This is my Bible
I am what it says I am
I have what it says I have
I can do what it says I can do
Today I will be taught the word of God
I boldly confess, my mind is alert, my heart is receptive,
I will never be the same

Much can be said about this weekly mantra. But a couple points strike me as I ponder these words. First, there is a declaration that “I am what it says I am.” I wonder how many are aware that the very word in their hands proclaims that apart from repentance and belief in the true Gospel all are “by nature children of wrath” (Ephesians 2:3). There is the declaration: “I can do what it says I can do.” I wonder how many are aware that the word proclaims regarding those without the Holy Spirit of God: “all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one” (Romans 3:12).

Finally they announce: “Today I will be taught the word of God.” There are few churches that would frankly declare “We do not preach out of the Bible.” Most churches and preachers see themselves as those in accord with the will and word of God. However, we need to be able to properly distinguish between preaching that “uses the Bible” and true “Biblical preaching.” In my listening to Mr. Osteen’s messages, there are points where he uses the Bible (quite often mishandling the text), but true Biblical preaching is not evident. What do I mean by “biblical preaching”? By “biblical preaching” I am referring to the proper proclamation of God’s once and for all revelation in the Scriptures. Allow me to outline three evidences that emerge from preaching that is truly in accordance with God’s word.

1. True Biblical Preaching Properly Recognizes Context

The cornerstone of all types of communication is context. Context reveals and highlights meaning. The Bible is no exception. In order to glean the meaning, the context needs to be understood. Biblical preaching must pay attention to the context of the Scriptures. This entails understanding the book’s context, the historical context, and the overall Biblical context. The more one is acquainted with the context of the whole counsel of God, the better one will be able to understand and communicate the meaning of the Biblical text.

2. True Biblical Preaching Properly Bridges Contexts

The Scriptures were written halfway across the world and thousands of years ago. Since this is so, the context of the ancient world needs to be properly bridged to our contemporary context in order for the word to impact. The preacher must understand the true meaning of the text in order to properly “bridge” its teaching to today’s context. The preacher must consult the whole counsel of God in order to have an informed interpretation that will make the proper parallels with the contemporary context in which we live. A misunderstanding of the meaning will produce applications that miss the mark. Let me illustrate how understanding meaning, and consulting the context of the whole counsel of God, is essential to producing proper application.

An Example

A couple years ago, Joel Osteen preached a message on healthy living. He appealed to the food laws of the Old Testament to make his point. Osteen singled out pork and shellfish and that the Bible forbids them. He states:

“In Bible times, the pig was considered unclean. It was never considered a source of food.”

After giving several quips about his perceived benefits of cutting pork and shellfish out of ones diet, Osteen concludes:

“I made changes not only for my health’s sake; I made changes to honor God. View Video

Osteen’s focus was on healthy living. There is nothing sinful about pursuing healthy living. Indeed it is good to take care of one’s “vessel.” But Osteen’s understanding of the Biblical text is off the mark, and thus he produces an application not in accordance with the word of God.

As we survey the context of the whole counsel of God, we come to understand that one of functions of the dietary laws given to Israel (as well as many other restrictive commandments) is that they were there to keep them separate from the other nations. With the coming of Christ and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit, the dietary restrictions of the Mosaic law were lifted in order for Jew and Gentile to be united in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

There were episodes chronicled in both the Gospels (Mark 7:19) and early parts of Acts (chapters 10:1-11:18) that taught these truths. The issue then came to a culmination at the Jerusalem council in Acts 15 regarding the Gentiles relationship to the codes and restrictions of the law of Moses:

The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.” (Acts 15:6-11)

The “yoke” that Peter spoke of, is the Mosaic law. The Apostles then collectively wrote a letter informing the Gentile churches they did not need to be burdened by thinking they had to observe the stipulations of the Mosaic law. Furthermore the apostle Paul exhorts the Colossians:

Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. (Colossians 2:16)

Therefore, under the New Covenant, eating pork and shellfish is a matter of Christian liberty. The preacher has no authority to bind Christians, or anyone, to abide by the food laws of the Mosaic law.

Osteen declares that his diet is to “honor God.” By implying and preaching that Christians are bound by the food laws of the Old Testament, he dishonors God by preaching a message that conflicts with the message of Jesus and His apostles. In preaching “freedom” he places his listeners into the bondage to the law of Moses, and those who place themselves under the yoke of the law are “cursed” according to the inspired apostle Paul (Galatians 3:10-13). This spiritually toxic application has taken place because of a misunderstanding of the meaning of the Old Testament dietary laws and ignorance of, or worse, rebellion against, the whole counsel of God’s word.

3. True Biblical Preaching Magnifies the Person and Work of Jesus Christ

The ultimate aim and focus of the Scriptures is the person and work of the Messiah— Jesus Christ. The Old Testament anticipates Him and promises His coming. The New Testament declares the faith delivered once and for all. All true Biblical preaching will point towards who Jesus is (the Messiah: true God and true man), what He has done (secured salvation through the cross and resurrection), and call people to the prescribed response (repent and believe in His person and work). These are the essentials and no matter what text is being stressed, all ultimately point to Christ. Furthermore, the Scriptures are there, not as an end, but as a means to come to Jesus on His terms. For He Himself declares:

You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. (John 5:39-40)

The messages that flow from Osteen and those like him are very much “life enhancement” messages that are peppered with (often out of context) Biblical texts that are cited to attempt to support their preconceived notions. There is little, if any, legitimate interaction with the Biblical text to properly understand what message the original author was conveying. Because of this, the central message of the Bible is rarely, if ever, communicated from Osteen’s pulpit.

Do Some Believers Need to Start with “Milk”?

I have heard people say of Joel Osteen’s messages: “Some new believers need to start with the easy to understand “milk,” like Joel Osteen’s messages, before moving on to the meaty stuff.” New believers indeed need to be fed the “milk” of God’s word—the basic truths that constitute authentic Christianity. The fact is this: the Bible itself defines what constitutes true “milk.” The author of Hebrews teaches:

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. (Hebrews 5:12-6:2)

The author of Hebrews wants to teach his readers about the further “meaty” portions of God’s word, but knows his readers need to be instructed again in the “milk” or basic principles. He wants to teach them about the glories of Jesus being of the priestly order of Melchizedek, but laments their continued need for basic teaching. Included in these are: repentance and faith, the resurrection of the dead, eternal judgment. These are the “milk” or basic principles of God’s word. Does Joel Osteen, and other preachers in his mold, preach such things? If not, those listening are not even getting the “milk” or elementary teachings of God’s word. If the elementary teachings aren’t even being preached, then the Gospel is absent. Where the basic teachings of the Gospel are absent, growth in grace will not result.

Accountability: The Preacher and the Listeners

The people that raise their Bible and repeat after Joel Osteen, as well as all who sit under teaching and preaching under a banner that is called “biblical,” are accountable for what they believe and put into practice. Teachers and preachers will indeed be judged according to a higher and stricter judgment, but all need to become well acquainted with the Scriptures in order to discern what is good and what is evil. The bitter irony is the very Bibles in the hands of those following Mr. Osteen and his ilk contains a very different message than that flowing from their pulpit. They may be hearing preaching “using the Bible,” but the message is certainly not true “biblical preaching.”

The apostle Paul comforted and exhorted the church in Thessalonica with the coming wrath of God to bring vindication for those who were suffering harshly for the Gospel of their King, Jesus of Nazareth. Ask yourself when the last time such truths have been driven home in your hearing of the word:

This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering—since indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you, and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed. (2 Thessalonians 1:5-10)

Such passages are plentiful in the Scriptures but are a rarity in most pulpits today. True biblical preaching does not shrink back from proclaiming the whole counsel of God. True biblical preaching recognizes the need for the complete word of God to go forth—to wound and heal, to humble and encourage, to convict and comfort. May the Holy Spirit rouse His remnant to stand in true biblical preaching—preaching that proclaims the whole counsel of God—preaching that brings authentic application that conforms the hearers to the image of Christ—preaching that magnifies and honors the name of the Magnificent One who purchased His people with His own blood. The dire need for such becomes more and more apparent as we continue to approach the last days of “the last days.”

A new page has been added to Signet Ring Ministries website that consists of online sermons and classes from Conquering King Fellowship. Sermons and teachings from Ryan Habbena, Nick Coldagelli, and others will be periodically updated on this page. You can also subscribe to these message from the main page @ www.sermonaudio.com/ckfellowship

Babylon the Great will be the greatest manifestation of the Babylon of Genesis. A supreme rebellion against the Creator.

The LORD said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.” (Genesis 11:6-7)

The words “nothing they plan will be impossible for them” gives us an idea of the unbridled characteristics of this city when the restrainer is taken out of the way.

For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; but the one who now holds it back will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way. (2 Thessalonians 2:7)

All the evil connotations of Nebuchadnezzar’s Babylon with regard to pride, idolatry, and brutality can be applied to Babylon the Great also, but to a supreme degree. She is contemporaneous with the beast she rides and is in collaboration with it.

The phrase “Mother of” is a Middle Eastern idiom for “the greatest of.” She is the greatest of prostitutes and the greatest of the abominations of the earth. Her adultery can only be against the God of Israel. There is no city, save Jerusalem, in history with a covenant of possession with God. And the greatest of abominations would necessarily have to involve the temple.

He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4)

All inhabitants of the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written in the book of life belonging to the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world. (Revelation 13:8)

The beast will set himself up as God in God’s temple, proclaim himself to be God, and receive God’s worship. A majority of Israel will worship him. The ultimate adulterous act will be worship of antichrist, Satan’s man, in the Jewish temple by the people of God. A remnant of Israel will turn to the true Messiah, Jesus and be saved. The LORD has taken vengeance for his temple (Jeremiah 50:28, 51:11) in the past and He will do so in the future. Babylon the Great (Jerusalem) will attract to it all the rebellious forces of Satan and the beast to their destruction. And so the evil city will be thrown down in a day as Sodom. But God is not finished with Jerusalem.

Put on your garments of splendor, O Jerusalem, the holy city. The uncircumcised and defiled will not enter you again. Shake off your dust; rise up, sit enthroned, O Jerusalem. Free yourself from the chains on your neck, O captive Daughter of Zion. (Isaiah 52:1-2)

Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes. Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. (Isaiah 52:8-9)

Jerusalem clothed with strength and garments of splendor is cleansed of the defiled forever (See Zechariah 14:21). She will free herself from the chains of captivity and rise from the dust to receive her King (See Jeremiah 30:8). Her watchmen see the LORD return to Zion. The ruins of Jerusalem will burst into songs of joy at their redemption. Just as Babylon the Great receives a double portion for her iniquity:

Give back to her as she has given; pay her back double for what she has done. Mix her a double portion from her own cup. (Revelation 18:6)

The redeemed Jerusalem will receive a double portion for her inheritance.

Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs. (Isaiah 61:7)

Part 6 will delve into Israel’s desire to be “one of the nations,” along with the centrality of the temple to Israel’s idolatry-adultery prior to the eternal covenant.

The interview is available for streaming and/or download at echozoe.com

Jerusalem may rule over the kings of the earth in another sense. The ten kings of Revelation 17:12-13 receive their authority along with the beast and then give their authority to the beast. The the beast (Antichrist as opposed to the final beast empire) is associated with only one city, Jerusalem. “The ruler who will come” (Daniel 9:26) puts an end to sacrifice and offering, and sets up an abomination on a wing of the temple (in Jerusalem). “The king” who will do as he pleases (Daniel 11:36) pitches his tent “at the beautiful holy mountain” which is Zion in Jerusalem (Daniel 11:45). “The man of lawlessness” (2 Thessalonians 2:3) sets himself up in God’s temple (in Jerusalem). The beast kills the two witness and their bodies lie in the street in Jerusalem. (Revelation 11: 7-10) The beast is located at Jerusalem and he rules over the ten kings.

If there is another city that Revelation 17 is speaking of, it cannot be known from scripture, including the ancient city of Babylon. Because to declare the name “a mystery” and then to name the actual city is contradictory. Babylon the Great has ultimate characteristics of the ancient city, but they are not one and the same. She is guilty of shedding blood (Rev. 17:6), just as Jerusalem was (Ezekiel 23:37,45). She kills the prophets:

In her was found the blood of prophets and of the saints, and of all who have been killed on the earth.” (Revelation 18:24)

Jeremiah chapter 51 has similar language to Revelation 18:24 which uses the phrase, “all who have been killed on the earth.” According to Jeremiah, “the slain in all the earth have fallen because of Babylon. Babylon must fall because of Israel’s slain, just as the slain in all the earth have fallen because of Babylon. (Jeremiah 51:49)

What other city is associated with blood that has been shed on the earth?

The word of the LORD came to me: “Son of man, will you judge her? Will you judge this city of bloodshed? Then confront her with all her detestable practices and say: ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: O city that brings on herself doom by shedding blood in her midst and defiles herself by making idols, you have become guilty because of the blood you have shed and have become defiled by the idols you have made. You have brought your days to a close, and the end of your years has come. Therefore I will make you an object of scorn to the nations and a laughingstock to all the countries. Those who are near and those who are far away will mock you, O infamous city, full of turmoil. See how each of the princes of Israel who are in you uses his power to shed blood. (Ezekiel 22:1-6)

The kings of the earth did not believe, nor did any of the world’s people, that enemies and foes could enter the gates of Jerusalem. But it happened because of the sins of her prophets and the iniquities of her priests, who shed within her the blood of the righteous. (Lamentations 4:12-13)

Matthew 23 also identifies Jerusalem as a city that sheds blood, especially the blood of the prophets.

And you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our forefathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ So you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of the sin of your forefathers! You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’ (Matthew 23:30-39)

Jesus says that upon Jerusalem prior to her restoration “will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on the earth.” In verse 34, prophets, wise men, and teachers will be sent to her. But she will kill, flog, and pursue them. One example is the two prophets killed in Revelation 11 who lie in the streets of Jerusalem for three and a half days. Can Babylon the Great, that contains the blood of prophets and saints, be different from Jerusalem (upon whom will come all the righteous blood that is shed on the earth and who kills the prophets)? Can these two cities be mutually exclusive?
In Luke 13:33 Jesus again associates the death of prophets with Jerusalem:

In any case, I must keep going today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem! (Luke 13:33)

The greatest prophet, the prophet foretold by Moses, is crucified in Jerusalem. Is there another city that can fulfill the characteristics of Babylon the Great? If the harlot-prostitute-adulteress motif is treated consistently then the harlot is Jerusalem. And true to the restoration theme of the prostitute we see Jerusalem restored in Revelation 21:

I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. (Revelation 21:2-3)

Jerusalem, from detestable harlot to beautiful bride beautifully dressed (compare to Ezekiel 16:10-13, Revelation 19:8) for her husband. When this fulfillment comes to pass, we see the same words of Hosea 2:23 in Revelation 21:3, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.”

Part 5 will consider the great harlot’s name, her relationship to Babylon in Genesis and God’s jealousy for his temple.

For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. (Romans 7:18-19)

Does Paul’s struggle sound like your autobiography? We are commanded by the word of God to pursue righteousness, holiness, and sanctification. The apostle Peter exhorts us: “Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul.” (1 Peter 2:11) Yet, so often we find ourselves lacking and echo Paul’s lament about our war against sin. The word of God announces God’s chosen way for sanctification and spiritual growth: But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16)

In this The Pilgrim’s Path, pastor and teacher Ryan Habbena, unpacks the biblical answer to how specifically we are called to walk by the Spirit in order to put to deeds of the flesh to death, and live lives honoring to the One who saved us.

Coming soon, Ryan Habbena and Nick Coldagelli will be broadcasting a 12 part podcast called Defending the Parable of the Fig Tree. Since its publication last September the book has produced much feedback, both positive and negative. In this series, many of the primary objections to the end-times theology the book presents will be confronted and engaged.

The podcast will be primarily designed to be an exercise in hermeneutics, not merely addressing that the critiques miss the mark, but also demonstrate both how and why. This podcast will deal with both direct and indirect critiques from a variety of sources. Ultimately, the goal of the podcast will be the same as the book – magnify the Lord’s command, and exhort believers to observe it:

“Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.” Matthew 24:32-33

Then I passed by and saw you kicking about in your blood, and as you lay there in your blood I said to you, “Live!” I made you grow like a plant of the field. You grew up and developed and became the most beautiful of jewels. Your breasts were formed and your hair grew, you who were naked and bare. Later I passed by, and when I looked at you and saw that you were old enough for love, I spread the corner of my garment over you and covered your nakedness. I gave you my solemn oath and entered into a covenant with you, declares the Sovereign LORD, and you became mine. (Ezekiel 16:6-8)

Jerusalem is depicted as a baby not cared for, despised, thrown out into an open field. (Ezekiel 16:1-5) Then the LORD passes by and gives her life. She grows and becomes beautiful. The Lord passes by again when she had become old enough for love. The Lord spreads the corner of his garment over her (this is an allusion to the Book of Ruth). He covers her nakedness. The LORD gives Jerusalem his solemn oath and enters into covenant with her. She becomes the LORD’s possession. Now remember the concept of covenant, a covenant broken, and restoration, redemption, to an everlasting covenant. The pattern of Hosea applies not only to Israel as a whole, but also to the city of Jerusalem.

I bathed you with water and washed the blood from you and put ointments on you. I clothed you with an embroidered dress and put leather sandals on you. I dressed you in fine linen and covered you with costly garments. I adorned you with jewelry: I put bracelets on your arms and a necklace around your neck, and I put a ring on your nose, earrings on your ears and a beautiful crown on your head. So you were adorned with gold and silver; your clothes were of fine linen and costly fabric and embroidered cloth. Your food was fine flour, honey and olive oil. You became very beautiful and rose to be a queen. And your fame spread among the nations on account of your beauty, because the splendor I had given you made your beauty perfect, declares the Sovereign LORD. (Ezekiel 16:9-14)

The Lord washes Jerusalem because of her ancestry, the Canaanites, Amorites, and Hittites. (Ezekiel 16:1-5) Notice the detailed language with regard to clothing, garments. Parallel descriptions of garments and adornments recur in Revelation. Jerusalem enjoys luxury in her food. She becomes beautiful and rises to become a queen. The LORD gives her splendor that makes her beauty perfect.

But you trusted in your beauty and used your fame to become a prostitute. You lavished your favors on anyone who passed by and your beauty became his. You took some of your garments to make gaudy high places, where you carried on your prostitution. Such things should not happen, nor should they ever occur. You also took the fine jewelry I gave you, the jewelry made of my gold and silver, and you made for yourself male idols and engaged in prostitution with them. And you took your embroidered clothes to put on them, and you offered my oil and incense before them. Also the food I provided for you—the fine flour, olive oil and honey I gave you to eat—you offered as fragrant incense before them. That is what happened, declares the Sovereign LORD. And you took your sons and daughters whom you bore to me and sacrificed them as food to the idols. Was your prostitution not enough? You slaughtered my children and sacrificed them to the idols. In all your detestable practices and your prostitution you did not remember the days of your youth, when you were naked and bare, kicking about in your blood. (Ezekiel 16:15-22)

Jerusalem becomes a prostitute. God’s bounty provided to Jerusalem is offered to other gods and she murders her children in that offering.

You adulterous wife! You prefer strangers to your own husband! Every prostitute receives a fee, but you give gifts to all your lovers, bribing them to come to you from everywhere for your illicit favors. So in your prostitution you are the opposite of others; no one runs after you for your favors. You are the very opposite, for you give payment and none is given to you. (Ezekiel 16:32-34)

Jerusalem is accused of prostitution with Egypt, Assyria and Babylon. She prefers them to her own husband. She provides them her illicit favors without payment. Her iniquitous desire is for foreigners, not for the LORD. The LORD goes on to say:

This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Because you poured out your wealth and exposed your nakedness in your promiscuity with your lovers, and because of all your detestable idols, and because you gave them your children’s blood, therefore I am going to gather all your lovers, with whom you found pleasure, those you loved as well as those you hated. I will gather them against you from all around and will strip you in front of them, and they will see all your nakedness. (Ezekiel 16:36-37)

Compare the above paragraph with Revelation 17:16-17.

The beast and the ten horns you saw will hate the prostitute. They will bring her to ruin and leave her naked; they will eat her flesh and burn her with fire. For God has put it into their hearts to accomplish his purpose by agreeing to give the beast their power to rule, until God’s words are fulfilled. (Revelation 17:16-17)

In Ezekiel 16:36-37 God says that he will gather Jerusalem’s lovers (nations) against her and that he will strip her and leave her naked in front of them. In Revelation 17:16 the beast and the ten horns hate the prostitute. Remember Israel-Jerusalem enters into covenant with the beast (Daniel 9:27) and the ten horns or ten kings. Are these the kings of the earth of Revelation 17:2 that have committed adultery with the great prostitute? In other words, is the covenant of Daniel the prostitution of Babylon the Great (Jerusalem) with the kings of the earth (her lovers)? They bring her to ruin, leave her naked, eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. In verse 17 we learn that God has put it into their hearts to do this. Note the peculiar concept of “nakedness” (connotative of shame or disgrace) that is common to both passages. Both passages show God acting to accomplish his purpose. (Similar “nakedness” imagery with regard to the “daughters of Zion” is used in Isaiah 3:17) The pattern of delivering the prostitute, Oholah (Samaria) and Oholibah (Jerusalem), into the hands of her adulterous lovers continues in Ezekiel 23. (See Ezekiel 23:9, 22-23, 28-30)

Later in Ezekiel 16 God compares Jerusalem to Sodom, but she is worse than Sodom.

Your older sister was Samaria, who lived to the north of you with her daughters; and your younger sister, who lived to the south of you with her daughters, was Sodom. You not only walked in their ways and copied their detestable practices, but in all your ways you soon became more depraved than they. (Ezekiel 16:46-47)

This comparison to Sodom is significant because Jerusalem is compared to Sodom in Revelation chapter 11.

Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified. (Revelation 11:8)

“Figuratively” can be translated “mysteriously.” The name “Babylon the Great” is mystery. Babylon the Great is destroyed in one day and by fire, a reference to Sodom.

Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning and famine. She will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her. (Revelation 18:8)

Jerusalem is compared to Sodom in Ezekiel 16. Jerusalem is mysteriously called Sodom in Revelation 11. Babylon the Great is destroyed as Sodom. Is “Babylon the Great” mystery for Jerusalem? In Matthew chapter 11, relative guilt of cities is spoken of by Jesus. Jesus compares Korazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum to Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom, judging the former more harshly because of his visitation to them.

Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.” (Matthew 11:20-24)

Jesus also has words for Jerusalem.

As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God’s coming to you.” (Luke 19:41-44)

A principle is revealed here with parallels in history. When the abomination of Babylonian idolatry occurred in the temple (Ezekiel 8), the glory of God left the temple and Jerusalem (Ezekiel 9,10,11). God himself commands the guards of the city to defile the temple with dead bodies (Ezekiel 9:1-7). This resulted in the destruction of the temple and the city. When Messiah, the Son of God, comes to Jerusalem and is rejected and murdered there, the temple and the city are destroyed. When the man of lawlessness sits in the temple receiving God’s worship, the temple and the city will be destroyed. The temple was destroyed on the 9th of the Jewish month of Av in both 586 B.C. and 70 A.D.(1) Will it be destroyed on the 9th of Av a third time?

The more God has revealed himself to a city, the more responsible it is to obedience. What Gentile city is as obligated to God as Jerusalem, the place of his temple and the glory of his presence? What Gentile city was in covenant to God?

Chapter 16 of Ezekiel, however, does not leave Jerusalem without hope. It ends with a reminder of an eternal covenant for her.

“‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant. Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you. (Ezekiel 16:59-60)

Part 4 will examine two cities and commonalities with regard to the “shedding of blood.”

(1) Howard, Kevin and Marvin Rosenthal. The Feasts of the Lord. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc., 1997. 150-53.

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3

As I am progressing through Revelation, I am being further convinced and convicted of the immense value this enigmatic, but powerful book has for believers in Jesus Christ. Revelation is a difficult book. It takes an extensive understanding of the first 65 books of the Bible to begin to grasp how all these matters are being “consummated” in Revelation. In short, it is the last book of the Bible for a reason.

One area that has been greatly neglected in the study of Revelation is the exhortations to the 7 churches of Asia Minor in chapters 2 and 3. These are the primary “application” portions of the book of Revelation. We are called by our Sovereign Master to hear and heed these things. In this article I want to briefly explore Jesus’ message to the church of Ephesus, as I believe it has profound implications for us as 21^st century believers.

The Commendation: “Intolerance”

The book of Revelation begins with the Risen King appearing to John in His glory. John is instructed to write matters to the 7 churches of Asia Minor. Each church has a different condition. Thus, various commendations and admonitions are given to the churches from their Lord. This section of the book begins with the church of Ephesus:

To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: “The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.” Revelation 2:1-3

Jesus is the One who “walks among the golden lampstands.” The lampstands symbolize the 7 churches (Revelation 1:20). Jesus is in their midst, both ready to commend righteousness and discipline disobedience. Jesus commends the church of Ephesus for their intolerance.

In our culture, the world “intolerance” is almost always pejorative. Yet, the church of Ephesus is given a commendation by the King because they did not tolerate “false apostles” and “those who are evil.” Although the particulars are not granted, the false apostles were surely bringing a message that did not correspond to the faith delivered once and for all to the saints. So we see in this text that both the quest and application of doctrinal purity is something that pleases the Lord. It is an endeavor that needs to be engaged by a faithful church.

The Admonition: “Abandoning Love”

Yet, not all things were well at the church in Ephesus. Jesus admonishes them regarding their leaving of their “first love”:

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. Revelation 2:4-5

“First love” could either be referring to the love that they showed earlier in their walk or the leaving of the love that was of “first importance.” The context (vs. 5) and theological ramifications imply that both may be in view here. What is the “love” that is referred to here? Most probably this is speaking of “love for God and neighbor”—this love is of “first importance” (Mark 12:28-31). In their quest for doctrinal purity, they seemed to lessen their evangelistic zeal. Instead of standing as ambassadors for the Gospel and declaring the redemptive love of Jesus Christ, they had fallen. The answer here isn’t either/or, it is both/and. We are called to both doctrinal purity and living in love for God and neighbor by announcing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a dying world and teaching the word of God to those that may be wandering from the truth. The church of Ephesus had fallen from this love, and if they did not repent Jesus was going to remove their “lampstand” entirely. Their opportunity for representation of Christ will be taken away, unless they repent. The call for them is to “repent and do the works they did at first.” They were called to return to active service in loving God and neighbor through living the Gospel-centric life, both in and outside the church.

Bridging Contexts

The church of Ephesus was commended for testing false apostles and not tolerating their teaching. Are there Christians and churches today that need to emulate the example of Ephesus in this manner? The church of Ephesus was also admonished for leaving their love of both God and neighbor, most probably by cloistering themselves, and separating themselves, not standing as God’s ambassadors and pleading with the world to “be reconciled to God.” Are there Christians and churches today that need to heed this admonition? To the informed believer who knows the lay of the contemporary Christian land, these questions answer themselves.

Start With Me, Lord

We must be careful. It is easy to look for the lack of these characteristics in others, while we come up short. In light of this, we need to hear our Lord’s commendations and admonitions and ask Him to start with us. We need to stand firm to remain doctrinally faithful in the midst of such deceptive times. In our efforts to contend for the faith we cannot become hardened to where we do not reach out, preach the Gospel to the world, and teach the Scriptures to those who may be wandering. If we fall into such a state, we are not loving God, who has commanded us to do such, and thus we are not loving our neighbor as well. In the words of Lord, we must “repent” if these virtues are lacking. Our prayer should echo David’s petition in Psalm 139:23-24:

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!

In April Andy, Ryan, and pastor Bob DeWaay of Twin City Fellowship discussed Preterism, the eschatological view that says that all (or in the case of partial preterism – some) end-times prophecy in scripture was fulfilled in the destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans in A.D. 70. That interview is available here.

For the May episode, Ryan returned to discuss the theological views of Covenant Theology and Dispensationalism. Both camps have much diversity among their adherents, so detailed analysis would have been impossible in the time given. However, Ryan gave an excellent synopsis of each side. That episode is available here.

This is what the LORD says: “Where is your mother’s certificate of divorce with which I sent her away? Or to which of my creditors did I sell you? Because of your sins you were sold; because of your transgressions your mother was sent away. (Isaiah 50:1)

In Isaiah 54 the LORD’s self identification as a husband resurfaces as he speaks to the future glory of Jerusalem. And again we see the idea of Hosea, the redemption of the rejected.

“Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated. You will forget the shame of your youth and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood. For your Maker is your husband—the LORD Almighty is his name— the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; he is called the God of all the earth. The LORD will call you back as if you were a wife deserted and distressed in spirit—a wife who married young, only to be rejected,” says your God. “For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with deep compassion I will bring you back. In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the LORD your Redeemer. (Isaiah 54:4-8)

The Book of Ruth is a case study for the marriage-redemption idea. Boaz, as the kinsman-redeemer, marries Ruth. Ruth is redeemed by her marriage to Boaz. In Ruth 3:9 Ruth asks Boaz to spread the corner of his garment over her as a symbol of this marriage-redemption. This imagery will be repeated in Ezekiel 16 between God and Jerusalem.

In Jeremiah chapter 3 the “widowhood” of Isaiah 54:4, the desertion and rejection of Isaiah 54:6, and the abandonment of Isaiah 54:7 are represented as a “certificate of divorce” given for adultery. (The estrangement between the LORD and Israel is coterminous with the end of the 490 year period prophesied in Daniel 9:24, otherwise expressed as the end of the 70th week of Daniel.)

During the reign of King Josiah, the LORD said to me, “Have you seen what faithless Israel has done? She has gone up on every high hill and under every spreading tree and has committed adultery there. I thought that after she had done all this she would return to me but she did not, and her unfaithful sister Judah saw it. I gave faithless Israel her certificate of divorce and sent her away because of all her adulteries. Yet I saw that her unfaithful sister Judah had no fear; she also went out and committed adultery. Because Israel’s immorality mattered so little to her, she defiled the land and committed adultery with stone and wood. In spite of all this, her unfaithful sister Judah did not return to me with all her heart, but only in pretense,” declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 3:6-10)

Israel and Judah have both committed adultery in the eyes of the LORD their husband. But the LORD is going to choose and bring some to Zion, redeem them.

“Return, faithless people,” declares the LORD, “for I am your husband. I will choose you—one from a town and two from a clan—and bring you to Zion.” (Jeremiah 3:14)

“But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you have been unfaithful to me, O house of Israel,” declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 3:20)

The marriage-bride-wedding metaphor is also found in the New Testament in 2 Corinthians and Revelation.

I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him. (2 Corinthians 11:2)

Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!’” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” (Revelation 19:6-9)

Remember that God’s redemption of his people both the church and Israel is through Messiah, the Son, the Lamb of God. Note the garments worn by the bride. Later we will see descriptions of dress in Ezekiel 16 and Revelation 17 and 21. Now that we have a Biblical basis for who the adultery is committed against, we will look next in Part 3 at what the Bible has to say specifically about Jerusalem.

There is another city, however, that is repeatedly associated with adultery, prostitution and harlotry. In Isaiah 1:21 the reader is introduced to a faithful city (Jerusalem) that becomes a harlot inhabited by murders.

See how the faithful city has become a harlot! She once was full of justice; righteousness used to dwell in her—but now murderers! (Isaiah 1:21)

But this harlot will become a faithful city again.

I will restore your judges as in days of old, your counselors as at the beginning. Afterward you will be called the City of Righteousness, the Faithful City. (Isaiah 1:26)

Biblical use of the word prostitute is usually in the sense of a wayward wife. In Revelation 17, 18 and 19, the great prostitute’s promiscuity is referred to as “adultery.” This implies unfaithfulness to a husband. Who could that husband be?

In Hosea 1:2 the LORD commands Hosea to take an adulterous wife. Hosea obeys God and marries Gomer (Hosea 1:3). Their second child, a daughter, receives a name from the LORD. The name, Lo-Ruhamah, means “not loved” or “not my loved one.” The reason for the name is that the LORD will no longer show love to the house of Israel.

Their third child, a son, is named Lo-Ammi by the LORD. The LORD’s reason for the name is that Israel is not His people and He is not their God (Hosea 1:9).

However, in the next verse it is said that “those who are not my people” will be called “sons of the living God.” A separation from God is indicated with a restoration to follow. Hosea 2:23 sums it up:

I will plant her for myself in the land; I will show my love to the one I called ‘Not my loved one.’ I will say to those called ‘Not my people,’ ‘You are my people’; and they will say, ‘You are my God.’” (Hosea 2:23)

God goes from calling Israel “Not my people” to calling them “You are my people.” This declaration by God (that Israel is His people and He is their God) is most important because of its repetition throughout scripture. Some other examples of this phraseology are Zechariah 8:8, Zechariah 13:9, Ezekiel 11:20, Ezekiel 14:11, Ezekiel 36:28, Ezekiel 37:23, 27, Jeremiah 24:7, Jeremiah 30:22, Jeremiah 31:33, Jeremiah 32:38, Hebrews 8:10 and Revelation 21:3. These words are always said referring to the time of fulfillment of the everlasting covenant with Israel. In Hosea 3 the LORD commands Hosea to show his love to his wife again even though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. The LORD in verse 1 commands:

Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes. (Hosea 3:1)

In verse 2 Hosea buys (redeems) his wife back. She is restored, but her harlotry cannot continue.

So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and about a homer and a lethek of barley. Then I told her, “You are to live with me many days; you must not be a prostitute or be intimate with any man, and I will live with you.” (Hosea 3:2-3)

Verses 4 and 5 give insight into the restoration God has in mind for Israel.

For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or idol. Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days. (Hosea 3:4-5)

God’s relationship with Israel is compared to a husband taking back an unfaithful wife. Do we see other instances of this restoration in scripture? Daniel 9:24 gives another view of the restoration without the harlot motif.

“Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy. (Daniel 9:24)

Daniel’s prophecy focuses on a time table of 490 years. The last seven years of this 490 will include a 42 month great tribulation, a time of trouble for Jacob (Jeremiah 30:7). And in Jeremiah 30:8-9 the restoration is described in terms of liberation of Israel from foreign enslavement so they might serve the LORD, their God.

How awful that day will be! None will be like it. It will be a time of trouble for Jacob, but he will be saved out of it. “‘In that day,’ declares the LORD Almighty, ‘I will break the yoke off their necks and will tear off their bonds; no longer will foreigners enslave them. Instead, they will serve the LORD their God and David their king, whom I will raise up for them. (Jeremiah 30:7-9)

Note that in Hosea 3:5 Israel will “return and seek their God and David their king,” and in Jeremiah 30:9 “they will serve the LORD their God and David their king.” In Jeremiah 31:31-33 the LORD refers to himself as a husband of Israel. Though Israel has broken the LORD’s covenant, she will be restored with a new covenant.

“The time is coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD. “This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. (Jeremiah 31:31-33)

Notice that at the time of the new covenant the LORD declares, “I will be their God, and they will be my people.” Part 2 of this 8 part series, will further explore the marriage language between the LORD and his “chosen people,” Israel.

About 5,000 years ago there was a global climate change. Eight humans entered an ark, and were preserved while the world was purged through water. The world today scoffs at the notion that this actually occurred. Furthermore, they find it even more incredulous that a similar event is fast approaching. The apostle Peter teaches the people of God the following in his second letter:

They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. 2 Peter 3:4-6

History will be repeated. The world will be judged, but not with water. The climate of this world is reserved for fire. This will not be fire produced by the natural means of war or atomic weapons — the Sovereign Lord needed no such means for the examples of Sodom and Gomorrah. Instead, through His own power, and angelic hosts, destruction will come upon this world. Note Peter’s continuing, inspired words:

But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. 2 Peter 3:7

This is the “global warming” humans really need to be concerned about. God is holy. He is the creator – the owner of heaven and earth. One day, He will arise and purge this world through fire. Note what John writes in the book of Revelation and how it reflects Peter’s description of the coming judgment in the “Day of the Lord:”

The first angel blew his trumpet, and there followed hail and fire, mixed with blood, and these were thrown upon the earth. And a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all green grass was burned up. The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea, and a third of the sea became blood. A third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed. The third angel blew his trumpet, and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water. The name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters became wormwood, and many people died from the water, because it had been made bitter. Revelation 8:7-11

These first three judgments are just the beginning of the systematic, unstoppable, end-times wrath of God that encompasses all facets of this world’s climate: the earth, the water, the skies, and the world’s inhabitants. This day is fixed. God has declared that this will surely come to pass. But in the midst of these descriptions of the coming time of judgment, the rays of hope and redemption shine through. Hear Peter’s exhortation:

The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

The reason that this world has not yet met global judgment is because our God is patient. He is full of mercy and lovingkindness. He is saving a people from every tribe, nation, and tongue through the preaching of the good news: that Jesus Christ has died, is raised, and is returning. The only way to escape the coming wrath is to repent of our sins and turn in faith to the One who holds the keys of Death and Hades (Acts 2:28, 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, Revelation 1:18).

The delay is for salvation. May our lives be saturated with the Gospel of Jesus Christ as we wait for His return. We know His return will be blessing and vindication for those who trust in Him and it will be terror and wrath for those who do not obey His Gospel. Paul teaches us in 2 Thessalonians 1 that His return will:

grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8

Though the world is going to be purged through fire, the “climate change” does not end there. In the wake of the systematic unstoppable wrath of God, culminating with the final conquest over the Antichrist and his minions (Revelation 19), this world will lay in ruins. We are eagerly looking for the new heavens and the new earth. This world will be renewed by the hands of the Sovereign Lord, and most importantly, justice and righteousness will reign:

Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
2 Peter 2:11-13

Climate change is coming. Let’s be sure we are at peace with the One who will bring it to pass.

Walid Shoebat was born and raised in Bethlehem, Israel to an Arab father and an American mother. He was raised a Muslim and grew up a terrorist, but when he married a Christian woman, he was challenged to examine the Bible. Today he is the founder of the Walid Shoebat Foundation. His life mission and driving passion is to bring the truth of the Bible, and contrast the persecution of Israel and Christians by Islam. Walid has spoken at many prestigious universities including Harvard, Columbia, and Stanford. He has also addressed Homeland Security, Capitol Hill, Boeing, the FBI and the Air Force Academy. (Inside cover)

Shoebat attempts to integrate Bible prophecy with the rise of Isalm. He sees a symmetry between the return of Christ and the coming of the Isalmic Mahdi. But Shoebat who is a believing Christian equates the Mahdi with the antichrist. He develops several parallels between the Mahdi and the antichrist. For example, both the Mahdi of Islam and the antichrist blaspheme by denying Jesus as the Son of God.

The warfare mentality of Islam is explored including a feigned moderation that would turn radical at the appropriate time. The warfare theme is incorporated into the antichrist’s war with God as portrayed in the Book of Revelation. Shoebat draws on his many years as a PLO terrorist.

A novel take on the beasts of Daniel chapter 7 is presented. Shoebat believes that the fourth beast is not Rome as is the prevalent view. He believes that Rome was just an extension of Greece and that the beast that follows is Islam and its ruling caliphate.
The beast that receives a head wound so as to be killed is the Ottoman empire that expired in 1924. This empire is now near a miraculous revival.

Shoebat writes that Babylon the Great of Revelation chapters 17 and 18 is the Saudi Arabian peninsula. He also applies prophecy regarding Edom to Saudi Arabia because Edom extended to the south for an undetermined distance.

The most compelling approach presented in the book is with regard to Gog and the nations with him in Ezekiel chapters 38 and 39. Shoebat sees Magog, Meshech, Tubal, Gomer, and Beth Togarmah as located in modern Turkey and Syria. Persia, Cush, and Put are identified as Iran, Sudan-Somalia, and North Africa respectively. To him the significance of all these places is that they are Muslim. He rules out Russia because of the weak translation of “Rosh” to “Russia” and because Russia is not currently Muslim.

The weakest part of the book was Appendix C, The Three Woe Trumpets. Shoebat thinks that the star that falls from Heaven unto the Earth (in Revelation 9:1) and is given the key to the bottomless pit is a heretical minister of religion. He cites the stars in Revelation 1:20. According to Shoebat this star is Mohammed. The explanation of the Three Woes falls apart from there.

One of the benefits of the book is its Middle Eastern centric framework and its recognition of Jerusalem as the center for Bible prophecy. At times it drifts rather far afield by too confidently assigning Biblical symbols to modern people, places, etc. Still, for students of prophecy I found the book an interesting read.

In the first chapter of Matthew we read the royal genealogy of Jesus. The Messianic credentials are established. Jesus is the descendant of Abraham, Judah, David, and Zerubbabel — highlighting the fulfillment of God’s promises throughout the Law and Prophets. But in the text we are introduced to a problem; a crisis:

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. Matthew 1:18-19

Here is the crisis: Joseph resolved to divorce her. He believed she had been unfaithful. And since, as far as we know, there had never been a virgin conception prior to this, who can blame him? Joseph is described as being “just.” Even though Joseph and Mary were betrothed, this was considered binding in the first century Jewish culture. According to the law, Joseph could have had her stoned. But Joseph is described as being “just” by not wanting to openly shame her, and resolved to end the matter quietly. How is this “just”? Kenneth Bailey suggests that Isaiah’s “servant prophecy” of Isaiah 42:1-6 may be the source of this description of justice, which describes the coming “Servant” as bringing forth justice, though not “breaking a bruised reed” nor “quenching a dimly burning wick.” Bailey’s comments on this passage:

“Joseph looked beyond the penalties of the law in order to reach out with tenderness to a young woman who was no doubt bruised and exhausted. Perhaps he saw Mary as “a dimly burning wick.” The prophetic definition of justice required a compassionate con cern for the weak, the downtrodden and the outcasts in their need. In his dealings with Mary, Joseph acted out of this prophetic definition of justice. Without that prophetic understanding of justice embedded in Joseph’s mind, Jesus would not have been born. Joseph is, therefore, not a passive, mute figure. Rather, he acts as a strong, thoughtful person whose bold decision at a point of crisis saves the life of the mother and her unborn child.”1

Yet, the crisis of Joseph “putting away” Mary needed to be averted. If Joseph did not take Mary as his wife, the royal line would not reach the Son. So God in his sovereign wisdom and mercy intervened:

But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet. “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. Matthew 1:20-25

Joseph obeyed. His just actions preserved the life of the mother and her Child. He listened to the angels amazing announcement of the good news and proceeded to take Mary as His wife. Thus, through God’s sovereign orchestration the child in Mary’s womb became the heir to the promises. Joseph was given the indelible privilege of giving the Messiah his name, the name by which every knee will bow: “And he called his name Jesus.”

The Father has orchestrated His sovereign symphony of salvation history. To the called: It is marvelous in our eyes. Through the person and work of Jesus the Messiah, the promise to Abraham, that in his descendant all the nations would be blessed, is fulfilled. We who repent and believe are saved from our sins and have peace with God through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of ethnicity. We bow before the risen King, acknowledging Him as Lord and Christ. We should reflect on the justice of Joseph and seek to emulate his example. Yet, the most important implication to remember is this: Jesus is no longer a baby. The Word made flesh grew to a man and willingly went to the cross to save His people from their sins. He is now the risen King who, though once laid in an animal trough, will one day appear in the sky revealing Himself in glory as the eternal King. In the “season of peace,” we do well to ask “Am I at peace with Him?”

(1) Kenneth E. Bailey, Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes, (Downers Grove: InterVarsity Press, 2008) 44.

Songs of Soteria, the twelve track CD by Ryan Habbena, is due for release in February of 2010. This CD will will consist of a spectrum of songs expressing Christ-centered, Biblical theology. Uptempo worship songs, acoustic sketches, symphonic ballads, and instrumental suites comprise this inaugural effort. Check back for further information on release, and make sure to sign up for The Pilgrim’s Compass for updates.

1. The Pilgrim Song
2. Forevermore
3. Battle Cry of the Redeemed (Arise O Lord)
4. Arrival of the Lamb (From Glory to Glory Part I)
5. Jerusalem, Do You Know?
6. A New Song
7. The Promise
8. Pierced (From Glory to Glory Part II)
9. O Captain of My Soul
10. Sovereign
11. In the Days of Eternity
12. The Lion Returns (From Glory to Glory Part III)

“Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near; so, you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.”

Have you learned the “parable of the fig tree?” If not, you are commanded by Jesus to learn this lesson. End times speculation and scenarios continue to flood the land. How are we to discern the true markers of Christ’s return from the false? The Lord has announced the signs and conditions that will herald His return. We must, therefore, read and pay attention. For He Himself warned us: “Take heed; behold, I have told you everything in advance.” (Mark 13:23)

In this book, pastor and teacher Ryan Habbena explores the Scripture’s primary texts regarding the second coming of Christ and the events that surround this glorious event. By taking the reader through the Olivet Discourse, the Thessalonian Epistles, the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation, Ryan teaches how we should learn and apply the “parable of the fig tree” in order to be watching and well prepared for the return of the King of Kings.

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Earlier this month, I was blessed to attend a breakfast with Jerry Bridges. For those unfamiliar with this man, he has worked with the Navigators for nearly 50 years and is widely known for his writings on sanctification. In 1978 he wrote a bestselling book titled “The Pursuit of Holiness.” He followed up this work with titles such as “The Practice of Godliness,” “The Discipline of Grace” and “Respectable Sins.” In a small group setting, Mr. Bridges gave us a stirring message from the Scriptures and we had ample time to interact with him. While there were many memorable moments, two matters really “hit their mark,” stirring me to remembrance to how I need to pursue conformity to the image of Christ.

I. Pursue Sanctification Because Of The Gospel

Bridges preaches and teaches Gospel-driven sanctification. The call of conformity to the image of Christ is given throughout the Scriptures. However, it becomes easy for us to become, in Bridge’s words, “duty-driven” rather than “gospel-driven.” To further define, we often see the pursuit of sanctification as something we must do to earn or remain in God’s favor. This thought may be a subtle thought in the believer’s mind. Yet, we still can fall into this erroneous way of thinking. Bridges clearly and boldly established that we are called to pursue conformity to the image of Christ because we are saved. We are totally pure in the eyes of God because what Christ has done on the cross. We are totally secure in the love of God because of what Christ is doing right now—interceding for us at God right hand. We are destined for the resurrection because of His promise to raise us up with Christ when He returns. These are the truths that should be spurring us on to good works, and causing us to pursue holiness. A Scriptural passage that teaches this truth is Romans 12:1. After declaring the glorious truths of salvation by grace through faith throughout the first eleven chapters, the apostle Paul exhorts believers:

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

At the time of our breakfast, Mr. Bridges was on the threshold of his 80th birthday. At a time when most people in our culture are long retired, this man is traveling the globe, preaching the Gospel and teaching the word. Yet as he spoke, Mr. Bridges frequently noted his continuing struggle with sin. There have been times in the past I would (wrongly) assume that by the time the body reaches its elderly state, the deeds of the flesh will have been brought to the point of a virtual non-existence. My time with Mr. Bridges reminded me of this subtle, misguided notion. Sin is intensive. The closer we get to our Savior, the more we see the depths of our own sinfulness. Romans chapter 8 teaches our continual contention with corruption.

So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh—for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. (Romans 8:12-13)

While we walk the way to glory, this text declares our ongoing battle: we must always be “putting to death the deed of the body.” This contention will not reach its end until we are with the Lord. Therefore, may we all gird ourselves with the expectation of conflict with sin in order to be faithfully contending until we enter His glory.

Running The Race

For those of us who believe in the person and work of Jesus Christ, our beloved King has saved us, secured us and destined us for the resurrection. He has lived the perfect life and our sins were nailed to cross. “Sin had left a crimson stain, and He washed us white as snow.” We are guaranteed to finish the race—our risen Lord has provided everything we need. And more than this, He is the One that will carry us across the finish line by His all sufficient power. I was both humbled and motivated by Mr. Bridges message that morning. May these biblical principles be fixed in the hearts of all those who love Jesus Christ, as we eagerly await the return of our King.

Our Submission

The first seven verses of Romans 13 are foundational for understanding how Christians (and all men) are to relate to the governing authorities. Paul declares in Romans 13:1-2, Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities for there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. Like marriage, God created the institution of human government and in every age and every nation, He has established the authorities that exist. Daniel 2:20-21a confirms this saying, Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him. It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings. We are to submit to the governing authorities for in doing so we are submitting to God who is the source of all authority. Interestingly, the Roman government that was ruling when Paul wrote Romans was an oppressive, pagan, totalitarian empire that believed Caesar was divine. Nevertheless, Paul does not make submission to government conditional based on the manner in which they rule. Thus, our submission should (and must) be withheld only when the authorities command us to do something God forbids or forbid us from doing something God commands.

Paul continues in Roman 13:3-5 saying, For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. Governments are not only ministers for good but also God’s agent of wrath to punish those who do wrong. This should cause us to be thankful for civil government as even wicked governments act as restrainers of human evil. Regarding what a society without government might be like, the 19th century Scottish preacher Robert Haldane said, “Without the powerful obstacle presented by civil government to the selfish and malignant passions of men, it would be better to live among the beasts of the forest than in human society.” (An Exposition of the Epistle to the Romans [MacDill AFB, Florida: MacDonald Publishing Co., n.d.], p. 581)

Paul finishes this section of Romans 13 by telling us to render to all what is due them whether tax, custom, fear or honor. However, as we’ll see, these are not the only debts we owe those in authority.

Our Intercession

Paul says in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This command may be difficult to obey, depending on your opinion of those in government and how they govern. Unlike failing to publicly submit to government, which often brings punishment, failing to intercede for civil rulers may be done without fear of their retribution. Consequently, many of us who would never consider rebelling publicly against the authorities, do so privately by failing to make intercession for them. We should follow the example of our Master who lives to make intercession according to Hebrews 7:25, Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. Additionally, Paul tells us that we should be thankful for human governments. Though they are not perfect, as nothing administered by fallen men can be, we are far better off with them than without. May we, with great joy and gratitude, intercede regularly for the governing authorities that God has established. In doing so, let us never forget that, ultimately, we trust not in kings or lords, but in the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Our Blessed Hope

Only time will tell if America’s current political path leads to prosperity or ruin. However, regardless of what the near future holds for the United States, the fate of every nation in existence when the Antichrist comes to power will be the same—join him or be conquered by him. In light of this, we should commit ourselves to endeavors that will bear eternal fruit as we submit to and intercede for the governing authorities. As we do, let us rejoice knowing that the day is coming when our glorious Lord shall return to establish His kingdom in perfect justice and righteousness. We will then be eternally free of fallen, sinful legislatures and politicians as we reign with our conquering King forever. Until then, may we live obedient, peaceable, Gospel-centered lives continually looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus (Titus 2:13).