In this study the following are to be considered:
Yisra`el ingathering – Operations Flying Carpet and Shlomo (Solomon) p1, in unbelief and in belief p.2;
One World Church – prophecy of development p.3, Nicolaitans .4,
Modern day Izevel (Jezebel) p.7, Izevel’s teachings p.8
The New Jerusalem Project p.11;
Nicolaitans refutation p.12;
Modern Babylonian exile p.14;
Wormwood p.15, Double Asteroid Redirection Test (Dart) p.15:
The Ester Generation p.15;
References and Credits p.20; ecumenical references p.21.
The End Times/Eschatology
Part I – Present Age Signs
Part (ii) – Redemption
“But when these things begin to happen, look up, and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” (Luke 21:28).
The In-gathering of the Jews
Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, there has been an influx of people into Yisra`el. This is known as aliya or to go up. However, there are several specific episodes of note: Exodus – on 11th. July 1947, the ship Exodus left France with 4515 passengers on board bound for Yisra`el. The British authorities prevented the ship docking and the people were held in a transit camp on Cyprus. It was only after the UK acknowledged the new State of Yisra`el were the released and entered Israel in 1949 (www.israelforever.org ).
Operation Flying Carpet – officially known as Operation On the Wings of an Eagle (al kan-arf nesh-air-reem), 50,000 Jews left Yemen between June 1949 to Sept. 1950 under the supervision of the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). However, the facilities were not in place to receive the Yemenite Jews and many died before reaching Eretz Yisra`el (www.haaretz.com). This was according to the word of Yahuah spoken to His servant Moshe, “‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings (עַל־ כַּנְפֵ֣י נְשָׁרִ֔ים al kan-arf nesh-air-reem), and brought you to myself.’” (Exod. 19:4). This was to show the people of Yisra`el, throughout the world, that Yahuah was, is and forever shall be, Sovereign. (For a detailed discussion upon the difference between Yehudim (Jews) and Yisra`elites please refer to the mini study Adoption – First Generation Assembly)
Operation Solomon – in the early 1970’s thousands of Jews fled persecution from Ethiopia to Sudan. 4000 died and untold numbers of atrocities took place. Between 24th. and 25th. May 1991, 14325 Ethiopian Jews were air-lifted back to Israel. Under the supervision of the JDC and having learnt from past operations, Operation Solomon (Mivtza Shlomo) was carried out successfully over 36 hours (www.jdc.org/news ).
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These migrations were all part of the plan of Yahuah to gather in His people, Yehudim:
i – in unbelief
“and I will bring you out from the peoples, and will gather you out of the countries in which you are scattered, with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with wrath poured out;” (Eze. 20:34). ‘Gather’ #H6908 קָבַץ kar-vats a word to describe harvest. This image of a harvest is important. The people would mark out the area where the first shoots came through or the tree with the first buds. This grain/fruit would be given as the first fruits, the guarantee of the harvest to come. Likewise, the Master’s resurrection was the first fruits, a guarantee of our resurrection. *1983 קָבַץ qabas generally refers to a gathering of people for social, military or religious occasions and of Yahuah gathering in His people in the End Times.
“Therefore, thus says Yahuah `Elohiym: ‘Because you are all become dross, therefore, behold, I will gather you into the midst of Yerushalayim. As they gather silver and brass and iron and lead and tin into the midst of the furnace, to blow the fire on it, to melt it; so will I gather you in my anger and in my wrath, and I will lay you there, and melt you.” (Eze. 22:19, 20). “‘For, behold, the days come,’ says the Yahuah, ‘that I will turn again the captivity of my people Yisra`el and Yahudah,’’ says Yahuah; and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it.’” (Jer. 30:3). The in-gathering will be for all Yehudim, Believers and non-Believers alike. It will not be a time of peace and tranquillity, but rather a period of refining or disciplining to bring non-Believers back to Yahuah. Since the re-establishing of the Nation (Le-arm) Yisra`el back into the Land (Eretz) Yisra`el, there have been many unsuccessful attempts by the enemies of Yahuah to destroy this In-gathering (e.g. wars of 1967 and Yom Kippur).
ii – in belief
“and shall return to Yahuah your `Elohiym, and shall obey His voice according to all that I command you this day, you and your children, with all your heart, and with all your soul; that then Yahuah your `Elohiym will turn your captivity, and have compassion on you, and will return and gather you from all the peoples, where Yahuah your `Elohiym has scattered you.” (Deut. 30:2, 3). When Yisra`el turns back to Yahuah `Elohiym, He will gather (#H6908 קָבַץ qabats) them together. This will be a time for Believers to return to Yahuah’s Promised Land.
“It shall happen in that day, that Yahuah will set His hand again the second time to recover the remnant of His people…He will set up an ensign for the nations, and will assemble the outcasts of Yisra`el, and gather together the dispersed of Yahudah from the four corners of the earth.” (Isa. 11:11, 12; 43:5, 6; Jer. 31:8). This can only take place if the land was secure. This was accomplished at the end of the 6 Day War in 1967. ‘Ensign’ #H5251 נֵס n-ace a banner or sign *1379a nes a rallying point. This is the same word used of Moshe and his lifting up of the brazen serpent. It can also be used to refer to a miracle. In this passage from the prophet Yesha`yahu, Yahuah has performed a miracle in bringing back His people, a sign to the surrounding nations of Yahuah power and an indicator that time is running out for non-believers. The rallying point for all Believers will be the Messiah Yahshua.
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“It will happen in that day, that I will make Yerushalayim a burdensome stone for all the peoples. All who burden themselves with it will be severely wounded, and all the nations of the earth will be gathered together against it.” (Zech. 12:3). Having brought back His people and raised them up as a sign to the nations, the nations converge on Yerushalayim in order to destroy Yahuah’s people.
One World Church
(For further details see mini bible studies Nicolaitans – First Generation Assembly).
Prophetic development
Although the Assemblies above are historic it is widely accepted that each Assembly represents a particular stage in the development of the Church Universal and that throughout time each characteristic will be continuously displayed but with one characteristic being prominent. From the doctrine below the characteristics and doctrine can now be seen as becoming more and more wide-spread in the various churches today. It is vital to realise that this particular danger will come from within the Church. Out of the Seven Assemblies, two are not criticised by the Messiah (Smyrna and Philadelphia) and one is apathetic (Laodicea). That leaves four Assemblies that show the traits of the Nicolaitans.
The Ephesus Assembly was typical of the assemblies from 70 C.E to 170 C.E. (Larkin p.18). The influence of the Nicolaitan heresy was developed during this period. This assembly was becoming increasingly under the influence of the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, that was to develop later into Roman Catholicism.
The Smyrna Assembly was typical of assemblies from Diocletian in 170 C.E. to Constantine in 312 C.E. The early Church Fathers were moving away from the teachings of the Tanakh and the Jewishness of the style of worship. In this period, it can be seen that the ‘Christian’ church wanted to disassociate itself from any connection with the Jews who were seen as being anti-Rome and Caesar (Larkin p.21).
The Pergamos Assembly was typical of assemblies from Constantine in 312 C.E. to Pope Boniface III in 606 C.E. This was the time of the establishment of Roman Catholicism and the Pope declaring himself the ‘Universal Bishop’. This is the era when the ‘Church’ finally separated from its historic teachings after the Council of Nicea in 325 C.E. and established the man-made primacy of Roman Catholicism.
The Thyatira Assembly was typical of assemblies from Pope Boniface III in 606 C.E. to the Reformation 1520 C.E. Roman Catholicism became the world’s dominant religion during this period and assumed it peak just prior to the Reformation (Larkin p. 23).
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The Sardis Assembly was typical of the assemblies from 1520 C.E to 1750 C.E. (Larkin p. 25). This can be considered as the Reformation Period Assembly that was distinguished by a ritualistic assembly, “holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof. Turn away from these, also.” (2 Tim. 3:5).
The Philadelphia Assembly was typical of the assemblies from 1735 C.E to 1900 C.E. This period typifies the revival church after the near-fatal Sardis Period of the Reformation. This is the period of the great missionaries George Whitefield, John Wesley, Charles G. Finney and D. L. Moody (Larkin p. 26).
Laodicea was typical of the assemblies from 1900 C.E to the present. Most of the assemblies of the present era can be seen to be self-deceived in that they are wealthy yet poor (Larkin p. 27).
“To the angel of the assembly in Ephesus write…’But this you have, that you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.’” (Rev. 2:1a, 6). Hate #G3404 μισέω mi-say-oh means to detest. The term Nicolaitans may not have been a definite sect of people but rather a description of a type of people (Cross).
“To the angel of the assembly in Pergamos write…’But I have a few things against you, because you have there some who hold the teaching of Bil`am, who taught Balak to throw a stumbling block before the children of Yisra`el, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. So you also have some who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans likewise.’” (Rev. 2:12a, 15, 16). The Renewed Covenant has little to say about the Nicolaitans, other than these two passages, the former to the Assembly at Ephesus and the latter to the Assembly at Pergamos.
Ephesus was a major city in Asia and was the centre of pagan worship. The Temple of Artemis (Diana) was located there and was considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Pergamos was the capital of the region and was the centre of worship of Zeus and Asclepios who was depicted by a serpent entwined around a staff. Temples in the Graeco-Roman world were home to religious prostitutes. Thus, any compromise that would bring in to the Assemblies greater numbers of the upper classes of society would be promulgated (Barclay (1)). However, their beliefs may be considered as Bil`amites of which Shimon Keefa, “having eyes full of adultery, and who can’t cease from sin; enticing unsettled souls; having a heart trained in greed; children of cursing; forsaking the right way, they went astray, having followed the way of Bil`am the son of Be’or, who loved the wages of wrong-doing;” (Peter 2:14, 15) and Yahuda, “Woe to them! For they went in the way of Kayin, and ran riotously in the error of Bil`am for hire, and perished in Korach’s rebellion.” (Jude 11) both warn against their practices.These passages warn against satisfying the flesh and leading others astray, “that you abstain from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality, from which if you keep yourselves, it will be well with you. Farewell.” (Acts 5:29). Ya`akob ruled at the Council of Yerushalayim against such practices.
“Yisra`el abode in Shittim; and the people began to play the prostitute with the daughters of Mo`av: for they called the people to the sacrifices of their gods; and the people ate, and bowed down to their gods. Yisra`el joined himself to Ba`al-Pe`or: and the anger of Yahuah was kindled against Yisra`el.” (Num. 25:1-3). Having failed to bring about the destruction of the Yisra`elites through curses, Bil`am instructed Balak in other ways to bring down then
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Yisra`elites. This was done by enticing the people into sexual immorality and idol worship. Yahuah’s commandments were specifically laid down to keep the Yisra`elites separate from the surrounding pagan nations and set apart unto Him. At Pe`or, they failed on all accounts.
“Behold, these caused the children of Yisra`el, through the counsel of Bil`am, to commit trespass against Yahuah in the matter of Pe`or, and so the plague was among the congregation of Yahuah. Now therefore kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him.” (Num. 31:16, 17). Bil`am’s error was to cause the Yisra`elites to turn away from Yahuah `Elohiym who had brought them out of Egypt. Not only were the Yisra`elites committing fornication but fell into Ba`al worship. Moshe’s instructions were to destroy the surrounding nations so that they would never again be led astray. These were not fully carried out. The prostitute/whore/harlot is a type of person (male or female) that leads others into sin (ref. Izevel. – Nicolaitans).
“Also all that generation were gathered to their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, who didn’t know Yahuah, nor yet the work which he had worked for Yisra`el. The children of Yisra`el did that which was evil in the sight of Yahuah, and served the Ba`alim; and they forsook Yahuah, the `Elohiym of their fathers, who brought them out of the land of Mitzrayim, and followed other gods, of the gods of the peoples who were round about them, and bowed themselves down to them: and they provoked Yahuah to anger. They forsook Yahuah, and served Ba`al and the `Ashtarot.” (Judges 2.10-13). The result of disobeying Yahuah commands through Moshe took only a generation to come about. “The children of Yisra`el again did that which was evil in the sight of Yahuah, and served the Ba`alim, and the `Ashtarot, and the gods of Aram, and the gods of Tzidon, and the gods of Mo`av, and the gods of the children of `Ammon, and the gods of the Pelishtim; and they forsook Yahuah, and didnot serve him.” (Judges 10:6). “In those days there was no king in Yisra`el: every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 21:25).
בִּלְעָם Bil`am bil-arm (Hebrew) = בָּלַע bala` – to swallow up (conquer) + עַם `am people
Νικόλαος ni-kol-a-os (Greek) = νῖκος ni-kos to utterly vanquish (conquer) + λαός la-os people.
The name Bil`am had an evil connotation to the early Assemblies from the original account (Num. 22:1-24:25) and the term Nicolaitans would have been more acceptable to its early adherents. Tertullian mentions another sect, the Cainites as ‘alii Nicolaite’ (Barclay(1) quoting Tertullian). These were trying to amalgamate the Person of Messiah with the false deity of Belial (Fairbairn) even though it was in direct opposition to Sha`ul’s instructions to the Corinthian Assembly (2 Cor. 6:15). The Nicolaitans were also accused of denying Yahuah `Elohiym as Creator. Other early Church Fathers equated the Cainites with the Ophites and Sephites who were opposed to Yahuah, glorified the Serpent and considered the Fall as a progression from ignorance to knowledge (Cross).
Whereas Nicolaus’ teaching was that the flesh was bad, his outworking was to punish or mortify his flesh. However, early Church leaders had the Nicolaitans’ doctrine very different
from this:
Irenaeus – the Nicolaitans lived a life of unrestrained indulgence.
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Hippolytus – the Nicolaitans departed from correct doctrine and encouraged indifference to food and life.
Clement of Alexandria – the Nicolaitans could use or abuse their flesh as shamelessly as they wanted.
There is some early tradition that some Believers were following heretical teaching attributed to Nicolaus, a gentile Yahuah -fearer from Antioch in the process of becoming a Jew (a proselyte). His teaching was that the flesh was totally evil and that severe self-punishment (whipping, fasting, penitence) could bring one closer to Yahuah (to be taken up by the Roman Catholic Church). The following verses, although probably not available to him, would be the kind of teaching that led to excesses.
“For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwells no good thing. For desire is present with me, but I do not find it doing that which is good.” (Rom 7:18).
“deliver such a one to haSatan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Messiah Yahshua.” (1 Cor. 5:5).
“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of Yahuah.” (2 Cor. 7:1).
“Those who belong to the Messiah have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts.” (Gal. 5:24).
Whether Nicolaus’ teachings had been perverted in later years or that there was no relationship between Nicolaus and the Nicolaitans cannot be definitively proven.
The doctrines of the Nicolaitans can be summarised as follows:
(i) The Law is ended, there are no laws, rules or regulations and so they could do whatever they wanted:
(ii) Flesh is evil and spirit is good, and as a spirit being, a man could do whatever he liked to the body as it did not matter:
(iii) Grace is all-sufficient and would protect them. Antinomianism – if sin is an opportunity for Yahuah to display His Grace, the more a person sins, the more opportunity for Yahuah to display Grace:
(iv) They wanted Believers to compromise the teachings given to them so that the difference between the pagans and themselves would lessen, making it more attractive to non-Believers to join them. This was mostly aimed at the upper levels of society (Barclay(1)):
(v) They wanted to introduce a system of hierarchy in the clergy that was man-inspired and not Yahuah-called. There would be no direct access to Yahuah through the mediation of the Messiah, but had to go through the priest, bishop, Mary or dead saints (see Izevel below).
This last doctrine of the Nicolaitans can be seen in the trend of denominations. The initial founders of the various denominations were true Believers following the teachings of the Master and the Bible. However, over time, the Headship of Messiah is replaced by an ecclesiastical hierarchy (see below). This was derived from the association of the Nicolaitans with Nimrod.
“‘Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before Yahuah.’ The beginning of his kingdom was Bavel, Erekh, Akkad, and Kalneh, in the land of Shin`ar.’” (Gen. 10:9b, 10). #H5248 נִמְרֹד Nim-road means rebellion or valiant depending upon the spelling. This is the first reference to an
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earthly kingdom and the inference was that Nimrod expanded it through force i.e. to conquer and subjugate the surrounding people. He was considered to be a tyrant and enlarged and maintained his empire by violent, despotic means (Skinner). He set up a form of government that was hierarchical in structure and his expansionism was to instigate a one-world authoritarian religious government. Nimrod ruled through fear and taught his subjects to fear and depend upon him and not on Yahuah `Elohiym. As the Flood was still fresh in the memories of the people, Nimrod had contempt for Yahuah and thus started to build the Tower of Bavel so that Man would no longer be under the threat of another deluge (Josephus). It is also the first mention of Man deliberately rebelling against Yahuah and falling into apostasy.
Nimrod is known throughout ancient history by many different names. He appears as the main character in all pantheons (Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Norse etc. www.youtube.com/watch) but is commonly called Ba`al (www.bible-history.com).
However, there is no consensus as to the exact meaning of Nimrod. Rather than a name, it is much more likely to be a title. Kraeling suggests that it may be derived from Lugal-Marad-Da (King of Marad) and En-Marad (Nin-Marad, lord of Marad) (jstor.org).
Izevel (Ee-za-vel)
“To the angel of the assembly in Thyatira write…’But I have this against you, that you tolerate your woman, Izevel, who calls herself a prophetess. She teaches and seduces my servants to commit sexual immorality, and to eat things sacrificed to idols.’” (Rev. 2:18a, 20). Although the Messiah does not actually name the Nicolaitans in His condemnation of the Assembly at Thyatira, Izevel is said to lead them into Balaam’s doctrine.
The woman known as or referred to as Izevel would have been well known within the Thyatiran Assembly. She may have been:
- The wife of the leader of the assembly, although this is quite tenuous;
- The oracle Sambathe who would have had great influence in the city but would not be
- from within the congregation;
- An un-named but self-proclaimed prophetess and teacher;
- An un-named woman whose character brought to mind the wife of King Ahab, “It happened, as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Yarov`am the son of Nevat, that he took as wife Izevel the daughter of Etba`al king of the Tzidonim, and went and served Ba`al, and worshiped it.” (1 Kgs. 16:31). These would be:
- not native to the city but has quickly gained power and influence;
- from a pagan background;
- ruthless in obtaining her personal ambitions;
- usurps the authority of the leadership by proclaiming her ‘divine’ calling or
- her superior lineage or intellect.
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Teachings of Izevel
- These may be considered as the teachings of the Nicolaitans:
- Spiritual fornication, “Do not make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, lest they play the prostitute after their gods, and sacrifice to their gods, and one call you and you eat of his sacrifice;” (Exod. 34:15; cf Deut. 31:16): (a) drifting or leading others way from the one true `Elohiym;
- Believers not to be exclusive in worship.
- Physical fornication:
- the norm for Greco-Roman society;
- antinomianism.
- Eating of meat offered to idols:
- guild meals would invariably contain meat sacrificed to idols, “But concerning the Gentiles who believe, we have written our decision that they should observe no such thing, except that they should keep themselves from food offered to idols, from blood, from strangled things, and from sexual immorality.” (Acts 21:25; cf 1 Cor. 8:1-13);
- fellowship meals would buy meat from the market place with the better cuts that may have originated from meat sacrifices.
“It happened, as if it had been a light thing for him (Ahab) to walk in the sins of Yarov`am the son of Nevat, that he took as wife Izevel the daughter of Etba`al king of the Tzidonim, and went and served Ba`al, and worshiped him.” (1 Kgs. 16:31). Throughout the Tanakh, Ba`al worship caused the Yisra`elites to turn away from Yahuah and bring about judgement upon themselves. Izevel is the archetypical whore against which Scripture warns (Rev. 2:20). “And on her forehead a name was written, ‘MYSTERY, BAVEL THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF THE PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE Earth.’” (Rev. 17:5). Bavel here is not a person or even a city but rather a system of religion that leads people astray. It started at Bavel with Nimrod; carried on through the days of Moshe, the Judges, the kings of Yisra`el and Yehuda. “A mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone and cast it into the sea, saying, ‘Thus with violence will Bavel, the great city, be thrown down, and will be found no more at all.’” (Rev. 18:21). However, the city most associated with or the centre of this system is the physical indication of the system and that it has been destroyed. It is active today and will be until its destruction stated in this verse.
“And to the angel of the assembly in Sardis write…‘Wake up, and keep the things that remain, which you were about to throw away… Nevertheless, you have a few names in Sardis that did not defile their garments. They will walk with me in white, for they are worthy.’” (Rev. 3:1-4). Even in the Assembly at Sardis, Believers were turning away from sound doctrine and following false teachings and continuing a lifestyle of sin. The inference is that if a few have not followed this course, many have.
Although it is not in the scope of this study to discuss the events, symbolism and typography of Ya`akob’s Trouble, there are certain events that commence well before the Trouble. One such case is that of Yochanan’s fourth beast. The beasts of Rev. 13:1-7, Rev. 17:3-17 have a predominant feature in the leopard’s body. When comparing Yochanan’s fourth beast with Danyiel’s fourth beast in Dan. 7:7-25 and N’vukhadnetzar’s dream, the
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beast represents a revived Roman Empire. However, this revived Roman Empire shows traits of the other previous empires (lion = Babylon, bear = medo-Persia, leopard = Greece). Therefore, the overarching trait would be Grecian (Larkin p.120).
The old Roman Empire morphed from a secular/military state into one dominated by the ‘adopted’ religion of ‘Christianity’. After the Eastern/Western religious split in 364 C.E., the Western church grew strong in the Greek and Roman churches. These had a major influence in the subsequent development of nations that are still recognisable in the Judaeo/Christian laws of today. The Greek paradigm was the known world-wide culture from Philip II of Macedon uniting the Greek states until the final defeat by Rome in 31 B.C.E. This is known as the Hellenistic Age. However, Roman society took on the Greek culture to such an extent that some scholars consider Greco-Roman culture as being one continuous civilization (www.timemaps.com).
One of the most influential aspects of the Greek paradigm is that of the political system known as democracy. This was first formulated as early as 600 B.C.E. (www.bbc.co.uk/history) and was to flourish until a large number of nations today have some form of democratic political government. This democratic system will be used to pass laws that are satanic in opposition to Yahuah’s commandments.
Another, even more insidious aspect of the Greek culture, probably older than democracy, is the Greek way of thought. This was noticeable in the clash of cultures in Yisra`el between the Greek thought process (based upon abstract conceptions) and the Hebrew thought process (based upon tangible understanding). This can be seen in Scripture, “Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, a complaint arose from the Yevanian Yehudim against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily service.” (Acts 6:1) and the Greek paradigm now is the single most important feature in the vast majority of translations of Scripture. This Greek way of thought is the main reason why Believers struggle with Torah.
“For there will arise false messiahs, and false prophets, and they will show great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.” (Matt. 24:24). “It led Him to Yerushalayim, and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, ‘If you are the Son of Yahuah, cast yourself down from here, for it is written, ‘He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you;’ and, ‘On their hands they will bear you up, Lest perhaps you dash your foot against a stone.'” (Luke 4:9-11). Through the lack of faith, the Church is desperately seeking signs and wonders and holds on to every teaching that offers them. That is not to say that miracles no longer happen. However, not only the miracle but the method and person involved must be carefully weighed against Scripture.
“But the Ruach says expressly that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons,” (1 Tim. 4:1). “The devil said to Him, ‘I will give you all this authority, and their glory, for it has been delivered to me; and I give it to whomever I want. If you therefore will worship before me, it will all be yours.’” (Luke 4:6, 7). Power has always been a seductive draw and can be seen in the desire of men within the Church to attain to positions of authority. This is made possible by the hierarchical system seen in most religions, faiths and denominations today. There is also the danger of compromise that substitutes the Word of Yahuah and His Torah with the opinions and false interpretations of the Church leaders.
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“Then certain of the scribes and Pharisees answered, ‘Teacher, we want to see a sign from you. But He answered them, ‘An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, but no sign will be given it but the sign of Yonah the prophet.’” (Matt. 12:38).As in the time of the Master, even today the established religions are seeking signs other than the Messiah raised up from the dead.
“desiring to be teachers of the law, though they understand neither what they say, nor about what they strongly affirm.” (1 Tim. 1:7). The religious authorities do not want to know Torah and so are content to rely on the traditions, doctrines and creeds propagated in Theology institutions and yeshivas.
“Let not many of you be teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive heavier judgment.” (James 3:1). The severest of penalties lie in wait for all who proclaim themselves (as opposed to those who are Yahuah-called) as teachers.
Compromise can also be seen in the ecumenical movement in bringing together all the different religions of the world. The premise is to engage in dialogue in order to remove the causes of enmity between them. Many organisations are currently seeking to bring about this reconciliation. This can only occur when the differences are set aside. These organisations include The Elijah Interfaith Institute, Inter-religion International Meetings, Tantur Ecumenical Institute, Sant’Egido and Freemasonry (especially Royal Arch Masonry).
The New Jerusalem Covenant Project is a theosophic plan of the satanic One World Order to prepare the way and to usher in the Anti-christ. In its 5 Step plan, Step 3 is the spiritually internationalizing of Jerusalem (https://www.cuttingedge.org/news/n1573.cfm). In order to accomplish this strategy, at a minimum, three of the major religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam need to come together. In Jerusalem this takes the form of the Elijah Interfaith Institute’s Center of HOPE (House Of Prayer and Education). This is a multi-faith assembly endorsed by the three Abrahamic religions as well as Buddhism and many other religions of India (World Religious Leaders’ Activity – Elijah Interfaith (elijah-interfaith.org). Isa. 56.7 is cited as the Scriptural justification of this merging, “even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.” (Center of HOPE – Elijah Interfaith (elijah-interfaith.org). As with all Scriptural verses quoted by demonic forces, it tries to justify doctrine by quoting one-off verses or passages. It only takes a glance at the previous verse, “Also the foreigners who join themselves to Yahuah, to minister to Him, and to love the name of Yahuah, to be His servants, everyone who keeps the Shabbat from profaning it, and holds fast my covenant;” (Isa. 56:6).Apart from religious Jews, no other religion acknowledges the Shabbat, let alone loves His name and serves the One true Almighty.
There are also other purpose-built buildings in the process of construction in order that the three Abrahamic faiths can come together: Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi (https://www.newsweek.com/church-mosque-synagogue-abu-dhabi-1461097); House of One in Berlin to be completed in 2022; (Synagogue, mosque and church to join under one roof in Berlin | Reuters) also to be completed in 2022. It should be noted that the Seat (or Throne) of haSatan was discovered in Pergamos that drew worshipers of haSatan, sun and Saturn (https://www.kotipetripaavola.com) and was taken to Berlin in 1901
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(www.https://www.grandmageri422.me). For further details please refer to the mini bible study Pergamos – First Generation Assembly. Is it a coincidence that Adolf Hitler used theosophy in order to justify the Final Solution culminating in the Holocaust and his capital, Berlin was the location of the Seat of haSatan?
As with all of haSatan’s counterfeits, the use of the word house to describe these buildings is significant. The Third Temple (Hebrew: בית המקדש השלישי, Beit haMikdash haShlishi, literally: The House, the Holy, the Third) is known as The House (The Third Temple is Being Built in Jerusalem | End Time Message (endtimesmessages.com). The Master “entered into the Temple, and began to drive out those who bought and sold in it, saying to them, ‘It is written, ‘My House is a House of prayer,’ but you have made it a den of thieves!” (Luke 19:45, 46 cf Isa. 56:7; Jer. 7:11).
Step 4 in The New Jerusalem Covenant Project is the visit of the Roman Catholic Pope to Yerushalayim. This took place on 24th. May 2014 (The Dark Side of the Pope’s Visit to Jerusalem | theTrumpet.com).
“Now the works of the flesh are obvious, which are: adultery, sexual immorality, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousies, outbursts of anger, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these; of which I forewarn you, even as I also forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the Kingdom of Yahuah.” (Gal. 5:19-21). “The devil said to Him, ‘If you are the Son of Yahuah, command this stone to become bread.’” (Luke 4:3). It is human nature to want the easy way of life and any doctrine that can make life easier, more palatable is a popular one. Most people attend church today for what they can get out of it rather than what they can put into it. Throughout the Master’s ministry, He constantly challenges His followers with a difficult life; one of persecution and service.
“For you, brothers, were called for freedom. Only do not use your freedom for gain to the flesh, but through love be servants to one another.” (Gal. 5:13). The Nicolaitans have blatantly ignored Sha`ul’s teachings. Little wonder that the doctrine of the Nicolaitans was hated by the Messiah for perverting liberty for license.
The three references to Luke above are the three temptations haSatan tested the Master at the very beginning of His ministry. Each time the Master refuted the Adversary’s attempts for the Him to by-pass His ministry and to declare Himself the long-awaited Mashiyach Ben Dawid. Little did it know that one day the Master will reveal Himself as Mashiyach ben Dawid, but that would only be possible after He first revealed Himself as Mashiyach ben Yosef. The birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection of the Master are the perfect examples for all Believers to follow and given for Man’s benefit. It is my belief that the Master included these trials so that Man can have the perfect example of how to counter haSatan. The Master could well have refuted, annihilated, or bound and cast down haSatan in other ways but it was imperative that Man should know. Hence, as only the Master knew the details of the trials (as opposed someone being a witness to the scene), shows the extreme importance of this encounter.
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Let us now consider the doctrines above and counter as the Master did by stating what is written:
(i) The Law is ended: “For most assuredly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the law, until all things are accomplished.” (Matt. 5:18). This is not the normal argument between the Written Law (Mosaic) and the Oral Law (Pharisaic) or even Law versus Grace. The Nicolaitans preached that all Law was done away with and with no standard to follow nor any sanctions against them they could do whatever they wanted.
(ii) Flesh is evil: “Yahuah `Elohiym formed man in His own image. In Yahuah `Elohiym’s image He formed him; male and female He formed them. Yahuah `Elohiym saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good. There was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.” (Gen. 1:27, 31). Yahuah `Elohiym specifically formed Man as opposed to the rest of Creation that Yahuah `Elohiym spoke into existence. Man was the last and pinnacle of Creation to which Yahuah `Elohiym called very good. Therefore, Man (ruach, soul and flesh) is not intrinsically evil. It may be argued that the flesh is the only inert part of Man as it operates only under the influence of the spirit and soul. Even physical substance dependency can be attributed to the soul desiring something before the addiction sets in or even in some cases may be caused by demon possession or attack.
(iii) All-sufficient grace: “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? May it never be! We who died to sin, how could we live in it any longer?” (Rom. 6:1, 2). Sha`ul directly counters this doctrine by asking how is it possible that a Believer would want to consciously sin. This is not to say that a Believer could or would never fall to temptation, but the Nicolaitans wanted to escalate the degree of sinning.
(iv) Compromise: “No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. You are not able to serve Yahuah and mammon.” (Luke 16:13). The compromise that is facing the Church today is the accommodation of the world’s values when compared to the Word of Yahuah. It is sad to say that this Scripture has proven to be accurate. In order to attract more people into the mainstream churches, there has been an inexorable move away from Yahuah’s standards towards the world’s standards.
(v) Hierarchy: “He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, shepherds and teachers; for the perfecting of the set apart ones, to the work of serving, to the building up of the body of the Messiah;” (Eph. 4:11). This is often quoted as proof-text for the basis upon which a hierarchical church is founded. Alternately the early ministry of the Master consisted of the Master, an inner group of Shimon Keefa, Ya`akov and Yochanan, the outer group comprising of the other Shlichim and finally His followers. These offices are not meant to be in a position of authority but are to serve the Church in instructing the assembly. This can only be accomplished if the teaching is in accordance with the Word of Yahuah (www.messianicjews.com.au ).
“But not so with you. But one who is the greater among you, let him become as the younger, and one who is governing, as one who serves. For who is greater, one who sits at the table, or one who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? But I am in the midst of you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:26, 27). The hierarchical system is designed so that man is
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exalted within the fellowship and the leadership can lord it over the congregation. The prime examples of this are those ecclesiastics that display their positions like peacocks using brightly coloured garments and symbols of office. How far away are these examples from that set by the Master? He disrobed and washed the feet of His Shlichim. In the References and Credits section below, there are several websites promoting ecumenicalism – the coming together of various religions. All leaders display the trappings of authority and titles like ‘His All-holiness’. How unlike the Master who instructed His Shlichim not to take two cloaks with them on their travels and who Himself corrected an enquirer who call Him ‘good’.
“But how does Yahuah answer him? ‘I have reserved for myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to Ba`al.’ Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear, to this very day of grace…What then? That which Yisra`el seeks for, that he did not obtain, but the elect obtained it, and the rest were hardened. According as it is written, ‘Yahuah gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear, to this very day.’” (Rom. 11:4-8). Throughout history, many Believers have worshipped Ba`al through ignorance of the Word or not following the leading of the Ruach. However, there has always been a core of true Believers that have not been deceived.
“But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them, and became partaker with them of the root and of the richness of the olive tree;” (Rom. 11:17). “Therefore, remember that once you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called ‘uncircumcision’ by that which is called ‘circumcision,’ (in the flesh, made by hands); that you were at that time separate from the Messiah, alienated from the Commonwealth of Yisra`el, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without Yahuah in the world. But now in the Messiah Yahshua you who once were far off are made near in the blood of the Messiah.” (Eph. 2:11-13). Both Jewish and Gentile Believers are now united into the Commonwealth of Yisra`el but the lessons of history have not been learnt. Many Believers today have been carried off into a ‘Babylonian Exile’ for their disobedience and presumptive arrogance. King Hizkiyahu was a righteous leader but after witnessing the sundial move backwards, it is my belief that he became proud of his accumulated treasures and presumed that Yahuah would not allow it to be taken away from him. This arrogance led to the sacking of the Yerushalayim and the leading off of the nobles and leaders (hierarchy) of Yahuda. Only a remnant of vineyard and farm workers was not carried off into the Babylonian Exile (2 Kgs. 20:1-21; 24:10-25:21).
“The king spoke to Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring in certain of the children of Yisra`el, even of the seed royal and of the nobles; youths in whom was no blemish, but well-favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and endowed with knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability to stand in the king’s palace; and that he should teach them the learning and the language of the Kasdim…Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the enchanters, and the sorcerers, and the Kasdim, to tell the king his dreams. So they came in and stood before the king.” (Dan. 1:3, 4; 2:2). During the exile in Babylon, the Jews were subjected to a culture of Ba`al (Marduk) worship and the associated occultic practices, especially during the latter part of the exile under Koresh, King of Persia. It was common practice of the Persians to unify the various displaced people by having them speak the same language. This was in direct opposition to the will of Yahuah `Elohiym (Gen. 11: 1-9) where the people were scattered and different languages were instigated (Herrmann).
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Babylonian Exile
“You are wearied in the multitude of your counsels: let now the astrologers, the star-gazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save you from the things that shall come on you.” (Isa. 47:13). The prophet Yesha`yahu describes the occultic practices of the Babylonians and Persians and warns them of the impending judgement to all who are associated with these abominations.
“Hear you this, house of Ya`akob, who are called by the name of Yisra`el, and are come forth out of the waters of Yahudah; who swear by the name of Yahuah, and make mention of the `Elohiym of Yisra`el, but not in truth, nor in righteousness (for they call themselves of the set apart city, and stay themselves on the `Elohiym of Yisra`el; Yahuah of Hosts is His name):” (Isa. 48:1, 2). This terrible indictment is upon those who profess faith but are still held captive by the seductive nature of Babylon/One-world Religion.
“Oh that you had listened to my commandments! then had your shalom been as a river, and your righteousness as the waves of the sea…Go you forth from Bavel, flee you from the Kasdim; with a voice of singing declare you, tell this, utter it even to the end of the earth: say you, Yahuah has redeemed His servant Ya`akob.” (Isa. 48:18, 20). The prophet Yesha`yahu warns the people of Yisra`el of the consequences of being united with the people of Babylon by their refusal to listen to Yahuah. Even today, many Believers are not being obedient to Yahuah through the leading of His Ruach and are thus held captive by the religious system known as Babylon.
It is also my belief that the Babylonian Exile is a type of an End Times Babylonian Exile wherein Yahuah `Elohiym allows the One-world Religion (Izevel) to ‘carry off’ or lead Believers into ‘captivity’. It does not take much scrutiny of modern ‘Christianity’ to realise this.
There are two main areas where this is evident:
(i) in teachings that are in direct contradiction to Scripture i.e. Mary/saints worship, mis- or non-use of the gifts of HaRuach, dispensationalism (role of Yisra`el), immorality;
(ii) in teachings that are ‘traditions of the elders’ i.e. Christmas, Easter, cessationalism (termination of Law), Names of Father and Son.
Although the Jews that were carried off originally kept to Yahuah Laws, the lifestyle in Babylon was not harsh. There were large communities that were allowed to farm, accumulate wealth and to keep their religious observations. However, due to the false prophets (that were partially to blame for the exile), large numbers were content to compromise/assimilate with the pagan population and fell into a comfortable but idolatrous existence. (www.jewishencyclopedia.com).
“He cried with a mighty voice, saying, ‘Fallen, fallen is Bavel the great, and she has become a habitation of demons, a prison of every unclean spirit, and a watch kept by every unclean and hateful bird!’…I heard another voice from heaven, saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, that you have no participation in her sins, and that you do not receive of her plagues,’” (Rev. 18:2, 4). Even at the very last opportunity, in His mercy, Yahuah `Elohiym calls out to people.
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Wormwood
“The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from the sky, burning like a torch, and it fell on one third of the rivers, and on the springs of the waters. The name of the star is called ‘Wormwood.’ One third of the waters became wormwood. Many people died from the waters, because they were made bitter.” (Rev.8:10, 11). Most biblical commentators take this passage to mean that what Yochanan thought of as a star is in reality, an asteroid. Due to the distances involved, this asteroid may well be on its way.
There are several ‘disaster’ movies in which an asteroid is on a collision course with Planet Earth. This has now been taken seriously by world governments.
“DART is the first-ever mission dedicated to investigating and demonstrating one method of asteroid deflection by changing an asteroid’s motion in space through kinetic impact.” (In Depth | DART – NASA Solar System Exploration)
Double Asteroid Redirection Test (Dart) is a “planetary defense-driven (sic) test of technologies for preventing an impact of Earth by a hazardous asteroid. DART will be the first demonstration of the kinetic impactor technique to change the motion of an asteroid in space.” The goal of this project is to purposely aim a spacecraft to crash into a small asteroid called the binary near-earth asteroid (65803) Didymos/Dimorphos. in order to deflect its path sufficiently to miss an earth impact. DART was launched 23rd. Nov. 2021 for impact Sept./Oct. 2022. Although NASA stresses that there is no risk of such an impact in the next 100 years, their data is insufficient to say with any certainty. Therefore, NASA is taking the opportunity to test the theory of DART.
The following may be applicable:
(i) That it is as NASA states and no such threat is apparent;
(ii) That Dimorphos is more than a potential threat and DART was launched to divert an actual threat.
(iii) Another asteroid, closer than Dimorphos, is on a collision course and Dimorphos is only a ruse. In all the disaster movies, only the ‘experts’ are aware of the danger with most of the world left in ignorance to prevent a world-wide panic.
Whatever scenario is correct, Wormwood is on its way and any DART mission fails as Yochanan prophetically describes its impact.
Why is the Book of Ester in the Tanakh, given that neither Yahuah nor any of His titles are mentioned and more so because she was a woman?
The following represents first the type as given in the Book of Ester, and then the anti-type raised up in the End Times. In all Cases, the type shows traits of or a pattern for but never a perfect copy of the anti-type.
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(i) Type: Ester is adopted by Mordekhai, “There was a certain Yehudi in Shushan the palace, whose name was Mordekhai…He brought up Hadassah, who is, Ester, his uncle’s daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maiden was fair and beautiful; and when her father and mother were dead, Mordekhai took her for his own daughter.” (Est. 2:7).
Anti-type: “For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’” (Rom. 8:15 cf Eph. 1:5; 2:12). Believers, both Jew and Gentile, have been adopted by Yahuah.
(i) Type: (b) #H1919 הֲדַסָה ha-de-sar myrtle tree. This tree is very beautiful with a fragrant smell. It is also associated with righteousness (Chabad.org quoting Rashi’s comment on (Deut. 20:19 and Talmud comment on Zech. 1:8)). Very little attention is paid to the Hebrew name, Hadassah. Ester was the Persian name given to this young woman, taken into the court (hareem) of King Achashverosh. This was a common practice of conquering forces by which the victors used to integrate captives, “The prince of the eunuchs gave names to them: to Daniyel he gave the name of Belteshatztzar; and to Hananyah, of Shadrakh; and to Misha’el, of Meshakh; and to `Azaryah, of` Aved-Nego.” (Dan. 1:7).
Anti-type: “For we are a sweet aroma of the Messiah to `Eloakh, in those who are saved, and in those who perish;” (2 Cor. 2:15). The righteous ones of Yahuah are positioned in a world of wickedness and stand out because of the presence of the Messiah in each Believer. “Walk in love, even as the Messiah also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to `Eloakh for a sweet-smelling fragrance.” (Eph. 5:2).Believers must emulate the self-sacrifice of both the Messiah and Hadassah, in that they did not consider their own lives so that the Jews (and Gentiles) should be saved.
(iii)Type: Ester was the queen most loved and favoured of the king, “The king loved Ester above all the women, and she obtained favour and kindness in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown on her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.” (Est. 2:17).
Anti-type: “By this was Yahuah’s love revealed in us, that Yahuah has sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.” (1 John 4:9 cfSong 4:8-12; Rev. 21:9). There was no price that was withheld for the redemption of sinners.
(iv) Type: Haman required Mordekhai to bow down before him, “When Haman saw that Mordekhai did not bow down, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath.” (Est. 3:5).
Anti-type: “The devil said to Him, ‘I will give you all this authority, and their glory, for it has been delivered to me; and I give it to whomever I want. If you therefore will worship before me, it will all be yours.’” (Luke 4:6, 7 cf Rev. 13:4, 8).
(v) Type: Haman determined to destroy all the people of Yisra`el, “But he scorned the thought of laying hands on Mordekhai alone; for they had made known to him the people of Mordekhai: therefore, Haman sought to destroy all the Yehudim who were throughout the whole kingdom of Achashverosh, even the people of Mordekhai.” (Est. 3:6).
Anti-type: “‘Come,’ they say, ‘and let us destroy them as a nation, That the name of Yisra`el may be remembered no more.’” (Psa. 83:4 cf Exod. 1:16, 22; Matt. 2:13, 16). Throughout history, it was HaSatan’s strategy to annihilate Yisra`el.
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(vi) Type: Haman accuses the people of Yisra`el of breaking the king’s commands, “Haman said to king Achashverosh, ‘There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom; and their laws are diverse from those of every people; neither keep they the king’s laws: therefore, it is not for the king’s profit to allow them.’” (Est. 3:8).
Anti-type: “I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our `Eloakh, and the authority of His Messiah; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our `Eloakh day and night.” (Rev. 12:10 cf Job 1:6-12).
(vii) Type: Mordekhai and the Yehudim cried out but could not enter the king’s presence in sackcloth, “Now when Mordekhai knew all that was done, Mordekhai tore his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and cried with a loud and a bitter cry; and he came even before the king’s gate: for none might enter within the king’s gate clothed with sackcloth. In every province, wherever the king’s mitzvah and his decree came, there was great mourning among the Yehudim, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.” (Est. 4:1-3).
Anti-type: “Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, Into His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, and bless His name.” (Psa. 100:4 cf Exod. 14:10; Isa. 64:6). Joy should be the over-arching emotion; the joy of knowing sins forgiven and it is with this that should govern how we approach the Throne of Grace.
(viii) Type: Ester is warned that her fate will be that of the Yehudim, “Then Mordekhai bade them return answer to Ester, Do not think to yourself that you shall escape in the king’s house, more than all the Yehudim.” (Est. 4:13).
Anti-type: “The dragon grew angry with the woman, and went away to make war with the rest of her seed, who keep `Eloakh’s commandments and hold Yahshua’s testimony.” (Rev. 12:17 cf Deut. 28:1-68). HaSatan does not make any differentiation between born-again Gentile Believers and all Jews.
(ix) Type: Ester is told why all these things have come to pass and that her position was not down to chance, fate or the king’s desire, but on an account of Yahuah’s sovereign will,
Anti-type: “For there stood by me this night an angel, belonging to the `Eloakh whose I am and whom I serve, saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Sha`ul. You must stand before Caesar. Behold, `Eloakh has granted you all those who sail with you.’ (Acts 27:23, 24). When being sent by Yahuah to be His witness, there can be no doubt that His purposes will be accomplished.
(x) Type: Ester and the Yehudim simultaneously fast, “Go, gather together all the Yehudim who are present in Shushan, and fast you for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast in like manner…” (Est. 4:16a).
Anti-type: “He said to them, ‘Because of your unbelief, For most assuredly I tell you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here,’ and it will move; nothing will be impossible for you. But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” (Matt. 17:20, 21). There are times when the enemy resists even the most fervent of prayers. By using fasting sparingly, this is a powerful weapon when combined with prayer. Fasting and prayer must not be done on a regular basis, but used before entering into spiritual warfare.
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(xi) Type: Ester determines to enter into the king’s presence with boldness, “…and so will I go in to the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.” (Est. 4:16b).
Anti-type: “Let us therefore draw near with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace for help in time of need.” (Heb. 4:16 cf Eph. 3:12; Heb. 10:19; 1 John 5:14). Ester’s boldness was based upon the knowledge that the king loved her. A Believer knows that Yahuah loves them so can go into the presence of Yahuah with assurance.
(xii) Type: Ester puts on the garments she had received from the king and enters his courts, “Now it happened on the third day, that Ester put on her royal clothing, and stood in the inner court of the king’s house, over against the king’s house: and the king sat on his royal throne in the royal house, over against the entrance of the house.” (Est. 5:1).
Anti-type: “Let us rejoice and be exceedingly glad, and let us give the glory to Him. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready. It was given to her that she would array herself in bright, pure, fine linen: for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the set apart ones.” (Rev. 19:7, 8 cf Job 29:14; Isa. 61:3; Rev. 3:5, 7:9). The Bride makes herself ready to meet her King and Husband.
(xiii) Type: Ester intercedes for the Yehudim, “The king said to Ester at the banquet of wine, ‘What is your petition? and it shall be granted you: and what is your request? even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed.’ Then answered Ester, and said, ‘My petition and my request is: if I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do tomorrow as the king has said.’” (Est. 5:6-8).
Anti-type: “This is the boldness which we have toward Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He listens to us. And if we know that He listens to us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we have asked of Him.” (1 John 5:14, 15). Believers, both Messianic and Gentile as well as non-believing Jews will cry out to Yahuah and He will act.
(xiv) Type: The king does not sleep, “On that night the king could not sleep;…” (Est. 6:1a).
Anti-type: “Behold, He who keeps Yisra’el will neither slumber nor sleep.” (Psa. 121.4).
(xv) Type: The king consults his book, “and he commanded to bring the book of records of the chronicles, and they were read before the king.” (Est. 6:1b).
Anti-type: “He took the book of the covenant and read it in the hearing of the people, and they said, ‘All that Yahuah has spoken will we do, and be obedient’. Moshe took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, ‘Look, this is the blood of the covenant, which Yahuah has made with you concerning all these words.” (Exod. 24:7, 8). Moshe called upon the covenant-keeping Name of Yahuah and it was He that made, sealed and ratified His covenant with His people by the shed blood of His Son, the Messiah Yahshua.
(xvi) Type: Ester pleads for her people, “Then Ester the queen answered, ‘If I have found favour in your sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request: for we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain,
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and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondservants and bondmaids, I had held my peace, although the adversary could not have compensated for the king’s damage’. Then spoke the king Achashverosh and said to Ester the queen, ‘Who is he, and where is he, that dared presume in his heart to do so?’ Ester said, ‘An adversary and an enemy, even this wicked Haman.’ Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen.” (Est. 7:3-6).
Anti-type: “I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now is come the salvation, the power, and the Kingdom of our `Eloakh, and the authority of His Messiah; for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them before our `Eloakh day and night.” (Rev. 12:10). It is haSatan, the Adversary, the Devil, that constantly accuses Believers. Typical of haSatan, it is half true. Believers were once guilty of all that it says, but when Yahuah sees Believers He also sees His Son having paid the full price of the guilt with His own blood.
(xvii) Type: Haman suffers the punishment he had for the Yehudim, “So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordekhai. Then was the king’s wrath pacified.” (Est. 7:10).
Anti-type: “The devil that deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur, where the beast and the false prophet are also. They will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” (Rev. 20:10). HaSatan is finally defeated, judgement is passed and sentence administered.
FGA believes that the Book of Ester is, of itself, a type where Haman represents haSatan, Mordekhai and the Yehudim have their anti-type in the people of Yisra`el and Ester represents Believers immediately prior to the Snatching Away. The critical text is “…who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Ester was put into a position by Yahuah so that, at the perfect time, she could intercede on behalf of the Yehudim to the king.
The prophets foretold of this time and longed to see the physical fulfilment, but had to see it only by faith. Today, all Believers are blessed at seeing the manifestation in their lives. However, with the great blessing comes a great responsibility. Like Ester, Believers need to humble themselves, especially during Yom haKippurim and intercede on behalf of the Nation of Yisra`el. Like Ester, Believers need to put on their royal garments and boldly enter into the presence of the King of Kings.
FGA believes that all true Believers are The Generation of Ester.
Never before has the powers of darkness come against Yisra`el, both externally by demonic inspired nations or internally by demonic inspired legislation. Just as when Haman determined to destroy the Jewish people, so likewise is haSatan.
Never before has the Jewish people needed the support of Believers, a people of boldness to approach the King of Kings on behalf of the Jewish people, individually and as a nation. It is this generation of Believers that has been raised up for such a time as this.
Another good example of intercessory prayer is recorded in Dan. 9:3-19. The prophet Daniyel fasted and prayed and humbled himself on behalf of his people, the land and the set apart city, Yerushalayim.
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FGA suggest that some time during Yom haKippurim that Believers to pray out aloud Daniy`el’s pray.
“They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not `El; They have provoked me to anger with their vanities: I will move them to jealousy with those who are not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation.” (Deut. 32:21). When the time of the Gentiles comes to end (Luke 21:24), the Nation of Yisra`el will see the Messiah return, not for His people but for His Bride.
Yahuah bless you and keep you,
Yahuah make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you,
Yahuah lift up His face toward you and give you peace.
All glory be to Yahuah,
Ameyn.
References and Credits
In using these references, it is in no way agreeing to or condoning the theological viewpoint of the authors.
Barclay Rev. W.(1)(1960) The Revelation of John Vol.1, St. Andrew Press, Edinburgh.
Cross F.L.(1966) The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church, Oxford University Press, London.
Fairbairn Rev. P. The Imperial Bible Dictionary Vol.I, Blackie & Sons
Harris R.L., Archer G.L., Thoelogical Wordbook of the Old Testament, Moody, Chicago, Waltke B.K. (1980) Il. (Denoted by *).
Herrmann S. (1979) A History of Israel in Old Testament Times.
Josephus F. Jewish Antiquities, Clays, St. Ives, 2006
Larkin C. (1919) The Book of the Revelation, Third Edition, Larkin Pub., New Rochelle N.Y.
MacDonald S. (2016) The S.O.S. A Handmaid’s Guide to the Apocalypse, Xlibris, U.K.
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Sanford W.H (2015) The Messianic Aleph Tav Interlinear Scripture, Vol. One, Torah, CCB Pub., British Columbia, Canada.
Skinner J. (1912) A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on Genesis, T&T Clark, Edinburgh.
Strong J. (1994) Strong’s New Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, World Bible Publishers Inc., Madison (Denoted as #H or #G).
Strong J. (1996) The New Strong’s Complete Dictionary of Bible Words, Thomas Nelson, Nashville. (Denoted as #H or #G).
http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ancient/greeks/greekdemocracy_01.shtml
www.bible-history.com/geography/maps/maps_jerusalem.html
http://www.bible-history.com/faussets/N/Nimrod/
What Does the Name Hadassah Mean? – Lifecycle Events (chabad.org)
https://www.jstor.org/stable/528439?seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents
http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/4012-captivity
https://www.kotipetripaavola.com
https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/missions/dart/in-depth
https://www.youtube.com/Should you take the Corona vaccine? Why do so many doctors and Rabbis say to take it? NEW Info!
https://www.youtube.com/Bio-warfare and the Weaponization of Medicine Amid Covid.
HNV The Hebrew Names Version is based off the World English Bible, an update of the American Standard Version of 1901. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.
King James Version (KJV) Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown. This Bible is printed and published by Cambridge University Press, the Queen’s royal printer, under royal
letters patent. The text commonly available now is actually that of the 1769 revision, not that of 1611. The text used by BLB is the current 1769 edition.
MATIS – “Scripture (or Content) taken from The Messianic Aleph Tav Interlinear Scripture (MATIS) copyright 2015 and used with permission by William H. Sanford.
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Ecumenical References
https://www.cuttingedge.org/news/n1573.cfm
http://www.elijah-interfaith.org/index.php?id=27
http://www.elijah-interfaith.org/hope-center
http://www.elijah-interfaith.org/world-religious-leaders-activity
https://www.newsweek.com/church-mosque-synagogue-abu-dhabi-1461097
Reutershttp://rowanwilliams.archbishopofcanterbury.org/articles.php/2384/archbishops-meetings-with-religious-leaders-in-jerusalem
http://www.santegidio.org/en/ecumenismo/uer/
Synagogue, mosque and church to join under one roof in Berlin |
http://www.supremegrandchapter.org.uk/about-royal-arch-masonry/what-is-royal-arch-masonry
The Dark Side of the Pope’s Visit to Jerusalem | theTrumpet.com
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First Generation Assembly 