Revelation chapter 12 verse 14

--Work in Progress-- 

[To listen to our meeting that discusses the material of PART ONE, 

click here: (https://soundcloud.com/]

This lesson is for advanced students. I will include links below, for related, foundational information.

Rev.12: "14 The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of for a time, times and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach."

To open up the interpretation of Revelation, I turn to the scriptures (Gen.40:8;  2Tim.3:16-17; John 17:17)

PART ONE:

"The woman - was given - the two - wings - of a great eagle"

The woman is the new covenant, a promised reward to the faithful, that they will belong to the Holy City and Bride of Christ 

(Gal.4:26,24; Rev.3:12; Luke 10:20; Eph.2:6; Rev.21:9-10)

Links:

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

       (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/01/)

was given

(John 15:26; James 1:17; Mal.4:5; Dan.11:31-33; Dan.11:34NIV; Isa.41:10,13; Ps.46:1-2,3-4,5)

the two

Two is a number that represents truth (John 8:17). To be given two, infers that the gift is related to truth.

wings

Wings are appendages for navigating through the air and wind. 

Air and wind represent spirit, either bad or good (Eph.2:2; John 3:8)

Wings carry us aloft as the spirit brings us to our place to settle. 

(Ps.55:6; Rev.12:14) (Zech.5:9-10,11)

Link: (https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2022/06/wings.html)

of a great eagle

If we wish to understand the meaning of "great eagle" we turn to Ezekiel chapter 17 which is the only other place where "great eagle"s are mentioned. There are two eagles directly mentioned there (Eze.17:3,7) but as we will see, there turns out to be three.

Ezekiel 17NIV (<click on to read)

The parable there explains that the first eagle plucked off the top most shoot of a cedar tree as a new sapling, and carried it away to a land of merchants (Rev.18:3,23; Eze.16:29;  2Cor.2:17; Isa.23:8), where the eagle planted it in a city of traders.

The eagle nurtures the sapling "like a willow by abundant water", but it turns into a low crawling vine (Eze.15:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8). It's branches stretched toward the eagle that planted it in a land of merchants, but it's roots remained beneath the vine in the earth.

Later on, the vine decides to turn toward another great eagle, even with it's roots, seeking a different foundation of strength. The vine withers, weakens, is uprooted and stripped of it's fruit when the east wind strikes it.

Then the Lord interprets the meaning of the parable.

The first eagle is the king of Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar). He makes a treaty with the king of Jerusalem (the twig) whom he has taken captive, that causes the suppression of Jerusalem's royalty and nobles. God allowed the discipline of Babylon to come upon His people for 70 years (Dan.9:12-13,14; Jer.25:4-5,6-7,8-9,10-12). Jeremiah chapter 25 resonates repeatedly with Revelation.

God has allowed this to happen to his people, because they despised and broke their oath and covenant with God, as well as the treaty made with Nebuchadnezzar. 

The second eagle is where God's people turn for escape from Babylon. They do not turn to God, but to Egypt. This turns out even worse.

Hope remains in the final verses of Eze.17:22-23,24 (Isa.60:21)

(Deut.32:9-10,11-12,13-14; Ex.19:4-5,6; Isa.40:31; Rev.12:14) [Egypt has a symbolic application in the time of the end (Rev.11:8) Ex.19:4]. 

God chooses one of the youngest branches for Himself. He plants it upon a "high and lofty mountain" belonging to Israel (Rev.14:1). The branch flourishes and grows, becoming a cedar tree that produces branches, foliage and fruit. "Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches" (Eze.17:23b). 

Verse 24 concludes, "24 All the trees of the forest will know that I the Lord bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish. “‘I the Lord have spoken, and I will do it.’”

God is given credit for the inevitable demise of wicked leaders, and the birth, creation and enduring, bountiful success of the faithful.

Since the woman is given wings of a great eagle from God; we can expect that similar plans are underway for the mother covenant and her remaining seed.

English recording of more information: CLICK HERE

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -

PART TWO     (under construction)

"so that she might fly to the place prepared for her in the wilderness, where she would be taken care of for a time, times and half a time, out of the serpent’s reach".

a time, times, and half a time

To understand what is happening to the covenant woman and her seed, we look to Dan.7:25; 12:7; 11:21-22,28-32. The context speaks of the defeat of the woman's seed for a limited time (Dan.7:19-20,21; Rev.13:7; Dan.7:23-24,25; Luke 21:24; Dan.7:22; 12:1,5-6,7; 11:33; Rev.13:10; Luke 21:24; Col.2:8; Dan.12:10; 9:24).

Gal.4:1-2,3; Luke 13:6-7,8-9; Lev.19:23-24,25

-- [Regarding Dan.9:24 and the "seal up vision and prophecy", see

https://www.scripture4all.org/OnlineInterlinear/OTpdf/dan9.pdf .

Note the first use and context of "u·l·chthm". It refers to making an end and finish of sin, in a sealed or established way. "U·l·chthm" is also used in reference to **vision and prophecy, yet I don't believe that it should be translated as "seal up vision and prophecy" as if understanding cannot be opened (Isa.29:11). Rather, to seal it as finished, and fulfilled **(Rev.10:1-2,7)... just as transgression, sin, and rebellion were concluded. 

Dan.9:24 speaks of this period of time as bringing in "everlasting righteousness" and to anointed the most holy place. 

Everlasting righteousness does not arrive until after the time of the End (2Pet.3:13-14)] And so rather than sealing up prophecy when the end is nigh, the scriptures indicate that the end is the time for vision, prophecy, and God's mysteries, to be opened (Dan.12:4,9-10; Rev.10:7; 22:10,20).

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

 Helpful links: daniel-chapter-eleven-verses-31-45.html

 and  the-rise-of-zion.html

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

Although the woman and her seed must cope with a symbolic 7/70, that period is divided into two eras (Rev.12:6,14).

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

Dan.12:11-12 contains two numbers, in addition to Rev.12:6.

I do not yet fully understand, but if we compare 1,260 days to 1,290 days, there is one month difference (30 days).

If we compare 1,335 to 1,260 we see that there are 2 months and a half month. [1,335 - 1,260 = 75 (30+30+15).

Starting with Rev.12:6, 

1,260 --- 1,290 is one extra time/month

1,335 adds two times/months and a half month

a time, times, and half a time.

out of the serpent's reach

2Cor.2:11YLT

To be beyond the serpent's reach, is to have perception.

It is to be no longer ignorant of Satan's wiles and intentions.

Satan has lost his advantage and ability to exploit us.

Reigning During the Thousand Years

Question received:

Pearl, You said the thousand years began in the first century.  

Did this occur after Paul wrote 1 Corinthians 4:8 or am I confusing two different subjects/events?

My Reply:

[Readers can also consult this link: 

----(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2022/04/when-do-anointed-144000-reign-as-kings.html)]

Scripture does not contradict itself when we have the correct interpretation.

Luke 5:36-37,38-39

If we fill our understanding/faith/wineskin with the wrong interpretation, there is no room for the new learning/new wine...  which may be a more accurate interpretation.

Please read the scriptures as you come to them. Your reading should be focused on the scriptures. They are the source of your learning by spirit... not my words.

Since this post contains much content, I recommend that you divide it into multiple study sessions, if necessary.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Jesus' kingdom of a symbolic thousand years, began ruling in the first century: 

(Acts 7:55; Luke 22:69; Rev.3:21; Ps.110:1; * 1Cor. 15:25 * Mark 16:19) 

"right hand":

(Gen.48:18; Ex.15:6; Ps.17:7; 45:4; 80:17; 108:6; 118:16; Acts 2:33; 5:31; Heb.8:1-2;  1Pet. 3:22)

By being seated at God's right hand; Jesus is the one through whom God's purpose is accomplished (Eph.1:20; Ex.15:6; Ps.17:7; 20:6; 21:8). 

Even we today, may refer to our "right-hand man" (1Chron. 6:39; Ps.45:4; 98:1). 

Jesus also has those, through whom he works (Rev.1:20; 5:6; 22:16; John 20:21; 13:20)

The 144K reign with Jesus, during his thousand year kingdom 

(John 20:21-23; Rev.20:6).

During that era, Jesus inducts and assigns the kings over which he is king (Rev.19:16; 5:10). They receive a dominion akin to his own... "not of this world" (John 18:36-37; 17:16). 

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/12/glory.html)

They receive a spiritual glory... filled with grace and truth (John 1:14,17; 14:6; 18:37), empowered with a command over the forces of deception 

(Luke 10:17-18,19-20; Eph.6:10-12; 4:25; 5:11;  1John 4:6;  2Cor. 10:3-5; 13:8;  1Thess. 2:13).

It is they who are on the side of truth, that heed the voice of their king (John 18:36-37 NKJV )

The "thousand year" reign is not eternal, nor does it remove Satan's dominion over Satan's world. It simply imparts to those anointed as royal priests, an assignment and the resources to accomplish that ministry of grace and truth. Those who accept and respond to Christ's royal ambassadors (John13:20; Matt.10:20,40-41), are set free from the power of the Devil within their own lives.

(Mark 13:34; Matt.25:14-15; Luke 19:13; Matt.25:19-21,24-26,27-30; Luke 16:10). 

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/04/two-kingdoms.html)

--(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-day-and-night-of-thousand-years-two.html)

Those who prove trustworthy and faithful with the property of their master (Luke 12:42-44; 16:10) will later be entrusted and rewarded with an everlasting position, in the Kingdom of God. 

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2015/10/two-appointments.html)

That greater responsibility given those who were tested, sealed, and approved, will be assigned after all the enemies of Christ are conquered, including Satan and his reign over this world 

(1Cor. 15:25-26,24;  1John 5:19; 2:17; Rev.11:15; Dan.7:22,27).

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/01/spreading-tribulation-expelled-anointed_28.html)

--(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=he+who+seeks+to+save+his+soul+will+lose+Mark+8%3A35)

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

During Christ's thousand year kingdom, the authority, capacity, and duties of his under-kings include: 

*judging ( 1Cor. 6:2-3; John 20:21-23), 

*emissaries for Christ their king ...as ministers of reconciliation with God, 

    becoming rulers of God's grace and Truth (as Jesus' reign, was) 

*authority and power over the darkness, demons, and Satan 

    (2Cor. 5:18-20; Luke 10:16-21; Matt.13:11; John 1:14; 17:22; 18:36-37). 

That is the nature of a kingdom that is not of this world. 

It holds the power of the light of Christ (John 8:12), to both... save souls (Rom.1:16), and to battle against Satan's dark power to deceive and thereby, kill (2Cor. 4:3-4;  2Thess. 2:9-10). 

This royal spiritual authority and power is bestowed upon those of the anointed Elect, by Christ (Eph.1:3,6,11-12,18-20,21-23). 

Those who prove faithful with that assignment... and prove victorious, despite unrelenting, Satanic resistance and persecution, will receive a future, eternal kingdom with Christ. 

Such testing, conquering, sealing, and ruling for grace and truth, has been occurring since the 1st century (Rev.3:21; Eph.2:6). Likewise, the role of anointed priest has existed since then (1Pet. 2:5,9-10; Rev.5:9-10; John 20:21-23).

So then, how are we to interpret Paul's words, at 1Cor. 4:8?

1Cor.4:8 reads; 

"Now ye are full (lit. satiated), now ye are

rich, ye have reigned as kings

without us: and I would to God

ye did reign, that we also might

reign with you."

The interpretation of Paul's words that was given to us by the WT, asserts that...

those who were reigning, were reigning without Paul reigning. 

Look closer.

I will dissect it.

First Paul says; 

"Now ye are full (lit. satiated), now ye are

rich"

Paul is making reference...

NOT to a spiritual reign that includes authority over the demonic forces or the ability to forgive sins and bestow life through grace and truth...

but a reign that is rooted in physical, worldly blessings. 

It is the sort of reign that Jesus referred to at Rev.3:17. 

The design by which the anointed fall into this trap and receive this fleshly reign, is by failing the satanic test that Jesus first encountered, at Luke 4:5-7 

(1John 2:15; Luke 22:31;  2Cor. 13:5; James 4:4).

Next,

"ye have reigned as kings

without us"

Those who Paul was addressing, were reigning in a physical way... riches, tangible power to control those who obey and serve them, respect and prestige, physical comfort and excess (Deut.32:15; Luke 12:45; Rev.17:6; 18:7).

A reign over physical creation, is not due until after the end of this world. Until Satan is taken out of the way; the faithful and their royal spiritual position, are to be no part of this world.

Yes, a spiritual reign to champion God's grace and truth, with the ability to debase the demons and Satan himself, is not a reign over or within, Satan's world (John 18:36; 17:16). The time for the faithful saints to receive such a reign over a physical creation, was not in the first century. That is an inheritance that is bestowed upon those who have proven faithful, at Christ's return... at the start of the everlasting Kingdom of God.

    (The 1,000 years is the period during which the administration is being tested, 

      sifted as to fitness, and gathered in. -Matt.25:14,19,21; Eph. 1:10).

God's everlasting kingdom is the reward to those who were faithful with the "little" they were responsible for, during Christ's kingdom 

(Dan.7:9-10; Rev.20:12; Dan.7:13; Rev.5:1,6-7,12; Dan.7:14,20-22,27; 2:44; Matt.25:23; Luke 12:42-44). Under God's Kingdom, is when the faithful slaves inherit the physical creation away from Satan (Rev.11:15)... when Satan no longer reigns over the world, or over creation (Rom.8:18-21; Rev.21:2-3; 22:1-3; Eph.1:10). 

The wicked are then, gone (Rev.21:1; Isa.57:20; Ps.37:10). 

That everlasting physical reign for the faithful anointed, was NOT for the 1st century.

Those who lack spirit, endurance, and patience, and accept an immediate position in Satan's world, are reigning in a physical, worldly way, without the faithful. Those who prove unfaithful, reign within this world, enticed by physical power and riches. 

They imitate Esau (Gen.25:29,32,34; 27:30,34,37-38; Heb.12:16; Rom.9:13-14).

Many Bible characters of the past, like Esau, are likewise a pattern for God's standard for judgment 

(Job 42:7-8,9-10; Gen.37:5-6,7-8,13,15-18,23-24,26,28,36; 43:26), 

to also be applied in the time of the end (Rev.3:9; Isa.60:14; Rom.15:4).

The faithful who reign with Christ, are grateful to do so in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24; Matt.6:19-21;  1John 2:17), knowing that their hope and endurance, are not in vain. 

Those who reign in a physical way while Satan is still the ruler of the physical world, reign with an authority and power resting upon the showy display of one's means of life... the desire of the eyes, riches, power, prominence, followers, adoration.... these things do not originate with God, but with the wicked one (1John 2:16; 5:19).

We can be sure that this is the worldly reign that Paul was referring to at  1Cor. 4:8, because we just need to consider the context. 

The verses to follow, portray a contrasting comparison between 

the enticements and blessings of a reign within Satan's world, 

and the genuine appearance of the royal authority and power that is sourced in Christ.....

"9 For I think that God hath set

forth us the apostles last, 

as those appointed to death: for

we are made a spectacle unto

the world, and to angels, and to

men.

10 We [are] fools for Christ's sake, but ye [are] wise in Christ; we [are] weak, but ye [are] strong; ye [are] honored, but we [are] despised. 11 Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place; 

12 We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; 13 when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world – right up to this moment."

(Mark 13:13; John 16:2; Rom.8:17;  2Cor. 1:5;  1Pet. 4:13; 5:9,1; Luke 22:28-29)

As we see above in the example of Paul; the faithful slaves, follow the model and footsteps of Christ 

(1Pet. 2:21; John 14:6; 15:20). 

Jesus was hated, persecuted, and killed for truth by the leaders who accepted a worldly reign 

(as described above at 1Cor. 4:10) (Luke1 1:43; Matt.23:27,25). 

Those faithful to Christ, pick up their torture stake and follow him to the death... joining him in being despised, defamed, and killed as a criminal 

(1Pet. 2:21; Matt.10:38-39; Luke 22:28; Matt.25:6; Heb.13:13; Mark 13:13; Rev.11:7-10; 6:9-11).

In such faithful endurance (Rev.14:12), they share in the glory of Christ's integrity and kingdom (John 12:23-27,31-32; 17:22; 1:14)

(Rom.8:17; 6:5)

So, when Paul said "you have reigned as kings without us", he was not saying that he himself did not have a spiritual reign. He was saying that those who accept a physical reign, reign prematurely over the physical, and they do so, without the faithful. ("You have reigned as kings, without us" - 1Cor. 4:8).

The next part of 1Cor. 4:8 is very illuminating for those paying close attention.

Paul said next; "How I wish that you really had begun to reign".

Now we might assume, due to our WT indoctrination, that this is saying that these kings were not really reigning because any genuine reign was yet out of reach.

Not necessarily.

If a spiritual reign with Christ was within reach, but these unfaithful hearers had not yet "conquered" to attain it (see Rev.3:21; 17:12;  1John 5:4) due to their compromise to the enticements of the world...

...then Paul's words would also apply in that case.

Those reigning in a worldly, physical way, have not yet overcome the enticements of the flesh 

(Gal.5:17; Rom.8:13,9;  1John 5:4; Eph.4:22;  1Cor. 13:11; Eph.4:13), 

and are failing to attain a reign with Christ (John 17:16; Luke 22:28-29; Rev.3:21).

The verse ends with Paul saying; 

"How I wish that you really had begun to reign so that we also might reign with you!"

Is Paul really saying here that he himself is not reigning?

That may seem to be one possibility, but not if we accept the facts that Jesus started reigning in the 1st century, and his 144K reigned with him during their own lifetimes within that era. In light of those facts, Paul's words have been misinterpreted by the WT.

Let me offer you 2 other possible interpretations of Paul's words "so that we might also reign with you".

The first, is that IF these unfaithful were really reigning in God's eternal and physical kingdom to come; then Paul and all faithful anointed, could also be reigning in the physical realm, over all creation. 

That would be an understandable desire and wish of Paul.

The second, is that if Paul was already reigning with Christ in his 'thousand year' spiritual kingdom, 

it would be his natural desire that these unfaithful were also being faithful (like Paul), so that they could rule alongside Paul.

That interpretation is difficult to see, without removing our previous indoctrination.

I'll try to make it clearer...

Imagine that there is a graduating class of high school seniors.

Those who did not pass their exams, will not be a part of the commencement ceremony.

They may have lied, and said that they would be.

One of the true graduates may say to one who failed, "How I wish you were really graduating, so that I might graduate with you.". 

If we read that 2 students are not graduating together, that does not mean that neither are graduating.

Can you see that this can be said ("I wish you were really graduating, so that I might graduate with you."), 

without inferring that the one graduating, is not?

Paul was merely saying that he wished that the unfaithful had kept integrity and therefore, were really reigning presently with Christ, so that Paul could reign with them in the current "thousand year" kingdom.

He could have also meant (according to the first option), that he wished the physical kingdom of God over all creation, had really arrived (which physical reign the unfaithful took, prematurely under Satan), ...so that Paul could also presently reign in that eternal kingdom over all creation, which God will bestow in the future on the faithful that Jesus will identify and reward, at his return, after Armageddon.

These are the optional meanings of Paul's words, which are in harmony with the other scriptures.

Any interpretation that discounts other Bible truths, is not an option. Truth does not contradict itself. If our interpretation of a verse does not harmonize with the rest, we must change our interpretation of it. Multiple scriptures make clear that Jesus began his reign in the 1st century, and it was during that reign, that the 144k also faithfully manifested their authority and power of spirit, light, grace, and truth.

"Now ye are full (lit. satiated/glutted), now ye are

rich (Matt.6:1-2,5,19-21; 19:23-24)(they compromised to Satan -Matt.4:9), 

ye have reigned as kings (in the world/physical)

without us: and I would wish to God

ye did reign  [faithfully, in the present with Christ (with spirit, grace and truth)], 

that we (the reigning faithful) also might reign with you."

and I would wish to God

you were reigning [within the eternal, future Kingdom of God for the proven and sealed faithful], that we also might reign with you. (...Our future hope finally realized, God's promised reward, bestowed upon those who have endured -Matt.24:13; Rom.8:24-25,28,30,35-37;  2Cor. 4:10)"

Neither of those interpretations assert, that Paul was not reigning with Christ.

The interpretation that asserts that Paul was not reigning, nullifies many other scriptures and so, is error.

John 16:12-14,8; Mal.3:18

Ps.110:2; Heb.2:8-10; 12:28; Rom.8:17; Ps.8:4-6; Dan.7:9-11,12-14,18-20,21-23,24-25,26-27; Rev.5:6-7,9-10,11-13; 11:2; 12:10; 13:2,5-7; 8:13; 9:12; 12:12; 20:10-13; John 14:21; 17:24; 14:3-4,5-6; 17:24;  1John 3:2; John 17:22; 1:14)

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Don't Look Back

Don't look back, was the theme of many cautionary warnings that Jesus gave us. It is therefore crucial that we gain insight into the significance of what he meant. As we will see, it is especially suited for the time of the End, in which we live.

Luke chapter 17 reads; "28 ‘It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29 But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulphur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all.

30 ‘It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31 On that day no one who is on the housetop, with possessions inside, should go down to get them. Likewise, no one in the field should go back for anything. 32 Remember Lot’s wife! 33 Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it."

In verse 32, Jesus tells us to remember Lot's wife. So let's go look and see how the account of Lot's wife can aid us in understanding the meaning, of not looking back.
Genesis chapter19 reads; "15 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished.” 16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. 17 As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, 'Flee for your lives! (Jer.51:6) Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!' (Matt.24:15-16) 24 Then the Lord rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah—from the Lord out of the heavens. 25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities—and also the vegetation in the land. 
26 But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt."


Clearly, the warning we take away from Jesus' words at Luke 17:32-33,31 is a warning against looking back. It entails leaving the life we had known, behind, for the sake of the truths of Christ (Luke 17:32-33; Mark 8:35).

What does it mean to not look back?
What is the tugging temptation that is drawing upon us, making it a challenge to not look back?
What effect does looking back have on us?
What is so dangerous about looking back?
What are the challenging consequences that result, from our not looking back?
What fine consequences result from our not looking back?
How can I apply this warning in my personal life?

1. What does it mean, to not look back?

Paul teaches us, that there are really only two choices... our own life, or a life lived for the sake of the truths of Christ (Mark 8:35 KJV).
Philippians chapter 3;
"8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ – the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ – yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, 14 I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus."

There we learn that not looking back, means to minimize the importance of our own life (Acts 20:24), so that our total focus is on the will of God for us. It means letting go of what may have held great value to our heart, in favor of using our whole mind, heart, soul, and strength, in the service of God, Christ, and others (Matt.22:36-37,38-40).
When we strive with our whole soul toward a goal, our heart is not divided by our futile desires
(Matt.6:19-21,24;  1Tim.6:6-8,9-11,12-14,15-17,18-19; Matt.6:20; Mark 10:24-25; Job 1:21; Luke 12:20-21; Ps.49:17; Ecc.5:15; 1:14).

2. What is the tugging temptation that is drawing upon us, making it a challenge to not look back?

We all have personal things we each treasure, aspire to, enjoy doing, and hope for.
Looking back need not be only our past. It can also be all the things we value, desire, and meditate on... previous to our dedication to the will of God.
Learning to treasure the will of God for our life, above and beyond our own desires, is a progressive maturation (Matt.6:31-32,33; Rom.12:1-2; James 1:4). No one naturally wants to disown themselves in favor of slaving for someone else's will (2Cor.5:15; Rom.6:6,13). Jesus gave us his example, as a perfect lesson of what it means to live for God. We learn to leave our self-centered life behind, and we don't look back.
(Heb.12:2-3; John 4:34; Luke 22:42; Matt.16:21-23,24-25; Mark 9:47;  1Cor.9:24-25,26-27; Job 17:9)

3. What effect does looking back have on us?

Luke chapter 9 reads;
"62 Jesus replied, ‘No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back, is fit for service in the kingdom of God.’"

Why did Jesus compare our being a useful servant of God's sovereignty, to a farmer ...plowing the ground for the planting of seed?
This comparison within the Bible, is not new. The Bible compares the Word of God, to seed (Luke 8:11). It compares the spiritual fertility of our heart, to soil 

(Luke 8:15; Hosea 10:12; 6:3; Isa.44:3; 45:8;  2Cor.9:10; Jer.4:3; Luke 8:14;  1Cor.3:6; Eph.3:16-17).
From those verses we see, that the purpose of symbolic rain from heaven [living waters (Rev.22:1; John 4:10,14), is to nurture our growth in righteousness, sanctification, and holiness, by the blessing of God's spirit. We too must supplement God's blessing, by contributing a plowed heart... soil that is softened to accept God's Laws (Heb.10:16) and the life they impart (Rom.8:11,2; Gal.6:8; Prov.6:20-21,22-23).
We must strive for progressive understanding... nurturing our growth in the knowledge of God within us (John 6:27; Phil.1:9). Such work takes focus, effort (Gal.6:9;  2Cor.7:1; Matt.5:48;  1Thess.4:2-3,4; 5:23; Prov.11:18) and sacrifice (Matt.13:44; Rev.3:18; Ps.90:12; Prov.23:23), ...but is rewarded and blessed by God (Heb.6:7; John 4:36; Acts 14:17; James 5:7,18; Rev.22:2; Luke 6:43,45; John 15:16) (Matt.16:17; 13:11,16).
Such is the result for those who plow their heart with their focus on the goal ahead. That goal is the harvest and blessing from God, of righteousness (2Cor.9:10; Isa.45:8; Rom.4:3-4).

At Luke 9:62, Jesus states that those who look back, are not fit for service.



Farmers who plow for optimal result, make optimal use of their field (Eph.5:15-16,17). They choose a landmark in the distance (Heb.12:2), assuring that their plow-line will be straight. On their return run, they do the same, making certain that the whole field will be overturned and prepared.
We cannot bring "perfect holiness" to completion (2Cor.7:1), if our spiritual goals are haphazard,
and our effort is ambivalent, inconsistent, cursory, superficial, or partial
(Hosea 8:7; James 1:4-5,6-7,8; Luke 8:18).

4. What is so dangerous about looking back?

Preparing our heart to fully accept the wisdom of God, and be undivided for the service of God's kingdom, is a protection (Ecc.7:12).
God's wisdom illuminates our heart, so that we can perceive the way of life (Prov.18:15; 23:23)
(John 8:12; 12:49,36; 6:63; 1:4;  2Cor.4:6; Ps.119:105;  1John 1:5;  1Pet.2:9; Col.1:13).
If we remain in darkness, we are an easy target for our adversary 

(1Pet.5:8-9; Eph.6:10-12,13-15,16-17;  1Thess.5:4-6,7-9; John 12:35).
A weak and disoriented target, is much easier to overcome than a strong and wise one.
If we have not built our faith, solidly upon the teaching and example of Jesus; we will not be able to continue standing through persecution (Luke 22:31-32; Matt.7:24-25,26-27; Luke 21:36). We may give in to our personal desire to hold on to the approval of people, retain a position, or prevent other losses that are common occurrences among Satan's targeted enemies (Mark 8:35).

5. What are the challenging consequences that result, from our not looking back?

Even those who are striving to serve and please God, are destined to have an intense struggle.
(1Pet.5:8-9; 4:13; John 15:18-19,20; 16:20-22;  1Thess.3:3; Acts 14:22; 20:24; Rev.1:9; Rom.8:17;  2Tim.2:3; Phil.3:10; Heb.12:2-3).
Jesus likened our enduring persecution, to a woman in childbirth (John 16:21-22).
Additional scriptures provide more insight into such suffering, panting, and need for endurance
[Jer.4:31; Isa.26:17; 42:14; Ps.63:1-3,4-6,7-8; 119:131; 42:1 <(lit.panting for water); Hab.2:3 <(lit."panting to the end");
Rev.12:2; Dan.9:26; Rev.14:12; 13:10).
We may only endure to the end (Matt.24:13;  2Tim.4:5-6,7-8; Rom.2:6-8), by determination and single-minded devotion.
We cannot afford, to look back.



If we do, we are in danger of becoming overwhelmed, distracted, and violating the vital warning of Jesus that we should not to return to the things we left behind (Luke 21:21-22; 17:30-31,32-33).
If we do, we will succumb to the temptation that ensnared Lot's wife.

6. What fine consequences result from our not looking back?

Those who become conquering victors, are to be rewarded
(2Tim.4:7-8; James 1:12; Rev.2:10,7,11,17,26-27; 3:5,12,21; 12:11; 17:14; 21:7)
(John 14:21; Rom.8:28,31,35-37,38-39; John 16:33; Luke 22:28-29; Mark 10:29-30).

7. How can I apply this warning in my personal life?

Those who are called, chosen, and anointed by God's spirit to be a priest of his spiritual Temple...
 (1Pet.2:5,9; 1:5-6; 5:10;  1Cor.3:16)
(Acts 7:49-50; Zech.8:8; Eze.37:27;  2Cor.6:16; John 14:23),
...must prove faithful to that calling
(Rom.11:29; 8:28-30; Eph.4:1,4; Phil.3:14;  2Thess.1:11;  2Tim.1:9; Heb.3:1;  2Pet.1:10).
Once we are sealed as a faithful part of that Temple, we do not leave that station
(Rev.3:12 -A ; Heb.8:4-6,1-2; 9:23; Col.2:17).
Our life is not our own, and our Temple service, is forever.
(1Cor.6:19-20; John 1:51; Rev.22:3-5; 7:15; John 1:51; Gen.28:12-14; Gal.3:29; Col.3:24)
(Heb.7:15-17; Rev.5:9-10; Dan.7:14,21-22,26-27).
Such priests must learn, to not look back at the life and losses they leave behind
(Rom.8:17-19,24-25). Under the sifting persecution of Satan, the losses endured by the faithful continue to mount up, as they progress on the path of Christ. If they look back with undue sentimentality, sorrow, or regret; it is unlikely that they will have the fortitude to finish their course (Prov.24:10 KJV ; Isa.40:31; Acts 1:8; Luke 22:31-32; Neh.8:10).

What if we have not been anointed as a priest of God's heavenly Temple?
Jesus said that such priests, must teach others to obey the same commands which they themselves must observe (Mal.2:7; Matt.28:19-20).
Whatever our place in God's purpose; each of us must learn to love and serve God and others, with all that we are (Matt.22:36-37,38-39,40).
But how we serve, and what is expected, varies.
If we are not a priest or member of the Body and Bride of Christ, we can offer support to those who are. Then we can be rewarded, along with all those who serve the Purpose of God.
(Luke 12:48; Matt.25:15; Eph.4:11; Heb.6:10-12; Matt.10:41-42; 25:35-36,37-38,39-40; 22:8-10; Rev.22:17).
We can examine ourselves and know what God's will is for us personally, according to our own capacity, ability, divine position, and relationship with God.
The yoke of Jesus is kindly and light (Matt.11:28-30; 12:20).
Based upon our own relationship with God, we can discern what his purpose is for us, and what he expects of us personally, in this time of the End.
When we have discerned God's purpose for us; let us make the attainment of that purpose, our wholehearted objective.
When that purpose clarifies to us, we know our own path of life and how to live in harmony with the will of God for us. As we progress upon that path, we are cared for by our loving shepherd. We may secure our own prospect of great and eternal joy. as we serve our Father and His son in heaven.
All of us have no reason, to look back.

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/is-leaving-city-enough.html)

(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/01/what-must-we-do.html)

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Sources of Persecution against the Holy Ones / Why must the faithful, die?

After a discussion surrounding the nature of current persecution within the WT organization against the Chosen Elect of God; and how that persecution is the means through which the anointed receive their seal, I was asked the following questions:

1: “If the anointed need to be disfellowshipped (killed -John 16:2) in order to be sealed, then they would need to have been a part of false religion. What about before watch tower was organized? Who did the anointed have to belong to then? ”” 

PREFACE:
Previous to the Chosen becoming mature/(sealed) into the full-grown stature of Christ (Eph.4:13-14;  1Cor.2:6,16; 13:11; 14:20; Phil.3:10), they are under the care of ("belong to") a steward/household manager (1Cor.4:1,15-16; Gal.4:1-2,19; Col.1:25; Luke 12:42). 
With spiritual growth (Heb.5:14; Col.1:28; Heb.12:23;  2Pet.1:4), comes the need for each individual to take a stand and die for the Truth 
(Mark 4:28-29; John 12:24;  1Cor.15:36; Mark 13:13; 8:35; Matt.25:6; Heb.13:13; Rom.6:5; Rev.6:9-11). 
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/10/coming-to-life.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/symbolic-death-by-means-of-world.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/05/he-who-seeks-to-save-his-life-will-lose.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/04/wheat-and-weed-seeds-grow-up-and-mature.html

That death is often sourced, with a wicked steward (Luke 12:45-46; 16:1-2).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-stewards-sacred-trust.html
https://pearl-wastefulsteward.blogspot.com/
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/09/trample-how-does-it-happen.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2018/01/by-this-love-among-yourselves-all-will.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/10/why-does-master-delay-luke1235-stay.html

We today, can come to recognize how that "death" is presently occurring. (see 8 links above)
The question now being asked, essentially is;
'How could the anointed who existed previous to the "Watchtower", become sealed by a death for truth?'

NOTE: There is a pattern for those who finish the course of Christ (Phil.3:10-12,16-17;  1Pet.2:21; Matt.16:24-25; Rom.6:5-6,7-8) and become sealed. 
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=becoming+sealed

The same destination of being sealed, has a path that varies between those who are sealed during the "Thousand Year" kingdom of Christ, and those sealed during the Great Tribulation (which occurs after the "Thousand Years"). 
This directly pertains to the question at hand, because the "thousand years" are before the emergence of the "Watchtower", and the Great Tribulation occurs when the "Watchtower" exists.
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-day-and-night-of-thousand-years-two.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-thousand-years-image-of-beast.html
(for more information about when the "thousand years" take place, please use the search box)

Those sealed during the "thousand years" and before Satan's release from the abyss (Rev.20:7) (and his subsequent installation of the False Prophet and it's Beast) (Rev.16:13-16; 20:7-8; 13:1,4,11,14-15; 19:20)...
...were never conquered by those agents of Satan (Rev.20:4). 
Those who had been taken captive and conquered (Col.2:8; Rev.13:10,7) after Satan's release (and during the Great Tribulation), must repent, be washed clean, and ride forth with Christ in the battle against those agents of demonic deception (Rev.15:2; 2:26-27; 17:14;  2Cor.10:3-5; Eph.6:12).

------------------
My reply:
Your two questions are at the apex of much information, which could have subsets of questions, beneath them. To be thorough, I will break those questions down, in my attempt to make a fuller reply, clear and comprehensible.
In order to accept some of the assertions to follow; background information will need to be researched and studied before it is accepted. 
In order to stick to the questions at hand, I will not include all that information here and now, but will insert links for those who deem the assertions, unproven by scripture. Please use the linked references, as needed.

1a: "Before the watchtower organisation"
Those with a knowledge of "Watchtower" history, are familiar with the idea that this organization started in the late 1800s. Although the organization itself, claims it's origin with God's first martyr Abel... due to it's claim of being God's collective of righteous witnesses (Matt.23:35; Heb.11:4; 12:24). 
...that claim is error. The general population of JWs, are not members of the "Chosen" Elect (Isa.43:10,21;  1Pet.2:9), nor were they all martyred on the altar of God's spiritual Temple, as were the group of martyrs to which Abel belonged (Rev.6:9-11; Heb.12:24).

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/04/who-are-yhwhs-witnesses.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/who-become-gods-people.html

Regarding the origin of the "Watchtower", here are the facts:

The organization was formed in 1881 as Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society for the purpose of distributing religious tracts. The society was incorporated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on December 15, 1884. In 1896, the society was renamed Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society.

Founders: Charles Taze Russell

Place founded: Pittsburgh

And so, when you ask about the period "before the watchtower was organized", that would mean the period in which anointed existed, previous to the formation of the "Watchtower" organization.
That period would run between Pentecost 33CE (John 7:38-39; Acts 1:4-5,9; 2:1-2,3-4,32-33), to roughly around 1881.

With that period now clarified, we can move forward.

Next we need to grasp, that according to your question, there are two distinct periods during which, the anointed Chosen Elect members of God's Temple priesthood, exist. Both of those periods are previous to the arrival of God's eternal Kingdom.
Obviously, those two periods are 
1. 33 CE thru 1881,
and 
2. 1881 thru to the End (Rev.2:26;  1Cor.15:24-25;  2Thess.2:8;  1Cor.15:26; Rev.20:14-15;  1Pet.4:7;  2Pet.3:7,10-11,12-13)

Those two periods, coincide with two Bible periods...
1. The "Thousand Year" kingdom of Jesus Christ 
        [starts: 33CE - Ends: Birth of "Watchtower" kingdom over anointed]
2. Lifespan of "Watchtower" kingdom 
        [captivates and conquers the anointed, Gentiles trample God's Temple priesthood into powerlessness (the Great Tribulation) and 
         Armageddon. Ends: God's Kingdom)

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/04/two-kingdoms.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014_01_01_archive.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-thousand-years-image-of-beast.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-remaining-ones.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/05/he-who-seeks-to-save-his-life-will-lose.html
---
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/why-jesus-came-to-earth-last-world.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/02/two-witnesses-lampstands.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/12/here-is-earlier-post-with-updates.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/02/thought-from-friend-read-rev-184-again_9845.html

To summarize all major spiritual eras, in chronological order...
1. Creation TO Christ and the spiritual begetting of sons of God, including...
2. The "Thousand Year" reign of Christ.
3. Release of Satan from Abyss / end of "thousand years" / Satan's short period of time / 
    Great Tribulation + Armageddon / TO The End
4. Victory of Armageddon / Eternal Kingdom of God commences, 
    given to Jesus Christ and his Holy Ones

Your question pertains to eras 2 & 3.
How so?
---The period of anointed ones, before the "Watchtower", runs from Pentecost TO the end of the "Thousand Year" kingdom of Jesus and the release of Satan from the abyss (Rev.20:7).

https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/11/satans-release-how.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/08/what-happened-in-1914.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/08/who-has-key-to-abyss.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/06/i-have-found-typing-mistakes-below-and.html

---The period after which the "Watchtower" emerges, runs from Satan's release/Great Tribulation/Armageddon, TO the End of Satanic rule (and the start of God's Kingdom).

With this chronology establish, we can proceed with your question:
What about before watch tower was organized? Who did the anointed have to belong to then?

The anointed always belong to the Body of Christ, which includes the steward appointed to feed that household (Rom.12:5; Eph.2:19; Matt.24:45). That steward can prove to be either faithful, or wicked (Matt.10:36; 24:48-49,50-51). Both the wicked and the righteous generations, exist throughout time (Gen.3:15; Matt.13:30; Rev.12:17,7)(Ps.112:2; Phil.2:15)... from Cain -vs- Abel, down to the "Two witnesses"/last chaste Virgins -vs- the last adulterous Harlot/"two-horned" false prophet (Rev.13:11; Isa.28:15)(Rev.14:4-5). It is an enmity without rest, until the final battle is won.
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/01/spiritual-virginity-what-is-it.html

The wicked appear rich, powerful, and glorious. 
The faithful, appear despised, weak, and foolish 
 (1Cor.4:8-10,11-13; Rev.3:17-18;  2Cor.11:3-5,12-15,23-25,26-27,28,29-30; 12:9-10; 13:4)
Why those contrasting appearances?
Who is it, that rules over the desire of the eyes? Who is it that bestows worldly glory, dominion, power, and riches?
The unfaithful have a respectable appearance, because they have failed the test of Satan (Luke 4:5-7). In contrast, the faithful, are given the glory of Christ (John 17:22).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/12/glory.html

The wicked are the ones with worldly power, authority, and glory. Like the Jewish religious leaders; they are the ones responsible for the slaughter of the faithful (Matt.23:37,32,34-35; Rev.18:24; 6:10; 19:2). This has been going on, since Cain and Abel (1John 3:12; 2:9-11; 4:20-21).

As we learned above about the maturation of the sons of the kingdom... it takes time in the individual life of each chosen one, to reach the full grown stature of Christ, which entails a death for truth. While still a babe, such ones are under the stewardship of the wicked and powerful... similar to how Jesus was (Gal.4:4; Luke 2:46,50-52; John 1:11). 
As such ones grow to recognize the umbrella of corruption they are under; their truth-loving heart chaffs under the unjust oppression and deceptive doctrine (Eph.5:11; Rev.2:2-3;  2Cor.11:12-13; Ps.26:4; Eph.4:25). They no longer wish to condone the climate of rebelliousness toward God (Eze.2:6; Rev.9:3). They long to establish their loyalty and love for their heavenly Father and the truths of Jesus Christ 
(2Cor.10:3-5; Rev.19:11,14,8; 12:10-11; 17:14).
The result? 
They faithfully follow the path of Jesus, all the way to it's inevitable end... a death for truth. They become sealed as slaves to God alone.

There is no shortage of that wicked generation (Matt.23:33,36; Phil.2:15; John 8:44). But Jesus assures us, that if we seek them out, we will also be able to identify the righteous generation (Ps.14:5; 112:2; Matt.24:34; 7:20)... and those appointed by Jesus (Luke 12:42; Rev.11:3), who are faithful in providing the proper food at the proper time. 
https://pearl-finetrees.blogspot.com
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/10/who-really-is.html

We can recognize them, by their lasting fruit, and their fulfilling the sign of the Son of Man (Matt.12:40; 24:28; Rev.11:7-8).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-sign-of-son-of-man.html

So again I post your question;
"What about before watch tower was organized? Who did the anointed have to belong to then?

Before the "Watchtower" organization was formed; those anointed striving to be faithful, would need to divorce themselves from the powerful religious corruption surrounding them. We have within historical accounts, many who lived that pattern of both corruption and faithfulness.

The point that I hope was gleaned, is that in order to reign with Jesus, they Chosen must also prove faithful to the death, while being sifted by Satan their enemy. That is why they need to die in order to be sealed (Rev.6:9-11; Mark 8:35; Rev.12:10-11). 

This proves that despite Satanic temptation and persecution, their love of Christ and his truths, are more important to them than their own lives... just as was the case with Jesus. By manifesting that love in their righteous actions and choices (despite threat of death), they are sealed as slaves of God and qualified to inherit the Kingdom.

If any need assistance in order to understand this post, please contact me using the contact form in the right-side column of this page. That contact box can also be used to ask questions.
I hope my reply, addressed your need. Of course, the search box at the top can also be used to get more information than what is offered in this post, on any of the topics that were raised.

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