Reading the Word (Part 4). Multiple layers and applications.
I have in the past had disagreements with people that insist there is only one meaning of a given scripture. This is no doubt true to one extent; that is not reading spurious meanings into a text based on proper contextualization. When there are so many different types of writings in a given book such as Psalms (impreccatory; prophetic; Thanksgiving at a bunch of others) even from Psalms we can't nail down any one type as a "stand alone." The clearest example would be what some call "Royal" Psalms or something similar about David and the prophetic implications that are both for him and the future Christ. This shows that even David didn't know what he was saying as far as all these meanings. I have argued with some of the Reformed camp that such a statement on my part is wrong and that somehow he had to understand it under Divine guidance; but clearly if that were true we wouldn't see someone like Daniel fasting and praying for 3 weeks to understand his dreams and visions ( Daniel 10:2).
Reading the Bible of course in these circles is focused on worshipping the one true God. There are clearly other benefits to reading the Word such as insights into the hydrological cycle ( Job 36:27); that of the animal kingdom ( Psalm 104:21; etal); historical genealogies (from the first parents in Genesis to those in the beginning of Matthew and Luke). The history of scripture can also be used to verify archaelogical discoveries; and have practical points about wisdom along with the spiritual (which can't really be parceled out). This may be most clearly demonstrated with the admonition to be as "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." ( Matthew 10:16).
We should also keep in mind that the Old Testament and New Testament have different methods of approaching God; but the Lord never changes. The Lord created law as well as grace; which allows us to actually love God as David's admonition in Psalm 119.
Much can be said about today's music and entertainment industry as to how they mock God. In all of this we can tend to ignore the passage in Jude 1:9 where slander against Satan himself by Michael the Archangel was not proclaimed; there was an appeal to the Lord to rebuke him. If that is the case for an Archangel surely it should be the case for us. Yet many wish to mock Satan as well to their own detriment.
This statement is by no means; of course to suggest that we should worship the Devil. We simply cannot fight against an enemy who is vastly superior to us any other way; and the verse Luke 14:31 demonstrates this principle fighting against an army of superior manpower. This is why deliverance ministers that implore a demon to "go to hell" are clearly unscriptural (or else if true by now there wouldn't be any left to possess and oppress men). Satan is not ruling in hell; or in hell currently as that is the place where he will suffer eternally himself. God has; however given him a sort of usurper role at present where he is given an army of principalities and powers to rule over regions of the earth as many verses in Daniel indicate. Demons are also under his rule; likely disembodied spirits from the offspring of Nephilim it would seem. Jesus and the prophets never went after these principalities ruling over nations; but cast out devils living inside individuals. Again Daniel shows how in Daniel 10:13 Micheal fought against a principality for 21 days before his prayers could be answered. We don't often think of that being an issue with prayers being answered but should consider such things.
From the outset let me say that no amount of dissertation can help answer all of the questions we as mere mortals can ask regarding the state of suffering we must endure in a fallen world or fully comprehend the reasons God allowed it in His sovereignty and Master plan. The sufferings of Christ are the prime example.
Is Jesus Michael the archangel? I have heard this from the Jehovah's Witnesses. Some say the angel of the LORD were manifestations of Jesus before His incarnation, but Jesus is not an angel.
Michael is the only angel specifically called an archangel, Jude 1:9. Michael is the chief prince who stands up for Israel, Daniel 10:13,21 Daniel 12:1. We see that Michael and his angels battle the dragon/Satan and his angels and cast them down to earth out of heaven with no place found for them anymore in heaven for them, Revelation 12:7-8.
We see in 1 Thessalonians 4:15 that when Jesus returns it will be announced by a shout, by the voice of the archangel, I understand that as Michael.
Jesus is the Son of God, our Lord who gave his life and shed His blood for us. Jesus's name is above all, Ephesians 1:21 including Michael. At the burning bush, it was the angel of the LORD, it does not say what angel it was.
Heb. 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
My understanding Jesus is not any kind of angel, Michael was probably the angel of the LORD we see in the OT because Michael is the chief prince of Israel and Michael will announce Jesus's second coming.
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
Given the paucity of descriptions of what we shall do other than eternally praise; worship and serve Christ we are left to our imaginations in one sense. We also can have the general anticipation of doing all the things (except marriage and procreation) that we do in our earthly bodies now; but without sin and fulfilling an exponentially greater purpose. Many have surmised how we will continually gain in our knowledge; forever work on construction projects (perhaps in all parts of a new universe) and other such things.
Backing up a bit; until that time it seems to me a spurious concept that in heaven time doesn't currently exist. If heaven is a world or planet perhaps things are measured differently (as to the Lord a day is as a thousand years); but nonetheless with all the visions from heaven in the scriptures in Revelation there are specific time frames that mirror the book of Daniel. Truly God is beyond time; and perhaps in new bodies and without sin WE will conceive things differently. God however had His consecrated feasts at specific time intervals; primarily to reflect Christ in the future Passover as sacrifice; in Pentecost for the beginning of the church; etc. Angels such as the one in the story of Daniel 10:13 understood literal days; and the 360 day year was used in the time measurements to show the events to come such as the day Christ was to be crucified 483 years after the decree to build the Temple ( Daniel 9:25).
The dimensions of heaven are clear; but there is no proof it has to be a cube. It could be equidistant on its sides in any shape; really; perhaps shaped as the ancient Temple; or more rectangular with the 12 gates on each side. Just landing that City on earth would destroy things with the gravity of the moon and change the whole appearance of the earth.
As with any other scripture; literal viewpoints should supercede figurative ones unless evidence is clear that it is symbolic.
My last conversation got stuck on another thread. Here is a summary of what is often spurious evidences in hell testimonies.
1. Satan being in hell. Revelation 20 and 21 should make it clear (the latter case even with Post Millennialists) that Satan is not in hell now; clearly he will be tormented before anyone else and as well as anyone else. Certain entities currently under the earth are in their own realm in Tartarus. Therefore; although it is possible that certain creatures are under the earth presently; it is hard to differentiate at times (unless clinical death is proven) that something isn't a demonic attack of torment.
2. Lack of proper reverential fear of the Lord. There are a few testimonies like this in regard to heaven and hell testimonies; but too many that only have a mushy love for Christ; or just desperate clinging to Him. No genuine experience in God's presence can come without being on our faces; see Daniel; Isaiah and John for 3 scriptural examples of the same thing. See Deuteronomy as well when Moses "shook exceedingly" ( Heb. 12:21). See David's example when the destroying angel appeared in 1 Chron. 21:15. If an Archangel can bring such a reaction (see Daniel 10:5 and following); surely the Lord Himself even more so.
3. Lack of testimony regarding the sin nature and our need to be saved from that. There also tends to be a doctrine of "losing your salvation" if we have besetting sins; as well as teachings that we must go through much of the Tribulation. More seem to be heading towards that mindset probably because Christ didn't return when they thought He would.
4. Idea that true repentance would occur in hell but it would be too late. Or love for God and His Name. I stated in my last posting that in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man no one would be convinced if someone came back from the dead.
( Isaiah 38:18).
5. God is grieving for lost souls in hell. ( Isaiah 66:24).
Daniel 10:13 seems to suggest there's an hierarchy of Angels.
He we have Prince and we have a CHIEF Prince.
'But the PRINCE of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the (CHIEF PRINCES,) came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia."
There seems to be an hierarchy in that text alone.
They could be basing their claim on any one of the following pieces of scripture:
John 1:1, John 1:14, John 8:24, John 8:58, John 10:30-33, John 20:28, Hebrews 1:8, Colossians 2:9, Philippians 2:5-8, Psalm 45:6.
The Bible tells us that we are to worship God alone, and yet Jesus received worship and never rebuked anyone who worshipped Him. We see evidence of this in Matthew 2:2, Matthew 2:11, Matthew 14:33, Matthew 28:9, John 9:35-38, Hebrews 1:6.
Isaiah 44:6 reads, "Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: "I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides me."
In Rev 1:17, it says "And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as a dead man." In Daniel 10:8-9, Daniel did the same thing. When he saw this vision of Christ, he fell down as he was dead. In Ezekiel 1:28, Ezekiel sees the vision and he falls down as a dead man. It goes on to say "Fear not; I am the first and the last: (the designation of God, found in Isaiah 41:4, and Isaiah 48:12).
In Revelation 1:18, it says I am He that lives, and this is another designation of God found in Psalm 84:2, and Joshua 3:10.
I am He that lives. God presents Himself to the Jews as the living God. He says I am He that lives, and was dead; literally, and became dead, and behold, I am living forevermore, His resurrection, His eternalness.
And then it reads, Amen; and I have the keys of hell and of death. Keys are a symbol of authority. Those who were in charge of the temple had the keys to the temple. We are told later on that the Lord (Jesus) will be in control of hell and death.
In Matthew 16:15, Jesus asks His disciples who do you say I am? Peter had the perfect answer. Peter said "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Peter was Jewish. The phrase "Son of the living God" from a Hebrew standpoint is a phrase used for God. To a Jew, claiming to be the Son of God was considered blasphemy, but that was Peter's response to who Jesus was
Revelation 10:1-4 is the instruction concerning the prophecy of the thunders. And we have the description of the angel in Verses 1 through 3. Daniel 10:21 and Ezekiel 1:28 can be referenced.
Many of these characteristics and descriptions are descriptions of Christ from Chapter 1.
Many have thought, especially Jehovah's Witnesses, because it says a mighty angel, that Jesus is not God, and that He's just an angel.
But there's some differences here taken with this small scroll. What is this small scroll? It is the property deed to the earth.
In the first line it says, and I saw another mighty angel. The word another, and there's two different words in the Greek text for another, another of the same kind, or another of a different kind.
This is another of the same kind, making reference to Revelation 8:3, another mighty angel.
There are only two angels in the bible that are called mighty angels. Back in the book of Daniel Chapters 7 through 12, we have Gabriel, and we have Michael.
Michael is the archangel. He's the head angel and he usually has to do with the business of the nation Israel. And he's constantly at war with Satan concerning the things of Israel.
And Gabriel is a messenger. We especially see him at the announcement of the birth of Christ.
So this has to be one or the other, either Michael, or Gabriel, that has come down from heaven, clothed in a cloud and a rainbow about his head. And all of this tells us that he comes in the authority of Christ. He had a rainbow upon his head, his face as the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire, and he had this small book.
As for the thunders, I believe it is making reference to Gods voice coming down from heaven. Revelation 4:5 and Psalm 18:13 causes me to believe that these thunders are the voice of God.
The Bible says that nobody has ever seen God neither they can because they will die. And with the word "God" all three persons are implied. So nobody has ever seen the Father, the Son(His divine appearance), and the Holly Spirit. The Son was born as a man and lived among people. So people have seen the fleshy(human) part of Son, man Jesus Christ. After Jesus was resurrected His fleshy body was transformed, it became immortal (His disciples saw that body but it can take any form since sometimes His disciples didn't recognise Him) and glorified. Now there are two interpretations (that I know) about the person that appears to John in Rev.
1. That person was Jesus in His glorified body.
2. That person is an angel who speaks in Jesus' sake. People who believe it this way use verse Rev 1:1, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; AND HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT BY HIS ANGEL unto his servant John:" So according to that theory that person was an angel. This seems logical because that person's appearance resembles much to the appearance of an angel described in Daniel 10:1-6.
Praying for you. I have learned to be patient where people and change are involved. I've also learned that the Lord is faithful. I am encouraged today. That God is answering those really tough prayers, even when I can't see it. There's a work taking place inside of them, and that can be instantaneous and dramatic (like Saul on the road to Damascus) or it can be a daily work that changes them over time.
Also, our prayers can be hindered (only hindered) by the enemy's camp.
Chris gave a good answer, I'd like to add to the discussion. Please note the verse right before, Jeremiah 29:11, Jeremiah 29:10, sometimes we want GOD to change our situations "right now", sometimes HE does, but I believe this promise, is for GOD's people when we need the encouragement for the troubled times & endurance in longer seasons. Notice in Daniel, he & his companions had went through many difficult moments but GOD in miraculous ways delivered them, protected them & even encouraged them. I believe it was after Daniel was thrown in the lions den that he fasted & humbly prayed about the promise made in Jeremiah 29:10,11, Daniel 9:1,2,3, still waiting on that promise of 70 years,
note Daniel 6:1,2,3, (for why I place the timing, seemingly after lions den) the noted scriptures referring to about Daniel's encouragement, & companions, some say "the greater the trial the greater the miraculous": Daniel 1:8,9,17, Daniel 2:12,13,17,23Daniel 3:12-27, Daniel 4:19,24,25, Daniel 5, Daniel 6:7,10,16,22,28, Daniel 9:23, Daniel 10:11,12,18, Daniel 11:1,
Luke 10:19, there are moments that are painful but when we look at Salvation, the pruning, witness to strengthen the Body of Believers, then we realize it didn't "hurt us".
I hope these scriptures give you strength & hope= 1Peter 4:12,13, 2Corinthians 1:3-7, John 15:1-2, 1Corinthians 4:5, 2Corinthians 3:2, Zechariah 13:9, Malachi 3:3, 2Timothy 2:10, Psalms 30:5,
Endure even undue trials= 2Timothy 2:3, 2Timothy 4:5, remember Timothy was with Paul in ministry during persecution. 1Peter 2:19, Mark 13:13, James 5:10,11,
In 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, the natural man is compared to the spiritual man and the carnal man. Verse 14 says, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. This verse does not define the natural man, as such; rather, it uses the term to describe one who does not understand God's words and thoughts. The one who can understand God's words is a "spiritual" man (verse 15).
Dr. Henry Morris, in the New Defender's Study Bible, gives this comment on verse 14: "The 'natural' man, still unsaved, cannot appreciate spiritual truths. He must first understand Christ's atoning sacrifice for him, but even that is 'foolishness' to him (1:18) until the Holy Spirit Himself convicts him of its reality ( John 16:7-11)." Basically, the "natural" man is one who does not have the Holy Spirit residing within him. As Jesus said, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" ( John 3:6).
Let's look at some other uses in the Bible of the word natural. In Romans 11:21 we read, "For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you." In 1 Corinthians 15:44-46, "It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, then there is also a spiritual body. However the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual." Ezekiel 44:31 speaks of a natural death. Daniel 10:8 speaks of a natural color. James 1:23 speaks of a natural face, and James 3:15 states, "This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, "natural", demonic."
Michael the archangel seems to be a powerful militant angel in the behalf of Israel.
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of "THY PEOPLE" and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
Daniel 12:1.
Daniel 10:13.
Daniel 10:21.
However we know he is not Christ.
We can easily refute that here in Jude and in the book of Luke.
Here in Jude 1:8-9. you see Michael the archangel gives respect to dominion and says THE LORD REBUKE YOU.
Jude 1:9. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
Here in Luke 4:8. We see Jesus who created all things rebuke Satan.
"And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
Michael the archangel is a created being.
"The Angel of the Lord is the pre incarcerated Christ. Who created all things.
Colossians 1:16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
John 1:3. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
Revelation 1:5 is about Jesus; He is the prince of the kings of the world. The word prince used is the Greek word archon meaning; ruler, governor, leader, leading man, no authority higher. God placed Jesus above all, Philippians 2:9, and He will reign until all enemies are put under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:25.
Michael is one of the chief princes, the only one called archangel, Jude 1:9 and the prince of the people of the house of Israel, Daniel 10:13-21. At the end we see that Michael will stand up, Daniel 12:1, also in Revelation 12:7-12 Michael and other angels cast Satan out of heaven down to this earth permanently.
The appearance of Deity in the Old Testament brought humbling responses. When the Lord appeared to Moses from a burning bush, Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God ( Exodus 3:1-6). When Isaiah saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, he cried out, "Woe is me! For I am lostfor my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts" ( Isaiah 6:5). When the prophet Daniel received a vision of the glorious Christ, his strength left him. He fell into deep sleep with his face to the ground. However, an angel touched him and told him not to fear ( Daniel 10:8-12).
When the apostle John saw the glorified Christ, he fell at His feet as though dead ( Revelation 1:17). However, the Lord responded by telling Him not to fear. He identified himself as He did in verse 8 as the first and the last. Because believers are united by faith to Him, who is eternal, they too have nothing to fear.
Lots of people have seen Jesus in visions. I have. He is seated at the right Hand of God, making intercession for all believers who will come to Him.
I can tell jaw dropping testimonies of Jesus's intervention but it is by the Holy Spirits unction that I do. We are His disciples and it is Jesus who deserves the praise and thanks.
We don't wait TO FEEL like praising and worshipping and honoring Jesus. He is worthy to receive it always.
Continued : the cruel things that made the king's threats feared also include 2Kings 25:7-9, 2Chronicles 36:6
That king apparently named his son & Daniel the same referenced from Daniel 1,
Daniel 5, this next king appears to be the son of the king mentioned in Daniel 1,2,3,4, please note: Daniel 5:2,10,11,18,
Daniel 5:1-21,
Important Daniel 5:22,
Daniel 5:23,
Daniel 5:24-30,
Also prophecy fulfilled, about Babylon's defeat,
References to the treasure taken 2Kings 25:13-17, 2Chronicles 36:7,10,18, & other places in scripture
Daniel 6, Daniel lives through another king, supernaturally
Daniel 7, & 8, Daniel has a dream & visions, that are referred to as prophecy,
Both Daniel 7 & 8, take place during Daniel 5, or beforehand, while that same king was in rule.
Daniel 9, is during reign of Darius, note: Daniel 5:31, Daniel 9:1,
Daniel 9:2, the prophecy of punishment for Israel was at time of completion
Daniel 9:3-19, Daniel humbled himself
Daniel 9:20-27, divine intervention also prophecy explained
Daniel 9:24-26 Jesus CHRIST the MESSIAH,
Daniel 10,11, & 12 continue, Daniel 10, Cyrus king, another divine intervention & prophecy followed by Daniel fasting & prayer
Please notice Daniel 10:10-14, Daniel 10:18-21 continues through Daniel 11:1, he also strengthened Darius, note how it starts as a finishing thought & Darius was the king that was tricked into throwing Daniel into the lions, Daniel 6, distressed, alienated possibly then was he supernaturally confirmed & strengthened.
Daniel 11:2-45 continues prophecy from previous, into Daniel 12, all three chapters are following through.
In1 Corinthians 2:6-16, the natural man is compared to the spiritual man and the carnal man. Verse 14 says, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised" (NASB). This verse does not define the natural man, as such; rather, it uses the term to describe one who does not understand God's words and thoughts. The one who can understand God's words is a "spiritual" man (verse 15).
Dr. Henry Morris, in theNew Defender's Study Bible, gives this comment on verse 14: "The 'natural' man, still unsaved, cannot appreciate spiritual truths. He must first understand Christ's atoning sacrifice for him, but even that is 'foolishness' to him (1:18) until the Holy Spirit Himself convicts him of its reality ( John 16:7-11)." Basically, the "natural" man is one who does not have the Holy Spirit residing within him. As Jesus said, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" ( John 3:6).
Let's look at some other uses in the Bible of the wordnatural. InRomans 11:21we read, "For if God did not spare thenaturalbranches, neither will He spare you." In1 Corinthians 15:44-46, "It is sown anaturalbody, it is raised aspiritual body. If there is anaturalbody, then there is also a spiritual body. However the spiritual is not first, but thenatural; then the spiritual." Ezekiel 44:31speaks of anaturaldeath. Daniel 10:8speaks of anaturalcolor. James 1:23speaks of anaturalface, andJames 3:15states, "This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly,natural, demonic."
Since God is far above as we read in Daniel 10 after answering our prayer in the Old testament ithere was a delay of 20 days cause by the prince of the kingdom of Persia, on that same note is there hindrance in the New testament from God to us.
So both versions are referring to angels, not Jesus Christ? What I am getting at is several YouTube channels are translating these scriptures to Jesus being black. I believe they have misinterpreted to justify themselves as being black. These words are metaphors like. head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow. Nowhere it says black. If the head is white then the body is white therefore Jesus is NOT black. Question remains who is that person. You said an angel, and you could be right. The black pastors identified him as black because it says .. And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace. That's where they painted Jesus as black because of the brass color as if they are obsessed with these specific versions. Finally, who is that person John and Daniel referring to really? That's why I ask you. How do pastors on YouTube make such conclusions that it is Jesus and he is black is beyond me. I can read metaphors but everyone's entitled to their own interpretations. Wool is not a reference to sheep hair or black hair texture as the pastor claimed. If they want to take wool literally than why don't they take snow literally? Snow on top of head that just fell from the sky? They are apparently stuck with "brass".
I have in the past had disagreements with people that insist there is only one meaning of a given scripture. This is no doubt true to one extent; that is not reading spurious meanings into a text based on proper contextualization. When there are so many different types of writings in a given book such as Psalms (impreccatory; prophetic; Thanksgiving at a bunch of others) even from Psalms we can't nail down any one type as a "stand alone." The clearest example would be what some call "Royal" Psalms or something similar about David and the prophetic implications that are both for him and the future Christ. This shows that even David didn't know what he was saying as far as all these meanings. I have argued with some of the Reformed camp that such a statement on my part is wrong and that somehow he had to understand it under Divine guidance; but clearly if that were true we wouldn't see someone like Daniel fasting and praying for 3 weeks to understand his dreams and visions ( Daniel 10:2).
Reading the Bible of course in these circles is focused on worshipping the one true God. There are clearly other benefits to reading the Word such as insights into the hydrological cycle ( Job 36:27); that of the animal kingdom ( Psalm 104:21; etal); historical genealogies (from the first parents in Genesis to those in the beginning of Matthew and Luke). The history of scripture can also be used to verify archaelogical discoveries; and have practical points about wisdom along with the spiritual (which can't really be parceled out). This may be most clearly demonstrated with the admonition to be as "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." ( Matthew 10:16).
We should also keep in mind that the Old Testament and New Testament have different methods of approaching God; but the Lord never changes. The Lord created law as well as grace; which allows us to actually love God as David's admonition in Psalm 119.
Much can be said about today's music and entertainment industry as to how they mock God. In all of this we can tend to ignore the passage in Jude 1:9 where slander against Satan himself by Michael the Archangel was not proclaimed; there was an appeal to the Lord to rebuke him. If that is the case for an Archangel surely it should be the case for us. Yet many wish to mock Satan as well to their own detriment.
This statement is by no means; of course to suggest that we should worship the Devil. We simply cannot fight against an enemy who is vastly superior to us any other way; and the verse Luke 14:31 demonstrates this principle fighting against an army of superior manpower. This is why deliverance ministers that implore a demon to "go to hell" are clearly unscriptural (or else if true by now there wouldn't be any left to possess and oppress men). Satan is not ruling in hell; or in hell currently as that is the place where he will suffer eternally himself. God has; however given him a sort of usurper role at present where he is given an army of principalities and powers to rule over regions of the earth as many verses in Daniel indicate. Demons are also under his rule; likely disembodied spirits from the offspring of Nephilim it would seem. Jesus and the prophets never went after these principalities ruling over nations; but cast out devils living inside individuals. Again Daniel shows how in Daniel 10:13 Micheal fought against a principality for 21 days before his prayers could be answered. We don't often think of that being an issue with prayers being answered but should consider such things.
From the outset let me say that no amount of dissertation can help answer all of the questions we as mere mortals can ask regarding the state of suffering we must endure in a fallen world or fully comprehend the reasons God allowed it in His sovereignty and Master plan. The sufferings of Christ are the prime example.
Is Jesus Michael the archangel? I have heard this from the Jehovah's Witnesses. Some say the angel of the LORD were manifestations of Jesus before His incarnation, but Jesus is not an angel.
Michael is the only angel specifically called an archangel, Jude 1:9. Michael is the chief prince who stands up for Israel, Daniel 10:13,21 Daniel 12:1. We see that Michael and his angels battle the dragon/Satan and his angels and cast them down to earth out of heaven with no place found for them anymore in heaven for them, Revelation 12:7-8.
We see in 1 Thessalonians 4:15 that when Jesus returns it will be announced by a shout, by the voice of the archangel, I understand that as Michael.
Jesus is the Son of God, our Lord who gave his life and shed His blood for us. Jesus's name is above all, Ephesians 1:21 including Michael. At the burning bush, it was the angel of the LORD, it does not say what angel it was.
Heb. 1:5 For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
My understanding Jesus is not any kind of angel, Michael was probably the angel of the LORD we see in the OT because Michael is the chief prince of Israel and Michael will announce Jesus's second coming.
God bless,
RLW
The beauty of the cross is perhaps no better described than in Isaiah 52:14. His appearance or "visage" was so marred from the beatings and other injuries before the crucifixion that Jesus was hardly recognizable as a man. But by His stripes; we are healed ( Isaiah 53:5 just a few verses later). He has brought us beauty from ashes ( Isaiah 61:3) which in context means Israel will have restitution after suffering judgment. But God in the flesh resulted not in admiration but in a man of sorrows acquainted with grief ( Isaiah 53:3).
God's awe inspiring attributes are seen in the visions of the Lord as seen by Isaiah 6; Ezekiel 1:22 and associated verses in Revelation 15:2; etal; and Daniel 10:6; etal). The true beauty of God; of course ties in with His selflessness; agape love and other characteristics that are above storge; Philleo and eros type of human love. Satan himself was a most beautiful creation as Lucifer ( Ezekiel 28:12) UNTIL he fell. Now the beauty is vanity as it is with any fallen creature who pride has allowed to contaminate. God Himself deserves worship and is not being arrogant in stating this desire but there are no verses I am aware of that state God is PROUD of being the God of all creation; He is supreme and in that sense better than anyone else; but He calls His followers by name and "friends" ( John 15:15). This makes Him the perfect Father.
God created all things for His good pleasure including man ( Revelation 4:11). No doubt Adam and Eve in a sinless state were beautiful; and perhaps still externally appeared that way after the fall. All things were fearfully and wonderfully made ( Psalm 139:14) but man has sought out many inventions (see Ecclesiastes 7:29). 1 Chronicles 16:27 talks of the majesty of God which no doubt incorporates beauty as seen in the creation. This makes man without excuse; as Romans 1 and Psalm 19 make clear.
God's beauty is more than skin deep and indescribable as all other traits.
Thank you for your time chart.
It's pretty much like mine at first glance.
But the second part of your post I can't agree with.
You mentioned; "We cannot put the people in 70 AD and the prince in the future.
I partially agree with you there.
The people of the prince is future to Daniel but past to us.
The Prince that shall come is clearly going forward after the Messiah cut off and future of the Destruction of Jerusalem.
"And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come...."
You mentioned the usage of King Nebuchadnezzar as an example to Christ being the Prince of of Rome.
In the OT God raised up rulers and nations to chasten Israel and he called them his anointed, "They were raised to power for a certain purpose"
But he never called them his people.
Messiah the Prince associates Jesus with Israel connected by the word Messiah.
But often times in the book of Daniel prince is used consistently to identify the demonic source behind the scene influencing the concurring nations.
Daniel 10:13, and Daniel 10:20. for example.
Rome dominion never ended.
The prince that shall come represents them.
We see three world powers in Daniels images.
We see the princes behind those powers with the dreadful beast rising out of the last one. "Rome"
and he shall confirm a covenant for one week. If this is Jesus what part of the Gospels declare this 7 year covenant?
You mentioned earlier the 3.5 years before the crucifixion when Christ was baptized as the half way point of the 70th week.
How did you get 3.5 years and can you give details of the last 3.5 years?
I've shared my view earlier in my original reply to this post. .
Thanks in advance. .
God bless
Given the paucity of descriptions of what we shall do other than eternally praise; worship and serve Christ we are left to our imaginations in one sense. We also can have the general anticipation of doing all the things (except marriage and procreation) that we do in our earthly bodies now; but without sin and fulfilling an exponentially greater purpose. Many have surmised how we will continually gain in our knowledge; forever work on construction projects (perhaps in all parts of a new universe) and other such things.
Backing up a bit; until that time it seems to me a spurious concept that in heaven time doesn't currently exist. If heaven is a world or planet perhaps things are measured differently (as to the Lord a day is as a thousand years); but nonetheless with all the visions from heaven in the scriptures in Revelation there are specific time frames that mirror the book of Daniel. Truly God is beyond time; and perhaps in new bodies and without sin WE will conceive things differently. God however had His consecrated feasts at specific time intervals; primarily to reflect Christ in the future Passover as sacrifice; in Pentecost for the beginning of the church; etc. Angels such as the one in the story of Daniel 10:13 understood literal days; and the 360 day year was used in the time measurements to show the events to come such as the day Christ was to be crucified 483 years after the decree to build the Temple ( Daniel 9:25).
The dimensions of heaven are clear; but there is no proof it has to be a cube. It could be equidistant on its sides in any shape; really; perhaps shaped as the ancient Temple; or more rectangular with the 12 gates on each side. Just landing that City on earth would destroy things with the gravity of the moon and change the whole appearance of the earth.
As with any other scripture; literal viewpoints should supercede figurative ones unless evidence is clear that it is symbolic.
My last conversation got stuck on another thread. Here is a summary of what is often spurious evidences in hell testimonies.
1. Satan being in hell. Revelation 20 and 21 should make it clear (the latter case even with Post Millennialists) that Satan is not in hell now; clearly he will be tormented before anyone else and as well as anyone else. Certain entities currently under the earth are in their own realm in Tartarus. Therefore; although it is possible that certain creatures are under the earth presently; it is hard to differentiate at times (unless clinical death is proven) that something isn't a demonic attack of torment.
2. Lack of proper reverential fear of the Lord. There are a few testimonies like this in regard to heaven and hell testimonies; but too many that only have a mushy love for Christ; or just desperate clinging to Him. No genuine experience in God's presence can come without being on our faces; see Daniel; Isaiah and John for 3 scriptural examples of the same thing. See Deuteronomy as well when Moses "shook exceedingly" ( Heb. 12:21). See David's example when the destroying angel appeared in 1 Chron. 21:15. If an Archangel can bring such a reaction (see Daniel 10:5 and following); surely the Lord Himself even more so.
3. Lack of testimony regarding the sin nature and our need to be saved from that. There also tends to be a doctrine of "losing your salvation" if we have besetting sins; as well as teachings that we must go through much of the Tribulation. More seem to be heading towards that mindset probably because Christ didn't return when they thought He would.
4. Idea that true repentance would occur in hell but it would be too late. Or love for God and His Name. I stated in my last posting that in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man no one would be convinced if someone came back from the dead.
( Isaiah 38:18).
5. God is grieving for lost souls in hell. ( Isaiah 66:24).
Daniel 10:13 seems to suggest there's an hierarchy of Angels.
He we have Prince and we have a CHIEF Prince.
'But the PRINCE of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the (CHIEF PRINCES,) came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia."
There seems to be an hierarchy in that text alone.
I hope this helps
God bless.
They could be basing their claim on any one of the following pieces of scripture:
John 1:1, John 1:14, John 8:24, John 8:58, John 10:30-33, John 20:28, Hebrews 1:8, Colossians 2:9, Philippians 2:5-8, Psalm 45:6.
The Bible tells us that we are to worship God alone, and yet Jesus received worship and never rebuked anyone who worshipped Him. We see evidence of this in Matthew 2:2, Matthew 2:11, Matthew 14:33, Matthew 28:9, John 9:35-38, Hebrews 1:6.
Isaiah 44:6 reads, "Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: "I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides me."
In Rev 1:17, it says "And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as a dead man." In Daniel 10:8-9, Daniel did the same thing. When he saw this vision of Christ, he fell down as he was dead. In Ezekiel 1:28, Ezekiel sees the vision and he falls down as a dead man. It goes on to say "Fear not; I am the first and the last: (the designation of God, found in Isaiah 41:4, and Isaiah 48:12).
In Revelation 1:18, it says I am He that lives, and this is another designation of God found in Psalm 84:2, and Joshua 3:10.
I am He that lives. God presents Himself to the Jews as the living God. He says I am He that lives, and was dead; literally, and became dead, and behold, I am living forevermore, His resurrection, His eternalness.
And then it reads, Amen; and I have the keys of hell and of death. Keys are a symbol of authority. Those who were in charge of the temple had the keys to the temple. We are told later on that the Lord (Jesus) will be in control of hell and death.
In Matthew 16:15, Jesus asks His disciples who do you say I am? Peter had the perfect answer. Peter said "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Peter was Jewish. The phrase "Son of the living God" from a Hebrew standpoint is a phrase used for God. To a Jew, claiming to be the Son of God was considered blasphemy, but that was Peter's response to who Jesus was
Many of these characteristics and descriptions are descriptions of Christ from Chapter 1.
Many have thought, especially Jehovah's Witnesses, because it says a mighty angel, that Jesus is not God, and that He's just an angel.
But there's some differences here taken with this small scroll. What is this small scroll? It is the property deed to the earth.
In the first line it says, and I saw another mighty angel. The word another, and there's two different words in the Greek text for another, another of the same kind, or another of a different kind.
This is another of the same kind, making reference to Revelation 8:3, another mighty angel.
There are only two angels in the bible that are called mighty angels. Back in the book of Daniel Chapters 7 through 12, we have Gabriel, and we have Michael.
Michael is the archangel. He's the head angel and he usually has to do with the business of the nation Israel. And he's constantly at war with Satan concerning the things of Israel.
And Gabriel is a messenger. We especially see him at the announcement of the birth of Christ.
So this has to be one or the other, either Michael, or Gabriel, that has come down from heaven, clothed in a cloud and a rainbow about his head. And all of this tells us that he comes in the authority of Christ. He had a rainbow upon his head, his face as the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire, and he had this small book.
As for the thunders, I believe it is making reference to Gods voice coming down from heaven. Revelation 4:5 and Psalm 18:13 causes me to believe that these thunders are the voice of God.
Hope this helps!
The Bible says that nobody has ever seen God neither they can because they will die. And with the word "God" all three persons are implied. So nobody has ever seen the Father, the Son(His divine appearance), and the Holly Spirit. The Son was born as a man and lived among people. So people have seen the fleshy(human) part of Son, man Jesus Christ. After Jesus was resurrected His fleshy body was transformed, it became immortal (His disciples saw that body but it can take any form since sometimes His disciples didn't recognise Him) and glorified. Now there are two interpretations (that I know) about the person that appears to John in Rev.
1. That person was Jesus in His glorified body.
2. That person is an angel who speaks in Jesus' sake. People who believe it this way use verse Rev 1:1, "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; AND HE SENT AND SIGNIFIED IT BY HIS ANGEL unto his servant John:" So according to that theory that person was an angel. This seems logical because that person's appearance resembles much to the appearance of an angel described in Daniel 10:1-6.
GBU
Also, our prayers can be hindered (only hindered) by the enemy's camp.
Daniel 10:11-13
Love, in Christ.
:-)
Chris gave a good answer, I'd like to add to the discussion. Please note the verse right before, Jeremiah 29:11, Jeremiah 29:10, sometimes we want GOD to change our situations "right now", sometimes HE does, but I believe this promise, is for GOD's people when we need the encouragement for the troubled times & endurance in longer seasons. Notice in Daniel, he & his companions had went through many difficult moments but GOD in miraculous ways delivered them, protected them & even encouraged them. I believe it was after Daniel was thrown in the lions den that he fasted & humbly prayed about the promise made in Jeremiah 29:10,11, Daniel 9:1,2,3, still waiting on that promise of 70 years,
note Daniel 6:1,2,3, (for why I place the timing, seemingly after lions den) the noted scriptures referring to about Daniel's encouragement, & companions, some say "the greater the trial the greater the miraculous": Daniel 1:8,9,17, Daniel 2:12,13,17,23 Daniel 3:12-27, Daniel 4:19,24,25, Daniel 5, Daniel 6:7,10,16,22,28, Daniel 9:23, Daniel 10:11,12,18, Daniel 11:1,
Luke 10:19, there are moments that are painful but when we look at Salvation, the pruning, witness to strengthen the Body of Believers, then we realize it didn't "hurt us".
I hope these scriptures give you strength & hope= 1Peter 4:12,13, 2Corinthians 1:3-7, John 15:1-2, 1Corinthians 4:5, 2Corinthians 3:2, Zechariah 13:9, Malachi 3:3, 2Timothy 2:10, Psalms 30:5,
In correction= Isaiah 48:10,11, Malachi 3:2, Proverbs 3:11-35, Hebrews 12:7, 2Thessalonians 1:4,
Endure even undue trials= 2Timothy 2:3, 2Timothy 4:5, remember Timothy was with Paul in ministry during persecution. 1Peter 2:19, Mark 13:13, James 5:10,11,
James 5:13-18, 2Chronicles 7:14,
Hopefully these are helpful & encouraging
Exodus 34:14, Matthew 4:10, John 4:23,24,
Daniel 8:17,18, Daniel 10:9, Daniel 10:15-19,
Wrongly : 1Kings 12:30, Acts 18:13, Revelation 19:10, Revelation 22:8,9,
Hopefully these are helpful
Part 1 of 2.
In 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, the natural man is compared to the spiritual man and the carnal man. Verse 14 says, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. This verse does not define the natural man, as such; rather, it uses the term to describe one who does not understand God's words and thoughts. The one who can understand God's words is a "spiritual" man (verse 15).
Dr. Henry Morris, in the New Defender's Study Bible, gives this comment on verse 14: "The 'natural' man, still unsaved, cannot appreciate spiritual truths. He must first understand Christ's atoning sacrifice for him, but even that is 'foolishness' to him (1:18) until the Holy Spirit Himself convicts him of its reality ( John 16:7-11)." Basically, the "natural" man is one who does not have the Holy Spirit residing within him. As Jesus said, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" ( John 3:6).
Let's look at some other uses in the Bible of the word natural. In Romans 11:21 we read, "For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will He spare you." In 1 Corinthians 15:44-46, "It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, then there is also a spiritual body. However the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual." Ezekiel 44:31 speaks of a natural death. Daniel 10:8 speaks of a natural color. James 1:23 speaks of a natural face, and James 3:15 states, "This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, "natural", demonic."
See Part 2.
Michael the archangel seems to be a powerful militant angel in the behalf of Israel.
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of "THY PEOPLE" and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
Daniel 12:1.
Daniel 10:13.
Daniel 10:21.
However we know he is not Christ.
We can easily refute that here in Jude and in the book of Luke.
Here in Jude 1:8-9. you see Michael the archangel gives respect to dominion and says THE LORD REBUKE YOU.
Jude 1:9. Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.
Here in Luke 4:8. We see Jesus who created all things rebuke Satan.
"And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
Michael the archangel is a created being.
"The Angel of the Lord is the pre incarcerated Christ. Who created all things.
Colossians 1:16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
John 1:3. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
God bless.
Revelation 1:5 is about Jesus; He is the prince of the kings of the world. The word prince used is the Greek word archon meaning; ruler, governor, leader, leading man, no authority higher. God placed Jesus above all, Philippians 2:9, and He will reign until all enemies are put under His feet, 1 Corinthians 15:25.
Michael is one of the chief princes, the only one called archangel, Jude 1:9 and the prince of the people of the house of Israel, Daniel 10:13-21. At the end we see that Michael will stand up, Daniel 12:1, also in Revelation 12:7-12 Michael and other angels cast Satan out of heaven down to this earth permanently.
God bless.
RLW
When the apostle John saw the glorified Christ, he fell at His feet as though dead ( Revelation 1:17). However, the Lord responded by telling Him not to fear. He identified himself as He did in verse 8 as the first and the last. Because believers are united by faith to Him, who is eternal, they too have nothing to fear.
Lots of people have seen Jesus in visions. I have. He is seated at the right Hand of God, making intercession for all believers who will come to Him.
I can tell jaw dropping testimonies of Jesus's intervention but it is by the Holy Spirits unction that I do. We are His disciples and it is Jesus who deserves the praise and thanks.
We don't wait TO FEEL like praising and worshipping and honoring Jesus. He is worthy to receive it always.
That king apparently named his son & Daniel the same referenced from Daniel 1,
Daniel 5, this next king appears to be the son of the king mentioned in Daniel 1,2,3,4, please note: Daniel 5:2,10,11,18,
Daniel 5:1-21,
Important Daniel 5:22,
Daniel 5:23,
Daniel 5:24-30,
Also prophecy fulfilled, about Babylon's defeat,
References to the treasure taken 2Kings 25:13-17, 2Chronicles 36:7,10,18, & other places in scripture
Daniel 6, Daniel lives through another king, supernaturally
Daniel 7, & 8, Daniel has a dream & visions, that are referred to as prophecy,
Both Daniel 7 & 8, take place during Daniel 5, or beforehand, while that same king was in rule.
Daniel 9, is during reign of Darius, note: Daniel 5:31, Daniel 9:1,
Daniel 9:2, the prophecy of punishment for Israel was at time of completion
Daniel 9:3-19, Daniel humbled himself
Daniel 9:20-27, divine intervention also prophecy explained
Daniel 9:24-26 Jesus CHRIST the MESSIAH,
Daniel 10,11, & 12 continue, Daniel 10, Cyrus king, another divine intervention & prophecy followed by Daniel fasting & prayer
Please notice Daniel 10:10-14, Daniel 10:18-21 continues through Daniel 11:1, he also strengthened Darius, note how it starts as a finishing thought & Darius was the king that was tricked into throwing Daniel into the lions, Daniel 6, distressed, alienated possibly then was he supernaturally confirmed & strengthened.
Daniel 11:2-45 continues prophecy from previous, into Daniel 12, all three chapters are following through.
Hopefully this was helpful
Part 1 of 2.
In1 Corinthians 2:6-16, the natural man is compared to the spiritual man and the carnal man. Verse 14 says, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised" (NASB). This verse does not define the natural man, as such; rather, it uses the term to describe one who does not understand God's words and thoughts. The one who can understand God's words is a "spiritual" man (verse 15).
Dr. Henry Morris, in theNew Defender's Study Bible, gives this comment on verse 14: "The 'natural' man, still unsaved, cannot appreciate spiritual truths. He must first understand Christ's atoning sacrifice for him, but even that is 'foolishness' to him (1:18) until the Holy Spirit Himself convicts him of its reality ( John 16:7-11)." Basically, the "natural" man is one who does not have the Holy Spirit residing within him. As Jesus said, "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" ( John 3:6).
Let's look at some other uses in the Bible of the wordnatural. InRomans 11:21we read, "For if God did not spare thenaturalbranches, neither will He spare you." In1 Corinthians 15:44-46, "It is sown anaturalbody, it is raised aspiritual body. If there is anaturalbody, then there is also a spiritual body. However the spiritual is not first, but thenatural; then the spiritual." Ezekiel 44:31speaks of anaturaldeath. Daniel 10:8speaks of anaturalcolor. James 1:23speaks of anaturalface, andJames 3:15states, "This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly,natural, demonic."
he is also Almighty all knowing Eternal omnipresent and omnipotent which means he's not afar off. Gods word uses
figure of speech which are grammatical explanations to define God which we can better understand Him because
He is spirit. That's why example Isaiah 66:1 Heavens His throne thrown earth is his footstool so he's got long legs
and feet right nope its attributing to God human characteristics. Also God is a fountain of living water, God is not
a man that he should lie. God is my fortress, my shield and buckler. These are just some examples. So when it
comes to prayer humbly ask believing and ye shall receive, he knows what you need before you do.
who at that time ere in bondage to the King of Persia and Daniel was being given revelation or revealed
knowledge from God on present and future events. Also be aware of individuals in general that interpret the
scripture to make it fit what they believe, its called private interpretation 2 Peter 1:20+21.
Since God is far above as we read in Daniel 10 after answering our prayer in the Old testament ithere was a delay of 20 days cause by the prince of the kingdom of Persia, on that same note is there hindrance in the New testament from God to us.
Daniel 10:13, 10:21, 12:1. Gabriel is the messenger angel and Michael is the fighter for Gods people.