This study describes the signs of the End Times, what has to be in place and the order of events both before Ya`akov’s Troubles (The Great Tribulation).
It does not discuss the events of Ya`akov’s Troubles.
Abomination That Causes Desolation who or what is the cause p.1;
Temple/Tabernacle/Sanctuary – how these are mistakenly interchanged p.4; Temples – First, Second, Yesha`yahu’s (Isaiah’s) unsanctioned, Yechezk`el’s (Ezekiel’s) Third p.5;
Preparation – what non-Believers do p.7, what Believers must do p.8;
References and Credits p.13:
The End Times/Eschatology
Part II (Trouble)
Part (ii) The Abomination
The Abomination That Causes Desolation
“But when he (`Uzziyah) was strong, his heart was lifted up, so that he did corruptly, and he trespassed against Yahuah his `Elohiym; for he went into the temple of Yahuah to burn incense on the altar of incense. `Azaryah the Chief Priest went in after him, and with him eighty priests of Yahuah, who were valiant men: and they withstood `Uzziyah the king, and said to him, ‘It pertains not to you, `Uzziyah, to burn incense to Yahuah, but to the priests, the sons of Aharon, who are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for you have trespassed; neither shall it be for your honour from Yahuah `Elohiym’, and they withstood `Uzziyah the king, and said to him, Then `Uzziyah was angry; and he had a censer in his hand to burn incense; and while he was angry with the priests, the leprosy broke forth in his forehead before the priests in the house of Yahuah, beside the altar of incense..” (2 Chr. 26:16-19).
This is a type of the anti-Messiah. `Uzziyah started his reign listening to the word of Yahuah but pride entered his heart and he became conceited. This ultimately led him to think that he could do whatever he wanted. By ignoring the High Priest and burning profane incense he came under the judgement of Yahuah as did Navad and Avihu, “Nadav and Avihu, the sons of `Aharon, each took his censer, and put fire in it, and laid incense on it, and offered strange fire before Yahuah, which He had not commanded them. And fire came forth from before Yahuah, and devoured them, and they died before Yahuah.” (Lev. 10:1, 2).It was not until `Uzziyah (and Navad and Avihu) directly insulted Yahuah that Yahuah had to act for His Name’s sake. This will be the case in the desecration of the Sanctuary by the ant-Messiah.
“For the mystery of lawlessness already works. Only there is one who restrains now, until he is taken out of the way. Then the Torahless one will be revealed, whom the Master will kill with the breath of His mouth, and bring to nothing by the brightness of His coming;”
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(2 Thess. 2:7, 8). I consider this to refer to the removal of all Believers. “They overcame it because of the Lamb’s blood, and because of the word of their testimony. They did not love their life, even to death. Therefore rejoice, heavens, and you who dwell in them. Woe to the land and to the sea, because the devil has gone down to you, having great wrath, knowing that it has but a short time.” (Rev. 12:10, 11). HaSatan is overcome by the Blood of the Lamb AND the word of their testimony. The Blood cannot be removed but Believers can. Evil is held in bay by the prayer of the Believers. Once Believers are removed haSatan has no restriction to its power and falls upon the earth as a devouring beast.
The use of the definite article the in Dan. 11:31; Matt. 24: 15 and 2 Thess. 2:3 would indicate that these refer to the one and same person. Although there have been many anti-Messiahs throughout history, the use of the definite article signifies this is an anti-Messiah like there has never been nor will be after.
“Because you have said, ‘We have made a covenant with death, and with She`ol are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come to us; for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:’” (Isa. 28:15). “He shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease; and on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate; and even to the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out on the desolate.” (Dan. 9:27). Yisra`el signs a seven-year covenant of peace and security with Abomination that causes desolation. It is thought by many that the main cause of wars has been religion. Ironically, although this has been the reason, it was usually seen as a cover up of simple greed, thirst for power or land. In the case of Yisra`el, it is not religion that causes the wars, but Evil that wants to destroy Yahuah’s people.
If the Abomination can eliminate the main apparent cause of strife in Israel between the Jewish and Muslim ‘religions’ then peace would only follow. “Through his policy he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and in their security shall he destroy many:” (Dan. 8:25a).
“Seventy weeks are decreed on your people and on your set apart city, to finish disobedience, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity,” (Dan. 9:24a). The seventieth week of Dani’els prophecy is designated for the People of Yisra`el.
“shall he return into his land with great substance; and his heart shall be against the set apart covenant…” (Dan. 11:28a). The King of the North is determined to destroy the religion of Yahuah’s people. This is not a war to destroy the Jewish people but to rid the earth of the one true faith. “At the time appointed he shall return, and come into the south…” (Dan. 11:29a). The King of the North then attacks the south. As this is referenced from the view point of Yisra’el, the ‘south’ would probably mean Egypt. “For ships of Kittim shall come against him; therefore he shall be grieved, and shall return, and have indignation against the set apart covenant,” (Dan. 11:30a). The King of the North invades Egypt but the relief comes in ships to frighten him away. The term ‘Kittim’ (#H3794 כִּתִּים Ki-tee) generally islanders of the Mediterranean Sea but specifically Cypriots. This term has been incorrectly translated as ‘Romans’. If any large amphibious assault was to be organised by Western governments, it would be from Cyprus that be the final staging/assembly point would originate.
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“…he shall even return, and have regard to those who forsake the set apart covenant. Forces shall stand on his part, and they shall profane the sanctuary, even the fortress, and shall take away the continual burnt offering, and they shall set up the abomination that makes desolate.” (Dan. 11:30b, 31). The King of the North turns back to destroy the religion of Yahuah’s people. This is the full revelation of the Abomination.
“He who kills an ox is as he who kills a man; he who sacrifices a lamb, as he who breaks a dog’s neck; he who offers an offering, as he who offers pig’s blood; he who burns frankincense, as he who blesses an idol. Yes, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delights in their abominations: I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears on them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spoke, they did not hear: but they did that which was evil in my eyes, and chose that in which I did not delight.” (Isa. 66:3, 4). Yesha`yahu decribes what is to take place in the sanctuary that Yahuah had not sanctioned. However, it is my belief that the greatest abomination is the shedding of human blood within the sanctuary as a form of perversion of the sacrifices laid down by Torah. It could well be imagined that the Torahless one would be prevented from entering the Especially Set Apart Place by the High Priest. The High Priest would then be killed.
“But the Messiah having come as High Priest of the coming good things, through the greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation, nor yet through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, entered in once for all into the Most Set Apart Place, having obtained eternal redemption.” (Heb. 9:11, 12). When Yahuah looks down upon the scene and sees the blood of the High
Priest being shed in His sanctuary, His dwelling place on earth, He must see the grotesque perversion. The Torahless one enters the sanctuary only by the shedding of the blood of the High Priest. This is a direct insult against the blood of the Messiah, His Son, and this cannot go unaccounted for.
Once access is gained, the Torahless one then sets up a temple to worship himself that would include the services of male and female temple prostitutes.
He will then follow the advice of those who have abandoned that religion. This will be the secular leaders of Yisra`el either because they are deceived by the King of the North’s promises of peace and security or the secular leaders are jealous of the growing power of the religious leaders.
“Those who are wise among the people shall instruct many; yet they shall fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity and by spoil, many days.” (Dan. 11:33). The religious (righteous) people fight back but many are killed.
“When, therefore, you see the abomination of desolation, which was spoken of through Daniy`el the prophet, standing in the most set apart place (let the reader understand),” (Matt. 24:15). When the Abomination that causes desolation appears Mattiyahu warns that the reader must be under no illusion as to what is happening. Although many anti-Messiahs will arise, there will be no doubt as to the ‘authenticity’ of the Abomination. “Then the lawless one will be revealed…” (2 Thess. 2:8). The Abomination will be a man of Torahless-ness.
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“The king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the `Elohiym of gods; and he shall prosper until the indignation be accomplished; for that which is determined shall be done. Neither shall he regard the gods of his fathers, nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall magnify himself above all. But in his place shall he honour the god of fortresses…” (Dan. 11:36-38a). The Abomination considers himself above all gods but honours the god of the fortress or god of force, Moaz. This could be that the Abomination only honours power to fight wars (Nimrod?).
“He shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease; and on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate; and even to the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out on the desolate.” (Dan. 9:27). The Abomination stops the sacrifices midway through the seven year period of ‘peace’. This must mean that sacrifices had already been taking place. This is the trigger for the out-pouring of Yahuah’s wrath. Up to now Yahuah’s anger has been held in check, even though His people are suffering. However, this is a direct insult against the holiness of Yahuah that He cannot allow to pass or the nations will mock Yahuah saying that He was unable to help His people or defend His honour.
Temple/Tabernacle/Sanctuary
“Take heed to yourself that you do not offer your burnt offerings in every place that you see; but in the place which the Yahuah shall choose in one of your tribes, there you shall offer your burnt offerings, and there you shall do all that I command you.” (Deut 12:13, 14). For sacrifices to take place there must be a ‘Temple’.
“Forces shall stand on his part, and they shall profane the sanctuary, even the fortress, and shall take away the continual burnt offering, and they shall set up the abomination that makes desolate.” (Dan. 11:31). This is usually referred to as the Temple but it could also mean the Tabernacle or Sanctuary. ‘Sanctuary’ #H4720 מִקְדָּשׁ *1990f mik-dash that area given over to the dwelling place of Yahuah. “he who opposes and exalts himself against all that is called Yahuah or that is worshiped; so that he sits as Yahuah in the temple of Yahuah, setting himself up as Yahuah.” (2 Thess. 2:4). ‘Temple’ #G3485 ναός na-os holy place. This could mean any shrine but is normally used for the Kadosh Hakadeshim/The Most Set Apart Place.
In order that these sacrifices take place, the ‘Temple’ and all the serving priests must have been purified. This requires the ‘Waters of the Ashes of the Red Heifer’. “He who gathers the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the evening: and it shall be to the children of Yisra`el, and to the stranger who lives as a foreigner among them, for a statute forever.” (Num. 19:10). However, in order to produce the ‘Waters’ purified people must take part in the ritual. (Compare the Red Heifer with the Master. Red alludes to the need for blood to bring about purification. The killing of the heifer is carried out outside of the camp and is, therefore, not Temple dependent. All ritually clean people involved with this ceremony become ritually unclean [as with Yom Kippurim and the High Priest] in order that ‘unclean’ people can become ‘clean’.)
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This paradox is a major concern of the Jewish people. One idea to overcome this problem is to have male babies of the `Aharonic family to be put onto a special wooden structure raised above the ground and to have them live there. They will grow up without any worldly contamination and hence eligible to perform the red heifer ritual. UNLESS the service that consecrated the Tabernacle and priests in the wilderness takes place. This was accomplished without the red heifer etc.
For a Temple to be built, it must be on the site chosen by יְהֹוָה `Elohim i.e. the Temple Mount approximately where the Al Asqa Mosque is now (The Dome of the Rock Mosque). This would never be pulled down whilst there are any Muslims left on the planet. Therefore the Temple building of Ezek. 40:1- 44:31 must take place when there are no longer any Muslims.
There is a full sized model of the #H4908 מִשְׁכָּן *2387c mish-karn located in Timna Park near Eilat (www.biblicalplaces.com). However, this could well be ‘a giraffe in the room’. The usual phrase refers to an elephant, but it would be irreverent to equate a set apart site with an unclean animal; the giraffe is the largest clean animal. By this I believe that all rumours of a new Temple being dug out beneath the mosque, pre-fabricated building or the like put forward by the Temple Institute are a ruse to cover up the fact that the mishkan is already built. There may well appear more of these tourist sites to disguise the construction of the new True Mishkan. What is then required is for the mishkan to be cleansed using the waters of ashes of the red heifer.
“The whole congregation of the children of Yisra`el assembled themselves together at Shiloh, and set up the tent of meeting there: and the land was subdued before them.” (Josh. 18:1). However, recent archaeological discoveries have found what that may prove to be the site of the Tabernacle at Shiloh where it is said the mishkan rested for 369 years (www.unitedwithisrael.org). One of the tourist sites may well be here where the mishkan had a more permanent construction than the one used to travel through the Wilderness.
Part of the Temple sacrificial rituals are the furnishings. All these had been taken away by Titus in 70 C.E. no longer known where they are kept if they had not been destroyed. Even the Ark of the Covenant could be made again according to the original pattern given by Yahuah. The only original artefacts that could never be replaced are the Tablets of Stone for the Ten Words, the jar of Man(na), and `Aharons Rod. Only the Tablets were placed in the Ark by Shlomo (Solomon).
It is my belief that the original Ark was taken away either
i) during Shlomo’s reign (1 Kgs. 1) or
ii) the tribe of Dan’s escape south (from the Assyrians in 722 B.C.E. after Shlomo’s death and the split between Ysra`el and Yahudah) from Yisra`el to Ethiopia and lay hidden and guarded until recently. During Operation Solomon, Ethiopian Jews were airlifted back to Israel. This was to prevent rebels from killing the Jewish Ethiopians (and finding the Ark?). Is it this air-lift that brought back the Ark?
If the Tabernacle could be used, what happened to the original? I cannot believe that it would be destroyed. Is it still at Shiloh? This man went up out of his city from year to year to worship and to sacrifice to Yahuah of Hosts in Shiloh. The two sons of `Eli, Hofni and
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Pinechas, priests to Yahuah, were there. (1 Sam. 1:3) Is this the House of Yahuah that was built without His sanction? “Thus says Yahuah, ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: what manner of house will you build to me? and what place shall be my rest?’” (Isa. 66:1-2), His sanctuary that He rejected “Yahuah has cast off His altar, He has abhorred His sanctuary; He has given up into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces: They have made a noise in the house of Yahuah, as in the day of a solemn assembly.” (Lam. 2:7).
The confusion arises in the general translation of miqdash. This is usually loosely referred to as the Temple. However, it should more accurately refer to the Sanctuary/Most Set Apart Place/Holies of Holies. The original Sanctuary was in the mishkhan/Tabernacle built under Moshe’s directions. It was in the Tabernacle that the sacrifices took place. The Tabernacle was in use until the First Temple (Shlomo’s/Solomon’s) but within this Temple, there was a Sanctuary. Sacrifices were carried out in the Temple. The First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians, sacrifices temporarily halted, only to be re-instated when the Temple was rebuilt by Nechemyah (Nehemiah)/Ezra.
This was in use until Herod substantially extended and refurbished the Temple, known as the Second Temple (Herod’s). This Temple also contained the Sanctuary, sacrifices were offered up but finished when the Temple was destroyed by Titus in 70 C.E. This is the state that exists today.
It is commonly accepted that the Abomination that causes Desolation stops the sacrifices. In order for this to happen, sacrifices must have been re-instated some time prior to this. However, sacrifices can be offered up in the Tabernacle or the Temple. The Abomination desecrates the SANCTUARY not just the Tabernacle/Temple. Therefore, it is not necessary for a Temple to be built but there has to be a SANCTUARY.
Isa. 66:1, 2 refers to a SANCTARY not ordained by Yahuah I believe that this could well be a within a Tabernacle and not necessarily within a Temple. This is usually referred to as the Third Temple; but it is not a Temple. It is my belief that the Third Temple is that which is so accurately described by Yechezk`el (Ezekiel) in Ezek. 40:1-44:31.
There are three theories regarding the actual location of the First (Shlomo’s) and Second (Herod’s) Temples; the traditional (present) location, north of the Dome of the Rock and south of the Dome of the Rock. (www.templemount.org). Irrespective of what location is assigned to the Temple complex, there can only be one location of the Sanctuary. “It (haSatan) led Him (Yahusha) 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,’” (Luke 4:9).
HaSatan knows full well the exact location of the Sanctuary as it has been there before and it is my belief that it caused the Dome of the Rock to be built on the precise location of the Sanctuary. If a new Temple was to be built on a location that is not ordained by Yahuah, then this could well satisfy Isa. 66:1, 2.
There is a further scenario in that the Third Temple could be built on the Temple Mount. Since 1987, orthodox (and ultra-orthodox) Jews have instigated the Temple Movement and
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the re-establishment of the Sanhedrin, who are required to oversee the legal requirements of construction and operation of the Temple.
The New Jerusalem Covenant Project and the Elijah Interfaith Institute’s efforts to bring about a single building to be used by the Abrahamic Religions (Judaism, Islam and Christianity) along with other religions. This co-operation could be used for a similar building to the Center of HOPE or to gain concessions for the Third Temple to be built. (see also the maxi bible study – End Times Part 2 – Redemption – Teachings of Izevel p.8).
Notwithstanding any legal requirement, if it is not sanctioned by Yahuah, then it falls under the prohibition of Isa. 66:1, 2.
Preparation
What must non-Believers do?
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matt. 7:7). “so that they should seek the Messiah, in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us,” (Acts 17:27). “For Yahuah so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16). Non-Believers must seek salvation. There will be a Judgement. Non-Believers are destined for Hell (see maxi bible study Sin, Judgement and Punishment) and the reality will be far worse than anything man can imagine.
With the breakdown of Law and Order that will surely be a result of the Lawless One taking control, a non-Believer must make provision for their survival. “For He said to Moshe, ‘I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.’” (Rom. 9:15). “that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For He makes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.” (Matt. 5:45). Yahuah is Sovereign and His grace, mercy and provision knows no limits according to His Will. However, it is more likely that the provision will be withheld from non-Believers.
Various assumptions have to be made including a disconnection from all electricity, water, food, sanitation etc. and that if anyone has something others have not, the others will do their best to take away the supplies. If the infrastructure is still in operation, it may be that Believers will not have access to these, “and that no one would be able to buy or to sell, unless he has that mark, the name of the beast or the number of his name.” (Rev. 13:17). However, any form of self-provision can only be for a limited time. The main concern is for the first few weeks when law and order may collapse. Therefore, provisions should be laid up for 120 days, longer if possible, so that the authorities may regain control of the streets and countryside. These can be summarised under eight categories: water, food, protection, communications, shelter, currency, transport and ‘essentials’. Below are some suggestions that may lead to other ideas.
Water – The main consideration is water without which a person can only survive a few days. Therefore, any preparation must take in to account water. At present in the USA, Europe, and Pacific-rim countries, water is piped into homes via treatment works but the security of
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any or all of the utilities cannot be relied upon. Bottled water may be stored but the volume will be prohibitive. Bottled water stored for any length of time must be replaced with fresh water.
Food – Again volume must be considered therefore a high calorific value/low volume food is required. For this high-quality food oils such as olive, coconut and peanut are ideal. Into this mixed milled seed such as flax, hemp and chia can be added and ground to form a high
calorie/high fibre. Then various admixtures of liquid and seed may be used to provide variations of taste and nutrition. Many have suggested that it would be beneficial to keep livestock such as chickens. However, it would be of vital importance to remain low-key and not to advertise the whereabouts of supplies.
Protection – This is providing security for the home and person. Apart from firearms, it is very difficult to have full protection and killing must be the absolute final
consideration. This would not contravene Scripture, “You shall not murder,” (Exod. 20:13) that is commonly mis-translated as ‘to kill’ but rather should read ‘to murder’ that allows for self-defence. Bullets and cartridges would be difficult to store and transport. The use of a sling or catapult, in the right hands can be equally fatal, “Dawid put his hand in his bag, and took there a stone, and slang it, and struck the Pelishti in his forehead; and the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth.”(1 Sam. 17:49). These are also easier to transport and have ammunition readily at hand. Bamboo canes are extremely light but strong and can be used even by young children to disarm an intruder of a knife.
Communications – With the loss of mobile communications getting in touch with others will prove problematic. Hand written messages can be left in pre-selected areas. A battery powered or wind up radio may be used to hear of any developments in the situation.
Shelter – Consideration should be taken as when to abandon the home if necessary. A family or small community may have a pre-arranged safe haven to which to escape. Tents and water-proof clothing would be essential in temperate climes.
Currency – This word has been deliberately chosen over money. In the event of a complete failure of society bank notes and coins would be almost worthless. Although gold coins are useful for major expenditure, it may be useful to have a stock of broken jewellery especially broken chains that may be clipped for smaller outlay.
Transport – Motor fuel will be virtually impossible to get hold of therefore animals or bicycles are to be considered. These would also be useful for off-road travel.
Essentials – This covers a multitude of material from medication to infant food and diapers, items that cannot be missed out.
What then must Believers do?
“I therefore, the prisoner in the Messiah, beg you to walk worthily of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and humility, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love; being eager to keep the unity of HaRuach in the bond of shalom.” (Eph. 4:1-3).
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“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with the Messiah in Yahuah. When the Messiah, who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Therefore, put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” (Col. 3:2-5).
“that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of Yahuah.” (1 Peter 4:2). “So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly. Therefore, be watchful all the time, asking that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34, 36). Believers must be continually on guard, especially concerning their own lives.
“I ask then, did they stumble that they might fall? May it never be! But by their fall salvation has come to the Gentiles, to provoke them to jealousy.” (Rom. 11:11). Believers need to incite Jewish non-Believers to want what they have not been able to attain and lead them to repentance. This is not to be to the exclusion of Gentile non-Believers but is stressing the extra effort that must be taken in order to show Jewish people that their Messiah is the same Messiah as Believers. “do not boast over the branches. But if you boast, it is not you who support the root, but the root supports you.” (Rom. 11:18). It is important that Gentile Believers must not gloat over the Jewish people, but to glorify the Messiah who is the common Root of both Jew and Gentile.
“looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great `Elohiym and Saviour, Yahusha the Messiah;” (Titus 2:13). This Messiah will return and all Believers must look continually and constantly with expectation of the return of Messiah (cf. Titus Chs. 2 & 3). “For they themselves report concerning us what kind of a reception we had from you; and how you turned to Yahuah from idols, to serve a living and true Yahuah, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead — Yahusha, who delivers us from the wrath to come.” (1 Thess. 9, 10). Wait for the Messiah to return expecting it to certainly take place.
“You are all sons of light, and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night, nor to darkness, so then let’s not sleep, as the rest do, but let us watch and be sober. For those who sleep, sleep in the night, and those who are drunken are drunken in the night. For those who sleep, sleep in the night, and those who are drunken are drunken in the night.” (1 Thess. 5:5-8). Believers must remain in the Light (of the Messiah) and stay vigilant: “For you are my lamp, Yahuah; Yahuah will lighten my darkness.” (2 Sam. 22:29).The Yahuah is a lamp. “Your word is a lamp to my feet, And a light to my path.” (Psa. 119:105). The Word is a lamp. “…that Yahuah is light, and in Him is no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5b). Yahuah is Light. “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men… The true light that enlightens everyone was coming into the world.” (John 1:4-9).Yahusha is that Light.
“For the commandment [is] a lamp; and the law [is] light; and reproofs of instruction [are] the way of life:” (Prov. 6:23 KJV). The Torah is the light. “He who loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no occasion for stumbling in him.” (1 John 2:10). “You shall command the children of Yisra`el, that they bring to you pure olive oil beaten for the light, to cause a lamp to burn continually.” (Exod. 27:20). The children of Yisra`el are commanded to cause the lamp to burn continually. This is a commandment to all Believers to proclaim the Messiah to the world.
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“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom…Watch therefore, for you do not know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” (Matt. 25:1-13). This parable of the Ten Virgins speaks of being well prepared for the Messiah’s return. In this parable, all ten virgins had lamps (commandments) but only the wise virgins had oil (HaRuach). In the parable there are two types of people mentioned; those with without oil and those with. I believe that this refers to all people that know the Torah(in this case the entire Scriptures both Tanakh and Renewed Covenant) but only some of them carrying out its requirements. The only possible way to do this is by having the in-dwelling Ruach HaQodesh leading those people that have placed their eternal trust in the perfect atonement offered by the shed blood of the Messiah Yahusha in the Truth.
“Every tree that does not grow good fruit is cut down, and thrown into the fire. Therefore, by their fruits you will know them. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Master, Master,’ will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven… Everyone therefore who hears these words of mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house on a rock… Everyone who hears these words of mine, and does not do them will be like a foolish man, who built his house on the sand.”
(Matt. 7:19-21, 24, 26). I believe that this parable is a parallel to Matt. 25: 1-13. In this parable the Master calls people ‘wise’ if they listen intently (#G191 ἀκούω a-koo-oh), understand and obey (cf שָׁמַע sha-mare) His words and be saved. Likewise, those who do not obey are called ‘foolish’ and are cast out even though they have called upon His Name.
“You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 5: 14-16). It is imperative to stress that carrying out the commandments does not impart salvation but is done to glorify Yahuah. ‘Commandments are not to be done to be saved but what is done when we are saved!’
“…My son, do not take lightly the chastening of the Yahuah, Nor faint when you are reproved by Him;” (Heb. 12:5b). “as children of obedience, not conforming yourselves according to your former lusts as in your ignorance,” (1 Peter 1:14). “Yahuah knows how to deliver the godly out of temptation and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment;” (2 Peter 2:9). With Yahuah’s help, resist all temptation to sin (cf. all 2 Peter 2).
“Grace to you and shalom be multiplied in the knowledge of Yahuah and of Yahusha our Master, seeing that His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and virtue; Therefore, brothers, be more diligent to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. Yes, I will make every effort that you may always be able to remember these things even after my departure.” (2 Peter 1:2, 3, 10, 15). Shim`on
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Keefa was a fisherman by trade. This made him a very practical man, and this can be seen in his exhortation to the multiple generations of Believers that came after him. At first sight, v5 may seem to say that you can bolster your salvation through works. This is not so. Many people think (and have been erroneously taught) that in order to obtain salvation through the Messiah Yahusha, all that is needed is a momentary change of habit and a quick prayer, common during large ‘crusades’ when people get caught up in an ecstatic moment and rush to the preacher or his helpers. Again, this is not so. By regular fellowship with other Believers, being discipled by mature Believers, praying and studying privately and corporately all come under the heading of ‘being diligent’. Compare your lifestyle to that commanded in Scripture, and see if your salvation is true. Shim`on Keefa outlines some of these in vv5-9.
“Little children, let no one lead you astray. He who does righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous.” (1 John 3:7). There is only one way to determine if the way is according to Yahuah’s will, and that is through the study of His Word.
“So also you, since you are zealous for HaRuach’s gifts, seek that you may abound to the building up of the assembly.” (1 Cor. 14:12). Believers need to earnestly seek out the Gifts of haRuach. This is not just a casual look but to strive until they are found and used to build up the Body of Yahuah. “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, 12). Along with the Gifts of HaRuach, it is vital that all Believers seek out the ministry to which Yahuah has called them. The Adversary’s time of influence is running out and it is fighting a losing battle. A Believer must be able to take the fight to demonic forces and this can only be done utilizing all the Gifts of HaRuach.
“Yahuah has set some in the assembly: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracle workers, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, and various kinds of languages. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all miracle workers? Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with various languages? Do all interpret? But earnestly desire the best gifts…” (1 Cor. 12:28-31a). Apostles need to plant congregations; prophets to prophesy; evangelists to evangelize; teachers to teach; pastors to shepherd their flock.
My uncle, Tom Welding, once said that sole purpose of all the armed forces (Royal Navy, RAF, REME, Medical Corps, and Intelligence etc) is to put an Infantryman on the ground at a spot marked X on a map. Wars may be won remotely but in order to keep the peace there must be a soldier with a gun on the ground. Likewise, it is my belief that all the Gifts of the Ruach and Offices of the Ruach are for the sole purpose of supporting the Evangelist.
“From that time, Yahusha began to preach, and to say, ‘Repent! For the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.’” (Matt. 4:17). This is the main purpose for the Body of Yahuah as it was the main purpose of the ministry of the Master. Unfortunately, the Infantryman (Evangelist) is a most risk. In Afghanistan, the Infantryman has the greatest death toll (www.telegraph.co.uk www.abcnews.go.com). Some units (Marines, RAF, and Sappers etc.) have a proportionally higher percentage due to their specialised roles and limited numbers of personnel but the greatest number of casualties is of the frontline soldier – the Infantryman.
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“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in the Messiah Yahusha will suffer persecution.” (2 Tim. 3:12). Whether there is a belief in Pre, Post-Troubles, Pre-wrath Snatching Away or Present Day Troubles, all beliefs have no doubt that conditions for true Believers will get worse. To what extent this persecution develops is uncertain. As a believer in a Pre-Troubles Snatching Away, I expect that once Believers are taken up to meet Messiah, there will be a great evangelical move and new Believers will be born-again, and it is these that experience Ya`akov’s Troubles. Whatever happens, Believers will need to look for survival outwith the world system.
“Were not the Kushim and the Luvim a huge host, with chariots and horsemen exceeding many? yet, because you did rely on the Yahuah, he delivered them into your hand.” (2 Chron. 16:8). Unless a Believer puts their complete trust in Yahuah all other precautions will come to naught.
“Now therefore do not be afraid. I will nourish you and your little ones. He comforted them, and spoke kindly to them.” (Gen. 50:21). This verse is in fact a command and the first part is an imperative translated as “Fear not!” in other Bible versions. “I have been young, and now am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, Nor his children begging for bread.” (Psa. 37:25). Yahuah supernaturally provided for Moshe on Mount Sinai (removing the need for food and water or providing them at the top of the mountain) and for the Yisra`elites in their Wilderness wanderings.
“…on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of Mitzrayim…and the children of Yisra`el said to them, ‘…you have brought us out into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.’…It happened at evening that quail came up and covered the camp; and in the morning the dew lay around the camp.” (Exod. 16:1-13). Yahuah” again supernaturally provides food and water. Nevertheless, the Yisra`elites grumbled that although they were sustained by the dew, it was not satisfying their carnal thirst.
“‘Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horev. You shall strike the rock and water will come out of it, that you people may drink.’ Moshe did so in the sight of the Elders of Yisra`el.” (Exod. 17:6). It may be that Yahuah could have kept them alive without food and water. Even after the first Pesach and Sea of Suf experiences they lacked trust in Yahuah therefore He had to give them physical signs of His provision. However, it is not doubting Yahuah if sensible preparations are taken to provide for a family similar to that of above.
“Eliyah the Tishbi…The word of Yahuah came to him saying, ‘Get you hence and turn you eastward and hide yourself by the brook Kerit, that is before the Yarden. It shall be that you shall drink of the brook and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there.’” (1 Kg. 17:1-4). In the account of Eliyah, Yahuah supplied him with food, even using an unclean animal such as a raven. Yahuah’s supernatural provision of shows that Believers will not be without food and water, even if the animals have to bring it. “It happened after a while that the brook dried up because there was no rain in the land. The word of Yahuah came to him saying, ‘Arise, get you to Tzarfat, which belongs to Tzidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow there to sustain you.’…She said,’ As Yahuah your `Elohiym lives…’” (1Kg. 17:9-12). When the natural provision of water failed because of the drought
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(but the food kept coming) Yahuah sent Eliyah to Tzarfat. There he was provided with food and shelter by a non-Believer Phoenician woman. She, in turn, was blessed for her obedience by the supernatural provision of oil and the healing of her son (1 Kg. 17:12 -24). Likewise, Believers will be cared for by non-Believers who shall be blessed for their kindness.
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.
Harris R.L., Archer G.L., Thoelogical Wordbook of the Old Testament, Moody, Chicago, Waltke B.K. (1980) Il. (Denoted by *).
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).
www.templemount.org/theories.html
www.telegraph.co.uk/News/UKNews/Defence
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.
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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.
17 U.S. Code § 107 – Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use
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(1) the purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of a commercial nature or is for non-profit educational purposes;
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(4) the effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work.
The fact that a work is unpublished shall not itself bar a finding of fair use if such finding is made upon consideration of all the above factors.
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First Generation Assembly 