Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Victory of Christ

QUESTION:
Good morning Pearl…I am reading all you post…but the 1000 year reign of Christ doesn’t fail does it?  1Cor.15:24 indicates that he is successful.  I am confused.  Thank you for any clarification you can give on this verse."

MY REPLY:
1Cor.15:24 tells us that at the END, Jesus will have success. 
It also tells us that at the END, all enemies will have been conquered. It also tells us that at that point (all enemies conquered and Jesus is successful) that Jesus gives over that accomplishment to the Father.

All that the verse teaches, is telling us about the final result in the end.
This verse does NOT tell us, everything that lead up to the end.
Jesus being successful, does not necessitate that he did not have any problems leading up to that success... 
nor does it tell us that all Christ's success occurs during the "thousand years".

Are you thinking that the full success of Jesus (as expressed at 1Cor. 15:24), is established previous to the end of his 1,000 year reign?
If so, it is clear that you could benefit from learning the actual timeline of events.
Although I hope to make a video in an attempt to make that timeline crystal clear, for now,
Please read Rev.20:7-8....
"7 Now when the thousand years have ended, Satan will be released from his prison 8 and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea."

Can you see there that Jesus kingdom of 1,000 years is said to be finished
and yet,
do you also see that ALL his enemies are not yet subdued beneath his feet?
Therefore, the full success of Jesus, in subduing all his enemies,
is not completed during his 1000 year reign.
You may notice in the verses that follow (1Cor. 15:25-26), "all enemies" but one are mentioned in verse 25. 
Verse 26 singles out the last enemy, Death. That last enemy is mentioned separately, because unlike the previous enemies; 
Death must be conquered after the 1000 year reign.

The Watchtower left us with a perverse timeline that is not scriptural.
Although it's doctrine agrees with the last enemy being conquered after the 1000 years; it teaches that the 1000 years take place, after Armageddon. That is not true, as is proven by scripture in many posts in this blog. The very battle referred to at Rev.20:7-8 cited above, IS Armageddon. As you can see from verse 7, it also occurs after the 1000 year kingdom of Christ.
The simplified, proper sequence of events, is:
*Christ enthroned in the first century, for a symbolic 1000 years
*Satan released/1000 years ends
*Great Tribulation/Death reigns over the remnant
*Armageddon/Death conquered by Christ and the remnant
*God's eternal Kingdom by Christ and his victorious heirs of 144000 and Great Crowd

First, Jesus is enthroned/becomes king, in the 1st century 
(Luke 22:69; Acts 2:33; Ps.110:1-2; *1Cor. 15:25* Rev.3:21).
During that symbolic 1,000 year kingdom, Jesus is progressively gathering into his storehouse during their lifetime... 
   Matt.28:20; Matt.24:34> Ps.112:2; Ps.14:5 NKJV
...all the anointed who prove faithful... his symbolic 144000 
(Luke 22:31; Matt.13:38; 3:12; Rev.14:14-16). 
The ruling scepter of Jesus is extended through the faithful conquerors of the world, Mount Zion 
(Rev.14:1; Psalm 110:2; Heb.12:22-23; Ps.110:1-2;  1Cor. 15:25). 
They rule with him during that thousand year kingdom, because with his help and spirit, they are conquering the enemies of Christ 
(Rev.20:6;  2Tim. 2:3;  2Cor. 10:3-5; Rev.17:14; Eph.6:11-12;  1John 5:4). 

Next,
As Rev.20:7-8 told us, the 1,000 year kingdom of Jesus ends when Satan is released from the abyss.
Satan's release causes 
*powerful, lying signs and portents/wonders (2Thess. 2:9-10,11-12;  1Tim. 4:1), 
*captivity to deception   and war... 
...the great tribulation leading into Armageddon.

That deception includes a misleading, trampling, mental captivity, torment, sifting, and seduction into idolatry of the anointed remnant who come through the time of the end...
(Col.2:8; Luke 21:24; Rev.13:10,7;  1Tim. 4:1; Rev.16:13-14; Matt.24:24-25,4-5)
...which captivity and trampling is imposed by the agents/army, of the dark powers of the abyss*, through whom the Great Tribulation is unleashed**.
This is when the "abomination of desolation"/"disgusting thing, standing in the holy place"/"standing where it does not belong"/"Jerusalem surrounded"....
         Luke 21:20; Rev.20:9,7-9; Rev.11:5,3-5; Jer.5:14 NIV 
.... arises

That abomination/idol, is the Anti-Christ/"man of lawlessness"... who has taken his throne over God's anointed Temple priesthood... trampling them into submission to his own idolatrous Image (Rev.13:15,7-8; 2:20).
(Matt.24:15-16; Luke 21:20-22; Rev.20:9; Mark 13:14;  2Thess. 2:3-4; Dan.7:21,25; Dan.8:11,12,13,14,17,24,25; Dan.11:31,32,33,36,37;  2Thess. 2:4).
When you read that last set of scriptures, ask yourself...
  Is Jesus still ruling over his anointed while they are being trampled and subject to Gentiles? 
  Is Jesus' scepter still being extended through the living members of Zion?
  Or, has his 1,000 year authority and power over his living anointed, come to an halt?
 
The 1000 years were successful, for their purpose... to gather in the 144000.
But after the 1000 years, there is more to do before all enemies are subdued. 
As 1Cor. 15:26 states, the last enemy Death yet needs to be conquered, and will be, during Armageddon. 
Those anointed who battle with Jesus in the time of the end, are not the original 144000 of the first resurrection. They are the Great Crowd who come through the Great Tribulation.
They are the symbolic "third" who repent of their idolatry.
No... those who battle with Christ at Armageddon against the last enemy Death, 
are those faithful anointed, alive at that time. They are the "great crowd" 
(Rev.7:13-14; 19:1; Eze.14:22-23).

Heb.4:12; Jer.23:29; Rev.19:11; 17:14;  2Cor. 10:3-5

Out of regard for how Watchtower indoctrination had damaged our belief in truth, it is imperative that we do as Jesus suggested...
get a new wine-skin to hold new wine (Mark 2:22). 
We should not take any teachings with us when we exit (Luke 17:30-32; 21:21-22; Jer.51:6 NIV   Rev.18:4) but rather, 
with a mind that is free of preconception, sample the provisions of the marriage feast (Matt.22:8-10; 24:16; Eze.36:8) Luke 17:37 NKJV . 
We can't hold on to old fallacies if we hope to have mental room for the truth. We must learn afresh, from the scriptures.
I do hope you keep reading... especially the posts that reveal the genuine timeline, according to scripture.
This has been an extremely brief summary of a corrected chronology. Many questions arise from this accurate explanation of this prophetic scenario. Many posts at the blog address the details. I hope the scriptures cited here are enough to set you on a new path of thinking, liberating you from the false chronology we were previously taught.

Sunday, November 7, 2021

When are the Enemies of Jesus, Subdued Beneath his Feet? [] Four Watchmen

Questions received:
1. Can you please add more understanding to 1 Corinthians 15:25?
There it says that Jesus reigns until all his enemies are subject to him. Yet you teach that his 'thousand year' kingdom has already ended. Yet we see that all his enemies are not yet made powerless, removed, and gone.
2. When are all Jesus' enemies conquered and made subject to him?
3. What caused Jesus' thousand year kingdom to end?
4. Why would anyone want to let Satan out of the Abyss? 
5. Who was responsible for that, and why?
Thanks. Obadiah.

My reply:
Well, we've got lots of ground to cover. :)
I'll respond to each of your questions, by number.
1.)
To begin, it may help to consider a detail of the verse that follows 1Cor.15:25, and that is, 1Cor.15:26.
You may note that all the initial enemies of Jesus, are lumped together in verse 25. But in verse 26, the conquering of "Death" is mentioned separately, and as occurring after the previous enemies.

That fact is consistent with the depiction of the enemies of Jesus, contained in the book of Revelation. 
At Rev.6:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8, we see the 4 living creatures. They are the 4 anointed watchmen of the night 
[Isa.21:6,8,9,10,11,12 (<Dan.8:13,14); Rev.2:28; Eze.3:16,17; 33:1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9; Isa.62:6; Rev.4:6-8; Isa.62:6; Mark 13:34 NIV ; Luke 21:36]. 
These watchmen are special prophets (Hosea 9:8; Matt.11:7,9,10; 17:10,12,13,11)
(Mal.4:5; Luke 1:17; Mal.3:1,2,3; Dan.8:14; Eze.14:4,5,21,22; Rev.6:7,8; Luke 19:41,42,43,44; 21:20,21,22,23,24; Matt.24:42,29; Joel 2:31; Amos 5:18; Rom.13:12; Rev.2:28,29).
Their assignment is to remain awake spiritually, and sound a warning when God's nation is threatened by an encroaching enemy.
My reason for explaining the 4 watchmen/living creatures, is that at Rev.6:7-8 we see there depicted, that last enemy, Death (1Cor.15:26) 
and we see that it arises in the time of the 4th and last Watchman.
The previous enemies (as stated at 1Cor.15:25) arise previous to the time of the 4th Watchman.
You may also note that in the time of Death's attack; there are simultaneously, all 4 plagues released against God's nation... Sword, famine, plague, and wild beasts (Rev.6:8). God allows the release of this curse, due to His nation's gross unfaithfulness, 
just as noted in Eze.14:21,5 cited above. 
That greatest time of trouble and adversity, is the Great Tribulation. It occurs during the era of the 4th watchman, when Death yet needs to be conquered.

Now to get back to a further opening of 1Cor.15:25;
we may assume that this verse is asserting that Jesus' reign must be continual, in order for all his enemies to be subdued. It is more accurately understood as saying, that in order for all enemies to be subjugated... he must be reigning. Is there a difference? 
Yes.
Please be patient while I use an illustration to portray this truth.
A carpenter is working on a project and is using electric power tools. That project consists of 4 major tasks. We may assume that in order for his job to be finished, he works non-stop with no interruptions. But now imagine that after he completes three of the tasks, he loses electric power due to an outage. During that outage, he cannot make progress, because his tools are not working. During that interim, he is not functioning as a carpenter.
When power is restored; he resumes his work through his power tools, and completes the last of the 4 tasks. He must be working, if he wishes to finish the entire project.
Similarly,
When 1Cor.15:25 states that Jesus must be reigning in order to subdue his enemies, that does not necessarily infer that there is no interruption in his reign, between his subduing his enemies previous to Death, and his subduing the last enemy, Death (1Cor.15:26).

I do hope that at this point, you can see that there is no contradiction between 1Cor.15:25 and this blog's teaching, which asserts that the symbolic thousand year reign of Christ, ends before the conquering of the last enemy Death.
For those of you readers who are not familiar with that timetable; I suggest reading this post 
plus the first few posts that can be found in the search result at this link:
If you do not find what you require, please contact me.

So to respond to your first two questions;
Jesus must be reigning over his living anointed slaves... 
       (through which he battles as they conquer the world as individuals -Ps.110:1,2; Rev.17:14; Eph.2:6; Rev.19:14;  2Cor.10:3-5)
...in order to make progress against his enemies. That corresponds to a carpenter needing his tools to be working, in order to finish his project.
Prophecy indicates that just as with an electric outage that disrupts the usefulness of a carpenter's tools and stops his progress;
Jesus' reign over his anointed temple priesthood, is interrupted 
(Dan.8:11,12; 7:25; 9:26,27; 11:31; Mark 13:14; Luke 21:20,24). 
Satan's victory over the anointed remnant (when he is released from the abyss), marks the end of Jesus' 'thousand year' reign over his living Body members (Rev.20:7)... interrupting the progress of subjugating his enemies, through them. That occurs during the Great Tribulation and trampling of the anointed remnant, by the Gentiles. 
It is also the period when the Gentile anti-Christ/man of lawlessness, is enthroned above God's Temple (2Thess.2:3-4; Mark 13:14) (1Cor.3:16; Eph.2:20,21,22;  1Pet. 2:5), which ends the daily sacrifices of that Temple priesthood, in their service to Christ. That is an interruption of Christ's reign over his living congregation, and ends his uninterrupted 1,000 year reign.
The last enemy Death is not conquered, until the remnant seed (also mentioned separately -Rev.12:17;  1Cor.15:23-24) of the woman covenant, conquers that last enemy to be unleashed by Satan. (Rev.20:7-8,10,14). The attack by the last enemy Death, is unleashed after Satan is liberated from the chains of the abyss. That last enemy Death is conquered, during Armageddon.

Here is an excerpt from the post: "WHY MUST SATAN BE RELEASED FROM THE ABYSS?"

"Upon Satan's release, he goes off to wage war with the remnant of the woman's seed (Rev.20:7,8; 12:17)
Satan's agents (Rev.16:13,14,15,16; 13:11;  2Thess.2:9,10,11,12;  1Tim.4:1) are successful against the saints 
[Rev.13:7; Dan.7:25; 11:36; (2Thess.2:4); Dan.8:12,13; Rev.11:2; Matt.5:13; 24:24,25]

Through an alliance with a fallen star/false prophet (Rev.8:10,11; 9:1,2,3; 13:11; 19:20)
Satan is released, and brings with himself a flood of his agents of deception, both spirit and human 
(Eph.2:2;  2Tim.3:13;  2Cor.4:4;  2Cor.11:13,14,15; Matt.24:24,25;  1Tim.4:1)... who successfully alienate the saints, from Christ... 
resulting in the remnant of the saints, being taken captive to deception and death 
(Hosea 4:6a; John 17:3; 6:63; Eph.2:12; 4:18; Col.2:19; John 15:16).
(Rev.12:15; Col.2:8; Rev.13:10; Dan.11:33; Luke 21:24,20; Rev.20:9a).

Satan employs the dark powers of his abyss/Hades, and through his alliance with "Wormwood", releases the agents of the Abyss, upon the remnant... resulting in the captivity and spiritual death of the remnant.

When the Chosen elect then alive, become enslaved to Satan... Is Jesus still their ruling king? 
Is Jesus still the Head over his Body and Temple? 
No. 
At the time that God's Temple is overcome and trampled by the Gentile "man of lawlessness" (2Thess.2:3,4; Dan.11:36,37,38,39)... the "abomination of desolation"... the "disgusting thing, standing where it does not belong" (Mark 13:14;  1Cor.3:16,17), Satan becomes ruler over the remnant. The "thousand year" kingdom of Jesus Christ over his living saints, ends. 
-  -  -  -  -  -  -

The period of time that we are presently in, encompasses the Great Tribulation and Armageddon. 
This is the period which the Bible refers to as Satan's "short period of time" (Mark 13:20; Rev.12:12; 20:3; Matt.24:22,32,33; Luke 21:28). 
Satan's victory over the anointed during the Great Tribulation, ends during Armageddon. The Great Tribulation and Armageddon are the interim between the end of the symbolic Thousand Year kingdom of Christ, and the start of God's eternal Kingdom. 

*  *  *  *  *  *  *
QUESTION 2. When are all Jesus' enemies conquered and made subject to him?

The messenger of the covenant mentioned above (the 4th living creature/4th watchman), turns the hearts of God's sons, back to God 
This causes the restoration and function of God's spiritual temple and priesthood, when their being trampled, ends 
(Mal.3:1,2,3; Dan.7:25; 8:11,12,13,14; Rev.11:2,3).
Just as electrical service resumes for the carpenter's tools; the servants of Christ and members of Zion are once again found faithfully exposing the falsehoods that took them captive and made them subject to Death (Ps.110:2;  2Cor.10:4,5; Eph.6:11,12; 5:11; Mal.2:7; Rev.5:10)
(Rev.3:1,11; James 1:12; Luke 12:39; John 10:10; Heb.2:14; Rev.13:2,7,10; Col.2:8 NIV ). 
Christ is then again, reigning over his anointed congregation, and finishing the conquering of his enemies, including Death. As 1Cor.15:24,25,26,27,28 explains, the last of Christ's enemies are subdued by the remaining members of Zion...
       (Rev.12:11; 3:9;  1John 5:4; Rev.2:26,27; 3:21; Dan.7:25,21,22,26,27; Rev.15:2), 
...after which, Jesus gives their accomplishment over to God. The eternal reign of all the faithful in the kingdom of God, then commences.


*  *  *  *  *  *  *
QUESTION 3. What caused Jesus' thousand year kingdom to end?

Rev.20:7 states plainly, the reason why Jesus loses his authority, power and control over his temple priests. Satan's release brings with it, a sweeping power of deceptive darkness, which overtakes the remnant of anointed 
(Rev.9:1,2,3; Joel 2:1,2; Isa.59:10; Rev.8:12; Isa.60:2;  1Tim.4:1; Rev.16:13,14,15,16;  
1Kings 22:21,22,23; 
  Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8 NIV ; Dan.8:12; Matt.24:5,24,25,22)
Satan's is then able to mislead the previously enlightened nations belonging to God (1Pet.2:9,10; Rev.20:3;  1John 5:19; Matt.16:18), 
during the Great Tribulation (Dan.8:11,12,24; Col.2:19; John 15:5,6).
 
QUESTION 4. Why would anyone want to let Satan out of the Abyss? 

The first thing to keep in mind is that Revelation is written in symbolism. Jesus has bound Satan in order to prevent his ability to mislead Christ's anointed priests 
(Mark 3:27; Rev.20:3; Luke 10:17,18,19;  1John 2:20). 

Neither the chains nor the abyss, are literal or physical.
If Satan is enabled to gain his power to deceive the anointed, that would be symbolically depicted as his release from that previous constraint.
To understand Why Satan is released, we must first understand How Satan is released.
In order for Satan to be able to mislead the saints, the saints must be apt to be guided and nurtured by an agent of Satanic and demonic deception. Such false prophets are a reality 
2Cor.11:3,4,5,12,13,14,15;  2Tim.3:13; Matt.24:24,25;  1Cor.10:21;  1Tim.4:1; Rev.2:20; 16:13,14; 19:20; 13:14,7,10; Col.2:8 NIV  

If a genuine steward appointed by Christ (Luke 12:42) becomes unfaithful, he will not be providing the proper food (fine fruit/the truth) at the proper time (when needed). Those eating from that leader's table, are not receiving the truth 
(Isa.28:7,8,15; 42:22; 49:24,25; Mark 3:27; Rev.20:2; Luke 10:19; Matt.16:18).
Why might such a steward, compromise to teach demonic lies, rather than the truths of Jesus?
Anointed ones have free will, and those still immature are not immune to being corrupted by worldly desire. 
They are warned to reject the enticements of Satan's world 
(Num.15:39;  1John 2:15-17; James 4:4; John 18:36).

Jesus said that the faithful would be required to walk the path he walked (1Pet.2:21;  1John2:6; Luke 22:28,29), 
   despite Satanic testing (Luke 22:31;  1Pet.5:8). 
The path of Jesus, started out with Satanic temptation (Luke 4:5,6; Matt.4:8,9,10). 
What did the Satanic test at Luke 4:5,6 consist of?
Satan offered Jesus worldly blessing and power, in exchange for subjection.
When the anointed follow in the footsteps of Jesus, they also are offered this enticement. 
The wicked steward, fails that test. 
He accepts the powers, riches, prominence, and authority offered by this world (Rev.18:3,7,11,12,13,14,15,16,17). But... they must also pay Satan's price. That one must become a servant of Satanic interests.... primary of which, is the enslavement of the saints who are under the guardianship of that wicked steward 
(Gal.4:1,2,3,8,9; Rom.6:16; Gal.1:10;  1Cor.7:23).

Even if such a pawn of Satan is unaware of his role in misleading God's elect; there will be times when that leader will knowingly compromise the truth, in favor of retaining his worldly position of prominence, authority, riches, and power (Mark 10:42,43,44,45;  1Pet.5:3;  2Cor.1:24). He will go so far as to "beat his fellow slaves" in order to prevent them from exposing the wicked slave's unfaithfulness (Luke 12:45; Isa.28:7,8).
We saw a clear example of this type of leadership, in the first century 
(John 11:47,48; 9:22; 8:13,23,37,40,43,47; Matt.23:2,4,5,6,7,25,28,30,31,32,34,35; Rev.18:24).

Such leaders turn away from God's protection and care, to garner the power of those outside God's spiritual nation (John 19:10,11,12,15; Jer.17:5). God considers this type of alliance, spiritual fornication (Eze.23:35; Isa.36:6) 

It is not as if the wicked steward is consciously aware that while teaching false doctrine to those in their charge, that they are releasing Satan's power to deceive. But when an anointed steward fails the test of worldly enticement and accepts the luxuries and power that only the world can afford them, there is a price to pay. Worldly position among false religious leaders, must be guarded and preserved in order to be retained. Misleading others always becomes necessary. By doing so, that compromising leader, unwittingly enters into a covenant with the Deceiver.
These precise events are depicted for us in prophecy, Bible history, and the book of Revelation...

Faithful anointed stewards/true prophets, are depicted as sources of light (John 5:35; Phil.2:15; Matt.5:15; Rev.1:20; Dan.12:3).
At Rev.8:10,11, we see one of them "fall" from that approved position (2Pet.3:17;  1Cor.10:12; Rev.2:5).
At Rev.9:1 we see what the king of the Abyss gives that fallen one, in exchange for that compromise Rev.9:11 NIV ; Isa.33:1 NIV 
It is a key, which represents the ability to open (or shut) a realm/authority/power (Isa.22:22).
The realm which the fallen star opens, is the abyss (Rev.9:2).
The deep, dark abyss represents Satan's power to deceive. 
Those who reside in that spiritual pit, are deceived and veiled from seeing God's light 
(2Cor.4:4; Isa.5:20; Luke 11:35;  1John 4:1;  2Cor.13:5; Matt.24:24,25). 

Every powerful lying sign and portent is made available to the fallen star/false prophet, Wormwood... along with her receiving the power of Satan's supportive beast, comprised of Gentiles (Rev.13:1,2,11,12,14,15; 16:13; 19:20; 17:3,15; 18:3,7,20,24; 19:2). In exchange, Wormwood opens the abyss, releasing Satan, which symbolizes his power to deceive the saints. That is symbolically depicted for us, as Satan's release from the abyss.

Hopefully you are able to perceive the answer to you question; "Why would anyone want to let Satan out of the abyss?". 
When a genuine anointed steward of Jesus Christ is willing to compromise truth in order to garner and maintain worldly power, that one unwittingly enters a covenant with Satan, and fails the temptation of Luke 4:5,6. It is not that they consciously want to release Satan's power to deceive those under their care. That is simply the consequence of their unfaithfulness.
*  *  *  *  *  *  *

QUESTION 5. Who was responsible for that, and why?
As explained, 
a genuine anointed steward who compromises the truth of Christ in order to preserve their worldly power, 
is responsible for unleashing the power of Satanic deception onto those who follow that prophet.
There is much more to learn about, when considering all the surrounding prophecies about these events and identities. I do hope you will make good use of the search box, and use the contact box for anything you have difficulty finding.
Love in Christ,
Pearl

Friday, November 5, 2021

The Royal Chronology of Jesus

This comment/question was left at the end of the post;
QUESTION:
Thank you ... what I struggle to put together chronologically is, Jesus is enthroned, Jesus wars with satan in heaven and satan is thrown to earth, satan is imprisoned in the abyss. I don't understand the times.

MY REPLY:
If we were taught by the Watchtower, it is harder to learn a new chronology. If we are willing to get a new wine skin for our faith (Mark 2:22), and let the Bible be our new wine (John 17:17), it will free our faith and we will perceive the truth (John 8:32).

Jesus was installed at God's right hand, after his death in the first century (Ephesians 1:20; Hebrews 10:12-13; Luke 22:69).

Although we were taught that this "waiting" period, was one of inertia; the Bible tells us what Jesus was doing (John 5:17; 14:2-3), while waiting for the accomplishment of his enemies subjugation (1Corinthians 15:25). < He was reigning. 
His mighty scepter was being extended, through his anointed king - priests... the members of Zion (Psalm 110:1-2; Revelation 14:1; 20:6; 19:11,16,14; 3:21; Eph.2:6; Rev.17:14). 
Sealed as faithful, they are raised up to a heavenly position that is spiritual, not physical (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 3:1). Jesus is awaiting the testing and sealing of all his faithful brothers, as they progressively conquer the enemies of Christ.


The royal power of Jesus and his faithful priests, was not of the world (John 18:36-37; 17:16). His royal power and glory, is spiritual (John 1:14), as is the power and authority of his kings (Luke 10:17-20; John 20:21-23). Jesus conquered the pitfalls and temptations of Satan and his world, during his lifetime (John 16:33; 14:30; Luke 4:5-8; 10:17-20; Rev.12:9). 
As Jesus said at John 18:37, those who love truth and imitate his example, heed the voice of their king. They follow his example by battling against the forces that resist, distort, and slander the truths of God 
(1Pet. 2:21; John 20:21; 13:20; Eph.5:11;  2Timothy 4:2; 2:3;  2Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 4:8; 6:10-12). 
The faithful join the army of Jesus from a heavenly position (Luke 10:20; Eph.4:1,7-8; 2:6; Rev.19:14,8; 17:14), and as the kings of Jesus, they battle with him during his kingdom (Rev.20:6). They need not die to do this work. 
They do it while they are alive, here on earth (2Tim. 4:2; Mal.2:7; Rev.5:10). Their heavenly position, is spiritual (Eph.2:6; Rom.8:9; Heb.12:23,22).
During the symbolic thousand year kingdom of Jesus and his symbolic 144,000; Jesus is the head of that congregation, his bride, his priesthood, his body members (Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18). 
The spiritual temple of God is in subjection to Jesus, and they serve only him and his Father (John 12:49; 5:19) 
(1Peter 2:5; Ephesians 2:20-22; Col.3:24; John 1:51 NKJV ; Gen.28:10,12-14; Rev.22:2-3).

 Rev.4:10-11

Satan is released from the abyss when the symbolic thousand year kingdom of Jesus, ends (Revelation 20:7-8). Those two events happen at the same time, because when Satan is released, he empowers a false prophet and beast with a lying disguise, powerful signs and portents, and the ability to mislead the anointed (Rev.20:7-8; 16:13-14;  1Tim. 4:1; Matt.24:24-25). The anointed who are alive at that time, are taken captive (Rev.13:7,10; Col.2:8 NIV ; Luke 21:24) and are no longer subject to Jesus (Rev.2:20; 17:1-2). 
Can Jesus reign over his living priests, if they are made subject to Satan? No (Col.2:19;  2Cor. 13:5; John 15:4-6). 
Those anointed kings of the earth (Rev.1:5-6; 5:10; 19:16) have surrendered their potential rule with Jesus, to serve the Beast (Rev.17:12-13). The thousand year kingdom of Jesus over his kings then ends, because he is no longer ruling over his anointed 
(Rev.11:2; Luke 21:24; Dan.8:10-12,17,19,24-25; 11:16,22,30-32,33-35,45). 
All this occurs after Satan's release, when Satan causes this great test, a great sifting, the Great Tribulation.

Some anointed wake up and repent in sackcloth (Rev.3:2 NIV ; Isa.52:1-2; Eph.5:14; Rev.2:28 NIV ). They realize the reality of their spiritual circumstances. They open the door to Jesus (Rev.3:20; 2:17), stand up to the powers that caused their spiritual death, subject themselves to Jesus, and battle with him against the demonic teachings. That is Armageddon (Rev.16:13-16; 17:14; 11:3-5).

The testimony of the final witnesses, causes the final fall to Satan (Rev.12:10-11; Dan.7:21-22,25-27; 11:33-35).
I say "final", because each anointed one must conquer Satan in their own lifetime, with the aid of God's spirit (Luke 10:17-18; Rom.16:20). When the last saints conquer Satan, Satan's reign is fully finished. His time for accusing and testing all the anointed (Luke 22:31;  1John 3:13;  2Tim. 3:12; John 16:20-22; Rev.12:1-2,5), is finished. The last enemy Death is then conquered, and the stage is set for the beginning of God's eternal Kingdom.

This has been a very concise reply. There are many topics contained that need to be explored more deeply, to accomplish a clear perception and solid faith. There are many posts written here that contain the scriptural references you need to have a full picture of these prophetic events and identities. I do hope that you continue to learn, and ask for help when you need it.

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Getting More, or Less

Question:
I don't know if I understand correctly so I ask why it is interesting. Luke 8:18 To those who have will be given, and to those who have not, they will be deprived of what he thinks he has. does it mean that those who have the light will be given other light and those who do not have the light will also be deprived of the light they think they have?

My Reply:
Jesus said that the true worshipers of God, would worship with spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). He also sent them to teach others by means of that spirit and truth 
(2Tim.4:2; 1Pet.2:9; Mal.2:7; Mark16:20; 1Cor.2:4; 1Pet.1:25). 
The assignment Jesus gave to his servants, was depicted in a variety of parables 
(Matt.5:13-16; 25:14; 13:52,41,44-45,47; 20:1; 22:2; 25:1; 24:31). 
Yes, one of those symbols for the spirit and truth we have, is light. Some other symbols, are living water, manna from heaven, wheat grain, and fine fruit.

One of the things that the disciples of Jesus possess, is his peace (John14:27). When they go out to do their preaching; that peace can be shared or kept, depending upon how they are received by their hearers (Matt.10:13).
What we learn from these scriptures, is that the possession of Luke 8:18 is multi-faceted, and yet it is all one thing.
Great peace comes from receiving, knowing, and teaching divine truth. It is received from Jesus, by spirit (John15:4-5; 16:13; 20:22; Acts 1:8).
Now to apply Luke 8:18...
To those who have spirit and truth, and put it to work in feeding Jesus' flock... Jesus will give more to that faithful worker (Matt.25:23; Luke 16:10; 19:17).
To those who do not put the treasures of spirit and truth to good use; They will lose what they were given, as well as the worthless things that captured their misplaced trust and esteem 
(Heb.10:38; Matt.25:24-26,27-30; Luke 11:34-36; Rev.3:17-18).


Jesus told his priests, to hold on to their testimony until he returns (Rev.2:25; 3:11; 12:17).
Those who do this, keep receiving more spirit and truth.
Those who do not make good use of the spirit and truth Jesus gives them, will lose that spirit and truth, as well as the reward for being faithful with them.

Luke 8:18 also adds the idea, that listening carefully to the scriptures, is needed by the person who desires to receive, spirit and truth (John8:47; 16:13).


Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Why was Satan put into the Abyss?

QUESTION:
Dear Pearl, I'm writing you about the parts I understand, and the part that I do not understand.
The thousand years began with the enthronement of Jesus, perfect.  
Satan was closed in the abyss for the thousand years, perfect (Rev.20:2).  
But in these thousand years, however, many Saints have been burned and persecuted as heretics, and the world has never stopped having tribulations.  
If Satan was locked up, who persecuted the Saints in the symbolic 1000 years?  
When would Satan supposedly be released from the abyss again to persecute the saints, and I imagine the nations, also?

MY REPLY:
Satan was not locked up in the abyss, to stop persecution, or to stop his reign over the world. 
Rev.20:3 tells us the reason why he is locked up.
It is so that he "cannot mislead the nations, any longer".
Yet we see that the nations in general, are still being mislead (1John 5:19;  2Cor. 4:4). 
When Rev.20:3 mentions "the nations" that Satan is being restrained from misleading, is it referring to all people on earth?
No.
It is referring to people OF all nations... an international group (Gen.17:5; Gal.3:28-29; Acts 10:34-35).

At Rev.5:9-10, we see that those anointed as royal priests, are also an international group. 
That priesthood, comprises God's spiritual temple (1Pet. 2:5,9-10;  1Cor. 3:16; Eph.2:20-22). 
The "living stones" of that Temple, are also the Body members of Jesus Christ (John 2:21;  1Cor. 12:27-28; Eph.2:20-21) 
and also, his Bride members 
(Eph.5:23,29-30,31-32;  1Cor. 6:17; John 17:22-23; Rev.21:9-10,2-3;  1Cor. 3:16).
Those who are anointed into these positions, previously belonged to Satan's world 
(Eph.2:1-3;  1Cor. 6:11; Eph.5:25-27;  1John 1:7,9). 
God's spirit found them (Ps.34:15) and gave them to Jesus (John1 7:6,9; Heb.2:10-12,13-15). Jesus taught them the knowledge from God (John 17:25-26; Luke 10:22) and assigned them to teach as he did 
(John 20:21-22; Acts 1:8; Matt.28:19-20;  2Cor. 5:20; Matt.5:14-16; Mal.2:7; John 13:20) 
(Luke 6:43-45; John 15:8,16; Matt.13:52).

Anointed priests of God, are given truth, and assigned to teach the truth (1John 2:20; John 8:32; 17:3;  2Tim. 4:2; Mal.2:7). 
Teaching the truths of God, requires them to be set free from the power of Satan, to deceive them. 
Like the world under Satan's power (Luke 4:5-6); the Elect were previously in spiritual darkness.
God's spirit, brought them out from Satan's power to deceive and mislead them, into the light of Truth 
(Isa.60:2;  2Cor. 4:4,6;  1Pet. 2:9; Luke 10:17-19;  2Cor. 2:11; John 14:17;  1John 5:19).
Do you think that Satan wants to let them go and give them freedom?
Do you think Satan wants their testimony of truth from Christ, to weaken the power of his misleading darkness?
(Eph.6:11-12,16; 5:11; Luke 10:17-19; Rev.12:10-12)
As you see at Rev.12:10, Satan is constantly making accusations against Christ's disciples. Satan does not want them to know the truths of God, or to be faithful in teaching truth to others. He and his lying doctrine, false signs and portents... are at spiritual war, with agents of divine Truth (Rev.16:13-14; 17:14;  2Cor. 10:3-5).
Jesus is the protector of his Bride members (John 17:12,14-15,11,26; Eph.5:23,29).
How does Jesus depict the rescue of his bride, saving them from Satan's power to mislead them?
How does Jesus take his bride members, away from Satan's dominion over them?
While Jesus was still on earth, he gave us a parable about Satan... and how the saints are rescued by Jesus...

Matt.12: "29 How can someone enter a strong man’s house and steal his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house."
Luke 11: "21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his estate, his possessions are secure. 22 But when one stronger than he attacks and overpowers him, he takes from him all his weapons he trusted in, and divides up his plunder."

The Bride members of Jesus, were previously Satan's possession. He does not want to let go of them.
Jesus became more powerful than Satan 
(John 14:30; 16:33; Matt.28:18; Eph.1:21-23;  1John 2:17;  1Cor. 15:24-25).
The "weapons" that Satan trusted in, are his dark deceptions and threats of persecution and death (John 8:44; Rev.12:11; Matt.10:28; Mark 8:35; John 16:2; Mark 13:13). 
Jesus is the light of the world (John 1:4-5; 8:12) and when he sets you free from darkness, you are free indeed (John 8:36). Jesus has taken from Satan, the weapons he trusted in (Eph.6:16;  2Cor. 4:4) by making deception, fear, and death, powerless 
(Heb.2:14-15; John 8:32,36; Luke 4:16-18,19-21).

In the parables above at Matt.12:29 and Luke 11:21-22
Jesus depicted how he rescues from Satanic deception.... Not the world (John 17:9) ...but his disciples.
Please compare that parable of Jesus (Matt.12:29), to your scripture in question... Rev.20:2.
So again, Satan is chained in the abyss by Jesus, to prevent him from being able to mislead his Bride and Temple kingdom priests.


As regards Satan's ability to persecute...
All anointed are persecuted (Matt.24:9;  2Tim. 3:12; Rom.8:17; Phil.3:10) and hated by Satan's world (John 15:18,20). 
While following the footsteps of Jesus (1Pet. 2:21; Matt.16:24-25; Luke 22:28)
the elect must prove their love for truth, by dying for it. (Rev.6:9-11; Mark 8:35; Rev.12:10-11; Rom.6:5). 
Through their tested faithfulness, they are able to receive their reward 
(1Pet. 4:13; Rom.8:17; Rev.2:7; 2:26; 3:5,21; 21:7; 6:11). 

Jesus never said that he would restrain Satan from persecuting the saints. He did warn about a contrary situation (Luke 22:31;  1Pet. 5:8-10).
Jesus restrained Satan, so that he could not mislead the bride members 
(Luke 11:19-20,21-22; Isa.49:24,25; 42:7,16; Col.1:13; John 12:36; Luke 4:18; 10:18-20;  2Cor. 2:11; John 1:5; Matt.5:16). 
The world is mislead and in darkness (Isa.60:2;  2Cor. 4:4; John 3:19), but the anointed are set free 
from Satanic and demonic control (1John 5:19; John 15:19). 
Jesus bound Satan's power, and restrained him from misleading  the anointed. 
(Matt.12:29; Rev.20:2-3).

All of this may become much clearer to you, if you realize that Rev.20:3 is not physical. 
It is a parable, used to describe spiritual power.
(Matt.13:10-11,34-35)
The abyss is not a physical place.
To understand both... Satan being chained in the abyss, AND
  Satan being released from the abyss to 
'surround' and mislead the remaining seed of the woman (Rev.20:7-9; Luke 21:20,24; Rev.12:17; 13:7,10; Col.2:8; Matt.24:24-25)...
...a consideration of this post to follow, is necessary:

These posts may also be helpful: 



Monday, November 1, 2021

The Death of Satan's Seed

A QUESTION:

"Surely Satan's seed cannot remain here upon earth alongside with those who inherit it. Ultimately, I suspect he will carry out a physical destruction of his own seed. So my question is: By what method will Satan destroy his own seed?"

MY REPLY:

Go with me please, back to Eden.

Gen.3: "3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’”

Just as Rom.5:12 states, death results from sin, and all are under sin and death, unless God and Christ, save them (John3:18).

Satan is the one who has the power and authority since Eden, to cause deception, sin, and death 
(Heb.2:14; Rev.9:11 NIV ; Isa.33:1)(2Cor.4:4; Luke4:5-6). 
All creation came under the curse of Satanic dominion (1John5:19; Gen.3:17-19)(Rom.8:20-21; Rev.22:3)
Jesus told us the way to escape death...
John5: "24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life."
So,
Does Satan's seed hear (comprehend) the words of Jesus, believe, and obey them? Have they crossed over from sin and death, over to life?
You ask, "By what method will Satan destroy his own seed?"
Look around you. Do you not see that death is already king among the children of Satan, and has been since Eden?
How long do people live?
"Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes." (James4:14)


"He remembered that they were but flesh, a wind that passes and comes not again." (Ps.78:39).
FLESH, passes away.

John3: "6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ "

If we wish to live, we must be born again of God's eternal spirit. If we are not, we die after a short time, correct?
So,
Why does Satan have to destroy his own seed, when they are already destroyed?
When the righteous sons of God inherit eternity, how long will it take, before all those not saved, are gone?
--
In addition, we see around us, Satan's attempts to destroy the planet and all life on it. The time is coming, when all will grasp the need for intervention that exceeds human ability, in order for physical life to be sustained.

Monday, October 4, 2021

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: 

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). 
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). 

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. 
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).

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)

Saturday, October 2, 2021

Who Inherit the Earth?

QUESTION
How can I explain "the meek will inherit the earth"  to my 'Jehovah's Witness' husband?

MY REPLY:
It all goes back to what God promised Abraham. God repeated that promise, to Abraham's grandson, Jacob. 
In fact, *the scriptures I'm going to give you, prove that the JW doctrine regarding who inherit the earth,  is false.*

At Gen.28: "10 Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Harran. 11 When he reached a certain place, he stopped for the night because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones there, he put it under his head and lay down to sleep. 12 He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and *the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.* 13 There above it stood the Lord, and he said: ‘I am the Lord, the God of your father Abraham and the God of Isaac. *I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying.* 14 Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and *they will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the southAll peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring."*

There we learn, that it is Abraham's seed who will inherit the earth (also Rom.4:13, etc.). 
But we learn more... 
The meaning of "angel", is "messenger". Verse 12 tells us, that those messengers will be traveling between heaven and earth, and in the very next verse, says that the earth will belong to Abraham's seed and they will spread out to possess the entire planet.
Why put the vision of the "angels", along with the promise of the people who are going to Inherit the Earth?
At John 1:51, Jesus told Nathaniel, 
"‘Very truly I tell you, you will see “heaven open, and *the angels of God ascending and descending in service to the Son of Man.’"*
Jesus repeated the words that God told Jacob, but added that the angels/messengers, would be serving Christ, AND, that Nathaniel himself, would see it. (2Cor.5:15; Rom.14:7-8; Col.3:24; Luke 9:51-52)

When we keep in mind that "angel" is the original word, but when translated, literally means "messenger"; we can certainly see how Nathaniel saw messengers, serving Jesus Christ. Jesus was telling Nathaniel, that the apostles and Jesus' Elect, would fulfill Gen.28:12. They are those who serve Christ, by being messengers of the gospel of light and life 
(Heb.1:6;  2Cor.4:1,5-6,7; Matt.28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Rev.6:9-11). 

Who inherits the earth?
Abraham's seed inherit the earth... those who are born again as spirit (1Pet.1:23; John 3:6,5; Rom.8:9,11; Gal.3:29; Eph.1:3; 2:6). 
In God's future kingdom, they will traverse between heaven and earth 
(Rev.21:2-3; Acts 7:48-49;  1Cor.3:16; Eze.37:27;  1Pet.2:5;  2Cor.6:16), 
so that the accomplishment described at Gen.28:14 will be implemented, which said; 
"All nations will be blessed through you and your offspring."
That quote at Gen.28:14 is a parallel to Rev.22: "1 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the trees of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. *And the leaves of the trees are for the healing of the nations."*

We see that the trees of life which bear fine fruit, will heal/bless, all the nations. 
Jesus compared his messengers, to trees... their teachings, to fruit (Luke 6:43-45; Matt.7:15-20).

Rev.21 reads; "2. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, *COMING DOWN OUT OF HEAVEN from God,* prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling-place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God."

When referring to those faithful servants of Christ, who become spirit-born sons of God; Gal.3 reads;
"26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 
29 *If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, AND HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE.*
Those who belong to Christ (his body members... his messengers who serve him), become spiritual seed of Abraham. 
They are the heirs of the promise made to Abraham (Rom.8:16-17).
They, inherit the earth. They bring with them from heaven, healing and blessing to all the Nations of humankind.
They are the citizens of the heavenly city that God is preparing (Heb.11:16; Rev.21:2; John 14:3), which will descend from heaven, to be with mankind (Rev.21:3; Heb.12:22-23; Rev.3:12; Luke 10:20; Heb.1:6).
The purpose? To heal them from the curse of sin, strife, futility, and death 
(Gen.3:17-19; Rom.8:18-19,20-21; Rev.22:3).
Those who accept the testimony of those whom Jesus sends forth 
(Mal.2:7; Rev.5:10; 22:16-17; John 13:20; 20:21; Matt.10:40-42), 
receive the same reward of life (Heb.10:36; Rev.2:10; James 1:12; Matt.10:40-42) and as children of the second Adam and his bride (1Cor.15:45,47; Rev.21:2-3,9-10; 22:17; Gal.4:26;  3John 1:4; Col.3:20; Eph.6:1-3; 5:23,25,27,29-30,31-32;  1Cor.6:17); they too, inherit the earth.

And so,
*** the doctrine of the WT that teaches that the anointed, never return to earth, is false.
*** The teaching that distinguishes an "exclusive heavenly hope" from an "earthly hope", is false (Gen.28:13; Gal.3:29). Those who attain an eternal reign with Jesus Christ (Dan.7:13-14,27,18; Rev.3:21;  2Tim.2:12), rightfully hope to heal the planet, display God's love and healing to all creation, and personally enjoy the restoration of God's purpose toward the physical realm. That is their inheritance of divine promise, which they will NOT be forever barred from enjoying!
*** The teaching that JW "elders" are the "princes in all the earth" when God's kingdom arrives, is false 
(Ps.45:1,16; Isa.32:1-2; Rev.19:16; 5:10;  1Pet.2:5;  1Cor.3:16; Rev.21:3,2).
----Regarding Ps.45:16>>> [In place of Christ's kingly forefathers (Luke 1:32; Isa.9:7; Matt.12:42), will come his spiritual sons 
(Heb.2:1-9,14,13,16; Isa.8:18; John 10:28,29; Heb.2:13; John 6:37-39; 17:2;  1Pet.1:5; Matt.18:3; 19:14; Matt.11:25; 13:11,16-17;  1Pet.2:9), 
with whom, he shares his kingdom 
(Ps.132:12; Rev.3:21; Ps.110:2; Rev.14:1; Jer.17:25; Eze.37:25; 34:24; Dan.7:13-14,18,22,27; Rev.5:10) 
(Heb.2:5,16; Rom.4:13; Gal.3:29; Gen.28:13-14; 13:14-15).
They become co-kings (2Tim.2:12; Rev.5:9,10; 20:6) and co-princes (Isa.10:8; 9:6; Acts 3:15; 5:31; Isa.32:1,2).
As heirs of the earth, these will heal creation (Rom.8:19; Rev.22:1,2; 21:2-5; Jer.17:7,8; Matt.7:20; Eze.36:8), and also provide a parenting example to others, which leads to life (1Cor.4:15-16,17; Phil.3:17; 4:9;  2Thess.3:9;  1Thess.1:6;  2Tim.3:14-15; Heb.13:7;  1Pet.5:3).]

*** The teaching that non-anointed 'JW's are those who inherit the earth, is false. 
The "righteous" are those who have been justified by the blood of Christ. 
(Heb.2:5,11,16; Rev.19:7-8; Heb.12:23; Ps.37:29; Rom.5:1,5; Rom.8:30). 
It is also false, that 'JW's are the Great Crowd.

If you'd like more information about this topic, and more scriptures to prove it, here are two links:

Additional Pages for Study (coming soon)