shall find them no more, not at all.

15 The merchants of these, those who became rich by her, shall stand at a distance for fear of her torture, weeping and mourning,

16 and saying, ‘Woe! Woe, the great city that was dressed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls!

17 ‘For in one hour such great riches was laid waste.’ And every shipmaster, and every passenger, and sailors, and as many as work the sea for their living, stood at a distance,

18 and cried out when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, ‘What is like this great city?’

19 And they threw dust on their heads and cried out, weeping and mourning, and saying, ‘Woe! Woe, the great city, in which all who had ships on the sea became rich by her wealth! For in one hour she was laid waste.’

20 Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you set-apart emissaries and prophets, for Elohim has completely avenged you on her!”

21 And one mighty messenger picked up a stone like a great millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, “With such a rush the great city Babel shall be thrown down, and shall not be found any more at all.

22 And the sound of harpists, and musicians, and flutists, and trumpeters shall not be heard in you any more at all. And no craftsman of any trade shall be found in you any more at all. And the sound of a millstone shall not be heard in you any

more at all.

23 And the light of a lamp shall not shine in you any more at all. And the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you any more at all. For your merchants were the great ones of the earth, for by your drug sorcery all the nations were led astray.

24 And in her was found the blood of prophets and set-apart ones, and of all who were slain on the earth.”

"After these things I saw" indicates a change in perspective. We will see the Babylon of chapter 18 is exactly the same as the Babylon of chapter 17, the only difference is that chapter 18 focuses on the material, economic and political aspects of Babylon; whereas, chapter 17 focuses on the spiritual and religious aspect of Babylon. They are both universal and cannot be separated; they are intimately married, just as was religion and state in ancient Babylon and then later with the founding of the Roman Catholic Church in 325 C.E. In fact, Babylonian spirituality/religion through its city-state (Vatican City), nation (Rome) and empire (Club of Rome) is the main purveyor of modern physical Babylon (world commerce) throughout the world.

        This angel’s appearance lightens the entire globe and he comes with tremendous power. It could be possible that this is a Christophany appearance of Messiah, as Y’shua is the light of this world (John 8:12) and only He can execute judgment (John 5:22).

The same wording, "Babylon the Great", is used here as in 17:5; meaning, chapter 18 just takes up where chapter 17 left off, with the fall (burning) of "that great city", Babylon the Great.

        During the last days – and especially during the Great Tribulation, Babylon will become a chief centre for demonic operations. Remember, satan has full power on earth after he and his fallen angels were cast out of Heaven (12:9-10); and on top of that the Bottomless Pit was also opened to release the demonic hordes of Hell on the Earth (9:1-6). "Hated bird" refers to demonic power (Matt13:4, 19). After Babylon is destroyed by fire, resulting in desolate abandoned conditions, no human can dwell there (of which Vatican City is the seat), but for demons and evil spirits (17:16; Isaiah 13:19-21) it is a natural environment, as conditions in the underworld are the same.

        It will still be satan’s seat and base of operations for his evil spiritual hordes.

The nations, the literal Babylon, the physical world, become involved with the Whore’s spiritual activities (Rev 17).

        The leaders (politicians) and the merchants (businessmen) of the earth will become exceedingly wealthy through trading agreements due to their connection (Illuminati, Bilderbergers, Masonic Lodges, etc.) with the Whore (Vatican City’s Catholicisim).

Warning from Elohim to His people to distance themselves from this Whore’s religious and commercial activities.

An enormous amount of sinning will take place through this                                                 system.

Elohim is going to destroy this city with a vengeance; and here we see YHWH's law of sowing and reaping coming into effect (Job 4:8).

        Literally, this verse should say, "Her theft is to be doubled" which is the punishment according to the Torah (Exod 22:4, 7).

        Babylon will reap what she has sown (double): two separate judgments – the judgment by fire (destroying all natural life) and total physical annihilation (destroying satan’s spiritual base of operations – verse 21).

Babylon is personified as the Queen of all cities (of which the "seat", of course, is Vatican City which controls the world).

        She sees herself as a queen of those nations to whom she is married. This is the title of Ishtar, the chief goddess of Babylon, "Queen of Heaven" (Jer 44:19).

        "I am not a widow" means she is whoring with every form of religion and has entangled herself in each of them.

        "And shall not see mourning at all" actually means, "I do not want to look at the needs of the impoverished" – it is all about getting richer.

        It is possible that what James 5:1-6 predicts will happen here in verses 1-7.

The Babylonian One-World-Monetary-System will be destroyed by a global earthquake where the tectonic plates of all the seven continents will be torn apart and then burnt to nothing in a period of one day.

        The entire world economy will collapse in a moment of time when Elohim sends the most devastating earthquake in history, causing a cataclysmic polar shift! (Isaiah 24:1, 19-23, Isaiah 13:13, Jer 50:46, Psalm 46:1-3).

        Millions of earth-dwellers will be killed instantly; the rest will be left in a horrific state of vast nothingness – no food, shelter, nothing... (Is a Pre-Tribulation rapture a possibility, or not?)

        Immediately after the horrendous earthquake, the Babylonian world-commerce-system will literally burn to the ground all over the planet.

        She will be utterly destroyed, indicated by "one day" in this verse and by "one hour" in verses 10, 17 and 19.

The leaders (politicians) of the world who survived the devastating earthquake will bitterly mourn, because these rulers are kept in luxurious power by Babylon.

        Their source of wealth shall be disintegrated in a moment in time, there will be nothing left and mankind will be left in a state of hopelessness.

        The leaders of the world are all joined by members of the Chamber of Commerce and they will weep when there is a complete collapse of the stock exchange.

        Suddenly, in a short space of time (literally seconds) all wealth is destroyed and money is not worth starting a fire with; this system will be non-existent and every person will be in an extreme survival mode.

All these markets will be non-existing: the various investment portfolios, fabrics and fashion, high-class furniture, sensuousness that satisfies the flesh; all modes of transport, for labour to increase wealth; and for lust and other wicked activities (entertainment). See "Thirty articles of commerce" at the end of this chapter.

        When the entire commerce and entertainment world is destroyed in one hour, the owners will see the devastation and will be in a state of shock and weeping at the same time.

        They will "stand at a distance", hiding themselves in fear for the Whore’s cataclysmic judgment.

The "city" (system) that was controlled by the Vatican was exalted and extremly rich, but became poor in seconds.

Ships will stand offshore on every continent, observing the destruction of the cities taking part of the global commerce Whore.

In biblical times, they threw dust/ash on themselves when they mourned; meaning, the world now weeps over the destruction of the physical Babylon system (which was also the house for the spiritual and religious Babylon system).

        Shipmasters became rich through her wealth.

While the leaders of the world mourn, all Heaven breaks forth in praise. There are three times when Heaven is told to rejoice:

1. When satan is cast out (12:12).

2. When literal Babylon is destroyed.

3. When the marriage of the Lamb has come (19:7).

        Elohim is finally avenging what the world did to His apostles and prophets (Heb 11:35-38).

The angel illustrates the violence with which the system will be destroyed.

        Ancient Babylon’s ruins can still be seen, but the new Babylon’s won’t be. (Read Jer 51: 42, 55, 64)

Everything will be utterly destroyed. There will be no more entertainment – all artisans, mechanics, machinists, etc. will be killed and all production halted.

The light of a lamp shall not shine in her anymore, indicating the destruction of power plants. This is another hidden menorah. From chapter 15 to 21, chapter 18 is in the centre ("the light of her lamp shall shine in you any more").

        "And the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you any more at all" can mean that life due to this wrecked world will be non-existent as no marriage can take place anymore; or a rapture had  taken place before this time as Y’shua and the Bride has been removed before this.

        The closing verses reveal the three main reasons for Elohim's judgment on Babylon.

       "The merchants were the great men of the earth" – The love for wealth and riches.

       "By thy sorceries were all nations deceived" – satanic spiritual power, as in sorcery (witchcraft) is the reason for Babylon’s success as the headquarters of satan’s horde of evil spirit-beings in dominating the world religiously, politically, and commercially. It is revealing that the Greek word translated "sorcery" in this verse is pharmakeia, from which the English word "pharmacy" is derived. The occult is heavily involved in drug use. Prescribed drugs, drugs in vaccinations, drugs in our food, and illegal drugs are the main means for opening the doors of our souls to evil Babylonian spiritual influences.

       "In her was found the blood of the prophets" – her hatred, abuse and persecution of the people of YHWH.

Some Scholars believe that America and Babylon are one and the same, based on Isaiah 18:1-2

1.      "A latter-day nation"  (resembles America).

2.     "Has the insignia of wings"  (similar to the national emblem, the bald phoenix bird).

3.     "Is a land beyond the sea from Israel"  (America is far from Israel).

4.     "Is scattered and peeled"  (meaning it is widely–spread).

5.     "Is meted out"  (stretches out by acres and kilometers).

6.     "Is a land whose rivers are spoiled"  (meaning, polluted).

Also read Jeremiah 50 and 51...

7.     She is a nation of "mingled people" (Jer 50:37).

8.     She is a nation whose "mother shall be sore confounded" and who coexists with the "mother" at the hour of her decline (Jer 50:12).

9.     She "dwells on many waters" (Jer 51:13).

10.  Her wealth plagues the nations of the earth to the point of insane jealousy (Jer 51:7).

11.   Her space exploits are so utterly fantastic that she tries to "mount to heaven" (Jer 51:53).

12.  She exists when Israel is back in her land.

Vatican City with her Club of Rome represents Babylon as a universal global city; and America is only part of this global system. Others believe that the old Babylon city in Iraq (which Saddam Hussein started to rebuild) is the city which will be destroyed in chapter 18. Whichever way you believe, it is going to be a physical system/city…

Reasons why Babylon Chapter 18 is something Physical

1.           Literal Babylon is definitely the subject of Rev 16:17-21 and Rev 18:1-24.

2.          The fact that the Great Whore is called mystery Babylon proves a connection with literal Babylon (Rev 17:5).

3.          Literal Babylon is the site of the first great rebellion against YHWH after the flood of Noah (Gen 11); and the new headquarters, Vatican City, will be the site of the last great rebellion (Rev 14:8, 16:17-21, 18:1-24).

4.          Literal Babylon is always associated with demonic religions and idolatry in Scripture (Isaiah 21:9, 47:9-10; Rev 18:2-3,23).

5.          Many prophecies concerning literal Babylon in both Covenants are yet unfulfilled (Isaiah 13:1-22, 14:1-27, 43:14, 47:1-15, 48:20; Jer 50-51; Zech 5:5-11; Rev 14:8, 16:17-21, 18:1-24).

6.          Of all the empires taking part in the time of the Gentiles – Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, Rome, Revived Rome and Revived Greece – the capital city of only one (Babylon) is mentioned in prophecy with a latter-day fulfilment. Memphis, Ninevah, Shushan, Rome, etc. are completely ignored in prophecy; while the capital city, Babylon is mentioned repeatedly.

7.          Never has it been necessary to re-identify any city named in prophecy. Predictions in Scripture about Sodom, Gomorrah, Ninevah, Tyre, Sidon and others have been fulfilled regarding the cities known by the names referred to in the various passages. Why should Babylon be an exception? Rome is Babylon: Catholic apologist Karl Keating admits that Rome has long been known as Babylon. Keating claims that Peter's statement, "The church here in Babylon ... sends you her greeting" (from I Peter 5:13) proves that Peter was writing from Rome. He explains further:  "Babylon is a code word for Rome. It is used that way six times in the last book of the Bible [four of the six are in chapters 17 and 18 and in extrabiblical works such as Sibylling Oracles (5, 159f.), the Apocalypse of Baruch (ii, 1), and 4 Esdras (3:1). Eusebius Pamphilius, writing about 303, noted that "it is said that Peter's first epistle... was composed at Rome itself; and that he himself indicates this, referring to the city figuratively as Babylon." Karl Keating, Catholicism and Fundamentalism: The Attack on "Romanism" by "Bible Christians" (Ignatius Press, 1988), p. 200.

8.          Literal Babylon is the only city called the lady of kingdoms (Isaiah 47:5,7).

9.          Babylon is the only city in the last days that will be the headquarters for every demon and unclean spirit (Rev 18:2).

10.        Babylon is the only city in the last days to be the centre of sorceries and enchantments, etc. (Rev 18:23; Isaiah 47:9-13).

11.        Babylon is the only city singled out as the object of YHWH’s wrath and plagues (Rev 16:19, 18:4,6). Elohim never leaves us in doubt as to the true meaning of His revelation of events to come.

12.       Babylon is the only city YHWH commands His people to come out of in the last days (Rev 18:4; Jer 50:4-9, 51:4-8,45).

13.        Babylon is the only city named which is to be judged in the last days for martyrdoms (Rev 18:24).

16 Contrasts between the Two Babylons

1.           Mystery Babylon of Rev 17 is symbolic; literal Babylon of Rev 16:17-21, 18:1-24 is not.

2.          One is a mystery (Rev 17:7); the other is not (Rev 16:19, 18:1-24).

3.          Everything in Rev 17 is explained because it is not clear; all is so clear that nothing needs to be explained in Rev 16:19, 18:1-24.

4.          Yochanan wondered at one (Rev 17:6), but not at the other (Rev 18:1-24).

5.          One rides the beast (Rev 17:3-7); the other does not (Rev 18:1-24).

6.          One angel/man promises to tell Yochanan all about mystery Babylon (Rev 17:7); several speak of literal Babylon (Rev 18:1-20).

7.          One is called "the woman" the "great whore", etc. The other is not.

8.          Names are written on one (Rev 17:5). This is not true of the other.

9.          Mystery Babylon was something new to Yochanan (Rev 17:1-7); literal Babylon was not.

10.        One is not mentioned by the O.T. prophets; the other (literal Babylon) is mentioned many times.

11.        One makes herself rich by duping men (Rev 17:4); literal Babylon makes others rich (Rev 18:3, 9-19).

12.       One is destroyed by the Antichrist's men (Rev 17:12-17); the other by Elohim (Rev 18:5-20).

13.        Men rejoice over the destruction of one (Rev 17:16-17): they lament the destruction of the other – literal Babylon (Rev 18:9-19).

14.       YHWH puts it into the hearts of men to destroy one (Rev 17:15-17); not the other.

15.       Men could not destroy mystery Babylon in one hour, as is true of literal Babylon (Rev 18:8, 10, 19).

16.        Thirty (30) articles of commerce are mentioned in literal Babylon (Rev 18:11-14); none are mentioned in mystery Babylon.

FACTS ABOUT THE LITERAL BABYLON

Seven Similarities of the Two Babylons:

1.      Both commit fornication with kings and nations (Rev 17:2, 18:3-14).

2.     Both shed blood of Believers (Rev 17:6, 18:24).

3.     Both have cups of sin (Rev 17:4, 18:6).

4.     Both are called a city, spiritual and literal (Rev 17:18, 18:10-21).

5.     Both are made desolate (Rev 17:16, 18:19).

6.     Both are called "Babylon the great" (Rev 17:5 with 14:8, 16:19, 18:2).

7.     Both are clothed in scarlet and purple and decked with precious stones (Rev 17:4, 18:16).

Eight Causes of the Doom of Babylon

1.           Pride (Isaiah 13:19; 14:4; Jer 50:29-34; Rev 18:7-8).

2.          Oppression of Israel (Isaiah 13:1, 14:2-22; Jer 51:24-25; Rev 18:24).

3.          Pleasures, sins, and luxuries (Isaiah 47:8-11; Rev 18:3-19).

4.          Idol worship (Jer 50:2, 51:47; Rev 9:20-21, 13:14, 14:9-11, 16:2).

5.          Fornication (Rev 14:8, 18:3-9).

6.          Spiritism (Rev 18:2).

7.          Sorceries (Isaiah 47:12-13; Rev 18:23).

8.          Martyrdom of Believers (Rev 18:6,24).

Time of the Destruction of Babylon

1.           In the day of Israel’s final restoration (Rev 16:17-20; Isaiah 13:6-13, 14:1-7; Jer 50:4-35).

2.          In the day of YHWH (Rev 16:19; 18:1-24; Isaiah 13:6-13).

3.          At the end of the Great Tribulation (Rev 16:17-21, 18:1-24).

4.          Under the seventh Bowl (Rev 16:17-21).

5.          When the planets are affected (Rev 16:17-21; Matt 24:29-31; Isaiah 13:10-11).

6.          When the world is punished for its sins (Rev 18:1-24; Isaiah 13:11).

7.          When Israel is given rule over her oppressors (Isaiah 14:1-4).

8.          When Israel sings her triumph song (Isaiah 14:3-17).

9.          At the Second Advent (Rev 16:17-21, 18:1-19; Isaiah 13:1-13, 14:5, 25-27).

10.        At the beginning of the Millennium (Rev 16:17-21, 18:1-20,10).

How Babylon will be Destroyed

1.           By an earthquake (Rev 16:17-21).

2.          By a supernatural destruction (Rev 16:17-21, 18:8, 10, 16, 19, 21; Isa 13:6-13; Jer 50:20, 40, 51:8).

3.          Suddenly in one hour (Rev 18:8-19; Isaiah 13:19; Jer 50:40, 51:8).

4.          By fire from heaven (Rev 18:8-18; Isaiah 13:19; Jer 50:40).

5.          With violence (Rev 18:21).

6.          By the earth swallowing her (Rev 18:21; Jer 51:62-64).

7.          By YHWH (Rev 18:8, 20), as He destroyed Sodom (Isaiah 13:19; Jer 50:40).

The Extent of Babylon’s Destruction

1.           Will never be inhabited again (Isaiah 13:20; Jer 50:39-40, 51:29, 37,43).

2.          Arabs and shepherds will never dwell there afterwards (Isaiah 13:20).

3.          Totally (Rev 18:21; Isaiah. 13:9-22; Jer 50:3-40, 51:26-43).

4.          Never to be found again (Rev 18:21).

5.          Her site to be one of the openings of hell (Rev 19:3; Isaiah 14:9-17, 66:22-24).

6.          Desert creatures will dwell on the edges of this hell hole (Isaiah 13:21-22).

7.          Men will be astonished at such destruction (Jer 50:13).

Interesting Facts

1.           Not one of the above passages has yet literally been fulfilled, so they must refer to a future prosperity and destruction of Babylon.

2.          That a literal city is referred to (as many feel), is proved by its predicted destruction along with the cities of the nations (Rev 16:19).

3.          In N.T. times Babylon (Rome) was still a city with a Assembly (1 Pet 5:13).

4.          Since then it has not been destroyed as required in the above references.

Thirty (30) Articles of Commerce, Proving Babylon City to be a Great Commercial Centre

1. Gold.                            9.   Wheat.              17. Precious stones.              25. Cinnamon.

2. Silver.              10. Cattle.              18. Fine linen.                            26. Ointments.

3. Pearls.              11. Sheep.              19. Thyme wood.              27. Frankincense.

4. Purple.              12. Horses.              20. Vessels of ivory.              28. Dainty things.

5. Scarlet.              13. Chariots.              21. Vessels of wood.              29. Goodly things.

6. Odours.              14. Slaves.              22. Vessels of brass.              30. Fine flour.

7. Wine.              15. Fruits.              23. Vessels of iron.

8. Oil.                            16. Silk.                            24. Vessels of marble.

Scripture on the Rebuilding of Babylon (Rome)

Short background: The Roman Catholic Church was birthed in 325 C.E. In 387 C.E., Rome (Babylon) was sacked and burned by the Senones coming from eastern Italy and led by Brennus, who had successfully defeated the Roman army at the Battle of the Allia in Etruria. The Senones marched 130 kilometres (81 miles) to Rome without harming the surrounding countryside; once sacked, the Senones withdrew from Rome (Babylon).

1.           Babylon as a literal city is mentioned in the fulfilment of many things (Rev 14:8, 16:19, 18:1-24).

2.          Zechariah predicted the rebuilding of Babylon (Zech 5:5-11)

3.          Babylon must again be a great commercial centre (Rev 18:3-10)

4.          Babylon must again be a great satanic/demonic centre (Rev 18:2-10,23-24)

5.          Her sorceries will deceive all nations (Rev 18:23; 2 Thes 2:10)

6.          Orders for the martyrdom of Believers will go out from Babylon (Rev 18:24)

7.          Babylon will be destroyed at the end of this age (Rev 16:19, 18:1-24; Isaiah 13:19; Jer 50:40)

Tzadeh letter – Numerical value 90

Meaning (tzadeh): righteous; kneeling as inצ and standing as inץ when used at the end of a word.

Embedded in the Chapter: In this chapter Elohim gives a solemn command to His righteous people to come out of Babylon (18:4). The reason to come out of Babylon is because Elohim is about to destroy her (18:8, 21-24).

The righteous were told to rejoice over her (18:20), because the blood of the righteous was found in her – Babylon will kill many Believers (18:24).

The Hebrew word for 'righteous' is 'tzaddik' as in Isaiah 57:1 – "The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil."  The Hebrew word used for 'perish' is 'ovad' which literally means 'to disappear'. Among some 15 Hebrew words used for 'perish', this is the only one that does not have a bloody connotation. The Hebrew term translated 'taken away' helps to explain the situation. It is the Hebrew word 'asaph', meaning 'to gather up into a place of safety' (a rapture? You decide).

The letter tzadeh is one of the most important letters for the Believer. In its graphic design, the letter צ tzadeh is said to form a man kneeling in prayer with his hands upraised towards YHWH. Thus, it carries for us the important exhortation to be men and women of intercessory prayer.

Revelation 18 is definitely a tzadeh chapter. It shows us how YHWH views the righteous and the wicked. It illustrates the destruction of Babylon, which marks a major step in the establishment of righteousness in this world.

Revelation Chapter 19

The Revelation of Y’shua Hamashiach

Background

Verses 1 – 7 constitute heavenly worship. The Book of Revelation portrays worship in heaven as no other book. This should be a lesson to the Child of Yah. This chapter deals with the return of the Lord Y’shua HaMashiach (which is the chief theme of this book), the Battle of Armageddon with the Antichrist and False Prophet's final destination during the Millennial reign of Messiah and thereafter.

This chapter will also prove to you that the Second Advent will not be a spiritual coming (Zech 14; Matt 24:29-31; 2 Thes 1:6-10). The Battle of Armageddon will be the greatest and fiercest battle of all battles.

1 And after this I heard a loud voice of a great crowd in the heaven, saying, “Halleluyah! Deliverance and esteem and respect and power to YHWH our Elohim!

2 Because true and righteous are His judgments, because He has judged the great whore who corrupted the earth with her whoring. And He has avenged on her the blood of His servants shed by her.”

3 And a second time they said, “Halleluyah! And her smoke rises up forever and ever!”

4 And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshipped Elohim who sat on the throne, saying, “Amen! Halleluyah!”

5 And a voice came from the throne, saying, “Praise our Elohim, all you His servants and those who fear Him, both small and great!”

6 And I heard as the voice of a great crowd, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunders, saying, “Halleluyah, for YHWH El Shaddai reigns!

7 Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him praise, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife prepared herself.”

8 And to her it was given to be dressed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteousnesses of the set-apart ones.

9 And he said to me, “Write, ‘Blessed are those who have been called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’” And he said to me, “These are the true words of Elohim.”

10 And I fell at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “See, do not do it! I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers who possess the witness of Y’shua. Worship Elohim! For the witness of Y’shua is the spirit of prophecy.”

11 And I saw the heaven opened, and there was a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Trustworthy and True, and in righteousness He judges and fights.

12 And His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns, having a Name that had been written, which no one had perceived except Himself

13 and having been dressed in a robe dipped in blood – and His Name is called:

The Word of YHWH.

14 And the armies in the heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.

15 And out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations. And He shall shepherd them with a rod of iron. And He treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of El Shaddai.

16 And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written: SOVEREIGN OF SOVEREIGNS AND MASTER OF MASTERS.

17 And I saw one messenger standing in the sun, and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the birds that fly in mid-heaven, “Come and gather together for the supper of the great Elohim,

18 to eat the flesh of sovereigns, and the flesh of commanders, and the flesh of strong ones, and the flesh of horses and of those who sit on them, and the flesh of all people, free and slave, both small and great.”

19 And I saw the beast, and the sovereigns of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to fight Him who sat on the horse and His army.

20 And the beast was seized, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he led astray those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshipped his image. The two were thrown alive into the lake of fire burning with sulphur.

21 And the rest were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh.

Reveails things that must take place in heaven after the destruction of Spiritual and Physical Babylon immediately preceding the Second Coming of Y’shua; in other words, it is another major shift in focus: from Earth and the annihilation of Babylon, to Heaven.

        Triumphant shouts of victory – "Alleluia", a Hebrew word meaning "praise YHWH" (Hallelu-YAH). Chapter 19 is the only place in the Brit Chadassah (N.T.) where it is found – and it is mentioned four times in the next six verses.

        The celebration consists of praising and worshiping YHWH for ridding Earth of Babylon, avenging the murders of YHWH’s People, and for taking back His reign over Earth

Elohim’s judgments are fair; and He gave His only Son so that man can be saved, yet man still rejects Him and tramples on His offer.

        Elohim destroyed the entire satanic Babylonian system (Rev 17 & 18) and who persecutes those who refuse the Beast’s mark, name and number (13:15, 20:4); now Elohim avenges Himself on her.

        The first group rejoices because they did not follow Lucifer.

        "They" are those that were beheaded by the Antichrist during the Great Tribulation because they refused to worship him (20:4).

The second and the third group fall and worship Elohim because He has destroyed Babylon.

        The Cherubim worship YHWH because they are eternally secure; whereas, the fallen angels are forever damned.

A voice came out of the throne commanding worship to Elohim – no one is exempt.

All heaven joins together, which sounds like awesome thunder when they say "Praise YaH, Adonai YHWH Shaddai reigns".

        This is proof that the Rapture happened before this event as there are multitutes in Heaven.

The marriage takes place in heaven, not on earth. Proof? The Greek word translated "is come" is written in Greek "aorist" tense, signifying an act that was completed in the past and needs no other action or limitation.

        This indicates that the marriage will be consummated at this point and will precede the Second Advent of Y’shua.

        To be part of this wedding, you have to comply with the following: 1 Peter 1:16 and Heb 12:14.

        The Bride, His Wife – means the redeemed Believers, the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel which YHWH divorced and died for (Matt 15:24). Not Yahudah as He never divorced her (Jeremiah 3).

        Some scholars say the Bride includes the New Jerusalem city and use Rev 21:9-10 as proof; but of course, this is an incorrect understanding (see the explanation at 21:9-10).

This is what your wedding gown will look like.

Notice that the Bride of the Messiah is given garments of fine linen (righteousness), but she has put them on herself. Again, true life in the Messiah is an active rather than a passive religion in which we must choose, by His grace, to "put on [the Messiah] …our righteousness" (Rom 13:14; Jer 23:6).

Not Y’shua, but one of the fellow servants. Proof? The very next verse.

        You will be blessed if you endure to the end (Matt 24:13) and complete the race (1 Cor 9:24).

        "Marriage supper" indicates that a wedding reception feast will be included.

        Please note that the Bride and the Bridegroom are never guests. The Bride is all the Believers from Shavuot (Pentecost – outpouring of YHWH’s Ruach) until Rosh HaShannah (Feast of Trumpets – the Rapture). They are the ones for whom the ceremony is performed. Then who are the guests? The guests are the O.T. Believers, Y’shua's disciples; and possibly the angels (based on Scripture in John 3:29). Yochanan (who wrote the Revelation) is speaking here of himself. "He that hath the bride (us) is the bridegroom (Y’shua): but the friend (Yochanan himself, who is a guest) of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him (not part of but present), rejoiceth (Yochanan himself) greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled". Yochanan is ecstatic because he will also be present. What is interesting is that there are always two witnesses present at a Jewish wedding to sign the register. Yochanan will very possibly be the one; the other one is unknown.

        The Believers who accepted Y’shua as Moshiach and kept His Torah covenant are called "blessed!" Read Rev 22:14-15 for understanding.

The sentence structure here is a little confusing. The angel is telling Yochanan that he is a fellow servant of YHWH and the witness of Y’shua and not to worship him (the angel), but Elohim.

        Yochanan fell at the feet of the fellow servant and was firmly told not to do it again. Only YHWH may be worshipped (which includes Y’shua (John 1:18, 10:30)).

        If there were any part of this Book that Yochanan would like to omit, this would be the verse. This proves that YHWH wrote the Bible – for man would have omitted his mistakes (Rom 3:13).

        Watch out for any ministry that honours angels, including the so-called angel Moroni of Mormonism (Col 2:18).

        This fellow servant was a witness of Y’shua HaMashiach.

        The witness of Y’shua is the spirit of prophecy, which is the Ruach HaKodesh (YHWH’s Spirit). Prophecies in the O.T. (which were inspired by the Ruach) spoke of the First and Second Comings of Y’shua.

This is the second time Heaven opens. This is it – this is the long awaited "Revelation"!!! This is the moment when Y’shua reveals Himself to the inhabitants of the earth. This scene is also in Rev 11:15, 14:14-19 & 16:15.

        Y’shua Himself said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6, 16-17).

        Y’shua left the earth as the Lamb, slain and with dust on His feet – Moshiach Ben Joseph (Messiah Son of Joseph, the Suffering Messiah); but He comes back as the Lion out of the Tribe of Yuhudah, victorious and mighty on His white horse – Moshiach Ben David (Messiah Son of David, the Conquering Messiah).

        When this takes place, it will be the fulfilment of "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matt 6:9) in the Avinu, the "Our Father" prayer. Also, the fulfilment of Dan 2:34 "…a stone was cut out without hands…" in reference to Y’shua, who will destroy the 10 toes of the Roman Empire (Club of Rome).

Meaning that His eyes will be piercing and probing, ready to pour out His wrath on the wicked (1:14).

        Crowns that point to royalty.

        The first of the four names of Y’shua HaMashiach, "the Covenant name of Y’shua" (2:18). Before we continue, read about the "Tallit" after verse 21.

        Messiah, Son of YHWH the Father, Lamb of YHWH, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father, El Shaddai and many others are descriptive titles; but He has a mysterious, wonderful name that no one on Earth knows (Judges 13:18-22). The children of Israel believed that if YHWH’s secret Name was spoken, the person who spoke that Name would die; because the full essence of YHWH (which no one can bear to comprehend) is expressed in His Name.

Yochanan was the only N.T. writer who called Y’shua the "Word of YHWH" (John 1:1,14). This is the second Name of Yah in the "Tallit".

        For a full explanation why Y’shua’s robe will be dipped in blood, please see, "What is the "Tallit" and Why is it so Important?" further below.

The armies of Heaven include both the redeemed Believers and angels (Matt 13:41; 16:27; Mark 8:38; 2 Thess 1:7; Rev 15:6; 17:14; 19;8) following the King of Kings to Earth. Millions upon millions of redeemed and resurrected Believers (with the host of all the angels) follow Y’shua on white horses.

        Coming back to see what Y’shua will do when He executes judgment upon the ungodly (Jude 15).

        Your wedding gown – fine linen, white and clean.

He comes back to destroy the ungodly nations with His mouth (Heb 4:12). There is incredible power in the Word of YHWH because He is the Word. He spoke the cosmos into existence (Psalm 33:6; Heb 11:3). His Word is incisive and powerful enough to divide soul and spirit and accurately discern the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb 4:12). And now, all that He has to do is to speak and His enemies will be utterly destroyed.

        He comes to smite the nations (they are the "goat nations", those who fought against Israel) as in Matt 25:31-36.

        "Shepherd them" refers to the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel.

        "Rod of iron" means firm; not tyrannical.

        The winepress is the Valley of Yehoshaphat. Read Joel 3:1-2, 11-17; see how it compares with Rev 14:14-20 and Matt 25:31-46 – this is the time when the nations will be judged (Micah 5:3).

On Y’shua's "Tallit", as His "Tallit" that hangs on His thigh.

        SOVEREIGN OF SOVEREIGNS is the third name of YHWH in the "Tallit".

        MASTER OF MASTERS is the fourth name of YHWH in the "Tallit”.

Some scholars feel that this is the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, and the supper occurs on earth. The author feel that the Marriage Supper will be very special, something beautiful and in Heaven.

        It is possible that YHWH wants to portray the contrast between the good and the bad here and symbolizes the battle as a "supper".

        The birds of heaven will feast on their flesh (Matt 24:28; Luke 17:37). Flesh-eating birds are currently increasing at an unnatural tempo in Israel. Notice that this is practically a quote from Ezek 39:17. The end verses of Ezek 39 deal with the Battle of Armageddon, making it the same war (the commentary on 16:16).

In context, it talks about people here (meaning, the "beast" must be the Antichrist person).

        The armies that first fought against Israel, now turn and fight against Y’shua and His heavenly armies. Satan has always tried to destroy Israel (because he knows Y’shua is coming back for them to honour His covenant with them); thus, he tries to escape his punishment and rule over the earth.

        With the Rapture, Y’shua comes for His Bride. With the Second Advent, He comes with His Bride.

The Antichrist and False Prophet will be killed in the battle at Armageddon (Dan 7:11; 2 Thes 2:8-9; Isaiah 11:4). Their bodies will be resurrected and cast alive into eternal hell ("Gehenna"), the Lake of Fire (Rev 20:10; Dan 7:11, 8:25, 11:45). Question yourself: if the Beast/Antichrist is only a system, can a system be be cast into the Lake of Fire?

The final battle will last only one day (Zech 14:7). The battle has ended. The Battle of Armageddon concludes the Tribulation period and starts the Millennium. Study step by step the greatest confrontation ever (the Battle of Armageddon) further below.

What is the "Tallit" and Why is it so Important?

The prayer shawl (in Hebrew called the "Tallit") is a fulfilment of the Torah commandment described in Num 15:37-41. In this section, YHWH commands us to attach fringes ("tzitzityot") to the corners of garments. As a result, this is why some wear a four-cornered garment – in order to fulfil the expressed Divine Desire. (It can be seen as what Christians wear around their wrists, "What would Jesus do?"; only that this is the true Biblical version.)

These strings symbolize connection with YHWH and serve as a reminder of the Torah instructions in general. When one adds the Hebrew numerical equivalent of the word "tzitzit" (fringes), which is 600, and the number 5 (for the number of knots on each fringe), plus the 8 strings in each tzitzit, one arrives at the number 613 – which corresponds to the number of Torah teachings mentioned in the Old Covenant (the positive and negative instructions).

Numeric values of the Hebrew letters associated with a tzitzit:

This actually explains the continuation of the verse, which states that when one sees the fringes, one is reminded of the teachings. Believers do not view the instructions as a mechanical, ritualistic formula that ensures the "world to come" (to live under the Law to get to heaven); but rather as an exposition of YHWH’s Divine Will – and because they love Him, they do it out of love (John 14:15). Just as with any loved one who clearly expresses his or her desire, we attempt to fulfil that will in the most complete of ways; we view the fulfilment of Elohim’s will as our way of showing our love for Him. Rather than the Torah hindering spiritual closeness, it actually prepares the groundwork for it. The wrapping of us in the tallit with the tzitziyot (prayer shawl with fringes) is actually the act of wrapping ourselves in the will of YHWH.

If one counts the number of times the fringe is wrapped around, one comes up with the number 26 – which is the numerical equivalent of the name of God "YHWH"; specifically the one related to the Divine attribute of mercy that one wraps oneself in Yah’s mercy. The fringes are wrapped around 26 plus 13 times. The number 13 is equivalent to the word "echad" (or "one"). The tzitzit becomes the declarative statement, "YHWH echad" (YHWH is one)! This refers to the "SHEMA" which every Believer repeats daily on numerous occasions – "Hear, O Israel: YHWH our Elohim is one YHWH" (Deut 6:4), just as Y’shua said in the New Covenant "I and the Father is one" (John 10:30, 38, 14:7, 9, 11). Yes, Y’shua is also YHWH clothed in flesh!

The verses in Num 15:37-41 also relate the need for a blue "tchelet" string to be used as part of the fringes. The blue dye came from a mollusk and was also used in the priestly garments. After the destruction of the Temple, the Romans banned the use of the dye, as it was the colour of royalty. Over the years, the secret of the dye was lost; and people took to replacing blue stripes on the body of the shawl itself with black ones (symbolizing the lack of clarity as to which shade of blue the fringe was). A Jewish biologist discovered the blue dye in a shellfish in the Mediterranean Sea in 1984. If you study the prophetic Psalms, you will find that the Tabernacles are blessed in Psalm 84, which plays out in 1984 (Psalms is the 19th Book in the Bible). The Hebrew for Tabernacle ("Mishkan") is used here in the plural sense. This refers to all the divisions in the Temple/Tabernacle where YHWH was worshipped. For the first time since 70 C.E., the tzitzityot of the tallit can be dyed blue again – a miracle in itself. This is part of Elohim's divine plan to rebuild the Third Temple very soon, as the Jews will need the blue dye for the Temple priestly garments.

They say, "The blue resembles the sea, and the sea resembles the Heavens, and the Heavens resemble the Throne of Glory." Being covered in the prayer shawl is like being enveloped in the "Shekinah" (the Divine Presence), and affords one that special place in which to be alone with YHWH. The Blessing said while wrapping oneself in the tallit: "Blessed Art Thou YHWH, Elohim, King of the Universe, Who has made us Holy with His    commandments and Who Has Commanded us to wrap ourselves in the fringes".

“Baruch ati Adonai, eloheiynu melech ha-olam, asher kidishianu be-mitsvotav, vetsivanu al mitsvat tsitzit.”

The Four Corner Fringes are also Longer than the Rest and Represent the Four Names of Elohim:

It is also the Jewish custom to be buried with his "tallit" around his head. If a person was murdered, he must be buried in his bloody clothes. The reason is the Jews believe that on resurrection day, the Shekinah of YHWH will enter the temple of the person (the area between the ears) and resurrect the body. The resurrected person will then use his bloody clothes as evidence against the person who murdered him. That is why Y’shua, the Jew, will return with His bloodied prayer shawl – to be used as evidence. The Jews will accept Him without a doubt and repent!

It was also the custom in biblical times to throw the tallit over a sick person when praying for that person. Christians have the same custom, but not the full truth. If you study the Book of Acts 19:12, it says one must throw an anointed "handkerchief" over a sick person when you pray for that person. When a person died, it was not kosher to touch the dead body; and when they tried to raise the person from the dead, the tallit was thrown over the dead body and the four long fringes were wrapped around the hands. The person would then lie on top of the body with the tallit, which acts as an 'insulation' (if I may use the word) and breathe life into the dead person's mouth.

"Tallits" in the Old Covenant:

1.      2 Kings 1:8 – A "hairy" man wearing a leather belt around his waist (Elijah's "tallit" was made of camel hair), indicating priestly garments.

2.     2 Kings 2:13 – Elisha received Elijah's "mantle”, and many more.

"Tallits" in the New Covenant:

Note that most of the N.T. was written in Greek; there is no word in Greek for the Hebrew word "tallit" and various other names are used. The N.T. is full of "tallitot" and we read over them without even knowing it. Let’s look at some examples:

1.      Matt 3:4 – Yochanan the Immerser was clothed in "camels hair", and a leather belt around his waist (indicating priestly garments).

2.     Mark 5:41 – Y’shua raised the little girl with the words, "talitha cumi", which is Aramaic. This was translated from the original language of Hebrew which the Gospels were written in. Although "talitha” is also 'little girl' in Aramaic, it was a Jewish custom to lay a "tallit" over a sick/dead person. Because of the translation from Hebrew to Aramaic, then from Aramaic to Greek; and then from Greek to English, Y’shua could possibly have meant it in the original "prayer shawl (tallit) and that within it (Talitha) arise".

3.     John 11:44 – Lazarus’ face was wrapped with a "napkin".

4.     Rev 1:13 – Y’shua’s "garment" was down to His feet.

5.     John 20:7 – Y’shua's "napkin" was wrapped around His head.

6.     Acts 19:12 – Paul’s’ "handkerchief/apron" used to heal the sick.

7.     Rev 19:13 – Y’shua clothed in a "robe dipped in blood".

The importance of the "Tallit" at Y’shua HaMashiach’s appearance:

The Roman soldiers cast lots over Y’shua's "Tallit", but somehow He must have gotten it back because He was buried in it (John 20:7 – The "napkin" / "tallit" of Y’shua (that had been around His head) was folded up and placed on one side). When Y’shua returns at the Second Advent, the Yahudim (Jews from the Tribe of Judah – The Southern Kingdom) will recognize Him; Zech 12:10 says they will see Him whom they have pierced. The marks on His hands and feet as well as His "bloody clothes" (His "tallit") will be evidence that they crucified Him. The day He returns, Y’shua will wear the clothes He was murdered in.

There are four new names for Y’shua HaMashiach in Revelation 19. The Yahudim will immediately acknowledge Y’shua as the REAL MESSIAH after they see the marks and blood on His "tallit". The Names are in the four long fringes (tzitzits) of the "Tallit" of Y’shua.

30 Testimonies Proving the Fact of the Second Advent

1.           Enoch (Jude 14-15).

2.          Jacob (Gen 49:10).

3.          Balaam (Num 24:7, 17-19).

4.          Moses (Deut 4:27-31, 30:1-11, 31:16-21).

5.          Job 19:25-27.

6.          David (Psalm 22:26-31, 72:1-17).

7.          Ethan (Psalm 89:1-37).

8.          An unknown psalmist (Psalm 102:16).

9.          Isaiah 59:20, 63:1-6.

10.        Jeremiah 3:14-25, 23:5-6.

11.        Ezekiel 38:19-23, 39:21, 43:7.

12.       Daniel 2:44-45, 7:13-27.

13.        Hosea 3:4-5, 5:15, 11:9, 13:10.

14.       Joel 2:1-11, 3:1-21.

15.       Amos 1:2, 9:11-15.

16.        Obadiah 15-21.

17.        Micah 1:3-4, 4:1-7.

18.       Zephaniah 1:7-8, 14-18, 3:8-20.

19.       Haggai 2:6-9, 21-23.

20.       Zechariah 2:10-11, 8: 3-8, 23, 12:1-14, 13:8-9, 14:1-21.

21.       Malachi 3:2-5, 4:1-6.

22.       Y’shua (Matt 16:27, 19:28, 23:38-39, 24:1-25, 46, 26:64; Luke 21).

23.       Peter (Acts 3:20-21; 1 Peter 1:7, 13; 2 Peter 1:16, 3:3-10).

24.      James (Acts 15:13-18).

25.       Paul (Rom 11:25-27; 2 Thes 1:7).

26.       John 14:28; Rev 1:7, 11:15, 16:15, 19:11-21, 22:20.

27.       Angels (Acts 1:11; Luke 1:32-33).

28.       Lord’s supper (1 Cor 11:26).

29.       Lord’s prayer (Matt 6:10).

30.       Jude 14-15, 24.

Ten-Fold Manner of His Coming

1.           As lightning (Matt 24:27).

2.          With destruction (Matt 24:38-51, 25:31-46; 1 Thes 5:2; 2 Thes 1:7-10, 2:8; Jude 14-15; Zech 14; Rev 19:11-21).

3.          Visibly (Matt 24:29-31; 2 Thes 1:7-10, 2:8; Ezek 38:17-21; Mal 4:1-6).

4.          In brightness and fire (2 Thes 1:7-10, 2:8; Ezek 38:17-21; Mal 4:1-6).

5.          In vengeance and wrath (Rev 14:14-20, 19:11-21; Jude 14-15; 2 Thes 1:7-10).

6.          With power and great glory (Matt 16:27, 24:27-31, 25:31-46).

7.          With Believers and angels (Zech 14:5; Matt 24:29-31, 25:31-46; 2 Thes 1:7-10; Jude 14; Rev 17:14, 19:14).

8.          With/in the clouds (Matt 24:29-31, 26:64; Rev 1:7; Dan 7:13-14).

9.          As Judge and King (Rev 19:11-21; Isaiah 11; Zech 14; Matt 25:31-46).

10.        As a thief (1 Thes 5:2-4; Rev 16:15).

Purposes of the Second Advent

1.           Take vengeance on rebels (2 Thes 1:7-10; Jude 14-15; Rev 19:11-21).

2.          Judge living nations (Matt 25:31-46; Psalm 67:4, 96:10-13, 98:9).

3.          Establish universal religion and civil government (Psalm 72:11; Isaiah 2:1-4; Zech 14; Mal 1:11; Rev 11:15, 20:1-10).

4.          Deliver Israel (Zech 14; Rom 11: 25-29; Isaiah 63:1-6; Matt 25:31-46; Rev 19).

5.          Destroy enemies (Jude 14-15; 2 Thes 1:7-10, 2:8-12; Rev 19:11-21; Zech 14).

6.          Re-establish David’s throne and his kingdom (Isaiah 9:6-7; Jer 30:7-11; Ezek 37:20-26; Hos 3:5-6; Luke 1:31-33; Acts 15:13-16).

7.          Deliver creation from bondage (Rom 8:21; Isaiah 11:1-2, 35:1-8, 65:20-25).

8.          Bring salvation (Isaiah 11:9, 49:6, 52:7; 1 Peter 1:5-13; Rom 11:25-29).

9.          Mete out justice to all (Isaiah 11:1-9, 42:1-4; Jer 23:5-6; 1 Cor 15:24-28).

10.        Reign over all nations (Dan 2:44-45, 7:13-14; Zech 14; Rev 11:15).

11.        Make resurrected Believers eternal rulers on earth (Matt 19:28; 1 Cor 6:1-3; Rev 2:26, 5:10, 20:4-9; Dan 7:18-27).

12.       Gather Israel (Gen 49:10; Isaiah 11:10-12, 66:19-21; Matt 24:31).

13.        Put down rebellion on earth (1 Cor 15:24-28; Rev 2:27, 11:15, 19:11-21).

14.       Rebuild the Jewish Temple – the Millennial Temple from which Y’shua will reign (Ezek 43:7; Zech 6:12-13).

15.       Manifest YHWH’s glory (Isaiah 4:2-6, 35:2, 40:5, 60:1-9; Ezek 39:21; Matt 16:27, 25:31).

16.        Remove the curse from earth (Isaiah 35, 65:20-25; Mic 4:1-7; 1 Cor 15:24-28; Rev 21:1-7, 22:3).

17.        Bring universal peace and prosperity (Isaiah 2:1-4, 35: 1-8; Mic 4:1-7).

18.       End the time of the Gentiles (Luke 21:24; Rom 11:25; Zech 14).

19.       Possess the earth (Psalm 2; Rev 11:15).

20.       Build up Zion (Psalm 102:16; Ezek 37:11-28, 40:2-49).

21.       Evangelise the world (Isaiah 2:1-4, 11:9, 52:7, 66:19-24; Mal 1:11; Zech 8:23, 10:12, 14:16-21).

22.       Restore all things (Acts 3:19-21).

23.       Bind satan and his angels (Rev 20:1-10; Isaiah 24:16-21).

24.      Punish the inhabitants of the earth for sins (Isaiah 26:21, 27:1; Rev 11:18).

25.       Give man one more probationary trial (Rev 20:1-10; Isaiah 11 and 65:20-25).

26.       Fight the battle of Armageddon and restore man’s dominion (Rev 19:11-21; Matt 5:5, 25:31-46; Psalm 8).

27.       Establish a theocratic government (Psalm 2; Isaiah 2:1-4, 4:1-3; Dan 2:44-45, 7:13-14; Zech 14:9; Rev 20).

28.       Gather together in one, all things in Heaven and Earth (Eph 1:10; Col 1:12-20).

29.       Relocate and segregate the different races (Deut 32:8; Acts 17:26).

30.       Heal everyone (Isaiah 32:1-5, 33:24, 35:5).

31.        Fulfil the Abramaic, Davidic and other covenants with man (Gen 12:1-3; 2 Sam 7).

32.       Be glorified in the Believers (2 Thes 1:10, 12; Matt 25:31-46).

33.       Be admired by Believers (2 Thes 1:10).

34.      Prepare the Earth for the eternal habitation of Elohim (Isaiah 35; Zech 14; Rev 20-22; 1 Cor 15:24-28).

35.       Purge man of all possibility of future rebellion, so that the original program with man can be finally and eternally realized (Gen 1:26-31, 8:22, 9:12; Psalm 8; 1 Cor 15:24-28; Rev 20:1 to 22:21).

THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON

Five Reasons why Elohim will Allow Armageddon (to enter into judgment with Man).

1.      The prophet Joel said, because the nations were determined to destroy YHWH's chosen people (Joel 3:2).

2.     Because they have divided the land of Israel (Joel 3:2).

3.     Because of the controversy over Jerusalem (Isaiah 34:8).

4.     Because the nations have failed to repent of their sins (Rev 16:9).

5.     Because of our total abuse of this planet and its resources (Rev 11:18).

Where is Armageddon?

       It is the plain of Esdraelon (also known as the Jezreel Valley, Megiddo) or the Valley of Armageddon.

       It is west of the Jordan River in North Central Israel. The location is ± 10km South of Nazareth and 15km from the Mediterranean Sea.

       The name is derived from "Har Megiddo" in Hebrew (which means "Mountain of Megiddo"); but it is actually "Tel Megiddo". "Tel" is Hebrew for "a man-made mountain" because of one city that was built on top of another since 3150 B.C.E. (ruins of ±25 to 27 cities on top of each other).

       Armageddon, as someone once stated, "is worth a thousand cities”. The reason for this is because it lies next to the highway between Egypt in the South and Syria in the North; and because it is situated at the only exit from the Mediterranean Sea area to the Jezreel valley.

Is Armageddon the area Where the Actual Battle will Take Place?

       Rev 16:16 says, "And they gathered them together to the place called in Hebrew, Armageddon" – this will be the only gathering place.

       From here, the armies will move down to Jerusalem where the heart of the battle will be.

       The climax of the battle will cover the entirety of Israel.

Will the Battle be a One-day Battle, or will there be More than one Battle?

       Rev 16:14 says, "to gather them for the battle of the great day of God Almighty".

       The word "battle" in Greek is "polemos", which is derived from "polemai" that means a campaign or series of battles.

How many Battles in this Campaign of Battles?

       The Bible says there will be three phases before the final invasion.

       Three invasions before the Messiah, the Lord Y’shua HaMashiach, will return and land with His feet on the Mount of Olives.

Very Important Notes

Some scholars say this campaign will cover the entire seven years of the Tribulation period (for those who believe in the full seven years of Tribulation). My opinion is that it will only take place during the last 3½ years – after the Antichrist breaks the peace-pact (see chapter 6 for details). The author will only give one theory on the events of the battle and would like to make this very important comment before we start! The Jewish way to view prophecies and eschatology is pattern and then ultimate fulfillment. The author accepts that the prophecies in Dan 7:8, 23-24, 8:9, 9:26-27 and 11:23-45 deal with history and Antiochus Epiphanes. Antiochus Epiphanes did fulfill Dan 11:23-45 in his time (the pattern); but they will ultimately be fulfilled again by the Antichrist.

The Events leading up to and the Battle of Armageddon

Conflict will increase in the Middle East; and eventually, a seven-year peace-pact will be signed between the E. U., Israel, the Arab Confederation of Nations and many others (we assume a seven year Tribulation period).

Phase 1 – The First Invasion

Plays out at the mid-point of the seven-year Tribulation period – the start of the Great Tribulation period (last 3½ years): They already signed seven-year peace-pact will be confirmed in the beginning of the Tribulation period (Dan 9:27), by the Antichrist who will come out of the European Union (Dan 7:8, 24); more specifically, out of the Syria region (Dan 8:9, 22) (he is also called the Assyrian – Isaiah 10:5, 12, 24). The Antichrist will become strong in a small number of people within the E.U. (Dan 11:23). Because of this, he will then start to glorify himself and stir with the king of the South, and "they shall devise plans against him" (Dan 11:25). The king of the South is the Arab Confederation of Nations. The Arab nations formed a Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt (the King of the South) in 1928. These nations promised "Jihad" (meaning, "Holy war") should Israel war against any Islam country (Psalm 83:5). Now listen to this: Russia (the king of the North) some time ago, signed an accord to fight on their side should a war break out. This was clearly seen in the war in Yugoslavia and Iraq. Both these corrupted leaders (The Antichrist and the king of the South) will negotiate around a table, but they will not honour their agreements (Dan 11:27).

While returning through Israel to his land (Lebanon/Syria area) with "great riches" (that he achieved through negotiations in Egypt – Dan 11:28), the Antichrist’s "heart shall be moved against the holy covenant" (he will go against the seven-year peace-pact and the fact that the Jews worship in the newly rebuilt Temple – Dan 9:27). While passing through Israel, "he shall do damage" (Dan 11:28) and "bring an end to the sacrifice and offering" (he will stop all animal sacrifices and incense offerings in the Temple – Dan 9:27, 11:31). He will then go into the Temple and elevate himself from Messiahship and "exalt himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped (any other form of worship – Rev 17), so that he sits as God in the Temple of God, showing himself to be God" (2 Thes 2:4; Dan 8:11, 11:36). This will also be the time when he destroys the One World Church  (Mystery Babylon) – Rev 17). When he breaks the "holy covenant" (the seven-year peace-pact) the second seal will be opened (Rev 6:3-4 – Red horse (War)). It is possible that an extremist of the Arab or Jewish world will assassinate the Antichrist at this point in time (see theories in Rev 13; Zech 11:17).

The False Prophet will then "exercise the authority of the first beast (Antichrist)" while the Antichrist recovers from "his deadlywound (that was healed)" (Rev 13:12, 14). The False Prophet enforces the "mark of the beast" (Rev 13:16) and puts an "image" of the Antichrist in the Temple (as the Antichrist still demands worship (Dan 11:31)). Those who do not want to worship the "image" will then be killed (Rev 13:15; 20:4). The breaking of the covenant will cause war (which causes famine and death). The 666 mark will also cause famine and a lot of death (the third and fourth seals). The extreme persecution on earth now results in martyrs in Heaven (fith seal). The Jews will then flee with a tremendous speed to the mountains in Jordan (because of the persecution of the Antichrist’s armies – Matt 24:15-21; Rev 12:13-14) where they will be protected by YHWH for the last 3½ years of the Tribulation period.

After the Antichrist has done his "damage" in Israel, he will return to his own land (Lebanon/Syria area – Dan 11:28). The Antichrist will then return to the South (Israel) again; it will be different from the previous times (Dan 11:29). Ships from Cyprus will attack him (which will make him furious) and only those countries that "forsake the holy covenant" will he regard. In other words – who sided with him (Dan 11:30). The Antichrist will then invade Jerusalem and kill many with "sword and flame", and "by captivity and plundering" (Dan 11:33). Some nations will assist the Jews openly; while others will do it secretly – they are the sheep nations of Matt 25:31-46 (Dan 11:34). Some of these nations will be tried (so that they can be refined and purified); meaning, YHWH will allow them to be tested to see if they will side with Israel (Dan 11:35).

The Antichrist will, by now, do whatever he wants to and be empowered by a new god (Dan 11:36-37). He will only honour the "god of fortresses"; the Hebrew phrase is ala mahozine, and it will be his desire to take over the world (Dan 11:37-38). The Antichrist will, at this stage, act easily against the strongest army under the help of this new foreign god (foreign is "nekar" in the original Hebrew – meaning "alien or strange"; LITERALLY, AN ALIEN GOD!) (Dan 11:39). Baalhazor, "Lord of fortresses", provides a connection between Baal and the god of the Antichrist. Baal was lord of war and of the sky and many titles were given to Baal by adding endings to his name. Some examples found in Scripture are Baalbamoth = Lord in high places, Baalzebub = Lord of those that fly, or flit. Zebub is a Hebrew verb, which means to flit from place to place. Baal is identified as satan by Y’shua Himself (Matt 10:25; Mark 3:22; Luke 11:15). The Antichrist will honour satan, the prince of the power behind flying craft in high places ... (UFO's). The Antichrist shall cause "them" to rule over many and divide the land for gain (Dan 11:39) (this is the same as "they (fallen angels) will mingle with the seed of men" – the fallen angels of Dan 2:42-43). Y’shua also said in Matt 24:38 that fallen angels will come again just before His return to take wives for themselves. Satan and his forces will win the first round.

Phase 2 - The Second Invasion

Plays out during the second half of the Tribulation period: The Arab Confederation of Nations (together with Russia) will then attack the Antichrist who is in Israel via sea, land and air (Dan 11:40; Ezek 38-39).

The king of the South will consist of the following nations: Togarmah - Turkey, Gomer - Northern Turkey, Assyria - Syria (remember the Syria in Biblical times include pieces of Lebanon and Iran and the border lines were not the same as today). Persia - Iran (Iraq/Babylon not mentioned in Ezek 38 & 39); Sheba - Southwest Arabian Peninsula, Dedan - a tribe and territory in Yemen, Ammon - North Jordan, Moab - Central Jordan, and Edom - South Jordan (where Petra is located). Tarshish is generally identified as a city or territory in the Western Mediterranean, perhaps Tartessus in Spain. It also includes Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia and Somalia.

The king of the North will consist of the following nations: Gog (only means end time ruler). Magog (is Meshech or better known as Moscow – is directly north of Jerusalem). Rosh (Russia), Tobolsk (Southwest of Siberia, the place where U-2 pilot Gary Powers was shot down years ago). It also includes the six Islam nations out of the Eastern bloc that broke away from Russia.

Russia's army will cover tiny little Israel like a cloud and advance in the latest technology (Ezek 38:16; Nahum 2:2-3). "YHWH's fury will show in His face" and He will pour out His wrath on the kings of the North and South because they want to destroy Jerusalem and His people (Ezek 38:18-19). YHWH will intervene to protect Jerusalem and destroy many of them except for Edom, Moab and Ammon (Dan 11:41-43). Why save these three areas in Jordan? The Jews fled to these areas and YHWH is protecting them (Matt 24:15-21; Rev 12:14-17). YHWH honours His covenant with Abraham (Gen 15:1-5). At this point, the Antichrist will think that it was he that destroyed the Arab nations and Russia. Let’s look at how YHWH will destroy them.

In that time, there will be a great earthquake (Ezek 38:19-23). It is very possible that it is the same one as in the sixth Seal (Rev 6:12 -17). Both references indicate man will be terrified. Mountains will be moved out of their places. Stars and hail will fall (the original language does not use the weather-related word, "hailstones"; but refers to great stones, created stones, stones of ice and a great overflowing of water. This sounds like a comet/asteroid event). The wrath of Elohim.

Russia will be destroyed in Israel (Ezek 39:4-5). People of Israel and permanently-appointed men will bury the bodies of the defeated Russian army for seven months (Ezek 39:11-14). Special search parties will then, after seven months, help to search for more bodies and/or parts that remained above ground. They will identify the positions with markers so that those who come afterwards to cleanse the land will bury the remains. It is possibly the result of chemical substances of a biological war or the poison from a comet/asteroid. No traveller will be allowed to traverse the country. This is why they call it the valley of "Hamon-Gog", which means "the valley of the hordes" of the Russian end-time leader.

Israel will use the weapons of the destroyed Russian army as fuel for seven years, well into the Millennium (Ezek 39:9-10). Russia nowadays uses a material called "Lignite" in the manufacturing of their weapons. Lignite is a lightweight variety of coal which is used in coke ovens as fuel and is intermediate between peat and bitumen. It has a woody/fibrous structure that has a high content (52-62%) of volatile matter. It is stronger than steel, very elastic and burns better than coal. Only 1/6th part of the Russian army will survive this battle (Ezek 39:1-2, check your Bible, not all the Bibles have it in). They will be driven back to Siberia (Joel 2:20).

If you study Ezek 38 and 39 carefully, you will notice that the name "Israel" appears 18 times to identify the nation. Such information attests to the divine inspiration of the Bible, for there was no nation in modern history called Israel until 1948.

The Antichrist who wins this second round will shout victory to the world, but we know that YHWH is yet to intervene (to protect Israel, His people and Jerusalem).

Phase 3 - The Third Invasion

Plays out at the end of the seven year Tribulation period: After the Antichrist has destroyed Russia and the dust has settled, "news from the east and north shall trouble him" (Dan 11:44). The Antichrist will be worried about rumours of armies coming from the Far East to attack him! Two hundred (200) Million demons/fallen angels released out of the bottomless pit will enter the soldiers from the kings of the Orient (or they can manifest in their own form), and will now march into Jerusalem (Rev 9:16).

Russia will strengthen her forces and return to the land of Israel (Dan 11:44) with the army of the Orient. On their way, they will kill a third of mankind. Rev 16:12 says that the river Euphrates will be dried up to prepare the way for the kings of the east. This river starts in Turkey and runs through Syria, Iran and Iraq. There are currently 21 dams with 17 hydro plants in Turkey and the water can be stopped at any time with a push of a button.

The entire earth's kings will then be convinced to partake and will be gathered to battle (Rev 16:14; Zech 14:2). (The author assumes that this is satan’s plan to cause the biggest war in mankind’s history in Israel: to destroy the Jews, Jerusalem and the entire Israel and Middle East. Satan uses the Antichrist as a tool to achieve this, and to prevent the Messiah from returning and then ultimately to escape his judgment.) All the armies of the world will then be gathered together at Armageddon (Rev 16:16). The armies will once again advance with the latest and best equipment (Nahum 2:2-3). All the armies will then move southwards towards the Valley of Yehoshaphat outside Jerusalem to fight (Joel 3:2, 10-14). They will invade the city, houses will be rifled, and women will be ravished (Zech14:1-2).

Elohim will enter into judgment with the nations in the Valley of Yehoshaphat, because they will in this process attempt to destroy the Jews and Jerusalem (Joel 3:1-2). An enormous earthquake will occur, such a mighty one as has not been since men walked the earth (Rev 16:17). Jerusalem will be divided in three parts, two-thirds of the people will be killed and a third will be taken through the fire (Zech 13:8-9). Overflowing rain mixed with hailstones (±50kg), fire and brimstone will fall on the forces below (Rev 16:21). The flesh of men shall also dissolve while they’re standing and their eyes shall dissolve in their sockets and their tongues shall be dissolved in their mouths (Zech 14:12). Is this the effect of the latest war machines of Neutron, Lipton, Atom bombs or chemical warheads, or is it the fire that goes out before Y’shua? (It is interesting to note that Israel has received a "Death Ray" weapon from America. It is a weapon deemed too terrible for U.S. troops. The laser weapon was designed to incinerate the enemy's eyes, thus render them ineffective and causing panic amongst troops – fulfilment of Zech 14:12?)

Blood will run in places to the depth of the horses bridles for 1600 furlongs (±241km – in other words the battle will cover the entirety of Israel, but the centre of it will be in and around Jerusalem Rev 14:20). No wonder the angel calls it the great winepress of YHWH.

It will start to get dark; it will be in the late afternoon (Zech 14:7) then all of a sudden… Heaven will open, an inexplicable bright light will burst through and Y’shua and the Believers and the holy angels will be seen (Rev 19:11)! All the armies will turn their focus to the sky to fight Y’shua and the heavenly forces (Zech 14:3). Y’shua will first come down on Edom (where Petra is in Jordan) and Bozrah (a capital city in Edom) from the Sinai direction; possibly to first save Israel from those that want to destroy her during her escape to the mountains in the same area (Deut 33:2; Isaiah 34:5). This means Y’shua and His armies will approach Jerusalem from the Southeastern side. Enoch and Moses prophesied that Y’shua would return with millions of His Believers (Jude 14; Deut 33:2). Now listen to what Matt 24:27 says: "For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be".

All will turn to this phenomenon in the air – television cameras will be glued to it. The armies will then all start to fight against Y’shua, it is so prophesied and it will happen. A fire will go out before Y’shua and devour His enemies, leaving everything like a trail of wilderness behind Him (Psalm 97:3; Isaiah 66:15; Ezek 20:47; Joel 2:3; Zeph 1:18; Mal 4:1; Matt 13:41-42). In Joel 2:30, the exact characteristics of a nuclear blast ARE explained in detail. Y’shua will put His feet on the Mount of Olives, and the mountain will split into two (from the east to the west); half of the mountain will move north and the other half south (Zech 14:4). A very large valley to escape will be formed, and the remnant of the Jews (the third that went through the fire) who stand and mourn (Matt 23:39) at the Eastern Gate waiting for their Messiah’s deliverance has finally arrived (Zech 14:5)!

(The author firmly believes that Y’shua will save the Jews in exactly the same manner as when YHWH saved Israel from the Egyptians: Israel had the Red Sea in front of them with mountains on both sides. The Jews will be totally surrounded by army forces during Armageddon. Israel had no place to escape to before the Red Sea – It will be the same with the Jews during Armageddon. YHWH intervened and put a column of fire between the Israelites and drew the Egyptians’ attention to the column.  Y’shua will come and draw all the forces’ attention to Him during Armageddon. YHWH acted as a barrier between the Egyptians and the Israelites and delayed the Egyptians. Y’shua will also act as a barrier and delay the attacks on the Jews. YHWH split the water and made a way to escape for the Israelites. Y’shua will also split the mountain and make a way to escape for the Jews. No harm or losses occurred when Israel went through the sea. It will be the same for the Jews when they escape through the mountain. Israel must be saved; YHWH has to honour His covenant with Abraham. YHWH cannot go against His own word (Rom 11:26) Israel will be saved!)

Results of the Battle

1.      Total defeat of satanic forces under satan and the Antichrist (Rev 19:11-20; Isaiah 63; Ezek 38 & 39; Zech 14; Joel 3).

2.     Satan consigned to the abyss for a thousand years (Rev 20:1-7; Isaiah 24:22-23, 25:7).

3.     Israel delivered and vindicated and YHWH’s eternal kingdom set up (Rev 19:11-20, 22:4-5, 11:15; Matt 25:31-46; Dan 2:44-45, 7:13-27; Isaiah 9:6-7; Luke 1:32-33).

Koph letter – Numerical value 100

Meaning (qoff or koph): = Holiness; cycles of growth; summary and judgment at the end of the cycle of life.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter 'koph' is perhaps the most important letter in the Hebrew aleph-beit. It refers to 'holiness and growth' and it implies the second coming of Messiah throughout the Scripture. Through the meaning of koph,  the human race (which fell in Adam) completes its cycle of testing. As the cycle concludes, the fallen were given the opportunity to believe in the redemption available through Messiah. The nation who falls prey to the Antichrist will be judged. The cycle is complete here in chapter 19 with the Second Coming of our Lord Y’shua.

Koph is the 19th letter; and in Genesis chapter 19, the angels rescued Lot at daybreak. In Exodus 19, YHWH descends upon Mount Sinai at daybreak. In Psalm 19, the sun goes forth as a Bridegroom coming out of His chamber. Here in Revelation chapter 19, the Second Advent of Y’shua takes place – will it be at the dawning of the 7th Millennium? Over and over the pattern is the same!!!

This chapter also portrays heavenly worship better than any other chapter or book in the Bible (9:1-7) and here we experience YHWH’s holiness as never before, which is the first meaning of the letter koph. Triumphant shouts of victory takes place: "alleluia", a Hebrew word meaning 'praise YHWH'; and this is the only place in the Brit Chadassah where it is found (verse 1,3, 4 and 6). All this takes place just before the Second Advent.

Revelation Chapter 20

The Millennial Reign of Y’shua Hamashiach

Background

Chapter 20 introduces us to the most beautiful, peaceful, and rewarding age this world will ever know. It is called the Millennium, Olam Haba (the Age to Come), or the thousand-year reign of Y’shua HaMashiach as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

The "Most High" (God) is Y’shua's millennial title and is mentioned throughout the Book of Psalms, Daniel and Hosea. He will also bear the title, "King of Israel" (John 1:49) in that day.

"Mille" means "thousand" and "annum" means "years"; together, it means a "thousand years". Some critics who deny this doctrine of a literal thousand-year peace period and oppose this teaching are in direct opposition to the Word of YHWH (see facts at the end of this chapter).

1 And I saw a messenger coming down from the heaven, having the key to the pit of the deep and a great chain in his hand.

2 And he seized the dragon, the serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years,

3 and he threw him into the pit of the deep, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should lead the nations no more astray until the thousand years were ended. And after that he has to be released for a little while.

4 And I saw thrones – and they sat on them, and judgment was given to them – and the lives of those who had been beheaded because of the witness they bore to Y’shua and because of the Word of

Elohim, and who did not worship the beast, nor his image, and did not receive his mark upon their foreheads or upon their hands. And they lived and reigned with Messiah for a thousand years

5 (and the rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended) – this is the first resurrection.

6 Blessed and set-apart is the one having part in the first resurrection. The second death possesses no authority over these, but they shall be priests of Elohim and of Messiah, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

7 And when the thousand years have ended, Satan shall be released from his prison,

8 and he shall go out to lead the nations astray which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together for battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea.

9 And they came up over the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the set-apart ones and the beloved city. And fire came down from Elohim out of the heaven and consumed them.

10 And the devil, who led them astray, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur where the beast and the false prophet are. And they shall be tortured day and night forever and ever.

11 And I saw a great white throne and Him who was sitting on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away, and no place was found for them.

12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before the throne, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged from what was written in the books, according to their works.

13 And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, and death and the grave gave up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works.

14 And the death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

15 And if anyone was not found written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

There are three theories concerning this angel:

        Theory 1: Note that this angel is not Y’shua or a righteous angel. This angel’s name is unknown, but it shows how powerless the devil really is apart from the enabling and permissive will of YHWH. What is interesting is that both this angel and the angel of 9:1 (wicked angel) have the key to the bottomless pit; but the angel of 9:1 "fell" from Heaven (according to virtually all translations) and is given the key (a fallen angel) so he might be Abaddon, the king of the angels of the pit (9:11).

        Theory 2: This angel has the key as he descends from Heaven and not "falling" – so he is an angel of YHWH. However, if "fell" in 9:1 is a mistranslation (as may be the case), they both may be the same angel. A wicked angel will not lock his own king angel up.

        Theory 3: It is the same angel (Y’shua) as in 10:1. It is Y’shua, as He has the keys of death and Hades (1:18). The important observation here is Y’shua's ownership of the keys, and only He can execute judgment and satan’s judgment has taken place by locking him up in the Abyss.

The Greek word for "seized" – this is "krateo”, which means to be strong or mighty. It must be a very strong angel to take hold of       satan, the dragon (which applies to theories 2 and 3 above).

        "Dragon" in Hebrew pictures a hideous monster.

        "Old serpent" portrays the slithering snake that ruined the entire human race (Gen 3:1-6).

        "Devil" means "adversary" or "foe".

        "Satan" means "slanderer" or "accuser".

Lucifer was the most beautiful angel, perfect in his ways and was also full of wisdom.

        Satan (who outranked all other angels) was first thrown out of the Heavens and is now expelled from the earth (Ezek 28:12, 15).

        There is no reason to think that this is not a literal thousand years. Some allegorically interpret it as a time period in the past or the present (as most Reformers’ doctrine), but there has never been a time period without evil ruling the world. And with the terrible and worsening spiritual state of the world, it is impossible to see that the thousand years (when the forces of satan have been defeated and satan is imprisoned) is the present time. In other words, satan will be shut up for ten literal centuries. It will be a thousand years of peace, prosperity, happiness and holiness.

        Man has always attempted to shift the blame for his/her sins by accusing Elohim. Because man is born and conceived in sin in a sinful world where satan has a direct influence, and therefore man feels he has no chance. That is the reason why Elohim shall have satan removed in the thousand years peace period. Satan will then have no influence in man’s life and man will make his own decisions.

        Man will then have the opportunity to live and grow old in the righteous reign of Elohim without any influence of satan and      his cohorts. During this time, none of the nations of the world will be deceived into worshiping false gods (which is the basic tactic of satan) as all will be subdued under the governmental rules of Y’shua, the 613 Instructions of the Torah. Proof? Zech 14:16-19 and Ezekiel chapters 40 - 48.

        At the end, satan will be released for a short time to expose man to his final test. What will man’s choice now be? Who will man now follow out of free choice?

        Nobody knows how long this "little while" will be. If it is the same as the "short time" (12:12) or the "short space" (17:10), it would be 3½ years.

        The reason for being released is as follows: There will be women who will bear children during the Tribulation period (Matt 24:19). These children will grow old, as life will be prolonged indefinitely during the 1,000 years (Isaiah 65:20-25; Zech 8:4). Remember, Y’shua will rule the world firmly; nations will be required to go up yearly to worship Him (Zech 14:16-21; Isaiah 2:1-4). The possibility is there that some will only do it because of the new civil and religious laws (Isaiah 2:2-4, 9:6-7; Zech 14:16-21; 1 Cor 15:24-28). Another fact is that satan will be bound (there is little or nothing to tempt them); that is why satan will be released at the end of the thousand years, to test their faith in Y’shua (20:7-10).

All the First Resurrection Believers will come back with Y’shua at the Second Coming in a ruling and reigning capacity. They consist of the following groups:

        Group 1: "They" are the "Grace" dispensation’s Messianic Believers (from Shavuot to the Rapture) in 2 Tim 2:12, Rev 2:26, 27, 1 Thes 4:16-18 and 1 Cor 15:15-24, all the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel, us the Bride, HalleluYaH! This includes the twelve disciples from whom the Bride was started. They were specifically told, "…in the regeneration [the Millennium], when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel"(Matt 19:28). This is exactly the scenario that Yochanan sees here at the beginning of the Millennium. It was prophesied (Isaiah 11-12; 65:17-25; 66:22-24) and therefore the Millennial Kingdom will be the regenerated, Eden-like world. The King of Kings (with the glorified and raptured Believers) will rule all Earth from David’s throne in New Jerusalem (Isaiah 9:6-7; 2 Tim 2:12).

        Group 2: "Those" the resurrection of the martyred Believers (House of Yahudah and Lost Sheep of the House of Israel (6:9-11)) during the Tribulation period also undoubtedly occurs at the "glorious appearing of Messiah" (Titus 2:13) when Y’shua returns to earth as seen in Dan 12:1-2.

        Group 3: The "blinded Believers" whom YHWH did not allow to see the Messiah (Deut 29:4, Isaiah 6:10, 29:10, Jer 5:21, Psalm 69:23, Rom 11:8, 10) are resurrected in Dan 12:1-2; meaning, the blinded Orthodox Yahudim (Jews) of the "Grace" dispensation (from Shavuot to the Rapture); the House of Yahudah (Judah) is also included in group 2’s resurrection. The Old Covenant Believers were resurrected as Firstfruits with Y’shua’s resurrection (Matt 27:53, Eph 4:8-10, Psalm 68:18) and this is known as the "Firstfruits resurrection" and is not part of the "First Resurrection" of ±2,000 years later.

        All First Resurrection Believers will reign: Some say that this group is comprised only of those who are martyred during the Final Seven Years (6:9), but look at the following statements: "This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of [YHWH] and of [the Messiah], and shall reign with Him a thousand years", clearly indicates that this group is comprised of all the resurrected Redeemed (including the martyrs) from the time when the Ruach was poured out during Shavuot (Pentecost). Also, this appears to be the fulfillment of Dan 7:9-10, 22, which states, "I was watching; and the same horn [Antichrist] was making war against the saints, and prevailing against them, until the Ancient of Days came, and a judgment was made in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom ... I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated ... A thousand thousands ministered to Him; Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him". So apparently (among other responsibilities which include judging angels (1 Cor 6:3)) the resurrected and glorified Believers will, as promised (2 Tim 2:12), reign with Y’shua over all the nations of the earth (the expanded Tribes of Israel plus nations formed by descendants of the Gentiles who are allowed to enter the Millennium (Zech 14:16)). And as promised (5:10), these kings and priests of YHWH (1:6) will rule, as He does, with a rod of iron (2:27); meaning firm according to the Torah Instructions. That’s because (although satan is chained up in the bottomless pit) man’s sin nature will not have been eradicated (Zech 14:17). So, in order to maintain perfect peace, firm rule with a rod of iron (Torah) over all is necessary.

        "Judgment was given to them" means they are kings and priests (5:10; 1:6). They are part of the "royal priesthood” (1 Pet 2:9; Rev 20:6). These Believers "will judge the world" and "the angels" (1 Cor 6:2-3). "Judge" here in Greek is "krino", and means to make a legal decision; it does not refer to passing sentence. This means they will reign over all nations and help administer the affairs of the universe forever (Isaiah 9:6-7; Dan 2:44-45, 7:13-14; Zech 14; Matt 19:28; Luke 2:31-32; Rev 11:15, 20:4, 22:5). It means that the Believers will be exalted higher than angels and will rule them (Rom 8:17-18; Rev 21:7).

        "Those who had been beheaded", meaning the souls that came out of the Tribulation period. They are beheaded for believing in Y’shua and for the accepting the Torah as ultimate truth and doing it (12:17, 14:12, 22:14-15). These did not bow before the Antichrist or worship his image. The beheaded souls will also rule and reign with Y’shua. These will come down to earth with Y’shua to reign for a thousand years. They also reign over redeemed people; in other words, the sheep nations that came through Armageddon. It must be remembered that procreation will still take place during this era, as those who survived the Tribulation hour will enter the Millennium in human bodies.

Those who died without Y’shua,who never accepted the salvation of Y’shua, who were never reborn as Y’shua told Nicodemus in John chapter 3 – they are in Hades (Sheol in Hebrew).

        The end-piece of verse 5 ("this is the first resurrection") should have been the beginning of verse 6 and read with verse 6 as one thought. Remember, there were no verses and chapters in the original manuscripts; it was only put in ±five hundred years ago. This is why this piece is confusing for some readers.

        Pray that you are part of the First Resurrection. The First Resurrection souls will be reigning over the nations, while those that did not take part in the First Resurrection will come forth a thousand years later.

        The Second Resurrection souls will get their bodies only after the thousand years when they are raised for the Great White Throne (verse 11- 15).

        The "Second Death" is eternal separation from YHWH (the source of life) following the Final Judgment.

        The repetition of "they" from verse 4 confirms that both groups –those whom Yochanan saw sitting on thrones and those who had been beheaded for their witness to Y’shua and the Word of YHWH – were involved in the first resurrection. They are the redeemed and glorified Believers of the Brit Chadashah period till today (those Blinded and the Bride), who will rule with Y’shua during the Millennium.

See verse 3 for the description of satan’s prison.

        This portion of Scripture has caused many people great concern: "Why should he be loosed again after a thousand years of peace?" Keep on reading…

Indicating that nations will be deceived internationally.

        The people of those saved and protected by YHWH and who came back with with Y’shua at the Second Coming (who now cover the earth) have had 1,000 years of perfectly-enforced peace in a perfect, Eden-like paradise. So, how could the devil possibly deceive them? What could he possibly offer them that is better than what they already have? How could he entice them to follow him and to rebel against Y’shua who, for 1,000 years, has met their every need?... In exactly the same way he enticed Adam and Eve to sin against YHWH – by appealing to their vanity and pride – "You will be like Elohim" (Gen 3:5); the same vanity and pride that got Lucifer expelled from Heaven in the beginning (Isaiah 14:12-14); the same incorrigible sin that will be the downfall of anyone (including any of YHWH’s chosen People) who refuse to totally submit to the One True God and who rebel against Him. There is another reason listed at the end of this chapter.

        There are two theories concerning "Gog and Magog":

o           Theory 1: "Gog and Magog" in this verse does not refer to another physical battle with Russia and the Islam world. They most likely refer to the "memory" of the last major brutality. It is an impression left upon the entire world and the details thereof are still vivid. It is used as a figure of speech in the same sense as when we say; eg., "They will meet their Waterloo". It will be a spiritual battle as there will be no weapons during the Millennium Reign. This will be the final battle which YHWH excecutes. There will be no weapons during this period, as we shall see later in the notes following.

o           Theory 2: In Scripture, Gog appears to be the fallen archangel or "prince of the power of the air" (Ezek 38:2; Eph 2:2) who leads nations under his power (Magog) against YHWH’s People.

        Anyway, Ezekiel 38 and 39 tell us about a war of Gog and Magog (the prototype of the war at the end of the Millennium) which will apparently occur during the Tribulation (see end of chapter 19). But the Gog-Magog war at the end of the Millennium involves the peoples of the whole earth (which may consist of one, huge continent after the restoration of the Earth). Those of all nations who have been deceived by the devil come against the "camp of the Believers" (Israel and the Gentiles who have joined Israel under the New Covenant – Zech 8:23; Jer 31:33 – who live outside the city) and "the beloved city" (Jerusalem). But, as Sodom and Gomorrah and Babylon were destroyed, fire will come down from Heaven and destroy the rebels. In other words, the people of the "nations" during the Millennium will be given another opportunity to remain faithful to YHWH. But again, although they dwell in a perfect world ruled over directly by their Messiah, many of them will be deceived into following satan in rebellion against the Lord, and perish.

        This army is gigantic in number … "as the sand of the sea".

        Once again, the camp of YHWH's people (the beloved city of Jerusalem) is surrounded as it was during the Tribulation period. Then in an instant, fire will devour every single rebel (2 Pet 3:10-13). The fire will come directly out of heaven. YHWH will finally destroy all evil.

        "From God (Elohim)" is left out in some Bibles – please check your Bible.

This is the end for the Deceiver of the ages. Satan will be thrown into the place "prepared for the devil and his angels" (Matt 25:41).

        The Lake of Fire in Greek is "Gehenna" (one of the five chambers of the Underworld).

        A thousand years later the Antichrist and the False Prophet will still be burning there, tormented with excruciating pain for eternity! Many (including Christians) have a misconception about hell! Satan is neither the stoker, nor does he torment his followers. The way the author understands it is as follows: Satan is also not the king of Hades, Abaddon/Apollion is (9:11). This links up with the explanation at 6:8. Take special note that the angel Abaddon/Apollion is one of the chief "generals" in satan’s hierarchy. Satan is the god of this world (system), the prince of the power of the air (2 Cor 4:4; Eph 2:2). He will be thrown out of Heavens one and two. He will then reign on earth during the Great Tribulation period. After that he is locked up for a thousand years. He is then released for a short while, and then he is thrown into the Lake of Fire. This will be the first time satan will be in this place prepared for him. It is important to understand that satan is active in the air presently. For victorious living, you must overcome the evil spiritual forces in the air by means of spiritual warfare.

The term "I saw" is found thirty seven times in the Bible. This is the scene of the Final Judgment, when the dead of all ages (before and during the Millennium who are included in the "second resurrection") appear before the Great White Throne judgment.

        Yochanan witnessed the gloomiest hour in history, the        judgment of the wicked at the Great White Throne! "White" is the symbol for purity, justice, and holiness in Scripture (Isaiah 1:18; Dan 12:10; Rev 19:7-8).

        Y’shua HaMashiach will sit on the throne because He is "the way the truth and the life” (John 14:6; Acts 2:30, 17:31). Heb 2:3 says, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation". The tender, loving Y’shua is the One who sits upon the throne as Judge; only Y’shua will judge (not the Father), because Y’shua paid the full price (John 5:22). The Father gave Him authority to execute judgment (John 5:27). He will personally judge those who have rejected His Father and Him throughout history.

These are not the Redeemed who are no longer dead but were brought to life in the First Resurrection. No, the hour arrived when those wicked in their graves hear His voice and are raised for justice (John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15). This is the Second Resurrection, which is only for the wicked!

        What a solemn scene as ungodly mankind stands face to face before Y’shua. Y’shua's eyes are like flames of fire! You will not be able to hide anything from Him; His eyes will be searching and piercing; He is almighty (1:14). How will you defend your case if the Judge was at the scene of every crime you committed (Heb 4:13)? Remember the Ruach of YHWH is omniscient – He knows all. What a horror to stand before Elohim one day (Ps 139: 1-2, 4; Jer 17:10; Ezek 11:5; 2 Pet 2:14; Heb 10:31). There comes a day when every proud, arrogant and self-sufficient person will do the following, while his/her heart is about to fail: "Every knee shall bow … and every tongue will confess" that Y’shua is Lord of all (Rom 14:11; Isaiah 45:23). In agony, they will hear the following words that will ring in their ears forever and ever: "Depart from Me, YOU CURSED, into the EVERLASTING FIRE!" (Matt 25:41). This group includes every Y’shua-rejecter of the ages. Yes, sad to say, some of our dear friends and family will be there. Please read Matt 7:13-14!

        More than one book will be opened that day. There are several books maintained by YHWH, including the books of YHWH’s remembrance of the tribulations of His People and of those who fear Him (Psalm 56:8; Mal 3:16); the book of YHWH’s creation (Psalm 139:16); the book of the Law (Gal 3:10); the books of people’s works (here in verse 12); and the Book of Life. Every evil deed will be recorded which the sinners ever committed. The Word will be used as a "measuring stick" to judge you (John 12:48). One of the books will be the "Book of Life". If you are not saved, then every wrong deed you did is recorded and will be recalled as evidence against you – actions, thoughts, words and intents. This is the time when you will reap what you have sown; yes, YHWH will not be mocked (Gal 6:7).

        The dead are judged by their works rather than by their faith alone, for "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:20). Head knowledge or just saying, "I believe" and you do not show it by the "fruit" (Torah), will not get one saved (22:14-15). That is why Y’shua said, "If you love me, do (a verb, the "fruit" action) my commandments" (John 14:15).

The "sea" here does not mean "masses of people" as Elohim has destroyed all the ungodly people on the earth with fire (verse 9). This is the literal sea as millions of bodies lie in various oceans because of wars, accidents, etc. This also speaks of those in Noah’s days who drowned in the flood (including the fallen angels (Gen 7)).

        The rest of the bodies will come out of "death"; meaning, the graves.

        But all wicked souls will come from "Hades".

        Friend, no church (not even your own church) will be the final standard of truth. Neither will tradition hold sway to the judgment bar of Elohim (Mark 7:7; 13). The only and absolute authority of truth, faith and religious practice is Elohim's Holy Word (2 Tim 3:16).

        SPECIAL NOTE: The Believers will judge the world and the fallen angels (1 Cor 6:2-3). The disciples will judge the Twelve Tribes of Israel (Matt 19:28). This will be more in a reigning capacity during the Millennial Reign and possibly as witnessing at the Great White Throne – as only Y’shua can judge the world (John 5:22).

"Death and the grave" means your soul and body (see the "Understanding the Mysterious Spirit World from a Hebrew Perspective" by Prof WA Liebenberg for a detailed study on the Spirit World).

        The second death means eternal separation from Elohim in a place of excruciating pain forever and ever. A trillion years from now that soul will still be burning. Proof? Read Gen 1:26-27 – "Elohim made man in His image". YHWH cannot die as He is spirit. The spirit/soul that He gave you can also not die, as it was made like Him. The spirit/soul will live forever either in Heaven or in the Lake of Fire.

        There is a saying concerning the "second death": "If you are born once, you will die twice, but if you are born twice, you will die once" – second death is only when you were born in the flesh as a baby and were never reborn in the spirit.

Whose names are written in the "Book of Life", and whose names are not? (See Rev 22:18-19). From Scripture, it appears that three different categories of names exist and that death is the final and irrevocable cut-off point of grace.

Category 1

Those whose names are "not removed" nor ever will be removed.        Everyone who has been reborn and achieved the victory will not have their names removed and will inherit the Kingdom of YHWH,        because they are/were obedient to YHWH and persevered until the end (John 3:1-7; Rev 3:5). These are those who stayed in His Torah covenant and are part of the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

Category 2

Those whose names "are removed", or still to be removed. The names of those who sin against YHWH (sin is breaking and resisting the Torah, 1 John 3:4) and persist in unrighteousness will be removed out of the Book of Life (Exod 32:31-33; Psalm 69:28-29, Rev 3:5). This happens when the final cut off point of grace is reached; namely, at death. After death, redemption or rebirth is not possible.

Category 3

Those whose names were "never recorded". Those who worship the beast whose names were never entered into the Book of Life        since the laying of the foundation of the earth (13:8; 17:8). The latter category of names refer to a group of people who will be alive during the Tribulation period when it will be just like the time of Noah and Lot. This is the time when "fallen angels" (sons of Elohim) slept with the "daughters of men"; where the Nephilim come from (the mixing of fallen angels and man). This group contains the "vessels of wrath prepared for destruction" (Rom 9:22).

Conclusion

What a joyful consolation to know that our names are known to the living Elohim, even from the laying of the foundations of the earth. He who is the Creator of the Heavens as well as the earth. He who is the Saviour of a lost world and the Redeemer of all creation. He who gives to each and every one who perseveres to the end, an incorruptible crown of victory (1 Cor 9:25).

Doctrinal Facts of the Millennial Reign of Y’shua

Those who oppose the teaching of a literal thousand year reign of Y’shua upon earth are in direct opposition to the Word of YHWH! Their claim that the Millennium is dangerously built on a single chapter of the Bible (reference to Revelation chapter 20) proves that they are not good students of YHWH's Word, for many passages both teach and reflect this truth.

First of all, if Israel had no future, dozens of Old Covenant prophecies immediately go down the drain. For    example, Genesis 49 and Deuteronomy 33 with all the benedictions upon the people of Israel must be scrapped if there is no place upon earth where they find fulfillment. To spiritualize or allegorize the literal truths concerning Israel's future is to be willingly blinded. The author has spent many long hours in YHWH's Word and could never intellectually arrive at such a conclusion.

Secondly, there must be a Millennium or scores of verses become hollow platitudes of meaningless predictions. Consider the following text: they could never depict Heaven because they occur on Earth. If so, there must be a time and place for their fulfillment, because none of them has yet occurred: "The wolf shall dwell with the lamb" (Isaiah 11:6), etc. For more examples, see article on what general living conditions will be like during the           Millennial Reign.

Thirdly, the Millennial Reign is going to show us what living conditions would have been like if Adam and Eve had not sin in the Garden of Eden.

Fourthly, if there is not a Millennial Reign, then Y’shua is not the Messiah – as the Second Coming prophecies must be literally fulfilled for Y’shua to be Moshiach Ben David. At His First Coming, Y’shua fulfilled the Moshiach Ben Yoseph (Suffering Servant) prophecies; at the Second Coming, Y’shua will fulfill the Kingly prophecies reflecting Moshiach Ben David, and to set up His reign on Earth from Jerusalem.

Other Names for the Millennium in the Scriptures

1.           The thousand-year reign of Y’shua (Rev 20:2, 4, 6, 7).

2.          The dispensation of the fullness of times (Eph 1:10).

3.          The day of YHWH. Called "that day" many times in the Prophets (Isaiah 2, 4:1, 19:21, 24:21, 26:1; Ezek 39:22, 48:35, etc.).

4.          The world (age) to come (Matt 12:32; Mark 10:30; Eph 1:21, 2:7, 3:21).

5.          The Kingdom of Y’shua and of YHWH (Eph 5:5; 2 Tim 4:1; Rev 11:15).

6.          The Kingdom of YHWH (Mark 14:25; Luke 19:11, 22:14-19).

7.          The Kingdom of Heaven (Matt 3:2, 4:17, 7:21, 8:11, 8:11, 10:7, 18:1-4).

8.          The regeneration (Matt 19:28).

9.          The times of the restitution (restoration) of all things (Acts 3:20-21).

10.        The consolation of Israel (Luke 2:25).

11.        The Kingdom of His dear Son (Col 1:13).

12.       The eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Redeemer, Y’shua HaMashiach (2 Pet 1:11).

13.        The redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:38).

Six Things that the Angel will Do to satan (Rev 20:2-3)

1.           Lay hold of him.

2.          Bind him with a literal chain.

3.          Cast him into the abyss.

4.          Shut him up in prison.

5.          Set a seal upon him for thousand years.

6.          Loose him for a little season.

Six Reasons Why the Tribulation Believers will be Beheaded (Rev 20:4)

1.           For their witness (testimony of Y’shua).

2.          For the Word of YHWH (following and doing Torah).

3.          For not worshipping the beast.

4.          For not worshipping his image.

5.          For not accepting his mark upon the forehead.

6.          For not accepting his mark in the hand.

Satan’s Post-Millennial Career and Doom

1.           When the thousand years are complete, it will be time for the segregation and destruction of all rebels (including satan) and the reparation (renovation) of the Heavens and the Earth by fire – which will result in the New Heaven and New Earth. (Compare Rev 20:7-10, 21:1-22 with 2 Pet 3:10-13): "But the day of YHWH will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved…"

2.          "…in the which the heavens…" is derived from the Greek word "ouranos" and means the over-arching, all-embracing heaven. Where the fowls fly in the air (where the clouds are suspended and the rain is formed), the sun, moon and stars are placed in the same celestial expanse. Also used for that heaven where the residence of YHWH is and from where Y’shua descended.

3.          "…shall pass away…" in Greek is "parechomai". This consists of "para" (near and denoting proximity) and "chomai" (to come or to go or to pass nearby).

4.          "…with a great noise…" in Greek is "rhoizedon" (rushing as of wings and waves with a great noise or a crash). Could be the same type of "whoosh" sound associated with a nuclear explosion.

5.          "…and the elements…" in Greek "stoicheion" (the basic parts, rudiments, elements or components of which the universe is formed; namely, earth, air, fire and water. The atoms or molecular structure of anything seen or unseen).

6.          "…shall melt with fervent heat…" in Greek: "kausomai" (the act of burning or scorching; eg., the melting of gold and iron ore. The burning does not destroy the ore but transforms it to obtain pure gold or pure iron. A qualitative improvement).

7.          "…the earth also…" in Greek "gen" (earthland, soil and includes vegetation. Distinct from the Heavens; hence, "all things in heavens and all things on earth", means the universe. A new earth, therefore, does not mean just another earth but an earth that is qualitatively new and thus an improvement on the old one).

8.          "…and the works that are therein…" in Greek "ergon" (works, performance, results, objects of employment, attempts, deeds (good or bad) or anything wrought by man. Also implying power).

9.          "…shall be burned up…" in Greek "katakaioo". This consists of "kata" (intense, fierce and fiery) as well as "kaioo" (scorching, burning or consumed by fire).

10.        "Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved…" in Greek: "luoo" (to loose, loosen, un-bind, untie and to free. By implication, to dissolve with fire).

Satan, his angels and demons will be loosened from the abyss (Rev 20:7; Isaiah 24:22). Satan and his hosts will go throughout the earth to deceive the nations who have not wanted the reign of Y’shua and who (in their hearts) have longed for an opportunity to get rid of such strict laws and rigid suppression of their lusts (Rev 20:8; Eph 2:1-3). There is a possibility that the rebels could mobilize in the land of Gog and Magog, North of Palestine in Asia and ascend upon Jerusalem from the North. The author personally thinks this is a figure of speech as explained in Rev 20:8 (Ezek 38-39 refers to the same part of the earth, but to an event before the Millennium). The rebels from all parts of the earth will surround the camp of the Believers – the capital city, Jerusalem (Rev 20:9). Fire will come down from YHWH out of Heaven and devour every rebel (Rev 20:9; 2 Pet 3:10-13). The devil will be taken and cast into the Lake of Fire (Rev 20:10).

MANY THINGS ARE GOING TO HAPPEN IN THE MILLENNIAL REIGN

When will it occur?

1.           Satan will be bound for a thousand years (Rev 21:2-3); therefore, there will be limited unrighteousness. Note that there will, however, be some degree of unrighteousness (Zeck 14:16-19).

2.          It will be the time period between the Second Coming and the New Heaven and New Earth.

Who will not Enter?

1.        Certain classes as listed will not inherit the kingdom.

2.        The unrighteous, those who whore, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor

2.1.      thieves, nor greedy of gain, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers (1 Cor 6:9-10).

3.        Those who practice adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance,

3.1.      emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings and such like (Gal 5:19-21).

4.       The fearful, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, whoremongers, sorcerers, idolaters and all liars (Rev 21:8).

5.        The dogs (those opposing the Torah), those who enchant with drugs, those who whore, and the murderers,

5.1.      the idolaters, and all who love and do falsehood (love lies) (Rev 22:15).

What will the Kingdom be like?

1.           The kingdom will be literal and earthly, it will be on our present earth (Isaiah 9:6, 7; Dan 2:44, 45; Zech 14; Rev 5:10).

2.          The kingdom will be worldwide – it will cover the entire planet (Rev 11:15; Dan 2:44, 45; Zech 14).

3.          The world capital will be Jerusalem (Ezek 48; Zech 14), and she will get a new name "Hephzibah", meaning, "The Lord delights in you" (Isaiah 62:2-4 – Israel's new name will be Beulah; meaning, "To be master", or "to Marry").

4.          The world-capital building will be the future Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, the Fourth Temple that the real Messiah, KING Y’SHUA will build (Ezek 43:7; Zech 6:12-13. This Temple is described in Ezek 40-42).

How will the Structure of the Kingdom be?

1.           It will be a theocratic government, meaning it will be ruled through a priestly order by means of the Torah (Isaiah 2:2-4; Ezek 43:7; Dan 2:44, 45; Zech 14:1).

2.          Y’shua will rule under YHWH (Isaiah 9:6-7; Dan 7:13-14).

3.          David will rule over all Israel under Y’shua (Jer 30:9; Ezek 34:24; Hosea 3:4-5).

4.          Each disciple will rule over one Tribe (Matt 19:28; Luke 22:30). They were specifically told, "…in the regeneration [the Millennium], when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel" (Matt 19:28). It was prophesied (Isaiah 11-12; 65:17-25; 66:22-24) and therefore the Millennial Kingdom will be the regenerated, Eden-like world.

5.          The Twelve Tribes of Israel will be greater than all nations (Deut 28:1-14).

6.          Israel will be given all the original land (Gen 15:14-18; Isaiah 60:21; Ezek 47:13-48:35; Exod 23:31; Deut 11:24; Joshua 1:4).

7.          Israel will not be called YHWH's people – YHWH will tell them, "You are sons of the living God" (Hosea 1:10).

8.          The Believers will rule the nations as kings and priests (Rev 1:6, 5:10, 20:4; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

9.          The nations will be located in the part of the earth YHWH gave to each nation and race (Deut 32:8; Acts 17:26).

How will this Kingdom be ruled?

1.           There will be moral, civil, and sacrificial Laws for all nations based on YHWH’s governmental rules, the Torah (Ezek 40-48; Deut 29:28, 33:4; Exod 31:16; Lev 23:14, 31; Isaiah 2:2-4, 9:6-7; Zech 14:16-21; 1 Cor 15:24-28).

2.          Full justice will be meted out to all alike (Isaiah 9:6-7, 11:3-5, 65:20-25; 66:1-2; Matt 5:1-7, 29).

3.          All nations will be required to send representatives to Jerusalem yearly to acknowledge Y’shua and to comply with the Torah mitzvoth (instruction) to attend the festivals (Zech 14:16-21; Isaiah 2:2-4, Exod 23:14, Deut 16:16).

4.          All the former sacrifices, feasts, and rituals of the Temple worship will continue as eternal memorials of that which Y’shua fulfilled, as reminders of what Y’shua did for us (Ezek 43:18-27; Zech 14:16; Isaiah 66:19-24; Heb 10:1-10).

5.          There will be earthly Priests and Levites serving in the future Temple (Isaiah 66:19-24; Ezek 43:18-27, 44:9-31).

6.          The Israelites will again be missionaries to evangelize the nations (Isaiah 66:18-21; Zech 8:23).

How will the Worship be?

1.           Universal knowledge of YHWH will be manifest (Isaiah 11:9; Zech 8:22-23).

2.          There will be universal worship (Mal 1:11; Zech 14:16-21; Isaiah 2:2-4; Joel 2:28-32; Jer 31:31-36).

3.          The Ruach will be poured out upon all flesh (Isaiah 32:15; Ezek 36:25-27; Joel 2:28-32).

4.          There will be only one covenant, the Torah Covenant (Jeremiah 31, Acts 3:21).

What will the Earth be like?

1.           A river will flow out from under the Temple southward and divide into two branches; one going into the Mediterranean and one into the Dead Sea (which will give life to the Dead Sea), and there will be many fish in it (Ezek 47; Zech 14:8).

2.          Light from the heavenly bodies will be increased seven-fold (Isaiah 30:26, 60:19-22).

3.          Waste places of the earth such as deserts will be restored to usefulness (Isaiah 32:16-18; Ezek 36:8-38; Amos 9:14-15).

4.          Lebanon will be turned into a fruit field as in a forest (Isaiah 29:17).

5.          Out of every high hill rivers and streams will flow (Isaiah 30:25).

6.          Instead of a thorn shall come up a fir tree. The curse over the earth will be removed at this point in time (Isaiah 55:13).

7.          The creation and the laws of nature will be restored and brought into balance (Rom 8:18-23).

8.          The desert will blossom again as a rose (Isaiah 35:1-10; Ezek 36:8-12; Amos 9:13-15).

9.          Animal natures will be changed as before the fall in Adam’s days; i.e., the lion will play with the lamb, the curse over the animals will also be removed (Isaiah 11:6-8; Rom 8:18-23).

10.        Animals will increase rapidly (Jer 31:27).

What will General Living Conditions be like?

1.           Human life will be prolonged indefinitely (meaning, for an unlimited period) as it was meant to be before the fall. Once again, the curse over man will be removed (Isaiah 65:20-25; Zech 8:4) ("a child will die at a hundred" means the child will then only go into maturity, it doesn’t refer to death).

2.          There will be universal peace with nobody learning about war or how to fight anymore; there will not even be one defence force, police station or a prison during this time (Isaiah 2:2-4; 9:6, 7; Micah 4:3, 4).

3.          Universal prosperity will be a reality (Isaiah 2:2-4; Micah 4:4-5).

4.          Houses will not be built and others inhabit them. What this means is that the need to make money to survive will be non-existent – each one’s needs will be met (Isaiah 65:22).

5.          Ploughshares and pruning hooks (farming instruments) will be made from weapons (Isaiah 2:4).

6.          Vineyards (food) will be planted to eat for each person for himself (Isaiah 65:22).

7.          Fruitful seasons will be enjoyed without interruption; you will plant and it will grow throughout the year; it will be "fat and plentiful" (Isaiah 30:23; Ezek 34:26; Joel 3:18).

8.          Your cattle will feed in large pastures, meaning each person will have his own pasture. (Isaiah 30:23-24).

9.          Each person will enjoy the work of his or her hands (Isaiah 65:22).

10.        Nobody will labour in vain anymore (Isaiah 65:23).

11.        Material blessing will fill the earth; the poor among men shall rejoice (Joel 3:18; Amos 9:13; Isaiah 29:19; Ezek 34:27).

12.       There will be no violence, waste or destruction of any form (Isaiah 60:18).

13.        Mankind will increase rapidly, especially Israel: "the voice of those who make merry, God will multiply them and they shall not diminish" (Hosea 1:10; Jer 31:27; Jer 30:19; Gen 1:26-28).

14.       Children will be brought forth to be enjoyed to the fullest (Isaiah 65:23).

15.       Divine healing for the body will be experienced by all: "the deaf will hear, the blind will see" (Isaiah 29:18, 32:1-5; 1 Pet 2:24).

16.        The financial system will be as in Israel (Gen 14:20, 28:22 with Heb 6:20, 7:1-10; Matt 23:23; Rom 2:22; 1 Cor 9:7-18, 16:1-3; Mal 3:10-12).

We can see this is going to be a great day! No wonder Y’shua prayed, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done". That should be our continuous prayer as well. It will be answered shortly.

Who are forbidden in the Millennial Kingdom? Classes of people who will go to Eternal Hell

The Greek is specially used here from the Brit Chadassh as to not be biased from a Hebrew perspective. This is taken primarily from the "New Covenant":

Attitude-Related:

1.        The Fearful (Greek deilos) – cowardly, craven, vile, worthless, miserable, wretched, unhappy (Rev 21:8).

2.        The Abominable (Greek bdelusso) – to cause to stink, make loathsome, feel disgust, detest, have horror of, to be abominated. It refers to those polluted with unnatural lusts (Rev 21:8).

3.        The Partisanship (Greek, zeloo) – enthuser, fanatic, indignation, a form of jealousy, envious of somebody, agreeing with opinions that are anti-Torah doctrines (be very careful of this) (Gal 4:17; James 4:2).

4.       The Begrudgers (Greek, phthonos,stenazo) – keenly envious, painfully malicious or jealous because others are blessed, unmerciful passion toward others (Gal 5:21; Rom 1:29; 1 Tim 6:4; James 5:9; Tit 3:3; 1 Pet 2:1).

5.        The Wrathful (Greek thumos) – violent eruption in anger, to hurt, revenge, anger, rant and rave, destructive, home or civil unrest / disorder / noisy / bustle / hurried (Gal 5:20; 2 Cor 12:20).

6.        The Covetous (Greek pleonexia) – stingy, money grubbing, a person eagerly desiring or pursuing a thing belonging to another person, gluttonous, penny pinching (Matt 6:19-21; Mark 7:22; Luk 12:15; Rom 1:29; 1 Cor 6:10; Eph 5:3; 2 Pet 2:14).

6.1.1.       This is forbidden in the 10 Commandments (Exo 20:17; Rom 13:9).

6.1.2.      It will scar / damn the soul (1 Cor 5:11; Eph 5:3-5; 1 Tim 6:6-11; 2 Peter 2:3,14).

6.1.3.      It must be put to death entirely (Col 3:2-10).

7.        The Liars / Lovers of Lies (Greek pseudes) – fibbers, propoganda, fraud, misleading, cheating, deceiving, untruthful, unfaithful, impure, untrue, intentional / deliberate falsities, concealing problems or (problem areas), anything implying that which it is not, also in deceitful biblical teachings or instructions (Rev 21:8; 22:15).

Relationship-Related:

8.          The Discordants (Greek, dichostasia) – cause division, incite / instigate / revolt or mutiny in;- divine worship / government / home or any other place, conflict through differences that lead to continuous striving or variances (Gal 5:20; Rom 16:17; 1 Cor 3:3).

9.          The Rivalists / Slanderers (Greek eritheia) – allegations, contentions, strife, disputes, dissensions, difference, quarrel, strive for seniority or to be first, to do unto others as they do unto you in a negative way, selfish ambitions, misuse of others, acting without thought towards others, false accusations during arguments (Gal 5:20; 2 Cor 12:20; Phil 2:3; Rom 2:8).

10.       The Jealous (Greek zelos) – envious watching over other people, to shield another out of spite, strive to better yourself at the cost of others, competitive spirit with others’ homes, work, etc. (Gal 5:20; Rom 1:29).

11.        The Quarrelsome (Greek eris) – irritate people, sow discord, dissension, argue, conflict, dispute (Gal 5:20).

12.       The Haters / Enmity (Greek echthra) – not to forgive others, harbour bad feelings, dislike somebody, be repulsive, bear a grudge, malicious toward others (Gal 5:20; Rom 8:6-8).

13.       The Haters (Greek echthra) – enmity, hatred, grudge, hostility, resentment, despise, wickedness, ill-willed, conspiracy towards others (Rom 8:7; Gal 5:20; James 4:4).

14.       The Extortioners (Greek harpax) – ravening, threaten, acquire by force, rapacious, greedy, wrest / wring / extort through blackmailing others (1 Cor 5:10-11, 6:10).

Sexually-Related:

15.       The Revellers (Greek, komos) – living in extravagance, debauchery, revolt, mutiny, living wild, riotous, boisterous or noisy parties / meals / receptions / feasts. To relish in dirty or improper music or other similar sinful activities / pleasures (Gal 5:21; 1 Pet 4:3; Rom 13:13).

16.       The Drunkards (Greek, methe, methusos) – imbiber of intoxicating substances with the focus on getting drunk, to be addicted in any way, shape, or form which causes you not to think soberly (Luk 21:34; Rom 13:13; 1 Cor 5:1; 6:10; Gal 5:21).

17.       The Unchaste (Greek akatharsia) – unbecoming behaviour, despicable sexual deeds, impure motives (2 Cor 12:21; Gal 5:19; Eph 5:3; Col 3:5).

18.       The Unbound / Lustful (Greek aselgeia) – lecherous (randy), lust, unchastity, not chaste, not virtuous; not pure, characterized by sexual suggestiveness or excess (Gal 5:19; Mark 7:22; 2 Cor 12:21; Eph 4:19; 1 Pet 4:3; Jude 4).

19.       The Adulterers (Greek moicheia) – fornication, inappropriate liaisons / sexual relationships between men and women, married or single (Gal 5:19; Mat 15:19; Mark 7:21; Heb 13:4).

20.      The Whoremongers (Greek pornos or porneia) – a male prostitute, debauchee, libertine, fornicators (1 Cor 5:9-11; Heb 12:16), harlots (Eph 5:5; 1Tim 1:10; Heb 13:4; Rev 21:8; 22:15) it includes all forms of whoring, women as well (Gal 5:19). The latter refers to those who partake in gruesome immoral sexual deeds whilst practicing idolatry (Acts 15:20; 21:25; Rev 2:14, 20-21; 14:8; 17:2-4; 18:3; 19:2).

21.       The Person with an Unclean Spirit (Greek akathartos) – Foul, perverts, unclean abusers of themselves with mankind (Luk 4:33).

22.      The Effeminates (Greek malakos) – a man who is not manly but womanish, girlish, femininity, the same as homosexuals (1 Cor 6:9).

23.      The Sodomites (Greek arsenokoites) – men who abuse themselves with other men, to be in relations with other men sexually or homosexuality (1 Cor 6:9; 1 Tim 1:10).

Crime-Related:

24.      The Thieves / Robbers (Greek kleptes) – these deeds can be done by fraud and in secret or by violence and openly; plundering, embezzling, stealing, looting, foraging, marauding, banditing, unlawful / dishonest profiteering, incurring debts to pay debts, false teachers or liars that bring deceiving heresies (against Torah) robbing Believers from the truth (1 Cor 6:10; 1 Thes 5:4; 1 Pet 4:15).

25.      The Murderers (Greek phoneus or phonos) – murder, to kill, to spoil or mar the happiness of others (Rev 21:8; 22:15; Rom 1:29; 1 Pet 4:15; 1 John 3:15).

Dogma-Related:

26.      The Idolaters (Greek eidololatreia) – those who worship idols and practice gruesome immoral deeds in idol worshipping as mentioned in point 17 (Gal 5:20; 1 Cor 10:14; Col 3:5; 1 Pet 4:3).

27.      The Sorcerers (Greek pharmakeia, pharmakeus, pharmakos) persons who call up evil spirits through the use of drugs, enchanted potions, or with charms and enchantments, seeking to produce supernatural affects in the lives of others (Rev 9:21; 18:23; 21:8; 22:15).

28.      The Unbelieving (Greek apistos) – infidel, (Torah) covenant breaker, faithless (1 Tim 5:8; Rom 1:31).

29.      The Ones Wilfully Opposing the Torah, the Law (Greek, kuon) – False prophets, those against the Torah, the Lawless ones. Those out of the Torah Covenant. They are called "dogs" in Scripture (Rev 22:15; Deut 23:18; Isaiah 56:10-11; Phil 3:2; Psalm 22:16, 20, Matt 7:6). In Matt 15:26-27 Y’shua called the "woman" (Gentile) from Canaan a "dog" (Torahless Gentile) until such time she came into the "household" (the Commonwealth of Israel) of the "Father" (YHWH’s rules) by accepting to eat of the "crumbs" (by start studying with minor Torah teachings) of the "bread" (the Torah).

30.       The Deceivers (Greek apatao, planao) – fraud, cheat, trick, swindle, mislead, entice, to lead someone around the bush, to fall away from the truth of Torah, to seduce unto heresies (1 Cor 15:33; Gal 6:7; Eph 5:6; 2 Tim 3:13; James 1:26; Titus 1:10; 3:3; Rev 12:9; 20:3, 8).

31.       The Children of Disobedience (Greek apeitheia) – unwilling, unbelief, unusable, refusal, stubborn, ignoring, disregard, reluctance to be convinced, rebel, disregard or obstinate opposition to the divine will of Torah (Eph 2:2; 5:6; Col 3:6).

32.      The Heretics (Greek heiresis) – those who choose / believe false teachings or deceiving heresies, a form of religious worship / discipline / opinion, apostate, deserter, renegade (agaist Torah) (Gal 5:20; 2 Pet 2:1).

No wonder Y’shua said, "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide and broad Is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life and there are few who find it" Matt 7:13-14. And what shakes my whole being, "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness (this is to be free from the listed sins above) without which no one will see YHWH". Heb 12:14.

Now that you’ve rated yourself honestly like Y’shua the Judge will rate you, can you honestly say that you are on your way to Heaven? If the Ruach is convicting you right now my friend, please make right, do not waste time, your everlasting soul is at stake here!

Resh letter – Numerical value 200

Meaning (resh): = Holiness; cycles of growth; summary and judgment at the end of the cycle of life.

Embedded in the Chapter: The letter 'resh' stands for the wicked. It is important to note that in the order of the aleph-beit, the 'resh' (wicked) letter appears on the left of the 'koph' while the 'tzaddi' (righteous) stands to its right. It is a picture of the day of judgment. The letter of holiness thus stands between wickedness and righteousness. Messiah will reward the righteous and judge the wicked.  This is exactly what will happen at the Second Coming. The righteous will be saved while the wicked will be destroyed.

In this chapter, we see how Elohim deals with the wicked and wickedness. A thousand years after the Battle of Armageddon, Y’shua will then sit on the Great White Throne as seen in this chapter. This is called the Second Resurrection, the resurrection of all wicked people to report for the Great White Throne judgment (20:11-15). Satan the king of wickedness is also dealt with at the Second Coming, he is cast into the lake of fire forever and ever (20:10).

Revelation Chapter 21

All Things Made New

Background

The final two chapters of the Revelation present a glorious future which awaits Believers of all ages. The eternal states of both the saved and lost is described in the first 8 verses of this chapter. Verses 9 to 27 present a glowing description of the New Jerusalem.

1 And I saw a renewed heaven and a renewed earth, for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea is no more.

2 And I, Yohanan, saw the set-apart city, renewed Yerushalayim, coming down out of the heaven from Elohim, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

3 And I heard a loud voice from the heaven saying, “See, the Booth of Elohim is with men, and He shall dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and Elohim Himself shall be with them and be their Elohim.

4 And Elohim shall wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor mourning, nor crying. And there shall be no more pain, for the former matters have passed away.”

5 And He who was sitting on the throne said, “See, I make all matters new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and trustworthy.”

6 And He said to me, “It is done! I am the ‘Aleph’ and the ‘Taw’, the Beginning and the End. To the one who thirsts I shall give of the fountain of the water of life without payment.

7 The one who overcomes shall inherit all this, and I shall be his Elohim and he shall be My son.

8 But as for the cowardly, and untrustworthy, and abominable, and murderers, and those who whore, and drug sorcerers, and idolaters, and all the false, their part is in the lake which burns with fire and sulphur, which is the second death.”

9 And one of the seven messengers who held the seven bowls filled with the seven last plagues came to me and spoke with me, saying, “Come, I shall show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.”

10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the set-apart Yerushalayim, descending out of the heaven from Elohim,

11 having the esteem of Elohim, and her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal,

12 and having a great and high wall, having twelve gates, and at the gates twelve messengers, and names written on them, which are those of the twelve tribes of the children of Yisra’El:

13 three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west.

14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve emissaries of the Lamb.

15 And he who spoke with me had a golden measuring rod, to measure the city, and its gates, and its wall.

16 And the city lies four-cornered, and its length is as great as its breadth. And he measured the city with the rod: two thousand two hundred kilometres – the length, and the breadth, and height of it are equal.

17 And he measured its wall: sixty-five metres, according to the measure of a man, that is, of a messenger.

18 And the structure of its wall was jasper. And the city was clean gold, like clear glass.

19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with all kinds of precious stones: the first foundation jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,

20 the fifth sardonyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.

21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls – each one of the gates was a single pearl. And the street of the city was clean gold, like transparent glass.

22 And I saw no Dwelling Place in it, for YHWH El Shaddai is its Dwelling Place, and the Lamb.

23 And the city had no need of the sun, nor of the moon, to shine in it, for the esteem of Elohim lightened it, and the Lamb is its lamp.

24 And the gentiles, of those who are saved, shall walk in its light, and the sovereigns of the earth bring their esteem into it.

25 And its gates shall not be shut at all by day, for night shall not be there.

26 And they shall bring the esteem and the appreciation of the gentiles into it.

27 And there shall by no means enter into it whatever is unclean, neither anyone doing abomination and falsehood, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

This is what Y’shua predicted in Matt 24:35 & Isaiah 65:17 when He said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away". "Pass away" is "Parechomai" in Greek, which means to pass from one condition to another, and never means annihilation. The time and method are described in 2 Pet 3:7, 10-13.

        It is reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. The basic elements earth, air, fire and water will burn and pass away with a great noise. The earth and the works upon it will be changed and renewed with an intense glowing heat (see "Satan’s Post-Millennial Career and Doom" in chapter 20). Elohim will purify the earth and the Heavens from its sinful state (note the Heavens are included, as this was the domain of satan with his fallen angels and demons).

        The righteous will be protected during this process, and will possibly be in the New Jerusalem in the third Heaven.

        Seas cover ¾ of the present earth, the New Earth will not have any.

Two Jerusalems are mentioned in Scripture (Gal 4:25-26 and Heb 12:22). One is earthly and the home of Believers during the Millennial Reign. The New Jerusalem is a heavenly one, a celestial city.

        The New Jerusalem is the one Y’shua prepared for us (John 14:2). It will hover over the earth eternally, following the      postmillennial creation of the New Heaven and earth. The redeemed in their glorified bodies will live in the New Jerusalem.

        Another fact is that believers will be able to travel as fast as the speed of light (yes, as fast as their thoughts). They will go to and from the New Jerusalem in space, in a moment of time.

        Those with bodies of flesh who were born and saved during the Tribulation and Millennial Reign (those that did not die) enter the eternal state with their natural bodies. They will live on earth, in and under the light of the Holy City (21:24).

The beauty of the entire scene is that Elohim dwells in the midst of His people. See the "Seven names of the city of God" at the end of this chapter.

Never again will a funeral procession take place, for death will have been destroyed (1 Cor 15:22, 26). See "12 Blessings for men in the New Earth". (Read the "Twenty-one new things" at the end of this chapter.)

For the details of the Aleph and Taw, see 1:8.

        I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. The spiritual and physical thirst of YHWH's people will be satisfied forever without measure and cost.

        What did Elohim mean by "It is done?" (See the remarkable "Twelve-fold plan of Elohim" at the end of this chapter.)

In Y’shua, all creation began without sin (Col 1:15-19); now in Y’shua it has ended without sin. The "overcomers" are those referred to in  12:11.

        The "overcomers" are persons who believe Y’shua is the Son of YHWH – do you? (1 John 5:5). See article on the "Overcomers" at the end of this chapter.

The classes of people that will go to eternal hell are listed at the end of chapter 20.

        The second death is the Lake of Fire or the eternal separation from YHWH in hell eternally. There is no place such as "purgatory" taught in the entire Bible. There is no such thing as getting right with YHWH after you have died. Your opportunities are on this side of the grave. Death is the final cutoff point of grace and is irrevocable.

The Bride of Messiah is only the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel. Y’shua came to die for the House of Israel only (Matt 15:24); as YHWH divorced them, but YHWH never divorced the House of Yahudah (Judah), Yahudah is still His wife.

        Y’shua (according to the Torah) had to die; or else YHWH could not marry the House of Israel again, and YHWH made a covenant with the House of Israel and He has to and will marry her again (Rom 9:4-5, 11:26; Eph 2:12). (For the details on this, please study the Introductory pages "Before you attempt to read the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach you need to understand what your Identity is".)

Some scholars reason as follows: "The Bride is the heavenly       Jerusalem City with the redeemed of all time in it! The Bride includes both, and uses the Lost Sheep of the house of Israel as well as the celestial city".

        The author’s reasoning is: if a bride approaches in a vehicle and you say "look at the bride, she is coming", you do not look at the vehicle. You focus on the bride inside the vehicle. The same is applicable here for the Bride in the New Jerusalem city decending out of Heaven.

The New Jerusalem will look as follows: Jasper stone is sea green in colour, and it is clear as crystal with no pollution at all.

        Because human minds cannot begin to fully comprehend the New Jerusalem, it is presented in images of the most fantastic, precious, valuable, beautiful objects known on the earth. Her light (reflecting the glory of YHWH) is like a jasper stone. The Bride of the Messiah will not be the source of light in New Jerusalem, but will reflect the glory of YHWH.

The wall is not for protection, as all unrighteousness has been removed as satan has already been cast into the Lake of Fire. The wall is is for the eternal memorial of the fact that our lives have been hidden "with Messiah in YHWH" (Col 3:3).

        The twelve gates of the City – three on each side, each attended by an angel, each one having the name of a Tribe of Israel written on it – were typified by the Twelve Tribes of Israel camped around the Tabernacle (Numbers 2). Question… through which gate will the 41,000 different Christian dominations go?

        The twelve angels are very possibly those who worked jointly with each tribe during Israel's stay on earth.

There are also twelve foundations.

        Y'shua is the cornerstone of this City to which the foundations, laid by the prophets and the apostles, was aligned:  "…having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Y’shua HaMashiach Himself being the chief cornerstone." (Eph 2:20, also (1 Peter 2:20)). The construction of this City began with the prophets: in Abraham, laying the foundation of faith in the dwelling place, a "city whose builder and maker is Elohim" (Heb 11:10,16); and in Moshe, with the physical form and structure of the future Tabernacle (Exod 26:30; Heb 8: 5; 3: 2b-5). Then in David, with the pattern of life and worship in the future Tabernacle (1 Chron 28:11-13; Amos 9:11; Acts 15:16), to mention just a few of the main prophetic foundations of the "House" that were laid. Y’shua then taught His Apostles the true foundational doctrine and Sha’ul explains this to be the Written Torah laid by the Living Torah: "According to the favour of Elohim which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But each one should look how he builds on it. For no one is able to lay any other foundation except that which is laid, which is Y’shua Messiah" (1 Cor 3:10-11).

        The "first stone" or the "foundation stone" (Peter/Kepha the Apostle) can be regarded as a "reflection" of the "last stone" which is the real "cornerstone" (Y’shua). In Matt 21:44, Y’shua explains that He is the cornerstone. He is the capstone of a pyramid with the sharp point upwards. The meaning is: if you fall on the "sharp point" of the Torah (arrow) you will hurt yourself; but if you totally reject Y’shua’s Teachings of the Torah willfully, you will be crushed by the same Torah that He will use as a measuring stick to judge you at judgment day (see "The New Jerusalem is in Pyramid shape" at the end of this chapter).

        The entire building structure thus revolves around Y’shua and His foundational Teachings.

A golden reed (or rather, a measuring rod made out of gold). It is a good thing thieves are excluded. In Rev 11:1, measuring the Temple was done with a flimsy cane reed. Now, New Jerusalem is measured with a golden reed – indicating eternal preservation of a highly-valued object (the City and the People of YHWH, the Bride of the Messiah).

        A measuring rod's length is 12½ feet or 3.81m. The city is built with a square base. The root text in Greek says the sides are 12,000 "stadion", equal to ±2,400km (or 1,500 miles long). The height is also ±2,400km high. The shape of it can either be a cube or a pyramid – both will suit the measurements. The author agrees it will be a pyramid (see article at end of chapter on why); but if we assume it is cubical and calculate the volume of the city, it will be as follows: 13,820,000,000 – or better, 13.82 trillion houses (with a house of the following area: 1,000 metres long x 1,000 metres wide x 1,000 metres high). Each house will be the size of a city block and ±357 stories high. From this calculation, we can see that there is more than enough space for all the Believers from all times. Yes, Messiah Y’shua promised you a mansion; and if you make it, you will get one made out of pure gold. John 14:2-3 says, "In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also".

Sixty-five meters is ±144 cubits (216 feet). We will just list each component briefly and visualize the incredible combined beauty of those components – perhaps YHWH will give us a clue of the awesome, incomprehensible beauty of the actual New Jerusalem:

        The 144-cubit wall is brilliantly-luminescent, crystal-clear jasper (the diamond of old).

        The entire city is gold – so pure, that it is transparent.

        The twelve foundations of the wall are adorned with breathtakingly beautiful, precious stones: 1. Jasper is sea green. 2. Sapphire is bluish – (next to diamond in hardness). 3. Agate, several colours-some transparent, bluish-white, milky veined, brownish-black, yellowish-red. 4. Emerald is green. 5. Sardonyx is bluish-white, some red. 6. Ruby is blood red. 7. Chrysolite is yellowish with dusky green. 8. Beryl is transparent bluish-green. 9. Topaz is pale green with yellow. 10. Chrysoprase is yellow-green with a bluish hue. 11. Jacinth, red mixed with yellow. 12. Amethyst, purple-strong blue and deep red.

        Imagine people from all nations (the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel) will be finally joined together walking on streets of pure gold. No more this and that labels, etc. Instead, we will be united Messianic brethren, Torah Covenant brothers – what a glorious day! We will lay aside our eternal tags that so often divide us, HalleluYaH!

No Temple/Dwelling Place means man will not have to go to a building to meet Elohim as in the Old Covenant. No, He will dwell with man, but there will not be a literal Temple in the New Jerusalem (3:12; 7:15; 11:19; 14:15; 17; 15:1-8; 16:1; 17).

This refers only to the City. There will be light from the sun and planets on the earth outside the City forever (Gen 8:22; Jer       31:35-36; Isaiah 30:26). The glory of Elohim provides perfect light for New Jerusalem; there are no sun, moon and stars, and hence, no night there.

        Y’shua is the light of the world (John 8:12). In the middle of the seven new things is another hidden menorah. It describes the Lamb as the light. Some Bibles leave this out – please check your Bible.

Referring to the sheep nations of Matt 25:31-46 that stayed loyal to the Y’shua HaMashiach during the Millennial Reign.

        They are born-again regenerated Believers. They did not follow satan in the final rebellion upon his release from the bottomless pit. Therefore, they entered the eternal state in body and flesh. The sheep nations will replenish and multiply and carry out the original program of Elohim as if Adam did not sin.

        Y’shua will cause the New Jerusalem to shine in all its glory (21:23).

        The nations’ kings (remember you will be a king (Gentile ruler) or priest (Temple duty) (5:10)); now the nations bring glory and honour into the New Jerusalem. They come to praise the KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS.

There is no need to shut the gates anymore. There will be no fear of terrorism, robbery, etc. Such events are no longer present;. Elohim is present and satan is destroyed.

        What this means is that there will be nothing unholy in the New Jerusalem city. The emphasis here is on the holiness of the city, it is not trying to indicate to us that there will be sin on earth. There can not be any sin because satan is destroyed. It also ensures us that those locked up in the Lake of Fire will remain there forever and ever; they will not get a second chance.

Seven Names of the City of Elohim

1.           The Holy City (Rev 21:2, 22:19).

2.          New Jerusalem (Rev 3:12, 21:2). It is called new because of its eternal freshness and newness, not because it is new in existence. It is as old as Heaven and was promised to the earliest Believers on Earth (Heb 11:10-16; Ps 93:2, 103:19).

3.          The Tabernacle of Elohim (Rev 13:6, 15:5, 21:3). It is called the Tabernacle of Elohim because it is the dwelling place of Elohim.

4.          The Bride, the Lamb’s wife (Rev 21:2, 9). It is the Bride, the Lamb’s Wife, because it will be the eternal home of the redeemed of all ages (Rev 21:9; Heb 11:10-16, 13:14; John 14:1-3).

5.          The Holy Jerusalem (Rev 21:10). It is called holy because there shall never enter into it anything that defileth, that worketh abomination, or maketh a lie (Rev 21:27).

6.          The Heavenly Jerusalem (Heb 12:22). It is called the Heavenly Jerusalem because it is the Jerusalem in Heaven and not the one on earth.

7.          The Father’s House (John 14:2). It is called the Father’s House because it is the abode of YHWH and His heavenly family (John 14:1-3).

Twelve Blessings for man on the New Earth

1.           Elohim dwelling among them (Rev 21:3).

2.          Elohim will be their God (Rev 21:3, 7).

3.          Elohim shall wipe away all tears (Rev 21:4, 7:17; Isaiah 25:8).

4.          No more death (Rev 21:4; 1 Cor 15:24-29).

5.          No more sorrow (Rev 21:4).

6.          No more pain (Rev 21:4; Gen 3:14-19).

7.          All things made new (Rev 21:5).

8.          Plenty of the water of life (Rev 21:6, 22:17).

9.          Inherit all things (Rev 21:7; Rom 8:17).

10.        Eternal sonship (Rev 21:7; 1 John 3:1-2).

11.        No more curse (Rev 22:3).

12.       Freedom from ungodly neighbours.

Twenty-one New Things in Chapters 21 and 22

1.           New city on earth (Rev 21:2-3: 10-27).

2.          New and visible presence of Father on earth (Rev 21:3-7, 22:3-5).

3.          New earth conditions (Rev 21:4-7).

4.          New water of life for all men on earth (Rev 21:6, 22:1, 17).

5.          New realisation of eternal inheritances for all men (Rev 21:7).

6.          New segregation between godly and ungodly (Rev 21:8-27, 22:15; Isaiah 66:22-24).

7.          New and eternal relationship (Rev 21:1-3, 24-27, 22:1-5).

8.          New eternal generations of natural people (Rev 11:15, 21:3-7,24-27, 22:4-5; Gen 8:22, 9:12, 13:15, 17:7, 19; Ex 3:15; Deut 5:29, 29:29; 2 Sam 7:24-26; 1 Chr 23:25; Ps 45:17, 89:4, 102:12, 106:31, 145:13, 146:10; Isaiah 9:6-7, 51:8, 59:21; Jer 31:35-36, 32:38-40; Ezek 37:24-28, 43:7; Dan 2:44-45, 7:13-14,18,27; Luke 1:32-33,55).

9.          New traffic in the new city (Rev 21:24-27).

10.        New river on earth (Rev 22:1).

11.        New food for the new natural people (Rev 22:1-2, 14).

12.       New and eternal health (Rev 22:1-14).

13.        New earth inhabitants, the resurrected people residing in the new Jerusalem (Rev 21:2,9-10, 22:1-5).

14.       New location for the capital of the universe (Rev 21:2, 9-10, 24-27).

15.       New method of living forever (Rev 22:2).

16.        New kinds of fruit (Rev 22:2).

17.        New and eternal King and kingdom on earth (Rev 22:3-7, 22:1-5).

18.       New unity between Heaven and Earth (Rev 21:3-7, 24-27, 22:3; Eph 1:10).

19.       New and eternal responsibility of man in carrying out the original plan (Rev 21:3-7, 24-27, 22:1-5; Isaiah 45:18; Gen 1:26-28).

20.       New future for natural and resurrected men (Rev 21:3-7, 24-27, 22:1-5; Eph 2:7).

21.       New and eternal realisation of YHWH’s plan for man fulfilled (Rev 21:2-7, 24-27, 22:1-5).

"It is done" – What is done? (The 12-fold Plan of Elohim Completed)

1.           Sinful career of immediate Heavens and Earth ended (Rev 21:3-7).

2.          Renovation of Heavens and Earth (2 Pet 3:5-13; Heb 1:10-12, 12:25-28).

3.          All things made new (Rev 21:5).

4.          All rebels put down (1 Cor 15:24-28).

5.          Man purged of all possibility of rebellion (Rev 21:3-8; Eph 1:10, 2:7, 3:11).

6.          The curse removed (Rev 21:3-8, 22: 1 Cor 15:24-28).

7.          Earth turned back to YHWH (Acts 3:21-22; 1 Cor 15:24-28; Eph 1:10; Isaiah 66:22-24).

8.          Rebels judged and confined to hell (Rev 20:11-15; Matt 25:41, 46; Isaiah 66:22-24).

9.          YHWH recognised again as Supreme Ruler of the universe as before rebellion (Rev 21:3-8; 1 Cor 15:24-28; Eph 1:10, 3:11).

10.        YHWH’s original plan for free will and the universe realised (Eph 3:9-11).

11.        YHWH’s form of government and His own being vindicated before all free will in the universe (Eph 3:9-11; 2 Pet 3:9).

12.       Elohim’s throne and headquarters moved from the third heaven and established on earth (Rev 21:3-22).

Who are the overcomers?

In Rev 21:7, we are told that we must be overcomers. How are we to do that? "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony" (Rev 12:11). The word of our testimony is that Y’shua HaMashiach became our substitute and we identified with Him. It is the same idea of the lamb taken by the offender in Old Covenant times. The offender’s hand would be laid on the head of the lamb (Lev 4:33) before the lamb was killed. It was symbolic of the sinner’s sins being transferred to the sinless victim, the lamb. The sinner would then slit the throat of the lamb. He was the one who had sinned; he was the one who had to slit the throat. It was our sins that nailed Y’shua to the tree.

Then the skin was stripped from the lamb, typifying that Y’shua "being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the crucifixion stake" (Phil 2:8). The lamb was then placed upon the brazen altar, which was a type of Golgotha and the judgment of Elohim. In other words, instead of the sinner dying, Y’shua died in our place. That is my testimony.

As I could not save myself, neither can I through my own efforts overcome the powers of darkness. So, not only do I accept Y’shua as my substitute at Golgotha (identifying with Him), but I also accept Him as my substitute in the resurrection and I identify with it.

As Y’shua walked out of the grave in newness of life; I, too, walk out of the tomb in newness of life. And now, as Yochanan said, "as he is so am I" (John 4:17). And now "I am crucified with Messiah, nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Messiah liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of YHWH, who loved me, and gave himself for me" (Gal 2:20). This is the word of my testimony!

The Holy City, the New Jerusalem

1.           Its names (see notes above).

2.          Its source and origin (Rev 3:12; 21:2, 10; Yochanan 14:1-3; Gal 4:26; Heb 9:11, 11:10-16, 12:22, 13:14).

3.          Its preparation (Rev 21:2; John 14:1-3; Heb 11:10-16).

4.          Its eternal location (Rev 3:12, 21:2, 9-10,24-26, 22:1-5).

5.          Its outward appearance (Rev 21:11-25).

6.          Its walls, gates, and foundations (Rev 21:12-14; Heb 11:10-16).

7.          Its measurements (Rev 21:15-17).

8.          Its materials (Rev 21:10-21).

9.          Its age (Rev 21:2).

10.        Its streets (Rev 21:21).

11.        Its buildings (Rev 21:12, 7:15, 11:19; John 14:1-3).

12.       Its lighting system (Rev 21:23, 25, 22:5).

13.        Its water system (Rev 22:1, 17).

14.       Its inhabitants (Rev 3:12, 21:2-5, 22:3-4; John 14:1-3; Heb 11:11-16, 12:22-23, 13:14).

15.       Its traffic (Rev 21:24-27).

16.        Its food (Rev 2:7, 17, 19:7-10, 22:2; Ps 78:25; Luke 22:15-18, 28-30).

17.        Its restrictions (Rev 21:8, 27, 22:13-15).

18.       Its rulers (Rev 22:3-5).

Who will live in the City?

1.           The Old Covenant Believers were promised the New Jerusalem (Heb 11:8-16).

2.          The early Assembly was promised the city (John 14:1-3; Heb 12:22-23).

3.          Every Believer is promised the city (Rev 3:12; John 14:1-3; Heb 12:22-23).

4.          The 144,000 Jews will be there (Rev 7:1-8, 14:1-5).

5.          The Tribulation Believers will go there (Rev 6:9-11, 7:9-17, 15:2-4, 20:4-6).

The New Jerusalem is in a Pyramid Shape

The symbolism of the cornerstone in Christian tradition is founded on the text: "The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner" (Psalm 118: 22; Matt 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17). It is odd that this symbolism is frequently misunderstood as a result of the confusion commonly made between this "cornerstone" and the "foundation stone", suggested by the even better known text: "Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matt 16:18).

This confusion seems strange for (from a specifically Christian point of view) it confuses Peter with Messiah himself; for it is the latter who is expressly meant by the cornerstone (as is shown in the passage from Sha’ul) which distinguishes it particularly from the "foundations" of the building: "Ye are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Y’shua HaMashiach himself being the chief corner-stone, in whom all the building, fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit" (Eph 2:20-22). However that may be, there is (in taking the two stones as identical) a simple, logical impossibility which can be shown clearly by examining the texts already quoted: the "foundation stone" is the one first placed, right at the beginning of the work of constructing a building (and this is, of course, also why it is called the first stone). How, then, could it possibly be rejected in the course of the same construction? For this to be possible, the rejected stone would have to be the "cornerstone" – the stone for which, as yet, there is no place; (and as we shall see) no place can, in fact, be found for it until the moment of completing the whole building; it is in this way that it becomes the "head of the corner".

Sha’ul clearly represents Messiah as that "unique principle" on which the whole structure of the Assembly depends. The "foundation stone" might, in one sense, be called the "cornerstone" as is frequently done (because it may be positioned at an external or internal corner of the building) – but in that it is not unique, there being necessarily four corners to a building; and if one were to speak more particularly of the "first stone", it would then not in any way differ from any other corner foundation stone, except by its situation. There would be no distinction of form or function between them as four equal supports. It might be possible to maintain that one or other of these four "cornerstones" in some way "reflected" the dominating principle of the building, but it could in no way be regarded as being "that principle itself". Besides, if this was really the case, one could not rationally use the term "the cornerstone" (there being in fact, four of them). This "cornerstone" must therefore be something "essentially different" from the cornerstone in its ordinary usage as a foundation stone; and the two meanings have only their joint character in common as belonging to the same "building" symbolism.

Allusion has just been made to the shape of the "cornerstone" – this contains an important point, since this stone has a peculiar, unique shape which makes it different from all others; not only can no place be found for it as the building progresses, but the builders themselves cannot envisage its final use. If they had understood, then clearly they would not have thrown the stone away; but rather, put it to one side until the end. But they ask each other, "What is to be done with this stone?"; and, finding no satisfactory answer, they decide to "heave it over among the rubbish", thinking it unusable. The final destination of this stone could only be understood by a different category of builder (not involved at this stage) being one who has progressed from "the square to the compass"; the distinction being based on the geometrical figures for which these instruments are respectively used (the square and the circle) symbolizing, in a general way, the earth and the sky. Here, the square figure denotes the lower part of the building and the circle the upper part; which in this case, would be a dome or vault[108]. In fact, the "cornerstone" is really a "keystone".

In order to render the true meaning of the expression, "is become the head of the corner", it should rather be translated, "is become the keystone of the arch", which is perfectly correct; thus this stone becomes genuinely unique (by both shape and position) within the whole building – as it must be in order to symbolize the principle upon which all depends. It is perhaps a little surprising that this representation of the principle is the last to be incorporated; but then it can be said that the whole building is constructed around this point (as Sha’ul expresses it in saying "in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in YHWH"); and it is in that building that final unity is achieved.  This is yet another instance of that analogy (already frequently explained else-where) between "first" and "last", "beginning" and "end" – the building represents manifestation in which the beginning (or principle) only appears as the final achievement; and it is precisely by virtue of this same analogy that the "first stone" or the "foundation stone" can be regarded as a "reflection" of the "last stone", which is the real "cornerstone".

The equivocal nature of expressions such as "cornerstone" lies precisely in the possible different meanings of the words "corner" and "angle". In different languages, words which mean "angle" are often related to others meaning "head" and "extremity": in the Greek, kephalé ("head") and in architecture, ("capital") are only applicable to a summit; but akros can be used to indicate an extremity in any direction – in the case of a building, the highest point; or any of the four corners (this last word being etymologically derived from the Greek “gōnia”, angle or corner) –even though it is preferably used for the highest point. Even more importantly, in dealing with texts on the "cornerstone" in the Judaeo-Christian tradition, is consideration of the Hebrew word meaning "corner": the word is pinnah, and one finds the expressions eben pinnah, "cornerstone" and rosh pinnah, "head of the corner". It is particularly remarkable, however, that in this context this same word pinnah is also used to mean "chief".

A "chief" is etymologically a "head", and pinnah comes from a root pnê meaning "face"; the close relationship between the ideas of "head" and "face" is self-evident; and, moreover, the term "face" belongs to an extensive symbolism worthy of separate treatment. Yet another association is that of the "point" (Greek “akros”); we have seen how it is associated with the idea of extremity –the highest point or summit. All these connections only serve to confirm what has been said of the situation of the "cornerstone" at the top of the building; even if there are indeed some other "cornerstones" in a more general sense, it is only this one which is really the cornerstone.

There are other interesting implications in the meaning of the Arabic word rukn ("angle", or "corner"): this word, because it indicates the extremities of a thing – and thus, the most withdrawn and most hidden sometimes takes on a meaning of "secret" or of "mystery"; and in this respect, its plural arkān is close to the Latin arcanum, which also has the same meaning and to which it has a striking resemblance. Moreover, in the hermetic language (at any rate), the use of the word "arcane" was certainly directly influenced by the Arabic word in question. Apart from this, rukn also has the meaning of base (or foundation) – taking us back to "cornerstone" in its meaning of "foundation stone".

In alchemical terminology, (el-arkān, used without further qualifications) are the four elements or the material "bases" of our world, which are thus similar to the foundations of the four corners of a building – since it is upon them that the whole corporeal world (represented by the shape of the square) is constructed. Thus, we are once more returned to the symbolism here involved. In fact, there are not only these four arkān or "basic" elements, but also a fifth rukn (the fifth element) or the "quintessence". This latter is not on the same level as the others, for it is not simply as a base as they are; but indeed, the principle itself of the world. It will thus be represented by the fifth angle or corner of the building (its summit); and this "fifth" (which is, in reality, the "first") conforms appropriately to the designation of supreme angle, angle "par excellence" or the angle of angles (rukn el-arkān) because in it the multiplicity of the other angles is reduced to "unity".

One may also note that the geometric figure obtained by joining these five corners is that of a pyramid on a quadrilateral base: the lateral lines emanate from the summit like rays; whilst the four ordinary elements – represented by the lower extremes of these lines proceed from the fifth and are derived from it – it is also for this reason (following the same lines) we have likened them to rays that the "cornerstone" at the summit is "reflected" in each of the "foundation stones" of the four corners of the base.

To summarize, the "cornerstone" (in its sense of the "summit" stone) is referred to in English as the keystone as capstone (sometimes spelled "capestone") and as copestone (or coping stone); the first of these words is readily comprehensible for it corresponds exactly to the French clef de voute (or clef d’arc, literally the key of or to the vault or arch – the term being equally applicable to the stone forming the top of a vault as to the top of an arch), but the other two need a little more explanation. The "cap" in capstone is clearly the Latin caput meaning "head" leading us back to the description of this word as "head of the corner". It is precisely this stone which "finishes" or "crowns" the building; it is also a capital, which is the same as "crown" to a column. We mentioned "finishing" and that the two words "cap" and "chief" were in fact etymologically identical. The capstone is thus the "chief" of the building or the "work"; and by reason of its form, which demands special knowledge and skill for its shaping; by it the building is completely finished – or in other words, brought to its final "perfection".[109]

Having said all this, satan cannot create anything – he can only corrupt; i.e., Chanukkah into Christmas, Passover into Easter, Star of Dawid into the Hexegram; and now the Pyramid structure of the New Jerusalem City, with the Capstone the Seat of our King Y’shua HaMachiach – he corrupted into the luciferic Masonic, Illuminati and occultic symbols, deceitfully designed and implemented by the Jesuit Order.

Shin letter – Numerical value 300

Meaning (shin): = Divine power; provision and protection.

Embedded in the Chapter:The final two chapters deal with the glorious future which awaits every Believer of all ages. In chapter 21, we see YHWH’s absolute divine power, provision and protection to the fullest extent when the righteous souls inherit their long-awaited eternal life. In the very opening verse, we see YHWH’s divine power at work through establishing a New Heaven and a New Earth, as the first ones have "passed away".

"Passed away" is "pararchomai" in Greek and it means to change from one condition to another – it never means total annihilation. The entire chapter deals with YHWH’s provision and protection for us; i.e.:

verse 2 –              a New Jerusalem prepared for the Bride.

verse 3 –              the Tabernacle of Elohim is with men, Y’shua dwells with us, we will see Him face to face, and we shall be His people .

verse 4 –              no more death, sorrow, pain or crying.

verse 5 –              YHWH will make all things new.

verse 6 –              Y’shua will give unto him that thirst of the fountain of water of life, freely.

verse 7 –              he that overcometh will be YHWH’s son.

verse 22 –              YHWH / Y'shua will be present in the New Jerusalem.

verse 23 –              the Lamb is the light, there is no need for light in the New Jerusalem City.

Undoubtedly, we clearly see YHWH’s absolute divine power, provision and protection in this chapter!

Revelation Chapter 22

THE RIVER OF LIFE

Background

The closing chapter of the Revelation continues the thrilling sightseeing tour of the New Jerusalem. This last chapter will also prove to us that the theory of "once saved always saved" is void and is not in line with the teachings of the Bible. Let’s conclude the last part of our journey on the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach.

1 And he showed me a river of water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of Elohim and of the Lamb.

2 In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

3 And no longer shall there be any curse, and the throne of Elohim and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.

4 And they shall see His face, and His Name shall be upon their foreheads.

5 And night shall be no more, and they shall have no need of a lamp or the light of the sun, because Y’shua Elohim shall give them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.

6 And he said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. And YHWH Elohim of the set-apart prophets has sent His messenger to show His servants what has to take place with speed.

7 See, I am coming speedily! Blessed is he who guards the words of the prophecy of this book.”

8 And I, Yohanan, saw and heard these matters. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the messenger who showed me these matters.

9 And he said to me, “See, do not! For I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers the prophets, and of those who are guarding the words of this book. Worship Elohim.”

10 And he said to me, “Do not seal the words of the prophecy of this book, because the time is near.

11 He who does wrong, let him do more wrong; he who is filthy, let him be more filthy; he who is righteous, let him be more righteous; he who is set-apart, let him be more set-apart.

12 And see, I am coming speedily, and My reward is with Me, to give to each according to his work.

13 I am the ‘Aleph’ and the ‘Taw’, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.

14 Blessed are those doing His commands, so that the authority shall be theirs unto the tree of life, and to enter through the gates into the city.

15 But outside are the dogs and those who enchant with drugs, and those who whore, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and all who love and do falsehood.

16 I, Y’shua, have sent My messenger to witness to you these matters in the assemblies. I am the Root and the Offspring of Dawid, the Bright and Morning Star.”

17 And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And he who hears, let him say, “Come!” And he who thirsts, come! And he who desires it, take the water of life without paying!

18 For I witness to everyone hearing the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to them, Elohim shall add to him the plagues that are written in this book,

19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, Elohim shall take away his part from the Book of Life, and out of the set-apart city, which are written in this Book.

20 He that bears witness of these matters says, “Yea, I am coming speedily.” Amen.

Yea, come, Master Y’shua!

21 The favour of our Master Y’shua Messiah be with the set-apart ones. Amen.

The first two verses establish the fact that the Believers in their glorified bodies will continue to enjoy the habit of eating. The Word says, "we shall be like Him." (1 John 3:2). Y’shua ate in His glorified body, so why wouldn't we? (Luke 24:43).

        We will enjoy the best drink we will ever enjoy – pure refreshing water, direct from the Throne.

        We will also enjoy delicious, health-producing fruit. The "tree of life" bears 12 types of fruit, and produces them monthly.

        Adam and Eve sinned by partaking of the "tree of knowledge of good and evil” (Gen 2:17, 3:6). Elohim then drove them out of the Garden of Eden (Gen 3:23) and stationed angelic Cherubim at its entrance to prevent them from eating the fruit of the "tree of life” (Gen 3:24). Why? Lest they eat and live eternally in their sinful state. YHWH cursed man; and from then on, man does not live eternally as Elohim planned it originally. Before you continue, please read The Cloning of Human Beings at the end of the chapter.

        The leaves contain healing or health and wholesomeness for the nations. It’s an improvement on the promises of the Garden of Eden, when Adam and Eve were not even allowed to eat from this tree. This is for the nations in their natural bodies, living under or in the light of the city. The word “health” is the proper translation (not healing) since there is no more sorrow, sickness, or pain. Healing is unnecessary, because eternal health is for all. This speaks of the preservation of life; it brings eternal life and/or mortality (2:7). Praise YHWH, no more doctor bills and dentist injections! They are permanently retired. We, in our glorified bodies, won’t need leaves because our bodies will be like the body of Y’shua.

Finally, all forms of curse will be removed from YHWH’s creation forever. YHWH's plan is fulfilled!

        Faithful angels, redeemed men of all ages and the nations that did not rebel against YHWH will serve Him (Eph 1:10; 1 Cor 15:24-28).

        The throne of Elohim and Y’shua will also be in the City.

The true child of YHWH who completes the race will see Elohim face to face; meaning, we will live in His shekinah explosive power forever and ever.

        YHWH's Name will be inscribed upon our foreheads. This is His seal of eternal ownership!

No natural or artificial lighting will be required in the New Jerusalem. Messiah in all his glory illuminates the entire city!

        Those who form part of the Bride will reign as kings under Y’shua forever and ever.

An angel inspired by the Ruach HaKodesh says, do not doubt these things that you read in this Book.

        YHWH spoke through the Old Covenant prophets and is still speaking through these prophets today to warn the world that He is coming with the consequences thereof.

        In other words, they will SPEEDILY come to pass exactly as foretold. The term “speedily” is not used in terms of hours,       days, months or years (also see 1:1). It speaks of a series of events happening in rapid succession once they begin. In other words, when these things begin to come to pass (read Luke 21:28, Y’shua is speaking of the signs of verse 7-19 in the same chapter), the signs will occur one after the other, very speedily. This is also mentioned in Rev 1:1.

        "Blessed is he who guards the words of the prophecy of this book".  Here is the second time it is emphasised that we get a blessing if we keep (understand and believe) the prophecy of this Book (1:3). Sadly, very few Believers read the Revelation. It should be the desire of each Believer to master it!!!

Yochanan was shown, and it was also explained to him what would happen in the last days. He received the information via his eyes and ears – two witnesses.

        Yochanan was so overwhelmed by the Revelation and how it will take place that he fell down and worshipped the angel.

The angel said he is part of the prophets; angels bring the messages from YHWH to the prophets.

        A direct instruction not to worship anybody or anything except Elohim. Elohim the Godhead is the Father, and is also Y’shua and the YHWH’s Divine Ruach. We read about the composite Godhead in Gen 1:26, "Let Us make man in Our image". "Us" and "Our" are plural, indicating more than one Person. Further, we read in Gen 1:1 "In the beginning God...", the Hebrew word for God here is "Elohim" and is in the plural male word, yet one. Now read John 1:1-14. Y’shua made everything in the beginning (John 1:3, Col 1:14-17). "And the Word (Y’shua) became flesh" (John 1:14).

        Anything you worship apart from this composite Godhead, such as the Virgin Mary, Saints, Angels, etc., is an abomination before YHWH! Ponder on this… is there any Scripture in the Word stating that we must worship the "Holy Spirit"? Listen to what Y’shua said in John 16:13-14 and you decide: "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you."

An instruction that this book should be explained to all. Daniel's prophecy was told to be sealed until the end (Dan 12:4), Yochanan was forbidden to seal the Revelation. Who are preachers and teachers to keep it sealed and not preaching/teaching from it? There is no excuse not to study it!

        And the reason for it is to prepare the harvest for the future.

Speaking of the eternal state of a person to be as he/she is when he/she dies; for example if you die:

1. Unjust, you will stay unjust.

2. Filthy, you will stay filthy.

3. Righteous, you will stay righteous.

4. Holy, you will stay holy (set-apart).

        There is no place such as "Purgatory" taught in the entire Bible. There is no such thing as making right with YHWH after your death. Physical death is the cut-off point of grace and is irrevocable. Friend, your opportunities are on this side of the grave; any other teaching is from the pit of hell.

Whatever you did for the Kingdom or not (or to be doomed to the Lake of Fire) is decided at the Great White Throne judgment (Gal 6:7). Y’shua will be the Judge as He paid the price.

Take note, this verse says "do" and John 14:15 says, "If you love Me keep my commandments (Torah)" – what does it mean? The fact is that we are saved by grace through faith in Y’shua (Eph 2:8-9). Titus 3:5 says we are not saved by works or righteousness which we have done, but by his mercy. Rom 4:5 says the person that "does not work but believes in Him", faith is accounted for righteousness. Physical work should not be done for salvation. These two verses (Revelation and John) refer to living the Torah after salvation because of your love for YHWH.

        See the explanation at Rev 20:4 why Torah is a specific requirement for permission to enter the New Jerusalem City.

The details of who the "dogs" are and who will not enter into the Kingdom are explained in "Who are Forbidden in the Millennial Kingdom? Classes of People who will go to Eternal Hell" in chapter 20.

Y’shua wants us to know these things, and will deal with the various Congregations soon.

        Dawid is the first and last human name mentioned in the Brit Chadassah (Matt 1:1 and now here in verse 16). It is not to honour Dawid but to enforce the fact that Y’shua was born a Jew, through the Tribe of Judah.

The Ruach HaKodesh calls everybody to repent. Salvation and eternal life are not cheap, but free; you do not have to pay for it – the price has been paid in full.

Pay attention, here is a serious warning my friend: "everyone" includes you and me.

        Firstly, how do you ensure that your name will not be removed out of the Book of Life? The Word is very clear about this. 1) You must be reborn (John chapter 3). 2) It is then your duty to become part of the Commonwealth of Israel, the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel (Matt 15:24) and apply YHWH’s set ot rules, the Torah (1 John 2:3-4). It is your choice (for or against YHWH‘s rules) that will determine whether your name shall remain or be removed from the Book of Life. Your name will be removed if you reject Y’shua (John 3:18), despise the blood of Y’shua – or willfully and blatantly reject His set of rules, the Torah (Heb 10:28-29, Matt 7:21-23, Hos 4:6). Now if you add or take away from this prophecy, you will be responsible for deleting your name from the Book of Life and sending yourself to the Lake of Fire.

        This is also concrete proof that your name can be removed from the Book of Life after it had been entered (Rev 3:5; Psalm 69:20-29; Exod 32:32-33). It blows the teaching of "once saved always saved" out of the window. This is satan’s way to lull people to sleep and to keep them asleep. Do you understand what responsibility it is to change the Word of YHWH to suit man?

May the Ruach HaKodesh open your spiritual eyes and ears to give you the wisdom to explain this prophecy to your brethren. This is one of the most important doctrines of the entire Bible: the return of our Messiah Y’shua. This is also the chief theme of the  Revelation (1:7).

        Seven times in this last chapter, the Ruach invites the reader to repent or informs the reader that Y’shua is coming quickly.

This book could have ended with judgment, but instead it ended with grace (favour); thereby all of Heaven (along with the Assemblies and all of mankind must say: "Amen", "So be it” (Jer 11:5)).

This concludes our journey through the Book of Revelation.

I pray you have been blessed by this commentary.

I pray that the Ruach will use you as a mighty instrument

to take this message out to the world.

So be it

Satan's attempt to Counterfeit the "Tree Of Life" – Creating of Human Bodies by Means of Cloning and Cryonics

Cloning is a method of producing a baby that has almost the same genetic makeup as its parent. In very simple terms, it works like this: the nucleus of an egg is removed – thereby removing nearly all the egg's DNA or genes (heretic determinator cells). This is thrown away, as it is no longer necessary. (DNA – Deoxyribonucleic Acid – carries the instructions for making all the structures and materials the body needs to function. It contains the genetic elements of both parents.)

You then take a nucleus from a cell belonging to the adult person to be cloned. You insert this cell nucleus into the egg by nuclear transfer. You stimulate the reconstructed egg (either electrically or chemically) to become an embryo (the developing organism). The embryo is then cultured; and when it reaches the appropriate stage, it is transferred to a surrogate mother. It then develops into a foetus. Cloning is nothing else but genetic manipulation. It is the precise copying of a molecule of an existing person. In other words, you duplicate a person. Therefore you can make more than one ‘copy’ of the same person.

Scientists have now also started to unlock the secrets of the human body (DNA) with a super computer, 1,000 times more powerful than the Deep Blue computer (it performs one million billion mathematical operations per second – Sunday Magazine 12.12.1999). Man is driving toward the cloning of human beings with unrestrained effort, which is why the Human Clone Foundation (HCF) was established on the 3rd of March 1998. The first successful cloning was done on a mammal (lamb) in 1996, and was called Dolly. Scientists shortly after that cloned fifty identical mice. Dr Richard Seed shocked the scientific community on BBC News on the 10th September.1998 when he stated that he would begin cloning human beings within the next three years. He said he will clone himself first, and his wife agreed to carry an embryo that would be created by combining the nucleus of one of his cells with a donor egg. Dr. Seed stated that cloning would be the first step to attain immortality. He received hundreds of calls supporting cloning.

November 1998, (the very same year) Advance Cell Technologies (ACT) had reported the successful cloning of a human embryo in a cow's egg. They allowed the cloned embryo to develop for twelve days before halting the project. They proved it could be done, and the first cloned human baby was born in 2002! To drive this to even greater extremes, on the 8th of May, 2000, the Human Genome (the complete make up of a cell or organism) Project, (HGP), announced the official launch of the final phase to decipher the three billion DNA letters that make up the human body. The project would be complete in 2003 (Science Daily).

Scientists say they have also found a way of rejuvenating aging cells. Dr. Richard Gibbs, Director of the Baylor College Sequencing Centre said, "We won't stop until every uncertainty that can be resolved is resolved!" There are already sixteen institutions (Human Genome Project (HGP)) world-wide, funded by government agencies and public charities in various countries to the tune of $300 million! Now listen to this… A Time magazine poll reported that 74% of those asked, believed that it was God's will to clone Human beings! (10.3.1997). YHWH makes it clear that only He create life – Deut 32:39, 1 Sam 2:6. Cloning is playing God

The news that scientists had grown headless frog embryos led by Dr. Patrick Dixon, author of a new book, The Genetic Revolution, said that it is only a matter of five to ten years before scientists will grow partial foetuses to harvest human organs for transplant (this statement was made in 1998). Are they planning to clone headless human beings in a factory for the harvesting of body parts? (The author also predicts that not long from now, countries will be introducing legislation to institute the death penalty by guillotine; and in so doing, fulfil Rev 20:4. Is that why America is mass-producing man-sized guillotines? Interesting… no organ is damaged when this type of penalty is used, and the organs are then perfect for transplants.)

Yes designed human beings are a reality, which leaves us with the question: "Will cloned human beings have souls?" Personally, this is what satan's strategy is, to make human beings like cyborgs or machines – designed and programmed to be enslaved to worship him alone. Furthermore, more and more people from all over the world are requesting that their amputated heads (or their entire bodies) be stored in liquid nitrogen till such time when scientists can resurrect them back to life, never to die again. There are currently two thousand heads stored in a Cryonics laboratory in Brasilia – which is only one of the many places around the world that render this service.

Man is speedily reaching the point where he thinks that he is self-sufficient and that YHWH is not needed anymore. The attitude is adopted that man can do it by himself. Satan tells man that YHWH is not the Creator that gives eternal life; man himself can create and prolong life indefinitely. Satan is counterfeiting YHWH once again. His final attempt is to create and prolong life. This is a warning to mankind not to play God. Only YHWH can give life and prolong life indefinitely, it is not meant for man to live forever in his sinful state. YHWH's "Tree of Life" is the only source of life; do not rely on what the world tells you. Man wants to become the "Tree of Life" and satan wants to become the Creator. YHWH is going to pour out His wrath on them!

Tahv letter – Numerical value 400

Meaning (tahv): = Absolute truth; perfection.

Embedded in the Chapter:The fundamental meaning of 'tahv' is 'final truth and perfection'. It is said to be represented in the terminal letter of the Hebrew word 'emet', which means 'truth'. It is taught that this concept (like the plan of YHWH) encompasses the entire aleph-beit. That is 'aleph' the first letter, beginning with creation and the king – then proceeding through the metaphoric truth of the aleph-beit, one arrives at the tahv (the last letter), the symbol of final redemption and universal restoration, and with 'mem' near the center.

The ancient Jewish Rabbis taught that truth is absolute. However, we know that absolute truth is only found in the person of the Lord Y’shua, the Messiah. Yochanan recorded this concept in a single statement made by our Lord – please read John 14:6 and Psalm 119:160.

It is also taught that the tahv is the seal of YHWH, who marks His elect on the forehead with 'the mark of truth'. This is borne out of Ezekiel’s vision of the slaying throughout Jerusalem – Ezek 9:3-4. In the original Hebrew the 'mark' that is placed upon the foreheads of those mourning over Jerusalem is the tahv, a visible mark by the scribe-angel. The Hebrew text in Ezek 9:4 shows the word 'mark' as 'tahv' and is literally translated from Hebrew as the Hebrew letter 'tahv' and not 'oth' as 'mark'! This is YHWH’s ordained mark of protection and possession for the faithful! This was a prophecy of Messiah’s future work!!!

And lo and behold, in the final chapter we still get the same consistent pattern, with the very last Hebrew letter also embedded in the last chapter. The meaning of tahv is truth (and that is exactly what the Ruach says in verse 6), "these sayings are faithful and true"!

But another meaning of tahv is perfection. Tahv is the metaphor for the total fulfillment of Messiah’s finished work in the life of the individual. Thus the mark in ink is the letter of truth the final letter of the Hebrew aleph-beit – the seal of YHWH! As we look towards the future, we are immediately reminded of the 144,000 from the 12 Tribes of Israel mentioned in chapter 7. It seems most likely that they are sealed with YHWH’s own mark of "truth and perfection", an identification mark. In the days of Ezekiel (570 BCE) the tahv was not drawn in block style as it is today. The block style of Hebrew was only developed after the the Babylonian captivity, and was then in common use by the first century. The ancient Hebrew letter was drawn in an "x" and sometimes "+";or even as the classic crucifiction stake "". In other words, Jerusalem’s faithful was sealed by having a sign of the "crucifixion stake" on their foreheads. This also concludes that Y’shua died on a tahv; in other words, He died on and for the "absolute truth". We will experience perfection to the fullest in the life hereafter, when we shall reign for ever and ever (verse 5). But most of all, we will stare 'perfection' in the face (Rev 22:4) – "and they shall see his face and his name shall be on their forehead"!

Y’shua then, in the closing verses, made this profound statement: "I am alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last". Let’s transfer the key words now to Hebrew: "I am aleph and tahv, the beginning and the end, the first and the last". Y’shua opened the Book of Revelation with this statement, and He is again closing the Book with this statement. Why? Because He is the Aleph and the Tahv. Y’shua is the Creator and Perfector; and here (once again) we witness the divine work of the Ruach, with the Hebrew aleph-beit undoubtedly embedded                                  in the 22 chapters of the Revelation of Y’shua HaMashiach!

My prayer to you, my Beloved Friend, is that YHWH’s Ruach will give you the passion and desire to study Scripture from a Hebraic perspective to declare it to the world!

What is Jewish Eschatology?

Introduction

"…there are reported to be approximately 41,000 Christian denominations" according to Wikipedia, the most powerful Encyclopedia world-wide. Each one of these Christian denominations has its own way of looking at how the end-times will unfold. The question is: Who is wrong and who is right?

There is only one way to solve this problem… Y’shua was a Jew and to make any sense of Scripture, and especially the end-time Scripture, is to view it through His Jewish eyes and not via any of the 38,000 various pastors’ eyes—which is downright endless confusion.

What is Jewish Eschatology?

Jewish eschatology is concerned with the Moshiach (the Jewish Messiah), the continuation of the Davidic line, and Olam Haba (Hebrew for "the world to come"; i.e., the afterlife), and the resurrection of the dead. Eschatology, generically, is the area of theology and philosophy concerned with the final events in the history of the world. It is the ultimate destiny of humanity and related concepts.

What is the meaning of the word Eschatology?

Eschatology is derived from the Greek word, "eschatos", which is defined by Thayer's Greek lexicon as:

1) extreme,

a) last in time or in place,

b) last in a series of places,

c) last in a temporal succession; and

2) the last,

a) referring to time,

b) of space, the uttermost part, the end, of the earth;

c) of rank, grade of worth, i.e. lowest.

How many main views are there on Eschatology?

Eschatology is one of the most misunderstood and ignored parts of the Bible and because there are many different beliefs about the Millennial Reign and Second Coming of our Messiah.

Most scholars in the world and most institutes globally, as well as the internet, know only about four ways. Believers would then adopt one of these, depending on which one he/she favours. But there is a fifth one and only a handful Scholars globally still teach it today, which is Midrashic Eschatology. The others are (will be explained shortly):

1)  Preterists,

2)  Historicists,

3)  Poemiscists/Spiritualists (also known as Idealists, Historical-Spiritualists); and lastly

4)  Futurists.

Must we study Prophetic Scripture of not?

Y’shua was a Rabbi and Sha’ul (Paul) was a Rabbi. They used the same means of exegesis (interpreting scripture) used by other ancient Rabbis also of the second temple period. The question lingers: must we study bible prophecy, and how does Y’shua want us to interpret it?

The church in general bellows, "leave prophecy out!" This is exactly the strategy of Satan. Confuse the church concerning the Second Coming—but YHWH says: "Do not despise prophecies" (1 Thes 5:20) and also in 2 Peter 1:19-21: "and we have the more established prophetic Word, in which you do well to take heed, as to a lamp shining in a murky place, until day dawns and the Light-bearing One rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that every prophecy of Scripture did not come into being of its own interpretation; for prophecy was not at any time borne by the will of man, but being borne along by the Holy Spirit, holy men of God spoke".

Should we take Prophetic Scripture literally?

There are ±31,000 total verses in the whole Bible. There are ±3,900 verses in the Old Covenant and ±1,500 verses in the New Covenant on prophecies—a total of 5,400 verses! That means that, on average, every fifth verse relates to prophecy.

Sixty-five (65) prophecies were spoken over Y’shua’s First Coming: His birth, His life, His death, etc.—all to do with his First Coming. All sixty-five were fulfilled with unprecedented accuracy! Why will the rest on His Second Coming and those on the end times not also be literally fulfilled (324 Messianic propecies – 65 = 259)?

It boggles the mind how any Believer can take the First Coming’s prophecies literally, but the Second Coming’s prophecies are all of a suddenly spiritualized! It is gross inconsistency, and any Scholar doing this is brutally misleading the flock! Prophecy must be properly studied and understood! We have no choice.

What is Midrashic Eschatology?

Midrashic Eschatology is not the Western idea of prophecy: it is different. The Western idea of prophecy is "prediction and fulfillment". They absolutely did not think in such a way in Y’shua’s time.

To Y’shua, Sha’ul and the other Rabbis, "prophecy was a pattern"... Y’shua gives a classic example in Matt 24:15 "…When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)". Y’shua was quoting from Daniel (9:27). That literally happened with Antiochus Epiphanes 160 years earlier (B.C.), when he desecrated the temple by slaughtering a pig on the altar! Y’shua knew that it happened, because Y’shua himself celebrated the Feast of Hanukkah (John 10:22-23), which is the Feast of Lights/Dedication. The origin of this festival was when the Jewish Maccabeen brothers cleansed the temple from Epiphanes. Here Y’shua is using Preterism—not in the way the Liberal or Evangelical Preterists do—but He used the form of Preterism. In other words, He took something that happened already and made it prophecy and said it will happen again.

Secondly, Y’shua uses Historicism, meaning something ongoing that happens through history. Read Josephus when the Holy of Holies was destroyed. Look at the Temple Mount when the temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. The Romans put a pagan statue on the Temple Mount and began to worship it. The early Christians thought it was "the abomination of desolation" that was spoken of by Daniel and Y’shua! Also, in April-July 130 A.D., Hadrian began building his temple of Capitoline Jupiter atop the Temple Mount and Jerusalem was renamed Aelia Capitolina, another "abomination of desolation". Later, Emperor Julian the Apostate, Constantine’s nephew, tried to repaganise the Roman Empire. He tried to reverse Y’shua’s prophecy of "There shall not be left here one stone upon another that shall not be thrown down" by allowing the Jews, in 361-363 A.D., to build a "third temple". All this was an "abomination of desolation". Today, once again, the Dome of the Rock (the Mosque of Omar) stands on the Temple Mount—yet another "abomination of desolation". Why is it another "abomination of desolation"? Because there are 16 references in the Qur’an that say God has no Son. The Biblical reference in 1 John 2:22 we read, "Who is a liar but he that denieth that Y’shua is the Messiah? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son." See, again another "abomination of desolation": in other words, historicism is also true. Each fulfillment is a type or a shadow of the ultimate one to come; that is how Y’shua understood and taught prophecy.

But Poemiscism is also true. John wrote the Book of Revelation to encourage the church that he is the last apostle being martyred, and he was there to encourage the church that Y’shua will eventually come back. People had serious doubts and expected Y’shua to still come in their lifetime. So Poemiscism (encouragement) is also true!

But Futurism, the original prediction and a literal fulfillment in the future is also true!

Those in Y’shua’s time believed and knew that prophecy is multifaceted fulfillment. Each fulfillment is a picture of the final one; that is the way prophecy was handled by the people who wrote the New Covenant. All interpretations are thus correct as we have proven, but be very careful of those who only teach the

1) Preterist view,

2) Historicist view,

3) Poemiscist view, or the

4) Futurist view by itself.

Midrashic interpretation, the fifth way, includes the 1) Preterist view, 2) Historicist view, 3) Poemiscist view, 4) Futurist view. It is the only accurate interpretation of prophecy to make any sense of Eschatology. Futurism is the closest to the truth, but it is only part of the truth.

You need to understand Eschatology from a Jewish perspective—from a Midrashic perspective, through the eyes of Y’shua! The Western Church has only understood prophecy generally up to now! We need to seriously get away from aberrational eschatology!

The origin of Midrashic Eschatology

The interpretations understood by Jewish rabbis like Y’shua and Sha’ul in the First Century were largely based on something called Midrash. The basic principles of Midrash were listed in the original seven points[110], called midoth, of Rabbi Hillel[111] (the Seven Rules are listed at the back of this booklet). Hillel is regarded as the greatest of the Hebrew sages of the Second Temple period and was the grandfather of Rabbi Gamaliel, the tutor of Sha’ul, who defended the rights of Jewish believers in the Book of Acts[112].

As the Gospel spread throughout the Greco-Roman world, the Church began to lose sight of its Jewish roots. This, of course, proved increasingly tragic for the Jews—the subsequent atrocities perpetuated throughout the centuries in the name of Y’shua are virtually incomprehensible to the modern Christian who hasn't done his homework.

But it was also tragic for the Church as it abandoned its Jewish heritage and understanding. The increasing influence of the Greek worldview began to redefine Biblical truth on the basis of the philosophies of Aristotle and Plato, instead of the context that produced it.

Centuries later, the early Puritans recognized the limitations of Protestant hermeneutics, as did the later Plymouth Brethren who sought a proper understanding of Biblical typology. In the 19th century, the Plymouth Brethren tried to construct a model of Biblical interpretation that emphasized typology from the viewpoint of Old Covenant foreshadowings of the New Covenant. This may have been the closest that the predominantly Gentile Church has ever come to returning to its Jewish roots in the area of interpretation.

In a similar manner, early Methodism, realizing the failures of Protestantism, attempted to restore missions to the Church; and the early Pentecostals tried to restore the charismatic gifts in their attempt to return to a New Covenant Christianity. The Puritans, John Robinson and John Lightfoot, were among the first to recognize the need to restore a Jewish approach to Biblical interpretation along Midrashic lines with its sensitivities to typological patterns.

Since that time, most Judeo-Christian scholarship has generally focused on the Judaic background of the Gospels. This probably commenced with the Jewish Christians such as Franz Delitzche and Alfred Edersheim. Today, the trend continues in the work of Arnold Fruchtenbaum, Yakov Prasch, Chuck Missler and others. Such scholarship is vital, and that is why we at HRTI designed this field for formal studies from Certificate to PhD.

What does the Jewish concept of "Midrash" mean?

I have been teaching for many years (in opposition by most) that Biblical prophecy is to be approached with the following in mind: there are prophetic patterns or cycles that repeat themselves, leading to an ultimate fulfillment. The past fulfillment helps us to understand the future fulfillment. Also, the many layers of figurative meaning throughout Scripture must only illustrate doctrine, and not be the basis for it. This principle of interpretation has been confirmed through researching the Jewish hermeneutical method of Midrash.

Simply put, Midrash uses the grammatical-historical (literal) approach to interpreting the Scriptures, but it also allows for allegorical (figurative) interpretation as well. It takes the various texts of Scripture that deal with similar themes or topics, and those that have a common thread; and it interprets them in light of each other using allegory and typology, but this is used to illuminate clear doctrine rather than as a foundation for doctrine.

Midrash is layers of truth

Midrash allows for multiple meanings in many layers of truth, but there is always a primary or foundational truth that the other layers are built on. This is especially the case in relation to prophecy. It is not just a matter of prediction, but also of a pattern or cycle that repeats itself in history, which leads to the focal point in YHWH's plan—the ultimate fulfillment.

The Ruach of YHWH (Holy Spirit) uses Midrash

It is a fact that in the writing of the New Covenant, midrash is used by the Ruach HaKodesh as a means of interpreting the Old Covenant. Midrashic principles and interpretation were used consistently during the time of Y’shua and the apostles. The school of Rabbi Hillel was the foremost in using this method, and this is where the apostle Sha’ul (Paul) was trained under Rabbi Gamaliel, the grandson of Hillel. This was the method the Pharisees used to interpret Scripture.

Y’shua and the teachings of the Pharisees

Now, although Y’shua often condemned the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, it was not usually for their interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures or their foundational doctrines. Rather, He was primarily condemning their self-righteous spirit, along with their man-made rabbinic traditions that actually nullified the true Word and Torah (Law) of YHWH that raised the traditions above YHWH's Word. Y’shua never condemned their teachings; in fact, Y’shua instructs us to follow it: "…`On the seat of Moses sat down the scribes and the Pharisees; all, then, as much as they may say to you to observe, observe and do, but according to their works do not, for they say, and do not;"[113] Be that as it may, Y’shua’s teaching as well as Sha’ul's is far closer to Pharisaic teaching; more than any other Jewish school or any of the 38,000 Christian doctrines.

Examples to prove that Midrashic Eschatology is the only sound form of Eschatology

What follows here are examples that reveal the midrashic principle of interpretation in Biblical prophecy, showing that prophecy is to be viewed as repeating patterns or cycles that are leading to an ultimate fulfillment. These examples will confirm that Y’shua as well as Sha’ul, Yochanan (John) and the other apostles, interpreted Scripture this way; that is, this is the Divine principle for interpreting and understanding Scripture as used by the Ruach HaKodesh. It is an aid to spiritually understanding the Scriptures.

The first example shall be quite detailed because this is an extremely important prophetic pattern that is so often misunderstood by many Christians - that of Elijah and the Two Witnesses. This will also shed light on the other examples, which shall be much shorter.

Midrash Example 1: The Coming of Elijah and the Two Witnesses

"See, I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of YHWH comes. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse."[114]

"The disciples asked him, "Why then do the teachers of the Torah (Pharisees) say that Elijah must come first?" Y’shua replied, "To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands." Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist."[115]

We can see clearly here that Y’shua agreed with the rabbinic interpretation of the coming of Elijah before the judgment of the Day of the Lord, just as the prophet Malachi had stated. Now the term 'Day of the Lord' (or Day of YHWH) in the Old Covenant is referring to a particular era of YHWH's judgment and wrath that is poured out on a particular nation or city— especially Israel or Jerusalem. There have been many Days of the Lord, but there is the ultimate Day of the Lord still yet to come, which is the ultimate Judgment Day for all nations[116].

The prophecy in Malachi is primarily referring to the Day of Vengeance for Israel and Jerusalem due to their rejection of the Messiah (the striking of the land with a curse), which occurred in 70 AD. This was the official end of the Old Covenant era and natural Israel's phasing out of the land, which occurred within 40 years of Y’shua’s ministry. Therefore, the Temple and the city of Jerusalem were destroyed as prophesied.

Y’shua had previously prophesied that this destruction would come upon that generation in the First Century, in fulfillment of all that is written concerning natural Israel[117]. He also said that all the Prophets and the Torah were prophesying until John the Baptist, who was the special messenger who introduced the Messiah and His kingdom.

"From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. For all the Prophets and the Torah prophesied until John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. He who has ears, let him hear."[118]

As we learned above, Elijah was to appear before the great Day of the Lord to cause the nation to repent, yet Y’shua also said that Elijah had already come! John the Baptist was this Elijah. Here is what the angel Gabriel said to Zechariah, John's father:

"Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous - to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."[119]

This shows that the prophecy does not need the literal prophet Elijah of the past to fulfill it—nor does it require that this Elijah should even perform any miracles, as John never performed any miraculous sign! It is figurative of a particular role and spirit—the role and spirit of a forerunner or messenger of the Messiah. The nation of Israel as a whole rejected this 'Elijah' as well as Y’shua Himself; and therefore the land was cursed as Malachi predicted, and Israel was sent into captivity by the Romans. This captivity can only truly end when individual Jews accept and see that Y’shua of Nazareth is the promised Messiah—the Man Who is the Branch of David. Then they will say, "Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the YHWH."[120]

Yet Y’shua says that another Elijah is still coming before the Day of His Return, the ultimate Day of the Lord (Matt 17:11). The ministry of this Elijah will bring about the Restoration of all things. This is being fulfilled in the Ecclesia (Church) of YHWH, the Body of Messiah, especially as the end of the age draws near.

The Two Witnesses

The vision of the Book of Revelation (which is actually the Unveiling of Y’shua the Messiah and His kingdom) contains about 7 or 8 smaller visions. These are mini-parables and allegories which reveal various things about YHWH's plan in this present age and beyond, using spiritual signs and symbols. Here is one such example.

Revelation 11 gives us the vision of the Two Witnesses or Prophets. Two is the number of testimony and witness. If you take careful note of the description of their powers, you will find that they resemble two other Old Covenant prophets; namely, Elijah and Moshe.

If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone who wants to harm them must die. These men have power to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want.[121]

This is referring to the Torah (Law) and the Prophets being fulfilled in Y’shua and His Body Ecclesia - Elijah represents the Prophets, and Moshe represents the Torah. Y’shua is described as 'a prophet like Moshe'[122]  because He is the ultimate Prophet and Servant of YHWH Who is leading His people out of the slavery of sin and darkness to the promised land of the kingdom of Light, the land of their inheritance. He is also the One Who is giving[123] (and will be giving) YHWH's Torah to the people, the One Who is Leader and Judge of His people. Yet whereas Moshe represents the Old Covenant, Y’shua represents the New Covenant. The Overcomers in Y’shua are said to be singing the song of Moshe and the Lamb in Rev 15:2-4.

The Apostles of the First Century actually performed similar miraculous signs as did Moshe and Elijah to confirm to the people that they were officially commissioned of YHWH to be His prophets. These Two Witnesses (or martyrs, for that is the meaning of witnesses in the Greek) are symbolising the true servants of YHWH in the Body of Y’shua, His prophets who speak out His Word; many of whom have been murdered because of their faith. Ultimately, these are the ones who partake of the First Resurrection, when 'the breath of life will enter them' and they will 'ascend to heaven in a cloud'.

They are also referred to as 'the Two Olive Trees and the Two Lampstands that stand before the Lord of the earth' (Rev 11:4). This is a reference to Zech 4:14. In Zechariah 4, the two anointed ones are referring to Joshua the high priest, and Zerubbabel the governour. They were the primary leaders of Israel during the first stage of the restoration of Israel after the Babylonian Captivity. It could also have symbolised Haggai and Zechariah, who were the two primary prophets at that same time. This vision originally had to do with the rebuilding of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, restoring the ultimate Lampstand (the 7-branched Menorah) to Israel—which would be supplied by the olive oil of YHWH's Spirit.

In New Covenant terms, though, this is symbolising the building of the spiritual temple of YHWH (the Ecclesia) in the Messiah. The vision of the Two Witnesses/Prophets pictures the Elijah/Moses ministry of the Body of Y’shua in this Church Era.

It is not a coincidence that it was Moshe and Elijah who appeared in the vision of the transfiguration of Y’shua upon the mountain, witnessed by Peter, James and John; and it was immediately after this event that the disciples asked Y’shua about Elijah coming first (Matt 17:1-13). All of these things are connected and are loaded with spiritual meaning.

Three and a Half Years

It is also not a coincidence (as nothing is in Scripture) that the length of Y’shua’s ministry is related to an event in Elijah's time.

During the time of the Prophet Elijah's ministry, there was an awesome sign that was given to Israel and the surrounding area to show the power as well as the judgment of YHWH to the people. Through Elijah's prophecy and prayer, YHWH withheld rain from the land for three and a half years, causing a great famine throughout that area (1 Kings 17:1; 18:1). Both Y’shua and Yacov (James) confirm this.

"I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah's time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land."[124]

"Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."[125]

It was also prophesied by Amos that there would be a famine for hearing the Word of YHWH before the coming of the Messiah (Amos 8:11-12). This was fulfilled during the early centuries that led up to the time of Y’shua's First Coming, when there wasn't any official prophet of YHWH sent to the people (known as the 400 years silent 'inter-testamental period'). Yet there has been a greater spiritual famine of hearing the Word of Truth during the Church Era.

Now even though it is not clearly stated, it can be calculated that the length of Y’shua’s earthly ministry was three and a half years as He attended three Passover Festivals. He officially began His ministry at His baptism when He was about 30 years of age (Luke 3:21-23).

This three and a half year period is being alluded to in the amazing prophecy of the 70 Weeks in Dan 9:27. Y’shua ministry began the final half of the 70th Week (half of a week (7) is 3.5). His death, burial, resurrection and the coming of the Ruach HaKodesh at Pentecost fulfilled the 70 Weeks (or Sevens) of 490 years.

Consequently, since the coming of the Spirit to begin building the spiritual Temple of YHWH; that is, the Ecclesia (or Church) of Y’shua, we have entered a figurative three and a half year period (1,260 days or 42 lunar months) which mirrors Y’shua's ministry, as well as the ministry of Elijah.

This brings us full circle to the Two Witnesses of Revelation 11 on a metaphorical level:

“And I will be endowing My two witnesses and they will be prophesying a thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth."[126]

We are also told that these Two Prophets are killed by the Beast (representing the Roman Empire and the world system in general) and their corpses are linked to that great city of secret Babylon and earthly Jerusalem, the same ones who murdered Y’shua. There is even mention of three and a half days of death before the Prophets are resurrected to life in front of all mankind, which also links in with Y’shua’s death and resurrection on the third day. As it is happened with the Head, so it is with the Body.

And their corpses will be at the square of the great city which, spiritually, is being called Sodom and Egypt, where their Lord, also, was crucified. And those out of the peoples and tribes and languages and nations are observing their corpses three days and a half, and they are not letting their corpses be placed into a tomb. And those dwelling on the earth are rejoicing over them and are making merry, and will be sending presents to one another, seeing that these two prophets torment those dwelling on the earth.

And after the three days and a half the spirit of life out of God entered into them, and they stand on their feet. And great fear falls on those beholding them. And they hear a loud voice out of heaven saying to them, "Ascend here!" And they ascended into heaven in a cloud, and their enemies behold them.[127]

Another way of viewing Revelation 11, in accordance with the Historicist interpretation, is that the Two Witnesses symbolise the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. The Old Covenant is represented by Moshe, and the New Covenant (due to John the Baptist fulfilling the role) is represented by Elijah. The Scriptures officially finished their testimony when the New Covenant was officially canonised in the fourth century AD. Shortly after this, the Antichrist Beast of the Holy Roman Empire arose to dominate the world for a period of 1,260 years (a day-for-a-year). This caused the truth of the Bible and its adherents (the Two Witnesses) to be killed or silenced, while at the same time they were prophesying in sackcloth. Yet at the end of this period, the Bible was publicly resurrected and the judgments of YHWH were vindicated on His enemies.

It was during this same period (stated as 42 months) that the true Church (the Holy City of New Jerusalem) was trampled by the nations. It had the appearance of desolation due to the religious and secular power of the Empire of Christendom. Nevertheless, through the fires of the Protestant Reformation, the Testimony of YHWH gradually arose with new power.

As you can see, this subject (or theme) of the coming of Elijah is more involved than first meets the eye; but the thing that needs to be emphasised here is this: the prophecy doesn't just have one fulfillment—it has a number of fulfillments, both literally and figuratively—according to the prophetic pattern and according to Midrash.

Midrash Example 2: The Abomination of Desolation

"It set itself up to be as great as the Prince of the host; it took away the daily sacrifice from him, and the place of his sanctuary was brought low. Because of rebellion, the host of the saints and the daily sacrifice were given over to it. It prospered in everything it did, and truth was thrown to the ground. Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to him, "How long will it take for the vision to be fulfilled—the vision concerning the daily sacrifice, the rebellion that causes desolation, and the surrender of the sanctuary and of the host that will be trampled underfoot?" He said to me, "It will take 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary will be reconsecrated..."

"...His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation".[128]

These two segments in Daniel were fulfilled in the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes during the 2nd century BC. It involved idolatrous images and sacrifices being set up in the Temple in Jerusalem, and all manner of unclean acts and murderous practices.

Then almost two centuries later, Y’shua also prophesied that this 'abomination that causes desolation'would occur in relation to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in the 1st century AD. This was fulfilled in the Jewish/Roman war of 66-70 AD when the Jewish zealots used the Temple as a base for their murderous, unclean acts, even against their own people. In 66 A.D. procurator Florus provoked the Jews through a variety of activities that ranged from stealing silver from the Temple to desecrating the vestments of the High Priest.

"So when you see standing in the holy place 'the abomination that causes desolation,' spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand—then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains."[129]

Then Romans laid siege to the city and in the year 70 A.D. destroyed the Second Temple—another "abomination that causes desolation".

Aelia Capitolina was the title that the Romans gave to the quasi-city that they established on the site of Jerusalem after its destruction by Roman legions under Titus in 70 A.D. (exactly as prophesied by Y’shua 40 years before in Matt 24:1-2). The name was concocted after the Second Jewish revolt of 132-135 to honour the emperor Hadrian and the pagan gods of the Roman trinity: Jupiter, Juno and Minerva. A temple to Jupiter was constructed right on the Temple Mount, and idols of Roman gods were erected throughout the city in a deliberate and malicious violation of YHWH’s law—another "abomination that causes desolation".

Islam’s Dome of the Rock was then erected on the Temple Mount and was completed in 691 AD—yet another "abomination that causes desolation".

Yet in another sense, the actions of certain leaders of Christendom are also an 'abomination that cause desolation' in relation to the spiritual Temple of YHWH—His people; and YHWH's resulting judgment has (and will) fall upon those who desecrate His Temple.

"Don't you know that you yourselves are YHWH's Temple and that YHWH's Spirit lives in you? If anyone defile YHWH's Temple, YHWH will destroy him; for YHWH's Temple is sacred, and you are that Temple".[130]

But the Antichrist will come and also declares himself YHWH in the rebuilt Jewish Temple not far from now, "Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. 4 He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God's temple, proclaiming himself to be God".[131]

Again, Jewish Eschatology is a pattern, and it will continue until the ultimate fulfillment by this Antichrist.

Midrash Example 3: The Sign of the Maiden with Child

This is the last example I will be using, as I think I’ve made my point.

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin (Hebrew maiden) will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."[132]

"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us.""[133]

There is a lot of controversy over this prophecy. In the original Hebrew of Isaiah 7:14 the word almah is used instead of the usual word for virgin - bethuwlah. The word almah means essentially 'a maiden or young girl', but not necessarily a virgin; whereas bethuwlah means essentially 'a virgin'.

Now, it is evident from a casual reading of Isaiah chapters 7-8 that the sign of the son 'Emmanuel' was fulfilled in Isaiah's son Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz (figuratively called Emmanuel by YHWH). The prophetess who conceived him was Isaiah's wife, who was evidently a young woman; hence a maiden (see 8:1-10, 18). But she was not a virgin, for they already had a son— Shear-Jashub (7:3). So actually, this goes to prove the accuracy of YHWH's word rather than undermine it.

Then in the New Covenant, Matthew (under inspiration of the Ruach HaKodesh) uses the Greek word for 'virgin' when quoting the above text in relation to Y’shua’s birth—no doubt using the Septuagint version (Greek translation of the Old Covenant) rather than the Masoretic text. Nevertheless, this does not alter the original prophecy, because a 'maiden' could also be a virgin; and in Miryam’s (Mary’s) case, she was a virgin, so the word for virgin is used. The Sign of Emmanuel (meaning YHWH with us) had its ultimate fulfillment in Y’shua the Messiah in a very literal manner.

It could also be said that the spiritual Body of Y’shua, His people (true Church), are those who are spiritually born anew as sons of a virgin; who with Y’shua, will become the full expression of Emmanuel in the earth.

These examples are classic Midrash and the exact way Y’shua and the other New Covenant writers taught!

Midrashic Eschatology in a nutshell

All the above examples have had at least one fulfillment in the past, and yet they also have a greater fulfillment in the future. Some are being fulfilled in the present also, either literally or figuratively. Yet take note that they all have more than one fulfillment.

The name YHWH literally incorporates all three tenses of PAST, PRESENT and FUTURE.  He is the Lord God Almighty who WAS, IS and IS TO COME.  Y’shua is the same YESTERDAY, TODAY and FOR THE AGES.

Prophecy relates to all three: past, present and future; for the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Y’shua, Who was, is and is coming—the Almighty (Rev 19:10; 1:8). He is the Great I AM Who encompasses all time.

Therefore, Midrashic Eschatology is a pattern, not just prediction

The western mind views prophecy merely as prediction and fulfillment. The Jewish mind saw prophecy as a pattern being recapitulated, where a pattern of events illuminates a thematic replay in the future. The "western" (Gentile) misunderstandings are crucial in understanding the errors of Dominionism[134], Restorationism[135], and Preterism[136] which continue to confuse current eschatology.

Among the illuminating warnings are the attribution by Matthew of the return of Joseph, Miryam (Mary) and the infant Y’shua from Egypt[137] to the quote from Hosea.[138] There is no rational way to view the Hosea passage as Messianic in the traditional sense. The academic overemphasis on context seems to break down when viewed too narrowly. The answer is pattern, not just prediction. Matthew's allusion to Jeremiah regarding Herod's murder of the babies in Bethlehem is another example.[139]

The richness and understanding that accompanies the rediscovery of the Midrashic hermeneutic is one of the most exciting aspects of studying the Old Covenant.

For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope (Rom 15:4).

Midrashic Eschatology pattern: Joseph as a Type

The life of the Messiah was prefigured by Joseph, the son of Jacob, in Genesis[140]:

As Joseph was betrayed by his Jewish brothers into the hands of Gentiles and YHWH turned that betrayal around and made it the means for all Israel and all the world to be saved,

so too Y’shua was betrayed by His Jewish brothers into Gentile hands with the same - but on a cosmic basis.

Joseph was betrayed by his brother Yehuda (Judah) for twenty pieces of silver.

Y’shua, the son of Joseph, was also betrayed specifically by Yehuda (Judas) for thirty pieces of silver.[141]

Joseph was condemned with two criminals - one of whom lived while the other died.[142]

Y’shua was condemned with two criminals - one of whom lived, while the other died.[143]

Joseph was taken from a place of condemnation to a place of exaltation - after a three-day interval.[144]

- as was Y’shua in His death, burial and resurrection.[145]

Upon his exaltation, every knee bowed to Joseph

as every knee shall one day bow to Y’shua.[146]

Upon his exaltation, Joseph took a Gentile bride

- as does Y’shua, being the Bridegroom.

Joseph was not recognized by his Jewish brothers at his first coming, but at the second they wept over him.

Y’shua was not recognized by His Jewish brothers at His First Coming; but at the Second Coming they, too, shall weep.

Joseph was beloved of his father

- as is Y’shua.

Joseph was despised for his prophetic gift;

Y’shua was despised for who He claimed to be.

Joseph was falsely accused at an unfair trial,

as was Y’shua.

Joseph's cloak was taken as proof that he was no longer in the pit,

as Y’shua's burial cloak was taken as proof that He was no longer in the tomb.

Midrashic Eschatology – more pattern: Coming Out of Egypt

Just as the descendants of Jacob ultimately come out of Egypt, Sha’ul tells us we, too, have come out of Egypt.[147] Pharaoh, worshiped as a god by the Egyptians, becomes a metaphor for the devil who is the god of this world. Just as Moshe (Moses) made a covenant using blood sprinkled on the people—Y’shua, a prophet like Moshe, makes a new covenant in His blood covering His people. Just as Moshe led the children of Israel through the Red Sea, Y’shua leads us out of the world through mikveh (baptism).

The failure of Moses at Meribah in striking "the rock" the second time takes on an additional significance: he was to strike on the first occasion, but not on the second when he had to ask "the rock". Had he followed YHWH's instructions more precisely, his obedience would have anticipated the First and Second Comings of "the Rock that was Y’shua."[148]

In the book of Revelation, we see the same judgments against Egypt replayed in the final judgments of YHWH upon a sinful world. Just as Pharaoh's magicians were able to counterfeit the miracles of Moshe and Aaron, so the Antichrist and the False Prophet will counterfeit the miracles of Y’shua and His witnesses.

The Song of Moshe sung by Miryam in the Exodus narrative is sung again in Revelation, where the destruction of Pharaoh and his army are seen as a type of the judgment of Satan and his demon cohorts. Just as Joseph's bones were brought out of Egypt, so the dead in Messiah Y’shua will rise first when we come out of the world at Y’shua’s return.

The Exodus of Y’shua from Egypt in Matthew's nativity narrative fits precisely into the same pattern following the same theme. A wicked king is again judged (this time, Herod) and the Messiah comes out of Egypt where he had fled in time of trouble. Here Y’shua is pictured as the embodiment of Israel in much the same way as the Church is the Body of Messiah Y’shua.

Old Covenant citations such as "Israel, My Glory" and "Israel, My Firstborn" may now be understood for what they are: allusions to the Messiah.

Approaching Matthew's nativity story from this Jewish perspective, instead of a western Hellenistic one, we can better understand how and why Y’shua’s words as found in the text of Hosea 11:1 "When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt" apply to Y’shua upon the death of Herod.

A serious caution

A serious caution regarding the Midrashic hermeneutic stems from the misunderstanding and misuse of it by liberal theological writers. The Midrash never uses typology or allegory as a basis for doctrine, only as an illustration of it. Sha’ul's Midrash on Sarah and Hagar in Galatians[149] and the Epistle to the Hebrews as a commentary on Leviticus are two examples.

Thus Enoch, who was translated before the flood, was "pre-flood" in his eschatology—not post-flood or mid-flood![150] But we at HRTI don't base our views on this illustration alone; you need to read the booklet, "A Hebraic Perspective: Is there a Pre-Tribulation Rapture or Not" and decide for yourself; as "We Inform, You Choose" ☺.

Conclusion

Midrash interprets prophecy as a cyclical pattern of historical repetition, meaning prophecies having multiple fulfillments, with an ultimate fulfillment associated with the Judgment Day, Armageddon, which is the final focal point of the redemptive process.

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       Watcher Ministries:                             Aliens, UFO's, Angels and the Antichrist

To order any other product from Prof WA Liebenberg,

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[1] http://passionfortruth.org, www.nazarenespace.com, http://testeverything.net

[2] Professor C.A.L. Totten (1851-1908) of Yale University

[3] Matt 15:24

[4] Hos 4:6

[5] 2 Tim 2:15

[6] Matt 28:19-20a

[7] Mark 7:13 (NIV)

[8] Hebrew for Paul

[9] Divine Instructions in Righteousness.

[10] Rabbi

[11] 2 Peter 3:15-17

[12] 1 Cor 2:7-8

[13] Jer 17:9

[14] Heb 3:15-18

[15] Heb 8:8

[16] Gen 48:17-19

[17] Exod 19:5-6

[18] Exod 19:8

[19] Exod 24:4-8

[20] Deut 4:27

[21] Deut 30:1-5

[22] Hebrew for Moses

[23] Deut 31:20

[24] Jer 3:8

[25] Isaiah 7:8

[26] 2 Kings 17:18-19

[27] Isaiah 50:1

[28] Hos 1:3-4

[29] Hos 1:6-7

[30] Hos 1:8-9

[31] Hos 1:10-11

[32] Hos 2:1-2

[33] Hos 2:7

[34] Here in Afrikaans derived from Holland and Germany

[35] Mic 2:12

[36] Hos 2:19-20

[37] 1 John 3:4

[38] Deut 24:4

[39] Jer 3:1

[40] Jer 5:7

[41] Eph 6:19

[42] Num 30:7-8

[43] Rom 7:2

[44] Num 30:7-8

[45] 1 Cor 7:39

[46] Jer 3:1

[47] Galatians chapter 1

[48] Rom 16:25-27

[49] Eph 3:6-9

[50] Col 1:25-26

[51] Rom 11:13

[52] Matt 10:6  (CJB)

[53] Matt 15:24  (CJB)

[54] Mark 1:16-18

[55] Jer 16:13, 16

[56] John 10:24-27

[57] John 21:15-17

[58] 1 Peter 1:1

[59] 1 Peter 2:9-10

[60] James 1:1

[61] Matt 10:5-6

[62] Gen 2:23-24

[63] Hebrew Bible, also known as the Old Covenant for Christians

[64] Matt 5:17

[65] 2 Tim 2:15

[66] Instructions

[67] Matt 7:16

[68] Noachide Laws comprise the six Laws which were given to Adam in the Garden of Eden, according to Jewish interpretation of Gen 2:16, and a seventh one, which was added after the Flood of Noah. These are not found mentioned in Scripture in detail and were listed here only to understand the expansion of YHWH’s Torah tree.

[69] Exod 20:8-11

[70] Exod 20:12

[71] Exod 20:2

[72] Exod 19:5-6

[73] Exod 21:2-3,Exod 21:4; Exod 22:1-2, Exod 22:4-5, Exod 22:25

[74] 1 Sam 15:23

[75] James 4:17

[76] 1 John 3:4 – "sin is the transgression of the Law"

[77] Also Deut 12:32, Prov 30:6 Rev 22:18-19

[78] Isaiah 8:20

[79] Mal 3:6 and Heb 13:8

[80] Matt 26:61-64

[81] Mark 7:13: Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition

[82] Roman Catholic Church

[83] The Way

[84] Deut 17:6, 19:15

[85] Gal 5:3

[86] James 2:10

[87] The half-brother of Y’shua

[88] Law

[89] Acronym is short form or a contraction

[90] Also known as the Chumash

[91] Messiah

[92] Karaite Judaism or Karaism means "Readers of the Hebrew Scriptures", or followers / seekers of "Torah or TaNaCh based Judaism" from the Jewish name for the Hebrew Bible, "Miqra"מקרא, from the root "qara"קרא meaning “to read". When interpreting the Tanakh, Karaites strive to adhere to the plain or most obvious meaning of the text.

[93] Midrash (מדרש; plural Midrashim, literally "to investigate" or "study") is a homiletic method of biblical exegesis.

[94] http://www.wsat.org/drusha/knowing_the_mitzvos_of_the_torah.htm

[95] Psalm 35:9-10

[96] Titus 3:1 and also Heb 13:7

[97] Lev 19:29

[98] Deut 5:19

[99] Matt 22:36-37

[100] Wetzel R.C. Dr. (1995) A Chronology of Biblical Christianity, pages 83-84. The Ages Digital Library. The Reformation History Library (Version 2). 83 Retrieved July 24, 2006, from AGES Software. Albany, OR USA

[101]Va'etchanan (וָאֶתְחַנַּן — Hebrew for “and I pleaded”, the first word in the parshah) is the 45th weekly Torah portion (parshah) in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading and the second in the Book of Deuteronomy. It constitutes Deut 3:23–7:11.

[102] David Bauscher's new Peshitta Aramaic-English Interlinear NT.

[103] Note: For any who would like to look up the Aramaic verb usages in Revelation 14:15-16, refer to A Compendious Syriac Dictionary, by J. Payne Smith, page 154, right hand column, 2nd and 3rd entries from the top. The sense is to reap, mow or cut down crops in a field (dry ripe crops).

[104] All Scripture in this section quoted from the KJV.

[105] To Dr Tom McElmurry, who is widely recognised by his peers as an authority on the interpretation of biblical prophecy through meteorological and geological phenomena. By his generous permission, we made extensive use of his material as published in his book, “TRIBULATION BIRTH PANGS FROM THE BOTTOMLESS PIT”. The rest of the material in this book does not necessarily express his opinion, as he may not be in total agreement with some of our interpretations of Bible prophecy. (Tom McElmurry is a pastor who holds University, Seminary, and Institutional degrees in Physical Science, Theology, and Divinity. He was certified as a Meteorologist in 1954 by the United States Air Force; became a member of the American Meteorological Society in 1962; served in the Mid-eastern, African, European, and Far-Eastern Theaters as a Meteorologist; and is a member of the Israel Geological Society. He worked as a tornado forecaster in the Kansas City Severe Weather Service, and as an analyst for the National Security Agency, retiring from the USAF-NSA in 1971. He has taught Physics, Chemistry, Physical Science, Biology, and Earth Science in the public school system as a certified teacher, and has written three books: Tectonic Chaos, Tribulation Triad, and Tribulation Birth Pangs from the Bottomless Pit. He has also written scientific articles published by the USAF and the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society. His wife and family reside in Dardanelle, Arkansas, where he has pastored since 1974. His military and civilian education includes 2,730 clock hours of meteorological instruction in USAF selected institutions of higher learning, and more than 265 University and Seminary hours in undergraduate and graduate studies.)

[106] Queen of Heaven: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_of_heaven_(antiquity)

[107] The Revelation of Yeshua the Messiah by By Watchman Bob from the Last Trump Ministries, pg 99

[108] Please note that the author (Prof WA Liebenberg) is totally against Free Masonary or any secret orginasation and doesn’t endorse Masons here at all.

[109] The Corner-Stone, by René Guénon. Source: Studies in Comparative Religion, Vol. 14, Nos. 3 & 4. (Summer-Autumn, 1980). © World Wisdom, Inc. www.studiesincomparativereligion.com

[110] The fixation of the norms of the Midrash and of halakhic Scripture exposition was first made by Hillel, in the "seven rules of Hillel," which, as is told in one source, he applied on the day in which he overcame the Benei Betheira (Tosef., Sanh. vii., toward the end; Sifra, Introduction, end; Ab. R. N. xxxvii.). On these seven rules rest the thirteen of R. Ishmael; they were epoch-making for the systematic development of the ancient Scripture exposition.

[111] 1.R. N. Longenecker, Biblical Exegesis in the Apostolic Period, Paternoster Press, Carlisle, UK 1995; Cf. J. Bowker, The Targums and Rabbinic Literature, University Press, Cambridge, 1969; J. W. Doeve, Jewish Hermeneutics in the Synoptic Gospels and Acts, Van Gorecum, Assen, 1954. Also, Encyclopedia Judaica, vol 8, pp.366-371; 482f.

[112] Cambridge (Acts 5:34-39).

[113] Matt 23:2-3.

[114] Mal 4:5-6 (NIV) (Names replaced by myself in all verses quoted).

[115] Matt 17:10-13 (NIV).

[116] Joel chapter 3.

[117] Matt 23:34-36; Luke 21:20-24.

[118] Matt 11:12-15 (NIV)

[119] Luke 1:16-17 (NIV)

[120] Matt 23:39.

[121] Rev 11:5-6

[122] Acts 3:22-24; Heb 3:3-6

[123] In Matthew 5-7 Y’shua explained the heart of the Torah to the masses.

[124] Luke 4:25 (NIV)

[125] James 5:17-18 (NIV)

[126] Rev 11:3 (CV)

[127] Rev 11:8-12 (CV)

[128] Dan 8:11-14; 11:31 (NIV)

[129] Matt 24:15-16 (NIV)

[130] 1 Cor 3:16-17

[131] 2 Thes 2:3-4 (NIV)

[132] Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)

[133] Matt 1:22-23 (NIV)

[134] The view that it is the Church's duty and destiny to take over the world as a preparatory step to the Second Coming – THE Church must solve all the problems of the world, only then the Messiah will come.

[135] The view that the Church has "replaced" Israel in YHWH's program of redemption (Cf. Rev 2:9; 3:9).

[136] The view that the entire prophecies of Matthew 24 and Revelation were already fulfilled in the past and that these prophecies are not relevant anymore.

[137] Matt 2:15.

[138] Hosea 11:1

[139] Matt 2:17, 18; Jer 3:15.

[140] Arthur W.; Pink enumerates over 100 ways that Joseph is a "type" of Jesus—See his Gleanings in Genesis, Moody Bible Institute, Chicago IL 1922, or our Expositional Commentary on Genesis.

[141] Y’shua is in all things preeminent (Col 1:18).

[142] Genesis 40.

[143] Matt 27:38; Luke 23:43.

[144] Gen 40:12, 19.

[145] Matt 12:40.

[146] Phil 2:10; Zech 12:10.

[147] 1 Corinthians 10.

[148] 1 Cor 10:4; Exod 17:6; Num 20:11-13; Matt 23:39.

[149] Gal 4:22-26.

[150] I am deeply indebted to Yakov Prasch who opened my understanding to Midrashic Eschatology.