Jehoshua is on the throne of David in New Jerusalem and He is the King of a New Israel
In this study I will look into the identity of the sea beast, antichrist, false prophet (earth beast) and Mystery Babylon. This will not be an exhaustive verse by verse study but rather an overview. As an amillennialist with a historicist eschatology my view of who the sea beast and antichrist is must fit a perspective that spans the age of the new testament Church.
Not all amillennialists or historicist take this approach as some take the numbers 42 months, time, times and half a time, a thousand two hundred and three score days as literal for the very last period of Church history or symbolizing years meaning instead of instead of 1,260 days they believe this numbers refers to 1,260 years. Adventists determine this time period to begin in 538 AD and end in 1798 AD. I posit the numbers to be symbolic of the entire new covenant Church age. How you understand these numbers will have an influence on you in determining the identity of the sea beast, earth beast, Mystery Babylon and the antichrist. Some believe the antichrist to be a system rather than a specific individual and believe that the antichrist is one and the same as the sea beast. Some believe that it is both a system and an individual who runs that system and that the antichrist is the sea beast or head of the sea beast system. Some may identify the antichrist as the false prophet because the false prophet has obvious religious overtones. Some modern amillennialists spiritualize Revelation 13, 17 and 18 away to say that antichrist is any institution that is against the Messiah and His Church. While technically this is true it way over spiritualizes what seem to be specific information about the antichrist, false prophet and Babylon. Some of this over spiritualize is due to the fact that the identifying the identity of the beasts and Babylon can be difficult, however we are told in Revelation 1: 3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. We are actually blessed when we hear (understand) the words of the book of Revelation. We are also told in Revelation 13: 18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six. John tells the brethren that they with wisdom can understand the number of the beast. We will start in Revelation 11 that speaks of the time period in which these things will take place, persecution of the Church by the world. Already in chapter 1 of Revelation, John said these things were to shortly come to pass and that the time was at hand. These statements by John would be strange if prophecies of the book of Revelation were reserved for 2,000 years into the future in a literal 7 year period. Remember that the book of Revelation is codified (signified) (Rev 1:1) in symbols. This is important to understand when we read of numbers, beasts, judgments and plagues. Revelation 11:1-3 (KJV) 1And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.2But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.3And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. In verse 2, John sees the Gentiles treading the holy city for 42 months which is the same time periods mentioned in chapter 12 and 13. Remember that John identified the Church as already going through tribulation in chapter 1. John wrote Revelation in the first century. So the tribulation of the Church started in the first century and chapter 12 corroborates this. The Gentiles are unbelievers, those natural Gentiles who have been converted are grafted into the Commonwealth of Israel and are the Israel of God along with believing Jews (Ephesians 2; Galatians 6) as there is no more Jewish-Gentile distinction in the new covenant Israel. Paul confirms this and Jehoshua confirmed that this was part of His mission to make one fold (the Church) out of two sheepfolds (Jew and Gentile). With that said, the world persecutes the holy city (the Church) for 42 months which is the duration of the new covenant Church age. Futurists think that the Holy city is referring to earthly Jerusalem, however this is hard to believe since Paul described Jerusalem as a city in bondage (Galatians 5:25-26) and that the heavenly New Jerusalem was free and the mother of us all. Also the author of Hebrews said we (the Church) have no continuing city here meaning earth (Hebrews 13:14) but that we seek one to come (from heaven). Hebrews 11 stated that even the heroes of old didn't seek an earthly city but rather a heavenly one built by Jehovah God. Hebrews 12 that we as believers go to Mount Zion for our worship which he says is the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem where the Church of the firstborn is Headquartered. Revelation 21:2 describes New Jerusalem as a bride, the Church is referred to as the bride of Messiah. In verse 1 of Revelation 11 the reference to the temple of Jehovah and those who worship therein is speaking about the Church which consistently is called the temple of God in the new testament (Ephesians 2). The world has been given to the unbelievers as they are the Gentiles who are outside the temple i.e. the Church. They tread on the Church for the duration of the new covenant Church age (42 months). History has bore out that indeed the Church has been persecuted consistently by the unbelieving world throughout the new covenant Church age. Even today throughout Africa, the middle east and Asia this happening intensely. In America and Europe the persecution of believers is happening more in a cultural shift type of way where those who stand up for the faith are marginalized socially and economically but not necessarily physically. In verse 3 of Revelation 11 we learn that the two witnesses testify (prophesy) for a thousand two hundred and threescore days which is the same as the 42 months mentioned in verse 2. The two witnesses prophesy during the duration of the new covenant Church age. These are not as some suppose Moses and Elijah resurrected as the bible teaches that the heroes of old will not be made perfect (resurrection) without us (Hebrews 11:40). Moses and Elijah will be resurrected at the same time as all the other saints which is at the second advent. I have a study on the two witnesses and I show that the two witnesses are the Church as scripture teaches that the two witnesses are the office of king and priest which the Church is called a Royal (king) priesthood (1 Peter 2:9; Rev 1:5-6; Rev 5:10). Verse 3 describes the Church preaching the gospel during the new covenant era before the advent of Jehoshua. Lets now go to verses 7-11 of Revelation chapter 11: 7And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.8And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.9And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.10And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.11And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. Verse 7, Even though the beast is active against the Church from the time of Messiah's ascension onwards, there is a final increase in intensity in the persecution of the Church by the anti-Messiah. Verse 8, the martyred saints lie dead in that great city which is the same city described in Revelation 18 which is Mystery Babylon. Some say this is Jerusalem because it mentions where our Lord was crucified. This however is not so because Jerusalem doesn't match the description of Mystery Babylon detailed in Revelation 18. This should be taken as symbolic as stated by John: "the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Eygpt" This city spiritually has the characteristics of Sodom (Homosexuality), Eygpt (paganism) and Jerusalem (hatred and rejection of our Lord Jehoshua Messiah). Revelation 18 details the economic side of Mystery Babylon and the United States of America is a perfect fit. Also, the characteristics of Sodom, Eygpt and Jerusalem are rampant in America and increasing exponentially. Verse 9, we saw a time period of 42 months in verse 2 now we see a shorter time period of 3 and a half days. This like the 42 months is symbolic and indicates a shorter time period of intense persecution against the Church immediately prior to the second advent of Jehoshua. The 3 and a half days represent a brief time period right before the Son of God's coming, whereas the 42 months represent the whole of the new covenant Church age. Verse 10, those who dwell on the earth will celebrate the killing of God's people because it was the two witnesses (Church) testifying against their sin that tormented them. This will include unbelieving family members and spouses who will be glad that their loved ones have been killed. Some may think that this is unthinkable but look at the social and political climate today and see and hear the hatred that the left wing liberals have for Christians and their morals. The sentiment today in America is that you better change with the times or you will be marginalized. This marginalization is economic and social right now but the time is coming when it will become violent. We have already seen violent confrontations between liberals and conservatives. In the eyes of liberals, bible believing Christians represent all that is wrong with society. Bible believing Christians stand in the way of the Utopia the liberals desire for the world. This is because we refuse to remain silent on issues such as abortion and Homosexuality. Those that practice such sins look at Christians as a thorn in their side. Verse 11, after the 3 and a half days i.e. the brief period of intense persecution, the breath of life from God will be breathed into the martyred saints and they will stand on their feet and ascend into heaven as verse 12 states: "And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them" Many believe that this refers to the resurrection and rapture of the Church and indeed this is that event. This proves that the saints go to heaven after the resurrection and rapture not earth. Other passages in the book of Revelation confirm that the saints have a heavenly destination after their resurrection and translation from the earth. We will come back to the rest of chapter 11 later but now we will go to Revelation 12 as my primary goal is to identify the antichrist, false prophet and Mystery Babylon. Revelation Chapter 12 1And 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:2And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.3And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.4And 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.5And 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.6And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. 7And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,8And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.9And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.10And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.11And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.12Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.13And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child.14And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.15And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.16And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.17And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12 starts another cycle (recapitulation) of the events of bible prophecy as it takes us back to the birth of Jehoshua. This woman in verse 1 is the nation of Israel with the 12 stars representing the 12 tribes. Verse 2 describes the Messiah being born out of the nation of Israel, again the woman in view is the nation of Israel. The labor pains represent the very long waiting period that Israel had to endure for the arrival of their Messiah. It had been over 600 years since their had been a Davidic king on the throne. Verse 3, this dragon is Satan symbolizing his spiritual dominion of earthly kingdoms (seven heads and 10 horns). Verse 4, Satan drew away a third of the angels in his rebellion against God. Satan pictured as the Dragon sought to kill the Messiah as soon as he was born. This alludes to Herod who sought to kill Jehoshua upon hearing that the Messiah had been born. Also, the Dragon in this instance represents the Jewish religious leaders and the Romans who sought the life of Jehoshua and ended up killing him on the cross. Verse 5, the woman i.e. Israel brought forth the Messiah who was the predestined Son of God who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. This Messiah had to be of the seed of David (2 Sam 7) in order to be the rightful King (Psalm 89). Jehoshua being caught up to God's throne is a reference to His ascension into heaven. The verse actually says "caught up to God, and His throne." Jehoshua sat on God's throne on His right hand and this throne is also the throne of David (Acts 2:29-36; Heb 1:8-9; Psalm 89:37). Its the throne of David, since now, a Davidic King sits on it. The throne of David was also called the throne of Jehovah God. Verse 6, the woman "Israel" i.e the Church goes into the wilderness right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven which shows us that the 1,260 days is figurative for the new covenant Church age. There is no reason to insert a nearly 2,000 year gap as the futurists do. Some think that the woman i.e. Israel doesn't go into the wilderness until the events having to do with AD 70. I subscribe that the wilderness experience starts right after the ascension of the Messiah. Like the Israel of the old testament, the new covenant Israel sojourns and suffers and believe this began to be the case immediately once the Messiah ascended to heaven. Wilderness denotes an experience in addition to a geographical location. The new covenant Church wilderness experience is a spiritual one in nature and does not always have to be a literal location. However, because the Church is a sojourning body it will often be driven into the literal wilderness in order to hide from its persecutors. This happened when the early Messianic's in Jerusalem went to Pella to escape the events of AD 70. Also, the Messianic's were often on the run from their own non unbelieving countrymen. Paul speaks of this showing that even before AD 70 the Church was driven into the literal wilderness. Later, Christians in the Roman empire went through this suffering severe persecution under Nero, Domitian in the 1st century. There were other persecutions during the early centuries by the Roman empire up until 312 AD. Later, Arians, Albigenses, Waldenses, Huggenots and Anabaptists all experienced this. What this verse shows is that the woman i.e. the true Church was never the mainstream Church system i.e. Orthodoxy the Catholic Church meaning the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox and Protestantism/Evangelicalism. The true Church was in hiding from the time of Messiah's ascension and has always been a remnant in the wilderness not in so called Church buildings or ecclesiastical organizations. This remnant is marked by 3 main characteristics which we will address shortly. Verses 7 and 8 of Revelation 12, Michael and his angels fought against Satan and his angels expelling them from heaven, as up until Messiah's ascension the devil had access to heaven to accuse the brethren. The war symbolizes the effect of Jehoshua's exaltation upon Satan and his forces. Colossians 1:16-17 and 1 Peter 3:21-22 are good verses to go to that correspond with this verse. All angels fallen and unfallen, all dominions, powers and authorities were made subject to the Son of God upon His ascension into heaven. Verse 9, restating the effects of the war in that Satan and his angels were cast out of heaven and to the earth as a result of the Son of God's ascension into heaven and enthronement as King of Israel. Verse 10 of Revelation 12 "And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night." A voice in heaven is heard saying that Now salvation is come and the Kingdom of God and His Messiah. The key word is "Now" and in context this has to do with the ascension of the Messiah into heaven and His enthronement. Remember, it was because of the Son of God's ascension into heaven that Satan and his angels were cast out. The voice in heaven connects the arrival of God and Messiah's Kingdom with the casting out of Satan showing us that the ascension is in view here. There is no need to push this verse 2,000 years into the future as futurists do. Verse 11 of Revelation 12 "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Believers overcome through faith in Messiah's death and resurrection, which frees them from the fear of death, enabling them to present a fearless testimony. Verse 12 of Revelation 12 "Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time." The devil roams about like a roaring lion. The earth, since the time of Jehoshua's ascension, has Satan's full attention. His doom is sure as he has only a short time before the Son of God destroys him. Verse 13 of Revelation 13 "And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child." Right after the ascension of the Son of God, Satan starts persecuting the new covenant Church. Its important to understand this because it shows that the events of Revelation 12 started right at Jehoshua's ascension and not 2,000 years into the future. History also bears out that the persecution of the Church began right away after the Son of God ascended to heaven. Verse 14 of Revelation 12 "And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent." Right after the ascension of the Messiah into heaven, Satan starts persecuting the woman i.e. the Church. Right after Satan starts persecuting the Church, two wings of an eagle are given to the Church to fly into the wilderness. This is symbolic of the Church's wilderness experience and also it can be literal as often times believers have to go into hiding for fear of persecution. Again, this happens right after the Messiah's ascension not 2,000 years into the future. The reference to a time, times and half a time is the same time period mentioned in Revelation 11:2-3 "42 months and 1,260 days. The fact that this time period starts right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven shows it to be symbolic of the whole new covenant Church age. History shows that the Church has been in the wilderness far longer than a literal 1,260 days so this number is likely symbolic. Understanding that this time period starts right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven is key in a proper view of eschatology. It will help us identify the antichrist, false prophet and Mystery Babylon and who the true Church has always been. Verses 15 and 16 of Revelation 12 15And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood.16And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. The flood of water represents persecution. The fact that this persecution follows the woman going into the wilderness and was also said to take place once Satan was cast out of heaven again shows us that these events started taking place right after the Son of God's ascension into heaven. This hurts the futurists doctrine as they arbitrarily put many of these things far into the future. Here is the chronology * Son of God ascends into heaven and is enthroned. *Satan and his angels are cast out of heaven right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven. *Satan persecutes the woman i.e the Church right after being cast out. *the Church goes into the wilderness right after being persecuted for 1,260 days (symbolic). * Satan sends a flood of persecution right after the woman flees into the wilderness. Nowhere in this chronology does scripture insert a 2,000 year gap but rather these events happen one right after the other and history also proves these events started taking place right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven. Verse 17 of Revelation chapter 12 "And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jehoshua Messiah." This verse is a death blow to mainstream Orthodox Christianity as it shows that from the time of Jehoshua's ascension the Church has been a remnant and never the majority. Why is this a death blow to Orthodoxy? For one, they don't keep God's commandments as they reject the Sabbath either by saying its done away with or that Sunday replaced it. This happened in the 2nd century with what became known as the "Catholic" (universal) Church. Most if not all mainstream denominations come from the "Orthodox" family tree including the Evangelicals. The dragon i.e. Satan was wroth with the woman (the Church) which follows the chronology of sending a flood of persecution after her. Again this is all happening right after the Messiah's ascension into heaven and continues throughout the Church age. The woman is Israel and her seed is her offspring which is believers in the Son of God who make up the new covenant Israel (Galatians 6:12-18). The fact that the woman is Israel destroys the idea that "Orthodoxy" i.e. the Catholic Universal Church. This is devastating to the modern mainstream Church system which is a really a product of Constantine the Roman emperor and "Orthodoxy". The proof that the woman was never the "Orthodox Catholic system" is the fact that the remnant (small number) of the seed (believers in Messiah) of the woman (Israel, the Church) keep the commandments of God. This is an obvious reference to the 10 commandments. The 10 commandments are featured in connection with the judgment of the world twice in the book of Revelation showing us that one the main reasons for the Father's disapproval of the world is the breaking of His 10 commandments.
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In this study we will try to determine whether the Sabbath is still binding on new covenant believers. Also, whether or not Sunday now has significance as either a new Sabbath or a special day of gathering for the saints in the new covenant. This study will be primarily focused on new testament scriptures but we will start in the old testament and go back to it from time to time.
All Christians acknowledge without controversy that the Sabbath was a sign between Jehovah and old covenant Israel and that it was the 4th commandment of the decalogue given to Moses at Mt. Sinai. The controversy arises when we bring up whether or not the 10 commandments and the Sabbath in particular continues into the new covenant. Let's start from the beginning: Genesis 2:1-3 (KJV) 1Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.2And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.3And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. Jehovah God rested or "sabbathed" on the seventh day as an example to mankind and for mankind's good (Mark 2:27). Of course God Himself didn't need the rest but did this as an example to us. Verse 3 of Genesis 2, God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, thereby setting it apart and making it holy as a creation ordinance. It is telling that many in Christendom today call the Sabbath a bondage yet Jehovah blessed it. Can you imagine calling something Jehovah blessed a bondage? That's treading on dangerous ground. God put His stamp of approval (blessed) on this day. The establishment of the Sabbath at creation shows that its moral obligation was not limited to the law of Moses but abides as long as creation. Its important to keep in mind that there was no Hebrew people or Israelite nation at this time so the idea of the Sabbath is not necessarily inherently connected to them. Those that disagree with the Sabbath say that there is no scripture that shows anyone keeping it before the nation of Israel. While that may be true it is merely an assumption to say that proves that no one kept it before Israel. Let's look at Genesis 26: 5 Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws. Abraham is lauded as the father of the faith and was deemed righteous by faith i.e. believing in the promises of God. Yet Abraham still kept the commandments of God. "My charge, my commandments, my statutes, my laws" all four Hebrew words are used of the law of Moses, for God's moral law doesn't change. The question here is, was the Sabbath part of the commandments that Abraham kept? This is where we will go to the new testament and cite a verse that very possibly gives us the answer. Mark 2:27-28 (KJV) 27And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath:28Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. Man was created first, and then the Sabbath was instituted for him to benefit from its holy rest. Jehoshua doesn't say the Sabbath was made for Jews but rather made for man. This includes all mankind. Jehoshua was not abolishing the Sabbath, for He called it a creation ordinance, but He did oppose man-made legalism that made it a burden rather than an opportunity for spiritual delight in Jehovah (Isaiah 58:13-14). So if the Sabbath was made for man not just Jews and it was sanctified at creation, it is reasonable to conclude that it was among the commandments that Abraham kept. Remember, that the word "Adam" is the very definition of "man or mankind". We could say that the Sabbath was made for Adam (man). Nehemiah 9:13-14 (ASV) 13Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from heaven, and gavest them right ordinances and true laws, good statutes and commandments,14and madest known unto them thy holy sabbath, and commandedst them commandments, and statutes, and a law, by Moses thy servant, On this day of fasting, the Levites praise the God of Israel beginning in verse 4 of Nehemiah 9 for His works of creation and faithfulness to Abraham and the Israelites during their red sea deliverance. They then bring up Mt. Sinai and the giving of the law. Its noteworthy that in verse 13 of Nehemiah 9, that the Levites say that the ordinances, statutes and commandments were right and good and true. This refutes the idea that the Sabbath was a burdensome bondage or any of the 10 commandments for that matter. This is agreed to by Paul who says: Romans 7:12 (ASV) 12 So that the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and righteous, and good. Paul cannot be used as a tool to abolish the 10 commandments because He actually says they are holy, righteous and good. He says this in the present tense, which in his time was after the new covenant had been established. In verse 14 of Nehemiah, we see that Jehovah made known to Moses and the Israelites His (Jehovah's) holy (set apart at creation) Sabbath. This shows us that the Sabbath was already Jehovah's prior to Mt. Sinai. It was already something that existed prior to the giving of the law at Sinai. The Sabbath was not just a day of physical rest but also a day in which the Israelites were to gather together to worship Jehovah. Leviticus Chapter 23:1-4 (ASV) 1 And Jehovah spake unto Moses, saying,2 Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, The set feasts of Jehovah, which ye shall proclaim to be holy convocations, even these are my set feasts.3 Six days shall work be done: but on the seventh day is a sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation; ye shall do no manner of work: it is a sabbath unto Jehovah in all your dwellings.4 These are the set feasts of Jehovah, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their appointed season. A few things to note here is that the Sabbath is considered a feast day, a weekly one. The word feast is taken from the Hebrew word "mow'ed" (Strongs 4150) and means "festival, congregation, assembly, an appointment, a fixed time or season, place of meeting, solemnity". When you study the feasts you see that the Israelites worshipped Jehovah God in song, reading Torah, prayer, offering sacrifices, fellowshipping and eating together. Since the Sabbath falls under the feasts then we know these same things were also done on the weekly Sabbath. The way the feasts were kept in the sense of fellowship and breaking bread together is very reminiscent of Acts 2: 46And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. Back to Leviticus 23, verse 3 calls the Sabbath a holy (consecrated, dedicated) convocation. Convocation comes from the Hebrew word "miqra" (Strongs 4744) and means "something called out, i.e. a public meeting (the act, the persons, or the place); also a rehearsal: - assembly, calling, convocation, reading." So we see that without a shadow of a doubt the Sabbath was a day where the Israelites would gather together in a public meeting which today we call "going to Church". The same things that the old covenant Israelites did on the Sabbath is what many Christians do today in Church on Sundays such as: Worship God in song, read the bible, eat meals together and offer sacrifices albeit spiritual ones. In verse 4 of Leviticus we do see a distinction between the seventh day Sabbath and the other feasts as the others are proclaimed in their seasons according to the monthly/yearly calendar whereas as the weekly Sabbath was a continual cycle of rest every seventh day the counting of which began at creation. Now lets head to the new testament and look at some passages that talk about the Sabbath as well as Sunday. I'll actually be referring back to the old testament as we look at the new testament Sabbath passages. The purpose of this will to dispel some myths that people have about the Sabbath. Luke 4:14- 21 14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and a fame went out concerning him through all the region round about. 15And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.16And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and he entered, as his custom was, into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up to read.17And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And he opened the book, and found the place where it was written,18The Spirit of Jehovah is upon me, Because he anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor: He hath sent me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovering of sight to the blind, To set at liberty them that are bruised,19To proclaim the acceptable year of Jehovah.20And he closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down: and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fastened on him.21And he began to say unto them, To-day hath this scripture been fulfilled in your ears This passage in Luke 4 details the beginning of the gospel preaching of the Son of God and it officially began on the Sabbath day (verses 16 and 21). This event in the synagogue was a fulfillment of bible prophecy as Jehoshua quoted Isaiah 61 to let His countrymen know that He (Jehoshua) was the Savior and King of Israel that would preach the gospel of the Kingdom. This particular Sabbath was the day that the Kingdom of God had arrived as the Son of God announced the fulfillment of its arrival by His citation of Isaiah 61. Its very significant that the Messiah's gospel of the Kingdom preaching began on the Sabbath showing us Jehovah God's high regard for the seventh day of the week. Sunday keepers never mention the significance of this and yet will take every opportunity to lift up Sunday whenever there is something in scripture that mentions it. John 5:8-10 (ASV) 8Jesus saith unto him, Arise, take up thy bed, and walk.9And straightway the man was made whole, and took up his bed and walked. Now it was the sabbath on that day.10So the Jews said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath, and it is not lawful for thee to take up thy bed. This was likely on the feast of trumpets (verse 1) so it could have been a yearly Sabbath or the weekly Sabbath that this healing took place on. Jehoshua healed a man who had infirmity and told him to take up his bed and walk. The man was healed and did that very thing. The Jews told the man that he was breaking the Sabbath by taking up his bed. Many use this verse to prove that Jehoshua broke the Sabbath by telling the man to do this yet this was not a violation of the Sabbath. The man merely broke the traditions of the Pharisees who had added numerous man made rules to Sabbath keeping. Its amazing that many Christians immediately cling to the accusations of the Pharisees when it suits their doctrine. Lets now go to verses 16-20 of John 5: 16And for this cause the Jews persecuted Jesus, because he did these things on the sabbath.17But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh even until now, and I work.18For this cause therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only brake the sabbath, but also called God his own Father, making himself equal with God.19Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father doing: for what things soever he doeth, these the Son also doeth in like manner.20For the Father loveth the Son, and showeth him all things that himself doeth: and greater works than these will he show him, that ye may marvel. The Jews in their zealously for their own man made traditions wanted to kill Jehoshua for breaking their version of the Sabbath. Verse 17 is one of those verses that Sunday keepers badly mangle in order to uphold their man made traditions. Jehoshua's response to the Jews was that His Father (Jehovah) had been working (since creation) until that point and He Himself had been working (likely since the beginning of His ministry). Again, this is one of those verses that Sunday keepers rip from its context and justify the breaking of the Sabbath. They say that both the Father and Son work on the Sabbath so therefore its done away with and now we can work our secular jobs on the Sabbath and its no longer a binding commandment. This is honestly one of the most violent ripping of scripture from its context. Of course the Father is constantly working as He is the sustainer of creation. Remember Jehovah God didn't keep the Sabbath because He needed rest but rather as an example for mankind. Also, its ridiculous to think that the kin of work God and Jehoshua were doing wasn't for the Kingdom. People act like God and His Son were working at McDonalds. Yes the Father and Son work on the Sabbath but its not the kind of work we do when we go to our secular job but rather it is work to heal, restore and execute justice and ultimately advance their Kingdom. People ignorantly think that Jehoshua was breaking the Sabbath by healing the man at the Bethesda pool. They think this because they fail to study for themselves and learn what the heart of Sabbath keeping is. Isaiah 56-58 detail how Jehovah wants us to keep the Sabbath: Isaiah 56:1-3 (ASV) 1Thus saith Jehovah, Keep ye justice, and do righteousness; for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed.2Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that holdeth it fast; that keepeth the sabbath from profaning it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. The heart of Sabbath keeping is to do justice and righteousness. The man who does this as part of his Sabbath keeping is blessed. Ask yourself, did Jehoshua do righteousness by healing the man at Bethesda? Absolutely, because everything Jehoshua did during His ministry was righteous and pure. In order to refute the false accusations of Sunday keepers who side with the Pharisees in saying that Jehoshua broke the Sabbath, here is a verse destroys their ideas: Matthew 12:12 (ASV) 12How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the sabbath days This is another passage that we will touch on later. This verse is in context of the Pharisees asking Jehoshua if it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath day? Jehoshua's answer in verse 12 destroys the false teaching that Jehoshua broke the Sabbath by healing the man at the Bethesda pool. Jehoshua without any confusion says it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day and healing is one of the good things that are lawful. Many Sunday keepers even go so far as to say it is a sin to keep the Sabbath yet the Messiah said it is lawful to good on the Sabbath day. Ask yourself this, is it good to read the bible, pray, fellowship, worship in song and do works of mercy to others? If your answer is yes then these are things that can rightfully be done on the Sabbath in the eyes of Jehovah God. Matthew 12:1-12 1At that season Jesus went on the sabbath day through the grainfields; and his disciples were hungry and began to pluck ears and to eat.2But the Pharisees, when they saw it, said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which it is not lawful to do upon the sabbath.3But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him;4how he entered into the house of God, and ate the showbread, which it was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them that were with him, but only for the priests?5Or have ye not read in the law, that on the sabbath day the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are guiltless?6But I say unto you, that one greater than the temple is here.7But if ye had known what this meaneth, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.8For the Son of man is lord of the sabbath.9And he departed thence, and went into their synagogue:10and behold, a man having a withered hand. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? that they might accuse him.11And he said unto them, What man shall there be of you, that shall have one sheep, and if this fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out?12How much then is a man of more value than a sheep! Wherefore it is lawful to do good on the sabbath day. This is another passage that many use to do away with Sabbath keeping. Jehoshua and His disciples were going through a field on the Sabbath day and plucked ears of corn to eat. The Pharisees accused them of breaking the Sabbath however Jehovah's law permitted handpicking food from a neighbor's field but not harvesting with a sickle or container (Deuteronomy 23:24-25). The Pharisees tried to impose their man mad traditions on Jehoshua. The Son of God referenced David and His men eating the shewbread from the holy place in the temple. According to the law the shewbread was only for the Levitical priests. Many anti-Sabbatarians fail to go back to the story regarding the time when David did this. David and his men didn't just go into the temple randomly and eat the shewbread, they actually had permission from the priest after proving they had been pure from sexual relations for a number of days. Below is the description of what took place with David eating the shewbread: 1 Samuel 21:1-6 (ASV) 1Then came David to Nob to Ahimelech the priest: and Ahimelech came to meet David trembling, and said unto him, Why art thou alone, and no man with thee?2And David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The king hath commanded me a business, and hath said unto me, Let no man know anything of the business whereabout I send thee, and what I have commanded thee: and I have appointed the young men to such and such a place.3Now therefore what is under thy hand? give me five loaves of bread in my hand, or whatsoever there is present.4And the priest answered David, and said, There is no common bread under my hand, but there is holy bread; if only the young men have kept themselves from women.5And David answered the priest, and said unto him, Of a truth women have been kept from us about these three days; when I came out, the vessels of the young men were holy, though it was but a common journey; how much more then to-day shall their vessels be holy?6So the priest gave him holy [bread]; for there was no bread there but the showbread, that was taken from before Jehovah, to put hot bread in the day when it was taken away. David asked the priest for the loaves or bread that were in his hand. The priest told David that the bread he had was hallowed bread (the shewbread). The priest asked David if he and his men had kept himself from women. David responded that he and his men had been kept from women for three days thereby their vessels (bodies) were holy. Notice David's words in verse 5, he says that even though the bread was sanctified it was in a manner common. David was comparing his men being holy with the holiness of the shewbread. The inference is obvious that David was esteeming the need of his men who were holy above the holiness of the shewbread. He was stating that the need of man supersedes ceremonial law. David was stating that man was better (greater) than bread even the sanctified shewbread. This would be restated by Jehoshua in his dialogue with the Pharisees here in Matthew 12. Even at this, David had to show the priest that he and his men had been pure from women for a number of days. What David was asking the priest to do was not a light thing. Those who read Matthew 12 without going back to 1 Samuel 21 miss out on the moral of the story of Jehoshua and His disciples plucking corn on the Sabbath day. Those who read Matthew 12 without the context of 1 Samuel 21 could mistakenly think that Jehoshua was making light of the importance of the Sabbath. Actually, the opposite is true as Jehoshua was magnifying the true heart of Sabbath keeping. The Priest gave David the holy bread that was put before Jehovah in the holy place of the heavenly sanctuary. Now back to Matthew 12, in verse 5 Jehoshua then mentions the Levitical priests in how they worked on the Sabbath day and yet were guiltless. We as kings and priests (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:5-6) are also allowed to work on the Sabbath day yet only for the service of Jehovah's temple which in the new covenant is the Church. The Levitical priests did no secular work but rather work of a divine service in the earthly tabernacle and temple. In verse 7 of Matthew 12, Jehoshua makes it clear that mercy trumps sacrifice showing that the Sabbath was intended as a day of healing and justice not stringent unreasonable legalisms. In verse 8, Jehoshua says that He is Lord of the Sabbath. This doesn't mean that Jehoshua is the one that instituted the Sabbath as some think but rather that He has authority over the Sabbath day and how it is to be kept. In verse 10 of Matthew 12, the Pharisees ask Jehoshua if it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath day. Their intention was to trap Him in His words. In verses 11 and 12 Jehoshua gives an answer that exposes the hypocrisy of the Pharisees as they would not hesitate to pull their sheep out of a pit on the Sabbath because it directly benefits them monetarily. Jehoshua says that man is of far more value and that to heal man on the Sabbath day is lawful. Jehoshua then concludes it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day. Never once in His dialogue with the Pharisees does Jehoshua do away with the Sabbath day. John 5:15-21 (ASV) 15The man went away, and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him whole.16And for this cause the Jews persecuted Jesus, because he did these things on the sabbath.17But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh even until now, and I work.18For this cause therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only brake the sabbath, but also called God his own Father, making himself equal with God.19Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father doing: for what things soever he doeth, these the Son also doeth in like manner.20For the Father loveth the Son, and showeth him all things that himself doeth: and greater works than these will he show him, that ye may marvel.21For as the Father raiseth the dead and giveth them life, even so the Son also giveth life to whom he will. This is the same man that was healed at the Bethesda pool. In verse 16, the Jews persecuted Jehoshua because He did this healing on the Sabbath day. Verse 17 is one of those verses that anti-Sabbatarians use to disregard Sabbath keeping. Jehoshua stated that His Father works as does He (Jehoshua) on the Sabbath day. This is actually one of the silliest attempts by anti-Sabbatarians to dismiss the continuing validity of the Sabbath. Clearly Jehoshua is not talking about secular work, the work that the Father and Him do is not going to McDonalds or 7 Eleven for a swing shift or working at a law firm. The work that the Father and Son do is described by the Son in the verses following verse 17. In verse 19, Jehoshua states that whatever He does has been shown to Him by the Father. In verse 20 Jehoshua says that they will see even greater works than what just happened at the Bethesda pool and these works will be from the Father doing them through the Son of God. One of these greater works is mentioned in verse 21 and that is the raising of the dead. Jehoshua raised Lazarus and others from the dead and ultimately will raise all humans from the dead at the last day. So this is the type of work done by the Father and Son on the Sabbath day not secular work. In verse 18 of John chapter 5, the Jews sought to kill Jehoshua for breaking the Sabbath and calling God His Father. Many use this verse as a proof against the Sabbath because they say that John even stated Jehoshua broke the Sabbath. John is simply stating the perspective of the Jews not agreeing with them. Remember, in Matthew 12:12 Jehoshua said it was lawful to do good on the Sabbath day, so He Himself said He did not break it by healing the man with the withered hand. Also the accusation of Jehoshua making Himself eqaul with God was a false accusation as Phillipians 2:5-11 attests as well as His own words in John 14:28: "Ye heard how I said to you, I go away, and I come unto you. If ye loved me, ye would have rejoiced, because I go unto the Father: for the Father is greater than I." The Sonship of Jehoshua is the foundation of the new testament Church. Once we leave this pillar of truth behind then we as a Church have our foundation built on quicksand. Most Churches today almost ignore the Sonship of Jehoshua or minimize it to a great degree.
They have substituted the Sonship of Jehoshua for Him being God Almighty. The results of this have been devastating to mainstream Christianity as they have all but lost their witness due to themselves being confused on the very basics and foundation of the doctrine of Messiah. In this study we will show that the Sonship of Jehoshua is an essential truth that absolutely cannot be minimized in any way shape or form. Those that do so have the spirit of anti-Messiah. This will be shown from scripture as it not just a ransom accusation. Jehoshua said that there was only one Church that would prevail over the gates of hell and that was the Church that was built on the rock that Jehoshua is the Messiah and the Son of the living God. Its no wonder that the trinitarian denominations are in major apostasy and in league with the ecumenical movement led by the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. In this study we will see how exactly Jehoshua is the Son of God as there are many theories on how Jehoshua is the Son of God and when He became the Son of God. The truth of what makes Jehoshua the Son of God is actually very simple once we interpret the "begotten" passages within their context. Within Christendom, there are various theories on the Sonship of Jehoshua, here is a list of the prominent ones. Creedal (historic, RCC, EO, traditional Protestant) Trinitarianism = eternal generation Sonship. Jehoshua is eternally begotten from the Father and shares eternally in His substance and has always existed. Modern Evangelical Trinitarianism, Incarnational Sonship = Jehoshua was the Word i.e. God (second person of the trinity but not the Son) before His incarnation and then agreed to play the role as Son to God the Father by being incarnated into Mary's womb. Arian/Semi Arian (Jehovah Witnesses/SDA Historic/Yahweh Restoration Ministries), begotten at a certain point in eternity Sonship = Arians claim Jehoshua was begotten out of nothing whereas Semi Arians claim He was begotten out of the Father's substance before the world began. Biblical Unitarian, incarnational Sonship = unlike Modern Evangelicals, biblical unitarians deny the Son's preexistence therefore Jehoshua had his beginning in the womb of Mary. Adoptionists, begotten Sonship at baptism and/or resurrection = adoptionists deny the virgin birth and therefore incarnational Sonship. They believe that Jehoshua was either begotten at His baptism or resurrection or both. Its noteworthy that the earliest Christians (Ebionites) had this view. Tri theists/Binitarian, SDA GC, Armstrong Churches of God and its offshoots = they generally believe in incarnational Sonship but some will say that the Father and Jesus had a Father-Son relationship going back to eternity but deny Jehoshua was begotten before He came into this world. These are the general veiws and of course there are variations of them but i just wanted to give a brief synopsis of the various Sonship beliefs. In this study we will see how exactly Jehoshua is the Son of God especially when He was begotten as God's Son as that ultimately determines the nature of His Sonship. Before we start, its important to understand that as a whole the nation of Israel was adopted as sons and daughters of God (Exodus 4:22), so any Israelite could rightfully claim to be a son or daughter of God. So in this sense, Jehoshua was God's son by just being an Israelite. However, Jehoshua's claim of Sonship obviously supersedes the general concept of Israel as a nation being the adopted sons of God. We can see this in His heated exchanges with the Jewish religious leaders. Lets begin this journey and determine exactly how Jehoshua is the Son of God and when He was begotten as God's Son. The truth is actually rather easy if we use the begotten passages in context and also avoid speculation based on unclear verses. 1 Peter 1:18-21 (ASV) 18knowing that ye were redeemed, not with corruptible things, with silver or gold, from your vain manner of life handed down from your fathers;19but with precious blood, as of a lamb without spot, [even the blood] of Christ:20who was foreknown indeed before the foundation of the world, but was manifested at the end of times for your sake,21who through him are believers in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; so that your faith and hope might be in God. Jehoshua was foreknown and predestined before the foundation of the world to be the Messiah of Jehovah and Son of Jehovah. This is important to understand as we go through some of the texts in Jehoshua's early life before He was baptized. Isaiah 53:1-2 (ASV) 1Who hath believed our message? and to whom hath the arm of Jehovah been revealed?2For he grew up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. Even though Jehoshua wouldn't start His ministry until 30 years of age, its clear that Jehovah God was watching over Him from His birth. Jehovah would watch Jehoshua grow up from a infant (tender plant, root) until the time came when He was to be anointed for the work of the ministry. Like the apostle Paul and the prophets of old, Jehoshua was separated (set apart) for the work of the ministry from His mothers womb (Jeremiah 1:1-5; Galatians 1:15). Jehovah God had his hand over Jehoshua from the beginning of His life in the womb of Mary all the way to the end of it and of course beyond as they now sit together in the heavenly places (Hebrews 8:1-2). Let's go to one of the foundational verses in scripture that prophesies of the Sonship of the Messiah: 2 Samuel 7:12-16 (ASV) 12When thy days are fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, that shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom.13He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever.14I will be his father, and he shall be my son: if he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men;15but my lovingkindness shall not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee.16And thy house and thy kingdom shall be made sure for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever. This is Nathan the prophet speaking on behalf of Jehovah to king David. In verse 14, Jehovah tells David that his seed (sperm) that proceeds out of his bowels (male sexual organs) will be a son to him and He (Jehovah) will be His Father. So here in 2 Samuel chapter 7, the Sonship of the future Messiah is connected to being the seed of David. "I will be his father, and he shall be my son" this denotes a legal relationship applicable to every Davidic king but uniquely descriptive of Jehoshua as the ultimate fulfillment of this promise made to David by Jehovah God. Jehoshua was the firstborn, by way of resurrection, Son of God and the appointed Son of man. While there were other righteous Davidic kings, every single of them died and did not fulfill the promise that one of David's seed (offspring) would establish the throne and Kingdom of Israel forever. Jehoshua died but then was resurrected to eternal life and was enthroned on the throne of David in heaven the new Jerusalem (Hebrews 1:8-9). The above passage is important to remember as we proceed in this study especially when we get to the heated dialogues between Jehoshua and the pharisees and saducees. Let's go to the first verse that clearly uses begotten language in relation to the Messiah. Psalm 2:5-8 (ASV) 5Then will he speak unto them in his wrath, And vex them in his sore displeasure:6Yet I have set my king Upon my holy hill of Zion.7I will tell of the decree: Jehovah said unto me, Thou art my son; This day have I begotten thee. 8Ask of me, and I will give [thee] the nations for thine inheritance, And the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. "Begotten" not literal birth but technical language of adoption, used especially for enthronement of a king (Psalm 89:26-28; 2 Samuel 7:14). Ultimately it refers to the Messiah's resurrection and ascension when He was enthroned/inaugurated as Priest-King in heaven (Hebrews 1:5, 8-9; Hebrews 5:5). It also refers to the baptism of Jehoshua as Psalm 2:7 was the original quotation in the Luke and Matthew baptism accounts according to older manuscripts. It was at Jehoshua's baptism that He was anointed as the King of Israel. Nathanael confesses Jehoshua's Kingship just two days after His baptism (John 1:49). The word begotten is rendered from the Hebrew word "yalad" which has the literal meaning of birth and conception but also has the figurative meaning "to declare pedigrees". This is exactly what took place in Psalm 2:7, Jehovah is declaring the pedigree of Jehoshua as His Son and King. "I will declare the decree" this is the Messiah stating what Jehovah said to Him at His anointing (baptism) and enthronement (ascension). Jehovah is declaring a statute that Jehoshua is His Son and on this day (anointing/enthronement) He is begetting i.e. declaring the pedigree of Jehoshua as His anointed King and adopted covenant Son. While many use Psalm 2:7 to promote the virgin birth doctrine or some type of begetting in eternity, the context of Psalm 2 refutes this explicitly. The first few verses are about the persecution of Jehovah's anointed by the rulers of the earth. This Psalm was composes by David and likely written towards end of his life when his son Solomon was enthroned as king. In ancient times, change of rulers meant special danger of revolts among the subject nations. This Psalm can apply to any of the Davidic kings but ultimately it is fulfilled in Jehoshua Messiah. The apostles applied the first 3 verses to the persecution of Jehoshua by Herod, Pontius Pilate, the Gentiles and the people of Israel. Verses 4 and 5 speak of Jehovah God's mocking of the rulers of the earth for thinking they have defeated His anointed one. This must have been especially true when Jehoshua was dead in the grave. However verse 6 shows the ultimate victory of Jehovah God as He has set His Messiah on the throne as King upon Mount Zion which is Jehovah's holy hill. Chronologically speaking, this obviously took place at the Messiah's ascension into heaven and His being set at the right hand of God enthroned as King (Heb 1:8-9). This enthronement took place in the heavenly Zion, which is the city of the living God (Heb 12:22-23). Again, Psalm 2 starts the narrative during the adult life of Jehovah's anointed one not in eternity or during the time when the anointed one is in His mothers womb. The progression of Psalm 2 then goes from the anointed one's persecution to His installment as the King of Israel. This is what leads to verse 7 and the phrase "I will tell the decree: Jehovah hath said unto me, thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee" It is a declaration of the Messiah's pedigree (yalad, begotten) as Jehovah's Son and King. This understanding perfectly fits the context as this declaration by Jehovah God comes right after He has set His King on mount Zion. The verses after this declaration show also that this begetting has nothing to do with literal birth but rather being enthroned and receiving a Kingdom. The last verses speak to the second advent of Jehoshua as He destroys all nations with a rod of iron. I believe i have shown from the context of Psalm 2 that the begetting described has nothing to do with a literal begetting whether the virgin birth or an eternal begetting. Lets now look at Proverbs 8:22-31 as this is a passage often used for those who teach a eternal begetting for Jehoshua. This passage is used by both classic trinitarians and arian/semi Arians. Proverbs 8:22-31 (ASV) 22Jehovah possessed me in the beginning of his way, Before his works of old. 23I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, Before the earth was.24When there were no depths, I was brought forth, When there were no fountains abounding with water.25Before the mountains were settled, Before the hills was I brought forth;26While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, Nor the beginning of the dust of the world.27When he established the heavens, I was there: When he set a circle upon the face of the deep,28When he made firm the skies above, When the fountains of the deep became strong,29When he gave to the sea its bound, That the waters should not transgress his commandment, When he marked out the foundations of the earth;30Then I was by him, [as] a master workman; And I was daily [his] delight, Rejoicing always before him,31Rejoicing in his habitable earth; And my delight was with the sons of men. The above passage was attributed to the preexistent Son of God by the early Church fathers and by many today in Christendom. This is one of the strongest texts for the preexistence of the Messiah and also that He was begotten before the world began. If it can be proved that the Messiah was preexistent then this verse would prove indeed that He was begotten before the world began. Many modern Evangelical trinitarians deny this passage is about the Messiah as they know that it implies that at some point before creation Jehoshua was begotten from God's substance. Classic trinitarians have no problem with this verse as they use it to prove eternal generation. Unitarians and adoptionists say this verse is poetic and is not about a literal being who was begotten by Jehovah before the world began. If we can find a new testament verse that reinforces Proverbs 8:22-31 is about the preexistent Son being begotten then we have just identified how and when Jehoshua became the Son of God. Lets first look at Colossians 1:15 which seems to be the same thing mentioned in Proverbs 8. Colossians 1:15-17 (ASV) 15who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation;16for in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and unto him;17and he is before all things, and in him all things consist. On the face of it this passage seems to reaffirm Proverbs 8:22-31, however a deeper look into this verse may not do so. Jehoshua is the image of the invisible God. This is a post resurrection statement regarding the glorified Messiah who is now the express image of God being of His very substance. I believe this was to a great degree true during His earthly ministry as Jehoshua Himself said that if you have seen me you have seen the Father. Not too mention that the Father literally dwelt in Him from the time He was baptized. Image also has to do with characteristics not just visual. From a characteristic standpoint Jehoshua was fully the image of God during His earthly ministry. From a visual standpoint, Jehoshua being the image of God applies to His glorified state post resurrection and ascension. Of course if Jehoshua was preexistent then this statement also applies to His pre-incarnate state. Lets go to the second part of verse 15: "the firstborn of all creation" On the face of it this looks like its the same thing as what Proverbs 8:22-31 is telling us. However a closer look gives us the true meaning. If it wasn't for the usages of firstborn in the old testament for the nation of Israel and king David, then those who support Jehoshua being begotten before the world began would be just in using this passage to prove their doctrine. Those trinitarians who don't believe in eternal generation deny that the term "firstborn" is about a literal begetting of the Son of God before the world began. So they would be in agreement with unitarians and adoptionists in that "firstborn" in this context is not about literal birth but rather to the divine privileges and rights of the firstborn son, like the Davidic reference in Psalm 89:27. Firstborn denotes preeminence or the Son of inheritance. Psalm 89:27 (ASV) 27 I also will make him my first-born, The highest of the kings of the earth. This is coronation language much like Psalm 2:7. Notice Jehovah making David (and His kingly seed) His firstborn is connected with anointing and/or enthroning them as king of Israel thereby making them higher than all other kings on the earth. This was ultimately fulfilled in Jehoshua who became not only higher than all kings on the earth but also higher than all thrones, prinicipalities and powers in heaven excepting God the Father of course. Remember the context of Colossians 1:15 has to do with the resurrection as verse 18 proves this: "And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence." Verse 18 identifies exactly how Jehoshua is the firstborn Son. It is His being the firstborn from the dead that gives Him the title of "firstborn". Paul connects Jehoshua's resurrection with the reason He (Jehoshua) has preeminence i.e firstborn over all creation. Firstborn designates inheritance. Jehoshua is the firstborn by way of being the first human being resurrected to eternal life thereby inheriting what was promised to Him. "Firstborn of all creation" Some say that this is a separate idea from what Paul is talking about in verse 18 and that its speaking of Jehoshua being begotten before the world began and being the agent by whom all things were created. Let's look at another verse that connects Jehoshua's resurrection with Him being the firstborn. Revelation 1:5-6 (KJB) 5and from Jehoshua Messiah, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loveth us, and loosed us from our sins by his blood;6and he made us to be a kingdom, to be priests unto his God and Father; to him be the glory and the dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Jehoshua here is called the firstborn in relation to His resurrection and Him being the ruler of the kings of the earth. This is a direct reference to Psalm 89:27 and it is the resurrection in view not some eternal begetting before the world began. Also noteworthy is that it is Jehoshua's death and resurrection that made the church a Kingdom of priests. This shows that Jehoshua's resurrection and ascension began a new order of things. This is important to grasp as we go back to Colossians 1:15-16. As stated before, many connect Jehoshua being the firstborn of all creation with His being begotten before the world began and being the agent of creation. The trinitarians who deny eternal begetting just say that "firstborn" here means He is the chief ruler of creation of course still posit that He is the agent of creation. Verse 16 is also key in understanding the context of verse 15: "for in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and unto him" On the surface this does indeed read like Jehoshua created all things but when compared with other verses we can glean another meaning from this verse. As mentioned Revelation 1:5-6 connected Jehoshua being the firstborn from the dead with His followers being made a Kingdom of priests. This shows that there was a beginning of a new Kingdom at Jehoshua's ascension into heaven. Again, the resurrection and ascension are the events that brought this Kingdom into being. We can understand this as related to the visible thrones and dominions, powers and principalities on earth created in Jehoshua and through and unto Him. We as believers are kings and priests and reign with the Messiah (1 Peter 2:9). We sit on spiritual thrones here on earth as our Lord sits on the throne of David in heaven (Acts 2:29-36). Ephesians 2:4-6 (ASV) 4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved),6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus: As Jehoshua was resurrected to sit in the heavenly places (most holy place) we also are spiritually resurrected to sit with Him in the holy of holies. He sits on the throne of David as King of Israel i.e. the Church thereby we sit with Him as anointed kings and priests. Hebrews chapter 1 is another revealing passage connecting Jehoshua's resurrection with Him being the firstbegotten (firstborn). Let's look at Hebrews 1: 5For 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?6And when he again bringeth in the firstborn into the world he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.7And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels winds, And his ministers a flame a fire:8but of the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever; And the sceptre of uprightness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.9Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; Therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee With the oil of gladness above thy fellows. The begetting of the Son in verse 5 is directly tied to His baptism and also His resurrection. Jehoshua is the called the firstborn in verse 6 and again it is connected with the events subsequent to the resurrection. The phrase "world" here in verse 6 is not speaking of this literal earth but rather heaven. The context is clear that this has nothing to do with the birth of Jehoshua but rather His exaltation. Also, the angels of God did not worship Jehoshua when He was born or even after but they did indeed worship Him after His ascension into heaven as Revelation 5 clearly shows: 11And I saw, and I heard a voice of many angels round about the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;12saying with a great voice, Worthy is the Lamb that hath been slain to receive the power, and riches, and wisdom, and might and honor, and glory, and blessing.13And every created thing which is in the heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and on the sea, and all things are in them, heard I saying, Unto him that sitteth on the throne, and unto the Lamb, [be] the blessing, and the honor, and the glory, and the dominion, for ever and ever.14And the four living creatures said, Amen. And the elders fell down and worshipped. The multitude of angels give worship to the resurrected Lamb of God in the heavenly sanctuary. Notice what they say in verse 12 in that because of His victory over death He now will receive riches, honor, wisdom, glory, might, blessing and power. This is spoken as if its the first time Jehoshua is receiving these things. Back to Hebrews 1, verses 8 and 9 show us the coronation of Jehoshua and Him being given the throne of David and a Kingdom in which He will rule with a sceptre of righteousness. This is the glory, power, riches and honor spoken about in Revelation 5. Again, this undoubtedly shows that the title "firstborn" when used of Jehoshua has to do with His resurrection from the dead which led to His ascension into heaven and exaltation as King higher than the rulers of the earth. Back to Colossians 1:16 "for in him were all things created, in the heavens and upon the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and unto him" The thrones, principalities, powers and dominions in heaven (visible and invisible) were created in Jehoshua in the sense of being appointed the heir of all things. Hebrews 1 verse 2 goes perfectly with this concept: "hath at the end of these days spoken unto us in his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the worlds" The phrase "worlds" should be rendered as "ages" as aion (ages) is the Greek word that was rendered as worlds. The ages were designed in Jehoshua, meaning with Him in intention because He was appointer the heir of all things before the foundation of the world (1 Peter 1:18-21). Peter the apostle states that upon Jehoshua's ascension into heaven the angels were made subject unto Him: 1 Peter 3:21-22 (KJV) 21The 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:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. "Angels, authorities and powers" were made subject unto Jehoshua upon His ascension into heaven. It coincided with the Son of God sitting on the throne of David on the right hand of God. In Colossians 1:16 it also speaks of authorities and powers being created in Jehoshua and through Jehoshua and unto Jehoshua. It never says that Jehoshua literally created the angels, authorities and powers before the world began but rather they were created in Him and unto Him by way of Jehoshua's resurrection from the dead which gave Him the preeminence. Remember, Peter stated that it was by way of Jehoshua's resurrection and ascension that these angels, authorities and powers were made subject unto Him. Paul in Colossians 1:16 is not speaking of a Genesis creation but rather the new creation brought about by the resurrection of the firstborn Son from the dead. The things mentioned in Colossians 1:16 as being created in Jehoshua are not the earth, sky, sun and moon but rather thrones and dominions. These thrones and dominions are created in Jehoshua as the Father predestined His Son to be the ruler and head of these thrones and dominions. They are also created through and unto Him by way of the Messiah's resurrection and ascension being made subject (created through and unto) unto Him ad He sat down on the right hand of God being exalted. Hebrews 1 shows us the enthronement of the Messiah as King of Israel (the Church) sitting down on the right hand of God and Peter says this is when the angels, authorities and powers were made subject unto Him. |
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