Jehoshua is on the throne of David in New Jerusalem and He is the King of a New Israel
My study called Amillennialism reformed part 1
Amillennialism like many other doctrines has evolved over time and today many Amillennialists teach that the reign of Messiah with the saints is a heavenly one not an earthly one (Rev 20:4). This is not the traditional view of Amillennialism. The traditional view of Amillennialism is that the first resurrection of the saints is their conversion here on earth and hence they reign with Messiah during the span of the new covenant Church age. The new view among many Amillennialists is that the thousand year reign of the saints with the Messiah takes place once they die and go to heaven as a disembodied soul and hence it is a heavenly reign not an earthly one. So the first resurrection is when the saints die and go to heaven as disembodied souls. As a devout Amillennialist, the new troubles me and brings the Amillennial view into more reproach than it already endures due to accusations of over spiritualization. Is the saints millennial reign with Messiah heavenly or earthly? Is the first resurrection our earthly conversion or is it at death when we go to heaven as a disembodied soul? These are the questions I will find answers for in the scriptures. Suprisingly the answer to the first question is actually very simple, lets go to Revelation 5:9-10: 9And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;10And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. By way of the Messiah's death on the cross we have been made kings and priests. This is a present tense statement that is backed up by Revelation 1:5-6 and 1 Peter 2:9. We are not priests and kings in waiting but we are those offices in reality. Verse 10 seals the deal and says that we shall reign on the earth not heaven. For Amillennialists to keep the integrity of their doctrine they have to go back to the traditional view that the first resurrection is our earthly conversion which results in our reigning with Messiah on this earth now during the millennial age. All Amillennialists agree that the Kingdom of Jehoshua is a present reality, however the new version of Amillennialists posit our reigning with Messiah being in heaven after we die. The problem with the new version of Amillennialism is that nowhere in scripture does it speak of a resurrection taking place right after we die. The only resurrections that are spoken of is our conversion experience i.e. when we are baptized after being given the Holy Spirit and at the last day when our dead bodies are raised to be with Messiah i.e. the second advent. Lets look at Romans 6 for an example of conversion resurrection: 3Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?4Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.5For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:6Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.7For he that is dead is freed from sin.8Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:9Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.10For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.11Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Verses 4, 5, 8, 10 and 11 compare our conversion to Jehoshua's resurrection. Baptism is in view here not dying and flying up to heaven as a disembodied soul. Ephesians 2:5-6 5Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)6And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: The quickening and raising up of the saints here is clearly speaking of our conversion experience as verse 5 says "when we were dead in sins" past tense as our quickening results in being saved. No dead man is saved and no dead man will inherit the Kingdom so this quickening is one that brings salvation in this life, hence we will be resurrected to immortality on the last day. Verse 6 says that as a result of being quickened and saved we are raised up (resurrection), present tense, to sit together with the Son of God in the most holy place. Jehoshua's functions in the holy of holies are the Davidic Kingship and Melchizedek priesthood (Hebrews 1:8-9; Hebrews 5:5). Because of being quickened and made alive we are no longer dead in our sins which shows the above passage to be about a spiritual resurrection in this life i.e. our conversion experience. As a result we are now part of the elect race Royal priesthood that Peter speaks of: 1 Peter 2:9 9But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: This is present tense language used by Peter of the Church. This is only true of those who have been called out of the darkness of Satan's kingdom to the Son of God's as Paul also says: Colossians 1:12-13 12Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son In order to be part of the Royal Priesthood and Kingdom of Jehoshua Messiah you must have been called by the Father into the marvelous light of His beloved Son's Kingdom. Again, conversion is the way into the Priesthood and Kingdom not dying and going to heaven as a disembodied soul. When we were dead in our sins, we were in the darkness of Satan's kingdom. When the Father called us He quickened us saving us by His grace thereby bringing us into the Kingdom of His Son Jehoshua. Lets look at one more passage that proves that the believers conversion experience is likened to new birth or resurrection: John 3:3-8 3Jehoshua answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be begotten from above, he cannot see the kingdom of God.4Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be begotten when he is old? can he enter a second time into his mother`s womb, and be begotten?5 Jehoshua answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be begotten of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God!6That which is begotten of the flesh is flesh; and that which is begotten of the Spirit is spirit.7Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be begotten from above.8The wind bloweth where it will, and thou hearest the voice thereof, but knowest not whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is begotten of the Spirit. Being begotten from above by the Spirit of Jehovah represents a new life i.e. resurrection from being dead in sin to being made alive with Messiah Jehoshua. The Son of God says that this is the only way that we will be able to enter into the Kingdom of God. Being begotten by water represents baptism which is a requirement and commandment. Both of these, being begotten by the Spirit and water, represent our conversion experience which leads to new life in the Son of God. Previously we were dead but now we have entered into eternal life and have passed from death to life: John 5:24 24Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth him that sent me, hath eternal life, and cometh not into judgment, but hath passed out of death into life. Jehoshua says that when we hear (obey) His word (His commandments) and believe that the Father is the only true God (John 17:3) then we have passed out of death (dead in sin) and are now in life i..e rebirth, spiritual resurrection (law written in our hearts). I believe i have showed that our conversion experience is likened to being resurrected albeit spiritually. With the understanding that the first resurrection is our conversion experience and that we reign as kings and priests on earth, lets read Revelation 20:4-6: 4And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.5But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.6Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. If you have the new Amillennial position then you believe the thrones mentioned are in heaven and that is where the saints do the judging. In the older Amillennial view, the thrones are on earth and it is on earth that the saints judge. Since Revelation 5:9-10 says that we as kings and priests reign on the earth, then the older Amillennial view has to be true. The saints are never said to conduct judgment from heavenly thrones so these thrones must be earthly thrones. Since all Amillennialists deny a future earthly millennium then the earthly reign of the saints where they sit on thrones and judge must be in respect to the new covenant age and matters concerning the earthly affairs of the Church which is the Kingdom of the Son of God on earth. Lets look at some texts that support the idea that the Church has been given authority to judge matters concerning the Church during the new covenant age. Matthew 16:13-20 (KJV) 13When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?14And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.15He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?16And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.17And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.18And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.19And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.20Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ. In verse 18, Jehoshua tells Peter that He (Jehoshua) will build the Church on the foundation of His Sonship and Messiahship and that the gates of hell will not prevail against the Church built on this. Verse 19, Jehoshua tells Peter that He will give the Church, that is built upon this rock (Jehoshua's Sonship and Messiahship), the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. This is a reference to the Church's authority as the agent of God's Kingdom. The keys of the Kingdom of heaven are the same as the key of David mentioned by Jehoshua in Revelation 3:7: "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth" The key of David is a key that gives one authority in the government of Israel. The Davidic kings had the government of Israel laid upon their shoulder (Isaiah 9:6) and they entrusted men under them with the keys of the kingdom. Isaiah 22 speaks of such a case: 22And the key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; and he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.23And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a throne of glory to his father`s house. 24And they shall hang upon him all the glory of his father`s house, the offspring and the issue, every small vessel, from the cups even to all the flagons. Eliakim was given the key of the kingdom of David and had authority to shut or open the house (kingdom) of David. Eliakim was given the office of treasurer of the kingdom. The treasurer was the under the authority of the Davidic king and was given authority to judge matters concerning the kingdom. To have the key of David likely meant ability to grant entrance in the kingdom or excommunicating from the kingdom. With this understanding we then know what Jehoshua means in Matthew 16:19 as He is giving the apostles and those who follow after them authority to bind and loose matters concerning the Church on earth. Jehoshua will then bind and loose in heaven, whatever judgments the Church makes. This is basically the same as shutting and opening concerning matters in the Kingdom of David which is headed by the final Davidic King Jehoshua Messiah. The Church is the kingdom of David on earth and Jehoshua is the King of the Kingdom. Jehoshua has given the Church the key of David, which is the authority to judge matters concerning the kingdom even granting entrance or excommunicating. The Church is basically the Eliakim of the new covenant age. Jehoshua has entrusted us to judge righteously concerning His Kingdom even giving us authority to either shut the door of the kingdom or to open it, which especially speaks of Church discipline as Matthew 18 shows: 15Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.16But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.17And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.18Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.19Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.20For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. The text above is primarily about Church discipline as Jehoshua gives the key of David to the Church as He allows them to kick an unrepentant member out of the kingdom of David (the Church). In this case, the Church is shutting the door of the house of David to an unrepentant sinner and no one can open the door to him/her because Jehoshua bound the decision in heaven. Only the Church can then loose that decision, thereby opening the door of the kingdom of David to the repentant brother or sister. Jehoshua then looses that decision in heaven. Verses 19 and 20 show that having the key of David and authority to loose and bind goes beyond Church discipline but even extends to anything we ask in Jehoshua's name. Two or three constitute a legitimate gathering of the Kingdom of David where the Davidic King is then present in their midst. 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 1Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints?2Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?3Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?4If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.5I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?6But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? Here Paul chastises the Corinthians for going to the secular authorities to have their internal disputes resolved. In verse 2, he says the saints will judge the world (unbelievers) in the consummation (last day) so why are they going to these same unbelievers to solve their disputes. Paul tells the Corinthians to set in the Church the least esteemed to be judges of the internal disputes between members of the Church. This shows that all members of the Church are to have part in being judges albiet within the context of the authority they have within a particular Church fellowship. In todays mainstream institutional Church system, members have given up their the right to be judges in matters concerning the kingdom, thereby forfeiting the key of David to be solely held by paid professional clergy. Paul makes it clear that the authority to judge matters concerning the Church is for everyone in the Church provided they are walking uprightly in the faith. Psalm 122:1-9 (ASV) 1I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go unto the house of Jehovah.2Our feet are standing Within thy gates, O Jerusalem,3Jerusalem, that art builded As a city that is compact together;4Whither the tribes go up, even the tribes of Jehovah, [For] an ordinance for Israel, To give thanks unto the name of Jehovah.5For there are set thrones for judgment, The thrones of the house of David.6Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: They shall prosper that love thee.7Peace be within thy walls, And prosperity within thy palaces.8For my brethren and companions` sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee.9For the sake of the house of Jehovah our God I will seek thy good. The song of David can also be looked at as a prophecy of the Kingdom of Jehoshua Messiah, the eternal Davidic King. The house of Jehovah in David's day was the tabernacle and in the new covenant age it is the Church. Jerusalem of David's day is now replaced by New Jerusalem which is the Headqaurters of the Church (Hebrews 12), as the Church is described as being building fitly compacted (framed) as a holy temple of Jehovah (Ephesians 2:19-21). The 12 tribes of Israel in the new covenant are the Church, as James the brother of Jehoshua gave greeting to the Church and referred to them as the 12 tribes scattered abroad. The content of his letter proves indeed that he is writing to members of the body of Messiah i.e the Church not to the literal ethnic tribes of Israel. James 1:1-2 (KJV) 1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.2My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;3Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. Its obvious that James is not addressing literal descendants of the 12 tribes as he refers to them as brethren, meaning fellow believers in Messiah who are in the faith (verse 3). It would be ridiculous to think he is sending this letter to the literal 12 tribes who by this time were dispersed around the world and largely untraceable. It would be a pointless effort by him because he wouldn't even know where or who to send it to since they were literally lost tribes. The context is clear that his letter is addressing those in the Messianic faith. The whole chapter is exhorting them to obey the word of God who begat them through the word. God didn't beget unbelievers through the word thereby eliminating the idea that this letter could be addressed to literal descendants of the 12 tribes of Israel as they were geographically untraceable for the most part and likely many if not most unbelievers of the Messiah either by rejection or by never even hearing of him by this point. With that understood, lets now go back to verses 4 and 5 of Psalm 122: 4Whither the tribes go up, even the tribes of Jehovah, For an ordinance for Israel, To give thanks unto the name of Jehovah.5 For there are set thrones for judgment, The thrones of the house of David. The tribes of Israel which is the new covenant Church go up to give thanks to Jehovah in His temple i.e. the Church which is New Jerusalem. The thrones of judgment are the authority of the King and His servants to lead the people in justice. These are the thrones of the Kingdom of David in which Jehoshua and the Church (12 tribes) sit and judge. The Kingdom of David is a type of the Kingdom of Jehoshua Messiah. Ephesians 2:6 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Messiah Jehoshua. The heavenly places refers to the heavenly sanctuary specifically the holy of holies. Paul says we sit with Jehoshua in the holy of holies. What is Jehoshua's office of function in the holy of holies? He is a King and a Priest there (Heb 1:8-9; 5:5). If we are said to be sitting with Him there, then that means we also are functioning as kings and priests. Scripture confirms that we are already kings and priests by what Messiah did on the cross (1 Peter 2:9; Rev 1:5-6; Rev 5:9-10). By sitting with the Son of God in the heavenly places, we participate with Him in His Kingship and Priesthood. As He physically reigns in heaven, we physically reign here on earth (Rev 5:9-10). As He operates His priesthood in heaven in the heavenly sanctuary, we operate our priesthood here on earth in the Church which is Jehovah's temple here on earth (Isaiah 61). Our union in and through Messiah imply that we already share in Jehoshua's exaltation in heavenly places. This passage in Ephesians proves that we reign now with Messiah not just after He comes back. Jehoshua is the Davidic King and sits on the throne of David in heaven and we as the 12 tribes of Israel sit with Him on His throne in heavenly places thereby we sit on thrones of judgment in the house (kingdom) of David. Luke 22:29-30 (ASV) 29 and I appoint unto you a kingdom, even as my Father appointed unto me,30that ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; and ye shall sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Jehoshua covenanted a Kingdom to the 12 apostles which is the Kingdom of David. The Father appointed this Kingdom to Jehoshua at His baptism and enthroned Him as King of this Kingdom upon His ascension into heaven. This is not a future earthly millennial kingdom but a present tense Kingdom proved by the myriad of scriptures that we are already in the Kingdom of Jehoshua Messiah. Colossians 1:12-13 12Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: You cannot be translated into something that doesn't exist, hence once we were begotten from above by the Spirit we were translated (transferred) from Satan's kingdom to the Kingdom of the Son of God. This Kingdom is an eternal Kingdom which lasts throughout all eternity. The judging of the 12 tribes of Israel is also a statement that must be understood by what James stated in his letter where he identified the 12 tribes of Israel as the Church. Remember, Jehoshua gave the key of David i.e. the key to the kingdom of heaven to the apostles where they had authority to shut or open the house of David (Matthew 16:13-20; Matthew 18:15-21).
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My study on the holy vine of David continued
Lets go back to David's last words as He testifies to Jehovah's faithfulness and covenant mercies. 2 Samuel 23:3-5 3The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spake to me: One that ruleth over men righteously, That ruleth in the fear of God,4He shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, A morning without clouds, When the tender grass springeth out of the earth, Through clear shining after rain.5Verily my house is not so with God; Yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, Ordered in all things, and sure: For it is all my salvation, and all my desire, Although he maketh it not to grow. Verse 5 is a high water mark of David's faith, expressing his understanding that even though his house would fail and falter, the covenant was sure because it would find unconditional fulfillment in the Messiah Jehoshuaz his salvation and all his desire. Verse 4 alludes to the future Messianic King to proceed out of David's loins i.e. Jehoshua. The Son of God is the bright and morning star of Revelation 22:16: "I Jehoshua have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." Verse 4 Jehovah speaking to David calls the future righteous ruler of the house of David "as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds" Jehoshua connects Himself being the offspring of David with being the bright and morning star which echoes what Jehovah told David in 2nd Samuel chapter 23 verse 4. The bright and morning star was the future Messianic Davidic King. Verse 1 of 2nd Samuel reads: "Now these are the last words of David. David the son of Jesse saith, And the man who was raised on high saith, The anointed of the God of Jacob, And the sweet psalmist of Israel" David was raised on high by Jehovah God alluding to his anointing as the king of Israel. The anointing of David is eqauted with him being raised up which should help us understand Acts 13:33: "that God hath fulfilled the same unto our children, in that he raised up Jehoshua; as also it is written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee." The raising up of Jehoshua was a fufillment of prophecy to the children of Israel (Deuteronomy 18:15-21). This raising up is not in reference to the resurrection as that is spoken about in verse 34 of Acts 13. The raising up spoken of in Acts 13:33 is the same as David's raising up which is said to be when he was anointed as king (1 Samuel 16:13). The anointing of David is when he started his ministry even though it would be some time before he was enthroned as king. So the raising up of Jehoshua that fufilled bible prophecy was Him arriving on the scene to preach the gospel of the Kingdom which took place at His baptism. Scripture in the new testament proves this concretely. Concerning Jehoshua being the bright and morning star lets look at what Malachi says: Malachi 4:1-2 (ASV) 1For, behold, the day cometh, it burneth as a furnace; and all the proud, and all that work wickedness, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith Jehovah of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.2But unto you that fear my name shall the sun of righteousness arise with healing in its wings; and ye shall go forth, and gambol as calves of the stall The Davidic king is called the light of the morning and the sun that riseth (2 Sam 23:4) and the bright and morning star (Rev 22:16). Here in Malachi 4:1-2, we see the the prophecy of the second advent of the Davidic Messianic King who is called the sun of righteousness echoing 2 Samuel 23:4 and Revelation 22:16. Now we can properly understand why Jehoshua refers to Himself as the light of the world: John 8:12 12Again therefore Jehoshua spake unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life. Jehoshua was/is the light of the world because He is of the holy vine of David and the ultimate fufillment of the Davidic dynasty as the Davidic kingship in 2 Samuel 23 was called the light of the morning, the sun that riseth, a morning without clouds. The Davidic king is also referred to as the sun of righteousness and the bright and morning star elsewhere. In the book of Revelation Jehoshua promises to overcomers eternal fellowship with Him: Revelation 2:26-28 (KJV) 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:27And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.28And I will give him the morning star. Jehoshua is the morning star as the radiant Davidic King and was prophesied to be the Star that rose out of Israel: Numbers 24:17 17I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not nigh: There shall come forth a Star out of Jacob, And a sceptre shall rise out of Israel, And shall smite through the corners of Moab, And break down all the sons of tumult. "A Star out of Jacob" a prophecy of Messiah, the seed of Abraham, seed of David and the true Israel. This Star is a refrence to the Davidic kingship dynasty and ultimately finds its full fulfillment in Jehoshua. Isaiah 9:1-8 (ASV) 1But there shall be no gloom to her that was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali; but in the latter time hath he made it glorious, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.2The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.3Thou hast multiplied the nation, thou hast increased their joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.4For the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, thou hast broken as in the day of Midian.5For all the armor of the armed man in the tumult, and the garments rolled in blood, shall be for burning, for fuel of fire.6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.7Of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of Jehovah of hosts will perform this.8The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon Israel. Verses 1 and 2, both Israel and the Gentile nations were in total darkness when the Messiah arrived on the scene as the light of the world. They were in the shadow of death but the light of the Davidic Messianic King shone upon them. Verse 6, this speaks of the birth of Jehoshua and the government being upon His shoulder speaks of the prophecy given to Mary that Jehovah God would give her son the throne of his father David and that He would rule as King over Israel forever (Luke 1:32-33). Verse 7, the light is inherently connected to the Davidic throne and it is because Jehoshua is the rightful heir to the eternal Davidic covenant that He is the light of the world. Just as told to Mary, Isaiah prophesies that the Messianic King would rule over the Kingdom forever as the increase of His government and of peace will have no end. While this is a near prophecy about Hezekiah it is completely fulfilled in Jehoshua Messiah. Jehoshua's Davidic Kingdom would be established with justice and judgment and the zeal of Jehovah God His Father would see to it that this would happen. Verse 8, this word from Jehovah about the future Messianic King was a light to Israel. 2 Peter 1:19-21 (ASV) 19And we have the word of prophecy made more sure; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts:20knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of private interpretation.21For no prophecy ever came by the will of man: but men spake from God, being moved by the Holy Spirit. What is this sure word of prophecy? In context, it is in relation to the Davidic dynasty and the promise of a future Messianic King of the seed of David that would bring the covenant to its fullness (2 Samuel 7). How do we know that this passage is regarding the Davidic Messiahship? Because verse 17 of 2 Peter 1 mentions the transfiguration and the acknowledgement by Jehovah that Jehoshua is His beloved Son. The Sonship ofJehoshua is tied to the oath made to David by Jehovah God. Also, in verse 19 Peter refers to Jehoshua as the "day star" which is a Davidic Messianic title. Jehoshua said that if we overcome then we will be given the morning star which is Himself. Jehoshua calls Himself the bright and morning star and the offspring of David in Revelation 22:16. The reference to the day dawn is about Jehoshua's second coming which results in His resurrected brethren receiving the "day star" which is Himself. In verse 20, Peter warns that no prophecy is of private interpretation meaning that we cannot come up with doctrine that disagrees with what the Holy Spirit revealed to the prophets before the coming of Messiah. No matter how many Church councils are held, they cannot alter one bit the spirit of prophecy given to men and women of God of old. The Spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jehoshua Messiah and this testimony is iron clad tied to Him being the seed of David and the ultimate fufillment of the Davidic covenant. The seven ecumenical councils and so called Church fathers came up with private interpretations of scripture that outright contradicted the prophetic Spirit. Peter warned of decievers that would come to do that very thing in verse 16 of this passage: "For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jehoshua Messiah, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty." Peter's testimony of the power and coming of Jehoshua was right in line with the men of old time who prophesied of the coming Davidic King. These men were Moses, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Zechariah, David, Malachi, John the Baptist etc. The common theme that these prophets spoke of concerning the future Messiah that He would be of David's seed (sperm) which indicates His proceeding out of a male descendant of David. The cunningly devised fables would shortly come to the Church after the death of the apostles and were actually already at work during their lifetime. These cunningly devised fables are seen the Church fathers writings and the seven ecumenical Church councils. They are the virgin birth doctrine, the preexistence of the Messiah and ultimately the trinity doctrine. Isaiah 42:1-8 (ASV) 1Behold, my servant, whom I uphold; my chosen, in whom my soul delighteth: I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.2He will not cry, nor lift up his voice, nor cause it to be heard in the street.3A bruised reed will he not break, and a dimly burning wick will he not quench: he will bring forth justice in truth.4He will not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set justice in the earth; and the isles shall wait for his law.5Thus saith God Jehovah, he that created the heavens, and stretched them forth; he that spread abroad the earth and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein:6I, Jehovah, have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thy hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;7to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.8I am Jehovah, that is my name; and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise unto graven images. This passage is a prophecy about Jehovah's servant, the coming Messianic King. In verse 1 we read that Jehovah will put His Spirit upon His servant which took place at Jehoshua's baptism. He will bring judgment to the Gentiles. Verses 2-3 highlight how the Messiah will conduct His ministry, it will be characterized by mercy. Verse 4, the isles a reference to the distant shores, the ends of the earth. The Messiah's mission is universal. "Wait for His law" hope in His teaching or instruction. As a King Jehoshua had a right to institute law as He did in the sermon on the mount. Jehoshua magnified and filled up the law of Jehovah. He brought the grace and truth out of it. Verse 5, Jehovah God is the creator of the heavens and earth and the sovereign One which gives life to mankind. Verse 6, Jehovah is the one who sanctions the ministry of the Messiah. He called Jehoshua in righteousness as it is God who selects people for the work of the ministry as no man takes it unto themself (Heb 5:4) Jehovah God is the one who protected and perserved the Messiah during His earthly ministry and kept Him strong. Jehovah held His hand showing that the Messiah completely relied on God during His ministry work. Jehovah keeping Jehoshua reminds one of Peter's words in 1 Peter l:5 "Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." Just as we are kept by the power of God through faith unto the day when salvation is fully revealed (the resurrection), the same was true of Jehoshua. God the Father preserved Jehoshua by His (God's) power as the Son of God had faith in His Father. This is why we are told in Revelation 14:12, that the true Church has the faith of Jehoshua because we are to have the same faith in God that He had. It was by faith that Jehoshua was righteous as He believed in the promises of God which were eternal life by resurrection and to ascend and sit down on His right hand. It was by Jehoshua's faith that God empowered Him and kept Him (caused Him to persevere) until the day He died on the cross. Back to verse 6 of Isaiah 42, Jehovah says He will give His servant as a covenant of the people which is a reference to the new covenant that Jehoshua made in His blood. Jehovah God says that His Messiah will be a light for the Gentiles. The reference to being a light is in relation to the Davidic covenant as stated in the passages previously discussed. God's Davidic King is a light to Israel and also the world. This was true in the old testament when the Davidic kings walked in righteousness, however it finds its full fulfillment in Jehoshua Messiah. All the references to Jehoshua being the light of the world, the day star, the morning star and the bright and morning star are due to Him being the seed of David and the fufillment of the oath made to David by Jehovah God (2 Samuel 7). Verse 7, again the ministry of Jehoshua is characterized by mercy. Verse 8, the Son of God's mission ultimately aims at the glory of Jehovah God. This verse is falsely used to promote the trinity doctrine, however all glory given to the Messiah ultimately glorifes Jehovah God and no one else especially graven images as the context of this passages dictates. Phillipians 2:9-11 9Wherefore also God highly exalted him, and gave unto him the name which is above every name;10that in the name of Jehoshua every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth,11and that every tongue should confess that Jehoshua Messiah is King, to the glory of God the Father. All glory and worship given to the Messiah as King (not God) is to the glory of God the Father hence God will not share His glory with graven images or false gods but He will give it to His anointed Son who is King not God. Isaiah 49:1-10 (ASV) 1Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye peoples, from far: Jehovah hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name:2and he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me: and he hath made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he kept me close:3and he said unto me, Thou art my servant; Israel, in whom I will be glorified.4But I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nought and vanity; yet surely the justice [due] to me is with Jehovah, and my recompense with my God.5And now saith Jehovah that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, and that Israel be gathered unto him (for I am honorable in the eyes of Jehovah, and my God is become my strength);6yea, he saith, It is too light a thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. 7Thus saith Jehovah, the Redeemer of Israel, [and] his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers: Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall worship; because of Jehovah that is faithful, [even] the Holy One of Israel, who hath chosen thee.8Thus saith Jehovah, In an acceptable time have I answered thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee; and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to raise up the land, to make them inherit the desolate heritages:9saying to them that are bound, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and on all bare heights shall be their pasture.10They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them will lead them, even by springs of water will he guide them. This is another prophetic Messianic passage. Verse 1 is another reference to the isles i.e the distant shores, the extremities of the world. The Messianic promise concerns the whole world. Jehovah God predestined Jehoshua to this purpose before He was born (Jeremiah 1:5; Gal 1:15; 1 Peter 1:19). The Holy Spirit overhshadowing Mary was not about incarnation or virgin birth but rather the seperating of Jehoshua from the womb for the work of the Kingdom ministry for which He had predestined before the foundation of the world. This was also true of David: Psalm 22:9-10 (ASV) 9But thou art he that took me out of the womb; Thou didst make me trust [when I was] upon my mother`s breasts.10I was cast upon thee from the womb; Thou art my God since my mother bare me. Just as Jehoshua was set apart from the womb by Jehovah so was His father David. Verse 2 of Isaiah 49, "mouth like a sharp sword" Jehoshua's words are powerful to judge sin (Rev 19:15). Jehoshua is the word of God and with His word He will dash the nations with a rod of iron when He makes His glorious return to earth. "A polished shaft" a sharpened arrow (Rev 6:2) as Jehoshua is the King who conquers with the bow i.e. His gospel truth and righteousness. Verse 3, Jehoshua is the ideal Israel and restores the people so the servant here cannot be the people. Jehoshua is the fufillment of all God desires in His covenant people for His glory. Verse 4, the Servant of Jehovah expresses the apparent frustration and futility of His mission (Isaiah 53:1-3). Jehoshua entrusted Himself to Jehovah and called Him "my God". The explicitly shows that Jehoshua is not God but rather has a God. Jehoshua committed His work to God (1 Peter 2:23). Verse 5 of Isaiah 49, Jehovah formed Jehoshua from the womb to be His servant. Jehovah God set apart Jehoshua at conception in the womb of Mary to be the Messianic King and to bring Israel back to God. This is similar to other great men of God but of course in a much greater way. There is no need of a virgin birth for Jehoshua just as there was no need for the other great men of God formed by Him from the womb to be virginally begotten. This is why Jehoshua can be the Son of God without being ontologicaly God's offspring, because ultimately Jehovah God formed Him whether it was through a virgin birth or through the natural relations between a man and a woman. Jehovah doesnt need to literally beget someone in order to form them from the womb or be their Father. "Though Israel be not gathered, yet I shall be glorious in the eyes of Jehovah, and my God shall be my strength" Though a good portion of Israel rejected their Messiah, Jehoshua was still glorious in the eyes of Jehovah. This shows an absolute distinction between Jehoshua and Jehovah. Also, Jehoshua calls Jehovah His God who is His stength. Again, this proves that Jehoshua Himself is not God and has a God. His God is our God: John 20:17 Jehoshua saith to her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended unto the Father: but go unto my brethren, and say to them, I ascend unto my Father and your Father, and my God and your God. The words of Jehoshua are absolutely clear, He has a God and His God is our God. Verse 6 of Isaiah 49: "yea, he saith, It is too light a thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth." The Messianic King was to be a light unto the Gentiles. The Identification of Jehoshua being the light is directly connected to Him being the Davidic King. This is not only true of Jehoshua but the Davidic Kingship in general as many believe Hezekiah is in immediate veiw of this prophecy. Most of the Davidic prophecies have a near and far view. The near view is usually about the present Davidic king or one in the very near future however they all find their final fufillment in Jehoshua Messiah. There are Davidic prophecies that can only be about Jehoshua but most do have the near/far view. Hezekiah was to be a light unto the Gentiles just like all the Davidic kings were supposed to be. Ultimately it was Jehoshua that fulfilled this prophecy in full. We see a perfect example of the Davidic king being a light to the Gentiles in the story of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba: 1 Kings 10:1-9 (ASV) 1And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of Jehovah, she came to prove him with hard questions.2And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones; and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart.3And Solomon told her all her questions: there was not anything hid from the king which he told her not.4And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, and the house that he had built,5and the food of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of Jehovah; there was no more spirit in her.6And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thine acts, and of thy wisdom.7Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me; thy wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame which I heard.8Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, that stand continually before thee, [and] that hear thy wisdom.9Blessed be Jehovah thy God, who delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel: because Jehovah loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, to do justice and righteousness. Here we see a perfect example of a Davidic king being a light unto the Gentiles as the Queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's fame. Sheba was located 1,000 miles from Jerusalem. This indicates how extensive Solomon's reputation was. Verses 3 and 4, the king of Israel had the wisdom of God and answered the Queen's questions successfully. This reminds us of the passage that says Jehoshua is the wisdom and power of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). The Davidic kings had access to this power and wisdom of God depending upon their faith in Him (God). Verses 6-8, the Queen is amazed at Solomon's wisdom, prosperity and acts, even stating that they exceeded her expectations. Verse 9, "Blessed" synonymous with a different Hebrew word translated "happy" designates the ascription of praise when applied to God. The Queen of Sheba acknowledges that it was Jehovah God that set Solomon on the throne of Israel. The throne of Israel is also called the throne of David (Acts 2:29-36; Psalm 89:36-37; Luke 1:32). The throne of David is also called the throne of Jehovah God (1 Chronicles 29:23). "Because Jehovah loved Israel" The Davidic King is Jehovah God's love gift to His people (Isaiah 9:6). The Davidic king was supposed to bring justice, judgment and righteousness to Israel and even the Gentile nations. The Davidic dynasty is the light of the world and Jehoshua Messiah is the fullness of that light i.e. the bright and morning star and the offspring of David (Revelation 22:16). Isaiah 53
4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Here Isaiah the prophet describes the nature of the Messiah's earthly ministry. This is a perfect example of the Messiah being a servant as He sacrificed Himself for us and took the punishment we deserve for transgressing Jehovah's law. Let's go to second part of verse 7 "being made in the likeness of men" Much is made of this verse by those who believe in the preexistence of the Messiah as they say that He was in the form of God in heaven and then was made in the likeness of men through incarnation. However, there is no need to have this understanding as Jehoshua emptying Himself was not Him setting aside some divine nature or substance but rather simply humbling Himself. The phrase "being made in the likeness of men" refers to His humanity and that despite being in the form of God, through being indwelt by Him (God), He was truly Human as scripture all over the place confirms. Jehoshua, during His earthly ministry, operated in the power of God (form of), yet He was made as man through birth like everyone else. Galatians 4:4 (KJV) 4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, The phrase "made of a woman" is parallel to being "made in the likeness of men". It was Jehoshua being made of a woman through birth that eqauted Him being made in the likeness of men. The phrase "being made in the likeness of men" cannot possibly refer to Him not really being a man as some teach. Some use this verse to say that Jehoshua's true essence is as a spirit being or God Himself and that He just took on humanity to clothe His natural spirit substance. However, this patently false and even anti-Messiah. Even those of the trinitarian faith acknowledge the absolute humanity of the Messiah. However, they muddy the waters with the unbiblical hypostatic union doctrine. The phrase "being made in the likeness of men" doesn't mean that Jehoshua was not fully a man or that He just took on the appearance of a man. It means that despite doing the works of God, He was made as a man through a woman just like everyone else. 1 John 4:2-3 (KJV) 2Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:3And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. The very definition of the Spirit of anti-Messiah is when people do not confess that Jehoshua was a full flesh and blood human. Those that do confess His humanity have been inspired to do so by the Spirit of God. So when it says Jehoshua was made in the likeness of men, it doesn't mean that He was only like a man but that He indeed was a man and that He was like all other men in that He was fully human. The early Church refuted any ideas that Jehoshua was some hybrid spirit/human being and labeled this as Gnostic. They also refuted any idea that He was a pure spirit being. Likeness of men doesn't mean Jehoshua wasn't just using humanity to clothe some divine nature but rather that He was like all other men in that He was made of a woman (Galatians 4:4). Even in His resurrected state Jehoshua is still fully human: 1 Timothy 2:5 (KJV) 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; The manhood of Jehoshua is essential to the Messianic/Christian faith. It's His full humanity that qualifies Him to be our High Priest. Even Moses prophesied that the future prophet of Israel would be a man just like him and his Israelite brethren: Deuteronomy 18:15 15Jehovah thy God will raise up unto thee a prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; Hebrews 5:6-7 (KJV) 6 As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.7 Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Jehoshua was a full flesh and blood human during His life on earth, he was not a spirit being who just took on a human nature. Verse 8 of Philippians 2: "and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, yea, the death of the cross." This verse reiterates the humanity of the Messiah which we have already seen from the previous verses. Again, there is no reason to take this emphasis of the Messiah's humanity in combination with humbling Himself as some transition from some divine nature to human nature or being divine and then adding a human nature. Also, Jehoshua being spirit and then just appearing as a man but not really being one is also out of the question. Jehoshua being found as a man refers to His absolute humanity and that when people came across Him during His ministry they found indeed that He was a man. As per the context of this passage in Philippians 2, Jehoshua's humility is highlighted and His humility resulted in Him submitting to the will of the Father. Let's look at Jehoshua's prayer to the Father in the garden of Gethasame: Luke 22:41-42 (ASV) 41And he was parted from them about a stone`s cast; and he kneeled down and prayed,42saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. Jehoshua asked that the cup that He was about to drink (his passion and death on the cross) be taken from Him. However, Messiah concluded His prayer but saying that nevertheless the Father's will be done. Over and over again, the Son of God denies Himself and served others and submitted to the Father's will. Hebrews 12:2 (KJV) 2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Jehoshua endured the cross, meaning that despite the loneliness of it and despite the physical pain of it and the feeling of emotional anguish, He was willing to go through it because of His love for us. He also had the resurrection hope and that the sure mercies of David awaiting Him in the holy of holies in the heavenly sanctuary. Galatians 2:20 (KJV) 20I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Due to the Son of God's love for us, He gave Himself as a ransom. It was love for His brethren that motivated the humility of the Messiah. Galatians 1:3-4 (KJV) 3Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,4Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father Jehoshua selflessly gave Himself for us in order that He would save us from this present evil world. Paul says that this was according to the Father's will. Again, this shows us that the Son was submissive to the Father's will and providing us with salvation now (presently). This shows us the absolute humility of Jehoshua Messiah. Titus 2:13-14 13looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;14who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a people for his own possession, zealous of good works. Jehoshua gave Himself for us that we would be His purchased possession and redeem us from lawlessness (iniquity). Just as Jehoshua walked in good works, He has purified us by His blood in order to be zealous in the good works that the Father has prepared for us before the foundation of the world. Jehoshua was the pattern man and His humility is an example for all of us. His obedience to Father in order to go to the cross should inspire us to follow in His footsteps. Ephesians 5:1-2 (ASV) 1Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children;2and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell. Verse 9 of Philippians 2, "Wherefore also God highly exalted him, and gave unto him the name which is above every name;" Remember that it is God (one being) who exalted the Messiah who is a completely different being. This Messiah is a man approved of God (Acts 2:22) not another God or a part of God in terms of "being". Hebrews 1:8-9 shows that exaltation of Jehoshua on the throne of David upon His ascension into heaven. Acts 2:36: "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jehoshua, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Messiah." It was God who made Jehoshua King and Messiah as these offices were not automatically His but had to be given to Him. The name above all names is "Jehoshua", however it isn't the pronunciation of the name itself that is above all names but rather the character and authority that the name represents. This character and authority that the name represents is the fact that Jehoshua is the only begotten Son of God and King of Israel: Hebrews 1:4-5 4Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.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? Verse 5 quotes two Davidic references (Psalm 2:7 and 2 Samuel 7:14) connecting the Davidic dynasty to the Sonship of Jehoshua as Psalm 2:7 is a royal coronation hymn and 2 Samuel 7:14 states that there is Father-Son covenant relationship with the Davidic king and Jehovah God. The name "Jehoshua" is not in and of itself the name above all names but rather it is the authority that the name represents that makes it a more excellent name than the angels. This authority comes from the fact that Jehoshua is of the seed of David and rightful heir to the throne (Luke 1:32-33). Jehoshua was begotten (anointed) by Jehovah God into Kingship at His baptism as Psalm 2:7 is the original quotation of Jehoshua's baptism accounts. Jehoshua was also begotten (anointed and enthroned) into Kingship at His ascension into heaven (Hebrews 1:8-9). The authority of Jehoshua's name is in His Davidic lineage and adoption by Jehovah God as Son and King. To be anointed as the King of Israel was also the same as being begotten by Jehovah God as His Son. It was an adoption ceremony where Jehovah enthroned His chosen Messiah as the King of the nation of Israel. Jehovah God made a covenant with David's royal seed that they would be His Son and He would be there Father. Jehovah God never made this covenant with an angel. This is the whole purpose of Hebrews 1, which is to show the absolute superiority of the final Davidic King over the angels including Gabriel or Michael. Verses 10 and 11 of Philippians 2: 10 that in the name of Jehoshua every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth,11and that every tongue should confess that Jehoshua Messiah is King, to the glory of God the Father. This will take place at the white throne judgment when Messiah separates the sheep and the goats. In that day ALL will bow to Jehoshua and confess that He is King to the glory of God the Father. This is often used by Trinitarians as another proof text for their doctrine yet there is no need for that understanding because all throughout scripture Jehoshua is identified as the anointed King of Israel, the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant. This is how we should understand the title "Lord" when used of Jehoshua. Psalm 110:1 makes the distinction between Jehovah God (LORD) and the Lord at His right hand. The Lord at Jehovah's right hand is the future Messianic King and the word "Lord" here comes from the Hebrew word "adowne" which is used of human or angel rulers. It is mostly used for human rulers. It is never used as a title for Jehovah God. The fact that all will bow to Jehoshua does not prove He is God as we see a similar scenario in 1 Chronicles 29:20: "And David said to all the assembly, Now bless Jehovah your God. And all the assembly blessed Jehovah, the God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped Jehovah, and the king." Israel worshipped both Jehovah God and His anointed king David. In essence they worshipped the Father and Son, because the Davidic King was in a covenant Father-Son relationship with Jehovah God. Jeremiah 30:8-9 (ASV) 8And it shall come to pass in that day, saith Jehovah of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off thy neck, and will burst thy bonds; and strangers shall no more make him their bondman;9but they shall serve Jehovah their God, and David their king, whom I will raise up unto them. Israel was not only to serve Jehovah God, but also the Royal Davidic seed which is now Jehoshua as He was raised up as its King upon His baptism and then more fully at His ascension into heaven. The Davidic King was Jehovah God's begotten Son by way of anointing so again Israel was to serve the Father (Jehovah God) and His begotten Son (the Davidic King). Jude 4For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord (Jehovah) God, and our Lord (King) Jehoshua Messiah. In the days of the Davidic kings, you could not separate Jehovah from His anointed king in terms of worship and honor. This was true in terms of the righteous kings such as David, Solomon, Hezekiah and Josiah although they weren't perfect. To deny one was to deny the other. Jehovah and His anointed king were one in mind, plan and purpose and in a covenant with each other. This of course is magnified tremendously now that the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic covenant has been enthroned. Here in the book of Jude we see that the false teachers were denying the only Lord God and His Messianic King. To deny one is to deny the other as they (Jehoshua and Jehovah) are in a covenant relationship with each other having its roots in the everlasting Davidic covenant. This is why Jehoshua says: John 5:22-23 22For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. As true as this was for the righteous Davidic kings of the past it is exponentially true of the greater David, Jehoshua Messiah. Also, note that in verse 11 it says that the bowing and confessing as Jehoshua as King is to the glory of God the Father. This is because the Father is the one who made Jehoshua Messiah and King and exalted Him and set Him at His (the Father's) right hand. All things in heaven refer to the angels All things in earth, those all alive at Messiah's second advent All things under the earth, those who are resurrected whether just or unjust. In that day, Jehoshua will be vindicated as God's anointed King and the fulfillment of the oath made to David by Jehovah God. Jehoshua being the King of Israel is what gives Him the right to the titles "Alpha and Omega" and "the first and the last". These are Kingship titles not necessarily having to do with substance or eternal existence. These titles are applied to Jehoshua in Revelation 1:11,17; 22:13. Jehovah God is also called Alpha and Omega and the first and the last in Rev 1:8 & Isaiah 41:4 and 44:6. Isaiah 41:4 4 Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generations from the beginning? I Jehovah the first, and with the last; I am he. 17 verses later Jehovah is identified as the King of Jacob: Isaiah 41 21Produce your cause, saith Jehovah; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. In Isaiah 44, we see a direct connection between the title "first and last" with Jehovah being the King of Israel: 6 Thus saith Jehovah, the King of Israel, and his Redeemer, Jehovah of hosts: I am the first, and I am the last; and besides me there is no God. For Jehovah, the title of first and last refers to His Kingship as well as being the only true God which Jehoshua identifies as the Father alone (John 17:3). For Jehoshua the titles of "Alpha and Omega" and "first and the last" refer to His resurrection from the dead and being given the sure mercies of David as a result. The sure mercies of David are the everlasting covenant made to David's seed, which is the royal thone and the Kingdom of Israel. Both of these (throne and Kingdom) were received by Jehoshua by way of the resurrection and ascension into heaven as proved by Peter (Acts 2:29-36) and the author of Hebrews (verses 5-9). Jehoshua is identified as the firstborn Son of God by way of His being the seed of David (Psalm 89:27) and being made higher than the kings of the earth by way of resurrection as He inherited a heavenly throne which is above all earthly and angelic ones (Colossians 1:15-16). As the Father and Son are one (John 10:30) and both are identified as the King of Israel then it makes sense that they share the aforementioned titles of "Alpha and Omega" and "the first and the last". Revelation 1:5-6 (ASV) 5and from Jesus Christ, 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's title of firstborn is connected to His resurrection from the dead and His Kingship (Psalm.89:27). His Kingship is connected to His Davidic lineage. His resurrection is also connected to Him being the beginning (ruler, chief in rank) of the creation of God (Revelation 3:14). So the titles "Alpha" and "first" are linked to Jehoshua's resurrection which resulted in Him having the preeminence (Col 1:18) and being made ruler of the kings of the earth (Psalm 89:27; Rev 1:6). The resurrection event led to the ascension of the Messiah into heaven to be enthroned as the King of Israel on the throne of David and to receive a Kingdom. So the "Alpha" and "first" titles are directly tied and connected to Jehoshua being the Davidic Israelite King. The titles "Omega" and "last" are also directly tied to Jehoshua's Kingship. The fact that Jehoshua will be the one everyone in heaven, earth and under the earth bows and confesses to, is another reason He is the Omega and the last as He finishes this age with His second advent. His Kingship will be vindicated and His Kingdom consummated on this earth as He introduces the age to come by way of the new heavens and new earth. Jehoshua having the keys of death and hell (the grave) is another reason for the title "Omega" and "last" as He will resurrect the dead and then judge them from His white throne. Jehoshua is the judge of men's eternity, hence He is the "Omega" and "last". Everyone one will go before the judgment seat of the only begotten Son Jehoshua: 2 Corinthians 5:10 (ASV) 10 For we must all be made manifest before the judgment-seat of Christ; that each one may receive the things [done] in the body, according to what he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad. Revelation 22:12-13 (ASV) 12Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to render to each man according as his work is.13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Jehoshua here clearly identifies why He is the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. It is because He has been given authority to judge all men and end this age upon His second advent. Jehovah God appointed Him this right: John 5:21-23 21For as the Father raiseth the dead and giveth them life, even so the Son also giveth life to whom he will.22For neither doth the Father judge any man, but he hath given all judgment unto the Son; 23that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that honoreth not the Son honoreth not the Father that sent him. Basically the titles "Alpha and Omega", first and the last" are titles of supreme authority. For the Father, it is because He is the only true God and King of Israel (Isaiah 44:6). For Jehoshua, it is because He is Jehovah's firstborn Son by way of baptism and resurrection and the final anointed Davidic King of Israel i.e the fulfillment of the everlasting Davidic covenant. This is why they share the same throne because they are both identified as the King of Israel. Jehovah is King of Israel by nature due to Him being the Almighty God and also adopting Israel as His firstborn son establishing a covenant relationship with them (Exodus 4:22). Jehoshua is King of Israel due to being of the seed of David (2 Samuel 7) and rightful heir to the throne from before the foundation of the world (1 Peter 1:18-21). Also, Jehoshua was adopted as God's only begotten Son at His baptism, being anointed as the King of Israel. Jehoshua was then made the firstborn Son at His resurrection being made higher than the kings of the earth. He was then enthroned as the King of Israel at His ascension into heaven (Hebrews 1:8-9). Jehoshua being the Alpha and Omega and first and the last can also be seen in 1st Timothy 6:15-16: 15Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;16Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen. Jehovah God will show in the last day that His only begotten Son is the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev 19:16). |
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