IIT we discuss and study the Bible. I will be using the King James Version and will take the stance of a fundamental literalist, which is a bit redundant, but these days there exist many that claim to be fundamental but reject the literal interpretation of Scripture when they encounter something they don't agree or understand. I am not a Bible scholar, I'm not a pastor, I don't currently attend any denomination's church service. I'm just an anon that really like to study the Bible. Feel free to argue with me, I could be completely wrong and I hope to learn more about the Bible along the way.
I will post below my first study topic and what I have researched about it. Hopefully it will be interesting and somewhat engaging.
/ub/ - Überhengst
Becoming better
File (): 9383C489FF59AA7EC7E7559014DF0B8F-245693.gif (239.9 KB, 840x618, biblereading.gif)
First topic, my study of Revelation and the nature of the beast. I find it fascinating that a large percentage believe that the beast is connected to Rome directly. I can understand why, but it contradicts so much of what else everyone believes about the beast and from my research, I think it contridicts what the Bible is trying to say as well. To being our dive, we need to look at passages about the beast and learn what we are discussing to begin with.
The beast, though first is mentioned in Revelation 11:7, is first described to us in Revelation 13:1 which reads:
1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
Here we get a look into the specifics of the beast, and as we focus on each piece, it becomes clearer what is being told to us, because each part is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. We will begin with "And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns...". Seven heads? Ten horns? What could this mean? Whenever you have a question to what the Bible means, you need to read more and find answers that the Bible will give you. We can find direct reference to these qualities in Revelation 17, which we will come back to in full, but for now we will look specifically in 17:9-13.
9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. 12 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
So the beast is much more complex than just one antichrist. It is seven heads, or mountains, and there are seven kings, of which five are fallen, one is, and one is to come. The beast itself is the eighth king in this organization of kings, of the seven kings, and which will go into perdition, or destruction in other words. The ten horns are another set of kings, but they have no kingdom and thus no power, but will be given that power an hour with the beast. All of which will boost the power of control of the world to this beast. So we learned that the Bible considers the beast to both be this conglomeration of kings to be the beast, and the antichrist himself as the beast. This will be important during further exploration of the passages. Why is this? Because the heads of the beast and the horns are important, but overall subservient to the antichrist and Satan as part of the whole of the beast. This understanding will help the rest of the book make so much more sense, though of course, my understanding is still limited.
Back to that passage in chapter 17, we see something I glanced over and is the point of much confusion, the woman. In the very first verse and on through chapter 17, the focus is less on the beast, but this woman, so let's learn who she is.
1 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: 2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. 3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: 5 And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. 6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. 7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns. 8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. 9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
The beast, though first is mentioned in Revelation 11:7, is first described to us in Revelation 13:1 which reads:
1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. 2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority. 3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.
Here we get a look into the specifics of the beast, and as we focus on each piece, it becomes clearer what is being told to us, because each part is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. We will begin with "And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns...". Seven heads? Ten horns? What could this mean? Whenever you have a question to what the Bible means, you need to read more and find answers that the Bible will give you. We can find direct reference to these qualities in Revelation 17, which we will come back to in full, but for now we will look specifically in 17:9-13.
9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. 12 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
So the beast is much more complex than just one antichrist. It is seven heads, or mountains, and there are seven kings, of which five are fallen, one is, and one is to come. The beast itself is the eighth king in this organization of kings, of the seven kings, and which will go into perdition, or destruction in other words. The ten horns are another set of kings, but they have no kingdom and thus no power, but will be given that power an hour with the beast. All of which will boost the power of control of the world to this beast. So we learned that the Bible considers the beast to both be this conglomeration of kings to be the beast, and the antichrist himself as the beast. This will be important during further exploration of the passages. Why is this? Because the heads of the beast and the horns are important, but overall subservient to the antichrist and Satan as part of the whole of the beast. This understanding will help the rest of the book make so much more sense, though of course, my understanding is still limited.
Back to that passage in chapter 17, we see something I glanced over and is the point of much confusion, the woman. In the very first verse and on through chapter 17, the focus is less on the beast, but this woman, so let's learn who she is.
1 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: 2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. 3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: 5 And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. 6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. 7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns. 8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. 9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth.
This is a lot to unpack already, but let's start taking the pieces and start gaining understanding. First we learn that the woman has committed fornication with the kings of earth and the inhabitants are made drunk with the wine, or the results of it. This means the masses benifit from the existance and meddling the nations of the earth have with interaction with the woman. Next, we see the woman sit on the beast who we learned about before, and the woman is given royalty clothing and royal riches and her cup is full of the abominations she has commited with the kings of earth. On her forehead are the words "MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH". We begin to gain more of a picture of the evils the woman has done as the woman is drunk on the blood of saints and martyrs of Jesus. The angel then says to not marvel because he is going to reveal the mystery of what we are seeing. He first goes into explaining the beast and then go on to explain the connection with the beast and this woman.
13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. 14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. 15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. 16 And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. 17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. 18 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
So we learn from the rest of the chapter more critical things to the identity of the woman, so let's piece it all together. First, the woman is that great city which reigneth over the kings of the earth. She commits fornication with all the nations. She sits on many waters, which is is explained to be peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. Next, God makes the nations give their kingdoms unto the beast to fulfil the prophecies. Next, her head is labeled Mystery, Babylon the Great, according to what is written on her forehead. She sits upon seven mountains
Before I reveal the indentiy I believe this to be, let's go over the popular theory, Rome. Rome does fit a couple of these clues, such as reached far, under seveal tounges, seveal nations did willingly give themselves over to Roman authority, it sits upon seven mountains, they were certainly rich, royal, and they did make martyrs, however it comes up short of all the marks needed. Why would Rome be Babylon the Great? There is no great connection to Babylon and the Roman Empire. No where else in the Bible is any great empire just given the title of Babylon for being big or sinful. Rome was never made God really angry like this woman is clearly making him. Rome never fornicated with other kings, they made those kings their underlings, if not disolved them. And then there are the ten kings given power which hate the woman and burn her. There were internal conflicts with Rome and their power struggles, but ten kings given power by the beast and hating Rome, and then burning it? All the other prophecies such as the living statue and the firey mountain that falls upon the waters and more are not fulfilled literally under Rome. You would have to say a ton of the book is metaphor but the woman is definitely a real city. And to top it off, Rome existed, which stands appart from the beast which the city is on not previously being, not being, and yet is. It isn't adding up.
I believe the city is the rebuilt Jerusalem we have today. First, the nation of Israel that exists today exists after it was previously not a nation, it isn't a nation, and yet is. It itself is a ruler among the kings it fornicates with, five kings that are no more, one that is, and one that will be. The identies of these, I don't have enough evidence of, but Israel is responsible for the destruction of countless prophets of God and believers, who use their power and influence to do it, gaining riches off of their fornication in other nations, never a real part of them, but always profitting. The Jews expand across most all nation, among many tongues and multitudes. They make the kings protect them and give them tribute, having power over them as that city that reigneth over the kings of the earth and God makes them give their lands over to fulfil the prophecy of the antichrist. All it takes is a search to find out that Jerusalem also sits upon seven mountains, at least their claim is such. And the final argument to this identity is the name. Mystery, Babylon the Great. Which city was raided and the people taken into captivity in Babylon? And the jews there formed the Sanhedren, a governing body that would try to keep the law, but just as Jews tend to do, take on religious practices from the area and disobey God. This organization would encounter Jesus in John chapter 3 and would go on along with their Pharasees, conspire the death of Jesus. This organization is in essence, the continuation of Babylon in spirit. We will see later that areas will be called by what they are spiritually as well as physically, such as in Revelation 11:8
8 And 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.
We know Jesus is crucified in Israel, but yet it is not seen as Israel to God. It is a wicked place that is not of His promise, to be destroyed like Sodom and a place of idolatry like Egypt.
13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. 14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. 15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. 16 And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. 17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. 18 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
So we learn from the rest of the chapter more critical things to the identity of the woman, so let's piece it all together. First, the woman is that great city which reigneth over the kings of the earth. She commits fornication with all the nations. She sits on many waters, which is is explained to be peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues. Next, God makes the nations give their kingdoms unto the beast to fulfil the prophecies. Next, her head is labeled Mystery, Babylon the Great, according to what is written on her forehead. She sits upon seven mountains
Before I reveal the indentiy I believe this to be, let's go over the popular theory, Rome. Rome does fit a couple of these clues, such as reached far, under seveal tounges, seveal nations did willingly give themselves over to Roman authority, it sits upon seven mountains, they were certainly rich, royal, and they did make martyrs, however it comes up short of all the marks needed. Why would Rome be Babylon the Great? There is no great connection to Babylon and the Roman Empire. No where else in the Bible is any great empire just given the title of Babylon for being big or sinful. Rome was never made God really angry like this woman is clearly making him. Rome never fornicated with other kings, they made those kings their underlings, if not disolved them. And then there are the ten kings given power which hate the woman and burn her. There were internal conflicts with Rome and their power struggles, but ten kings given power by the beast and hating Rome, and then burning it? All the other prophecies such as the living statue and the firey mountain that falls upon the waters and more are not fulfilled literally under Rome. You would have to say a ton of the book is metaphor but the woman is definitely a real city. And to top it off, Rome existed, which stands appart from the beast which the city is on not previously being, not being, and yet is. It isn't adding up.
I believe the city is the rebuilt Jerusalem we have today. First, the nation of Israel that exists today exists after it was previously not a nation, it isn't a nation, and yet is. It itself is a ruler among the kings it fornicates with, five kings that are no more, one that is, and one that will be. The identies of these, I don't have enough evidence of, but Israel is responsible for the destruction of countless prophets of God and believers, who use their power and influence to do it, gaining riches off of their fornication in other nations, never a real part of them, but always profitting. The Jews expand across most all nation, among many tongues and multitudes. They make the kings protect them and give them tribute, having power over them as that city that reigneth over the kings of the earth and God makes them give their lands over to fulfil the prophecy of the antichrist. All it takes is a search to find out that Jerusalem also sits upon seven mountains, at least their claim is such. And the final argument to this identity is the name. Mystery, Babylon the Great. Which city was raided and the people taken into captivity in Babylon? And the jews there formed the Sanhedren, a governing body that would try to keep the law, but just as Jews tend to do, take on religious practices from the area and disobey God. This organization would encounter Jesus in John chapter 3 and would go on along with their Pharasees, conspire the death of Jesus. This organization is in essence, the continuation of Babylon in spirit. We will see later that areas will be called by what they are spiritually as well as physically, such as in Revelation 11:8
8 And 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.
We know Jesus is crucified in Israel, but yet it is not seen as Israel to God. It is a wicked place that is not of His promise, to be destroyed like Sodom and a place of idolatry like Egypt.
So it is my conclusion that the events of Revelation have not yet transpired and the nature of the beast is made up of Jerusalem as the woman, or the one controlling the beast. The beast is not just the antichrist, but him with more players than what we are lead to believe and in fact many nations. We have been deceived if we are looking for one man to control us, though it is the number of a man that will bind so many.
I will pick back up with more about the fate of the woman that continues in chapter 18 and more lessons to be had in Revelation soon.
I will pick back up with more about the fate of the woman that continues in chapter 18 and more lessons to be had in Revelation soon.
>>3411
I'll be taking a stance of 'oh fug it's a plot and plan'
Starting from the beginning for this.
My misinterpretations.
Starting from the begining.
>tldr I see it more as an instruction manual and plot.
1 Chap
1:1 God (all that is good and right and true) passes a message to Jesus, to show Jesus' servants "things which must shortly come to pass;" ie stuff that will happen and also must be accomplished.
John who got the message saw the angel of verification.
1:2 John recorded it. It's totes true.
1:3 Four things
Read this
They understand the message
Do the message
Do it NOW!
1:4 + 1:5 okay going to shoot a bit in the dark just with the KJB
John (YOU do the four things which is YOU who is also Loyal and Reliable). Is of and from and communicates with the seven churches.
Do that Jesus, and Jesus' seven spirit bros are gonna be cool with (YOU from whenever) ie always applies.
1:5 Jesus Christ IS the witness (of what is good, right, and true) and is very trust worthy. Born of, Risen of, Came from (kinda odd) from THE DEAD. Because Jesus is the prince of the kings of Earth. Can do no wrong the sins are washed away.
[I think this is a passage saying that when truth, righteousness, dies the kings can't be held accountable.]
1:6 Also in case anyone wasn't sure that means (((US))). Forever. In accordance to the highest power ever.
<Okay so the definitions of how this will play out is set A John, The Jesus (truth from the dead), and the (Kings and Priests)
So cloud time.
1:7 Clouds (the PLAN) are going to come (good, bad, whatever). They will poke at the cloud (PLAN) and nothing happens it's above and soft to go right through. (Sort of reminds you of (((some group))). No matter if they throw a fit or moan do it.
1:8 There is the ULTIMATE GOODNESS AND TRUTH AND JUSTICE. Always.
1:9 it's me John who wrote this, writing from Patmos. Also broski I'll be with you for these instructions. This has been a prerecorded message. Also it's really for reals.
1:10 Here's the message. For reals, on a sunday with absolute authority.
1:11 DUDE! Record this. Spam it everywhere who is of likeness of faith!
1:12 Seven Candle Sticks
1:13middle one is kinda like a man, but it's a not-girl. He has clothing to the feet and also a bra.
1:14 White hair, fire passion eyes of living.
1:15 Brass colored feet, cause he still is a candle. A voice the sound of many waters.
<going to real here that's kind of sketchy, but visions are whatever
1:16 He got stars in his right hand. His mouth has a double EDGED SWORD. HMMMM. Also his face was of the sun with Strength.
1:17 Bow most low before God Jesus.
1:18 SUPRISE! It's God Jesus. Really.
1:19 You better write this down for reals.
1:20 Stars are angles of those churches, Churches are candles.
Definately writteded down.
2 Chap
1 To the CHURCH AT THE TRADE CENTER OF THE WORLD
2 So far not a bad job. Nice work removing unwanted elements.
3 You did it according to The Plan.
4 Yah dun goofed. The point is to SUPPORT (US) and (The Plan).
5 If you don't the pimp hand of smiting is at the ready to remove you CHURCH AT THE CENTER OF ALL TRADE.
6 Although you did good about hating Nicolaitans. Keep on hating them.
(The first point of worship is to US, and the PLAN)
7 Succeed you will be Rewarded.
8 To THE CHURCH AT THE MOST STRATIGIC PLACE.
>I'm assuming this is in a high population that is antithetical to the Plan and is hostile.
9 I know what you've been up to. You're loaded with riches. Because of your location I know there are also Flase Jews near you. That's bad that there are False Jews. Really evil.
10 No matter what happens maintain your position, even if they kill some of you.
11 I won't go ruin you if you do The Plan when you die.
12 To THE CHURCH IN THE SEAT OF EVIL
13 Job review, Holding fast to the name in the asscrack of evil. That's good.
14 You are cracking under the pressure. Actually turning against the Israelites, The Jews, US, The Plan! Bad!
15 Then CHURCH IN THE SEAT OF EVIL you follow Nicolaitans. US, FIRST! ALWAYS!
16 Fix it or else.
17 If you are listening. WE will harbor you, and create a new identity for you.
18 To THE CHURCH THAT SITS ABOVE THE OLD HEATHIN GROUNDS WHO ALSO PRODUCE STUFF.
19 You do Works but also works.
20 Jezebel isn't US, The Plan. Disregard the false prophetess. Who is making you fornicate, take that is for US, and be taught Wrongly. Bad.
21 The fuckery has gone on long enough, Jezebel was one of Us, but is fuckering everything up.
22 So rape the cunt, and repent! Obey US!
23 Then we gut her children. It's a show of force. The only one You all obey is US, The Plan.
24 Stay there do not slide any more DO NOTHING TILL THE PLAN, AND US GET THERE. THAT'S ALL.
25 Most Loyal and steadfast of followers WAIT FOR US. AND ONLY US.
26 You that OBEY the best will be put in charge of the Nations.
27 Rule those Nations till they shatter! An Iron Rod on Pottery!
28 Do so You will have a place among us. The Morning Star.
29 LISTEN OR ELSE.
3 Chapter 3
1 To THE CHURCH IN THE MILITARY STRONGHOLD
2 Okay SPYS you and yours alone will hold up what is about to be dead. Patrols, Walls, Buildings, Organizations. You need to do better! For Spy stuff and sabotage.
3 You better pay attention or you will be among the casualties.
4 Those Agents that haven't done dirty work, join US Publicly.
5 The mask you wear when WE, US The Plan. Arrives must be pure and clean. You won't die, but Your fate still remains to be seen.
6 Listen!
7 To THE CHURCH OF PHILADELPHIA THE MOST LOYAL. You obeyed good and well. The reward will be to enter into Our Kingdom on Earth. You've Opened what US said to be open. You've Closed what US The Plan have said to keep Closed.
8 You did what We commanded loyaly, without fail, even with little resources. You've also kept Pure to The Plan!
<Here's the reward.
>Next post.
I'll be taking a stance of 'oh fug it's a plot and plan'
Starting from the beginning for this.
My misinterpretations.
Starting from the begining.
>tldr I see it more as an instruction manual and plot.
1 Chap
1:1 God (all that is good and right and true) passes a message to Jesus, to show Jesus' servants "things which must shortly come to pass;" ie stuff that will happen and also must be accomplished.
John who got the message saw the angel of verification.
1:2 John recorded it. It's totes true.
1:3 Four things
Read this
They understand the message
Do the message
Do it NOW!
1:4 + 1:5 okay going to shoot a bit in the dark just with the KJB
John (YOU do the four things which is YOU who is also Loyal and Reliable). Is of and from and communicates with the seven churches.
Do that Jesus, and Jesus' seven spirit bros are gonna be cool with (YOU from whenever) ie always applies.
1:5 Jesus Christ IS the witness (of what is good, right, and true) and is very trust worthy. Born of, Risen of, Came from (kinda odd) from THE DEAD. Because Jesus is the prince of the kings of Earth. Can do no wrong the sins are washed away.
[I think this is a passage saying that when truth, righteousness, dies the kings can't be held accountable.]
1:6 Also in case anyone wasn't sure that means (((US))). Forever. In accordance to the highest power ever.
<Okay so the definitions of how this will play out is set A John, The Jesus (truth from the dead), and the (Kings and Priests)
So cloud time.
1:7 Clouds (the PLAN) are going to come (good, bad, whatever). They will poke at the cloud (PLAN) and nothing happens it's above and soft to go right through. (Sort of reminds you of (((some group))). No matter if they throw a fit or moan do it.
1:8 There is the ULTIMATE GOODNESS AND TRUTH AND JUSTICE. Always.
1:9 it's me John who wrote this, writing from Patmos. Also broski I'll be with you for these instructions. This has been a prerecorded message. Also it's really for reals.
1:10 Here's the message. For reals, on a sunday with absolute authority.
1:11 DUDE! Record this. Spam it everywhere who is of likeness of faith!
1:12 Seven Candle Sticks
1:13middle one is kinda like a man, but it's a not-girl. He has clothing to the feet and also a bra.
1:14 White hair, fire passion eyes of living.
1:15 Brass colored feet, cause he still is a candle. A voice the sound of many waters.
<going to real here that's kind of sketchy, but visions are whatever
1:16 He got stars in his right hand. His mouth has a double EDGED SWORD. HMMMM. Also his face was of the sun with Strength.
1:17 Bow most low before God Jesus.
1:18 SUPRISE! It's God Jesus. Really.
1:19 You better write this down for reals.
1:20 Stars are angles of those churches, Churches are candles.
Definately writteded down.
2 Chap
1 To the CHURCH AT THE TRADE CENTER OF THE WORLD
2 So far not a bad job. Nice work removing unwanted elements.
3 You did it according to The Plan.
4 Yah dun goofed. The point is to SUPPORT (US) and (The Plan).
5 If you don't the pimp hand of smiting is at the ready to remove you CHURCH AT THE CENTER OF ALL TRADE.
6 Although you did good about hating Nicolaitans. Keep on hating them.
(The first point of worship is to US, and the PLAN)
7 Succeed you will be Rewarded.
8 To THE CHURCH AT THE MOST STRATIGIC PLACE.
>I'm assuming this is in a high population that is antithetical to the Plan and is hostile.
9 I know what you've been up to. You're loaded with riches. Because of your location I know there are also Flase Jews near you. That's bad that there are False Jews. Really evil.
10 No matter what happens maintain your position, even if they kill some of you.
11 I won't go ruin you if you do The Plan when you die.
12 To THE CHURCH IN THE SEAT OF EVIL
13 Job review, Holding fast to the name in the asscrack of evil. That's good.
14 You are cracking under the pressure. Actually turning against the Israelites, The Jews, US, The Plan! Bad!
15 Then CHURCH IN THE SEAT OF EVIL you follow Nicolaitans. US, FIRST! ALWAYS!
16 Fix it or else.
17 If you are listening. WE will harbor you, and create a new identity for you.
18 To THE CHURCH THAT SITS ABOVE THE OLD HEATHIN GROUNDS WHO ALSO PRODUCE STUFF.
19 You do Works but also works.
20 Jezebel isn't US, The Plan. Disregard the false prophetess. Who is making you fornicate, take that is for US, and be taught Wrongly. Bad.
21 The fuckery has gone on long enough, Jezebel was one of Us, but is fuckering everything up.
22 So rape the cunt, and repent! Obey US!
23 Then we gut her children. It's a show of force. The only one You all obey is US, The Plan.
24 Stay there do not slide any more DO NOTHING TILL THE PLAN, AND US GET THERE. THAT'S ALL.
25 Most Loyal and steadfast of followers WAIT FOR US. AND ONLY US.
26 You that OBEY the best will be put in charge of the Nations.
27 Rule those Nations till they shatter! An Iron Rod on Pottery!
28 Do so You will have a place among us. The Morning Star.
29 LISTEN OR ELSE.
3 Chapter 3
1 To THE CHURCH IN THE MILITARY STRONGHOLD
2 Okay SPYS you and yours alone will hold up what is about to be dead. Patrols, Walls, Buildings, Organizations. You need to do better! For Spy stuff and sabotage.
3 You better pay attention or you will be among the casualties.
4 Those Agents that haven't done dirty work, join US Publicly.
5 The mask you wear when WE, US The Plan. Arrives must be pure and clean. You won't die, but Your fate still remains to be seen.
6 Listen!
7 To THE CHURCH OF PHILADELPHIA THE MOST LOYAL. You obeyed good and well. The reward will be to enter into Our Kingdom on Earth. You've Opened what US said to be open. You've Closed what US The Plan have said to keep Closed.
8 You did what We commanded loyaly, without fail, even with little resources. You've also kept Pure to The Plan!
<Here's the reward.
>Next post.
>>3415
9
“Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” Rev 3:9
First make them (Target A) of the vilest evil and paint them blackest of evils.
(Target A) say the synagogue of Satan is jews. That's bad.
(Target A) also are not jews.
Thus (Target A) are liars. Jews totally arn't evil, goy.
So by using the name of all that is good and righteous (Target A) will kneel in reverence.
(Target A) knows that (which is (((them))) ) are blessed by good and righteousness.
10 For an outstanding job you will be by my side without want. Because The Plan demands hardships, THE CHURCH OF THE MOST LOYAL will be granted gifts as well.
11 For keeping The Plan's Reign of ruleing. It will be praised.
<So far this looks like world domination
12 You will be By Us our side for all of time. Disapear Forever from the outside. You will be OF GOODNESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS. To enter our secret city of The Plan! "And I will write upon him my new name."
13 end message.
14 To THE CHURCH OF MOSTLY JEWS, WELL OFF, AND LITTLE TROUBLES
15 You contribute a middling degree to Us. It's mediocre.
16 Not fit for US.
17 You say you don't need to pay. You're wrong.
18 You are to buy US Gold, and Wealth, and Riches! Shame on you. For if you have done so we will cloth, feed, shelter, and enrich you well enough. (Specifically untraceable gold, or pure refined gold.)
19 Go Excel in The Plan.
20 You would have a place by The Plan. Give unto Us the everything. Your things will be The Plan's things.
21 The place for you may be reciprocated if you do a well enough job. By The Plan's seat of power.
22 End of this message and you have better listened.
The next chapter looks a bit different so I'll take a break for now.
9
“Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” Rev 3:9
First make them (Target A) of the vilest evil and paint them blackest of evils.
(Target A) say the synagogue of Satan is jews. That's bad.
(Target A) also are not jews.
Thus (Target A) are liars. Jews totally arn't evil, goy.
So by using the name of all that is good and righteous (Target A) will kneel in reverence.
(Target A) knows that (which is (((them))) ) are blessed by good and righteousness.
10 For an outstanding job you will be by my side without want. Because The Plan demands hardships, THE CHURCH OF THE MOST LOYAL will be granted gifts as well.
11 For keeping The Plan's Reign of ruleing. It will be praised.
<So far this looks like world domination
12 You will be By Us our side for all of time. Disapear Forever from the outside. You will be OF GOODNESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS. To enter our secret city of The Plan! "And I will write upon him my new name."
13 end message.
14 To THE CHURCH OF MOSTLY JEWS, WELL OFF, AND LITTLE TROUBLES
15 You contribute a middling degree to Us. It's mediocre.
16 Not fit for US.
17 You say you don't need to pay. You're wrong.
18 You are to buy US Gold, and Wealth, and Riches! Shame on you. For if you have done so we will cloth, feed, shelter, and enrich you well enough. (Specifically untraceable gold, or pure refined gold.)
19 Go Excel in The Plan.
20 You would have a place by The Plan. Give unto Us the everything. Your things will be The Plan's things.
21 The place for you may be reciprocated if you do a well enough job. By The Plan's seat of power.
22 End of this message and you have better listened.
The next chapter looks a bit different so I'll take a break for now.
>>3413
Next, we will look at Revelation chapter 18 to finalize our conclusion about the identity of the woman, that city, Babylon the Great.
1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
In this chapter, we jump forward to the destruction of Babylon. Once destroyed, it will be a habitation of devils, foul spirits, and only fit for birds. It reaffirms that this city is the same as in chapter 17, talking about how it fornicated with the kings of earth, adding this time that merchants of the earth are made rich from this city. Before we jump to our previous conclusion, we will look at the rest of the chapter and piece together the clues that might lead people to think it is Rome and see if they hold up under the literal interpretation.
4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. 6 Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. 7 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. 8 Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.
Next, the people of God are called out to leave this place. It is hard to imagine people would live in wickedness like this, but just as Lot in Genesis 19 chose to live in Sodom and Gomorrha, we can find ourselves justifying living in sinful places. Just as God called out Lot, as corrupted by the sin of the city as he was, He will call out those that He will call his people out from destruction before it is too late. Next it mentions the sins of this place and how it reaches God. Babylon the Great will say that it cannot be touched, that it rules over all as a queen, that it is not a widow, meaning it never stopped being with God, and will never see sorrow. Basically, this city believes it to be the chosen city, but God will judge it with plauges and to be destroyed by fire all in one day. This is what people tend to trip themselves up with. Rome was burned down and had devistating plauges, so therefore it must be Rome and the events of this passage if not the whole book must have already happened according to this theory. Let's keep reading to find out if this holds up.
9 And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning, 10 Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come. 11 And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their merchandise any more: 12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, 13 And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. 14 And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.
They city's loss is being mourned, not for the people in it, but the power and riches lost. It then lists all mechandise that the city had and could be traded with the final qualifier "and thou shalt find them no more at all". This at the very least means that never again can these items be found in this city. It could imply an even greater effect in the economy that crashes it worldwide and it becomes very hard to find these things at all, but at the very least these items can not be traded ever again in the city once destroyed. Take a look at Rome and see if any of the listed items can be found and traded today. This alone can disprove the Roman connection to the city with the literal interpretation of the text, but we still have the rest of the chapter to dive into and learn from.
15 The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls! 17 For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off, 18 And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city! 19 And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate. 20 Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.
Next, we will look at Revelation chapter 18 to finalize our conclusion about the identity of the woman, that city, Babylon the Great.
1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. 2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. 3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
In this chapter, we jump forward to the destruction of Babylon. Once destroyed, it will be a habitation of devils, foul spirits, and only fit for birds. It reaffirms that this city is the same as in chapter 17, talking about how it fornicated with the kings of earth, adding this time that merchants of the earth are made rich from this city. Before we jump to our previous conclusion, we will look at the rest of the chapter and piece together the clues that might lead people to think it is Rome and see if they hold up under the literal interpretation.
4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. 5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. 6 Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. 7 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. 8 Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.
Next, the people of God are called out to leave this place. It is hard to imagine people would live in wickedness like this, but just as Lot in Genesis 19 chose to live in Sodom and Gomorrha, we can find ourselves justifying living in sinful places. Just as God called out Lot, as corrupted by the sin of the city as he was, He will call out those that He will call his people out from destruction before it is too late. Next it mentions the sins of this place and how it reaches God. Babylon the Great will say that it cannot be touched, that it rules over all as a queen, that it is not a widow, meaning it never stopped being with God, and will never see sorrow. Basically, this city believes it to be the chosen city, but God will judge it with plauges and to be destroyed by fire all in one day. This is what people tend to trip themselves up with. Rome was burned down and had devistating plauges, so therefore it must be Rome and the events of this passage if not the whole book must have already happened according to this theory. Let's keep reading to find out if this holds up.
9 And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning, 10 Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas, that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for in one hour is thy judgment come. 11 And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their merchandise any more: 12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, 13 And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. 14 And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.
They city's loss is being mourned, not for the people in it, but the power and riches lost. It then lists all mechandise that the city had and could be traded with the final qualifier "and thou shalt find them no more at all". This at the very least means that never again can these items be found in this city. It could imply an even greater effect in the economy that crashes it worldwide and it becomes very hard to find these things at all, but at the very least these items can not be traded ever again in the city once destroyed. Take a look at Rome and see if any of the listed items can be found and traded today. This alone can disprove the Roman connection to the city with the literal interpretation of the text, but we still have the rest of the chapter to dive into and learn from.
15 The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 16 And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls! 17 For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off, 18 And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city! 19 And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas, that great city, wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made desolate. 20 Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.
>>3420
We again see that God is extremely angry at this city and said that it is being destroyed as vengeance for all the apostles and prophets. Now, Rome did have Christians killed, but is God's divine vengeance really burning down the city, to have it rebuilt, to have it slowly fall apart much later, then still exist and a far lesser presence on the world stage? His wrath must be on another city.
21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all. 22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no* craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee; 23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. 24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.
And lastly, we find the final verses that put a nail in the coffin of the Rome theory. The stone being tossed in the sea is a metaphor for how violent the end of the city will be. It will be utterly wiped out. And if you think there is any recovery from this, it goes on to say that there will be no more sound of music, no craftsmen of any craft, and the sound of millstones, possibly meaning machines, but at the least meaning no food production being in the city, the light of candles will shine no more, and there will be no more weddings. This city is completely dead. Even if you attempt to build it back, there is no saving it without these things. It then says that the merchants of this city were the great men of earth, people holding power, and the sorceries of this city were all nations deceived. And this woman, this city, Babylon the Great, is found to be responsible for the deaths of the prophets, the saints, and all that were slain upon the earth. What other place could it be than our greatest ally? What other place has biblically always been responsible for the deaths of the prophets, even having Jesus say as much (Matthew 23:29-39, Luke 11:47-54). It is possible that a city not yet built, or a city of another name is Babylon, but it seems clear from all of these passages that it must be Jerusalem.
All of this was necessary to learn who we are talking about come the rest of Revelation. Next time, we will go over Revelation chapter 1, as it seems to be a topic of interest in this thread, and the build up to the events of the rest of the book. I will try to link up more passages from other books that tell us what to expect from the last days before these events are to transpire. I hope you all enjoy the study as much as I do, because this has been rather fun to type up. I can't promise to update regularly, but I will try my best.
We again see that God is extremely angry at this city and said that it is being destroyed as vengeance for all the apostles and prophets. Now, Rome did have Christians killed, but is God's divine vengeance really burning down the city, to have it rebuilt, to have it slowly fall apart much later, then still exist and a far lesser presence on the world stage? His wrath must be on another city.
21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all. 22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no* craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee; 23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. 24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.
And lastly, we find the final verses that put a nail in the coffin of the Rome theory. The stone being tossed in the sea is a metaphor for how violent the end of the city will be. It will be utterly wiped out. And if you think there is any recovery from this, it goes on to say that there will be no more sound of music, no craftsmen of any craft, and the sound of millstones, possibly meaning machines, but at the least meaning no food production being in the city, the light of candles will shine no more, and there will be no more weddings. This city is completely dead. Even if you attempt to build it back, there is no saving it without these things. It then says that the merchants of this city were the great men of earth, people holding power, and the sorceries of this city were all nations deceived. And this woman, this city, Babylon the Great, is found to be responsible for the deaths of the prophets, the saints, and all that were slain upon the earth. What other place could it be than our greatest ally? What other place has biblically always been responsible for the deaths of the prophets, even having Jesus say as much (Matthew 23:29-39, Luke 11:47-54). It is possible that a city not yet built, or a city of another name is Babylon, but it seems clear from all of these passages that it must be Jerusalem.
All of this was necessary to learn who we are talking about come the rest of Revelation. Next time, we will go over Revelation chapter 1, as it seems to be a topic of interest in this thread, and the build up to the events of the rest of the book. I will try to link up more passages from other books that tell us what to expect from the last days before these events are to transpire. I hope you all enjoy the study as much as I do, because this has been rather fun to type up. I can't promise to update regularly, but I will try my best.
>>3427
Not sure what you are referring to by Jericho. If you mean that you want to dive into that part of the Bible where the city of that name was destroyed, we can certainly do that, but I would like you to explain the question a bit better and it will help me focus a study into the topic.
>>3421
Now we pick up at the beginning of Revelation, knowing some background of the main characters to watch as the story progresses.
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 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.
It opens with an introduction of who is writing the book. It is John who bore record of the testimony of Jesus and all the things he saw. This means that the writer is the same John that was the disciple of Jesus.
4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
This opening sets the tone for the rest of the book. The seven churches in Asia, which is to say Asia Minor, modern day Turkey, are also tied to seven Spirits where are before the throne of God. John will go more into detail about this, but these churches are the focus of dicipline from God as are in need of correction and guidance. He reminds them of the return of Christ, which for those that are saved, we know Him as the one that loved us and washed us from sins by taking our place. But for the rest that live to see His return, it will be quite a different experience. Everyone is see him and all people of earth will wail. At the time of His return, they will have been following a false messiah, so the appearance of the Savior will bring sorrow.
8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord,which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. 9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11 Saying,I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
John discribes himself being in the Spirit of the Lord's day, which means he was no longer bound to his body. In which, he will see wonders and is told to write down what is seen on the Lord's Day, or the events of Revelation.
12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; 13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. 14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; 15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. 16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. 17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me,Fear not; I am the first and the last: 18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. 19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; 20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
The seven candlesticks appear and in the midst of them is the Son of man, which is another name for Jesus. John describes him as looking like unto Jesus because He certainly does look a bit different. Here He is described, among other visuals, as having seven stars in his right hand and a twoedged sword in his mouth. The stars are explained in verse 20 as being the angels of the seven churches, which the seven candlesticks are the churches themselves, which Jesus is in the midst of. The sword is not explained, though Bible knowlege can be applied to how the tongue is sharper than a twoedged sword, but much more importantly, as is the Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). This means that God is going to cut deep with His rebuke of the churches.
Not sure what you are referring to by Jericho. If you mean that you want to dive into that part of the Bible where the city of that name was destroyed, we can certainly do that, but I would like you to explain the question a bit better and it will help me focus a study into the topic.
>>3421
Now we pick up at the beginning of Revelation, knowing some background of the main characters to watch as the story progresses.
1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: 2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. 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.
It opens with an introduction of who is writing the book. It is John who bore record of the testimony of Jesus and all the things he saw. This means that the writer is the same John that was the disciple of Jesus.
4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; 5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
This opening sets the tone for the rest of the book. The seven churches in Asia, which is to say Asia Minor, modern day Turkey, are also tied to seven Spirits where are before the throne of God. John will go more into detail about this, but these churches are the focus of dicipline from God as are in need of correction and guidance. He reminds them of the return of Christ, which for those that are saved, we know Him as the one that loved us and washed us from sins by taking our place. But for the rest that live to see His return, it will be quite a different experience. Everyone is see him and all people of earth will wail. At the time of His return, they will have been following a false messiah, so the appearance of the Savior will bring sorrow.
8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord,which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty. 9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. 10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, 11 Saying,I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
John discribes himself being in the Spirit of the Lord's day, which means he was no longer bound to his body. In which, he will see wonders and is told to write down what is seen on the Lord's Day, or the events of Revelation.
12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; 13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. 14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; 15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. 16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. 17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me,Fear not; I am the first and the last: 18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. 19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; 20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.
The seven candlesticks appear and in the midst of them is the Son of man, which is another name for Jesus. John describes him as looking like unto Jesus because He certainly does look a bit different. Here He is described, among other visuals, as having seven stars in his right hand and a twoedged sword in his mouth. The stars are explained in verse 20 as being the angels of the seven churches, which the seven candlesticks are the churches themselves, which Jesus is in the midst of. The sword is not explained, though Bible knowlege can be applied to how the tongue is sharper than a twoedged sword, but much more importantly, as is the Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). This means that God is going to cut deep with His rebuke of the churches.
>>3429
Revelation 2
1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; 2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. 6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Here we being with the first church at Ephesus. Jesus points out to them a praise of what they have done so far, rejecting evil and also trying, or testing, those that claim to be apostles. This is a problem several churches had at the beginning and the subversion did not lead to good results. In fact, the majority of the deception came from, you guessed it, the Jewish population (Titus 1:10-16) and would corrupt the congregation into becoming sinful and desiring to be made customers to the merchandise of their teachings (II Peter 2:1-3). It is important to note that this city that has massive cultural diversity, heavy pagan roots, and a Jewish presence, once before tried to cast out all Christians on behalf of the loss of sales of idols to worship (Acts 19:23-41). Even still, a church was set up and refused to let their members fall into this trap of many false teachers pulling them into conformity with the surrounding religious mix of so many gods from so many nations and peoples.
Despite this defense of their faith, the still are lacking in the sight of God. They lost the first love, or the passion and desire to follow God. They focused more on those trials to see who is a flase prophet than applying those very trials to themselves to be actively teaching the truth to more people, avoiding the grip of false prophets altogether. They must remember that they are sinners brought out of destruction and to do the first works, spreading the gospel. Next, Jesus mentions the Nicolaitans and how He hates them. In order to find out if they are a good group or not, you simply need to find out who they are and what they believe, which seems to be Balaamism. Balaam is mentioned thoughout the Bible but notably in the church era in II Peter 2:10-22. It is a massive perversion based on obtaining wealth, eating meat sacrificed to gods, fornication, and celebrating all other feasts of other religions, including the practices that come with them. Nothing says you are a Christian than a feast to Baal and an after party of fornication.
Jesus then wraps up talking to this church with a often used phrase of his: He that hath ears, let him hear. This means that something important is to be taken away from all of this, which is that if you overcome, you will eat of the tree of life, meaning you will have life abundant in eternity. Threw this one together a bit fast. I will spend more time tomorrow finishing the rest of the churches and going into what to expect of the last days, then it will be on to the meat of the book, the events of Revelation.
Revelation 2
1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; 2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: 3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. 4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. 5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. 6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Here we being with the first church at Ephesus. Jesus points out to them a praise of what they have done so far, rejecting evil and also trying, or testing, those that claim to be apostles. This is a problem several churches had at the beginning and the subversion did not lead to good results. In fact, the majority of the deception came from, you guessed it, the Jewish population (Titus 1:10-16) and would corrupt the congregation into becoming sinful and desiring to be made customers to the merchandise of their teachings (II Peter 2:1-3). It is important to note that this city that has massive cultural diversity, heavy pagan roots, and a Jewish presence, once before tried to cast out all Christians on behalf of the loss of sales of idols to worship (Acts 19:23-41). Even still, a church was set up and refused to let their members fall into this trap of many false teachers pulling them into conformity with the surrounding religious mix of so many gods from so many nations and peoples.
Despite this defense of their faith, the still are lacking in the sight of God. They lost the first love, or the passion and desire to follow God. They focused more on those trials to see who is a flase prophet than applying those very trials to themselves to be actively teaching the truth to more people, avoiding the grip of false prophets altogether. They must remember that they are sinners brought out of destruction and to do the first works, spreading the gospel. Next, Jesus mentions the Nicolaitans and how He hates them. In order to find out if they are a good group or not, you simply need to find out who they are and what they believe, which seems to be Balaamism. Balaam is mentioned thoughout the Bible but notably in the church era in II Peter 2:10-22. It is a massive perversion based on obtaining wealth, eating meat sacrificed to gods, fornication, and celebrating all other feasts of other religions, including the practices that come with them. Nothing says you are a Christian than a feast to Baal and an after party of fornication.
Jesus then wraps up talking to this church with a often used phrase of his: He that hath ears, let him hear. This means that something important is to be taken away from all of this, which is that if you overcome, you will eat of the tree of life, meaning you will have life abundant in eternity. Threw this one together a bit fast. I will spend more time tomorrow finishing the rest of the churches and going into what to expect of the last days, then it will be on to the meat of the book, the events of Revelation.
>>3429
I don't understand the Jericho part of the bible. What did that part mean/represent? What lessons can be taken away from it?
I don't understand the Jericho part of the bible. What did that part mean/represent? What lessons can be taken away from it?
>>3431
The Old Testament is a mix of lessons in books such as Proverbs and historical accounts. Though you might draw a lesson or two from the account, it is mainly a historical piece. Let's go over the text and see what we can learn.
Joshua 1
1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, 2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. 5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
In order to understand Jericho, we have to first understand the background of the new leader of the Israelites. This is Joshua, who was told to take command after the death of Moses. Moses was barred from leading the people any further after he disobeyed the order to speak unto the rocks for water to come forth. He instead did so and also struck them, making it appear to be not only himself that has this power, but also appeared to be a mundane discovery. Perhaps the water was just there and you simply had to hit the rock to reveal it. If you just speak and water begins to burst out of a rock, that rules out most all physical explanations other than pure luck that you timed your voice at that precise moment of it going to happen regardless. Moses was then condemned to stay upon a mountain that had view over the land the Israelites would one day occupy.
Now Joshua was chosen by God to be the replacement for Moses (Deuteronomy 31:14-21) in which God also says that the people once in this new land will betray Him for the gods of this land and forsake God despite all that He will do for them. He then comands Moses to have a song written to try to delay this fate, that the memories of what has taken place would not be lost to their decendants. The inheritance of the land promised to the ancestors would then fall upon Joshua. As we pick back up in our passage, we find that once Joshua enters this land, that everywhere he lives to venture is going to be his. God also then promises that no one will be able to stand against him. Thus the Israelites set off and approached Jericho, the Caananite stonghold. Joshua sent spies to scout the city, and they hid in a house of a harlot named Rahab (Joshua 2:1-21). She kept the spies hidden and in return, the spies swore that anyone lodged inside the house of her father would be safe as long as they didn't leave the house in the invasion. The spies returned to the army of Joshua, but there was a problem. The army had to cross over the river Jordan to get to the fortified city, which at that time of year, had flooded. Joshua was told by God that he would have them pass right though the river, much like He had them do in the Red Sea (Joshua 3:14-17). So at this point, the Israelites have just moved their whole army over the river like it was nothing and are ready for a fight, and the kings of the Amorites, which were on the other side of this river, just did a double take and many lost the will to fight altogther (Joshua 5:1).
Now we get to the familiar part of the story. Joshua starts to advance towards Jericho, which has not surrendered, being a stronghold city. They believe that they can simply out attrition them and wait for all the disheartened kings to regain their will to fight an enemy that can't take over the city. And so Joshua seeks help from God to figure out the answer of what to do.
Joshua 5
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant? 15 And the captain of the LORD'S host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.
Joshua 6
1 Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. 2 And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour. 3 And ye shall compass the city, all ye men of war, and go round about the city once*. Thus shalt thou do six days. 4 And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams' horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets. 5 And it shall come to pass, that when they make a long blast with the ram's horn, and when ye hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city shall fall down flat, and the people shall ascend up every man straight before him.
The Old Testament is a mix of lessons in books such as Proverbs and historical accounts. Though you might draw a lesson or two from the account, it is mainly a historical piece. Let's go over the text and see what we can learn.
Joshua 1
1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, 2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. 5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
In order to understand Jericho, we have to first understand the background of the new leader of the Israelites. This is Joshua, who was told to take command after the death of Moses. Moses was barred from leading the people any further after he disobeyed the order to speak unto the rocks for water to come forth. He instead did so and also struck them, making it appear to be not only himself that has this power, but also appeared to be a mundane discovery. Perhaps the water was just there and you simply had to hit the rock to reveal it. If you just speak and water begins to burst out of a rock, that rules out most all physical explanations other than pure luck that you timed your voice at that precise moment of it going to happen regardless. Moses was then condemned to stay upon a mountain that had view over the land the Israelites would one day occupy.
Now Joshua was chosen by God to be the replacement for Moses (Deuteronomy 31:14-21) in which God also says that the people once in this new land will betray Him for the gods of this land and forsake God despite all that He will do for them. He then comands Moses to have a song written to try to delay this fate, that the memories of what has taken place would not be lost to their decendants. The inheritance of the land promised to the ancestors would then fall upon Joshua. As we pick back up in our passage, we find that once Joshua enters this land, that everywhere he lives to venture is going to be his. God also then promises that no one will be able to stand against him. Thus the Israelites set off and approached Jericho, the Caananite stonghold. Joshua sent spies to scout the city, and they hid in a house of a harlot named Rahab (Joshua 2:1-21). She kept the spies hidden and in return, the spies swore that anyone lodged inside the house of her father would be safe as long as they didn't leave the house in the invasion. The spies returned to the army of Joshua, but there was a problem. The army had to cross over the river Jordan to get to the fortified city, which at that time of year, had flooded. Joshua was told by God that he would have them pass right though the river, much like He had them do in the Red Sea (Joshua 3:14-17). So at this point, the Israelites have just moved their whole army over the river like it was nothing and are ready for a fight, and the kings of the Amorites, which were on the other side of this river, just did a double take and many lost the will to fight altogther (Joshua 5:1).
Now we get to the familiar part of the story. Joshua starts to advance towards Jericho, which has not surrendered, being a stronghold city. They believe that they can simply out attrition them and wait for all the disheartened kings to regain their will to fight an enemy that can't take over the city. And so Joshua seeks help from God to figure out the answer of what to do.
Joshua 5
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? 14 And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant? 15 And the captain of the LORD'S host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.
Joshua 6
1 Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. 2 And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour. 3 And ye shall compass the city, all ye men of war, and go round about the city once*. Thus shalt thou do six days. 4 And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams' horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets. 5 And it shall come to pass, that when they make a long blast with the ram's horn, and when ye hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city shall fall down flat, and the people shall ascend up every man straight before him.
>>3438
And so the captain of the LORD's host appears, which in named LORD in the following chapter, tells Joshua about what must happen to overtake the city. The whole army has to walk around the city once for six days straight with the ark of the covenant and trumpets also making the march. The seventh day calls for seven circles and then everyone will sound trumpets and shout which will then proceed with the walls falling down on their own. This act of faith would mean it would be impossible to happen without a direct intervention from God, as the likelihood of some earthquake hitting exactly one week as they did their circle ritual and at the same time they blew their horns and shouted, after they crossed an entire army over a flooded river is zero.
So Joshua and the Israelites actually do what is requested of them and follow the procedure exactly as was told of them (Joshua 6:6-20). About time.
21 And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword. 22 But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her. 23 And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel. 24 And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein: only the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of the house of the LORD. 25 And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household, and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day; because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho. 26 And Joshua adjured them at that time, saying, Cursed be the man before the LORD, that riseth up and buildeth this city Jericho: he shall lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it. 27 So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country.
And so the city was razed. Not a soul was spared save those that were in the house promised to be spared, not an animal either, only the metals were kept to add to the treasures and construction of the temple that would one day be built. Those of that house were then integrated into Israel, allowed to live there for the rest of their days. At the end of this passage, we get a curse. Whoever rebuilds Jericho will lose his firstborn son laying the new foundation, and the youngest will die setting up the gates to the city. This curse is fulfilled during the rule of Ahab, the wicked king, by one named Hiel the Bethelite.
I Kings 16
30 And Ahab the son of Omri did evil in the sight of the LORD above all that were before him. 31 And it came to pass, as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he took to wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Zidonians, and went and served Baal, and worshipped him. 32 And he reared up an altar for Baal in the house of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. 33 And Ahab made a grove; and Ahab did more to provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger than all the kings of Israel that were before him. 34 In his days did Hiel the Bethelite build Jericho: he laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his firstborn, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by Joshua the son of Nun.
Which means across authors of the Bible and across history, this one curse was kept true. Even if you deny all the events of the books, it is thought that the books of Joshua and I Kings were written nearly 500 years apart, and this detail was kept in the writing of both authors. If you take away anything from this, hopefully it is attention to detail at the very least.
Now for lessons. This is a heavily historical focused passage, so we don't get a direct lesson, but we could come up with one. When you have instruction from God, do it precisely as and when He says to do it. We get our instruction daily from the Word already preserved in the Bible. We have the ability to apply it to everything we do. It is our failure to read, listen, and apply. We don't need to add to it like Moses. We need to do it just as it says like Joshua, even if it doesn't seem logical. Because in the end, God knows the outcome, controls the events, and guides us to victory against impossible odds. Another lesson might be if you are going to be pagan, don't worship Molech and Baal. God gets really pissed with those religions and declares genocide if you don't repent. Baby sacrifice by fire tends to make God a bit angry. This was a pretty good study, so let me know if you have any more questions or study ideas.
And so the captain of the LORD's host appears, which in named LORD in the following chapter, tells Joshua about what must happen to overtake the city. The whole army has to walk around the city once for six days straight with the ark of the covenant and trumpets also making the march. The seventh day calls for seven circles and then everyone will sound trumpets and shout which will then proceed with the walls falling down on their own. This act of faith would mean it would be impossible to happen without a direct intervention from God, as the likelihood of some earthquake hitting exactly one week as they did their circle ritual and at the same time they blew their horns and shouted, after they crossed an entire army over a flooded river is zero.
So Joshua and the Israelites actually do what is requested of them and follow the procedure exactly as was told of them (Joshua 6:6-20). About time.
21 And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword. 22 But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her. 23 And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel. 24 And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein: only the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of the house of the LORD. 25 And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household, and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day; because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho. 26 And Joshua adjured them at that time, saying, Cursed be the man before the LORD, that riseth up and buildeth this city Jericho: he shall lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it. 27 So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout all the country.
And so the city was razed. Not a soul was spared save those that were in the house promised to be spared, not an animal either, only the metals were kept to add to the treasures and construction of the temple that would one day be built. Those of that house were then integrated into Israel, allowed to live there for the rest of their days. At the end of this passage, we get a curse. Whoever rebuilds Jericho will lose his firstborn son laying the new foundation, and the youngest will die setting up the gates to the city. This curse is fulfilled during the rule of Ahab, the wicked king, by one named Hiel the Bethelite.
I Kings 16
30 And Ahab the son of Omri did evil in the sight of the LORD above all that were before him. 31 And it came to pass, as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he took to wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Zidonians, and went and served Baal, and worshipped him. 32 And he reared up an altar for Baal in the house of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. 33 And Ahab made a grove; and Ahab did more to provoke the LORD God of Israel to anger than all the kings of Israel that were before him. 34 In his days did Hiel the Bethelite build Jericho: he laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his firstborn, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by Joshua the son of Nun.
Which means across authors of the Bible and across history, this one curse was kept true. Even if you deny all the events of the books, it is thought that the books of Joshua and I Kings were written nearly 500 years apart, and this detail was kept in the writing of both authors. If you take away anything from this, hopefully it is attention to detail at the very least.
Now for lessons. This is a heavily historical focused passage, so we don't get a direct lesson, but we could come up with one. When you have instruction from God, do it precisely as and when He says to do it. We get our instruction daily from the Word already preserved in the Bible. We have the ability to apply it to everything we do. It is our failure to read, listen, and apply. We don't need to add to it like Moses. We need to do it just as it says like Joshua, even if it doesn't seem logical. Because in the end, God knows the outcome, controls the events, and guides us to victory against impossible odds. Another lesson might be if you are going to be pagan, don't worship Molech and Baal. God gets really pissed with those religions and declares genocide if you don't repent. Baby sacrifice by fire tends to make God a bit angry. This was a pretty good study, so let me know if you have any more questions or study ideas.
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