Discuss Matthew 27 Page 3

1Peter 2:19,21,

Good conscience, Christ suffered giving us example, trusting GOD not man.

Please refer back to why Jesus suffered = Matthew 12:14, John 7:1, Matthew 12:1-13, because he healed on the Sabbath?

John 7:7 "The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil" John 8:44, Matthew 22:29,

Jesus corrected & rebuked the leaders in the religious sects & ignored their contradictory "mandates" even washing of hands.

HE disobeyed those in Governmental authority, because they were corrupt. Matthew 27:12,13,14, John 19:11, obeying GOD ALMIGHTY.

If you're referring to Our GOD Blessed Country USA. This website is global. The USA did not get the religious freedom it has by obedience to oppressive Gov. Please read the US Declaration of Independence & refer back to another scripture, 1Peter 2:14, Our "public servants" have not punished evildoers, but have actually committed Treasonous acts, putting Citizens in danger. We have a Duty given by our GOD to uphold law, order, safety of our people & protecting our freedoms. As Established within that document. Proverbs 31:9,

If you haven't noticed the chaos in the world after the falsified Election of 2020, please look & understand we affect the World for good, when we are strong, stable & blessing & helping other nations.

Let's not forget all of the Old Testament either.

How would Jesus handle these things today? Remember John 2:15 "And when He had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money and overthrew the tables." & Luke 19,

Cali, Gov. Fobid singing in Church Fellowship, GOD says sing, Psalms 98:4, Psalms 33:3,

GOD says Exodus 23:7, Deuteronomy 19:10,13, Deuteronomy 21:9 "So shall thou put away the guilt of innocent blood from among you, when you shall do which is right in the sight of the LORD"

There was 1st a Priesthood in: Genesis 14:18,

Another priesthood established after 400+ yrs of captivity of Israel in Egypt. Established in Exodus 28:1, described & defined & detailed in; Exodus 28, Ex. 29, Ex. 30, Ex. 31, Ex. 35, Ex. 38, Ex. 39, Ex. 40, Leviticus 1, note the Name, Aaron being in the Levi lineage= Exodus 2:1, Numbers 26:59, if you want to study the laws of the Priesthood all the chapters of Leviticus, I recommend.

Numbers 3:1-45, clarified who was allowed to be in the Priesthood. Note: Numbers 3:32, Numbers 4, breaks down duties of each family, within that tribe, separated by GOD specifically, Numbers 3:12-13, Numbers 3:41, Deuteronomy also describe the duties. This continued through the book of Joshua. King David & king Solomon, re-established the Levitical Priests; 1Chronicles 6:10, then again at the return of the Babylonian captivity re-established by Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, & all Israel that returned.

Therefore by these recorded accounts it appears the priesthood that existed during the moment your referring to in Mark 15, were traditional heirs of the priesthood as established, in Exodus. Respected & upheld by Jesus himself= Matthew 8:4, Mark 1:44, Luke 5:14,

Please read Isaiah 53, Zechariah 13:6, John 18:35,

Interestingly in: Luke 1:5, Luke 2, Hebrews 5, Hebrews 6, Jesus Our High Priest.

They swayed Pilate, Matthew 27:24, Mark 15:15, Luke 23:4-23, John 19:8-15, yet GOD ordained it & Christ allowed it, John 10:17,

I find it useful to read & study many Books of the Bible to answer my questions within one part of another Book.

Hopefully these are helpful & fully answer your questions

It will be recalled that when Jesus was offered wine to relieve His agonies at the cross he refused (although he was given the sour vinegar stuff right before He died). ( Matthew 27:34 as compared with John 19:29). Hence in that case the alcohol was for antiseptic purposes; when in the first it would have mitigated suffering. The verse in 1 Tim. 5:23 implores Timothy because of bad water and digestive issues to drink a little wine. Christ was accused of being a "winebibber" in Matthew 11:19 clearly demonstrates that indeed there were alcoholic beverages He and the disciples would partake in (as the wedding in Cana would also suggest since it was tasted by the official there and verified as such).

As Paul warns; not all things we are at liberty to do should be done. Firstly; we need to consider ourselves and anyone around us to make sure no one has problems with alcohol OR is a believer such as the person you responded to in order not to offend them with your liberties. That short of family settings and perhaps one or two close friends gets pretty difficult. Even drinking a bit to excess can be a slippery slope. At any event; clearly it isn't a sin to do this in context; and the fact it was used for many centuries as a pain killer when other more effective techniques only recently developed; as Proverbs states it is for those who are in great pain ( Proverbs 31:6-7). Those dying should be given pain relief is Solomon's message; but of course we shouldn't be drawn to excesses as he was as the rest of Proverbs teaches us with wisdom after the fact.

Simply being a distraction from God or enjoying any substance that is controlling us is dangerous. We have to be ever vigilant; such benefits as resveratrol found in red grapes and in wine can certainly be found in the fruit itself. Certain medication perhaps in a tincture of alcohol can be more effective.

May He guide you in these matters.

Agape.. Rich P

It will be recalled that when Jesus was offered wine to relieve His agonies at the cross he refused (although he was given the sour vinegar stuff right before He died). ( Matthew 27:34 as compared with John 19:29). Hence in that case the alcohol was for antiseptic purposes; when in the first it would have mitigated suffering. The verse in 1 Tim. 5:23 implores Timothy because of bad water and digestive issues to drink a little wine. Christ was accused of being a "winebibber" in Matthew 11:19 clearly demonstrates that indeed there were alcoholic beverages He and the disciples would partake in (as the wedding in Cana would also suggest since it was tasted by the official there and verified as such).

As Paul warns; not all things we are at liberty to do should be done. Firstly; we need to consider ourselves and anyone around us to make sure no one has problems with alcohol OR is a believer such as the person you responded to in order not to offend them with your liberties. That short of family settings and perhaps one or two close friends gets pretty difficult. Even drinking a bit to excess can be a slippery slope. At any event; clearly it isn't a sin to do this in context; and the fact it was used for many centuries as a pain killer when other more effective techniques only recently developed; as Proverbs states it is for those who are in great pain ( Proverbs 31:6-7). Those dying should be given pain relief is Solomon's message; but of course we shouldn't be drawn to excesses as he was as the rest of Proverbs teaches us with wisdom after the fact.

Simply being a distraction from God or enjoying any substance that is controlling us is dangerous. We have to be ever vigilant; such benefits as resveritol found in red grapes and in wine can certainly

I've read historical accounts, that in the Book of Acts, witnesses went house to house, witnessing events to others. That's how Jesus wanted it. Person to person witnessing.

She was one of the women who went to enter the tomb of Jesus and properly dress his body. She told the disciples Jesus's body wasn't there. She was in the Upper Room on Pentecost. There are records of that. I don't think she traveled with the Disciples after that, as there is no scripture for that.

Hi Bob , I have always believed that Mary Magdalene is also the Mary of John Ch 11 , however that's just my belief . All those stories that you speak if are just that , men's imaginations working overtime . If you want to know the Truth it's best to stick to what it actually says , or doesn't say , in the Bible .

Hollywood

The glory of woman in the scriptures is for lack of a better word "downplayed". Evidence of which are biblical, a condition that the holy spirit in and through the gospel and ancient writings "downplays". In the same sense as being born again! Conversion is the main theme in the gospel. Being born "Again", is why Jesus came to save the world!!

Beginning with the mother of Jesus and the story of Elizabeth, these two have unconditionally excepted the words of angels! Mary surely had known the promise of the Messiah, and yet does not question the facts of Her pregnancy. If you can imagine a child growing in your womb, while believing the words from the Lord this whole time! Yet, this child she knows nothing about shall come from within Her! I watched as my daughter had her first child, as it grew within Her. I couldn't imagine the fear of a human being growing inside of me, let alone the knowledge that it would be Christ!

The glory that this one has been given should never be downplayed, even by the media! For they no nothing of God , or the love for it! Neither do they contribute anything but devise hate which come from hell itself. These are the "Beware of false prophets" Jesus has spoken of. Remember the kingdom of heaven is within you! Even as Jesus was born from this Holy woman, such are we who are born again! Repent and be baptized

Hi Bob. And I would add Luke 8:2 to your list. I would pay very little heed to any secular construct of any biblical account, whether from books or screen. A few may have done a reasonable job of it, but I would think that with so little information to fill a book or a two hour showing, much imagination & re-telling/re-hashing of the accounts (whether true or apocryphal) would be needed. And of course, the writer's leanings & the message he wants to promote, would undoubtedly play a major part in all of it.

I have tried on a couple of occasions to watch a biblical series, but had to shut if off because of gross error or a display of the writer's wild imaginations that were inconsistent with the Holy Word of God. I find it more profitable for my own imagination to play out when reading a biblical story from the Bible & then let the Spirit check me if I have strayed too far by doing so.

When in ministry in Pakistan (late '80s), we often showed the Jesus film via a projector & screen, to various villages. These were mostly Christian folk (nominal), but often Muslims would come over to view it as it was shown in the open air. After this, the Gospel was presented & challenge given. This film was based on Luke's Gospel, though the one I have now on my computer (downloaded from the Web) is based on John's Gospel. Very accurate, plenty of Scripture, with narration as well. There are several now available for viewing from the Web, but one can soon discern which of them is profitable for continued watching. And yes, Mary Magdalene is also seen in them. Maybe, this might be useful for you if wanting to view the whole New Testament being played out.

"Mary Magdalene became a follower of Jesus and traveled with Jesus and the Disciples"

I understand that is the common belief, but as I noted my NT search shows Mary's very first contact with Jesus was a the cross. Matthew, 27:56. How was she a follower?

I've seen some movies and videos I do not care for.

Mary Magdalene became a follower of Jesus and traveled with Jesus and the Disciples. I'm sure she wanted to hear Jesus teachings. There were other women who traveled with the Twelve. They cooked and probably washed a few clothes and milked the goats.

Apostle Paul traveled with women too. I'm sure every precaution was taken to be above scrutiny or accusation. Paul had disciples travel with him too.

Mishael

I am fascinated by the stories in books and on TV of Mary Magdalene. So many details about her life with Jesus, but in my search, she only appears 11 times in the NT.

The first is Matthew 27:56 when Jesus is dying on the cross. The last is St. John 20:18 after His rise when she tells the Disciples what He said to her.

Where do all these stories about the lives of her and Jesus before the Cross come from?

I believe it was to clearly point out the fulfillment of Prophecy. Please see:

Son of David prophecy : 1Kings 9:5, Jeremiah 33:17, 2Chronicles 7:18, Psalms 132:11,

The coming promise of deliverance : Jeremiah 23:5, Jeremiah 33:15, proclaimed: Matthew 22:24,43,44,45, Matthew 1:1,

Luke 18:38, some identified JESUS as by different names for significance to themselves, healer, deliverer

Son of GOD : Genesis 6:2,4, Daniel 3:25, Matthew 8:29, Matthew 14:33, Matthew 27:54, Mark 1:1, Luke 1:35, Romans 8:14, Matthew 11:27,

Son of Man : prophecy : Daniel 7:13-14, Revelation 1, Genesis 3:15, Ezekiel 30:1-4, Job 25:4-6, Job 35:8-16, Matthew 24:30, proclaimed : Mark 14:21, John 12, Matthew 11:19,

Additionally he was called the BRANCH : Job 14:7, Psalms 80:15, Isaiah 11:1, Isaiah 14:19, Jeremiah 23:5, Zechariah 3:8, Zechariah 6:12, proclamed: John 15,

Also "shall be called Nazarene " Matthew 2:23,

Hopefully this is helpful

I'm glad you asked!

Exodus 25, is where/when the Bible 1st describes the Ark of The Covenant / Testament. Exodus 26 is the detailed description of it's strict rules of being set within the holy place and the most holy, sanctified, behind the veil Exodus 26:33, then Exodus 30, Exodus 31, Exodus 35, Exodus 37, Exodus 39, Exodus 40,

Leviticus 16:2, is where the LORD warns, there are/were strict rules, even risk of life going before the Ark of The Covenant / testament,

Numbers 3 & Numbers 4, explains the care of the Ark & all things regarding the Temple; had dedicated people, & their children, that specifically looked after covering for items, even carrying them. Example: Numbers 4:5-15 note again threat of death in Numbers 4:15, & Numbers 4:16-20,

Note Numbers 7:89, Deuteronomy 10:5,8, Deuteronomy 31:26, Joshua 3:13-17,

1Samuel 5, 1Samuel 6, 1Samuel 6:19, remember the rules, GOD specifically said. 2Samuel 6:3-7, 1Chronicles 13:10, 1Chronicles 15:2-3, 1Chronicles 15:12-15, there are more examples._..if you would like more, let me know.

Significant that during the crucifixion of JESUS Christ our Savior that holy veil was torn: Mark 15:37-39, Luke 23:42-47, Matthew 27:50-51,

* Hebrews 10, Hebrews 9,

Please read Hebrews 10 whole chapter

Hopefully these are helpful

Hello Gwynette. There are examples in the Bible of those who suicided. One is in 1 Samuel 31:4, when King Saul wanted his armour-bearer to kill him as he was wounded in the battle. He refused, so Saul "fell upon his own sword" & his armour-bearer seeing this & the implications that would have upon him, also did likewise. There is also Samson ( Judges 16:26-30) who with his great strength from the Lord, pulled down the pillars of the building that he was prisoner in, thus killing himself & many Philistines that were gathered there. And we know about Judas Iscariot as well ( Matthew 27:3-5) who hanged himself after he realized his sin in betraying Jesus.

So even though we have instances of suicide, I don't believe the Bible ever talks specifically about it as being sin. Why some believe that suicide is sin, is because by definition, it is self-murder & murder in any form is sin. I know that one who contemplates suicide does so under very trying mental, emotional & physical conditions - a good friend of mine having taken his own life because of severe end-stage multiple sclerosis. I tried my best to encourage him & give him hope, but his continual body pain & loss of movement was too much & made existence meaningless for him. Every avenue should be resorted to so that such a desperate person may receive help & counsel & most cities have a Lifeline phone number to assist.

Ezekiel 37:12-14, I was amazed the other day to see this prophecy.

Matthew 27:52-53, I didn't find anywhere it clearly states how long.

Luke 24:51, Mark 16:19, Acts 1:1-11, here is the account recorded of when Jesus was taken up.

Hopefully these are helpful

Please read: Isaiah 26:19, Ezekiel 37:12,13, Matthew 27:50-54,

John 12:1, Romans 8, Matthew 9:18-25, Matthew 11:5, Matthew 28, Mark 9:9, Luke 24:46, John 2:22, John 5:19-29, = Matthew 25:31-46, John 11:25, John 11:39-53, John 12:9, Romans 14:9, 1Peter 4, Revelation 1:5-8,

Revelation 20,

Ephesians 5,

Hopefully these are helpful

Additional scripture for you:

Matthew 3-7, Matthew 5, Matthew 5:20, Matthew 9:10-13, Matthew 9:14-17, Matthew 9:27-34, Matthew 12:14, Matthew 12, Matthew 15, Matthew 16, Matthew 16:6,12, Matthew 19:3, * Matthew 21, Matthew 22, Matthew 22:15, it appears they were wrongfully referring to the book of Tobet, in 1611 version, Tobit 3:7,8, Matthew 22:29,

* Matthew 23:2, whole chapter Matthew 23, Matthew 27:62,

Matthew 23:13,14,

Mark 2:16, Mark 2, Mark 3:1-6, Mark 7:1-23, Mark 8:11,15, Mark 10:2, Mark 12:13,

Luke 5:17-39, Luke 6:2-11, Luke 7:29-50, Luke 11:37-54, Luke 12:1, Luke 12:31, Luke 14:1-24, Luke 14, Luke 16:14-31, Luke 16, Luke 19:35-39,

John 1:19-34, John 3:1-21, John 7:28-32, John 7:43-53, John 8:3-22, John 9, John 9:15,16, John 11:37-57, John 12:19, John 12:42, John 18:3,

Acts 15, Acts 23,

Hopefully these are helpful in your study, I included several Chapters to read next to verses, to read within context, for better understanding

Hi Haold, or maybe, Harold. That's a difficult question to answer, as we are not told an exact number of people resurrected. Some that come to mind from the Old & New Testaments are: Widow of Zarephath's son ( 1 Kings 17:9-24); Shunammite woman's son ( 2 Kings 4:8-37); an unnamed man ( 2 Kings 13:20,21); Widow of Nain's son ( Luke 7:11-17); Jairus' daughter ( Luke 8:49-56); Lazarus ( John 11:1-45); of course, our Lord Jesus Christ (Luke chapter 24); an unknown number of saints buried in Jerusalem ( Matthew 27:50-54); Tabitha ( Acts 9:36-42); Eutychus ( Acts 20:7-12).

1Timothy 5:8, please read 1Timothy 5, for context, it's not just talking about immediate family but providing for Aunts.

Titus 1:7, 1Corinthians 4:2, Luke 19, Luke 12, Matthew 25,

Matthew 27:35, John 19:24, Psalms 22:18, Mark 15:24, Luke 23:34, Joel 3:3, Obediah 1:11, Nahum 3:10, Esther 3:7-15, Esther 9:24,

Leviticus 16:8-10, Numbers 26:55,56, Numbers 33:54, Numbers 34:13, Jonah 1:7, Acts 1:26,

Proverbs 16:33, Proverbs 18:18, Luke 1:9,

Please read the following

Hebrews 10:1-31, Hebrews 9:1-28,

The law of Priests, regarding the Ark of The Covenant & Holy of Holies : Exodus 25:8-22, Exodus 26:33,34, Leviticus 16:1-34, Deuteronomy 10:8,

note: Hebrews 9:3-5,

1Samuel 3:1-3, 1Samuel 3:19, * 1Samuel 3:20, 1Samuel 7:15,16,17, 1Samuel 8:1, doesn't call Samuel or his sons priests, 1Samuel 9:9,10,15,19,

* 1Samuel 4:3-11, 1Samuel 4:22, 1Samuel 5:1, 1Samuel 7:2, The Ark of The Covenant was taken,

1Samuel 8:5,6,7,19,22,

David didn't become King until after Samuel passed on. 1Samuel 25:1, while David was still hiding from Saul. 2Samuel 6:1-9, is David's 1st attempt to retrieve the Ark of The Covenant, 2Samuel 6, * 1Chronicles 13:3, Please also read 1Chronicles 15,

Significant note: Luke 1:5-23, Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45,

Short answer-no. Elisha had the unfortunate task of satisfying the curiousity of those who thought he was dropped someplace on a mountain after God took Elijah up. ( 2 Kings 2:16-18). Enoch was also taken up as he pleased God.

There is some controversy as to the identity of the 2 prophets in Revelation; although Elijah was stated to return according to Malachi before the great and dreadful Day of the Lord. Hebrews 9:27 states that man is destined to die once then face the judgment. Since the 2 prophets die at the hands of Antichrist someday; it certainly could be those two the only ones raptured as it were.

Christ began the resurrection of those during the "church age." He was the first of the "firstfruits"; followed by "many who rose from their graves" after the Resurrection of Christ ( Matthew 27:52-53). Some according to 1 Cor. 15:51-52will not "sleep" or die physically either. What is hard to explain is how in still mortal bodies these saints can be in God's presence. Perhaps they are as those saints in Revelation; under the throne or removed from being so close to God that they would perish. If this theory is wrong in regard to Enoch then perhaps he will undergo some transformation into a new body. It would seem though that it took Christ's resurrection removing those in hades (who used to be in a pleasant part such as Lazarus) ( Luke 16:22). Post Resurrection; to be "absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." ( 2 Cor. 5:8).

There are many interesting analogies with Elijah and Elisha in terms of those today who are ready for the Rapture. Elisha didn't want to talk of the event. ( 2 Kings 2:3). We should seek to be as those taken (such as Noah) FROM trouble in the Rapture rather than those who narrowly escaped (typified by Lot). If we are like Lot's wife; we may be swept up in destruction.

It is nice to know that if we are removed from our earthly tabernacle before the Rapture we will be in His presencce ( 2 Cor. 5:1).

Sister GiGi: Revelation is very much ACTUAL; but the ACTUAL is hidden in symbols, metaphors, etc.

The seven seals were opened at the death and resurrection of Christ and pentecost, forty five days later.

Revelation 6

First seal white horse (Christ) to conquer (as Holy Ghost).

Second seal red horse (Satan to deceive the whole world)

Third seal, black horse, balances (judgement give to rightly divide the word of God)

Forth seal Death and the grave

Fifth seal Old testament saints awaiting Christ resurrection.

Hebrews 11:39 And these all (Old Saints) having obtained a good report through FAITH (given to them by the Holy Ghost), received not the promise (of Eternal life, but having to wait under the alter (the grave) for Christ resurrection).

Hebrews 11:40 God having provided some better thing for us (we shall never see death), that they (Old Saints) without us (New Saints) should be made perfect (through Christ resurrection).

Revelation 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that has his part in the FIRST RESURRECTION .....

Sixth seal Christ crucifixation and resurrection.

Revelation 6:12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon turned to blood.

Joel 2:31 And the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible DAY of the Lord come.

Matthew 27:51-53 earthquake, Old saints resurrected, moon (symbolic of Christ, Psalms 89:37).

Seventh seal silence in heaven one half hour (symbolic) of the forty five days between the resurrection and pentecost.

Daniel 12:11 From the time the daily sacrifice shall be taken away and the ABOMINATION THAT MAKETH DESOLATE SET UP, there shall be twelve hundred ninety days (forty two months, Christ ministry IN THE FLESH).

Daniel 12:12 Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days (pentecost, Christ second coming and ministry on earth).

GBU

This subject has been hotly contested and I just had a member of my small group take that stance this week. The fact that God is said to put "eternity" in men's hearts surely shows that there is a concept of it once we are at a certain age. ( Ecclesiastes 3:11). We also have Stephen who right before he died saw Christ standing on His throne; then he "fell asleep." Acts 7:60. We have the great "cloud of witnesses" of Hebrews 11; those under the throne who have been martyred ( Rev. 6:9-11); David's commentary about his son dying ( 2 Sam. 12:23) where he says that his son can't come to him but he shall go to see him (after death); the appearance of Moses and Elijah (although Elijah was translated) at the transfiguration; and verses about Sheol. Jesus has the parable about Lazarus and the rich man ( Luke 16:19-31) about the fate of O.T. people in both sections of Sheol; and the captivity being made captive ( Eph. 4:8 also prophesied in Psalm 68:18; Jesus promising the thief on the cross that today he would be in paradise ( Luke 23:43); and that would be followed by many saints coming out of their graves after the Resurrection ( Matthew 27:52-53). We also have Hebrews 9:27 which says man is destined to die once; then face the judgment.

There are many other confirming verses. We must keep in mind that when the word "qeber" is used defining the grave; and a person ceasing to exist it is the body. Sheol; however is the land of the dead. We must also keep in mind that the spirits of just men made perfect ( Heb. 12:23) would start with Christ the first of the firstfruits; so to speak. God is not the God of the dead but the living ( Luke 20:38). John 8:56 says that Abraham longed to see the day HE SAW IT AND REJOICED. We have Paul's vision of things unspeakable whether in the flesh or not he didn't know ( 2 Cor. 12:2). Finally; John's vision in Revelation literally saw the future.

The biggest issue is WHY people think soul sleep exists. It concerns me.

Hello Doug. The Bible doesn't specifically deal with the subject of suicide though there are many verses to explore which can certainly help those who have reached the lowest ebb in their lives. I will share a few biblical examples of those who did suicide & also verses to encourage & give hope to those who have lost all hope.

Examples to read about: Judges 9:50-54; 2 Samuel 17:21-23; 1 Kings 16:15-19; Matthew 27:3-5.

Verses of encouragement: Psalm 6:6-9; Psalm 31:9-16; Psalm 33:18-22; Psalm 94:17-19; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 Peter 5:7.

Manuel: The day of the Lord began when John the Baptist came preaching the kingdom of God is at hand.

This ONE DAY, a day called TODAY has been going on now for two thousand years.

Zechariah 14:6 And it shall come to pass in that day (of the Lord), that the light shall not be clear, nor dark:

We are somewhere inside the hours of that day now and the light is neither clear, nor dark.

Zechariah 14:7 But it shall be one day which shall be known to the LORD, not day, nor night: but it shall come to pass, that at evening time (the end of that day and the beginning of the next day) IT SHALL BE LIGHT.

Revelation 21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are THE TEMPLE OF IT.

Revelation 21:23 And the city (you are the new Jerusalem), had no need of the sun, neither the moon, to shine in it; for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.

Zechariah 12:7 The LORD also shall save the tents of Judah FIRST, that the glory of the house of David and the glory of the inhabitants of (new) Jerusalem do not magnify themselves against Judah.

Matthew 27:52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,

Matthew 27:53 And came put of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city (new Jerusalem, and appeared to many (as ministering spirits).

Zachariah 12:8 And in that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of (new) Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David (Christ); and the house of David (Christ) shall be as God, as (the image of) the angle of the LORD before them.

GBU

The practice of casting lots is mentioned seventy times in the Old Testament and seven times in the New Testament. In spite of the many references to casting lots in the Old Testament, nothing is known about the actual lots themselves. They could have been sticks of various lengths, flat stones like coins, or some kind of dice; but their exact nature is unknown. The closest modern practice to casting lots is likely flipping a coin.

The practice of casting lots occurs most often in connection with the division of the land under Joshua (Joshua chapters 14-21), a procedure that God instructed the Israelites on several times in the book of Numbers ( Numbers 26:55; 33:54; 34:13; 36:2). God allowed the Israelites to cast lots in order to determine His will for a given situation ( Joshua 18:6-10; 1 Chronicles 24:5,31). Various offices and functions in the temple were also determined by lot ( 1 Chronicles 24:5, 31; 25:8-9; 26:13-14). The sailors on Jonah's ship ( Jonah 1:7) also cast lots to determine who had brought God's wrath upon their ship. The eleven apostles cast lots to determine who would replace Judas ( Acts 1:26). Casting lots eventually became a game people played and made wagers on. This is seen in the Roman soldiers casting lots for Jesus' garments ( Matthew 27:35).

The New Testament nowhere instructs Christians to use a method similar to casting lots to help with decision-making. Now that we have the completed Word of God, as well as the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide us, there is no reason to be using games of chance to make decisions. The Word, the Spirit, and prayer are sufficient for discerning God's will today-not casting lots, rolling dice, or flipping a coin.

Mishael: people ought always seek the Lord for answers to problems and decisions. Sometimes, NO answer is the answer. Be sure your question is a Godly one. also, God appointed prophets to speak the answer of the Lord: do this or do that. Today: we pray.

Hebrews 9:27-28, Acts 2:22-35, Proverbs 15:11, 2Peter 2:4-8, Revelation 1:18, Revelation 20,

Matthew 27:50-54, Luke 16,

James 1:5,

Hopefully these are helpful in your searching for wisdom on this matter.

I think if you trace out commentaries on Judas in the Gospels and Acts you get the answers to both of your questions.

The set of scriptures that speak about Judas before he committed himself to betray Jesus are: Mark 3:13-19, Luke 6:13-16, John 6:61-71

The event that triggered Judas to act on his decision to betray Jesus: Matthew 26:6-16, Mark 14:3-11, John 12:3-8

Judas identified as betrayer at the last supper: Matthew 26:20-25, Mark 14:17-21, Luke 22:21-22, John 13:18-31

Once his betrayal was set in motion: John 17:9-12

At the betrayal: Matthew 26:45-50, Mark 14:40-46, Luke 22:45-48, John 18:1-9

After completing his betrayal: Matthew 27:3-10, Acts 1:16 and Acts 1:20

We must acknowledge Jn 2:24-25 was true of Christ before He chose any of His disciples. He was never deceived by anyone that temporarily followed him but fell away, including Judas, John 6:64. No prophet had been in Israel for centuries, so Christ alone had this ability when He came until Pentacost. After Pentacost the hearts of certain individuals could be revealed by Christ's Spirit to born again believers that are specially given that gift, such as Peter ( Acts 5:1-13, Acts 8:1-25) Note, Jusas, Ananias and Saphira, and Simon all had their hearts exposed as false thru their follies with money.

Judas was a disciple and he was broken off the vine, but he never had the fruit of the Holy Spirit and was never pronounced pruned/cleaned by the Father or Jesus. We know this because Judas was broken off by the Father before Jesus told the disciples they were pruned/cleaned branches abiding in Him, the true vine, who would bear fruit in John 15. Judas was marked unclean, he was never born again of the Spirit at Pentacost or made an Apostle for the great commission. He died a disciple without the fruitful presence of the Holy Spirit. He is proof that false fruitless brethren can be among us who depart 1 Jn 2:18-20, but not proof some are broken off by God who actually bear fruit by abiding in Jesus.