Showing posts sorted by date for query should elders replace god's anointed priests. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query should elders replace god's anointed priests. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

How do Anointed Rule as Kings?

Question received:

Hi Pearl, I was reading a really interesting post in Reddit where they were talking about the talk where we can trust ‘our kings’. They brought out that the New World Translation of the Jehovah's Witness Bible, inserted the words ‘as kings’ in Rev 20:4 and Rev.20:6. I had never noticed that before. I had always referred to the anointed as ‘kings and priests’ because that was what I was taught; But according to those verses, the anointed rule as priests and as Isaiah 32:1-2 brings out, as princes. 
Are there other scriptures which refer to the anointed as kings, or is that a false teaching to bolster the Governing Body’s power?
I know that in the days of Israel kings were anointed but the only scriptures I can find about the anointed refer to them as ruling as priests. It is so hard when you realise that so much of what you think is true is part of wormwood’s teachings and you don’t realise how much you still have to unlearn.

My Reply:

  I am wondering what their motive is, in adding "kings" to those verses. I suspect it is so that more subjection to the governing body can be invoked, and referring to them as presently being kings, firms up that idea.
  I also find it interesting that the contrast between a current kingship, and those not currently reigning, is described in prophecy (Rev.17:9,12-13). The governing body is rightly associated with the heads of the beast, who have already received their kingdom in this world. These prominent governing 7 rulers/mountains/kings/heads (Rev.17:9; Matt.5:14 YLT) who direct and control the body of the Beast/organization below them, stand in contrast to the 10 horns of the beast, who are kings that "have not yet received their kingdom" (Rev.17:12-13). As horns, they are used in the aggressive power exerted by the heads.

To see that the anointed are indeed designated as kings as well as priests...
Rev.1:5-6 reads: "and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, 6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."             (See NKJV version: LINK)

-- Jesus is identified to have an anointing as High Priest of God's spiritual temple (Heb.4:14; 9:11; 8:1-2; Eph.2:20-22;  1Pet.2:5). This position as a priest does not nullify his position as king (Heb.6:20; 7:1; Gen.14:18; Rev.19:16; Luke 1:32). Neither does it nullify the position of king, to the priests under the high priest...
As Rev.5:10 reads;
"10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God,
and *they will reign* on the earth.”
At no time did the usual anointing into the priesthood, include the capacity to reign. Priests are referred to as ministers 
(Jer.33:21 NKJV; Ex.39:41; Isa.61:6; Joel 1:9; Heb.8:1-2;  2Cor.3:6; 6:4; Rom.15:16; etc.). 
Priests should not normally reign. Kings reign.

   When the Bible does make a single reference to priests ruling (Jer.5:31); it is referring to a time of apostasy. This situation refers to when God's genuine priests are forcefully replaced by a  non-anointed, not chosen nor accepted by Godcounterfeit priesthood. 
That situation is what fulfills Mark 13:14 and Matt.24:15. The holy place, is God's priesthood (1Cor.3:16-17;  1Pet.2:5; Eph.2:20-22). Trespass into that position by anyone else, is an abomination (2Chron.23:6; Eze.44:6-7 NKJV; Mark 13:14; Matt.24:15).
(Dan.11:31; Eze.44:6-9;  2Chron.13:9;  2Thess.2:3-4; Eze.28:9-10).
       -   (https://who-are-gods?html)
       -    (https://FLEE-Where?html

Your verse at Rev.20:4 tells us that the kings that rule with Jesus DURING the 1,000 years, NEVER worshiped the beast or its image and had "not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands" (LINK). That unfaithful option to commit idolatry, arises after Satan's release, after the 1,000 years end, and after Satan creates and releases the great tribulation/test. (https://the-greatest-tribulation-what?-why?.html)
   At that point, the 1,000 years have ended (Rev.20:7), and the reign of the "first resurrected"-144000 who reign "with Christ" is then over (Rev.20:6,4)<end of verse 4. -- If Rev.20:4 tells us that the 144000 "reign with Christ for the thousand years"; is it being asserted on Reddit that during the thousand years, Jesus is not reigning as a king? If he is, then the 144000 are reigning with him 
(Col.1:13; Eph.5:5; Ps.2:6-7; Rev.14:1; Dan.7:13-14) (Dan.7:21-22,18,27; James 2:5;  2Tim.4:18; Eph.2:6; Rev.3:21).

  Rev.20:4 also describes these as being given authority to judge. That power was started in the first century, which can be seen at John 20:22-23 and  1Cor.6:1-2,3. 
Notice that in these references (Rev.20:4; 11:16; 4:4), it qualifies these kings and their authority, by mentioning that they sit on thrones. That is not a material throne, but that symbol points to their qualification (Rev.3:21;  1John 5:4) in imitation of their teacher (John 16:33).

-- Jesus also gave his apostles the example of washing their feet, to demonstrate how to behave toward other members of the Body of Christ, even while reigning. At one point, James and John, right after seeing the vision recorded at Matt.17:1-3, requested that they could fulfill the positions it depicted (Mark 10:37). 
Jesus counseled James and John, at Mark 10:42-45. 
The reign depicted by the organization, is a reflection of Satan's governments (Luke 4:5-6). No attempt is made to hide that, when using the title "Governing" Body. 
  At Mark 10:42-43,44-45, Jesus forbade that some anointed should rule in a worldly way, over their anointed brothers, OR over Gentiles who would be used to dominate and trample their anointed brothers. Obviously, that sort of domination would NOT be the kind of reign exercised by the kings over which Jesus himself reigns (Rev.19:16; 1:5; Rev.5:10 NKJV).

-- So then, what kind of authority and power is exercised by anointed kings under Christ? He is always our exemplar (John 13:15). He refused to accept the type of reign he forbade at Mark 10:42-45 cited above (John 6:15).
The kind of power and authority that Jesus exercised, is the same sort exercised by his under-kings (Luke 22:29). He described that authority and power at Luke 10:19 and John 18:36-37.
-- Luke 19 reads; "37 Then, as He was now drawing near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice *for all the mighty works they had seen,* 38 saying:
“ ‘Blessed is *the King* who comes in the name of the Lord!’ Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!' ”

-- The royal, "mighty works" the disciples had seen, was their king's ability to raise the dead, cure the sick, and teach the light of truth. Christ offered God's grace of repentance and life to God's nation 
(John 1:11-13; Gal.3:26; Ps.82:6;  2Pet.1:4) and the promised inheritance of Abraham would be given to those who accepted Christ (John 1:14; 17:22,2; Gal.3:29; Luke 4:16-17,18-19,20-21; Gen.22:18; Gal.3:29). Jesus foretold that the kings under him, would do similar works (John 14:12; Matt.10:7-8), but in a greater way (John 6:63).

The "king of kings" has outlined the nature of a righteous, spiritual reign by his own example (Rev.19:16). Those kings who remain under the kingdom of Christ, reign as he reigned. He was always submissive to his own King, the Father. We faithful anointed must also, employ our authority and power into submissive service to God and Christ (Rev.4:4,10-11; 22:1-2,3; John 1:51; Gen.28:12,14; Heb.1:6; 2:5,16; Gal.3:29).
Those who do not recognize "the kings of the earth" as anointed (Rev.1:5), but rather as governments within Satan's world, do not realize that Satan (not Jesus) is ruler over the world and it's governments (1John 5:19; Luke 4:5-6).  Jesus refused to be a part of the world (John 17:16;  1John 2:15-17; James 4:4; John 18:36). To believe that Jesus is a ruler of this world's governments, is error. That erroneous belief prevents an accurate interpretation or understanding of Revelation's prophecies.
 

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~
As regards your reference to Isa.32:1-2...
As you can see by the translation being used on this page (and others), "princes" can be translated as "Rulers". Jesus himself, who we have already proven is a king, was also referred to as a Prince, at Isa.9:6-7.
Why?
Our idea of a prince conveys the thought that he is under his father who is the actual king (Isa.32:1 NKJV).
That is true of both Christ (1Cor.15:24-25,26-27,28) and his fellow kings (Rev.19:16; 5:12-14; Gal.1:3-5).
Yet each assigned king, when found faithful with their use of royal authority and power, will receive their own dominion *(Luke 19:15,17), over which, is the dominion of a greater king.
[More information: *(https://two-appointments.html)

------------- Thank you for your good question!
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Tuesday, April 12, 2022

When do the Anointed Serve, as Priests?

Email received:
I think your interpretation of the Abomination of Desolation, might not be correct.  To sum up my thoughts, 1. I think the scriptures indicate that the anointed/elect are not serving as priests at this time.  2. They must run the race to the finish to receive the crown.  One does not finish their race until death or until Jesus coming at the end (whichever comes first).  
For certainty, only one has conquered and it is Jesus.  He is the sole King and Priest to Christians today.  3. Those "anointed" are simply due for this inheritance, should they finish the race and receive their victory crown.  

My reply:
[Readers: For more information about the "abomination of desolation"/"Disgusting thing" (Matt.24:15; Mark 13:14); there are many posts at this link: 

I can give you some scriptures/prophecies, that point to what we should expect (if we believe them), regarding your thoughts.
You said; 
"1. I think the scriptures indicate that the anointed/elect are not serving as priests at this time."

Reply #1. Although you state your belief that the scriptures indicate that the anointed are not serving in the capacity of priest at this time, you do not provide the scriptures which indicate this. Despite that, I'll provide the verses that indicate the contrary.
First, we need to establish what it means to serve as priest... what exactly are the duties? If we clarify what the priestly service is, it will be much easier to decide, whether or not it is being performed.

What service do God's anointed priests perform, when they are serving?

1Pet. 2:5,9-10
  "5 you yourselves, as living stones, a spiritual house, are being built to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. 9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his possession, so that you may declare the praises of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people"
Isa.43:21 
  "21 The people I formed for myself will declare my praise."
Heb.13:15 
  "15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God
that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name."
John 15:8 
  "8 My Father is glorified (praised) by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be my disciples."
Matt.5:16 
  "16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory (praise) to your Father in heaven."

From these previous verses we learn, that the spiritual sacrifices of Christ's priests, are the symbolic fruit from their lips (Heb.13:15). That fruit of lips, is teaching and light, which causes God to be praised and glorified. As Luke 6:43,45 below reveals, Jesus also defined that teaching/speech/lip, to be symbolic fruit.....

Luke 6:43-45
 "43 “A good tree doesn’t produce bad fruit; on the other hand, a bad tree doesn’t produce good fruit. 45 A good person produces good out of the good stored up in his heart. An evil person produces evil out of the evil stored up in his heart, for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart."
According to Jesus, the teaching is sourced in the heart."
Please read and meditate on the connection between Luke 6:43-45 above, 
and Luke 8:15; Prov.4:23 and John 4:14.
(for those on a phone, here is a link: (Cited Verses)]

Therefore, 
the "fruit of lips", which is the spiritual sacrifice performed by the priests, 
is the teaching they do, which is sourced from what is stored up in their heart. That storehouse is either "good"/sourced in the Word of God (Luke 8:11,15; John 7:16-17)(Matt.10:20;  2Pet. 1:21) or is bad/from a different source (2Cor. 11:3-4,13-14; Gal.1:6-7; John 8:47).
So a priest can either be faithful to the teaching sourced in Christ/holy spirit,
or unfaithful to divine truth. Such is the also the difference, between true and false prophets (Jer.23:28,32,21).
[Scripture link for those on a phone: (ScriptureLINK)]

So the critical question is... Are any anointed priests, now teaching?.... sourced in the good (Bible truth) that they have stored up in their heart? (Matt.28:19-20) If they are, then their sacrifices of giving praise to God, are being performed.
It is quite evident to me that by my life's dedicated work, as well as other anointed priests working with me, that your assertion which states that the priests are not serving, is not accurate. 
That was the case, while we were being dominated by the Gentile elders (Dan.8:11-13; 9:27; 11:31; Luke 21:24; Rev.13:10; Col.2:8; Rev.11:2; 13:7), but that was our previous condition while in captive subjugation (Dan.7:21-22,11,13-14,18,25-27). That is no longer our state of being. 
[Phone readers: (Bible link)]


2. Next you said; "One does not finish their race until death... must run the race to the finish, to receive the crown."

Reply#2.  Jesus himself declares what is needed to receive the crown of life.
Rev.2:10 tells us that we need to be faithful to the point of death to receive the crown. Yet Rev.3:11 tells us that we need to prevent others from taking the crown that we have. Is this death, physical? Mark 8:35 tells us that our life is lost, due to our loyalty to Jesus and the gospel. 
John 16:2 connects this death (and those who kill), to being expelled from the congregation. That expulsion, is a sentence and designation, of spiritual death. [Phone readers: (Bible link)]
It is as Paul said...
2Cor. 4:10
  "10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body."
Rom.6:5
  "5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his."
Rom.7:6
  "6 But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter."

There are many ways to be dead and to die, to be alive and to come to life (1John 3:14; Rom.8:9)...
only one way of which, is physical 
(1Tim. 5:6; Rev.3:1; Eph.2:1-2; John 5:24; James 1:12;  1John 3:14; Rom.5:17; 8:6,13,9; John 3:6; 1:12-13;  2Cor. 1:22;  1Pet. 1:23; Luke 8:11,15;  2Cor. 3:3; Luke 6:45). 
[Phone readers: (LINK)]
When you say the race must be ran to the end, does this end mean physical death?
Was Paul, physically dead, when he said the following?....
"7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2Tim. 4:7)

Winning the crown is only one symbol of victorious faithfulness, and only one of the rewards. 
There are other symbols for the reward of the faithful anointed.
The tree of life (Rev.2:7)
Not being harmed by the second death (Rev.2:11)
Hidden manna and a white stone (Rev.2:17)
Authority over the nations (Rev.2:26)
Dressed in white and name written in book of life, name declared before the Father and angels (Rev.3:5)
Installed permanently as a pillar of wisdom in God's heavenly temple, serving Jesus, the Father, and New Jerusalem, forever. (Rev.3:12)
Sit on the Father's throne, with Jesus (Rev.3:21; 12:5; 2:26-27)

--Many of these rewards are put to use, even while the priests are physically alive and actively serving.
[Phone readers: (LINK)]

These rewards are given to the faithful. 
How do we prove faithful?
By obeying Christ's instruction to his anointed...
to teach (Matt.28:19-20)
to emit light (Matt.5:14-16)
to bear the fruit of lips that gives glory to God (Heb.13:15)
--- These are some of the duties of God's anointed priests (1Pet. 2:5,9). 
Woe to them if they are not found faithfully doing so, before and upon the return of Christ.
1Cor. 9:16; Matt.24:46; Rev.12:17; 3:11; 2:25 [Phone readers: (LINK)]

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

3. Next you said; "Those 'anointed' are simply due for this inheritance, should they finish the race (die) and receive their victory crown (life)."

REPLY #3: Jesus gave his anointed priests, "talents" to use in his absence...
Mark 13:34
  "34 It’s like a man going away: he leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch."

We know that when that Master arrives, his slaves will have to give an account of how they handled their assignment (Matt.25:15,19). Did they fail to keep awake (Mark 13:36)? Did they hide the gold the master entrusted them with (Matt.25:25; John 15:6)? 
Or did their faith cause them to fearlessly preach/teach (Mal.2:7; *Rom.15:15-16; 12:1;  1Pet. 2:5), 
to the praise of the Father (Matt.25:25;  2Cor. 4:13; Heb.10:38)? 
[Phone readers: (LINK)]

How then, are they to wait until after Christ's return, before serving him as priest? 
How are they to be rewarded with the crown of life, if they failed to do their assignment as priest, even in the face of expulsion and death?
Our death, is precisely because we have produced, the fruit of lips **(Rev.6:9-11; Rev.12:11; Mark 8:35)**

You speak of needing to be victorious conquerors in the face of death, and yet waiting to serve.
How are both, simultaneously possible???
How can one surrender their life for truth, if they are silent?  
[Phone readers: (LINK)]
~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

You may also be interested in the links to follow,

Thursday, December 2, 2021

Abomination of Desolation toward the Constant Feature

Still Editing

QUESTION:
Would it really be reasonable to conclude that the "constant feature" mentioned at Daniel be "daily sacrifices", because such sacrifices were removed in the old covenant, and already made ONCE and for all time, by the High Priest?"

MY REPLY:
According to the New World Translation of the Bible used by those who call themselves Jehovah's Witnesses; Daniel 12:11 reads; 
"'And from the time that the constant [feature] has been removed and there has been a placing of the disgusting thing that is causing desolation, there will be one thousand two hundred and ninety days."

If as you acknowledge, Heb.10:12 NIV tells us that the sacrifice of Jesus is "effective forever"/"for all time"; 
...how is this the sacrifice that is removed and done away with? 
For that to be so; God's Word would be contradictory, which is not possible (John 17:17; Num.23:19; Rom.3:4). 

Can it be reasonable to conclude that the "constant feature" at Dan.12:11 is the daily sacrifices offered by the priests of God's Temple?
A closer consideration of Dan.12:11 tells us, that when the constant feature is removed,
it coincides with the disgusting thing that causes desolation, being placed in its position.

When we understand what that disgusting thing is, where it is placed, and how it is causing desolation to where it is... then we can see clearly, how it removes the constant feature, as well as what that constant feature is.

Jesus told us further details of this disgusting thing, and where it is placed.

According to Matt.24:15, Jesus said it is installed in "the holy place" where it causes desolation.
Where is the "holy place"?
The scriptures repeatedly tell us, that the "holy place" is in God's Temple 
(Ex.28:43 NKJV ; Ex.29:30 NKJV ;  1Chron.6:49; 23:32; Lev.6:16,26). 
Yet that original tabernacle of God, as well as other physical temples... no longer exist (Mark 13:1-2; John 4:20-21). 

Take note!... Moses was told, that the ancient tabernacle was merely a pattern of the eternal, spiritual, and heavenly temple to come (Heb.7:22,23; 8:5; Ex.25:40). 
That spiritual Temple, are, the living stones who comprise the priesthood of anointed in Christ 
(1Pet.2:5; Eph.2:20,21,22;  1Cor.3:16; Rev.5:10). 
God's spirit dwells in their hearts (Isa.57:15; Rom.5:5;  2Cor.1:22; Gal.4:6). 
They have become the "holy place" (1Cor.3:17; 6:19; Eph.2:20,21,22), 
the "holy city" (Ps.48:1; Rev.21:10,2,3; Ps.46:4; Dan.9:24), 
and the "holy mountain" Zion (Isa.56:7; Joel 2:1; Zech.8:3; Ps.24:3; Rev.14:1; 21:10) 
where the priests sacrifices are given, and God is served eternally 
(Eze.20:40; Num.25:13; 18:7,19; Rev.22:3 NIV ).

Mark 13:14 adds that the abomination of desolation is  installed / "standing" 
where it "does not belong".
What is it, that "does not belong" standing within or over God's spiritual Temple or its priests?
Num.18:7; Eze.44:5,6,7,8,9;  2Chron.23:6; Num.18:7; Isa.63:18; Jer.51:51
Obviously... anyone who is not an anointed priest, does not belong in the vicinity of the Holy Place,
  nor serving in a priestly capacity.


It is prophesied, that God's spiritual Temple, IS trespassed upon 
(Rev.11:2; Luke 21:20,24; Rev.13:10,7; Dan.7:25,21; 8:11,12,13,17,19; 10:14; 11:31,32,33; Rev.13:10).
Take note at Dan.8:11,12,13 and Dan.11:31, in each verse it speaks of the sacrifice as being "regular". 
That word denotes that it is not one sacrifice for all time, but a sacrifice that is offered, repeatedly.

Please take note of the connection between the "abomination of desolation" spoken about by Daniel (Matt.24:15; Dan.11:36,37) 
and the "Man of Lawlessness" who is also prophesied to enter God's Holy place / Temple and usurp it... 2Thess.2:3-4. 
God's Temple, the Holy Place... is where that "Man", takes his seat / throne.
Does an identity of lawlessness, belong over God's holy Temple? (Mark 13:14)

Daniel told us what happens, when the "Man of Lawlessness" trespasses and conquers the Temple priesthood of anointed saints 
(Dan.11:31; 9:26,27; 8:11,12).

These two additions contained in Matt.24:15 and Mark 13:14 made clear,
that the constant feature that is removed (Dan.12:11), can certainly be the DAILY, priestly sacrifices.
Heb.10:12 NIV assured us that the constant feature that is removed, cannot be, the value of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ's life.
Dan.8:11 makes plain, that the sanctuary is overthrown. That is where the priests render their daily sacrifices. If overthrown and forced to cease sacrificing; that daily, regular sacrifice, is abolished (Dan.12:11; 8:11; 11:31).

God's priests properly have over them, their high priest.... their commander and head (Rev.19:11,14; 17:14; Heb.4:14; 8:1; 9:11). 
That changes when the sanctuary is taken from him (Dan.8:11-12) 
       ["Prince of heavenly army" -Dan.8:11; 11:22; Rev.19:11,14,8; 17:14; Eph.2:6; Rev.3:21].
       Without their attachment to Jesus, his priests can do nothing (John 15:5-6). 
       The fruit of their lips, ceases (Heb.13:15 NKJV ; Luke 6:43-45; John 15:5; Dan.8:11-12)
It is Jesus Christ, who had taken from him, the offerings of his priesthood
Unlike the perpetual sacrifice of Jesus Christ, established for all time;
the sacrifices of the anointed priests, CAN be halted... AND clearly ARE.


The reasoning you give in your question, asserts that the constant feature cannot be any sacrifice other than that of Christ, because 
"such sacrifices were removed in the old covenant"..... ", "and already made ONCE and for all time, by the High Priest?"
Is that true? 
Are the regular sacrifices of God's anointed priesthood, non-existent since the old covenant ended?
Did the one, perfect sacrifice of Jesus, make all priestly sacrifices of the new, spiritual temple, unnecessary?
We were told that the original tabernacle is a perfect pattern of the heavenly priesthood to come (Heb.8:5).
Is that pattern wrong when it comes to the sacrifices that the original priesthood had to offer, day and night..."daily"? 
(Ex.29:39; Lev.6:20;  1Chron.9:33; 16:40; 23:30;  2Chron.2:4; 13:11; Ezra 3:3; Rev.7:15; Dan.8:26,19)


Let's take a look at what is expected of the priests of God's spiritual Temple.

Jesus assigned his slaves, talents/bags of gold 
(John 12:49; 20:21; Ps.12:6 NIV ; Matt.25:14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,24,25,26,27,28,29,30). 
The slave that did not make good use of that 'talent/gold'...
      (Col.3:24;  2Tim.4:2;  1Cor.9:16), 
...was judged as unfaithful.
What 'gold' did Jesus give his anointed slaves, to make good use of? 
Truths of God... and the priests are required to teach it.
Mal.2:7; Matt.28:19,20

Heb.13:15 reads;
"15 Therefore by Him let US CONTINUALLY offer the SACRIFICE of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name."
(1Pet.2:9; Isa.43:21,10)
Rev.4: "8 Day and night they NEVER STOP, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God, the Almighty, who was, who is, and who is to come."
---Yes, that sacrifice of praise IS, a continual, constant feature....
       even for the new Temple priesthood... a fulfillment of the previous pattern (Heb.8:5; 9:24)

So, is there any other sacrifice, other than the life of Christ? 
According to Heb.13:15, is it required continually?

Isa.43:21 reads;
"This PEOPLE, I have formed for Myself;
That they shall declare My praise."
Isa.43:10a "‘You are my witnesses,’ declares the Lord,
    ‘and my servant whom I have CHOSEN"

Who are the people formed and chosen by God (Lev.20:26), and assigned to declare His praise
     (the fruit of lips -Heb.13:15)
1Pet.2:
"9 But you are a CHOSEN generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special PEOPLE
that YOU may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness, into His marvelous light".

So, when you assume that the death of Christ is the only sacrifice...
        (there are many kinds of spiritual sacrifices still required and 
         incumbent upon the anointed priests of God's spiritual temple), 
...and you assume that God's anointed priests are not required to be actively, constantly serving, as priests and kings...
then consider Rev.5:10 reads;
"And have made us kings and priests to serve our God;
And we shall reign on the earth.”
[ also Rev.22:3 NIV ;  1Pet.2:5]
Many, many scriptures, speak to the urgency and endurance needed, 
of preaching the truth to the praise of God (Matt.5:16;  1Pet.2:12).
"Drawing back" from performing that constant feature of God's abode, is condemned in a great many verses as well 
(2Cor.5:20;  2Pet.3:9; Heb.10:36,38-39;  1Tim.4:16;  1Cor.9:16).

When the "disgusting thing"/'abomination"... DESOLATES and tramples the Holy Place,
the priests that are assigned to serve there, can NO LONGER perform their duties of preaching the unchanging truth, that is sourced in Christ 
(John 15:4,5; Matt.10:27; John 16:13,14; 15:16; 7:18; Matt.24:35; Luke 21:15).

John 15:16; Heb.13:15; Dan.8:11,12; 12:11


Previous posts on this topic: 

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Should JW Elders, Replace God's Anointed Priests?

QUESTION RECEIVED:
Is there some scriptural basis for the JW elder arrangement given the accounts at Exodus 18:17-27 and Numbers 11:16-17?" (TO READ: LINK)

MY REPLY:
Just as brother-in-law marriage no longer applies under Christ,
No... the appointing of anyone to replace the anointed body members of Jesus Christ, is not permissible. 
Please consider:
Heb.8: "5 They (the original priesthood) serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: ‘See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.’ 6 But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.
7 For if there had been nothing wrong with that first covenant, no place would have been sought for another. 8 But God found fault with the people and said:
‘The days are coming, declares the Lord,
    when I will make a new covenant
with the people of Israel
    and with the people of Judah.
9 It will not be like the covenant
    I made with their ancestors
when I took them by the hand
    to lead them out of Egypt,
because they did not remain faithful to my covenant,
    and I turned away from them,
declares the Lord."
---
As you can see, the spiritual heavenly temple made of living stones 
(Eph.2:6; Heb.12:23; 8:5;  1Pet.2:5) 
is NOT patterned after the helpers of Moses.
It was patterned after the original tent of God and the priests that served in that tabernacle.

If you read Num.3:10; 18:7;  2Chron.23:6,7 you will see that the original pattern did not allow anyone to enter the tabernacle, or serve in capacity of priest, unless they were of the chosen, anointed, and consecrated priesthood.
As was the case with Moses; Helpers are not needed to assist one man to lead God's people today.

Since Christ, there is an anointed priesthood, 
chosen by God Himself to perform the duties of that Temple 
(Rev.1:5,6; 5:9,10; Mal.2:7;  1Cor.6:1-3).
If you do not understand the difference between the spiritual Jew and the spiritual Gentile,
you will not be able to "catch sight" of the "disgusting thing, standing in the holy place"/"abomination of desolation" 
(Matt.24:15; Mark 13:14>"standing where it does not belong"). 

If you do not recognize the existence and identity of the "abomination of desolation"/"disgusting thing in the holy place";... 
How will you be in a position, to flee from it??? (Dan.11:31; Matt.24:15,16; Rev.18:4; Jer.51:6; 48:6)

The "abomination" that desolates God's anointed priesthood, is an Idol... 
the image of the Beast as having God's spirit (Rev.13:11,15,7,8)... an image given by the false prophet.

 Rev.13:11;  2Cor.11:13,14,15)

When we slave for an Image and obey its every command; that is worship that belongs to God alone. Those who accept a position in which they are obeyed without question, are making themselves, God.

You are also in danger of not recognizing the "man of lawlessness", when he takes his seat, enthroned over God's Temple and its priesthood (2Thess.2:4;  1Cor.3:16;  1Pet.2:5,9).
None should take headship over the Bride members of Christ, except Jesus Christ 
(Eph.5:23,25,30,31,32;  1Cor.6:17; John 17:21,22,23; Col.1:18).

 (2Thess.2:4)

You will not discern either of these blasphemous realities, unless you allow all of God's word to guide you, and you continue learning it.
If you search out or subscribe to, erroneous justifications for breaking God's statutes,
you are in danger of believing the Lie (2Thess.2:8-12). 
Rev.13:11,15

Wednesday, July 4, 2018

Programs of Sept.16 and Oct.14, 2018 [] Revelation, ch.20, verses 1-10

This written post below, should be used as a backdrop to the
                    recorded program of Sept.16, located here:
                    https://soundcloud.com/rick-fearon/healing-river-sept-16-2018-anointed-former-jehovahs-witness-pearl-doxsey
                    recorded program of Oct.14, located here:
                    https://soundcloud.com/rick-fearon/healing-river-oct-14-2018-anointed-former-jehovahs-witness-pearl-doxsey
                    recorded program of Oct.28, located here:
                    https://soundcloud.com/rick-fearon/healing-river-oct-28-2018-anointed-former-jehovahs-witness-pearl-doxsey
This post below, contains the pop up scriptures that are cited during the audio programs,
so that you may follow along with ease.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

In previous programs, we covered the symbolic nature of the so-called, "thousand years" of Jesus' reign. We also covered, when Jesus reign of the symbolic "thousand years", began, and established that it started in the first century.
"Thousand Year" reign, When?
Matt.16:28; Luke 22:69; Ps.110:1;  1Cor.15:25
He is seated on a cloud, as if on a throne, because he is a king over other kings that comprise that cloud, as head of his bride congregation (Col.1:16-17,18).

We learned that Jesus' coming on the clouds, is defined for us in the Bible:
Coming on clouds:
Heb.12:1; John 1:51; Mark 12:25; Eph.2:6; Matt.10:40,14

Jesus' throne/reign is over his Bride congregation/Zion because he is "king of kings" (Rev.5:10; 19:16).
The scepter of his rule, is THROUGH Zion/cloud-witnesses of heaven
Ps.110:1-2;  2Cor.10:3-4,5; Eph.6:10-11,12-13;  2Cor.6:7; Rev.17:14; 12:10-11

The symbolic throne of Jesus regal power and authority, is glorious (Matt.25:31).
That glorious authority and power is not seen physically, because his glory is grace and truth (John 1:14), above which he is seated (Rev.22:1). 
Those who overcome the dark deceptions of Satan...
  (Eph.6:12;  1John 5:4; 2:14; Rom.13:12; Isa.54:17; Luke 21:15; Eph.5:8;  1Pet.2:9), 
...by upholding Gods' truths to the death (Mark 8:35; Rom.6:5; Rev.6:9-10,11; 12:9,11), 
...are also granted the same power and authority over grace and truth (Rev.3:21; Luke 10:19) as kings.   They extend the ruling scepter of Jesus' throne/grace and truth, through Zion, just as Ps.110:2 states... thereby assisting Jesus in conquering his enemies and making them a footstool for his feet (Ps.110:1-2;  1Cor.15:25) by the power God supplies (Eph.6:11,13; Rom.14:4; 16:20).

Since the symbolic reign of Jesus began in the first century...
   when and why, does his reign come to an end? How do the scriptures help us to recognize the end of Jesus' "thousand year" kingdom? What would cause the power and authority of Jesus and Zion, to conclude?
  Since Jesus reign is expressed through Zion (Ps.110:2; Rev.14:1;  2Cor.5:20; John 13:20);
    ...Could that reign continue, if the present members of Zion became conquered by a different power and authority? (2Cor.11:2-3,4-5,20,12-13,14-15;  1Tim.4:1)

What if the headship of Jesus over God's Temple (1Cor.3:16; Eph.2:20-21,22;  1Pet.2:5,9-10),
were taken away from Jesus, and his subjects, taken captive by his enemy?
Rev.13:7,10; Luke 21:24; Dan.8:11-12,24; 11:31,21;  2Thess.2:4;  1Cor.3:16; Rev.11:2; Matt.5:13;  2Chron.13:5;  2Cor.11:20; Col.2:8; Rev.13:10,7; Rev.13:16; Deut.11:18

God's Word introduces us to the thousand years, in Rev.20, as well as the reasons why, the reign of Jesus, effectually ends.
Prophecy has much to say about the end of Jesus "thousand year" reign. As we assemble the pieces of prophecy that relate to that period and its' circumstances, the picture emerges.

We are going to examine Rev.20:1-10, where the Bible depicts for us, the end of the thousand year reign of Jesus.

VERSE ONE: Rev.20:1

Establish that the abyss of Revelation, and Hades, are two ways of describing, the same place.
Rom.10:7; Acts 2:24,27,31; Rev.1:18
(Previous program covered "Hades")(Suggest Blog search: Sheol Hades)
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2017/04/what-is-sheole-hades.html
--
Hades when translated, means "not perceiving" (e.g. Mark 4:12). 
As covered in previous posts and audio program, it is the consignment of all those born under sin, and its meaning is to be under a blanket of spiritual darkness, ignorance, and confusion. Only those granted light, truth, and understanding, are figuratively rescued from the realm of Hades.

When Jesus tells us that he has the keys to Hades/Abyss... this means that he has the power and authority to release whom he chooses, from spiritual darkness... and transfer into his kingdom of light and life (Matt.16:17-18; Col.1:13; Luke 8:10; 4:18-21; Isa.49:9) those who are repentant (John 1:4; 5:40; Matt.13:14-15). 

Jesus also has the authority and power to lock up others... or to leave them there, in ignorance and spiritual darkness (Rev.3:7-8; Matt.13:10-11,13-14,15-16; Jude 1:13; John 12:35) those hard-hearted who are not repentant. Such ones remain under the authority and power of the Devil (2Cor.4:4; John 3:18).

When Rev.20:1 tells us that the chain of restraint that Jesus possesses is "great"; this points to the ability of Jesus, to prevent understanding and perception among the blind, but proud (John 9:41). When Jesus wraps that symbolic chain around the Devil, and then casts the Devil into the Abyss/Hades... this depicts for us, Satan's blind inability to mislead those whom Jesus rescues from darkness... because it is now Satan who is overcome by the blind confusion of his own realm.

Jesus also shares his keys (power and authority) to release from the abyss (or bind in chains of ignorance) (Matt.16:19; 18:18). Christ's enlightened and anointed brothers and royal priests, may also judge as others as repentant (John 20:23) and worthy of the treasures of truth which they are empowered by Jesus, to impart (Matt.10:7,11-12,13-14; 7:6; Rev.5:10; Mal.2:7).
 [re-read Rev.20:1]

VERSE TWO Rev.20:2

Mark 3:27; Isa.49:24-25
Rev.13:10; Col.2:8; Matt.24:24-25; 19:26; Col.1:13;  1Thess.5:4-5;  2Cor.2:11
So, during the reign of Jesus, the 144,000 of Zion (Rev.14:1), are children and warrior kings, of Light 
(2Cor.4:6; Eph.5:8;  1Thess.5:5; Matt.5:14-15,16)(Rom.13:12;  2Cor.6:7;  1Cor.10:3-4,5; Eph.6:12).
--
While the Devil is restrained in the dark abyss of Hades... he cannot perceive a method of overcoming the light within those who belong to Christ (Matt.16:18; John 1:5; Luke 10:19; Col.1:13) for the period during which, Jesus reigns over his congregations (Eph.4:14-15,16; John 15:5)... during the symbolic "thousand years". During Christ's kingdom, the royal priesthood under Christ have spiritual perception. They are not ignorant of Satan's manipulative devices (2Cor.2:11). They have been rescued from his realm (Luke 4:18; Isa.49:9,24-25; Mark 3:27; Luke 11:21-22; Rev.20:1-2,3).

Abyss-Hades ("not perceiving"). 
How were the "nations" mislead by Satan? Who are the nations who will no longer be mislead?
We know that the world of unbelievers are already blinded by Satan (2Cor.4:4; Eph.2:2) and the world is already under Satan's influence and power (1John 5:19). So the nations that Satan is not able to deceive anymore, are those belonging to Christ, just as the previous scriptures contained in our examination of Rev.20:1-2, confirm.
Those of faith are rescued from the dominion of darkness (Col.1:13;  1Pet.2:9), because the light of Christ shines in their hearts (2Cor.4:6) and the Devil is prevented from swallowing them down into darkness (2Cor.2:11;  1Pet.5:8-9).

Can the nations that are no longer deceived during Jesus "thousand years", also be at the same time, Christ's congregation? (See Rev.5:9-10; Rom.1:16; Matt.28:19)
Those of the nations that were rescued from Satanic deception, need not be of Satan's world (1John 5:19).
Those of all national groups spoken of in Rev.20:3, can be of his congregation (Rev.5:10). 
Yet after Satan's release, the Bible tells us that Satan goes forth to mislead them 
(Rev.12:15,17,9; Matt.24:4; Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8; Luke 21:24,20; Rev.20:9). 
For a time, he is successful, due to the success of his messengers... 
(Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 13:11,15,7-8; 9:1-3; Joel 2:2; Dan.8:11-12,13; Rev.11:2; 13:7; Dan.11:31-32,33-34,35; 12:10,7-8,9,3-4,1)

We see that at the same time as the thousand years ending; the Devil is set free from the abyss (Hades: "not perceiving") of blindness. He is then able to discern and perceive how to deceive the nations of God.
1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 13:7,10; Col.2:8; Matt.24:5,24-25,22
So after Satan's release, he is able mislead all the present remnant... all the previously enlightened nations belonging to God...  during the Great Tribulation (Dan.8:11-12,24; Col.2:19; John 15:5-6).

Who sits on thrones to judge the Israel of God?
Matt.19:28; Luke 22:30; Rev.21:12,14,27;  1Cor.3:10-11; Eph.2:20-21,22
--
Those who reign with Jesus before Satan's release from the abyss, never fell prey to the Beast or it's image, or were branded as it's captive slaves. According to Rev.20:5 they "came to life", first.
(Previous audio program linked above, covered how and when, disciples of the past, come to life - Col.2:13; John 5:24; Mark 8:35)
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/10/coming-to-life.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/02/there-are-those-who-wonder-if-my_7388.html
According to Rev.7:4 they are the 144,000 who reign with Jesus during his thousand year kingdom.
Those who come to life spiritually after Satan's release, are at Rev.7:9-10 and Rev.6:11 (Rev.20:5)
  Rev.7:14 - They come through the Great Tribulation. They had to "wash their robes" to remove the stain of their sin (Rev.6:9-10,11; Rom.6:5; Mark 8:35).
  Rev.7:16-17 - As discipline, they suffered hunger and thirst and the scorching heat of the sun (Heb.12:6; Ps.11:6; Rev.16:8; Zech.13:9; Isa.48:10; 58:11), before being given, living water (Rev.7:17; John 4:10,14; Rev.22:17).

--So the "144000" come to spiritual life, during Jesus "thousand year" kingdom, which started in the first century. 
They were never exposed to Satan's release, nor his final machination of the Great Tribulation. They never fell prey to demonic teachings, captivity to deception, or idolatry to Satan's alliance of Beasts... the false prophet (Rev.13:11; 19:20) or the Gentile organization to which that false prophet, is benefactor (Dan.8:24; 11:23; Rev.13:15) (Rev.13:1,4,11,14-15; 16:14;  1Tim.4:1).
(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=alliance)
--(https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/why-jesus-came-to-earth-last-world.html)

VERSE FIVE Rev.20:5

The rest of the dead (Rev.12:17) (Eph.2:1; Col.2:13) do not come to life (John 5:24), until after Satan is released and conquered (Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 17:4; 20:9; 11:5; Jer.5:14; Hosea 6:5) (Rev.6:7-8;  1Cor.15:26). 

The remaining ones of the woman's seed, are the ones that must contend with Satan's magnum opus of deception, channeled through the false prophet and Sea Beast (Rev.16:13-14,15-16;  1Tim.4:1), and the loss of Jesus' authority and power over his congregation (Rev.13:7; Dan.9:26; 8:11) to the anti-Christ, the Man of Lawlessness/Sin (2Thess.2:4). 

The remnant have greater tribulation and darkness to deal with, in comparison to those who reigned with Christ while Satan was still restrained in the abyss. Due to subjection to Satan's agents, the "great crowd" are made vulnerable to, the "second death", unlike their predecessors (Rev.20:6).
[Release of second death is depicted at (Rev.6:7-8; Rev.4:8; Isa.62:6) (Eze.14:4,21; Rev.6:8) and is announced by the fourth watchman of the night.]
Rev.20:5
------------------------------------------

VERSE SIX  Rev.20:6

The second death has no power over those who reign with Jesus during the 1,000 years (Luke 10:19; John 15:7-8).
The second death, is the Lake of Fire (Rev.20:14; 15:2; 4:6; Hosea 6:5; Isa.33:1; Rev.9:11; Isa.30:33; Rev.14:10; 19:20; 20:10), which means God's judgment of condemnation (Gen.19:24; Hosea 6:5; Rev.11:5; 20:9; 19:11,14; Eph.2:6)(John 15:6;  1Cor.3:11-12,13-14,15;  2Pet.3:7,10-11,12) (Jer.5:14; Rev.11:5; Matt.10:20; John 16:8 -- Rev.20:12; John 12:48; 1:14; 17:3,17).

When Satan IS released and able to deceive the holy ones (Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8), the second death is able to overpower them. 
Their idolatry toward the image of the beast...
(Rev.13:7-8,10; 2:20;  2Cor.11:4,20,3; Rev.13:10; Col.2:8;  1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-16; 17:14), 
...causes them to come under God's condemnation (Ex.20:3-5; Rev.2:20).
Though having been born again and having received a second life of spirit (John 1:12-13; 3:6; Rom.8:9;  2Pet.1:4; John 10:35; Ps.82:6), that life/crown is stolen from them (Rev.3:11; James 1:12) and they die again, the second death, which can only occur to those who have received the second birth. 
The harlot has given their crown of power and authority, to the locust-scorpions (Isa.23:8; Rev.9:7). That is when the abomination of desolation is standing in the holy place (Mark 13:14;  2Thess.2:4)
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2015/01/who-are-gods.html
   [If they repent (Rev.2:16; 3:3,19), they can receive that crown back again (Rev.2:10; Rom.6:5)(Eze.34:13-14; Mark 13:14; Eze.7:16; Jer.31:6) (Matt.13:15; Ps.103:3; Rev.3:18; 7:14)]

When Jesus is no longer, head of his congregation; how will that disconnect, effect it? What do they lose? 
(Col.2:19,6-7,8; John 15:5; 8:12; 11:10; 9:4; Amos 5:20; Matt.24:29; Rev.9:1-2,3; Joel 2:2; Jer.13:16).
---They become vulnerable to being taken captive to deception. 
Remember Rev.13:10 (Col.2:8)
Those who are deceived after Satan's release, lose connection to Christ (Col.2:13; John 15:4-5). They surrender their royal authority (Rev.17:13;  2Chron.13:5; Matt.5:13; Rev.11:2; Luke 21:24) and become captive slaves to the false prophet and it's beast. (Rev.2:20; 13:7,10; Col.2:8)
They are idolaters, through their dedicated service to the Image of the Beast. They are no longer "alive in Christ" as the 144,000 were (1Cor.15:22; Eph.2:5; Rom.6:11). Rather than having the slave mark of God (Deut.11:18; Rev.14:1) they are branded as slaves to the Beast (Rev.13:16,7). 
They are not immune to the "second death" as their predecessors, were.

How are those who are overcome by the Great Tribulation and it's alliance of a false prophet and Beast, to regain their crown of life? How can they come out from under the trampling and captivity, to that alliance of Satan?
  Rev.20:4-5,6
There is a contrast between those who are raised from death first and exercise their power and authority as priests and kings, during the "thousand years", 
and the "rest", who come to life after the "thousand years". 
The rest, are those who face the last enemy Death, and it's agents from the abyss... the "locust scorpions", depicted collectively as the Wild Beast (Rev.9:1-2,3; 11:7; Joel 2:2; Eze.2:6).

So, the "thousand years" ends... Satan is released. He puts his demonic teachings/spirits, into the false prophet and Beast 
(1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 13:11,14-15;  1Kings 22:21-22,23; Rev.19:20). 
That two-horned false prophet becomes benefactor to the Beast (Luke 22:25; Dan.8:24; 11:23), by breathing Satan's spirit and ability to deceive, into the image of the Beast (Rev.13:15). As Rev.13:7,10 tell us, the saints are then conquered and taken captive (Col.2:8; Rev.13:10) in harmony with Luke 21:24. Dan.8:11-12,24-25; 11:31-32,33-34,35-36; 9:26
For a review of these events and the associated scriptures; the previous parts of this post can be considered.

So the Great Tribulation brings trampling and desolation to the remaining ones of the woman's seed, with which Satan is at war (Rev.12:17,15; Dan.9:26; Mark 13:14). 
For a time they are conquered by 
    Satan's release (Rev.13:7) 
    the power he grants to the false prophet (Rev.9:1; 8:10-11; 16:13-16; 13:11;  1Tim.4:1) 
    and Beast which that prophet, benefits (Dan.8:24; 11:23; Rev.13:15; 19:20; Luke 22:25). 
Jesus draws the contrast between worldly rule (Matt.4:8-9), within which the title "benefactor" is given to those who rule with all the splendor of earthly display and luxury, 
..and divine kingdom, in which it belongs only to those whose work is that of humble, obscure and often, menial service to God's grace, spirit, and truth 
(Matt.20:26-27,28; Mark 10:42-43; Luke 17:10; 18:16).

Why does God allow His sanctuary and it's royal priesthood, to be trampled?
We get a brief answer from Jesus, at Matt.5:13.
Those being trampled, have lost the strength of their covenant of salt with God... to be kings (2Chron.13:5). As Jesus said at John 18:37, the chosen are to use their royal authority and power just as Jesus did, and take their stand for truth, to the death (Rev.6:9-10,11; Mark 8:35). 
If they've lost the strength of that conviction and allow themselves to be mislead and enslaved into idolatry; then they lose their connection to Christ, without whom, they can do nothing (John 15:5) to resist Satan's Great Tribulation.

So we learn at Rev.13:7-8; 2:20; 13:7-8 that Satan's release brings with it, a plague of idolatry, even among the chosen. They are consequently, not safe from the second death or the Lake of Fire, in contrast to the preceding chosen, who reigned with Christ before the thousand years ended, and before Satan's release (Rev.20:4-5).
What hope is there for those overcome by the Great Tribulation?
Rev.7:14; 19:8; 6:9-10,11; 12:10-11; Mark 8:35

Throughout the first three chapters of Revelation, Jesus supplicates his own slaves, to repent.
How do we know that repentance is warranted, in the time of Jesus return and the conclusion of the age (Matt.24:3)? (Rev.3:3;  2Pet.3:10;  1Thess.5:2,6)
What are we told about all ten virgins, when the Bridegroom is arriving? Matt.25:5-6 (Heb.13:13)
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2012/12/some-have-told-me-that-buying-and.html
They all were asleep (1Thess.5:6-7; Rev.14:8) (Rev.5:9-10)
https://pearl-kingsofearth.blogspot.com
Repentance is needed, at the time of Christ's return (Luke 18:8; Eph.4:5)
(1Pet.4:17; Luke 18:8; Amos 5:18;  1Thess.5:2; Matt.24:43; 25:1,5;  2Pet.3:10-11,12-13)
-----------------------

Why is the Second Death described symbolically as a Lake of Fire?
A Lake is normally made of life-giving water. Truth is often symbolized by water. But this lake, contains fire.
Isa.4:4; Num.31:23; Zech.13:9;  1Cor.3:13-14; Mal.3:1-2,3; Rev.11:3-4,5; Jer.5:14; 23:29,32
If we refuse correction and repent, the final judgments of God will consume, condemn, and destroy us... if we do not prove faithful repentance (Mark 8:35; Rev.11:7; 6:11; 12:11; 9:18,20; 13:8).
If we do repent, we can be refined by the fire of God's standards found in His Word of truth (Jer.23:29; Zech.13:9; Job 23:10; Rev.3:18), repent, and be cleansed into a clean standing with God.
Rev.7,10,14; Eze.37:23;  2Cor.6:16; Rev.21:3

VERSE SEVEN Rev.20:7

How is Satan, released from his chains, and then enabled to deceive God's people?
Rev.8:10-11; 9:1 describe how Satan's dark deceptions are released.
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2014/08/who-has-key-to-abyss.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=the+fallen+star

We see an identity that was "burning as a great lamp" (Matt.5:15; John 5:35; Rev.1:20).
It fell from heaven (2Pet.3:17) and left God's grace and truth (2Cor.6:1). 
They accepted a "key" of power and authority (Matt.4:8-10;  1John 2:15-16; Luke 6:24; Rev.3:17-18), 
to open Satan's dark abyss of deception and confusion. They conjure up and release from the depths of Hades, Satan's power to stifle and becloud spiritual perception. (Eze.34:18-19; Rev.4:6).
God allows this force of discipline, because their love of truth is cooled (2Thess.2:9-10; Rev.2:4) 
That fallen star "Wormwood" who gains a key to the Abyss, releases an ally (Rev.9:1-2,3; 13:14-15; 19:20; Joel 2:2; Jer.13:16).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/search?q=the+fallen+star
Those who are overcome by that military force (Rev.9:3; Eze.2:6), are overcome by the deceptions of Satan, who is now free to empower his collective Beast (locust-scorpion constituents) and it's false prophet (Wormwood)... 
     (Rev.13:4,7; 9:1-3; Matt.24:29; Joel 2:1-2; Jer.13:16-17; Isa.25:7; 59:9; 5:26-30; 
      Joel 2:1-2,3,10; Matt.24:6; Dan.11:36;  2Thess.2:4; Matt.24:15-16) 
...with demonic teachings (Rev.16:13-14,15-16;  1Tim.4:1).
(Suggest https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-greatest-tribulation-why.html)

When we are agents of deceptive doctrine, we support the father of the lie (Rev.16:13-14; 13:11; John 8:44). Satan works through human agents in the physical realm (2Cor.11:13-14,15; Rev.13:11).
When a prophet falls from grace by their teaching for Satan and the demons, 
  promoting their demonic power to deceive, 
    and by being Satan's messenger to God's people; 
--it is equivalent to the analogy of Satan being released from restraint, advancing into the land of God, and gaining command over God's nation. The result to the remnant is a desolation, captivity, and trampling down.

Think of how God's nation was lead astray into idolatry in the past. Israel's kings became corrupt and turned to false gods. They largely refused to heed God's warning through His prophets 
(Jer.35:15; 44:5; Rev.11:3; 11:7; Jer.26:5-6; Matt.23:37-38). 
God's land became adulterous due to an alliance with God's enemy, Satan. After having lost God's protection as a consequence, they compounded their error by turning to the nations around them for support and protection, furthering their acts of licentious harlotry.

Do you see any identity today, that has taken a leadership role over the people of God, 
  become worshipful toward an image, 
    become a false prophet, 
      accepted worldly position, riches, and power
        and having turned to the nations for support rather than their God?

Faithful obedience to the warnings of the past, the teaching of Christ, and the warnings of prophecy, are all a protection from Satan's power. Only if we strictly follow the narrow path of Christ, will anointed kings be enabled to avoid the pitfalls of Satanic temptation. 
If such a royal priest and prophet becomes unfaithful, well then, through such a leading steward over God's household, Satan becomes loosed to mislead God's nation (Rev.8:10-11; 2:20;  2Thess.2:9-10,11-12). This is the very scenario depicted within Revelation, and prophesied to occur during the Great Tribulation.

Under the era of the New Covenant, Jesus installs a steward over his household (Luke 21:24; Rev.1:20; Eph.2:20-21,22). Jesus said that such a steward could prove either faithful or unfaithful, and he gave the traits of both sorts.
If unfaithful, that prophet would not be providing the proper spiritual information at the time it was needed. Revelation tells us clearly, that when the events described take place... God's people are brought into subjection and trampled, by an image that appears to be spirit-breathed/directed/inspired (Rev.13:15; John 20:22)(Rev.13:7-8,10). Why would they do that... if the steward over them were dispensing the right information at the right time??? 

Revelation tells us plainly, that the entity which empowers the Beast to dominate the chosen, is a false prophet. Why not accept this simple description? (Matt.24:4-5,24-25). We see the false prophet of Rev.13:11, deceiving people from all nations, to share in the work of erecting the Beast's Image, and requiring worship to it (Rev.13:14; 19:20). 
Why does God call this two-horned beast, a false prophet, if it is two secular countries? Are the four horns of the golden altar that is before God (Rev.9:13), also four countries? Are the seven horns on Jesus head, also countries? (Rev.5:6). 
There is no reason found in the Bible, to interpret the two-horned false prophet, as the United States and Britain. But there is ample reason found in the Bible, to accept God's chosen terminology of "false prophet", as the identity who is misleading God's people into idolatry (Matt.24:4-5,24-25; Rev.2:20; 18:4; Dan.11:21,31-32).
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2015/01/is-wicked-steward-real.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2018/02/who-is-false-prophet-who-gives-breath.html

VERSE EIGHT Rev.20:8

"go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth" (Rev.16:13-14; 17:1-2,15; Joel 3:9-10,11-12,13-14,15-16,17,20-21; Rev.6:9-10; 19:1-2; 18:8,24,20) (Deut.4:27; 28:64; Rev.13:8,7,10; Mark 13:27; Jer.9:15-16; Rev.8:11)
1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 19:20; 13:11,14-15; 9:13-14,15; Matt.24:5,24-25;  2Thess.2:9; Dan.8:24-25,12
"Gog and Magog" Once again we see an alliance depicted, which mobilizes, as a result of being deceived (Matt.24:4-5;  1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13-14,15-16; 17:14; 19:11,14;  2Cor.10:3-4,5; Rev.12:17).
SIDE POINT: [Jesus spoke of one kingdom, in many different parables (see Matt.13)(Matt.13:34-35; John 6:26-27,35). Jesus gave us Revelation (Rev.1:1). Just as with Jesus' any depictions of the one kingdom of God; we also see here in Revelation, many depictions of the same identities and events (Rev.10:11).]

"and gather them for battle
(Rev.12:7,17; 13:7; 11:7; 9:7,9; 16:14; 19:19; 17:14; 20:8 etc.)
"In number they are like the sand on the seashore.
These are not the sea (Isa.57:20), but rather... the sands of the land that are being tossed, pounded, and controlled BY the sea (Hosea 1:10; Luke 21:24; Rev.13:10,7). They are also not the stars of heaven, but are still earthly. Yet both sort, are Abraham's seed (Gen.22:17; Gal.3:26-27,28-29).

Satan is seen "standing" on the sands of the sea (Rev.13:1; Dan.11:45), just after John says that he goes off to wage war with the remaining ones of the woman's seed (Rev.12:17) after his release. 
       (There are no chapters or verses in original writings)
To stand over or take your seat over an identity, is a depiction of domination 
       (Eph.6:13; Acts 4:26; 7:55; Ps.110:1;  2Thess.2:4; Dan.11:36-37,16,31). 
Rev.13:1 informs us, that Satan is out of the abyss, and has gained advantage over the "sand", the unsealed of Abraham's seed of earth (Gen.22:16-17,18; 17:5; Isa.48:19). 
As a result of that domination through the false prophet and it's Gentile Beast (Rev.13:11,15), Abraham's seed is trampled (Rev.13:7,10). Those unsealed "kings of the earth", who throw their lot in with the Image of the Beast (Rev.17:12-13,14; 1:5; 5:9-10), are slave-marked by the Beast's deceptive laws (Rev.13:16; Deut.11:18). 
This brand mark of the beast puts those not sealed (Rev.7:3) into spiritual conflict with Christ and his faithful witnesses who testify to God's truths. The Beast which the ten kings support, kills the faithful (Rev.11:7; John 16:2; Mark 13:13; Rev.6:9-10,11; 12:10-11; Luke 12:51; Matt.10:34; Rev.2:16).
https://pearl-kingsofearth.blogspot.com
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2013/05/mark-of-beast.html
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/symbolic-death-by-means-of-world.html
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VERSE NINE Rev.20:9
"They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God’s people (Greek: "hagiOn" G40 "holy saints -  1Pet.2:9-10; Heb.8:10; Deut.11:18; Rev.14:1; 7:3), the City He loves"
I will pause here, to clarify a comparison between this verse, and WT doctrine.

According to the WT, the events of Rev.20:9 take place after the end of a paradisaic and literal thousand years, which begins after Armageddon. But they also teach, that all the holy faithful ones, are then in heaven. Can you see that the WT's interpretation is impossible and untrue? 
The Bible tells us clearly, that Satan's minions are marching on earth
How then, do they "surround" the "camp/tent" of God's people/saints, and the holy city heavenly Jerusalem (2Chron.6:6; Isa.62:1-2,3-4,5-6,7; Rev.21:2-3,10; Matt.5:35; Luke 21:20)..., when "God's people", are the Israel of God... the saints (1Pet.2:9-10; Rev.5:10;  1Cor.3:16) (Gal.6:16; 3:29; Rom.2:28-29)? 
God's people have His laws symbolically written on their heart (Jer.31:33). How would we recognize who these are? Deut.11:18 tells us, they these would have a symbolic mark on their forehead. 
Rev.14:1 tells us who that is.
We may have our own idea as to who the "144000" are... but the point is; JWs believe that "God's people" of Rev.20:9, are JWs. Yet JWs also do NOT believe, that all the rank and file JWs, are the anointed/the holy beloved city/the saints (Rev.21:9-10). That being the case, according to their own doctrine... JWs are not God's people, and are not the ones being surrounded by Gog and Magog. The remaining ones of God's anointed priesthood, are.
1Pet.2:9-10

The Bible speaks in many places, about this same situation of being surrounded 
(Luke 21:20,24; Rev.13:10; Luke 19:43).
The WT does not have the correct timetable for these prophetic events. 
The holy city/beloved city/holy ones/temple/holy place/saints, are surrounded and trampled, during the Great Tribulation. 
On the one hand, the WT teaches that Satan is let out a thousand years after Armageddon. On the other hand, Satan gathers Gog and Magog, leading into Armageddon. They want it both ways, but both scenarios of Rev.20:7-8, cannot be true.
https://4womaninthewilderness.blogspot.com/2016/01/who-become-gods-people.html

VERSE TEN Rev.20:10
"But fire came down from heaven and devoured them."
Eph.2:6; Jer.2:29; 5:14; Rev.11:5

Additional Pages for Study (coming soon)