We are now in "The Most Holy Place-Inner Sanctuary" of chapter 11, verse 15 of Revelation. The little book of the revelation of Christ in humanity. The most profound and bewildering of all GOD'S secrets (Duet. 29:29). But as told to His disciples we are to know the mystery (secrets) of GOD, after we have passed through Galatians 2:20's restoring of our original identity of innocence. Our co-crucifixion in the beloved as His own flesh, our humanity testifies for or against us.
The Most Holy Place the Inner Sanctuary of GOD:
Here is the context:
Hebrews 9:15-22, 23-28 As fully representing humanity, Jesus's death brought an end to the old, and introduced the New Testament. He thus redeemed us from the transgressions recorded under the first Covenant and identified us as heirs; Qualifying us to participate in the full inheritance of all that He obtained on our behalf. (The concept of a mediator, (G3316) mesites, in this analogy, is not a go-between, as if Jesus had to change the Father's mind about us; It was our minds that needed to be persuaded! Jesus did not save us from GOD; He is fully GOD and fully man, and in Him humanity is most completely represented. For we are in a seamless union, as being One with. See Galatians 3:20 with Hebrews 6:16-20.) For a will to take effect the person who made it must be dead. Before the testator dies the will is merely a future promise with no immediate benefit to anyone. Even the first Covenant required a death for its actualization; The blood of the animal sacrifice represented that death. After Moses uttered the details requirements of the Law in the hearing of all the people, he would take the blood of calves and of goats, mixed it with water and, dipping a bunch of hyssop bound with scarlet wool into the blood-basin, sprinkled the blood on the book and upon the people. While performing this cleansing ritual, Moses would solemnly declare, "This is the blood of the covenant which GOD has made binding upon you." The same blood was then sprinkled on the tabernacle, and on all the furniture and ministry utensils. Thus, according to the Law, all purging was by means of blood; Forgiveness was specifically associated with the shedding of blood. (The idea of closure to the particular case was communicated in the death of an innocent victim. The blood symbolized this currency. The word translated forgiveness, or remission is the word aphiemi, is from apo, away from, and hieimi an intensive form of eimi, I am; Thus forgiveness is in essence a restoring to our true 'I-am-ness.' As seen in Genesis 2. The injury, insult, shame, hostility or guilt would no longer define the individual.)
If the methods of the Law were only a shadow prefiguring the heavenly reality, the fulfillment of these examples surely requires a stronger and more efficacious sacrifice. In Christ we have so much more than a type reflected in the tabernacle of holy places set up by human hands. He entered into the heavenly sphere itself, where he personally represents humanity face to face with GOD. Neither was it necessary for Him to ever repeat His sacrifice. The High Priests under the old shadow system stood proxy with substitute animal sacrifices that had to be offered every year. But Jesus did not have to suffer again and again since the [1] fall of the world; The [2] single sacrifice of Himself in the fulfillment of history now reveals how he has brought sin to naught. (The word, [1, G2602 is from G2598 kataballō, to cast down] katabole, means cast down. [2] GOD'S Lamb took away the sins of the world!) The same goes for everyone: a person dies only once, and then faces judgment. Christ died once and faced the judgment of the entire human race! His second appearance [in His resurrection] has nothing to do with sin, but to reveal salvation for all to [1] fully embrace Him. (To fully embrace, [1] apekdechomai, is from apo, away from [that which defined me before] and ek, out of, source; And dechomai, to take into ones hands to accept whole-heartedly, to fully embrace. In His resurrection He appeared as savior of the world! (Mat. 27:51-54) Sin is no longer on the agenda, for the Lamb of GOD has taken away the sins of the world! Jesus Christ fulfilled humanity's destiny with death! [1Cor. 15:3-5, Rom. 4:25, Acts 17:30-31.]) (The Mirror, with editing.)
This ends the notes of Rev. 11. With our next visit the LORD willing we shall pickup chapter 12 and the appearance of a woman. Until then may the LORD increase our understand of Him.
Sunday, February 16, 2020
Saturday, February 15, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, between the chapters, of chapter 11-5, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
Continuing with "The Most Holy Place - Inner Sanctuary," of Revelation 11.
Here is the context:
Hebrews 9:3-5, 6-10, 11-14, 15-22, 23-28 "The second veil led to the inner tent known as the Most Holy Place. Therein were the golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant. The box was completely covered in gold, both inside and out. In it were kept the golden jar with a sample of the miracle manna from the wilderness, as well as the budding staff of Aaron, [Moses' staff - but here referred to as Aaron's - when they first met with Pharaoh Aaron's staff turned into a snake - the symbol of Pharaoh's rule, and swallowed the snake staffs of the Egyptian magicians] as also the two engraved tablets of stone with the ten commandments of the Covenant. (A golden "fire-pan" was for the purpose of carrying fire, in order to burn incense on the day of Atonement once a year in the ultimate place of worship. The word, kibotos, means the wooden box, is the same word used for Noah's ark; The container of humanity's redemption. Gen. 6:14, The manna prophetically pictured the true bread from heaven, not the bread that humanity's labor produces. John 4:35, 38.) Hovering above and over the ark of the Covenant were the two cherubim, images of glory, intent upon the mercy seat that covered the box on which the blood was sprinkled once a year by the High Priest to cover the sins of the people. every detail is significant but cannot be discussed at length in this writing. (The Hebrew word, kopher, means to cover (specifically with bitumen), figuratively to cover by legal and equal exchange in order to restore a previous disturbed balance. The rule was an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life, etc.
The ark represented a place of mercy where atonement would be made. Innocence had to be achieved at a cost equal to the replacement value of the peace sought between the different parties. See Genesis 6:14, where the same word denotes the covering of Noah's ark with pitch. The Cross cannot be taken out of the equation of atonement. The first animal sacrificed was when GOD used an animal's skin to cover Adam and Eve's nakedness. It had nothing to do with "sin" but their nakedness which caused them embarrassment.)
In the context of this arrangement the priests performed their daily duties, both morning and evening. (The daily included their dress and preparations, baptisms, sacrificial offerings, lighting and trimming, removing the old Showbread and replacing it with fresh bread, and sprinkling the blood of the sin offerings before the veil of the sanctuary.) The routine was interrupted only once a year, when the High Priest alone would enter the second tent, the most sacred place of worship, with the blood sacrifice for his own and the people's accumulated errors. Already in this arrangement the Holy Spirit indicated that there was yet a more sacred way, beyond the first tent, that was still to be opened. While the first pattern was still being upheld, its fulfillment in truth could not yet commence. The tabernacle pattern of that time was an analogy of the hitherto imperfect system in which the gifts and sacrifices presented failed completely to cleanse the consciousnesses of the worshipers. All these external rituals pertaining to food and drink and the various ceremonial baptisms and rules for bodily conduct were imposed upon them until the anticipated time of restoration; The foretold moment when [1] all that was crooked would be made straight and restored to its natural and original condition. (The word, [1, G1357] diothosis, is only used in this one place in the NT; What was crooked will be made thoroughly straight, restoring to its natural and normal condition something which in some way protrudes or has gotten out of line, as broken or misshapen limbs. It was John the baptist, who was the voice in the wilderness, who was called the leveler of the mountains and raiser of the valleys, the maker of the crooked straight, for the presence of the LORD, in Isaiah 40:3-5. For it was he who called all of Israel to repent of their backward hardheartedness and unbelief!)
But now Christ has made His public appearance as High Priest of a perfect tabernacle. The good things that were predicted have arrived. This new tabernacle does not derive from its shadow type, the previous man-made one. It is the reality. (The restoration of GOD'S original dwelling place in human life is again revealed!) As High Priest, His permission to enter the Holy Place was not secured by the blood of beasts. By His own blood He obtained access on behalf of the human race. Only one act was needed for Him to enter the most sacred place of grace and there to institute a ransom of perpetual consequence. (The perfection of the redemption he secured needs no further sacrifice. There are no outstanding debts; There is nothing we need do to add weight to what he has accomplished once and for all. The only possible priesthood activity we can now engage in is to continually bring a sacrifice of the fruit our lips, giving thanks to His name; No blood, just fruit, even our acts of self-sacrifice, giving of time and money, etc. are all just the fruit of our constant gratitude!) The blood of beasts and the ashes of the burnt sacrifice of a heifer could only achieve a very temporal and surface cleansing by being sprinkled on the guilty. (The word for heifer, is damalis, is from damatzo, to tame; this was the most dear and expensive sacrifice. She was a strong, pristine, spotless female calf, she was raised as a family pet; "A Little Princess!" This was the best that the law-system could present; Yet, no inner purging of conscience was possible; Only the sense of temporal relief; While knowing that the entire process would have to be repeated again and again! In this arrangement, GOD addressed the dilemma of our sin consciousness; The deep-seated stain that it had left needed to be thoroughly exposed, and then brought to closure. The shadow system with its imperfections, as a possible means of obtaining a lasting and meaningful sense of innocence, had to be exhausted; Ultimately proving that no sacrifice that anyone can bring at any expense of their own, could possibly match the sacrifice of GOD giving Himself as scapegoat to the human race in order to persuade us that His Agape love for us would go to the scandalous extreme, where we are finally confronted with the fact that it is not in a sacrifice that we bring where GOD'S mind is favorably influenced towards us; But in the shocking sacrifice of Himself, where He forever, in the most radical language, impacts our ideas and thoughts about the Father, Son and Spirit's estimate of us. There is nothing dearer in the universe to Them, but our redeemed innocence and our individual value realized! See Colossians 2:14-15 in the Mirror Study Bible) How much more effective was the blood of Christ, when He presented His own flawless life through the eternal Spirit before GOD, in order to purge our conscience from its frustration under the cul-de-sac rituals of the Law. There is no comparison between a guilt and duty-driven, dead religious system, and the vibrancy of living our lives free from a sin-consciousness! This is what the new testament priesthood is all about! (Dead works, nekros ergon. as dead, religious-routine system can never compete with the resurrected Christ now realized in you.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
Until our next visit may the LORD increase His knowledge within you and yours. We shall the LORD willing pick this back up there at verse 15 of Hebrews 9 with our next post.
Here is the context:
Hebrews 9:3-5, 6-10, 11-14, 15-22, 23-28 "The second veil led to the inner tent known as the Most Holy Place. Therein were the golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant. The box was completely covered in gold, both inside and out. In it were kept the golden jar with a sample of the miracle manna from the wilderness, as well as the budding staff of Aaron, [Moses' staff - but here referred to as Aaron's - when they first met with Pharaoh Aaron's staff turned into a snake - the symbol of Pharaoh's rule, and swallowed the snake staffs of the Egyptian magicians] as also the two engraved tablets of stone with the ten commandments of the Covenant. (A golden "fire-pan" was for the purpose of carrying fire, in order to burn incense on the day of Atonement once a year in the ultimate place of worship. The word, kibotos, means the wooden box, is the same word used for Noah's ark; The container of humanity's redemption. Gen. 6:14, The manna prophetically pictured the true bread from heaven, not the bread that humanity's labor produces. John 4:35, 38.) Hovering above and over the ark of the Covenant were the two cherubim, images of glory, intent upon the mercy seat that covered the box on which the blood was sprinkled once a year by the High Priest to cover the sins of the people. every detail is significant but cannot be discussed at length in this writing. (The Hebrew word, kopher, means to cover (specifically with bitumen), figuratively to cover by legal and equal exchange in order to restore a previous disturbed balance. The rule was an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life, etc.
The ark represented a place of mercy where atonement would be made. Innocence had to be achieved at a cost equal to the replacement value of the peace sought between the different parties. See Genesis 6:14, where the same word denotes the covering of Noah's ark with pitch. The Cross cannot be taken out of the equation of atonement. The first animal sacrificed was when GOD used an animal's skin to cover Adam and Eve's nakedness. It had nothing to do with "sin" but their nakedness which caused them embarrassment.)
In the context of this arrangement the priests performed their daily duties, both morning and evening. (The daily included their dress and preparations, baptisms, sacrificial offerings, lighting and trimming, removing the old Showbread and replacing it with fresh bread, and sprinkling the blood of the sin offerings before the veil of the sanctuary.) The routine was interrupted only once a year, when the High Priest alone would enter the second tent, the most sacred place of worship, with the blood sacrifice for his own and the people's accumulated errors. Already in this arrangement the Holy Spirit indicated that there was yet a more sacred way, beyond the first tent, that was still to be opened. While the first pattern was still being upheld, its fulfillment in truth could not yet commence. The tabernacle pattern of that time was an analogy of the hitherto imperfect system in which the gifts and sacrifices presented failed completely to cleanse the consciousnesses of the worshipers. All these external rituals pertaining to food and drink and the various ceremonial baptisms and rules for bodily conduct were imposed upon them until the anticipated time of restoration; The foretold moment when [1] all that was crooked would be made straight and restored to its natural and original condition. (The word, [1, G1357] diothosis, is only used in this one place in the NT; What was crooked will be made thoroughly straight, restoring to its natural and normal condition something which in some way protrudes or has gotten out of line, as broken or misshapen limbs. It was John the baptist, who was the voice in the wilderness, who was called the leveler of the mountains and raiser of the valleys, the maker of the crooked straight, for the presence of the LORD, in Isaiah 40:3-5. For it was he who called all of Israel to repent of their backward hardheartedness and unbelief!)
But now Christ has made His public appearance as High Priest of a perfect tabernacle. The good things that were predicted have arrived. This new tabernacle does not derive from its shadow type, the previous man-made one. It is the reality. (The restoration of GOD'S original dwelling place in human life is again revealed!) As High Priest, His permission to enter the Holy Place was not secured by the blood of beasts. By His own blood He obtained access on behalf of the human race. Only one act was needed for Him to enter the most sacred place of grace and there to institute a ransom of perpetual consequence. (The perfection of the redemption he secured needs no further sacrifice. There are no outstanding debts; There is nothing we need do to add weight to what he has accomplished once and for all. The only possible priesthood activity we can now engage in is to continually bring a sacrifice of the fruit our lips, giving thanks to His name; No blood, just fruit, even our acts of self-sacrifice, giving of time and money, etc. are all just the fruit of our constant gratitude!) The blood of beasts and the ashes of the burnt sacrifice of a heifer could only achieve a very temporal and surface cleansing by being sprinkled on the guilty. (The word for heifer, is damalis, is from damatzo, to tame; this was the most dear and expensive sacrifice. She was a strong, pristine, spotless female calf, she was raised as a family pet; "A Little Princess!" This was the best that the law-system could present; Yet, no inner purging of conscience was possible; Only the sense of temporal relief; While knowing that the entire process would have to be repeated again and again! In this arrangement, GOD addressed the dilemma of our sin consciousness; The deep-seated stain that it had left needed to be thoroughly exposed, and then brought to closure. The shadow system with its imperfections, as a possible means of obtaining a lasting and meaningful sense of innocence, had to be exhausted; Ultimately proving that no sacrifice that anyone can bring at any expense of their own, could possibly match the sacrifice of GOD giving Himself as scapegoat to the human race in order to persuade us that His Agape love for us would go to the scandalous extreme, where we are finally confronted with the fact that it is not in a sacrifice that we bring where GOD'S mind is favorably influenced towards us; But in the shocking sacrifice of Himself, where He forever, in the most radical language, impacts our ideas and thoughts about the Father, Son and Spirit's estimate of us. There is nothing dearer in the universe to Them, but our redeemed innocence and our individual value realized! See Colossians 2:14-15 in the Mirror Study Bible) How much more effective was the blood of Christ, when He presented His own flawless life through the eternal Spirit before GOD, in order to purge our conscience from its frustration under the cul-de-sac rituals of the Law. There is no comparison between a guilt and duty-driven, dead religious system, and the vibrancy of living our lives free from a sin-consciousness! This is what the new testament priesthood is all about! (Dead works, nekros ergon. as dead, religious-routine system can never compete with the resurrected Christ now realized in you.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
Until our next visit may the LORD increase His knowledge within you and yours. We shall the LORD willing pick this back up there at verse 15 of Hebrews 9 with our next post.
Friday, February 14, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, between the chapter, of chapter 11-4, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are now about to look into The Most Holy Place the Inner Sanctuary of GOD, that is the middle of our own being. Let us find out what our author has to say, shall we.
The Most Holy Place the Inner Sanctuary of GOD:
Revelation 11:1, 18-19, 15:4-5 I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the [1] inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar [of incense] as well as those who worshiped in there. (He first introduces the Jewish believers to the new order! The royal scepter as measure speaks of the Melchizedek-anointing upon the worshiper as the inner sanctuary of GOD. A temple, not made with hands. The mystery of the ages is Christ in you. The word, [1, G3485 from a primary word ναίω naiō (to dwell)] naos, inner sanctuary; the most holy place - see there the table and the daily bread, the golden lampstand, the golden altar of incense, redeemed union - we are measured in the Messiah. The order of Melchizedek, the reign of righteousness by faith, replaces the old Levitical order of righteousness by performance. The royal scepter of the Melchizedek-order is the measure of the new Covenant.
The root of the word Messiah also means to measure! Aramaic (H4886) misah, stems from Messiah (מָשַׁח) to anoint; to measure.) The culmination of humanity's wrath collided with our passion oh GOD - this is the critical moment where judgment is met in death! ("Jesus said, 'When I am lifted up on the cross, I will draw (G138, to lift up) all (judgment of) men unto me!'" In John 12:32) And the innermost sanctuary of GOD'S heavenly temple was laid bare where the ark of the covenant was fully unveiled to be gazed upon with insight - and there were lightnings and thunderous voices and an earthquake and great hailstones!......Who will not be awestruck by you oh LORD as they recognize their identity in Your glorious name? All Your work confirms the truth of who You are. You have no competition! Therefore all the Nations will arrive at the same conclusion and they will worship You since Your righteousness has been openly shown! (Sing unto the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand and His holy arm have gotten Him the victory! The LORD has made known His salvation, His righteousness, as He has openly shown and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our GOD! Ps. 98:1) And coinciding with this, I saw the inner shrine of the skin-tabernacle of testimony, with the veil open in the heavenly dimension. (The prophetic skin-tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting is now redeemed in the Incarnation - the human body hosts this place of intimate encounter. See Exodus 33:7, the tent of meeting מוֹעֵד, the moyed which is the Niphal [reflexive] of יָעַד - od, with Ayin [o] as a picture of the eye, the d is a picture of the door. Combined these mean "see the door." As coming to a tent a tent of meeting and entering in. A place, time or event that is repeated again and again - in the reflexive form. In the Septuagint the Greek word marturion is used - that which gives evidence - testimony. So the tent of meeting is the tent of testimony! Rev. 11:19) (The Mirror, with editing.)
In our next visit the LORD willing we shall pick this back up at "here is the context:" Now until then may the LORD of all reveal more of Himself within both you and yours.
The Most Holy Place the Inner Sanctuary of GOD:
Revelation 11:1, 18-19, 15:4-5 I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the [1] inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar [of incense] as well as those who worshiped in there. (He first introduces the Jewish believers to the new order! The royal scepter as measure speaks of the Melchizedek-anointing upon the worshiper as the inner sanctuary of GOD. A temple, not made with hands. The mystery of the ages is Christ in you. The word, [1, G3485 from a primary word ναίω naiō (to dwell)] naos, inner sanctuary; the most holy place - see there the table and the daily bread, the golden lampstand, the golden altar of incense, redeemed union - we are measured in the Messiah. The order of Melchizedek, the reign of righteousness by faith, replaces the old Levitical order of righteousness by performance. The royal scepter of the Melchizedek-order is the measure of the new Covenant.
The root of the word Messiah also means to measure! Aramaic (H4886) misah, stems from Messiah (מָשַׁח) to anoint; to measure.) The culmination of humanity's wrath collided with our passion oh GOD - this is the critical moment where judgment is met in death! ("Jesus said, 'When I am lifted up on the cross, I will draw (G138, to lift up) all (judgment of) men unto me!'" In John 12:32) And the innermost sanctuary of GOD'S heavenly temple was laid bare where the ark of the covenant was fully unveiled to be gazed upon with insight - and there were lightnings and thunderous voices and an earthquake and great hailstones!......Who will not be awestruck by you oh LORD as they recognize their identity in Your glorious name? All Your work confirms the truth of who You are. You have no competition! Therefore all the Nations will arrive at the same conclusion and they will worship You since Your righteousness has been openly shown! (Sing unto the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand and His holy arm have gotten Him the victory! The LORD has made known His salvation, His righteousness, as He has openly shown and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our GOD! Ps. 98:1) And coinciding with this, I saw the inner shrine of the skin-tabernacle of testimony, with the veil open in the heavenly dimension. (The prophetic skin-tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting is now redeemed in the Incarnation - the human body hosts this place of intimate encounter. See Exodus 33:7, the tent of meeting מוֹעֵד, the moyed which is the Niphal [reflexive] of יָעַד - od, with Ayin [o] as a picture of the eye, the d is a picture of the door. Combined these mean "see the door." As coming to a tent a tent of meeting and entering in. A place, time or event that is repeated again and again - in the reflexive form. In the Septuagint the Greek word marturion is used - that which gives evidence - testimony. So the tent of meeting is the tent of testimony! Rev. 11:19) (The Mirror, with editing.)
In our next visit the LORD willing we shall pick this back up at "here is the context:" Now until then may the LORD of all reveal more of Himself within both you and yours.
Thursday, February 13, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, between the chapters, of chapter 11-3, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are now looking at "the Two Witnesses Dressed in Sackcloth." Lets see what is said and revealed here shall we?
The two Witnesses Dressed in Sackcloth:"
Revelation 11:3-4 I will appoint my two witnesses, dressed in sackcloth, to make known my thoughts for one thousand, two hundred and sixty days! (Moses and Elijah - spirit of prophecy - Luke 24:26-27, Moses and all the Prophets - Matt. 17 on the mountain - Moses and Elijah speaking about His death - the 2 olive trees and 2 candle sticks Zechariah 4 - what do you see? Golden candlesticks and 2 olive trees - the word unto Zarubabel (the governor) - not by might - and Joshua the priest. King/Priest ministry.
For the two witnesses see also Hebrews 6:13-20. Deut. 19:15, "At the mouth of two witnesses, shall the matter be established.") There are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the LORD of the earth. (Rom. 11:17, 24. In Zechariah 4:2, 4:3, 14, see the prophetic significance of the golden lampstand - the budding almond blossom - Jer. 1:12.)
John 8:15-18 "'You form your own judgment according to the flesh; I judge no-one. And even if I do make a judgment, it is true since I am not making it up in My imagination or on My own record reflects the testimony of the Father who sent Me. That should settle it for you since it is written in your law that the testimony of two, is true! (This combined witness of two is not true just because they agree, unless true in fact separately. But if they disagree, the testimony falls to the ground. Deuteronomy 17:6, and 19:15.) I am witness to who I am and My Father Himself also bears witness to Me.'"
Dressed in Sackcloth speak of - the prophetic word in the law and prophets points to Jesus who took our mourning upon Himself on the cross and in our hellish darkness. And having loosed our bonds he raised us in His triumphant joy!
Isaiah 58:5-12; Psalm 30:11, "Is such the fast that I choose, a day for a man to humble himself? Is it to bow down his head like a rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and a day acceptable to the LORD? Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; Your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, 'Here am I.' If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger and speaking wickedness, if your pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the moonday. And the LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; And you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. and your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; You shall raise up the foundations of many generations; You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.".....'Thou hast turned for Me My mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed My sackcloth and girded Me with gladness!'"
(The Mirror, with editing.)
Now may the LORD increase our understanding of Him with this.
The two Witnesses Dressed in Sackcloth:"
Revelation 11:3-4 I will appoint my two witnesses, dressed in sackcloth, to make known my thoughts for one thousand, two hundred and sixty days! (Moses and Elijah - spirit of prophecy - Luke 24:26-27, Moses and all the Prophets - Matt. 17 on the mountain - Moses and Elijah speaking about His death - the 2 olive trees and 2 candle sticks Zechariah 4 - what do you see? Golden candlesticks and 2 olive trees - the word unto Zarubabel (the governor) - not by might - and Joshua the priest. King/Priest ministry.
For the two witnesses see also Hebrews 6:13-20. Deut. 19:15, "At the mouth of two witnesses, shall the matter be established.") There are the two olive trees and the two lampstands which stand before the LORD of the earth. (Rom. 11:17, 24. In Zechariah 4:2, 4:3, 14, see the prophetic significance of the golden lampstand - the budding almond blossom - Jer. 1:12.)
John 8:15-18 "'You form your own judgment according to the flesh; I judge no-one. And even if I do make a judgment, it is true since I am not making it up in My imagination or on My own record reflects the testimony of the Father who sent Me. That should settle it for you since it is written in your law that the testimony of two, is true! (This combined witness of two is not true just because they agree, unless true in fact separately. But if they disagree, the testimony falls to the ground. Deuteronomy 17:6, and 19:15.) I am witness to who I am and My Father Himself also bears witness to Me.'"
Dressed in Sackcloth speak of - the prophetic word in the law and prophets points to Jesus who took our mourning upon Himself on the cross and in our hellish darkness. And having loosed our bonds he raised us in His triumphant joy!
Isaiah 58:5-12; Psalm 30:11, "Is such the fast that I choose, a day for a man to humble himself? Is it to bow down his head like a rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and a day acceptable to the LORD? Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; Your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, 'Here am I.' If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger and speaking wickedness, if your pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the moonday. And the LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; And you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. and your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; You shall raise up the foundations of many generations; You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.".....'Thou hast turned for Me My mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed My sackcloth and girded Me with gladness!'"
(The Mirror, with editing.)
Now may the LORD increase our understanding of Him with this.
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, between the chapters, of chapter 11-2, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are taking a deep look into "The Measure of the Temple." Keeping in mind that the Saints make up the Living Temple of GOD'S earthly presence, for He both dwells among us but also within us as His Christ ones.
Continuing with The Measure of the Temple:
Our base scripture is Revelation 11:1-2 which when read with a renewed mind reads as: I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar as well as those who worshiped in there. This measuring shall not include the outer court since it was given to the multitudes who would be treading around the outskirts of the holy city for forty-two months.
Colossians 1:26-27 Humanity's most sought after quest, the mystery which has remained elusive and concealed for ages and generations, is now fully realized in our redeemed innocence. Within us, GOD is delighted to exhibit the priceless treasure of this glorious unveiling of Christ's indwelling in order that every person on the planet, whoever they are, may now come to the greatest discovery of all time and recognize Christ in them as in a mirror! He is the [1] desire of the nations and completes their every expectation! (He is not hiding in history, or in outer space nor in the future, neither in the pages of Scripture, he is merely mirrored there to be unveiled within you. Mat. 13:44, Gal. 1:15, 16, 2Cor. 3:18, 4:4, 7. This is huge! What GOD was able to disclose in the Saints is immediately equally relevant in the nations! Christ in the nations is the hope of glory! This is the mystery of the ages! This is what we were waiting for [1, Haggai 2:6-7])
John 2:17-18, 19, 21-22 This incident reminded His disciples of the Scripture, 'I am consumed with zeal for my Father's house!' (Ps. 69:9) The Jews demanded to know from Jesus how, what He has just done in the temple, could possibly point to the significance of His messianic mission. "Show us a sign!" To which Jesus responded, 'The temple will be completely destroyed by you and in three days I will raise it up!' They did not understand that the temple Jesus was pointing to, was the human body. (In Him, the only true address of GOD was to be redeemed in human life in His resurrection! See Hosea 6:2, 'After two days He will revive us, on the third day He will raise us up!' also Ephesians 2:5 and 1Peter 1:3, Acts 7:47-50. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made with hands; As the Prophet says, 'Heaven in My Throne, and earth My footstool. What house will you build for Me, says the LORD, or what is the place of My rest? Did not My hand make all these things?'
The word heiros speaks of the greater temple building with all its outer courts etc....whereas the word Jesus used here is naos, referring to the inner sanctuary - this is also the word Paul used in 1Corinthians 6:16, "Do you not realize that your body by design is the sacred shrine of the Spirit of GOD?" This is the most sacred place in the universe! There is nowhere in eternity that can match this! See John 1:14, "And the Word became flesh and now resides within us! And 14:20, 'In that day you will know that I am in My Father and you in Me and I in you!'" These words of Jesus as well as their significant prophetic connection with Scripture gave such clear context to the disciples when they later, after His resurrection, recalled all these things."
Colossians 1:19, 2:9-10 The full measure of GOD'S [1] happy delight in human life indwells Him. (Delightful intent, [1, G2106] eudokeo.)...All of [1] Deity [2] resided in Him, in a human body! He proves that human life is tailor-made for GOD! ( The word, [1, G2320] theotes, means godhead/deity, is feminine in form. Jesus gave detailed expression of what the Father, Son and Spirit is like, in human form. The word, [2, G2730] katoikeo means to dwell in, to inhabit. While the expanse cannot measure or define GOD, their exact likeness is displayed in human skin. See Col. 1:19, "GOD is fully at home in Him." Jesus exhibited GOD'S happy delight to be human.) And you are in Him! He is the [1] chief authority and [2] fountainhead of your being, [3] endorsing your completeness. (The word, [1, G746] arche, means chief in rank. The head - [2, G3739, G2776] he kaphale. GOD packaged completeness in "I am." The word, [3, G1849] exousia, is often translated authority; is from (G1832 is in the third person singular present indicative of a compound of G1537 ek and G1510 eimi ) ek + eimi , originating out of "I am." The days are over where our lives were dicated to under the rule of the law of performance and an inferior identity.)
Ephesians 4:7, 11, 13 Grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ....What GOD has in us is gift wrapped to the world....Standing face-to-face in equal stature to the measure of the [1] completeness of Christ. (The word, [1, G4138] pleroma, means a life filled to the brim with Christ, like a freight ship carrying its cargo.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
Okay, we are through the first note the LORD willing we shall look at the next, "Two Witnesses dressed in Sackcloth," in our next visit. May the LORD bring life alive within you and yours.
Continuing with The Measure of the Temple:
Our base scripture is Revelation 11:1-2 which when read with a renewed mind reads as: I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar as well as those who worshiped in there. This measuring shall not include the outer court since it was given to the multitudes who would be treading around the outskirts of the holy city for forty-two months.
Colossians 1:26-27 Humanity's most sought after quest, the mystery which has remained elusive and concealed for ages and generations, is now fully realized in our redeemed innocence. Within us, GOD is delighted to exhibit the priceless treasure of this glorious unveiling of Christ's indwelling in order that every person on the planet, whoever they are, may now come to the greatest discovery of all time and recognize Christ in them as in a mirror! He is the [1] desire of the nations and completes their every expectation! (He is not hiding in history, or in outer space nor in the future, neither in the pages of Scripture, he is merely mirrored there to be unveiled within you. Mat. 13:44, Gal. 1:15, 16, 2Cor. 3:18, 4:4, 7. This is huge! What GOD was able to disclose in the Saints is immediately equally relevant in the nations! Christ in the nations is the hope of glory! This is the mystery of the ages! This is what we were waiting for [1, Haggai 2:6-7])
John 2:17-18, 19, 21-22 This incident reminded His disciples of the Scripture, 'I am consumed with zeal for my Father's house!' (Ps. 69:9) The Jews demanded to know from Jesus how, what He has just done in the temple, could possibly point to the significance of His messianic mission. "Show us a sign!" To which Jesus responded, 'The temple will be completely destroyed by you and in three days I will raise it up!' They did not understand that the temple Jesus was pointing to, was the human body. (In Him, the only true address of GOD was to be redeemed in human life in His resurrection! See Hosea 6:2, 'After two days He will revive us, on the third day He will raise us up!' also Ephesians 2:5 and 1Peter 1:3, Acts 7:47-50. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made with hands; As the Prophet says, 'Heaven in My Throne, and earth My footstool. What house will you build for Me, says the LORD, or what is the place of My rest? Did not My hand make all these things?'
The word heiros speaks of the greater temple building with all its outer courts etc....whereas the word Jesus used here is naos, referring to the inner sanctuary - this is also the word Paul used in 1Corinthians 6:16, "Do you not realize that your body by design is the sacred shrine of the Spirit of GOD?" This is the most sacred place in the universe! There is nowhere in eternity that can match this! See John 1:14, "And the Word became flesh and now resides within us! And 14:20, 'In that day you will know that I am in My Father and you in Me and I in you!'" These words of Jesus as well as their significant prophetic connection with Scripture gave such clear context to the disciples when they later, after His resurrection, recalled all these things."
Colossians 1:19, 2:9-10 The full measure of GOD'S [1] happy delight in human life indwells Him. (Delightful intent, [1, G2106] eudokeo.)...All of [1] Deity [2] resided in Him, in a human body! He proves that human life is tailor-made for GOD! ( The word, [1, G2320] theotes, means godhead/deity, is feminine in form. Jesus gave detailed expression of what the Father, Son and Spirit is like, in human form. The word, [2, G2730] katoikeo means to dwell in, to inhabit. While the expanse cannot measure or define GOD, their exact likeness is displayed in human skin. See Col. 1:19, "GOD is fully at home in Him." Jesus exhibited GOD'S happy delight to be human.) And you are in Him! He is the [1] chief authority and [2] fountainhead of your being, [3] endorsing your completeness. (The word, [1, G746] arche, means chief in rank. The head - [2, G3739, G2776] he kaphale. GOD packaged completeness in "I am." The word, [3, G1849] exousia, is often translated authority; is from (G1832 is in the third person singular present indicative of a compound of G1537 ek and G1510 eimi ) ek + eimi , originating out of "I am." The days are over where our lives were dicated to under the rule of the law of performance and an inferior identity.)
Ephesians 4:7, 11, 13 Grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the gift of Christ....What GOD has in us is gift wrapped to the world....Standing face-to-face in equal stature to the measure of the [1] completeness of Christ. (The word, [1, G4138] pleroma, means a life filled to the brim with Christ, like a freight ship carrying its cargo.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
Okay, we are through the first note the LORD willing we shall look at the next, "Two Witnesses dressed in Sackcloth," in our next visit. May the LORD bring life alive within you and yours.
Tuesday, February 11, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, between the chapters, of chapter 11-1, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are about to look at the notes of the author of this study Bible, The Mirror. For chapter 11 they are three in number and titled as: The Measure of the Temple; My Two Witnesses, Dressed in Sackcloth; The Most Holy Place, the inner sanctuary of GOD. Now these I may break up into two parts, these would be the first and the third portions.
The Measure of the Temple:
The Incarnate Messiah is the measure of the temple! The Human Body is the sanctuary of GOD!
Revelation 11:1-2 I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the [1] inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar [of incense] as well as those who worshiped in there. (He first introduced the Jewish believers to the new order: The royal scepter as measure speaks of the Melchizedek anointing upon the worshiper as the inner sanctuary of GOD. A temple, not made with hands. The mystery of the ages is Christ in you. The word [1] naos, inner sanctuary; The most holy place - see there the table and the daily bread, the golden lampstand, the golden altar of incense, the torn veil, the ark of the covenant - the intimate, incarnate embraced in our eternal, redeemed union - we are measured in the Messiah. The order of Melchizedek, the reign of righteousness by faith, replaced the old Levitical order of righteousness by performance. The royal scepter of the Melchizedek-order is the measure of the new Covenant.
The root of the word Messiah also means to measure! Aramaic misah stem is Messiah (מָשִׁיחַ) to anoint; to measure.
The verb to smear, anoint - Late Hebrew, originally probably as Arabic to wipe or stroke with the hand [compare RS Semitic i. 215; 2nd ed., 283], anoint, aramaic anoint; in Aramaic inscription see CISii.1. No.145, C, 1; Palmyrene oil VogNo.16; Ethipic anoint, feast, dine DiLex 176; [Assyrian masa --- is measure; Aramaic id.; Arabic measure, compare DlProl. 178 Fra282]) This measure shall not include the outer court since it was given unto the multitudes who would be treading around the outskirts of the holy city for forty-two months. (Before the Lamb was slain and raised, in the duration of the time of the unfolding of the prophetic word in the mouths of the two witnesses [Moses and Elijah] represented in the ministry of Jesus - the multitude of humanity were outside the covenant of Israel.)
Ephesians 2:12-17 "During that time you were distanced from the Messianic hope; You had nothing in common with Israel. You felt foreign to the covenants of prophetic promise, living a life with nothing to look forward to in a world where GOD seemed absent. But now, wow! Everything has changed; You have discovered yourselves to be located in Christ. What once seemed so distant is now so near; His blood reveals your redeemed innocence and authentic genesis. It is in Him that we are one at peace with everyone; He disolved every definition of division. In His incarnation, He rendered the entire Jewish system of ceremonial laws and regulations useless as a measure to justify human life and conduct. In that He died humanity's death all grounds for tension and hostility were entirely removed. The peace He proclaimed reveals one new human race, created and defined in Christ, instead of two groups of people separated by their ethnic identity and differences. Both parties are fully represented and equally reconciled to GOD in one human body through the cross. He reinstated the former harmony; All opposing elements were thus utterly defeated. On that basis He made His public appearance, proclaiming the Good News of peace to the entire human race; Both those who felt left out in the cold (as far as the promises and covenants were concerned), as well as to those who were near all along (because of their Jewish identity).
The measuring of the Temple reminds of Ezekiel 40-43 and Zechariah 2. In John 2:19, referring to his murder on the cross and His glorious resurrection, Jesus said, 'Destroy this temple, and in 3 days I will raise it up!' His death and resurrection concluded the prophetic significance of the old Temple period and shifted the focus to the human person as the Living Temple-address of GOD. He does not dwell in buildings made by human hands. Psalm 74:2; Jeremiah 10:16, 51:19. We are the rod (measure) of GOD'S inheritance.
A time and times and the dividing of time Daniel 7:25, 12:7, Revelation 11:3, 12:6, 14, 13:5; three and a half years of Jesus' ministry = 42 months. Also referred to as a thousand two hundred and threescore days, or a "time and times and the dividing of time." And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease. The middle of the week - 3 and a half days prophetically pointing to the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry.
Forty and two months (menas tesserakonta kai duo). accusative of extent of time. This period in Daniel 7:25, 12:7 occurs in three forms in the book of Revelation; forty-two months, here and Rev. 13:5, 1260 days, Rev. 11:3, 12:6, time, times and half a time or 3-1/2 years, Rev. 12:14.
This period points to the culmination of the law and the prophets [the two witnesses] in the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry. Also pictured in the sojourn of the woman in the wilderness [Rev. 12:13-16] - the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry - from His baptism to His crucifixion.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
We shall the LORD willing pick this back up with Colossians 1:26 in our next visit. Until then may the LORD be with both you and yours.
The Measure of the Temple:
The Incarnate Messiah is the measure of the temple! The Human Body is the sanctuary of GOD!
Revelation 11:1-2 I was handed a measuring reed resembling a royal scepter and instructed to arise and measure the [1] inner sanctuary of GOD and the altar [of incense] as well as those who worshiped in there. (He first introduced the Jewish believers to the new order: The royal scepter as measure speaks of the Melchizedek anointing upon the worshiper as the inner sanctuary of GOD. A temple, not made with hands. The mystery of the ages is Christ in you. The word [1] naos, inner sanctuary; The most holy place - see there the table and the daily bread, the golden lampstand, the golden altar of incense, the torn veil, the ark of the covenant - the intimate, incarnate embraced in our eternal, redeemed union - we are measured in the Messiah. The order of Melchizedek, the reign of righteousness by faith, replaced the old Levitical order of righteousness by performance. The royal scepter of the Melchizedek-order is the measure of the new Covenant.
The root of the word Messiah also means to measure! Aramaic misah stem is Messiah (מָשִׁיחַ) to anoint; to measure.
The verb to smear, anoint - Late Hebrew, originally probably as Arabic to wipe or stroke with the hand [compare RS Semitic i. 215; 2nd ed., 283], anoint, aramaic anoint; in Aramaic inscription see CISii.1. No.145, C, 1; Palmyrene oil VogNo.16; Ethipic anoint, feast, dine DiLex 176; [Assyrian masa --- is measure; Aramaic id.; Arabic measure, compare DlProl. 178 Fra282]) This measure shall not include the outer court since it was given unto the multitudes who would be treading around the outskirts of the holy city for forty-two months. (Before the Lamb was slain and raised, in the duration of the time of the unfolding of the prophetic word in the mouths of the two witnesses [Moses and Elijah] represented in the ministry of Jesus - the multitude of humanity were outside the covenant of Israel.)
Ephesians 2:12-17 "During that time you were distanced from the Messianic hope; You had nothing in common with Israel. You felt foreign to the covenants of prophetic promise, living a life with nothing to look forward to in a world where GOD seemed absent. But now, wow! Everything has changed; You have discovered yourselves to be located in Christ. What once seemed so distant is now so near; His blood reveals your redeemed innocence and authentic genesis. It is in Him that we are one at peace with everyone; He disolved every definition of division. In His incarnation, He rendered the entire Jewish system of ceremonial laws and regulations useless as a measure to justify human life and conduct. In that He died humanity's death all grounds for tension and hostility were entirely removed. The peace He proclaimed reveals one new human race, created and defined in Christ, instead of two groups of people separated by their ethnic identity and differences. Both parties are fully represented and equally reconciled to GOD in one human body through the cross. He reinstated the former harmony; All opposing elements were thus utterly defeated. On that basis He made His public appearance, proclaiming the Good News of peace to the entire human race; Both those who felt left out in the cold (as far as the promises and covenants were concerned), as well as to those who were near all along (because of their Jewish identity).
The measuring of the Temple reminds of Ezekiel 40-43 and Zechariah 2. In John 2:19, referring to his murder on the cross and His glorious resurrection, Jesus said, 'Destroy this temple, and in 3 days I will raise it up!' His death and resurrection concluded the prophetic significance of the old Temple period and shifted the focus to the human person as the Living Temple-address of GOD. He does not dwell in buildings made by human hands. Psalm 74:2; Jeremiah 10:16, 51:19. We are the rod (measure) of GOD'S inheritance.
A time and times and the dividing of time Daniel 7:25, 12:7, Revelation 11:3, 12:6, 14, 13:5; three and a half years of Jesus' ministry = 42 months. Also referred to as a thousand two hundred and threescore days, or a "time and times and the dividing of time." And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease. The middle of the week - 3 and a half days prophetically pointing to the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry.
Forty and two months (menas tesserakonta kai duo). accusative of extent of time. This period in Daniel 7:25, 12:7 occurs in three forms in the book of Revelation; forty-two months, here and Rev. 13:5, 1260 days, Rev. 11:3, 12:6, time, times and half a time or 3-1/2 years, Rev. 12:14.
This period points to the culmination of the law and the prophets [the two witnesses] in the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry. Also pictured in the sojourn of the woman in the wilderness [Rev. 12:13-16] - the 3 and a half years of Jesus' ministry - from His baptism to His crucifixion.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
We shall the LORD willing pick this back up with Colossians 1:26 in our next visit. Until then may the LORD be with both you and yours.
Monday, February 10, 2020
"The Secret of GOD," as revealed by John in the Revelation of Christ, chapter 11:19, with a renewed mind and our victory as foretold.
We are now about to get a view of the inner-court of the sanctuary, this following the seventh trumpet.
Revelation 11:19 "And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail." (KJV)
Revelation 11:19 "Then God's temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple. There were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail." (ESV)
Revelation 11:19 "And the innermost sanctuary of GOD'S heavenly temple was laid bare, where the ark of the covenant was fully unveiled to be gazed upon with insight - and there was lightnings and thunderous voices and an earthquake and great hailstones!" (Rev. 15. Here is the context: Hebrews 9:3-4, The second veil led to the inner tent known as the Most Holy Place. Therein were the golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant. The box was completely covered in gold, both inside and out. In it were kept the golden jar with a sample of the miracle manna from the wilderness, as well as the budding staff of Aaron, [Moses' staff - but here referred to as Aaron's - when they first met with Pharaoh Aaron's staff of the Egyptian magicians] as also the two engraved tablets of stone with the ten commandments of the Covenant. (A "fire-pan" was for the purpose of carrying fire, in order to burn incense on the day of Atonement once a year in the ultimate place of worship. The word, kibotos, the wooden box, is the same word used for Noah's ark; The container of humanity's redemption. Gen. 6:14 The manna prophetically pictured the true bread from heaven, not the bread that humanity's labor produces. John 4:35, 38.)
Hebrews 9:5, Hovering above and over the ark of the Covenant were the two cherubim, images of glory, intent upon the mercy seat that covered the sins of the people. Every detail is significant but cannot be discussed at length in this writing. ( The Hebrew word, kopher, means to cover (specifically with bitumen), figuratively to cover by legal and equal exchange in order to restore a previously disturbed balance. The rule was an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life, etc..
The ark represented a place of mercy where atonement would be made. Innocence had to be achieved at a cost equal to the replacement value of the peace sought between the different parties. See also Genesis 6:14, where the same word denotes the covering of Noah's ark with pitch. The Cross cannot be taken out of the equation of atonement. The first animal sacrifice was when GOD used an animal's skin to cover Adam and woman's nakedness.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
In our next visit the LORD willing we shall look at the extended notes written by the author. Which are: "The Measure of the Temple, My Two Witnesses, Dressed in Sackcloth, and The Most Holy Place, the inner sanctuary of GOD."
Revelation 11:19 "And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail." (KJV)
Revelation 11:19 "Then God's temple in heaven was opened, and the ark of his covenant was seen within his temple. There were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake, and heavy hail." (ESV)
Revelation 11:19 "And the innermost sanctuary of GOD'S heavenly temple was laid bare, where the ark of the covenant was fully unveiled to be gazed upon with insight - and there was lightnings and thunderous voices and an earthquake and great hailstones!" (Rev. 15. Here is the context: Hebrews 9:3-4, The second veil led to the inner tent known as the Most Holy Place. Therein were the golden altar of incense, and the ark of the covenant. The box was completely covered in gold, both inside and out. In it were kept the golden jar with a sample of the miracle manna from the wilderness, as well as the budding staff of Aaron, [Moses' staff - but here referred to as Aaron's - when they first met with Pharaoh Aaron's staff of the Egyptian magicians] as also the two engraved tablets of stone with the ten commandments of the Covenant. (A "fire-pan" was for the purpose of carrying fire, in order to burn incense on the day of Atonement once a year in the ultimate place of worship. The word, kibotos, the wooden box, is the same word used for Noah's ark; The container of humanity's redemption. Gen. 6:14 The manna prophetically pictured the true bread from heaven, not the bread that humanity's labor produces. John 4:35, 38.)
Hebrews 9:5, Hovering above and over the ark of the Covenant were the two cherubim, images of glory, intent upon the mercy seat that covered the sins of the people. Every detail is significant but cannot be discussed at length in this writing. ( The Hebrew word, kopher, means to cover (specifically with bitumen), figuratively to cover by legal and equal exchange in order to restore a previously disturbed balance. The rule was an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life, etc..
The ark represented a place of mercy where atonement would be made. Innocence had to be achieved at a cost equal to the replacement value of the peace sought between the different parties. See also Genesis 6:14, where the same word denotes the covering of Noah's ark with pitch. The Cross cannot be taken out of the equation of atonement. The first animal sacrifice was when GOD used an animal's skin to cover Adam and woman's nakedness.) (The Mirror, with editing.)
In our next visit the LORD willing we shall look at the extended notes written by the author. Which are: "The Measure of the Temple, My Two Witnesses, Dressed in Sackcloth, and The Most Holy Place, the inner sanctuary of GOD."
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