Christian Sacrifice

A QUESTION: 

Why did JESUS say that we cannot be His disciples if we do not first say goodbye to ALL our belongings at Luke 14:33?

MY REPLY:

First off, please consider additional verses... 

Luke12: "15 Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; *life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’* 16 And he told them this parable: ‘The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, “What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.”18 ‘Then he said, “This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, ‘You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.’”20 ‘But God said to him, “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?”21 ‘This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich towards God.’"

1John2: "15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. 16 For *everything in the world* – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – *comes* not from the Father but *from the world.* 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever."

From these first two verses, I am hoping that you have derived the same understanding that I am about to express. Our eternal life does not result from our belongings. Those who work for them and store them up, sacrifice being "rich toward God". How do we know that? Jesus said; "You cannot slave for both God and for riches" (Matt.6:24). Riches and belongings of the world, are sourced in the world. Such riches do not come from the Father. They are not His blessing, but are a blessing from the Devil (1John5:19; Luke 4:5-6).

If we consider the example of Jesus (Heb.12:2; 1Pet.2:21; 1Cor.11:1), we know that he did not accrue worldly wealth (Matt.8:20). Jesus was not a hypocrite (Matt.6:19-21).

The reason why it is important to see the source of worldly wealth as able to come from the Devil, is because Satan uses such riches to corrupt those seeking to slave for God (1Tim.6:6-11; Luke 4:5-6; 1John2:15-16; Job 1:8-12). See in the verses of Job 1:8-12 that Satan tried to break the integrity of Job, by using the trauma of losing one's belongings (Heb.10:34). We must pay attention to this tactic of Satan, because if any Christian is attached to his property, that will make the keeping of integrity all the more difficult, should Satan strip us of it, or make us choose between the two (Luke22:31; 1Tim.6:9; 2Tim.3:12; Phil.3:7-8; Matt.19:21-24,27-29). God knows what we need, and will provide it (Luke 12:29-31; 2Pet.1:3).

Our possessions can include more than material wealth. In fact, anything we form an attachment to in this life, can be used by Satan to tempt us... either through a desire to gain, or a fear of loss. Satan is ruthless, corrupt, and merciless. A Christian who intends to complete the full course of Christ, must be willing to let go of more than material possessions. Remember the trials of Job. After Satan was done stripping him of material wealth, he then went after Job's loved ones (Job 1:13,18-22), and finally, after Job's own flesh (Job 2:4-7).

Will Satan test Christians in this same way? Yes. That is the reason for the guidance of Jesus, found at Matt.10:37; 16:24. There we learn that Satan can even try using the love we have for our own family, against us, to separate us from our devotion to Christ. How might that happen? Jesus explained; Luke 12:51-53; Matt.10:36-37

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/07/a-mans-enemies-will-be-persons-of-his.html)

We may also have formed attachments to our communities. If the approval of an authority or our peer group means more to us than the approval of God; we again risk deserting Christ (John15:18-21; 16:2; Mark 13:13; Heb.13:13). We must be willing to even lose our very life as we know it, for the sake of the truth (Mark 8:35; Rom.6:5; Phil.3:8-10).

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/05/he-who-seeks-to-save-his-life-will-lose.html

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/symbolic-death-by-means-of-world.html

https://pearl-obeymen.blogspot.com/

So when we read at Luke 14:33... "So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own."; this is not speaking of literally stripping ourselves of every possession to walk about naked, cold, and starving. It means that as Christians, we must have the attitude, expectation, and willingness to let go of anything that comes between our heart and the will of God for us (1John2:17; 1Cor.7:31). That includes possessions, relationships, our health, and acceptance by our world. If we are not willing to put godly devotion before our possessions; we have seen sufficiently demonstrated that Satan will use such an attachment, to deprive us of lasting treasure in heaven.

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/02/dedication-and-baptism.html

I have provided links to other posts, for additional scriptural information regarding each of the assertions I have raised. If you want more information about an aspect of my reply, the corresponding link should suffice. If it is lacking, contact me about your additional needs.

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

PART II -- CHRISTIAN SACRIFICE during the End

(under construction)

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hosea10%3A12%3B+Matt.6%3A33%3B+Jer.4%3A3%3B+Luke9%3A61-62%3B+17%3A31-32%3B+Mark10%3A29-31%3B+Luke14%3A10%3B+Job41%3A1%2C9-11%2C24-34%2C8%3B+Luke14%3A31-33%3B+1John2%3A14-17%3B+Phil.3%3A13%2C8%3B+1Tim.6%3A7-8&version=NIVUK

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Keep on guard, according to God's Word

 Question received:

Hello Pearl, I am glad I found your blog. I believe what I am reading because of your many cited scriptures. But I am still very afraid of being tricked once again, as I feel I was mislead by the JWs. Can you help me with that?

My Reply:

"Being tricked" is unfortunately, a real possibility. Jesus warned us about false prophets and Christs ("Christ", means anointed) (Matt.24:4-5,24-25).... 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ_(title)#Etymology

....and Revelation prophesied that a prominent false prophet would exist in the time of the end, and even mislead God's elect/saints/anointed and trample down God's Temple priesthood/saints.

[Rev.19:20; 16:13; 13:11,7,10; Luke21:24; Rev.11:2; Col.2:8; 2Cor.11:4; Rev.2:20; 2Cor.11:3; 1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14; Dan.11:31-33,36-37; 2Thess.2:4,1-4 : (1Cor.3:16; Eph.2:20-22; 1Pet.2:5; Rev.11:2)].

But Jesus also told us how to tell the difference between his faithful slaves/true prophets, and wicked stewards/false prophets. It is essential that all those seeking God, become familiar with that divine advice (Ps.119:9). He describes the difference between those acting faithfully and those not (Luke12:37-46; Matt.7:15-20). 

In that regard, I offer you the scriptures in these links: (#1. https://pearl-finetrees.blogspot.com/) (#2. https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/08/who-really-is-matt2445.html)

The scriptures are the most important in any letter or link I send to you. The scriptures pop up in the links, if you are on a supporting device and hover your cursor over them. If you are on a cell phone, go to the bottom of the page and click on "View Web Version". That will at least make the scriptures accessible as a link.

I don't want to give you too much at once, but there is a lot of vital information that you need at this time. If you finish the links above and want more, I will give you a link to a 4-part series (an introduction, plus 3 articles)

https://pearl-anillustration.blogspot.com 

(That's the Introduction link. Links to the other 3, are included there inside that article)

I also suggest an article about Jesus' words at Mark13:14, which words warn us to "Flee!", when we are able to discern the abomination of desolation/disgusting thing, standing in the holy place (also at Matt.24:15-16; Luke21:20-22; 17:30-32,33-35,36-37). 

[In case you want to learn where to flee.... (Matt.24:16,41; Luke 17:35,31,37 -"mountains"///eagles gathering where the slain are), See: https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/07/a-segment-of-conversation-whose.html ] 

(If you wonder whether Luke17:37 says vulture or eagle, here is a link: http://eagle-or-vulture-obadiah.blogspot.com/)

Since that Idol ("abomination/disgusting thing") of destruction ("desolation") is now existing "in the holy place"/God's Temple; it is crucial that we all discern it, and flee from it.

https://pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com

I have given you a lot to chew on and digest. Take your time, always considering the cited scriptures and how they guide us. I am here for you anytime, if questions arise, and I will do my best to supply the scriptures you need to guide you.

Love in Christ,

Pearl

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Addition to "How to pray"

 Addition to the post: (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2019/10/how-to-pray.html)

as follows:

Dear Pearl,

My question is about prayer and I think I had mentioned it to you before and you sent me to your blog about prayer.

Individuals have been tortured and suffered from the beginning of mankind. I don't believe that is God's will but I think I understand that he can't intervene without it involving Satan. If our prayers are to help people, is it only in a spiritual way?, that you cannot pray just stop what their physical suffering is? I know I hope you understand my question but that's what I'm struggling with if you could direct me to scriptures that could help me understand.

Personally, I have prayed since I was a little girl. I've been through anything you can possibly imagine and finally I think I found truth. But I just don't understand what I should pray for. I believe I'm being tested. What do I need to do? I would appreciate any help you could give me thanks

---- My Reply:

I hope that these scriptures help to fill your need. (2Pet.1:5-8; John15:8,12; Eph.6:18; 5:1-2; Heb.6:10-12; 10:24; 2Thess.1:4; 1John3:23; 2:3-6; 2Cor.7:1) 

Jesus asked for his cup of suffering to be removed. But then he added, "Not as I will, but as you will", meaning that he was willing to accept the testing by Satan that God allowed (Matt.26:39). God allows that testing, so we can prove our integrity and be rewarded (1Pet.4:1; Luke 22:31; James 5:11). We are told of Jesus; "For the joy that was set before him, he endured" suffering (Heb.12:2). Paul too, spoke of a thorn in his flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment him (2Cor.12:7-10). When he asked 3x for that to be removed, he was told, "My undeserved kindness is sufficient for you". In other words, Paul had what he needed to prove faithful. 2Tim.3:12 tells us, that all who devote their life to God, are tested/persecuted. That is why the scriptures I gave you, often mention endurance and perseverance. Jesus is our master and exemplar (1Pet.2:21). We are to walk in his footsteps, in order to receive the crown of life which God gives to all who prove their love for Him (1Pet.5:10; James1:12,4; Luke 21:19).

Addition to TRUMPETS

 Addition to "Trumpets" (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2020/11/a-question-i-received-had-question.html)

as follows:

Josh.6: " March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. 4 Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets." 

Seven reminds us of the seven spirits of God, sent out into the earth (Rev.5:6), represented on the head of Christ, as 7 horns (kings), each having an eye (lamp Matt.6:22; Rev.4:5) (spiritual sight/Matt.13:16; 2Cor.4:18; 1John1:1). Those 7, are sent out by Jesus, into God's land, the 7 congregations (Rev.1:20; Matt.5:15; 10:23). 

 If each day that the priests with the seven trumpets (Rev.8:2), marched around Jericho's wall, represent the testimony each prophet gave, during his own day; then it is worth considering the seventh day. - That last day was different. On the 7th day, the wall was to be encircled, 7 times... repeating the previous days, plus 1, for the last day. It was then on the 7th day, encircled 7 times, while all 7 priests are blowing their trumpets, that the wall collapses. - We see that the 7th prophet differs from the previous 6. The 7th prophet, possesses the message/voices/spirit/bowls, of all seven prophets (Rev.10:7,3; 21:9; 17:1; Zech.3:9). When those bowls are finished being poured out (Rev.16:1; 21:9; 15:1; 11:15),  the end has come! (Rev.10:7)

TRUMPETS

A QUESTION I RECEIVED:

 I had a question about the trumpets. I’ve always been kinda confused about them. Are these verses all referring to the same trumpet?

“in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we will be changed.” 1 Cor 15:52

“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the archangel’s voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16

“He will send out his angels with a loud trumpet, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.” Matthew 24:31

“The seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven saying, The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15

MY REPLY:

First, we learn what a trumpet is, at Isa.58:1 "Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the descendants of Jacob their sins." -- A "trumpet" is a voice that announces a warning to repent/battle alongside God. I suggest re-reading all your verses, replacing "trumpet", with "voice", to gain initial understanding.

1Cor.15:52; 1Thess.4:16; Matt.24:31; Rev.11:15

The last trumpet, is that of the 7th angel. To learn about that, read Rev. ch.10. 

Rev.10

- That chapter is about the 7th angel/star and his trumpet/voice. Verse 7 (Rev.10:7) shows us, that God announces to the seventh angel, the accomplishment (and understanding) of all His mysteries (Rev.1:1; 2:17; 3:12; Prov.9:1; Rev.17:9; 22:6). We see at verse 3 (Rev.10:3) that the voice of that one, "shouts like that of a lion" and when he cries out, that all "seven thunders raise their voices" (Matt.10:20). That one has the voice (trumpet) of Christ (the "lion of Judah") (Rev.5:5-6,10; 3:21; 11:3,5; Prov.19:12; Jer.17:25; Rev.22:16) AND, the voice of all God's prophets (7 trumpets/7 thunders/7 lamps/7 spirits of God/7 pillars) (Rev.10:3; 21:9). God's prophets, speak His words (and Jesus' message) (Matt.10:20;  Eze.3:4; Rev.11:3; 22:6). This one (7th angel), whose voice causes the seven thunders to utter their own voices (Rev.10:3) (his voice contains the message of all the prophets who thunder God's voice -Job 37:5; Ps.29:3; Rev.4:5; Matt.10:20). He is also the 4th living creature, who gives the past prophets (seven lamps/spirits before God's throne - 1Cor.14:32; Rev.5:6; 4:5; Matt.5:15), a voice once again (Rev.15:7; 21:9; 17:1). As you see from the last verses, that 4th living creature, is also one of the 7 angels... the seventh one described in Rev.ch.10.

The last enemy, is death (1Cor.15:26). When that enemy is conquered during Armageddon, the dead rise. 1Thess.4:16 is describing the return of Christ (John11:25-26). Yet he told us that he is "coming on/with the clouds" (Rev.1:7; Dan.7:13; Matt.16:27; 24:30; Mark 13:26; Luke 21:27; 1Thess.4:17; Rev.11:3,12)... his two witnesses (Rev.11:3,12; 1Thess.4:17; Heb.12:1). 

That 7th angel is in the role of Moses and Elijah ("two witnesses" -Matt.17:3), for obvious reasons [God's people are captive (Luke 21:24; Rev.13:10; Col.2:8) (Moses) and Idolatry reigns (Rev.2:20; 17:2; 13:7-8; 1Cor.6:15) (Elijah)]. This is why the seventh angel, is robed with a cloud (Rev.10:1), because he is 'enrobed' with the identity of Jesus' two witnesses/cloud, and has received that assignment (Isa.61:10; Rev.19:7). 

Those with the seventh angel/two witnesses, are the "two lampstands"/congregations/churches of support (Rev.1:20; Matt.5:15; 11:3-4; 1:20; John8:17).

Your citation of Matt.24:31 states that "angelS" will be sent out, with one "loud trumpet". That is because, once again, the 7th angel has the voice of all 7 angels (Rev.10:3). At Rev.11:15, again we see that "loud voiceS in heaven" are heard when the 7th angel blows his single trumpet. 

How might this take place in the physical realm? This last prophet (7th) and watchman (4th), opens the scroll of Revelation to the seven congregations (Rev.1:11; Matt.10:23). He is enabled to do so, through the interpretations provided by the voices/trumpets of his preceding prophets, who spoke for God (Gen.40:8; Rom.15:4; 1Cor.10:11; 2Tim.3:16)... once again, giving them voice, through that one's own declaration.

Here is Rev.10 -- https://classic.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=rev10&version=CSB

Suggested posts: https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/11/resurrectionjudgmentlife-and-death.html

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/03/messenger-of-covenant.html

ADDITION:

Josh.6: " March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. 4 Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets." 

Seven reminds us of the seven spirits of God, sent out into the earth (Rev.5:6), represented on the head of Christ, as 7 horns (kings), each having an eye (lamp Matt.6:22; Rev.4:5) (spiritual sight/Matt.13:16; 2Cor.4:18; 1John1:1). Those 7, are sent out by Jesus, into God's land, the 7 congregations (Rev.1:20; Matt.5:15; 10:23). 

 If each day that the priests with the seven trumpets (Rev.8:2), marched around Jericho's wall, represent the testimony each prophet gave, during his own day; then it is worth considering the seventh day. - That last day was different. On the 7th day, the wall was to be encircled, 7 times... repeating the previous days, plus 1, for the last day. It was then on the 7th day, encircled 7 times, while all 7 priests are blowing their trumpets, that the wall collapses. - We see that the 7th prophet differs from the previous 6. The 7th prophet, possesses the message/voices/spirit/bowls, of all seven prophets (Rev.10:7,3; 21:9; 17:1; Zech.3:9). When those bowls are finished being poured out (Rev.16:1; 21:9; 15:1; 11:15),  the end has come! (Rev.10:7)

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Does Hebrews ch.1 verse 5, disprove Jesus as being an Angel?

Comment received: 

I was convinced that Jesus could not be an angel, by Heb.1:5. 

My Response: 

When we in English, see the word "angel", we think of mighty spirit beings that were never human. But I learned that the original Greek word that was written, is "angelos". For some unknown reason, it is translated as "angel" but should not be.    Why?    Well, all the other Greek words of the New Testament, are translated into English, but "angelos" is not. The word is only Anglicized. The English translation of "angelos" is "messenger". That is the definition... not "angel" (meaning a spirit creature)  https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?t=kjv&strongs=g32  

If you look up the Greek word that the Bible used to describe John the Baptist (at Mark 1:2), it is "angelos". /// https://www.scripture4all.org/OnlineInterlinear/NTpdf/mar1.pdf  

Here is Mark 1:1-4: "The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, 2 as it is written in Isaiah the prophet: ‘I will send my messenger ("ANGELOS") ahead of you, who will prepare your way’ –3 ‘a voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.”’4 And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness,preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." 

It is unfortunate that when translating "angelos", translators use two different words... "messenger" (as they should), and "angel", which is not really a translation.... it is just a shortened Greek word. 

To illustrate...  The French word for "book", is "livre". If I am translating a letter from French to English, I should translate "livre", into "book".  If I only take off the "e" and translate "livre" into "livr"... Are English readers going to know that "livr" is a "book"? No. In fact, they may even construct their own idea about what a "livr", is. They have room to assume that this source of information is an encyclopedia or computer. Yet that is not the precise meaning of "book". 

That is what has happened with "angel". It is not a spirit being. It simply means, "messenger".  If we think about this fact; the removal of that constraint opens the possibility that the "angels" in Revelation are human. That also opens up the fact that Jesus Christ, who according to scripture was God's messenger to the world, could therefore also be an "angelos". Here is only one of many scriptures that prove that:  "For I have never spoken on My own initiative or authority, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment regarding what to say and what to speak." (John12:49) (John8:42; 1:14; Heb.1:2; 1Tim.2:5)  

What then, about your verse at Heb.1:5?  The context of Heb.1:1-9, explains the reason why Jesus Christ is special, in comparison to his many brothers who also become messengers of God (Matt.10:20,40; 2Cor.5:20; Jer.5:14; Rev.11:5).  He is the firstborn among them (Rom.8:29; 2Cor.3:18; 2Pet.1:4) and is the means by which his bride members, receive life (Eph.5:23,25; Rev.5:9-10; John1:4; John14:6; 5:40).  Jesus Christ is the only one to become God's direct Son (John3:16; Heb.1:5; John1:14).  Through Jesus, others also become sons of God (John1:12-13; Gal.3:26; 4:6; Ps.45:16; Isa.9:6), just as a grandson becomes a son of his grandfather, because there is no distinction in the Bible, between direct sons and subsequent generations (Luke 3:8).  

The uniqueness of Jesus as he compares to the rest of God's messengers, is explained in Heb.1:1-3,4-6,7-9,14. (Heb.2:16; Gal.3:29).  Each of those verses in Heb.1:1-9 is further explained, by additional scriptures, which help to clarify what is meant... 

Heb.1:"1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets (GOD'S ORIGINAL MESSENGERS) at many times and in various ways,  2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, (spokesman/messenger/the Word/Logos)  whom he appointed heir of all things (Matt.28:18-20;  11:27; Eph.1:22), and through whom also he made the universe. (John1:3)  3 The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being (Phil.2:5-7)(2Pet.1:4; John10:34-35; Ps.82:6), sustaining all things by his powerful word (see John5:24). After he had provided purification for sins, (Rev.5:9-10; 7:14) he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven (Heb.1:3; Luke22:69; Ps.110:1; 1Cor.15:25)  4 *So he became as much superior* to the angels (other "MESSENGERS") as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs." (Rev.19:16; 1:5)  ////[(Jesus is the foundation cornerstone to God's spiritual Temple of living stones -Eph.2:20-22; 1Pet.2:5). Jesus has "inherited" a superior name (Ps.45:7 CSB), which he shares with the faithful victors (Rev.3:12; 2:17; Isa.62:2). It is a name that champions the peerless sovereignty of God (Rev.12:7; 7:10; 15:2) in opposition to those who champion the peerlessness of the Wild Beast (Rev.13:4).] NOTE: ("Michael" means; "Who is like God?") //// 5 For to which of the angels ("messengers") did God ever say,‘You are my Son; today I have become your Father’? (Matt.3:17; Ps.2:6-9; Rev.3:21; 2:26-27) Or again,'I will be his Father and he will be my Son’? (1Chron.17:10-14; 2Sam.7:13-16) 6 And again, when God brings HIS FIRSTBORN into the world, he says,‘Let all God’s angels (messengers) worship him.’ (Matt.28:9; Luke 24:52)  (John1:51; Rev.19:11,14; Eph.2:6; Gen.28:12,17; Eph.2:19-20)  7 In speaking of the angels ("messengers") he says,‘He makes his angels ("messengers") spirits, (Ps.104:4; Rom.8:9; 2Cor.5:20) and his servants flames of fire.' (John5:35; Matt.5:14-15)  8 But about the Son he says, ‘Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; (Dan.7:13-14,21-22,25-27; 1Cor.15:25-28,24)  a sceptre of justice will be the sceptre of your kingdom. (Rev.19:11,15; John5:22; 12:48-49)  9 You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions (Col.1:18) by anointing you with the oil of joy.’ " (Heb.12:2) (Ps.45:7; Phil.2:9). 

I hope you research the scriptures I have cited, and see how they help us to understand the position of Jesus above God's other messengers, among which, Jesus was the primary and greatest... the Arch-angel (Arch, meaning: the prototype, first, greatest, original /// Angel, meaning: messenger). 

 Here is a search result which contains many posts and scriptures on this same topic: (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=arch)

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How are the Faithful Anointed, Sealed?

Question received:

What does getting "sealed" mean, for God's anointed servants?

My Reply:

The seal is placed upon the forehead (Rev.7:3).

That mark establishes and identifies that person, as an obedient slave to God's Laws, and therefore, a member of Zion

(Jer.31:33; Deut.11:18; Rev.14:1).

The reason for Rev.7:3 and Rev.9:4, is Rev.13:16-17,7.
There we learn that the reason why some are not yet sealed as God's slaves, is because;

instead of having the seal of God, they have the seal of the Beast (and according to the meaning of the seal... they obey the laws of the beast, rather than the laws of God)

(1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14; Matt.24:24-25). The "kings of the earth" that are drawn into the battle, are anointed kings

(Rev.5:9-10; 1:5-6; 2Cor.10:3-5; Rev.17:14; Eph.2:6; Rev.19:11,14,8; 2:26-27)

https://pearl-kingsofearth.blogspot.com

For more info:

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/10/coming-to-life.html

The anointed receive their seal, through Jesus Christ (Eph.1:13-14) who is pre-figured by "Zerubbabel" (which means, "Against/Defeater of,  Babylon"), who receives the signet ring/seal, of YHVH.

(Haggai 2:23; Zech.4:9; 1Chron.17:10-14; John2:19; Heb.9:11,24; Zech.4:9; Eph.2:20-21; Rev.21:14; John6:70; Gal.1:1; John15:16; Rev.7:2-3; Eph.1:13; Col.2:11; Rom.2:29).

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End Time

       [NOTE: Here is a recording of a meeting during which this post was discussed. 

        The first 15 minutes is my reply to a spontaneous question about Why Jesus cursed the fig tree.

        At the 15:00 mark, the topic of this post, begins (https://soundcloud.com/)]

A Question I Received: 

 Is time compressing a sign this world as we know it is ending and His kingdom is nigh, Pearl? 

 I thought maybe Eph.5:16 may refer to what I noticed. 

  My Reply: 

 As far as where we are concerning the fulfillment of prophecies about the time of the End; the Bible gives us the signs to look or for. (https://pearl-sign.blogspot.com) 

(Matt.24:15,24-25; Mark13:14) 

       (https://pearl-anillustration.blogspot.com) --(https://pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com)

Yes, so many of them are now finally, really taking place. Jesus said that when we see them, know that he "is near, even at the door" (Matt.24:3,33). 

He has already been at the door, knocking. The door has already been opened by the doorkeeper (Mark 13:34), 

and he has come in to eat with that one 

(Luke 12:36; Matt.24:33; Rev.3:20; 2:17; Luke 12:37; 17:7-8; 12:35-37,38-40,42-44). 

Recording continues after the Addition.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -

ADDITION:

         please pause the recording to consider these verses: 

        (Matt.6:19; John10:10; Luke21:24; Eze.13:6,10,22,21; Isa.49:24-25; 

         Mark 3:27; Rev.20:1-2; Ps.18:17; Ex.22:2; Gen.3:3-4,15; Ps.74:13-15; Rev.16:12)

Matt.6:19 -- The thieves are those who steal.

John 10:10 -- Jesus is not the thief.

Luke21:24 -- God is robbed of His own people and Temple by means of Satan's agents and their lies. 

                     (1Pet.2:5; 1Cor.3:16-17) (Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8; Matt.24:24-25,15; 

                      Dan.11:31; 8:11-13; 1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14; 2Thess.2:3-4,9-10; 2Cor.4:3-4).

Eze.13:6,10,22,21 -- God takes action to remove the leader's veil of deception.

Isa.49:24-25 -- Those captives who were stolen by the thief, will be rescued and released.

                         Included in the liberation will be the children of Jerusalem above.

                         [the "children saved" are those belonging to the faithful remnant of New Jerusalem. 

                                  (Gal.4:26; Isa.49:21)]

                        (a-spiritual-family-new-creation.html)

Mark 3:27 -- In order to take back those stolen from God, the devil must be restrained.

Rev.20:1-2 -- Jesus binds the thief (again), limiting Satan's ability to deceive those rescued 

                        (Rev.12:9-11; 11:12; Eph.2:6).

Ps.18:17 -- Dan.7:21-22; Matt.16:18; Luke10:17-19; Rev.21:7

Ex.22:2NIV -- If a thief enters a house under cover of darkness and is then killed, 

                        the defender is innocent. Under cover of darkness, proves the thief's intent (Rev.9:11,2-3). 

Gen.3:3-4,15 -- Satan robbed God's creation, of life (John10:10; 8:44; Rom.5:12). God foretells 

                   Satan's "bruising in the head". That blow occurs after Satan robs God of His Holy Place.

Ps.74:13-15 -- When Satan's heads are crushed, God's waters of life will open (John4:10; Rev.22:1). 

                        Satan's river of lies will dry up (Rev.12:15).

Rev.16:12 -- When Satan's river of Babylon dries up; 

                     The 3 anointed kings come forth from the East/rising sun 

                       (Matt.2:1-2,9-11; Rev.2:26,28; 22:16; 14:7-8,9-10).

         [see: https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2021/11/why-was-satan-put-into-abyss.html

                 https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/12/earth-swallows-satans-river-rev1216.html

                 https://pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com ]

-  -  -  -  -  -  -

Recording continues here:

 To go along with Eph.5:16... 

              ("16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.") 

Ecc.9:12 reads; "Moreover, no one knows when that hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so people are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them. "

  In the first century; Jesus also said that no one knows that hour (Matt.24:36) of unexpected evil (1Thess.5:3; 2Thess.2:1-3), 

That "hour", is the Great Tribulation (Eph.6:13; Luke 21:31,36; Matt.24:21,36; 1Tim.4:1; Luke22:53; 2Pet.3:3-4; Hab.2:2-3) 

       (the-greatest-tribulation-why.html)

 Ecc.9:12 said that the evil times are like a snare. 

Note what Jesus said at Luke21:34: "34 But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly, like a snare." 

1Thess.5:3 (whats-wrong-with-peace-and-security.html)

Since this test will unexpectedly close in upon those alive at that time; we do best to stay alert to our own inspection by Christ, so that whenever that hour arrives, we are ready 

(Luke 12:19; Rev.3:17; Mark 13:36; Matt.25:5; Luke 11:5-8; Rev.3:20) (1Cor.7:31; 2Pet.3:11-12,9-10).

 When Jesus was on earth, he said that no one knows that hour, except the Father (Matt.24:36). 

Does the Father ever tell Jesus, that "hour" of darkness?

 (Luke 22:53; 21:25; Acts 2:19-20; Mark 13:23-25; Rev.9:2-3,7; Joel 2:1-2; Isa.60:2-3) 

Jesus claimed, "Yes"... John16:12-13,16; 5:20; 3:35).

At both Rev.5:5-7,12-13 and Dan.7:13-14 we are shown that the time arrives when Jesus also knows the time of the end. 

He then sends his messenger, to show his followers, "what will soon take place". (Rev.1:1; 22:6,16).

The symbolic description of those imminent events, is unveiled by the scroll of Revelation.

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2021/09/learning-day-and-hour.html)

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A House on Rock + A House on Sand / 7 eyes - Prophets

Matt.7:24: "‘Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.’"

    

 A question I received. (I have added scriptural citations to the question.):

Pearl am I right in thinking that a house built on a rock mass is .... 
The rock mass is chief corner stone/Jesus (Matt.21:42-45; Eph.2:20; 1Cor.3:11; Isa.28:16) and foundation stones/apostles (Eph.2:20-21; 1Cor.3:10-11; Rev.21:14) and the house is the temple of God/anointed priests (1Pet.2:5,9; 1Cor.3:16,9-10; Heb.3:6)?
And the floods that came to wash it away or to make it topple is like in Revelation 12:15 the water from Satan's mouth trying to drown or overtake the woman? (Rev.12:15; 13:1,6-7; 9:2-3) And the house built on sand is the governing body? Sand is from the dead sea creatures from the sea just like the beast comes from the sea. So Satan is the "corner stone" and the sand is possibly the elders and the Governing body is the house or visa versa?

----------------------------

My Reply:
I do hope that the scriptures I cited in the first paragraph of your question, suffice to affirm the understanding you expressed. Who builds up God's household, during any particular era? As we see at 1Cor.3:10,12-14;  there are many builders. Eph.4:11-12,16 explain who they are. What they build up, is simultaneously... God's house/Temple, and the Body of Christ, because those two are one and the same (John2:21; 1Cor.12:27; 1Pet.2:5). 
Each one builds the quality of that Temple, in two ways. 
First, by the quality of themselves, which they contribute as one of the Temple's living stones (Gal.6:4)
(2Cor.7:1; 2Pet.3:14; Eph.4:22-25; 1Pet.5:10; Phil.1:6; John13:34-35; Rom.13:10; 1John4:18; Col.3:14; Eph.4:16; 1John4:8; Matt.5:46).
The second way in which each living stone contributes to the quality of the Temple, is by how well they discharge their divine assignment 
(1Cor.12:11-12,14,18,20,25,27-28; Eph.4:7,15-16,25). That includes how well they handle their ministry of preaching the gospel 
(Ps.134:1; Eph.2:10; Isa.42:21; 1Pet.2:9; 1:12; 2Tim.2:15; Mark 16:20; Rom.1:16; Luke24:47; Acts 8:4; 1:8; 10:42; Rom.10:14-15; 1Cor.9:16; 1Thess.2:9; Gal.1:11; Titus 1:3; Matt.28:18-20).

There is another factor to consider, in the structure of God's Temple and Body of Christ. It is the appointment by Christ of a household steward (Luke12:42). The Body of Christ, contains a part, that is symbolized by an eye (1Cor.12:16,21-22). They are also symbolized as lamps/torches/stars (Matt.6:22) due to their spiritual perception and acuity, as being compared to light (2Cor.4:6; Acts 26:18; Eph.1:18; 2Pet.1:19-21). That light, is sourced in Christ (Ps.36:9; John12:35-36; 8:12; 1:4-5,9,14; Matt.4:16; Rev.5:6; 4:5; 1:20; Matt.5:14-15).
This part of the Body is given spiritual perception and foreknowledge. It is the position of prophet. They are messengers (Greek:'angels') of God's spirit of prophecy, sent to each of their congregations (1Cor.14:32; Rev.1:20). Such a one is ordered to 'keep watch' and to keep their 'lamp'/eye, burning brightly (Mark 13:34; Luke 12:35-36,39,41-42,43-44) as they feed the household/congregation/lampstand, over which they have been appointed.
To bring us back to the household built upon the cornerstone, Jesus Christ;
It would be up to that appointed steward/'lamp', to feed the household/Body in their charge, according to the light of Christ (Matt.6:22; Luke 11:36; Matt.5:15; Rev.1:20), so that his household is built on a sure and firm foundation, the Cornerstone. In this, we have the example of John the Baptist (John1:6-8; 5:35). If faithful in this way, that wise Steward would foster a household that can withstand the onslaught of Satanic "winds", "downpours", "lashings" and "floods" (Matt.7:24-25; 24:45).
(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/12/what-are-seven-spirits-of-god.html)
(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/02/two-witnesses-lampstands.html)
(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/02/pluck-out-your-eye.html)
If you are the household Steward, appointed by Jesus to feed his disciples (Luke12:42), then yes, you must build up that household (Eph.4:12) on the right foundation (Jesus and the apostles -Eph.2:20-22; 1Cor.3:11). 

What if we are not the Steward, but we are a disciple? 2Cor.5:4 speaks of another house. It is the physical life we have now. In this present life, we are building our faith in Christ. We can still apply Jesus' words, when we are building our "house" of Faith. We must anchor our beliefs on the cornerstone... and not the ever-changing and shifting sands of human doctrine. We can be helped to do this, if we attach ourselves to the True vine and it's branches 
(Zech.8:23; Rom.2:28-29; Dan.12:3; Rev.1:20; Phil.2:15)
(John15:5,8; Col.1:6; Ps.107:37; John4:35,39-42).

*  *  *  *  *  *  *

There is a deeper image to the description Jesus gave us, as to a house built on a foundation of sand. Sand is the boundary between the sea and the earth. The reason why the sand is always shifting, is because it is ever lashed by the crashing waves of the restless sea. The powerless sand surrenders, ever molding itself to the powerful currents of the waters.
This symbolism can open our perception, by means of the scriptures. 

 (https://pearl-leviathan.blogspot.com)

The Bible compares the sea, to those under the direct influence of Satan (Isa.57:20; 27:1; Eph.2:2; 2Cor.4:4; 1John5:19; Luke4:5-6). Those who are of God's "earth", but are immature and weak, are like the sand (Eph.4:14; 2Cor.11:3). They themselves are not on the set course laid out by Christ, but like sand picked up and tossed by the sea, they become one with the waters (Jude 1:4,8,10-13,15-16,17-19; James 1:6-8). If we put our trust such religious men of falsehood and subscribe to their teaching, we rest our house of faith on the shifting sand.
How can we distinguish the false teachers/prophets from the true ones?
The scriptures in this link, can guide us: (https://pearl-finetrees.blogspot.com)
Those who take care to build on rock, even though that rock is near to the sea... that house will not be vulnerable to the changing tides and storms.

The flood that comes 
(and the "winds of teachings"/"breath/spirits of demons" that blow>> Rev.16:13-16; 1Tim.4:1; Eph.4:14)... are from Satan (Rev.12:15; Matt.24:38-39; Luke 17:26). 
But it can also be perceived, that the flood from Satan's mouth, is what we see again depicted in another pictorial parable, at Rev.9:1-3. The abyss of Hades/Sheol ("not perceiving"/spiritual blindness/2Cor.4:4) is like Satan's mouth. It swallows "all those going down into the pit" (Ps.88:4; Job 33:28,22; Eze.28:8; Prov.30:16), just as Satan devours those who are consumed by his deceptions (John8:44; 1Pet.5:8). (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/04/what-is-sheole-hades.html)

----(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/12/earth-swallows-satans-river-rev1216.html)

When the locust-scorpions, "flood" out of that abyss... Satan's lies are disgorged through that army. Each one of them carries with them, Satan's spirit/breath/deceptive waters. The outpouring of that army from the abyss, is a parallel to Satan's flood from his mouth.

Satan's lies, overflow from his heart. Satan's heart can be a parallel to the abyss of dark deception. From the heart's abundance, the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45).

          

This symbolism is not new. 
The symbolic waters of life, are also depicted as a river (Rev.22:1). Jesus carried that water within his heart (John4:10) and it can be imparted to others who accept the waters of truth (John7:38; Luke 6:45). In the same way; Those who accept into themselves, Satan's Wormwood waters from the agents of his abyss, will be poisoned. 

Just as Jesus breathes on his anointed (who are one spirit with him -1Cor.6:17) and sends them forth with the truth (John20:21-22)... Satan's spirit operates in the sons of disobedience/man of lawlessness (Eph.2:2; Rev.16:13; 13:11,15), and they are launched forth with demonic deception, out from the abyss.

*  *  *  *  *  *  * 
What is the primary purpose to this great Satanic maneuver?

"15 Then from his mouth the snake spewed water like a river, to overtake the woman and carry her away with the torrent. 17 Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring – those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus."

Clearly, Satan's destructive deceptions are trying to drown the mother of life, Jerusalem above (Gal.4:26). 

earth-swallows-satans-river

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/04/satan-misleads-entire-inhabited-earth.html

She is a covenant of life (Gal.4:24 part A). (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/03/two-mothers.html)

Satan also goes forth to wage war against the remaining ones the woman's seed (Gen.3:15; Rev.12:17). (https://pearl-anillustration.blogspot.com)
(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-remaining-ones.html)

These are the last remnant of her offspring, who obey God and preach the truth (Rev.20:7-9; 16:13-16; 17:14; 2Cor.6:7; 10:3-5; Rev.12:7,10-11). How do her remaining children, conquer the Devil and his lies? They hold to their testimony to the Truths of Jesus, even in the face of death 
(Rev.12:17; 2:25; Mark 8:35; Rev.6:9-11)

(Rev.3:3,11) (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2020/07/crowns.html)

We have briefly discussed the steward appointed by Christ, to feed their congregation (Luke12:42). What we have not yet mentioned, is that such appointees, may not necessarily prove faithful (Luke 12:45-46; Matt.24:48-49,50-51). Such a foolish steward/false prophet, would build up his household on the temporary sand 

(Jer.22:13; Hab.2:12; Rev.17:18,6; 18:24; Matt.23:33-35,36-38).

The Steward is not the house itself, but is the steward over the house. The wicked steward would be dispensing unsuitable provisions as spiritual food and water to those in his charge 

(Rev.8:10-11; 9:1; Isa.5:20-21,22-23; Matt.24:49; Luke 12:45; Micah 2:11; Isa.28:7; Jer.5:31) 

(Matt.7:15-17,18-20). As a result, it's members will not be enabled to keeps standing, in the Day of the Lord (Rev.6:16-17). 

When we are told that the beast arises from the sea (Rev.12:17; 13:1); it simply means that they emerge from the pool of the wicked (Isa.57:20) and are those who are under the dominion of the Destroyer/Satan (Rev.9:11; Isa.33:1) (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/11/who-is-destroyer.html)

Just as God has a Temple, and His laws are written within the hearts of His living stones (1Cor.3:16; Deut.11:18); Satan has a synagogue (Rev.2:9; 3:9) and his demonic deceptions are written within the hearts of those deceived (Rev.12:9; 13:16-17).

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/mark-of-beast.html)

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/12/some-have-told-me-that-buying-and.html)

(https://pearl-666.blogspot.com/)

Satan would be the cornerstone of his synagogue. His foundation stones, would be his false prophets/seven heads of the Gentile powers (Rev.17:9-10), and seven harlot daughters, who serve the mother covenant of death (Rev.17:5; Isa.28:15). The stones would be the locust-scorpion Gentiles (stones) that comprise the Wild Sea Beast (house). That collective Beast is directed by it's 7 successive heads/false prophets/wicked stewards. 

The sand which this house is built upon (Rev.13:1 NASB), are those who are inclined to be Christians, but are weak and ignorant, and do not really love the truth. They are weak-willed and easily swayed, tempted, dominated, exploited, influenced, and deceived. Their devotion is transient and conditional, and their support does not last, whether they be the leaders or their followers. This is why such a foundation, will cause that house, to collapse.

Just as Jesus also uses a vine to depict himself and those who receive his spirit, belong to, and serve him (John15:4-5) within his household; God depicts Satan's dissemination of his deceiving spirit as well (Deut.32:31-33; Rev.14:17-18,19-20). 

Those who consume the fruit from the vine of Christ, gain eternal life. Those who consume the fruit from the vine of Satan and his Impostor branches (false prophets), will reap destruction (Matt.24:4-5,24-25; Gal.6:7; Hosea 10:13) if they do not awaken and repent 

(Eze.33:11; 18:30-32; Rev.2:5,16,21,22; 3:3,19; 16:9,11; Rev.18:4; 2Cor.6:17-18; Matt.24:15-16).

(https://pearl-disgustingthing.blogspot.com)

"Unless the Lord builds the house,
    the builders labour in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city,
    the guards stand watch in vain. (Psalm 127:1)

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