In all 3 readings the contrast between perception and reality is shown to be a mighty chasm, which fleshly thinking invariably gets wrong every time.
Isaiah 61 tells of Yahweh's blessing and favour to Zion through the LORD sending His beloved Son to them promising them restoration and healing through Messiah, his gospel message and restoration and healing through the offering of himself. The early verses are cited by our Lord Jesus in his home town synagogue in Nazareth - Luke 4 verse 16:30 - where he declared "today is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears". He has only quoted to the first half of verse 2 since Jesus ministry was to offer hope to the repentant who embraced the gospel message. The "day of vengeance" would come upon those who rejected the message in 70 AD (to the Jews) and the entire world at Jesus' second coming. This earned the ire of the townsfolk where our Lord had grown up in their midst and worked in their midst. The people of Nazareth attempted to kill him by casting him from the precipice. It was this Scripture that sustained John the Baptist as he languished in the prison (Machaerus) of Herod Antipas. Verses 3-7 describe the blessings which will flow to Zion when Jesus Messiah reigns over them at the appointed time. Verses 8-9 tell of their Sovereign's call on Israel to turn from their hypocritical ways and embrace the paths of the LORD. All the world will then acknowledge that nation as the blessed children of God. Verses 10-11 tell of the prophet rejoicing in the Almighty Creator and His plan to bring righteousness and blessing to the entire earth.
In Matthew 6 Jesus warns against 3 forms of showy piety prevalent amongst the Pharisees of his day: conspicuous giving of alms (charity, prayers designed to impress others rather than heartfelt requests to the Father and attention-seeking fasting. Matthew 6 verses 1-6 points out that charitable deeds must have their focus on the receiver and not the giver - and the reward being future not present. The same attitude must characterise our prayers: verses 5-6. Jesus then provides a model prayer in which the reverence of God and His Name - Yahweh our Father - being foremost. Then His Kingdom sought when His will is done. Next petition for needs (not wants), the forgiveness of our sins (measured and determined of our Father by our capacity to forgive others) and then deliverance from "the evil" - ie our nature's provocation within us to sin. Verses 16-18 advises on fasting: a preparation of the mind to serve God, not an opportunity to impress others with our religious dedication. Verses 19-24 tell us that the heart is a magnet. What we treasure most will be measured by what occupies our thinking most. Don't pretend we are serving God when our minds (hearts) are preoccupied with ourselves - ie covetousness which is idolatry (Colossians 3verses 5). Verses 25-34 speak of the treasure we should seek: freedom from all anxiety is known by our God who loves us and will provide all that we need to bring us into His Kingdom. Our Father has shown us His majesty and power to bestow blessings and beauty through His creative acts. The last two verses of the chapter establish what must be the primary purpose of our lives: honouring our Father and His Son by setting our affection on things above. Slowly read these aloud. Pause and ponder. One day at a time, the Father has given us. We leave the worry for tomorrow to Him.
God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a replacement for Saul, the failure who sat on the throne, from among Jesse's sons. The elders of the town trembled after hearing of Samuel's summary dispatch of Agag and asked him if he had come in peace. He replied, 'yes'. One by one the seven older brothers pass before him - each one impressive in his features; only for Samuel to be told not to look on the outward appearance (the basis of human judgment), but rather on the heart, which is Yahweh's basis of measurement. At last the youngest, who was not thought worthy of being presented, was brought, chosen and anointed. David was invited to soothe Saul's melancholic moods by playing his harp.
Isaiah in chapter 60 the time of Zion's future glory, when the wealth of the nations will pour into her (Psalm 102 verses12-22). Verses 1-3 describe the LORD bringing glory from gloom to the long downtrodden nation of Israel. We are living close to the commencement of that epoch as our above quote from Psalm 102 reveals for Yahweh has restored Israel to their homeland. He has once more given them Jerusalem. Verses 4-9 tell of the flowing of the wealth of the nations into Zion. We are told that many Arab nations will be to the forefront of helping Zion, as will Great Britain through her navy. The maritime power of Tarshish (Britain) will be at the forefront of Zion's restoration. Verses 10-14 speak of the prominence that Israel will experience and those who afflicted her will coming begging for mercy. Verses 15-16 is an acknowledgment of the Almighty's role in Jerusalem's elevation. Verses 17-22 outline the abundance of blessings that will flow to her as she is blessed in Messiah's kingdom. Just as in Revelation 21 Jerusalem's glory will be the LORD God Almighty and his radiant Son.
Matthew 5-7 is called "the sermon on the mount". Note from the start that after an arduous climb away from the multitude Jesus prepared a series of talks designed for disciples. It begins with a composite picture of our Lord's own character as the blueprint for all true citizens of Zion. There are 8 beatitudes: verses 2-12 - and the reward for each is the same- just expressed in different terms- that is to be blessed with a place in Messiah's kingdom. The 8 blessings - beatitudes- find their antitheses in the curses, or woes upon the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23. Within the 8th blessing (Greek "kairos" - a happiness borne in the knowledge of our Father's overriding love and care for His children) there is a ninth, for those who then heard and were moved to respond to the gracious words which they heard. Verses 13-6 give 2 metaphors which describe the disciple's purpose - to shine forth the gospel to others - and who the disciple truly is - a sincere follower of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 17-20 tell us of Christ's mission and as his followers our duty to develop a righteousness of the heart and not one of outward appearance to others. Verses 21-26 tell us to control anger and to reconcile problems, not stir up strife. Verses 27-32 deal with lust and difficulties within marriage. Verses 33-37 ask disciples to tell the truth and avoid oaths. Verses 38-42 ask us to avoid retaliation. Verses 43-48 instruct us to be as our Father and show love at all times. We note in all these words the authority of our Lord: "but I say unto you". This contrasts with the Jewish leaders who would quote one or another rabbinical authority: Matthew 7:28. In all of these segments our Lord goes beyond what the Law requires and goes straight to the issues of the heart. Let us also learn that this is how we should look at the Word of God and the words of His Son. The fifth chapter concludes with an appeal for the Father's children to appreciate and emulate His character (verses 43-48).
A @Christadelphians Video: What Does the Bible Say About the West Bank?] - Prophecy, Controversy & the Future of Israel* *Video Description:* What does the *Bible* say about the *West Bank**? In this eye-opening Bible talk, we explore the **prophetic significance* of the West Bank (referred to in Scripture as the *"mountains of Israel"**) and its role in God's plan for Israel and the world. From ancient prophecies to modern-day controversies, discover how the Bible sheds light on this hotly debated region and its connection to the **return of Jesus Christ* and the establishment of **God's Kingdom**. 📖 *Key Topics Covered:* The **West Bank in Bible prophecy**: What Scripture calls the "mountains of Israel." **Ezekiel's prophecies**: Jewish settlements and the future possession of the land. The *controversy surrounding the West Bank* and its fulfillment of Bible prophecy. The *Battle of Armageddon* and the return of Jesus Christ to save Israel. The establishment of *God's Kingdom* on Earth. 🔍 *Bible Verses Discussed (with Emojis):* 🏔️ *Ezekiel 36:8-12* - The mountains of Israel and Jewish settlements. ⚔️ *Ezekiel 38:8-9* - The future invasion of Israel. ✝️ *Ezekiel 39:4* - God's intervention to save Israel. 🌍 *Zechariah 14:9* - The Lord as King over all the Earth. 📜 *Joel 3 & Revelation 16* - The Battle of Armageddon. ⏱️ *Timestamps for Easy Navigation:* **00:00 - Introduction**: The West Bank controversy and its biblical significance. **01:10 - Ezekiel 36**: Prophecy of Jewish settlements in the mountains of Israel. **02:30 - Future Possession**: Israel's inheritance of the West Bank. **03:07 - Ezekiel 38**: The future invasion of Israel and the Battle of Armageddon. **04:29 - Zechariah 14**: Jesus Christ's return and the establishment of God's Kingdom. **05:00 - Conclusion**: The West Bank in Bible prophecy and its role in God's plan. 💡 *Why Watch This Video?* Understand the *biblical perspective* on the West Bank and its significance in prophecy. Learn how *ancient prophecies* are being fulfilled in modern times. Discover the *future hope* for Israel and the world through the return of Jesus Christ. Gain insight into the *controversies* surrounding the West Bank and their connection to Scripture. 🙏 *Join us as we delve into the Bible's teachings* on the West Bank and its role in God's ultimate plan for humanity. Don't forget to *like, comment, and subscribe* for more Bible-based teachings! #BibleProphecy #WestBank #Israel #Ezekiel #Armageddon #JesusChrist #GodsKingdom *Category:* Religion & Spirituality *Tags:* Bible Prophecy, West Bank, Israel, Ezekiel, Armageddon, Jesus Christ, God's Kingdom, Jewish Settlements, End Times, Scripture, Bible Study, Controversy, Zechariah, Joel, Revelation ************This video was produced by the ChristadelphianVideo.org project, arranged and supported by Christadelphians worldwide.** ChristadelphianVideo.org **Main site: https://cdvideo.org/#Christadelphianvideo #thebiblechannel #christadelphianstalk #Christadelphians #bible #openbible #Gospeltruth #gospel #Christadelphian #truth #podcast #discoverthebible #cdvideo
A @Christadelphians Video: with Luke foley.🔍 **A Thought-Provoking Bible Prophecy Real-time Analysis** 🔍 Could a **U.S. strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities** be setting the stage for biblical prophecy? In this **revealing** episode of *The Watchman Report*, we analyse Scripture and global events to uncover the possible connections. ⏳ **Video Chapters (8-Minute Breakdown):** 00:00 – **Introduction** 01:15 – **Iran’s Nuclear Threat & Current Events** 02:50 – **Ezekiel 38-39: Is This the Gog-Magog War?** 04:20 – **Daniel 11: The Kings in Conflict** 05:45 – **Isaiah 17 & Jeremiah 49: Iran in Prophecy?** 07:00 – **Could the USA Be Involved in Fulfilling Prophecy?** 07:50 – **Conclusion & Final Thoughts** 📖 **Key Bible Passages:** ✝️ **Ezekiel 38-39** – The Gog & Magog War ✝️ **Daniel 11:40-45** – The Kings of North & South ✝️ **Isaiah 17** – The Destruction of Damascus ✝️ **Jeremiah 49:34-39** – Judgment on Elam (Iran) 🔔 **Receive notifications** for more biblical insights—**subscribe & hit the bell!** 📌 **Tags:** Bible prophecy, end times, Iran nuclear, USA and Iran, Ezekiel 38, Daniel 11, Isaiah 17, Jeremiah 49, Watchman Report, Middle East prophecy 💬 **What do YOU think?** Are we seeing prophecy unfold? Let us know in the comments! 👍 **If you found this insightful, please like, share, and subscribe!** 😊
In chapter 7 after a long interval with the ark isolated the nation laments their condition and appeals to Samuel for change. Samuel indicates that this could only happen if Israel with all their heart seek for God and utterly forsake the idolatry that had brought their ruin. When the nation does this Yahweh would be found by them. To potently demonstrate the Almighty's saving might Samuel, washes his hands and sacrifices a sucking lamb. This animal spoke of the nation's helplessness and dependence on Yahweh's protection. This occurs at Mizpah (signifying God's over watching protection). Next Samuel prays for Israel's deliverance from the approaching Philistine host and Yahweh of armies responds with lightning, thunder and an overwhelming hailstorm unleashed upon the enemy host. This led to the scene of victory overseen by the now to be named, Ebenezer (or rock of help). The chapter finishes by telling us that Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life and of him establishing his residence where his roots began, Ramah.
1 Samuel 8 sadly tells of the failure of Samuel's sons to walk in his ways and consequently Israel's plea to be like other nations with an earthly king. Samuel remonstrates that this was tantamount to a rejection of God. Samuel outlines the huge cost upon the nation that such a choice would bring.
Isaiah 52 reveals Jerusalem's exultation that would accompany the "good tidings" of her king with his liberating gospel message. Zion's watchmen would sing with joy at the "comfort (or consolation- Hebrew 'nacham') the Messiah would bring. The Lord Jesus Christ is the subject of these Servant prophecies and no more strongly than in chapters 52-53. Verses 1-2 call upon Zion to rouse herself from the dust to which she had been reduced by her oppressor. The Assyrian yoke had been broken from her neck. Verses 3-5 tell of her oppressors being firstly Egypt and in the time of the prophet, the Assyrian. Verses 6-7 describe Yahweh proclaiming liberty to the slaves in the good news: ie the Gospel. The words of verse 7 are quoted by the Apostle Paul as applying to all who preach the Gospel: Romans 10:5-21. Isaiah 52:8-12. Those verses speak of the condition of Jerusalem in the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, with Jerusalem as its capital: Isaiah 2:1-5; Jeremiah 3:16-17. At that time Jerusalem will be cleansed and purified: Zechariah chapters 12-13. Verses 13-15 belong, in fact to chapter 53 and will be so considered tomorrow. Isaiah 52:13-15 describe Messiah as Yahweh's great servant being elevated after the humiliation of his crucifixion spoken of in chapter 53. He gospel message taken into all the world would cause kings and dignitaries of many nations being astounded by the message about the Messiah: our Lord Jesus Christ.
Revelation 14 verses 1-5 shows the redeemed with their Lord on Mount Zion, the glorious Jerusalem of the kingdom age. They are like those spoken of in chapter 7 the 144,000 - the Israel of God. They are virgins as they have not been defiled by the Roman whore - her teachings and behaviours. The Word of God had penetrated their thinking to the extent that the Lamb's Father's name - Yahweh - was written on their forehead (compare John 6:26-29). Verses 6-13 deal with the message/work of the three following angels. The first angel spoke of the everlasting Gospel being taken to all nations. This message includes the acceptance of God as the Almighty Creator (evolution is a falsehood that people will forsake in Christ's kingdom). The second and third angels proclaim Rome's doom (that city is symbolised as Babylon). The system which has persecuted the faithful believers of our Lord for 1,700 years will be avenged at that time. Two judgments are outlined. Firstly, the "harvest of the earth" - Catholic Europe from where Rome has derived its temporal power. And secondly, "the vine of the earth" the centre of doctrine - or spiritual correctness.
The readings in Samuel follow the journey of the ark whilst it is in Philistine possession until its return to the covenant people at the "forest of the woods" (Kirjath-jearim see Psalm 132). Firstly in Ashdod Yahweh's supremacy is shown over Dagon the fish god, by its symbolic prostration before Israel's God and finally it being shattered. Following this the inhabitants were plagued with tumours, called emerods, or haemorrhoids in the AV; these tumours seemingly being occasioned by a mice plague. Despairingly the ark is relocated to each of the five chief cities and the plagues of mice and tumours following the pattern. The Philistines were terrified that Israel's God would destroy them and so they devised a scheme to make a trespass offering of gold fashioned after their plagues and to send the ark home. They took two cows, which were still feeding their calves, and contrary to the natural expectation wend their way to the house of Joshua in Beth-shemesh. Here curiosity overtook the foolish inhabitants who decided, contrary to God's laws, to gaze inside the ark and consequently 70 men died. Like the Philistines the ark was relocated to Kirjath-jearim where it remained for about 90 years before eventually being brought triumphantly by David to its resting place in Jerusalem.
The prophet counsels the nation to reconsider its roots- Abraham and Sarah who responded to God in faith and proceeded to live uprightly before Him resulting in immense blessings. Yahweh their Rock stabilised Zion's foundations and those who likewise follow the path of the righteous will see Eden bloom on earth again in Messiah's kingdom; which will extend to the ends of the earth. Verses 4-6 tell of their Sovereign's appeal for Israel to await the revealing of His righteousness. Verses 7-8 describe the LORD's call to His people that His Law may find a home in their hearts, just as the tables of the Law were rightly within the ark of the Covenant. But for those who lived as though God's Word was but stone tablets they would perish with all those who saw the Law as an inflexible and rigid code which they used to judge others: Hebrews 1 verse 9-13. Verses 9-11 speak of the redeemed rousing themselves to embrace the principles of Zion, the mother of all who are faithful. The Almighty Creator appeals to His children in verses 12-16 to acknowledge His omnipotence. Verses 17-20 asks His children to stir themselves up and arouse themselves from their despondent and downcast state. The nation must forget their past persecutions and embrace Yahweh their faithful husband. God will console His people and bring vengeance upon their foes. Verses 21-23 outline that the cup of affliction will pass from Zion to her adversaries. Let us lift our heads knowing that the redeemed will come to Zion with 'songs of everlasting joy'. And One who will bring this to pass cannot fail, for just as He created the foundations of the universe, so He establishes the foundation of each and every faithful believer
Through Samuel the Word of God multiplied and brought stability. The promised judgment upon the house of Eli happened in the battle at Ebenezer - meaning both "the son of help" and "the stone of help". Had a faithful priesthood been present in Israel their Rock would have given His people victory. Instead disaster overtook the nation with the extinction of Eli's line and 30,000 carcasses lying as carrion upon the field. Though foolish sons treated the ark as a lucky charm in contrast to what Yahweh intended- contrast Numbers 10:35-36. Though emboldened by the ark's presence and contrariwise the Philistines dismayed, Israel fell before the foe whose battle cry should be that of the saints in their spiritual warfare (1 Corinthians 16:13). The great catastrophe for the 98 year old Eli and his devout daughter in law was the capture of the ark. Her final word was Ichabod, meaning the glory has departed.
The glorious servant of Yahweh in Isaiah 50 showed that the glory returned in the Lord Jesus Christ, as his servant ear was ever open to the Word of his God and instructed his every thought and action. The chapter begins with the LORD as challenging the nation of Israel, who were claiming that their Sovereign had divorced them. This was untrue and the Almighty says show Me your evidence - show Me your bill of divorce. It didn't exist since Yahweh hates "putting away": Malachi 2:10-16. The prophecy of Hosea establishes that despite the nation's continued unfaithfulness their God was ready to take them back as His spouse after a period of separation and genuine repentance. Verses 4-7 contrasts Israel's behaviour with Yahweh's faithful Servant - our Lord Jesus Christ. The Father daily sent an angel to sharpen His Son's magnificently receptive mind to His Father's Word. The Son like the perpetual and voluntary servant under the Law opened his ear to that Word. Read psalm 40:6-8; Hebrews 10:5-10. This submission and acceptance of His Father's way helped to enable the Son to life the life of total service. Jesus was obedient unto death, even the death upon the stake: Philippians 2:5-11. Verses 7-9 describe Jesus' determination to die that death in Jerusalem by which our the basis for our redeeming was established:
Luke 9:51. Note the context of this comment from Luke in chapter 9 verses 21-36; 43-44. As a consequence no adversary could stand before him and Yahweh would stand with His servant and provide him with the assurance that Jesus would overcome his foes in the name of his God: Psalm 118:10-29. Verses 10-11 tell those self assured false leaders that their Sovereign would extinguish their fire permanently.
The readings in Samuel follow the journey of the ark whilst it is in Philistine possession until its return to the covenant people at the "forest of the woods" (Kirjath-jearim see Psalm 132). Firstly in Ashdod Yahweh's supremacy is shown over Dagon the fish god, by its symbolic prostration before Israel's God and finally it being shattered. Following this the inhabitants were plagued with tumours, called emerods, or haemorrhoids in the AV; these tumours seemingly being occasioned by a mice plague. Despairingly the ark is relocated to each of the five chief cities and the plagues of mice and tumours following the pattern. The Philistines were terrified that Israel's God would destroy them and so they devised a scheme to make a trespass offering of gold fashioned after their plagues and to send the ark home. They took two cows, which were still feeding their calves, and contrary to the natural expectation wend their way to the house of Joshua in Beth-shemesh. Here curiosity overtook the foolish inhabitants who decided, contrary to God's laws, to gaze inside the ark and consequently 70 men died. Like the Philistines the ark was relocated to Kirjath-jearim where it remained for about 90 years before eventually being brought triumphantly by David to its resting place in Jerusalem.
A @Christadelphians Video with Steve Mansfield
*Video Description:* 📖 *Revealing Bible Talk* | Israel’s current situation is one of the most thought-provoking topics in prophecy today. In this Watchman Report, we explore the challenges Israel faces and the divine solution found in Scripture. 🔔 *Receive notifications* for weekly updates on Bible prophecy and current events! ⏳ *Video Chapters:* 00:00 - Introduction: Israel’s Current Crisis 01:15 - Historical Context: Why Israel’s Struggle Matters 03:20 - Prophetic Warnings: Ezekiel 38-39 Explained 05:10 - The Divine Solution: God’s Promise to Israel 06:45 - Practical Steps for Believers Today 07:30 - Conclusion: Hope for Israel’s Future 📜 *Bible Verses Covered in This Talk:* ✝️ Ezekiel 38-39 (Gog & Magog) ✝️ Zechariah 12-14 (Israel’s Future Deliverance) ✝️ Isaiah 11:11-12 (The Regathering of Israel) ✝️ Jeremiah 30:7 (The Time of Jacob’s Trouble) 📌 *Tags:* Bible prophecy, Israel news, end times, Ezekiel 38, Zechariah 12, Watchman Report, Bible study, Christian teaching, Israel prophecy, current events 🌟 *Join the discussion in the comments!* What are your thoughts on Israel’s role in prophecy? Let’s explore together. #BibleProphecy #Israel #EndTimes #ChristianTeaching #WatchmanReport
Revelation 3 is our Lord's timeless message of warning, advice and essential attitudinal changes were required of the 3 of the 7 Turkish ecclesias Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. The first had to realise that the reputation Sardis once enjoyed was gone and they needed to wake up, repent and get back to their roots. Philadelphia, alone of the ecclesias received no condemnation, but rather they are encouraged to remain steadfast. On the other hand, the wealthy Laodicea was pitifully ignorant of their true state and needed to open the door of their hearts to the soon to be returned and door-knocking Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter 4 presents the Christ ruling with his saints in glory. The chapter is an invitation for the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ, to ascend into the political heavens through the open door and rule upon the earth. This is an encouraging vision of the kingdom on which we will elaborate on in tomorrows' comments. Chapter 4 presents the Christ ruling with his saints in glory. It is part of a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ ruling in glory with his saints - faithful believers - during the kingdom age soon to come. The Apostle John as part of the Lords bride is invited into the political heavens of rulership at the start of this vision. The first part of this vision is revealed in chapter 4 verses 2-11. John sees the throne of the Lamb surrounded by 24 elders who represent the worthy saints of all time until the resurrection. They are the 24 orders of king-priests that reign with Jesus Messiah. These 24 elders are described in verse 7 as being like the cherubim of Ezekiel 1 and the seraphim of Isaiah 6. In verses 8-11 they rightfully ascribe glory to God and His glorious Son.
There is a fair amount of promotion of the need for body building and physical fitness these days. It is a pity there is not as much – indeed more – emphasis on being spiritually fit, it is far more needed – and vital for our own eternal well-being. Our thoughts were provoked along these lines as we read today the 25 verses of the short letter of Jude.
He starts by telling us he is the brother of James, so it is usually accepted that he is another half-brother of Jesus. In Matthew 13 v.55, we see that Jesus had a (half) brother, Judas is well as one named James. We assume he is writing in his old age, he addresses ” those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ” [v.1]. Jude sees much evidence of declining faith and writes “appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” [v.3]
There is one true faith – a right way of believing and living, but some “pervert the grace of God into sensuality …” [v.4] and this in effect means they “deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.” We show we believe not only by our words but by how we live and Jude gives examples from history of so many who, although they made ‘offerings’ to God “walked in the way of Cain” and of Balaam and Korah (son of Aaron) who all had intimate knowledge of things divine but who acted in evil ways. [v.11]
Jude was obviously living in the last days of the Jewish nation, but his warnings of the approaching end are very applicable to today. “You must remember,” he writes, “the predictions of the apostles … they said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers … who cause divisions, worldly people. But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith … keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” [v.18-21] Only by such building up will we gain eternal life.
The result of genuinely doing this will be a real living relationship with our Lord “who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy.” [v.24] Let us build ourselves up to a genuine state of spiritual fitness, feeding on God’s word every day is an essential part of our diet.
We are told in 2 Timothy 3 verses 16 that "all Scripture has been breathed out by God". This includes the book of Revelation which is known in the Greek as 'the Apocalypse'. It was as its first verse tells us given to the Lord Jesus Christ by his Father who showed our Lord the matters "revealed" in that book. But having received those wonderful matters Jesus 'reveals' those matters via his angel through John the Apostle to all believers. In Revelation we have the only book in the Bible directly given to believers by the Lord Jesus Christ (1 verse 1) and encompassing blessings on the diligent readers (v3). It contains letters of advice in chapters 2-3 from the Lord which are portrayed in the opening vision of 1verses 9-20,. Each of the seven ecclesias in Turkey are told what's wrong with their attitude, and also they receive commendation for their successes. The 7 letters all emphasise faithful works that are necessary to please our Father and His Son. These works are seen in the faithful lives of His children as they strive to walk to the Father's kingdom guided daily by the energy drawn from the love of the Father and His Son and given to us through the Word of the Almighty. From this amalgam of instructions we are to be both warned and encouraged; in order for us to, like our Lord 'overcome' the world (2 verses 26-27) and so be blessed to inherit the Kingdom.
A @Christadelphians Video: The Reel Review: The Gospel of Peace – 6 Videos by Dr. Jason Hensley | Revealing Biblical Insights ### **Video Description:** 📖 **Explore the wonderful and thought-provoking teachings of Dr. Jason Hensley in this review of his 6-part series, *The Gospel of Peace*.** This breakdown uncovers Scripture’s profound message of peace, offering fresh perspectives for believers today. 🔔 **Receive notifications** for more biblical insights by subscribing and hitting the bell icon! 📌 **Chapters / Timestamps (42-min video):** 00:00 - Introduction 04:18 - The Foundation of Peace in Scripture 10:35 - Jesus as the Prince of Peace 17:50 - Living Out the Gospel of Peace 24:05 - Overcoming Conflict with Biblical Wisdom 30:22 - The Role of Peace in Prophecy 36:40 - Practical Steps to Cultivate Peace 41:15 - Conclusion 📜 **Bible Verses Covered (Category Listing):** ✝️ **Messianic Prophecy:** Isaiah 9:6 🕊️ **Peace in Christ:** John 14:27, Ephesians 2:14 🙏 **Practical Peace:** Philippians 4:6-7, Colossians 3:15 ⚔️ **Spiritual Warfare:** Romans 12:18, James 3:18 🔮 **Eschatological Peace:** Revelation 21:4 📢 **Join the discussion!** How do you practice the Gospel of Peace daily? Comment below! 📌 **Tags:** the gospel of peace, dr jason hensley, bible study, biblical peace, christian teaching, scripture breakdown, jesus prince of peace, bible verses on peace, christian living, faith and peace 🙏 **Thanks for watching!** If you enjoyed this review, please like, share, and subscribe for more biblical insights.
The first portion commences
"In the days when the judges ruled". The book sets the times, as paralleling the time of the second appendix to Judges 19-21, and is as vital in preparing us for David's kingship as the end of the last book was in establishing Saul's origins. Even the locality is the same in Bethlehem/Judah
(' the house of bread and praise'). We are told that there was literally a famine in the land at that time, undoubtedly spiritual as well as literal; a scarcity of the word of God. Ironically the man Elimelech
('my God is king'), representing what the nation should have known; yet living as though there was no king and doing what was right in their own eyes; believing sustenance could be found apart from the people of God, left for Moab. The two sons marry non-covenanted wives and die (their names also emblematic of their unfaithfulness - sickly and pining). Death overtakes them leaving faithful Naomi heirless. On hearing that "God had visited His people with bread" the three women commence the homeward journey. Orpah stays in Moab, but Ruth passionately and imploringly pleads her loyalty to Israel's God (1 verses 16-17). They arrive home at Passover- the time of the barley harvest.
Chapter 2, introduces us to faithful Boaz whose description matches that of Gideon in Judges 6. Providentially he extends to Ruth the care and compassion of the Creator to strangers and widows. She is blessed bountifully and we await developments in the unfolding story. We are impressed by the Godly environment that Boaz has created for his workers despite the deplorable spiritual conditions which prevailed throughout the nation.
Isaiah 44 announces the superabundance of blessings that God will bestow upon children responding to His gracious pleas. Verses 1-5 speak of the blessings Yahweh will give to Israel, His chosen people. Verse 5 tells of the time when their Sovereign's children identify with Him by surnaming themselves as the people of the God of Jacob. This theme is picked up in the Servant prophecies in chapter 65:15-19. In Isaiah 44:6-8 Yahweh declares that He alone is God and Israel's Saviour. That understanding is the reason that His people in verse 5 now choose to be known as the people of the God of Israel. Verses 9-20 contrast the Omnipotent Creator to dumb, useless, impotent idols. There is wonderful irony in the way that the prophet ridicules the idols and their makers. The fashioner of the graven image wearies himself in the task of making his image and uses a part of the same tree to warm himself and bake his bread. What complete folly there is in the idolater's failure to see the stupidity of idols and those that form them. Verses 21-25 tell us what the LORD was about to do in saving His people. Verses 26-28 reveal the work of Cyrus the Persian as the man chosen by Yahweh to overthrow Babylon. He would also decree liberty for the captives and send exiled Israel home to rebuild Jerusalem. This prophecy was made about one and a half centuries before Cyrus accomplished this great work of the LORD.. Cyrus' name is symbolic of his typical role, as the Lord Jesus Christ, meaning "one like the heir".
At Mizpah, a significant and important holy place in Israel, where the men of Israel swore an oath which prevented any of them allowing any of their daughters to marry any of the remaining Benjamites. With deepest regrets they puzzled over a solution. It involved 400 of the remaining, stealing wives from the Jabesh-Gileadites, who had failed to support the united campaign to eradicate the Benjamites. That city was butchered apart from the 400 virgins, who were given to the cowering remnant. Additionally there was an annual festival held at Shiloh, whence the Tabernacle resided and it was from here that the remaining wives were stolen. The book concludes with the sad epithet- “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did that which was right in their own eyes.” (21verse 25)
A @Christadelphians Video: *Video Description:* In this thought-provoking Bible talk, we explore the prophetic significance behind the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. What does Scripture reveal about their outcomes? Join us for a deep dive into Biblical prophecy and current events. 🔔 *Receive notifications* for more insightful Bible studies by subscribing and clicking the bell icon! *📌 Chapters / Timestamps:* 00:00 - Introduction 06:12 - Biblical Prophecy & Modern Conflicts 12:35 - The War in Ukraine: A Fulfillment of Daniel 11? 21:48 - Gaza in Bible Prophecy: Ezekiel’s Warning 30:15 - The Role of Russia & Iran in End-Time Events 38:42 - The Coming Peace Treaty & False Security 45:07 - How These Wars Will Ultimately End 50:23 - Conclusion & Final Thoughts 📖 *Bible Verses Covered:* ✝️ Daniel 11 ✝️ Ezekiel 38-39 ✝️ Matthew 24 ✝️ Revelation 16 ✝️ Isaiah 17 ✝️ Jeremiah 49 ✝️ Zechariah 12-14 *📚 Category:* Religion & Spirituality, Bible Study, Prophecy *Tags:* bible prophecy, Ukraine war, Gaza conflict, end times, biblical analysis, revelation prophecy, Daniel 11, Ezekiel 38, current events and bible, thought provoking bible study, revealing prophecy 🙏 Thank you for watching! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more wonderful Bible teachings!
How ironic that the unity which was lacking at the start of Judges is now evident for retribution. Verse 1 "all Israel... as one man... from Dan to Beersheba came together to destroy their brothers - 400,000 of them. On hearing the Levite's report vengeance is agreed upon. In v11, for emphasis, we have repeated "all Israel... as one man". The Benjamites, likewise, gather unitedly to fight for undeserving reprobates in a forlorn hope. The record adds, with a measure of sadness, that 700 from the tribe meaning 'son of the right hand' were left-handed ie untrue to what should be expected from them. These Benjamanites were so accurate in using their slingshots that the description was that they could hit a target of a hair's' breadth - the expression "not miss" means in the Hebrew to 'not sin' (sin is 'a missing of the mark'; we aim for perfection but we all fall short of this: see Romans 3 verse 23). The chapter concludes with the near extinction of the tribe of Benjamin - but 600 only surviving.
A @Christadelphians Video: *Video Description:** **📖 Revealing Bible Prophecy Unfold Before Our Eyes** The Israel-Iran conflict is escalating—but what does Scripture reveal about the future? Join us for an unscripted, thought-provoking discussion on how current events align with biblical prophecy. Don’t miss this timely analysis! **🔔 Receive notifications** for more updates on prophecy and global events by subscribing and hitting the bell icon! **📌 Detailed Chapters / Timestamps (60-Minute Breakdown):** 00:00 - Introduction: Why This Matters Now 05:18 - Historical Roots of Israel-Iran Tensions 12:35 - Key Bible Prophecies About Middle East Conflicts 20:50 - Ezekiel 38-39: Is This the "Gog of Magog" War? 30:15 - Daniel’s Prophecies & Modern-Day Iran 38:40 - New Testament Warnings (Matthew 24, Revelation) 45:25 - Are We Nearing the End Times? 52:10 - How Should Believers Respond? 58:30 - Conclusion & Final Encouragement **✝️ Bible Verses Discussed (Category Listing):** 📜 Ezekiel 38-39 (Gog & Magog War) 📜 Daniel 11 (Kings of the North & South) 📜 Matthew 24 (Signs of the End Times) 📜 Revelation 16 (Armageddon Preparation) 📜 Joel 3, Zechariah 12 (Israel’s Final Battles) **💬 Join the Conversation:** What are your thoughts on these events? Comment below! **📌 Tags:** Bible prophecy, Israel Iran war, end times, Ezekiel 38, Bible study, Middle East prophecy, current events and Bible, unscripted Bible talk, Revelation prophecy, Christian teaching, last days, Iran in the Bible, Israel prophecy
The tell tale words "In those days when there was no king in Israel" start the sorry saga of the final appendix of the book. They set the scene for the sad state of Benjamin from which tribe came the nation's first earthly king. An unfaithful concubine from Bethlehem-Judah in the allotment of Judah returned to her home having her Levite husband. This unnamed Levite would not, ironically, stay in Jebusite territory lest evil befall them. Instead unspeakable crimes were perpetrated upon his concubine by fellow Jewish reprobates of Jerusalem from the tribe of Benjamin. The Levite heartless husband took the carcass of the pitiful victim, who had been abused all night long by the perverted Benjaminites. The Levite dissected her into 12 parts which were sent to each tribe to invoke retribution. His actions later were copied by king Saul to arouse Israel to unite and take vengeance upon the Benjaminites. How ironic it is that Saul's own tribe: Benjamin - was almost brought to extinction in response to the Levites actions; and that Saul cuts an ox into 12 parts in the same fashion as the Levite did with his concubine.
The sad and disgraceful record of our two chapters is one of the 2 appendices to the time of the judges and occurred in Judges. The events described happened quite early in that 450 year period, at the epoch when the elders who had outlived Joshua were all dead. It is the prequel to the Samson record described in chapters 13-16. These chapters explain both the apostasy commenced by the tribe of Dan and the reasons why many of the faithful Danites did not move to the territory that was conquered by the ambitious and ruthless leaders of the tribe, against the laid back Zidonians. The story begins at the time of Moses’ grandson, whose name was changed by a scribe in the AV, to protect the reputation and esteem in which Moses was held. However the ESV tells us in 18 verse 30 that it was Jonathan the son of Gershom the son of Moses, rather than an unnamed Levite mentioned in Judges 17verse 7. Micah’s mother is a dishonest idolater who congratulates her son for confessing his theft and then his mother changes the terms of her vow. Such was the morality of those days when everyone did what was right in their own eyes ie each person was the arbiter of what was right to him, or her. Chapter 18 describes the morality of the majority of the tribe of Dan who are prepared to kidnap Jonathan the Levite. They were prepared to slaughter the enraged men of Micah’s centre of idol worship. Then they slaughtered the peaceful people of a city, 17 kilometres to the east of the Zidonian coast, rather than obey the commandment of the LORD to destroy the Canaanites and take their allotted inheritance. In that place the Danites commence the apostacy that resulted in the calf worship in Dan many centuries later in the days of Jeroboam 1 of Israel.
