Category Archives: ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY

BAPTISM, BIBLE VERSIONS AND MANUSCRIPTS, CREATION AND EARLY MAN, ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, How did the Great Flood’s water save the eight souls in 1 Peter 3:20?, How did the Great Flood’s water save the eight souls in 1 Peter 3:20?, How did the Great Flood’s water save the eight souls in 1 Peter 3:20?, How did the Great Flood’s water save the eight souls in 1 Peter 3:20?

How did the Great Flood’s water save the eight souls in 1 Peter 3:20?

HOW DID THE GREAT FLOOD’S WATER SAVE THE EIGHT SOULS IN 1 PETER 3:20?

by Shawn Brasseaux

A very awkward preposition appears in 1 Peter 3:20 of the King James Bible: “Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.” Did not the water of the Great Flood in Noah’s lifetime drown and kill? Then, how is it that eight souls were “saved by water?” And, from what did that water save them? Lastly, why would the Apostle Peter even mention in his first epistle something that happened so long ago?

The Great Flood of Noah’s lifetime was the most catastrophic event ever to occur in human history. There was unparalleled devastation, literally worldwide ruin, in all natural realms. With greatly accelerated rates of erosion, transportation, and deposition of sediment, Earth’s surface was drastically changed. Even its atmosphere was altered significantly. With the exception of those on the Ark, all members of the animal kingdom died. Save the eight souls onboard, the entire human race perished in watery graves. Such violent waters drowned many millions of—perhaps a few billion—people. Today’s fossil record is one of the evidences of a worldwide, systematic extermination of all kinds of life-forms. Modern floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, mudslides, and tsunamis we experience allow us to partially understand the terrible natural conditions that occurred during the Great Deluge. Massive canyons with “puny” rivers flowing through them, major orogeny (mountain building), the divisions of continental landmasses, gigantic impact craters, and other physical landforms, show us Earth’s history has the blot of an unmatched and cataclysmic event. (As an Earth scientist, I enjoyed that digression, but let us now get back to the Bible text!)

Depending on the context, the Greek word “dia” can be translated either “by” or “through.” In the King James Bible, it was rendered “by” in 1 Peter 3:20: “eights souls were saved by water.” Some modern English versions make the verse say “through.” That is, “by” was so problematic that the standard 400-year-old English reading was changed to “through.” When reading the King James Bible, some will actually have the audacity to “correct” the word “by” and make the text say “through” (encouraging unbelief and the exaltation of man’s opinions over God’s Word). If we give our Authorized Version translators the benefit of the doubt, however, we will wind up in faith rather than doubt. What if I told you that verse 21 held the key to the proper translation of the word “dia” in verse 20? Let me prove it to you.

We turn to read 1 Peter 3:21: “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:….” Is water baptism “saving” these individuals? Well, if words mean anything, the answer is, “YES!” “…[E]ven baptism doth also now save us….” Is water “saving” those in verse 21? Yes! Could water in verse 20 (our “problem” verse) be “saving” those in that verse 20? Yes! Verse 21’s “the like figure” points back to verse 20. The Noahic floodwaters of verse 20 preview that which those in verse 21 are saved by (and from)! If that sounds like nonsense, just wait a bit longer for me to flesh it out. It will become clear shortly.

Think about what was going on during the time of the Great Flood. (Historically, those events are recorded in the Bible in Genesis chapters 7 and 8.) Water was coming from beneath Earth’s surface, and it was coming down from heaven. A universal ocean was forming on the planet. All landmasses—even their mountain ranges—were completely covered. As water levels rose because of the rain and groundwater introductions, as the continental plates sank, and as the oceanic plates rose to deliver seawater onto the landmasses, Earth’s surface was progressively inundated. The lowest elevations (coastal plains, canyons, lake/sea basins, river valleys, et cetera) were filled first. Of course, mountains were the last to flood. Animal, plant, and human carcasses floated. Sediments—even gigantic boulders—were lifted and carried about and violently deposited. (Sorry for the science excursion again!)

What else rose with those water levels? Why, the Ark, the buoyant and waterproof boat that God commanded Noah to build to the saving of his house (Genesis chapter 6). That giant marvelous vessel began to lift from the surface of Earth. In fact, the language of the Bible is that the water level had to rise for 40 days around the world before the Ark actually began to float! Genesis 7:17-18: “And the flood was forty days upon the earth; and the waters increased, and bare up the ark, and it was lift up above the earth. And the waters prevailed, and were increased greatly upon the earth; and the ark went upon the face of the waters.” While it is mathematically impossible to figure out the volume of water needed to bring this to pass, the mere thought is staggering… to say the least!

Getting back to the Apostle Peter’s comments, we can see why the Holy Spirit said what He did. Why did the 1611 translators choose the word “by” instead of “through?” Something did not merely save Noah and his family through the water (as in the Ark passing through the water). There is more going on in Genesis chapters 7 and 8. Peter’s emphasis is on the water actually saving them. Remember, verse 21 says that water baptism saves Peter’s audience (which is certainly not us, but the nation Israel). In keeping with verse 21, verse 20 would have water saving people as well. The floodwaters in Noah’s day had a dual application. Firstly, they destroyed the evil human race and made way for a new world. Secondly, the waters lifted up Noah and his family, as the Ark floated above God’s judgment poured out on that wicked civilization. Without the water carrying the Ark, those in the Ark could not be saved from the water. Buoyancy in the water kept them from drowning with all the others in the water!

When the Holy Spirit led Peter to write 1 Peter 3:21, He was pointing back to Ezekiel as well as Matthew (and John the Baptist). Water baptism in Israel’s program symbolizes national repentance and cleansing from idolatry. Notice Ezekiel chapter 36: “[21] But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen, whither they went. [22] Therefore say unto the house of Israel, thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went. [23] And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.

“[24] For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. [25] Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. [26] A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.” (Please notice verse 25 especially—the sprinkling of clean water to cleanse Israel from all her filthiness and all her idols.)

Following Ezekiel’s prophecy, John the Baptist conducted his ministry. Matthew 3:1-12 tells us all about it: “[1] In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, [2] And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [3] For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.

“[5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: [9] And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

“[10] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: [12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”

The Jews coming to John’s water baptism were preparing for God’s wrath to come (see verse 7 above). God’s wrath was approaching, soon to be poured out upon idolatrous Israel. Those who had come in faith and repentance to John’s baptism would be saved through that wrath (seven-year Tribulation and subsequent Second Coming of Christ). That wrath was anticipated in early Acts. Hence, the Apostle Peter continued preaching water baptism, as Acts 2:38-40 confirms: “[38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. [39] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. [40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.”

That “untoward generation” (verse 40) was the unbelieving, rebellious Jews. Weeks earlier, they had rejected and crucified Jesus as a fraud, a liar. Instead of trusting Him as Messiah, they denied Him. Unfortunately, they were still in unbelief on the Day of Pentecost (Acts chapter 2). These people would be consumed in God’s wrath. Peter urged his Jewish audience to leave apostate Israel and join the “Little Flock” (Israel’s believing remnant). As the Lord Jesus had said in Luke 12:32, members of this Little Flock would be the heirs of the literal, physical, visible, Davidic kingdom that Israel had been expecting for many centuries. Read Jesus’ comments in Luke 12:31-31: “[31] But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. [32] Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

CONCLUSION

Just as the floodwaters bore the Ark, so that it floated and delivered the believers from God’s wrath, so water baptism delivers the believing Jews from being consumed in God’s wrath during the Tribulation and Second Coming of Christ. The water “saved” Noah and his family by floating them to safety. Likewise, the water baptism “saves” Israel by preserving them through that fiery wrath of the end-times. We have no reason to change the King James Bible in 1 Peter 3:20—eight souls were saved “by” water. This is in accordance with Jewish souls being saved “by” water during the conclusion of Israel’s prophetic program (future from us). Hence, I will leave the King James Bible text alone and just believe it. I have no business correcting it; it should be correcting me. (And, as far as I am concerned, it just did.)

Also see:
» Can you explain 1 Peter 3:18-21?
» Do I need water baptism?
» Why was water baptism necessary in Israel’s program?

ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, THE NATION ISRAEL, Why does “overturn” appear thrice in Ezekiel 21:27?, Why does “overturn” appear thrice in Ezekiel 21:27?

Why does “overturn” appear thrice in Ezekiel 21:27?

WHY DOES “OVERTURN” APPEAR THRICE IN EZEKIEL 21:27?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Ezekiel 21:27 says, “I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.” Why does “overturn” appear three specific times? Is it for emphasis, or perhaps some other reason? And, what is the “it” that is being “overturned?” We will study the Bible for answers.

Let us look at the verse in context. The Prophet Ezekiel wrote in Ezekiel 21:25-27: “[25] And thou, profane wicked prince of Israel, whose day is come, when iniquity shall have an end, [26] Thus saith the LORD God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high. [27] I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.”

JEHOVAH God was upset with the Jewish king reigning at the time of Ezekiel 21:25. He called that king “a profane wicked prince of Israel.” God promised to judge the nation of Judah (southern Israel) and put an end to that evil. He would accomplish this by removing the diadem and the crown from that king and his descendants. Verse 26 again: “Thus saith the LORD God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high.” By the way, “diadem” is an archaic term meaning “the authority or dignity symbolized by a crown.”

Now, we move to verse 27: “I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.” In light of verse 26, the “it” is the royal power, or political might, of Israel. Israel will fall politically, losing her special governmental authority in the Earth. The Gentiles, or non-Jewish nations, will enter the Promised Land, take Israel captive, and sorely oppress her. She will no longer be the head of the nations; she will now be downtrodden of the nations.

Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem while King Jehoiakim was on the throne (2 Kings 24:1-9)—approximately 606 B.C. Jehoiachin, Jehoiakim’s son, was ruling over Judah when Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem again (2 Kings 24:10-20)—circa 597 B.C. When Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem the third and final time, about 586 B.C., Zedekiah was King of Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:1ff.). This fits nicely with Ezekiel 21:27: the first “overturn” (or abolishment) of Israel’s political might was Jehoiakim’s deposal, the second “overturn” was Jehoiachin’s deposal, and the third “overturn” was Zedekiah’s deposal. During those three sieges, Nebuchadnezzar removed from power three Jewish kings, three descendants of King David, taking away, or “overturning,” Israel’s political strength. Israel’s political fall was gradual, spanning approximately 20 years.

HOPE FOR ISRAEL’S DIADEM AND CROWN

Friend, we dare not end this study on a sad note because the Bible does not end on a sad note, either. In the midst of such severe judgment, Israel’s mighty political fall, JEHOVAH God provided her with a hope. Her political fall, as terrible and devastating as it was, would be only temporary. Reading Ezekiel 21:25-27 again, see if you can spot God’s promise of restoration: “[25] And thou, profane wicked prince of Israel, whose day is come, when iniquity shall have an end, [26] Thus saith the LORD God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high. [27] I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.”

Notice the last clause of verse 27: “and it shall be no more, until he come whose right it is; and I will give it him.” During that fifth and final course of judgment (Leviticus chapter 26), already operating in Ezekiel’s day, God would take the crown from Israel’s king. That Davidic throne will never be returned to Israel “until”—notice a schedule is already set—it is given to the Man “whose right it is.” Who is this Man, the Person who is the rightful head of Israel’s government? Why, the “New Testament” Scriptures scream His name—the Lord Jesus Christ! In due time, He will sit on that throne!

For example, Luke chapter 1: “[31] And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. [32] He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: [33] And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.”

Also, Acts chapter 2: “[29] Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. [30] Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; [31] He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. [32] This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.”

Saints, please remember us in your monthly giving. You can donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux, or email me at arcministries@gmail.com. Do not forget about Bible Q&A booklets for sale at https://arcgraceministries.org/in-print/booklets-bible-q-a/. Thanks to all who give to and pray for us! 🙂

Also see:
» What is the difference between “the kingdom of God” and “the kingdom of heaven?”
» Did the 12 preach the Gospel of the Kingdom after Christ ascended?
» Could you explain, “I will give you the sure mercies of David?”

ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, Who is the “child” of Revelation 12:1-5?

Who is the “child” of Revelation 12:1-5?

WHO IS THE “CHILD” OF REVELATION 12:1-5?

by Shawn Brasseaux

The Bible says in Revelation chapter 12: “[1] And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: [2] And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered. [3] And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. [4] And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. [5] And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.”

Who is this “child” mentioned in verses 2, 4, and 5? The common teaching is that it is Jesus Christ. After all, He was a member of the nation Israel (Matthew 1:1), He is to rule all nations with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15), and He was caught up to God and His throne (Mark 16:19; Luke 24:51; Acts 1:9-11). But, does that necessarily make Jesus the “child” of Revelation chapter 12? Could someone else be that child? We will scan the Bible text for clues.

John the Apostle penned an interesting set of verses, Revelation 2:24-27: “[24] But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. [25] But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. [26] And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: [27] And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.”

To those Jewish believers who overcome (the reign and deception of Antichrist), Jesus Christ promises them they will rule over the nations with a rod of iron (verses 26-27). So, not only does Jesus Christ rule over the nations with the rod of iron, He will also appoint believing Jews—or “the circumcision believers”—to rule over the nations under Him. These Jewish kingdom believers will share Christ’s authority over the nations. After all, Jesus Christ is called “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16). He is King and He is Lord, but He has kings and lords serving under Him in His government. Just as His Father appointed Him, so He appoints them. Revelation 12:5—born of Israel and ruling all nations with a rod of iron—is not exclusive to Jesus Christ. It is also true of believing Jews in Israel’s program. But, there is more.

In order to “re-start” Israel’s program after our Dispensation of Grace ends, God will use 144,000 male Jewish preachers. We read about them in Revelation chapter 7: “[1] And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. [2] And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, [3] Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. [4] And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.”

These 144,000—on earth in the aforementioned chapter 7—are suddenly caught up into heaven. Revelation chapter 14: “[1] And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. [2] And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: [3] And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. [4] These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. [5] And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.”

This is not the Rapture and it has nothing to do with us the Church the Body of Christ, please note! Revelation chapters 7 and 14 are talking about the 144,000 Jewish men (verse 4) who will preach during the first 3½ years (or so) of the seven-year Tribulation. This group is the “child” of Revelation chapter 12. That is, Israel will “give birth” to a group of preachers. Also, that group of preachers will rule over the nations in Christ’s earthly kingdom (following the Tribulation, in the Millennium, 1000-year reign). Furthermore, that group of preachers will be caught up into heaven roughly halfway through the seven-year Tribulation. Satan will unsuccessfully try to harm or kill them.

It would not make sense for the Apostle John, in Revelation chapter 12, to reach back into Israel’s history and suddenly start talking about Jesus’ birth (Matthew chapter 2), and His ascension (Acts chapter 1). No, the “child” in Revelation chapter 12 is future. It is Israel’s believing remnant, chiefly the 144,000 Jewish preachers. These 144,000 will come from the nation Israel (Revelation chapter 7), they will rule over the nations in the Millennium (Revelation chapter 2), and they will be caught up to God and His throne in heaven (Revelation chapter 14).

Also see:
» Why does Revelation chapter 7 not list all 12 tribes of Israel?
» Is the Rapture in Matthew 24 and Luke 17?
» Are we “doom and gloom” prophecy believers?

BIBLE CONTRADICTIONS / CONFUSING VERSES SIMPLIFIED, ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, Is Revelation 22:15 referring to sinners just outside of the New Jerusalem?, Is Revelation 22:15 referring to sinners just outside of the New Jerusalem?

Is Revelation 22:15 referring to sinners just outside of the New Jerusalem?

IS REVELATION 22:15 REFERRING TO SINNERS JUST OUTSIDE OF THE NEW JERUSALEM?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Revelation 22:15 is quite a problem for some people because they wonder how evil people can be just outside the gates of the city of New Jerusalem. “For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.” After all, 2 Peter 3:12-13 says that in the New Heaven, New Earth, there will be nothing but righteousness. And, Revelation 21:8 says all those sinners listed in Revelation 22:15 are in the lake of fire. How can they be just outside of New Jerusalem’s city gates? Simple! (They are not!)

Let us start reading in Revelation chapter 22 so we can pick up the thought-flow of verse 15: “[8] And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. [9] Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. [10] And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. [11] He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. [12] And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. [13] I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. [14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. [15] For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.”

Again, you can see how people would have problems with verse 15. The assumption is that the “dogs, sorcerers, whoremongers, murderers, idolaters, and whosoever loves and makes a lie” are “without” (outside) the city of verse 14. The “city” is the New Jerusalem, first mentioned in the previous chapter.

We go back to Revelation chapter 21 to read: “[1] And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. [2] And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. [3] And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. [4] And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. [5] And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. [6] And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. [7] He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. [8] But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

According to 2 Peter 3:12-13, only righteousness dwells in the New Heavens, New Earth: “[12] Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? [13] Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.” Revelation 21:8 says the wicked are in the lake of fire at that time: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” The wicked are not in the New Heaven and New Earth at all, so they are certainly not just outside the gates of New Jerusalem. Then what does Revelation 21:15 refer to? They are “without” in reference to what? Not the city of New Jerusalem or the city gates!

Revelation 22:11-14 provides explanation: “[11] He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. [12] And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. [13] I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. [14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. [15] For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.”

Verses 11-14, as well as verse 15, all discuss what is true during John’s lifetime. These sinners will one day be in the lake of fire, but they are not there yet at the time John is receiving and writing the book of the Revelation. When verse 15 says “without,” it refers to people outside of Israel’s believing remnant in John’s day. Revelation 21:15 refers to the first century A.D., not the New Jerusalem! (The same could be said of verse 11.)

Revelation 22:11 is John’s exhortation to believers and unbelievers in his own day: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. [12] And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” This is all in context of before Christ’s coming, before the establishment of New Jerusalem. John urges the believing Israeli remnant to keep God’s commandments until Jesus Christ returns, for there are many outside of them who do not keep God’s commandments (Revelation 22:15). Revelation 22:13-15 again: “[13] I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. [14] Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. [15] For without [outside of Israel’s Little Flock, believing remnant] are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.”

Also see:
» When was the Book of the Revelation written?
» What does “Lord of Sabaoth” mean?
» What about the Jews who reject Jesus Christ?

BIBLE CONTRADICTIONS / CONFUSING VERSES SIMPLIFIED, Could you explain John 1:51?, Could you explain John 1:51?, ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY

Could you explain John 1:51?

COULD YOU EXPLAIN JOHN 1:51?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Some have expressed great difficulty with John 1:51: “And he [Jesus] saith unto him [Nathanael], Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” When exactly was this fulfilled—Christ’s earthly ministry, or is it still awaiting fulfillment? “For what saith the Scriptures?”

John 1:51 should bring to mind the “Old Testament” reference we know as “the dream of Jacob’s ladder.” Some 1800 years before Christ, Jacob, living in the Promised Land, experienced the following in Genesis 28:10-15: “[10] And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. [11] And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. [12] And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. [13] And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; [14] And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. [15] And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.”

In verse 12, Jacob witnessed a ladder extending from Earth to Heaven. He also saw the angels of God ascending and descending to Earth via that ladder. Notice they are not descending and ascending, but rather ascending from and descending to Earth. That is, planet Earth is the headquarters of God’s rule. This is the cross-reference to John 1:51: “And he [Jesus] saith unto him [Nathanael], Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” Notice John has the same order as Genesis 28:12—“ascending and descending.” (We will return to this later. For now, observe how these two concepts are related.)

Why did Jacob have this dream? It was God confirming the Abrahamic Covenant to him, since Jacob was Abraham’s grandson (verses 13-14). This was the covenant God had first given to Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3, Genesis 13:14-17, Genesis 15:1-6, Genesis 17:1-19, Genesis 22:15-19). God then passed that covenant on to Abraham’s son Isaac (Genesis 21:12, Genesis 26:1-5). In the context of Genesis chapter 28, God has passed that covenant to Isaac’s son Jacob (Genesis 28:13-14). The bloodline of the nation Israel, and the bloodline of Messiah Jesus, is being formed here. Jacob will go on to have 12 sons, and these 12 men will become the 12 tribes of Israel (Acts 7:8).

We continue reading in Genesis chapter 28: “[16] And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not. [17] And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. [18] And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it. [19] And he called the name of that place Bethel: but the name of that city was called Luz at the first. [20] And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, [21] So that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the LORD be my God: [22] And this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God’s house: and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee.”

In verse 17, Jacob says, “How dreadful [awesome, magnificent] is this place!” He calls the place “Bethel” (its former name was “Luz”). The name “Bethel” means “the House of God,” “God’s House,” or “where God lives” (cf. verses 17 and 22). Furthermore, Jacob realizes the area he is living in is “the gate of heaven” (verse 17). The word “gate” here means “government” (cf. Genesis 19:1). Earth is the headquarters for God’s rule; His governmental powers in creation are centered on Earth. Jesus spoke John 1:51 in this light. In the Millennium (1,000-year earthly kingdom), the angels will ascend from Earth to Heaven, and descend from Heaven to Earth. They will report to and take orders from King Jesus Christ reigning in Jerusalem on Earth. The Lord Jesus will literally be ruling from David’s throne in Jerusalem on Earth (Isaiah 2:1-4; Joel 3:17; Zechariah 14:1-4,9,16-17; Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 5:10; Revelation 20:4,6; et cetera).

Remember, the purpose of the Abrahamic Covenant was for God to reign on the Earth in a kingdom. The redeemed nation Israel would be His kingdom of priests to evangelize the Gentiles. Those who had faith in the Abrahamic Covenant saw Jesus as Messiah/Christ/King in the Four Gospels, Him coming to set up their kingdom. These believers were the converts of John the Baptist in John chapter 1. Jesus said that, one day, they (Israel’s believing remnant) would see Him glorified on David’s throne (cf. John 1:51). This is yet future, still awaiting fulfillment. The Abrahamic Covenant has never been fully accomplished yet. Right now, it is momentarily stalled because, in this the Dispensation of Grace, God is forming the Church the Body without any covenants.

John chapter 1 actually contains various glimpses of the future. We see how believing Jews will reach other Jews with the message of Jesus being Christ/Messiah (see verses 40-46). Then, Israel undergoes a national conversion, and verse 51 is fulfilled. Notice how Jesus talked about “greater things” and “hereafter” in verse 51. “…[T]hou shalt see greater things than these [previous events]. And he [Jesus] saith unto him [Nathanael], Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” Verse 51 is a future verse, even from our day. It has not been fulfilled yet so do not attempt to place it historically in Matthew through John. John 1:51, while not fulfilled at Christ’s First Coming, will come to pass at His Second Coming and subsequent 1,000-year earthly kingdom.

Also see:
» Are we “doom and gloom” Bible-prophecy believers?
» Is Israel “cast away,” or not? Has Israel “fallen,” or not?
» Does “All Israel shall be saved” mean every Jew will be saved?

ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, THE NATION ISRAEL, What does “All Israel shall be saved” mean?, What does “All Israel shall be saved” mean?

What does “All Israel shall be saved” mean?

DOES ROMANS 11:26, “ALL ISRAEL SHALL BE SAVED,” MEAN EVERY JEW WILL GO TO HEAVEN?

by Shawn Brasseaux

The Bible says in Romans 11:26-27: “[26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: [27] For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.” Does this mean that every single Jew who has ever lived will come to faith in Christ? Does this mean that every last Jew will go to heaven? Let us look in the Bible for answers!

Romans 11:26 predicts: “And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:” This word “all” is indicative of the nation rather than individual Jewish salvation. It is a corporate issue.

To read about individual Jewish salvation, we refer to Romans 10:1: “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.” Paul wanted individual Jews to be saved during the Acts period (see verse 9). Those Jews, like him, had rebelled against Jesus Christ (Matthew through John) and the Holy Spirit (early Acts). They were part of an apostate nation, and they needed to be saved from the error that had gripped national Israel. Individual Jews could be saved (Romans 11:14; 1 Corinthians 9:22) but the nation of Israel could not be saved at that point. National Israel was set aside and still is set aside. Paul was the primary example of a Jewish individual being saved unto eternal life without national Israel being saved unto eternal life (see 1 Corinthians 15:8).

Individual Jews can believe Paul’s Gospel today and join the Church the Body of Christ. They can trust Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as sufficient payment for their sins, and join the Body of Christ just as any non-Jewish (Gentile) person can. However, this is not what “all Israel shall be saved” means in Romans 11:26. God will restore national Israel one day. He will lift her spiritual blindness and have a relationship with her again. He will establish the New Covenant, not with individual Jews, but the whole nation Israel.

Romans 11:11-12,15,25-27: “[11] I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. [12] Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness? … [15] For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? … [25] For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. [26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: [27] For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.” The whole nation Israel will return to her special status before God. This will be accomplished via the New Covenant. The blood of Jesus Christ will cleanse Israel of her sins. Paul is quoting from Isaiah 59:20-21.

Individual Jews can be saved today, but not on the basis of the New Covenant. The New Covenant applies to Israel as a whole, as a nation, and national Israel does not exist today in God’s program. Notice the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:31-34: “[31] Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: [32] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: [33] But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. [34] And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.”

You can also see Hebrews 8:8-13, Hebrews 10:15-17, Ezekiel 26:25-28, Acts 3:19, and Romans 11:25-29 for more information.

Jews outside of our Dispensation of Grace, those outside of the Body of Christ, those in Israel’s program rather than our program, if they do not have the spiritual circumcision that their outward physical circumcision is to represent, they cannot be the Israel of God. God does not consider these unbelieving Jews “Israel.” He only sees the believing Jews as Israel, for Israel is to be His vessel to reach the Gentiles. Unbelieving Jews cannot be His vessel. So, this how “all Israel shall be saved” means all believing Jews and yet does not include the unbelieving Jews.

Also see:
» Who is “the Israel of God” of Galatians 6:16?
» Are we under the New Covenant today? (COMING SOON!)
» Have we been “grafted into Israel?”

ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, What does “Lord of Sabaoth” mean?

What does “Lord of Sabaoth” mean?

WHAT DOES “LORD OF SABAOTH” MEAN?

by Shawn Brasseaux

The expression “the Lord of Sabaoth” appears twice in our King James Bible—Romans 9:29 and James 5:4. What does it mean? Why do we not search God’s Word and let it tell us?

First and foremost, please be careful to note this is not to be confused with the Sabbath day! This has nothing to do with the title “the Lord of the Sabbath” as in Matthew 12:8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5, and Luke 13:15. We are talking here about “the Lord of Sabaoth.” As we will see, that word “Sabaoth” is a term of profound significance in the end-times.

We read in Romans 9:29: “And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.” Interestingly enough, if we search the Scriptures to find what “Esaias” (the Greek form of “Isaiah”) wrote, we will learn the meaning of “the Lord of Sabaoth.” Isaiah 1:9 says: “Except the LORD of hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.”

The Holy Spirit through Paul took the Hebrew Old Testament book of Isaiah and translated it into Greek in the New Testament book of Romans. We find the meaning of “the Lord of sabaoth” by simply reading what Isaiah wrote: “the LORD of hosts.” Actually, sabaoth is the English transliteration of the Greek word (sabaoth) that is derived from the Hebrew word tsaba, the word the Prophet Isaiah used in his book and which the King James translators rendered “hosts.”

The term Sabaoth is Hebrew for “hosts,” specifically the “host of heaven.” The title “JEHOVAH Sabaoth” or “LORD Sabaoth” occurs about 300 times in the “Old Testament” Scriptures as “the LORD of hosts.” Strong’s Greek Dictionary defines Sabaoth (transliterated from Hebrew) as: “Pronounced sab-ah-owth.’ of Hebrew origin (H6635 in feminine plural); armies; sabaoth (i.e. tsebaoth), a military epithet of God:—sabaoth.

“JEHOVAH Sabaoth” (“The LORD of hosts”) is talking about JEHOVAH God with respect to judgment. He is the leader of the angelic armies (“hosts of heaven”). The book of Hebrews (2:10) calls Jesus Christ “the captain of [Israel’s] salvation”—a military term, a commander.

Just when judgment was going to fall on unbelieving Israel in early Acts, God interrupted prophecy and started our mystery program. When God ends our mystery program, He will resume the prophetic program where it stopped when mystery started. There will be the time of Jacob’s trouble, Daniel’s 70th week, the seven-year Tribulation, concluding with Jesus Christ’s Second Coming with fiery judgment. The armies of heaven follow Him (Revelation 19:14; cf. Matthew 16:27, Matthew 25:31, Mark 8:38, Luke 9:26, and 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).

Romans chapter 9 is spoken of in context of this. A remnant (“seed”) of Israel will survive that judgment of Daniel’s 70th week and the Second Coming; otherwise, Israel will be completely wiped out like Sodom and Gomorrah. There must be surviving (living) Jews who can enter God’s earthly kingdom Jesus Christ is coming to establish.

Let us read verses 25-29 of Romans chapter 9: “[25] As he saith also in Osee [Hosea], I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. [26] And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. [27] Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: [28] For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. [29] And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.”

James chapter 5 uses the term “the Lord of Sabaoth” to warn the wicked who are oppressing the believing (poor): “[1] Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. [2] Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. [3] Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. [4] Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. [5] Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. [6] Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you. [7] Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. [8] Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. [9] Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.”

CONCLUSION

The title “the LORD of Sabaoth” means “the LORD of hosts.” It is a title of JEHOVAH God’s military might, His strength to fight and win battles. The LORD is commander of the angelic soldiers as well as the armies of Israel (“the LORD of hosts” is defined in 1 Samuel 17:45 as “the God of the armies of Israel”). Romans 9:25-29 and James 5:1-9 anticipate the day when Jesus will return to Earth in wrath, His Second Coming, to defeat and destroy the wicked, all unbelieving Jews and Gentiles.

Also see:
» Why do the wicked prosper?
» Who will accompany Jesus at His Second Coming?
» What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean?

ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, SABBATH DAY, What is “the Lord’s day” of Revelation 1:10?, What is “the Lord’s day” of Revelation 1:10?

What is “the Lord’s day” of Revelation 1:10?

WHAT IS “THE LORD’S DAY” OF REVELATION 1:10?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet” (Revelation 1:10). What is the “Lord’s Day” here? Look in the Bible, my friend! Do not blindly accept the idle speculations of men!

A theologian wrote the following about Revelation 1:10: “Lord’s day. This phrase appears in many early Christian writings and refers to Sunday, the day of the Lord’s resurrection. Some have suggested this phrase refers to ‘the Day of the Lord,’ but the context doesn’t support that interpretation, and the grammatical form of the word ‘Lord’ is adjectival, thus ‘the Lord’s day.’”

His words are the complete opposite of reality. Note how he, like so many “scholars,” use “Christian writings” to develop their theology rather than using the Bible to develop their theology. Christian writings have no spiritual authority; they are not inspired of God. The Bible is inspired of God. We do not use the writings of men to define Bible terms! This theologian’s suggestions are utterly ridiculous! Just what difference would it make if John were writing the Revelation on a Sunday?! What does Sunday have to do with Bible prophecy? Absolutely nothing, friend! It is just vain speculations of men who are more interested in promoting their theology than teaching God’s Word. The context supports the interpretation “the Day of the Lord” and does not support “Sunday.” Let me show you.

FIRST, A CORRECTION TO SOME RELATED CONFUSION

Before we begin, we need to clear up the confusion that denominationalism has created. According to religious tradition, Sunday is “the Lord’s day” and “the Christian Sabbath.” This is due to a misinterpretation of Revelation 1:10, which is actually referring to “the Day of the Lord,” the seven-year Tribulation. “The Day of the Lord” (“the Lord’s day”) is neither Saturday nor Sunday. There is no such thing as “Lord’s Day observance” in the Bible—that is a religious teaching, not a Bible teaching.

According to the Bible, Saturday has been and always will be the Sabbath Day. Jesus Christ resurrected on Sunday, the first day of the week (Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:1; Luke 24:1; John 20:1). This would make the last day of the week, Saturday, the Sabbath Day. Please understand that the Sabbath was never Sunday in the Bible and will never be Sunday in the Bible! Using dispensational Bible study—“rightly dividing the word of truth” as 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV instructs—we can determine whether or not we are bound to observe the Sabbath Day (which is Saturday, not Sunday, remember). More specifically, we will learn how the “Lord’s Day” of Revelation 1:10, the first day of the week of Acts 20:7 and 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, and the Jewish Sabbath are three separate days in the Bible. There is far too much mixing the three and making them all refer to one day.

REVELATION 1:10—RECEIVED ON SUNDAY?!

“I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet.” Why would the Apostle John (or the Holy Ghost) think it necessary to be sure we know that John received his revelation on Sunday? That is downright absurd! No one in the Bible ever noted what day of the week they wrote. They mentioned the month, or the year, or the date of the month, but they never mentioned “Monday,” “Tuesday,” et cetera. That causes us to conclude the term “Lord’s Day” in Revelation 1:10 has nothing to do with Sunday. As we already saw, a theologian admitted he defined the term as such because “Christian writings” defined it as such. He had no Scriptural support for his belief. Friends, rather than repeating what others speculate about the verse, why not look the context and let the context define the term?

What is the Apostle John writing about in the book of the Revelation? The seven-year Tribulation period and subsequent kingdom. It is the time when God’s wrath is poured out on sinful man and Jesus Christ is exalted above all. What does the Old Testament Scriptures say about this?

The King James Bible uses the term “the day of the LORD” 29 times. The first instance is Isaiah 2:11-12: “[11] The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. [12] For the day of the LORD of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low:” And, verse 17: “…and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.” According to these verses, during this period of the “day of the LORD” (not a literal 24-hour period), God will judge arrogant, unbelieving mankind. If you study the “Day of the LORD” in other verses, you will see that the term actually refers to a period of God’s vengeance (Isaiah 61:2; Joel 1:15; et al.). Does God pour out His wrath every Sunday? Ridiculous.

The “Lord’s Day” in Revelation 1:10 is another way of saying the “Day of the LORD.” What is the Apostle John writing about in the book of the Revelation? The seven-year Tribulation period and subsequent kingdom. He was supernaturally transported into the future, not to Sunday, but to the Day of the Lord! The “Day of the LORD” is not Sunday but actually a long period of time: the future seven-year Tribulation and the following 1000-year reign of Christ in a literal, physical, visible earthly kingdom, when Christ is exalted as King of kings and Lord of lords.

Wow, without the religious gobbledygook, it is so clear!

CONCLUSION

Sunday has nothing to do with the book of the Revelation. On what authority do people say Revelation 1:10 is a reference to Sunday? They have no Scriptural support. Rather they are repeating what others have speculated about the verse! Actually, it is nothing but Roman Catholic tradition. Many thanks to Rome (and Satan) for all this confusion!

Absolutely, the Sabbath is Saturday. It always was Saturday, and always will be Saturday. We have no Sabbath day to observe, Colossians 2:16 says, in this the Dispensation of Grace. When the saints in the Body of Christ gathered in Acts 20:7 and 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 that was not to observe the “Lord’s day.” These verses never call it such. To say otherwise is to faultily assume that Sunday replaced the Jewish Saturday Sabbath. Furthermore, Sunday (the supposed “Lord’s day”) replacing the Saturday Sabbath is nothing but church tradition. Making the Saturday Sabbath into Sunday and making the Lord’s Day of Revelation into Sunday has no Scriptural support whatsoever, friend. Just toss it all away and keep the Bible verses!

Also see:
» Why did Jesus heal on the Sabbath day?
» Should we observe the Lord’s Supper?
» Is immersion the “proper” mode of water baptism?

BIBLE CONTRADICTIONS / CONFUSING VERSES SIMPLIFIED, Do Isaiah 2:4 and Joel 3:10 contradict each other?, Do Isaiah 2:4 and Joel 3:10 contradict each other?, ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY

Do Isaiah 2:4 and Joel 3:10 contradict each other?

DO ISAIAH 2:4 AND JOEL 3:10 CONTRADICT EACH OTHER?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4).

Isaiah 2:4 is often quoted by Christians and non-Christians to advocate world peace, but they obviously overlook Joel 3:10: “Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I am strong.” Then, to make matters worse, we find Isaiah 2:4 quoted in Micah 4:3: “And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.”

It is Scriptural to “beat … swords into plowshares, and … spears into pruninghooks” (Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3). It is also Scriptural to “Beat … plowshares into swords, and … pruninghooks into spears” (Joel 3:10). Why does God’s Word teach two completely different ideas here? Dispensational Bible study is just as important to Israel as it is to us in the Dispensation of Grace! “Rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15) is necessary—to not separate (divide) these passages is to confuse them. Again, Israel must also use the Bible dispensationally.

The key to understanding these “Bible contradictions” is to realize that “beating plowshares into swords and pruninghooks into spears” belongs in one dispensation, and “beating swords into plowshares and spears into pruninghooks” belongs in another dispensation. In Israel’s program, there is a time when war and weapons are necessary, and there is a time when war has ended, peace reigns, and agricultural production increases dramatically. Before there is world peace, there must first be world war!

When we study the contexts of these passages, we learn that Joel 3:10 applies to the wars of the seven-year Tribulation period (especially the Battle of Armageddon), and Isaiah 2:4 and Micah 4:3 describe the subsequent Millennial Reign of Jesus Christ, when Satan is removed from Earth, and world peace from God will be in effect. What clarity! We must “Study… rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). If we do not rightly divide the distinctive passages, we will burden ourselves with inescapable confusion. Just separate what God has separated, dear friends, and all will be clear!

NOTE: Enjoy our Bible Q&A articles? Please feel free to donate securely here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux. Thanks so much to those who have given thus far!

Also see:
» Is Galatians 1:6-7 contradictory?
» Are Matthew 17:1, Mark 9:2, and Luke 9:28 contradictory?
» Are 2 Thessalonians 1:9 and Revelation 14:10 contradictory?

CREATION AND EARLY MAN, ESCHATOLOGY (END TIMES) / PROPHECY, What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean?, What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean?

What does 2 Peter 3:8 mean?

WHAT DOES 2 PETER 3:8 MEAN?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day” (2 Peter 3:8). Exactly what does this mean? Opinions aside, to the Holy Word of God!

There are two common views about 2 Peter 3:8. Firstly, some have tried to use it to interpret the book of Genesis. Secondly, some have tried to predict the time of Jesus’ return to Earth in wrath. We will discuss these two issues, looking at some verses, and then we will conclude by discussing what 2 Peter 3:8 really means.

2 PETER 3:8 IS NOT A REFERENCE TO CREATION

When people want to partly harmonize the 13.7-billion-year timeline of Big-Bang/Evolutionary Theory with the Book of Genesis, they often pair those creation verses with 2 Peter 3:8… At least the first part anyway!

It is said that since Peter wrote “one day is with the Lord as a thousand years,” then each “day” of Genesis chapter 1 is assumed to be a 1,000-year period rather than a 24-hour period. So, it is then suggested that it took God 6,000 years to create our universe, roughly 6,000 years ago. While this explanation does not fully agree with secular dates (actually way off), it at least generally agrees with an “older earth” (earth being 12,000 years old). Such a belief at least divorces Bible-critics from that strict literal Bible interpretation that keeps them believing what they want.

Firstly, we need to understand that 2 Peter 3:8 contains similes: “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day.” The Bible did not say, “One day with the Lord equals a thousand years, and a thousand years equals one day.” Peter is proving his point by making comparisons: “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” Furthermore, now you can see why people only quote the first part of this verse. The second part says, “And a thousand years as one day.” To make those “days” each a 1,000 years long is to make each 1,000 year-period the length of a day. This demonstrates there is no solid Bible understanding with this methodology 2 Peter 3:8. The “Day-Agers” hold a self-defeating position. Notice: If 1 day = 1000 years, then the converse is also true (1000 years = 1 day):

1st day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation
2nd day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation
3rd day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation
4th day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation
5th day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation
6th day of creation = 1000 years = 1 day of creation

Again, the left and the right equal each other. Making days equal millennia is to make the millennia into days once again. This is nonsense. It shows us that this is not the way to properly handle 2 Peter 3:8. We will look analyze 2 Peter 3:8 later. For now, just notice what the rest of the Bible says about the “days” of the Creation Week.

Exodus 20:8-11 proves conclusively that the length of the “days” of Genesis chapter 1 were 24-hour periods and not indefinite periods of time: “[8] Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. [9] Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: [10] But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: [11] For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.”

In the fourth of the Ten Commandments, Israel was instructed to work six days and rest on the Sabbath, just as the LORD worked six days and rested on the Sabbath (Genesis 2:1-3). What Jew worked 6,000 years? Who worked 6,000,000 years? What about 6,000,000,000 years? Ridiculous! Genesis 1 defines “day” six times: “And the evening and the morning were the … day” (verses 5,8,13,19,23,31). One evening and one morning equal what? Only a 24-hour period!

Some argue against this by saying since the sun was not made until Genesis 1:14-16, the verses previous could not refer to a 24-hour period. We refute that contention with the fact that God could know the exact length of a 24-hour period without the sun being there to serve as a way to measure the time. The Bible is quite clear that God created the heaven and the earth, and all the life forms therein in 144 hours, or six consecutive 24-hour periods. If someone persists in arguing at this point, they are fools. Let them go quarrel with the clear evidence found in God’s Word.

2 PETER 3:8 IS NOT A PROPHETIC TIMELINE

Another abuse of 2 Peter 3:8 is to repeat the error of some “prophecy preachers.” They have used the verse as some sort of calendar to predict Jesus’ return.

Several years ago, Harold Camping asserted that God’s judgment would occur exactly 7000 years after the Great Flood of Noah’s day. He argued if God gave a seven-day warning before the flood of Noah came (see Genesis 7:4), then God was somehow hinting that judgment would occur exactly 7,000 years after the Great Flood. According to Camping, Peter’s words of “one day is with the Lord as a thousand years” (2 Peter 3:8) refers to God judging the world exactly 7,000 years from the time of the Great Flood of Noah’s day. As it turns out, that date was (allegedly) May 21, 2011. Of course, there was no divine judgment in 2011. There was no Second Coming of Jesus. There was no Rapture. Harold Camping’s claims were nothing but a fraud, a hoax, a publicity stunt to generate donations. It was certainly not of the God of the Bible. Because of such foolishness, Christianity (again) became the laughingstock of the world.

WHAT DOES 2 PETER 3:8 MEAN, THEN?

Friend, in case you have not noticed, our world is always searching for peace. It is said if we could eliminate anything and everything “religious” and “spiritual,” our world would be peaceful. Others say we should meet and converse with heads-of-state, and make many peace treaties to ensure international tranquility. Africa and the Middle East are ravaged by war and destruction, ever so desperate for peace from centuries- or millennia-long conflicts. The suffering these poor people are facing make even some Christians wonder how can God just keeps letting it continue. We can rest assured that God is not “sitting around in heaven in a recliner,” taking pleasure in what mankind has done to His once-perfect world.

In His own time, He will consummate it all: we cannot rush Him because He knows best. First Timothy chapter 6: “[14] That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: [15] Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; [16] Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.”

Beloved, we will never even partially fathom the depths of God’s longsuffering. Even in the Apostle Peter’s day, nearly 20 centuries ago, the scoffers (unbelievers) kept asking how long before Jesus Christ would return and wipe them out. We read in 2 Peter 3:8-9: “[8] But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. [9] The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” Once God gets angry, whether one day later or 1000 years later, His wrath is still undiminished, until it is poured out in just as much fury as if He had never waited. But, today, God is withholding that wrath. When He unleashes that wrath, it will be undiluted, undiminished. While we get angry and eventually get over it, God’s anger never dissipates until His wrath enforces His righteousness. Oh, may we not take this Dispensation of Grace for granted!

In verses 15 and 16, Peter reminded his audience that the Apostle Paul had the answers to Christ’s delay—He was waiting for more people to be saved into the Church the Body of Christ: “And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;…” May we never take God’s peace in and through Christ for granted, for one day, He will withdraw it from this world, and replace it with His wrath!

CONCLUSION

It has been 2,000 years since God’s Word has been promising Jesus Christ’s return in wrath, and it is easy for people to conclude, “It has been so long that it probably will not come anyway. Maybe God was just bluffing from the very beginning.” (This was the claim of the scoffers in 2 Peter 1:16 and 2 Peter 3:3-5.) Just like in the natural world, if someone waits years before retaliating or getting even as promised, there is less apprehension. The more time that passes, the more likely we are inclined to believe nothing will happen. “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11). Certainly, God is not so fickle as we and our emotions. Once He says it, you can bet everything you have that it will come to pass. It may take Him a few days or thousands of years, but He will bring it to pass in His own time. He has a schedule and we cannot rush Him. The Lord is not “slack,” unreliable, untrustworthy. He just works on a different time-frame than we do. It works to the sinner’s advantage that God in His grace delays the wrath prophecy says is still on its way as I write and as you read!

Also see:
» Why do the wicked prosper?
» How can a loving God send people to hell forever?
» Was the Apostle Paul a false prophet?