"For, lo, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will bring again the captivity of my people Israel and Judah, saith the LORD: and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it."
One of my arguments against divorce and remarriage while a first spouse is alive is not only seen in the latter half of Matthew 5:32 (whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery); but is also represented in the vow made "for better or worse until death do us part" or something to that affect. Now some have a Pre-Nup that puts financial off ramps; shall we say if things go sour; but no one that I am aware of says "if my spouse commits adultery I can divorce them and marry another" as an exception clause in their vow that I am aware of.
As this is a subject of great debate and a hot topic I am merely going to use it as a building block to prove the cohesion of scripture in regard to conditional terms in relation to God's covenants. In general God is eternal in terms of covenants and binding things remain with the exception of the old covenant of laws with National Israel which the new covenant in Christ has replaced. I would recommend a study of Hebrews 9 on the subject in depth. I would also say that the great haitus as it were between Daniel 9:26-27 separating the 69 weeks from the final "week" of seven years of the Tribulation judgment and Antichrist rule. God still as I see it has plans to fulfill His plan for Israel; in short putting them through the fire in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7); and establishing His rule fulfilling the complete expansion of their borders to originally promised areas (See Psalm 72:8; His dominion from "sea to sea".
Now in terms of this subject in particular we see lets say with a business covenant; for example man's conditions in a written contract that has terms of business transactions and provisions for any violations. There are varying "mission plans" that can be discussed but each party signs off that they understand and agree to these arrangements.
In the next post I plan to look at the church and similar concepts of responsibility of its members.
It is late but out of a sense of duty let me briefly sum up some other concepts here from scripture. I did earlier posts which probably are gone on this subject; not sure if a name search can look things up although things ARE archived permanently it seems under certain scripture references of the day.
As stated in the last post there are what I would call "hidden" nuggets referring to the Rapture. Psalm 40 in the beginning is one I have mentioned; another is Zephaniah 2:3. Then there are the precedents of Enoch being translated because He had a close walk with God and Elijah. Jesus of course was the "first of the firstfruits" and the many who came out of their graves after His resurrection was an early gleaning type firstfruits as well ( Matt. 27:52-53).
We are; symbolically the "kings and priests" shown in Revelation 5 and other scriptures. Again it seems at times confusing but verses there discuss being redeemed to allow us to differentiate between angelic beings and people.
One strong point which we probably all agree upon is to focus on the Word; especially in light of heaven. This is how we gain spiritual insight; and it keeps us from myths such as the 3 days of darkness which come from some sort of pagan mysticism that is supposed to occur before the Rapture. Indeed there IS darkness coming during various judgments.
The other point is that the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7) needs to help provoke God's people ( Zech 13:8) who endure until the end through saving faith of that time of trial which the whole WORLD goes through which Revelation 3:10 promises we can as the overcomers in the Godly remnant type church can experience.
Again I have cited verses in Daniel which discuss saints being overcome ( Daniel 7:25 also seen in Revelation 13:7); yet now in the "church age" or dispensation the gates of hell will not prevail against the church ( Matt. 16:18). This means absolute apostasy in Mystery Babylon can't come until we are gone.
Dear everyone, NOTHING comes into being without God's will. It's that simple. 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Often when I sit and look out over the landscape that stretches out in an endless road. And I see blue after blue on the horizon of mountains rising above each other. "Was that all"? How inadequate I often feel when the days go by nonstop. Have I built anything that will stand, today? Do you know, only God knows. He who knows everything in advance. He who knows whom He would choose. The weakest and the least stand still in Deuteronomy 7:6-7 That is my full conviction. But He has given the Call to all people, and He sees who are willing to sit on the wall. He understands who is willing to take up their cross and follow Him. Can you believe He is saddened by all the deniers? If a scripture seems incomprehensible to someone, so be it. You get it piecemeal and divided; a human brain cannot embrace everything that the Lord gives at once. Once in my youth I always shared Jeremiah 30:1 in conversation with people who believed that we all have one and the same God, all over the globe. See that whoever can. We also grow in the Lord Jesus as He wants. I must not believe even if I read hundreds of pages that everything is digested and understood. If we see a film once, it shows us another side the next time, which we did not see at all the first time. Was that understandable? I'm going to do a favor and then do an everyday thing like make blackcurrant juice. Before the magpie takes it out there, but it has to have something too. But I am going now, we hear later, love you all.
In Daniel 9:20 we see Daniel making supplication before the LORD and confessing his sin and the sin of HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL.
"And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God;
In Verse 23 we see Gabriel come to give him answers according to his prayer. Daniel 9:23.
In verse 24 he says "Seventy weeks are determined upon THY PEOPLE! ISRAEL!
The great Tribulation is to drive Israel to acknowledge their Saviour.
This is prophesied in Hosea 5:15. "I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.
In Matthew 23:38-39 Jesus says "Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
Israel will be saved out of the tribulation when they call on the name of the Lord.
Jeremiah 30:7 "Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.
The Church will be kept from the HOUR of the tribulation!
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee FROM THE HOUR of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.
FROM THE HOUR of TEMPTATION!
The Church won't be here during this time period!
If the Church is raptured after the Great tribulation and the rest of the world is annihilated who's going to populate the Millenium?
Is the rapture a resurrection? No. Some of this group is alive!
Are those who are alive, then caught up "part" of the first resurrection? Yes.
The first resurrection is better understood as a category rather than a sequence.
Those who are in Christ whether sleep or alive is part of the first Resurrection.
Again, Christ ruling "Jacob" on the throne of David haven't happened yet! Also, that throne did not exist during for Christ ministry here on earth.
What is Important is God confirmed his promises by an oath in Psalms 132:11 The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. There are many of these promises!
Prophecies pointing to this section of scripture especially the 70 week of Daniel onwards centers around Israel and precisely "JACOB" as this seems to be used often when their rebellious nature is being highlighted. It speaks of "THE PEOPLE" of that nation. JACOB!
This is why it's called the time of Jacobs trouble! Jeremiah 30:7-9.
The Church was never in trouble in this respect.
Ezekiel 37:21-25 cannot apply to the Church. (Just one of many reasons why.)
When examining Ezekiel 36:20-27 we see whose reputation is at stake in keeping these promises. (Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went.)
The Blindness of Israel will be lifted when the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. Then God will focus his attention on Israel.
This is what James is saying in Acts 15:14-16. "Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,
After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up.
He says "AFTER THIS! After what? After God takes out of the Gentiles a people for his name! This is where salvation has went to the Gentiles UNTIL the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
All thy lovers have forgotten thee; they seek thee not; for I have wounded thee with the wound of an enemy, with the chastisement of a cruel one, for the multitude of thine iniquity; because thy sins were increased. ( Jeremiah 30:14).
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. ( Isaiah 10:20).
Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened. ( Zech 11:17).
Let us be of those who heed the call; likely those in Israel before Antichrist comes into the Temple after the Rapture.
Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
and again in Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.
Psalm 31:20 "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues."
There will no doubt be many hidden in the earth; still a small portion of all humanity as most perish at that time. Again we see that God has His purposes: Two-thirds of all the nation of Israel will be cut off and die,[a] but a third will be left in the land. ( Zechariah 13:8); and man will be in general mors scarce than gold as to the few who survive ( Isaiah 13:12).
Today with the famine for the Word of God ( Amos 8:11) we undoubtably will have the literal famine; war and pestilence with the seal judgments or individual precursors very soon. Knowing these scriptures with a proper declaring of His promises is imperative; not worthless words
When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; ( Deut. 4:30).
The preceding versions discuss the diaspora among all nations; and this verse is followed with verse 31
31 (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.
At the end of the Tribulation we read this in Ezekiel 20:37-38
37 And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:
38 And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the Lord.
Thus we see the final fulfillment of this in Zechariah 13:8 And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. The time of "Jacob's trouble" will accomplish this
as Jeremiah 30:7 states
"Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it."
There are going to be some physical survivors of that time as illustrated in other scriptures. Mark 13:14 "When you see 'the abomination that causes desolation'[a] standing where it[b] does not belong-let the reader understand-then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.
We need to familiarize ourselves with the Word as there are hundreds of relevant scriptures whose ultimate fulfillment is nigh.
God will fulfill His ultimate plans; but it is hard to say what twists and turns will occur; and what the state of our nation will be once the Tribulation begins. I would argue a lot depends on whether we are Babylon the Great.
There is always a remnant saved; we see this here; in Exodus and Revelation 2 and 3.
My last post started referencing the New Testament. Before we get into that we need to discuss the exile and post Babylonian exile as it had a prophetic timeline of 70 years; but a longer prophetic implication in Daniel 9:24-27. This would involve a 69 week (or 69 x 7 year) period until Jesus was martyred (or cut off) which would be a parenthesis; as it were around the church age which is notably absent. Therefore; their consummation and greatest trial is in the time of "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
God had warned ahead of time with the blessings and cursings of Deuteronomy 28-30 (or around there) of the state; even of the last days where there was a conditional sort of situation that would allow for repentance even in the last days and tribulation ( Deut. 4:30). But the diaspora was a state Israel spent the vast majority of its existence especially after the Babylonian invasion. We would see due to their idolotry a judgment where they would be sent in exile and suffer greatly; but God promised to establish them a second time after captivity ( Jeremiah 30:3; and Isaiah 11:11). They will finally realize who the true Messiah is but according to Zechariah not until near the end of the Tribulation (see Isaiah 10:20 also for them recognizing Antichrist isn't their true hope).
In this study in general; we have looked at those individuals who have caused; in a large part their own headaches and troubles and also the prophets who were challenged and ridiculed by their own people when they were faithfully preaching the truth rather than what people by and large wanted to hear. We certainly see the same thing today. Finally there is judgment where there are innocent victims caught up in events who either don't heed ore aren't aware of the warning signs to escape ahead of time. This today involves those who hate Israel and are allied for their destruction; much like what we see in Psalm 83. That is a sort of national persecution.
Revelation 15:1 - And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.
And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up (or completes), the wrath of God.
This is what is known by Jeremiah in Jeremiah 30:7 as the Time of Jacob's Trouble. Also in that verse, Jeremiah says that day is great, so that nothing is like it.
In Daniel 12:1, he says this time will be a time of trouble such as never was here on the earth. This is the seven last plagues. Under the breaking of the seventh seal, we have seven trumpets. And now we have seven bowl judgments. They all are under the seventh seal. The seventh bowl judgment begins at the seventh trumpet.
Revelation 15:2 - And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.
They are standing on the sea of glass. That's this large area that's right before the throne that we saw back in Chapter 4. And they have the harps of God. These again would be the lyres, the guitar like instruments.
Revelation 15:6 - And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles, or sashes. That would be the dress of the high priest. So, these angels have the seven last plagues.
I believe it was Josh McDowell who originally did a study on the death of Christ; along with others who have done medical analysis as to what the crucifixion would have entailed. We have the Shroud of Turin which certainly seems to be the linen that bears Christ's image; explained as to the apparent later date as being material taken as a sample on the outer edges of the garment that were repaired after fire damage in the 1300's.
At present I don't feel it would be edifying or that I am even worthy of doing an analysis of this chapter. The story unfolds in all its graphic detail; fulfilling numerous prophecies; especially poignant to the entire chapter of Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22. It is said that the spiritual suffering of Christ being separated for that moment from the Father was worse than the physical agony but can't be ignored; certainly. Satan is no half hearted foe as to the level of destruction he brings in this hour of darkness (see Luke 22:53). God allowed him to bring forth the circumstances leading to His death; Jesus still gave up the ghost when the work was done in saying "it is finished" ( John 19:30). Once again when the "restrainer" is removed from the earth ( 2 Thess. 2:6-8) the powers of evil will have full control for a short time ( Daniel 8:24).
Matthew 28-The Resurrection
Jesus of course came back to life early Sunday morning which we celebrate this week. Hallelujia and Maranatha (Lord come soon). It is hard to fathom how I could live until 18 years old and not know the Lord as I have for the last 42 years. The Gospels are clear that even with one raising from the dead wicked people won't believe (as illustrated in the Parable of the rich man in hell). The nation of Israel still largely is blind until the time the Lord has set for Jacob's trouble. Jeremiah 30:7 says: Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.
Day 23 January 23, 2025 Lamentations 3:22-23 KJV God's Faithfulness West Angeles Church Consecration Calendar
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
I Pray thanking God for his steadfast faithfulness in my life.
Lamentations 3:22 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" God's mercy to all the world reassures Affirmation of Faith. God wanting to save you." A refrence example scripture Jeremiah 30:11 KJV. "For the Lord is good Psalms 100:5 KJV."
Principle Holy: To all religions. Always performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love."
Lamentations 3:23 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" God is always there for you everyday." Surety amd Savior to his people. The Bible to be the Inspired and only infallible written Word of God.
Ezra 3:11 And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
Jeremiah 30:18-24 Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof. And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small. Their children also shall be as aforetime, and their congregation shall be established before me, and I will punish all that oppress them. And their nobles shall be of themselves, and their governor shall proceed from the midst of them; and I will cause him to draw near, and he shall approach unto me: for who is this that engaged his heart to approach unto me? saith the LORD. And ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. Behold, the whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it shall fall with pain upon the head of the wicked. The fierce anger of the LORD shall not return, until he have done it, and until he have performed the intents of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
A quick overview of the entire chapter of Ezekiel 36 shows that the meaning is primarily in the exodus and eventual regathering of God's people. When we get into a couple chapters later we enter the Ezekiel 38 war which continues showing the fate of nations that fight against Israel. This verse also is used to demonstrate the change in each believer's state; as opposed to the condition mentioned in Jeremiah 17:9 on how deceitful and wicked man's unregenerate heart nature is.
The principle involved in the nation of Israel repenting is found in this verse: Romans 11:25
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
The Lord will therefore use the time of "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7) to put the Jews through the fire; and at that time 2/3 will perish and 1/3 make it through ( Zechariah 13:8) which signifies the refining fire. Naturally this is preceded by the arrival of the false messiah who will be venerated by many until the time mentioned in Isaiah 10:20 which would be at the midpoint of the Tribulation.
The new covenant mentioned in Jeremiah 31:31 and the next several verses after also could be applied to that which Christ accomplished for those in the church (or church age). It's final fruition will finally reach Israel who rejected the first coming of their king because they didn't recognize Him as the suffering servant; and or assumed He would immediately overtake their enemies and start an earthly Kingdom.
In general I would state that every age or dispensation has a similar fate; a beginning and end. Israel had several Diasporas and in the last days the church in general will fall away.
1Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 2The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, 3Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
This prayer is basically synonymous with Revelation 19; and a host of other prophecies related to Christ's return in victory to rule and reign over the earth. The Tribulation itself begins just 7 years earlier with the Daniel 9:27 covenant "with many". The covenant with "death and hell" ( Isaiah 28:15 describing what the authors of this contract themselves proclaim at its inception).
It appears that the world may very well praise God if we take the verses in Revelation 5:3 literally. Once we get to the sixth seal in Revelation 6:12-15 we see men running from God's judgment; but after the Revelation 13 beast rises up and the False Prophet does his thing the world will take their mark of allegiance and in the end will be deceived by the 3 demons ( Rev. 16:13) and decide to fight against the Lord. That will be a consummation of a number of battles; not the least of which is the Ezekiel 38 war where everyone meets at Meddigo; probably beginning to fight one another; then turning on each other and fighting Christ.
Moving on; verses 4-7 say: He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
5Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
6Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
7I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
Trying to focus this as it applied to David's understanding of what was a clearly prophetic message; we see how David was a sort of forerunner of the Messiah who would indeed be victorious over His foes and rule and reign. David is promised to rule with Him as well ( Jeremiah 30:9).
I may have touched on specific examples of prayers that I have seen answered. The clear teaching from James is that we shouldn't focus on things to satisfy our own "lusts" ( James 4:3). Another specific prayer that we need to be cautious with is praying for any individual to be saved. This is likely to elicit a hotbed of controversy in regard to those who are called; chosen and predestined. But it shows PRESUMPTION; that our desire for someone's spiritual fate must line up with God's plans. Whether we follow this viewpoint or not; we simply do not know whether someone is going to respond to the message of salvation or not.
What we CAN do in this case is ask for God to show favor so that a person is able to hear about the Gospel from other individuals; as well as have circumstances come up that force them to think on spiritual things. Another problem is that short term we tend to be impatient rather than waiting on God's timing; allowing difficult trials to do their work; or thinking we have to be the ones to be used by God to convert someone. If we obsess too much on those we know and love; of course we can be ignoring those who in the flesh we either wouldn't consider or we find repulsive; not thinking in terms of how God would transform someone and they would become part of our family in Christ as adopted sons or daughters.
Anyway; back to general prayers. Many pray for the "peace of Israel" ( Psalm 122:6) but without realizing the prophetic plans God has in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7) we can only see a temporary fix with such a prayer. When we pray for everyone to be healed we surely can't ignore scriptures even in the time of Paul the Apostle which indicated that indeed people would become ill. And in terms of a general praise and such; it is a prelude to prayer in order to demonstrate how we are getting to know Christ and vice verse and alone isn't a prayer per se.
Revelation series focusing on God's destruction rather than those of the world's armies: SEALS 2-4
INTRODUCTION
I am going to continue with the second through the fourth seal of Revelation here. My purpose is not to nit pick about every time death occurs because of man's weapons of war or whether it is by other means. The overall emphasis is to show how all the future events are ultimately controlled by the Lord and in a sense "choreographed" that way. Indeed; whatever the means surely the time of Jacob's trouble will be like no other in terms of the level of destruction on the earth. ( Jeremiah 30:7; Matt. 24:21).
Since this is the case; we can't just look at statistics here to determine how awful things will be. That is clear from seeing that just EIGHT souls were saved on Noah's ark. Clearly there are many more than that; albeit a small percent of the earth at large that survives to repopulate in the Millennium. The demonic release "en masse" from the bottomless pit and probably other places in the underworld is what makes it so horrible as they will clearly be tormenting men by the 5th Trumpet. The giant hybrids of Noah's day were destroyed but we never saw a time of such horrible devastation by agents of evil as is to come.
War famine and pestilence
Deuteronomy 32:24-25 states: I will send wasting famine against them, consuming pestilence and deadly plague;
I will send against them the fangs of wild beasts, the venom of vipers that glide in the dust.
25 In the street the sword will make them childless; in their homes terror will reign.
These themes of war; famine and pestilence are rife throughout the Old Testament in Ezekiel; and several passages in Jeremiah along with the solemn warnings of Matthew 24 and of course Revelation which we are discussing now. (also see Luke 21:11).
God has judged this way as we see from the passages in Jeremiah in the past in order to take vengeance on the idolatry of Israel. The same thing will happen again.
Study on Jeremiah Ch.30 "Grace and faith" (1 of 2)
"For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished." Jeremiah 30:11 KJV
Here we have clear prophesy of nations that resisted God and his word. He shall make a full end of them.
In the midst of doom and gloom the promise of God to Abraham shall find its fulfillment. "And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."( Ge.12:3) God is rewarding at that point for his faith. It is in the 'now' and he Abram. "Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee" He believed God and his faith had to be of sterner stuff and 'the land that I will shew thee' was according to the time God had set. It is the key to the significance of the name Abraham. As Father of many nations he is a stand-in for his Son who He will send in the fulness of time. Faith is 'the sum total' or the substance that faith holds of "the evidence of things not seen". So he would and as the writer to the Hebrews say, he " obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went./ By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise/ For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God."(11:8-10). Now of Abraham was locked in with that of God so faith is not in the matter of time, place but the characteristic of holiness evident in the Son. Thus his faith was counted unto him for righteousness."And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness."(Ge.15:6)
The 7-year time period mentioned throughout scripture, but described in detail in the books of Daniel and Revelation, is also known as
The great tribulation ( Matthew 24:21)
The Day of the Lord ( Isaiah 2:12; 13:6-9; Joel 1:15; 2:1-31; 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:2)
Trouble or tribulation ( Deuteronomy 4:30)
The time of Jacob's troubles ( Jeremiah 30:7)
Toward the end of Daniel's life, he has a vision described in Daniel 12.
"At that time Michael shall stand up, the great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, every one who is found written in the book. And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever."- Daniel 12:1-3
From this passage, we know that
Unprecedented, troubling times are on the way.
There will be some who will awake to "everlasting life."
There will be some who will awake to "shame and everlasting contempt."
Those who are wise will shine.
A further study of this passage and the 7-year tribulation reveals more about the troubling times and who will awake to everlasting life and who will awake to everlasting contempt.
Everlasting life is given by those who trust in Jesus for their salvation.
Everlasting contempt is given to those who do not trust Jesus.
I have in other posts described why the Rapture is going to occur. It fulfills scriptures such as Malachi 3:16 in the book of remembrance of those who OFTEN talk about the Lord and it is to reward those who patiently wait for His coming ( James 1:12 and other supporting text). My commentary also discussed how it is for the reunion of all the saints; past and present at the Lord's feet; and for us to be presented in the church as "kings and priests" who will rule and reign with Him ( Rev. 5:10). We are the armies of heaven who will eventually return with Christ in Revelation 19:14; and be accompanied by angels as well.
Psalm 40:3 shows how many shall see and fear us being lifted up from the miry clay (verses 1-2). The provoking of the Jews to jealousy ( Romans 11:14) perhaps will occur when the times of the Gentiles are full ( Romans 11:25). In any event the time of Jacob's trouble is specifically for the week of testing for seven years ( Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:26-27) which is also known as Daniel's 70th week.
Let us assume for a moment that the Rapture IS going to happen before the end of this year for instance. How many are ready for His coming? How many have their garments unspotted and unwrinkled ( Eph. 5:27). I have mentioned before that whether people believe the Rapture is Pretribulation or some other later date; it is the fruit of our lives that is most important. A theoretical concept won't keep those away who are true servants of the Master; but I guarantee those who are espousing a PreTrib Rapture but whose lives are not according to His will will by and large be shocked in many cases being left behind. Whether all these people never believed inthe first place or the Rapture is a reward issue; surely a great multitude will be saved but die as martyrs in the Tribulation ( Rev. 7:9). That is the purpose for the Tribulation for God's children; along with gathering the unregenerate for destruction.
Discussion on Matthew 10: Near term and far reaching prophetic implications.
When we see Matthew 10 and compare it with Luke 10 we see some differences. Those in Matthew 10 were told only to go the lost sheep of the house of Israel ( Matthew 10:6). Such was NOT the case with the 72 in Luke's account. We see there is no return mentioned of the Disciples as was with the 72 in Luke 10:17. The same cities were rebuked in Matthew 11:17 as they are in Luke 10:13-15. (incidentally these cities were rebuked BEFORE the Disciples retuned which also signifies their lack of belief in the miracles of Christ Himself if not implying their lack of response to the Gospel and miracles the Disciples and 72 performed in both Gospel accounts).
When we look at Matthew 10 we see far implications; persecutions; being hated by all nations for His Name's sake; going to trial with kings and rulers and finally verses in verse 22:23. "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come." This is a clear indication of the Tribulation as indeed this refers to the Second Coming. It is notable today that one cannot be a citizen of Israel if declaring themselves to be a Christian. The only other option here is to somehow imply the Lord came already as a Full Preterist viewpoint which says somehow Christ already returned in AD 70. The implications here are not only for the Disciples but all those who are going to suffer persecution for His Name's sake; perhaps particularly but not only related to the cities of Israel. Also the 144,000 and 2 Prophets would also be something bringing the climax and greatest challenge for Israel ever seen in the time of "Jacob's Trouble". ( Jeremiah 30:7). God promises deliverance eventually; by death or Rapture or Resurrection.
My earlier segment started discussion on the concept of the state of a soul determining the experience of the time in the Tribulation. Thus; the sufferings that the 144,000 go through (possibly allegorically stated in Matthew 25:36-40) would be still better than that of the unregenerate. They are protected from the judgments during much of the trumpet judgments because of the seal of God ( Rev. 7:3); although subject to imprisonment; famine and thirst. They will be given endurance whether living or dying (can't clearly tell) until they appear before God ( Rev. 7:16). The rest of the world; however by the sixth seal will be terrified ( Rev. 6:12-17). Contrast this with the state of the two prophets in Rev. 11:1-14. Death is swift and there is no fear of what comes thereafter for the saved; for the lost there is of course no peace ( Isaiah 57:21).
I am not attempting to minimize the appalling conditions which come by the unsealing of the seals by Jesus Himself for anyone; but am stating that our spiritual condition determines if we are in terror of God; or are a centerpiece of displaying His glory despite going through the fire at the time of Jacob's sorrow (see Jeremiah 30:7 and surrounding verses for that description).
Now; going back to the Rapture and Resurrection event at or near the first seal event. Matthew 25:1 COULD be thought of as representing those who are either not walking in the Spirit or unsaved. A key verse is at the end in verse 12. Does it mean Christ doesn't KNOW us intimately (know you not) mean the same thing as Matt. 7:21-23 where He NEVER knew us; or could it signify a church like the Ephesians who forget their first love ( Rev. 2:4)? Other interpretations exist-we will leave it there.
No matter who misses the Rapture and is left behind it seems clear is too late to be part of the Bride of Christ ( Eph. 5:27). Nonetheless there will be the final revival in that time ( Rev. 7:9).
Hello Jharveys. I'll share very generally on the passage you quoted.
The chapters 30 to 33 in Jeremiah are God's Words to His people (Israel & Judah) giving them His Promise & certain hope for their future restoration back to their lands. Some consider these chapters as applying to their recovery from the Assyrian & Babylonian captivity (in which they were in at the time), but verses such as Jeremiah 30:3,7,10,11 & others seem to indicate that all of Israel will return to their land of promise, & not just the 'few' who came out of the present captivity. The mention of the 'terrible day, none ever like it, even the time of Jacob's trouble, but Israel will come out of it', indicates that there is still salvation & hope for Israel even after going through the coming time of Great Tribulation.
Then chapter 31 continues this theme of restoration for Israel; with verses 1 to 22 concerning the Northern Kingdom (Israel); verses 23 to 26 the Southern Kingdom (Judah); and verses 27 to 40 to both Kingdoms.
So to Jeremiah 31:23-34 (your passage), the message is first to Judah & then God establishes His New Covenant with both houses (from verse 27). To Judah, God tells them that they will know His blessing on Jerusalem (Mt. Zion) where justice & holiness abounds (v23); & the people will thrive in food production (vv24,25). And so to, the New Covenant which still awaits enforcement, vv27-34 and other verses beyond, gives God's Assurance that both man & animals will abound, that He will prosper them & not afflict & destroy them as before, & they will realize that each one is accountable & punishable for their own sins & not blame their fathers (the meaning of verses 29 & 30). That future day, Israel will have God's Laws written upon their hearts (v33), i.e. they will be changed inwardly & not just giving lip-service as previously and all will truly know intimately their God & not a conditional-based Covenant of the old Mosaic Law. Hope that gives you an adequate outline.
Alan Matthew 13:25....While men slept an enemy came and sowed Tares among the WHEAT.....So the good seed is the WHEAT....As the word of God, that good seed is the bread from Heaven....There is a hidden manna involved.....The very reason the sower goes forth to sow his seed is that he might be multiplied as the stars of heaven.....That was the great Promise that Christ might be mutiplied as the stars of heaven.....Thus the sower and his seed.....Thus the wheat is a baby Christ simply b/c its Christ the bridegroom that is sowing his seed in humanity.....Thats y he has to know us....If he does not know us there will be no fruit which is a baby Christ.....Which is the H.G. the Child of Promise.....Whosoever receiveth one such child in my name receiveth ME....As Jesus said that which is born of the spirit is spirit.....Thats the H.G. that is gonna be born in us via his good seed the living word.....Thats y Peter is saying being bornagain of an incorruptible even by the words of God.....We have to birth a new Creature via his good seed the word......Alan there is only 1 quota for the good fruit.....If I be lifted up i will draw ALL men unto me.....ALL MEN.....And no man can come unto me unless it is given to them of my father.....Which is the father's new covenant Jeremiah 31:34.....I will know them ALL from the least to the greatest.....Alan ya gotta keep in mind that the sower of that good seed is Christ the bridegroom.....That y he wants to know us.....She brought forth a man child that is gonna rule all nations.....Jesus is gonna be multiplied as the stars of Heaven.....Thus the sower and his precious seed the bridegroom's seed thus a baby Christ.....Thats y he is saying blessed are them that follow me in the REGENERATION.....He is gonna multiply/regenerate himself in humanity via his good seed...Thats y Jeremiah saw all men in travail and birth pains.... Jeremiah 30:6 kjv.....The Child is the H.G. THAT Promise Child.....Behold i send the Promise of my father upon you.
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
Hiya Jema...Remember what Jesus said NO MAN CAN UNTO ME UNLESS THE FATHER THAT HAS SENT ME DRAW HIM.....The written word cannot draw us....Its only the living word Christ Jesus that can draw us.....As my words are spirit and life....Living words not the written word.....Its gotta be a personal relationship, he has to know us in order to sow his incorruptible seed in our hearts that initiates a birth of Christ in us.....Unless you receive the kingdom of God as a lil Child you will in no wise enter there in......They don't call him the bridegroom for nothin....He has a seed to sow in humanity.....Thats y Jeremiah 30:6 kjv....Jeremiah saw all men in travail and Child birth.....The written word is fine but its just answers to the lesser light.....But the living word is the greater light....Jesus said are there not 12 hrs in a day and 12 hrs in a night.....But if we walk in the written word only we are walking in the night.....Thats what happened to Israel they were sola scriptura....written words only.....But they stoned most all of the Prophets and rejected the Christ....Its only the living word the H.G a LIVING BEING that is the greater light....Thats y the New birth is so important....We have to birth that new creature which is the H.G. That Child of Promise....Nothin availeth any thing in Christ Jesus but a new Creature which is our new heart and new spirit...k lemme run....
Hello Michaelantoni. The Hebrew word given for 'witty inventions', is as you've shown, 'mezzimah'. In your study, you would have also found out how that word is used in the other verses. In Proverbs 8:12 that you shared, this Hebrew word implies 'one's power to devise or show discretion'. Hence, the verse could read, 'I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge through the use of discretion.' Or further with that verse, 'I wisdom enjoy good sense, acquiring knowledge by the use of discretion'. And we see the same word, 'mezzimah', with its specific meaning used in Proverbs 1:4, Proverbs 2:11, Proverbs 3:21 & Proverbs 5:2.
And yes, we can see that word being applied towards 'thoughts' ( Jeremiah 23:20); 'intents' ( Jeremiah 30:24); 'device/plan' ( Jeremiah 51:11). And then we see it in 'evil thoughts' ( Psalm 10:4); 'evil schemes' ( Job 21:27); 'lewd/wicked acts' ( Jeremiah 11:15); wicked speech ( Psalm 139:20).
So to understand 'mezzimah', which meaning can be quite diverse, we need to read it as the verse gives it, in its correct context. So 'discretion or one's power to devise' appears to be the primary meaning of 'mezzimah', but how that word is used will give other associated meanings, i.e. whether one's mind works for that which is good & wholesome, or towards evil thoughts & acts. So, I believe we find an agreement here.
The world does not understand that we are now under a new Covenant....That Jesus gave us at Calvary by his blood ... Romans 8:2.....The Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made us free from the law of sin and death....Thats y Jesus was saying if i be lifted up i will draw ALL men unto me.... Jeremiah 31 :34.....I will make a new covenant not according to the old covenant....I will KNOW them All from the least to the greatest.....This KNOW them all is an intimacy that results in Child birth....for every body....Thats y he has to know us ....The Child is the H.G. Thats y Isaiah saw this KNOWLEDGE covering the earth as the waters covering the seas....Its ALL INCLUSIVE....I will pour out of my spirit on all flesh....Thats y Jeremiah saw all men in travail and Child birth... Jeremiah 30:6....And I will stain all my raiment (with his blood ).....There is no fuller on earth that can whiten us like his blood....As we are his raiment.. i was in need of clothin and you clothe me.... Romans 8 :2 for the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made us free from the law of sin and death....Thats y there in no more condemnation to them in Christ Jesus....Tho your sins be as scarlet they shall be white as snow.....Even in the O.T. When i see the blood i will pass over you....And it was all inclusive.....No matter who it was or what they had done.....When i see the blood i will pass over you.....Thus how much greater is this New Covenant by the blood of Jesus....Thus this book that Jesus wrote with his own blood the book of life....That results in a living being born in us....Which is the gift of the H.G. that Child of Promise....A living being the gift of God....Unless you receive the Kingdom of God as a lil CHILD you will in no wise enter there in....k gbu
Plz note the woman in Rev.12:5 had to birth a Child which is the H.G. to lead her into the Kingdom....When he the Spirit of truth is come he will lead you into all truth (the kingdom).....But he cannot speak of himself simply b/c he is just an infant that new born babe desiring the sincere milk of the word...Unless ya receive the Kingdom of God as a lil CHILD impling that heavenly birth a spiritual birth.....As that which is born of the spirit is spirit thats the H.G. the Child of PROMISE....Whosoever receiveth one such child in my name receiveth me...ME....Thats how he will come again by the new birth....We are gona have a baby Christ....Thats y he always refers to himself as the Son of Man....Mankind is gona be married to Christ and bring forth fruit unto God... Romans 7:4....But Satan the dragon wants to destroy the woman and her children....Which are the Children of PROMISE....The multiplication of Christ in humanity via his precious seed the living word which is the contents of the book of life.... Jeremiah 30:6 saw all men in travail and birth pains....Which is that New Covenant that he wrote with his own blood at Calvary.... Jeremiah 31:34 I will KNOW them all from the least to the greatest and their sins and iniquities will i remember no more.
Behold me and the Children the lord has given me are they not for signs and wonders to the Children of Israel....They are an Israel of GOD.....Children that cannot lie so Jesus is their father....Simply b/c they are gona be born in us via his Precious seed....That was the great Promise that Christ wd be multiplied as the stars of heaven....Thus the sower/bridegroom and his seed....The wheat is a baby Christ....Simply b/c Christ is the bridegroom....Jesus said that the good seed are the Children of the Kingdom..... Psalms 8:2 For out of the mouths of babes and sucklings thou has perfected Praise that thou mightest still the enemy....Our carnal minds satans seat....Thus the babes and sucklings he mentions...Our New BORN.
Usually; when we look to scriptures on God's promises; we are looking for His Providence in our individual needs and concerns such as finding a spouse; providing food; clothing and shelter and those basic salvation assurances such as John 3:16 which we have as an anchor to our soul; to quote Hebrews 6:19. We also look to heaven and being reunited with our loved ones; hopefully realizing that only those in Christ will have an eternal future which we would desire to share as 1 Corinthians 15 starting in verse 14 assures us of as a future reality.
Admittedly; there aren't a lot of specific verses as to what exactly we will be doing in the Millennium and eternity. I have elaborated on rewards involving ruling over more or less cities in regard to our faithfulness now; as well the scripture about David once again ruling as co-regent under Christ (see Jeremiah 30:9). The Levites are said to have some sort of role at least in the Millennium; with sacrifices in a new temple mentioned in the last few chapters of Ezekiel.
Perhaps studying Israel as a Theocracy in the past (although certainly not a perfect example) gives us some idea how we will rule and reign with Christ ( Rev. 2:26-27 but also somewhere in the O.T. mentioned as well). Isaiah 66:19-20 shows what the physical survivors will do after Armageddon in reaching distant places gathering them for worship in Jerusalem.
As Resurrected Saints interacting with earthly people; we may need to be in charge of ensuring that ceremonial purification occurs so that those in our presence not to mention in the presence of Christ won't die because of some impurity. It is hard to say how our roles will work with those who are in physical bodies still doing some sort of Temple ritual. We also will probably work out disputes; perhaps initally as a sort of cleanup crew (again with the physical survivors) after the Ezekiel 38 war (likely part of the campaign related to Armageddon).
Jeremiah 30:3
"For, lo, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will bring again the captivity of my people Israel and Judah, saith the LORD: and I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it."
Blessings
One of my arguments against divorce and remarriage while a first spouse is alive is not only seen in the latter half of Matthew 5:32 (whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery); but is also represented in the vow made "for better or worse until death do us part" or something to that affect. Now some have a Pre-Nup that puts financial off ramps; shall we say if things go sour; but no one that I am aware of says "if my spouse commits adultery I can divorce them and marry another" as an exception clause in their vow that I am aware of.
As this is a subject of great debate and a hot topic I am merely going to use it as a building block to prove the cohesion of scripture in regard to conditional terms in relation to God's covenants. In general God is eternal in terms of covenants and binding things remain with the exception of the old covenant of laws with National Israel which the new covenant in Christ has replaced. I would recommend a study of Hebrews 9 on the subject in depth. I would also say that the great haitus as it were between Daniel 9:26-27 separating the 69 weeks from the final "week" of seven years of the Tribulation judgment and Antichrist rule. God still as I see it has plans to fulfill His plan for Israel; in short putting them through the fire in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7); and establishing His rule fulfilling the complete expansion of their borders to originally promised areas (See Psalm 72:8; His dominion from "sea to sea".
Now in terms of this subject in particular we see lets say with a business covenant; for example man's conditions in a written contract that has terms of business transactions and provisions for any violations. There are varying "mission plans" that can be discussed but each party signs off that they understand and agree to these arrangements.
In the next post I plan to look at the church and similar concepts of responsibility of its members.
As stated in the last post there are what I would call "hidden" nuggets referring to the Rapture. Psalm 40 in the beginning is one I have mentioned; another is Zephaniah 2:3. Then there are the precedents of Enoch being translated because He had a close walk with God and Elijah. Jesus of course was the "first of the firstfruits" and the many who came out of their graves after His resurrection was an early gleaning type firstfruits as well ( Matt. 27:52-53).
We are; symbolically the "kings and priests" shown in Revelation 5 and other scriptures. Again it seems at times confusing but verses there discuss being redeemed to allow us to differentiate between angelic beings and people.
One strong point which we probably all agree upon is to focus on the Word; especially in light of heaven. This is how we gain spiritual insight; and it keeps us from myths such as the 3 days of darkness which come from some sort of pagan mysticism that is supposed to occur before the Rapture. Indeed there IS darkness coming during various judgments.
The other point is that the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7) needs to help provoke God's people ( Zech 13:8) who endure until the end through saving faith of that time of trial which the whole WORLD goes through which Revelation 3:10 promises we can as the overcomers in the Godly remnant type church can experience.
Again I have cited verses in Daniel which discuss saints being overcome ( Daniel 7:25 also seen in Revelation 13:7); yet now in the "church age" or dispensation the gates of hell will not prevail against the church ( Matt. 16:18). This means absolute apostasy in Mystery Babylon can't come until we are gone.
In Daniel 9:20 we see Daniel making supplication before the LORD and confessing his sin and the sin of HIS PEOPLE ISRAEL.
"And whiles I was speaking, and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God for the holy mountain of my God;
In Verse 23 we see Gabriel come to give him answers according to his prayer. Daniel 9:23.
In verse 24 he says "Seventy weeks are determined upon THY PEOPLE! ISRAEL!
The great Tribulation is to drive Israel to acknowledge their Saviour.
This is prophesied in Hosea 5:15. "I will go and return to my place, till they acknowledge their offence, and seek my face: in their affliction they will seek me early.
In Matthew 23:38-39 Jesus says "Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.
For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
Israel will be saved out of the tribulation when they call on the name of the Lord.
Jeremiah 30:7 "Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.
The Church will be kept from the HOUR of the tribulation!
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee FROM THE HOUR of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.
FROM THE HOUR of TEMPTATION!
The Church won't be here during this time period!
If the Church is raptured after the Great tribulation and the rest of the world is annihilated who's going to populate the Millenium?
Is the rapture a resurrection? No. Some of this group is alive!
Are those who are alive, then caught up "part" of the first resurrection? Yes.
The first resurrection is better understood as a category rather than a sequence.
Those who are in Christ whether sleep or alive is part of the first Resurrection.
More perhaps later
Blessings.
Luke 1:31-33.
Again, Christ ruling "Jacob" on the throne of David haven't happened yet! Also, that throne did not exist during for Christ ministry here on earth.
What is Important is God confirmed his promises by an oath in Psalms 132:11 The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne. There are many of these promises!
Prophecies pointing to this section of scripture especially the 70 week of Daniel onwards centers around Israel and precisely "JACOB" as this seems to be used often when their rebellious nature is being highlighted. It speaks of "THE PEOPLE" of that nation. JACOB!
This is why it's called the time of Jacobs trouble! Jeremiah 30:7-9.
The Church was never in trouble in this respect.
Ezekiel 37:21-25 cannot apply to the Church. (Just one of many reasons why.)
When examining Ezekiel 36:20-27 we see whose reputation is at stake in keeping these promises. (Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went.)
The Blindness of Israel will be lifted when the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. Then God will focus his attention on Israel.
This is what James is saying in Acts 15:14-16. "Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,
After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up.
He says "AFTER THIS! After what? After God takes out of the Gentiles a people for his name! This is where salvation has went to the Gentiles UNTIL the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
See Part 3
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the remnant of Israel, and such as are escaped of the house of Jacob, shall no more again stay upon him that smote them; but shall stay upon the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth. ( Isaiah 10:20).
Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened. ( Zech 11:17).
Let us be of those who heed the call; likely those in Israel before Antichrist comes into the Temple after the Rapture.
Isaiah 26:20 Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.
and again in Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.
Psalm 31:20 "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues."
There will no doubt be many hidden in the earth; still a small portion of all humanity as most perish at that time. Again we see that God has His purposes: Two-thirds of all the nation of Israel will be cut off and die,[a] but a third will be left in the land. ( Zechariah 13:8); and man will be in general mors scarce than gold as to the few who survive ( Isaiah 13:12).
Today with the famine for the Word of God ( Amos 8:11) we undoubtably will have the literal famine; war and pestilence with the seal judgments or individual precursors very soon. Knowing these scriptures with a proper declaring of His promises is imperative; not worthless words
The preceding versions discuss the diaspora among all nations; and this verse is followed with verse 31
31 (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.
At the end of the Tribulation we read this in Ezekiel 20:37-38
37 And I will cause you to pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant:
38 And I will purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel: and ye shall know that I am the Lord.
Thus we see the final fulfillment of this in Zechariah 13:8 And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. The time of "Jacob's trouble" will accomplish this
as Jeremiah 30:7 states
"Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it."
There are going to be some physical survivors of that time as illustrated in other scriptures. Mark 13:14 "When you see 'the abomination that causes desolation'[a] standing where it[b] does not belong-let the reader understand-then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.
We need to familiarize ourselves with the Word as there are hundreds of relevant scriptures whose ultimate fulfillment is nigh.
God will fulfill His ultimate plans; but it is hard to say what twists and turns will occur; and what the state of our nation will be once the Tribulation begins. I would argue a lot depends on whether we are Babylon the Great.
There is always a remnant saved; we see this here; in Exodus and Revelation 2 and 3.
My last post started referencing the New Testament. Before we get into that we need to discuss the exile and post Babylonian exile as it had a prophetic timeline of 70 years; but a longer prophetic implication in Daniel 9:24-27. This would involve a 69 week (or 69 x 7 year) period until Jesus was martyred (or cut off) which would be a parenthesis; as it were around the church age which is notably absent. Therefore; their consummation and greatest trial is in the time of "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
God had warned ahead of time with the blessings and cursings of Deuteronomy 28-30 (or around there) of the state; even of the last days where there was a conditional sort of situation that would allow for repentance even in the last days and tribulation ( Deut. 4:30). But the diaspora was a state Israel spent the vast majority of its existence especially after the Babylonian invasion. We would see due to their idolotry a judgment where they would be sent in exile and suffer greatly; but God promised to establish them a second time after captivity ( Jeremiah 30:3; and Isaiah 11:11). They will finally realize who the true Messiah is but according to Zechariah not until near the end of the Tribulation (see Isaiah 10:20 also for them recognizing Antichrist isn't their true hope).
In this study in general; we have looked at those individuals who have caused; in a large part their own headaches and troubles and also the prophets who were challenged and ridiculed by their own people when they were faithfully preaching the truth rather than what people by and large wanted to hear. We certainly see the same thing today. Finally there is judgment where there are innocent victims caught up in events who either don't heed ore aren't aware of the warning signs to escape ahead of time. This today involves those who hate Israel and are allied for their destruction; much like what we see in Psalm 83. That is a sort of national persecution.
Revelation 15:1 - And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.
And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up (or completes), the wrath of God.
This is what is known by Jeremiah in Jeremiah 30:7 as the Time of Jacob's Trouble. Also in that verse, Jeremiah says that day is great, so that nothing is like it.
In Daniel 12:1, he says this time will be a time of trouble such as never was here on the earth. This is the seven last plagues. Under the breaking of the seventh seal, we have seven trumpets. And now we have seven bowl judgments. They all are under the seventh seal. The seventh bowl judgment begins at the seventh trumpet.
Revelation 15:2 - And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.
They are standing on the sea of glass. That's this large area that's right before the throne that we saw back in Chapter 4. And they have the harps of God. These again would be the lyres, the guitar like instruments.
Revelation 15:6 - And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles, or sashes. That would be the dress of the high priest. So, these angels have the seven last plagues.
I believe it was Josh McDowell who originally did a study on the death of Christ; along with others who have done medical analysis as to what the crucifixion would have entailed. We have the Shroud of Turin which certainly seems to be the linen that bears Christ's image; explained as to the apparent later date as being material taken as a sample on the outer edges of the garment that were repaired after fire damage in the 1300's.
At present I don't feel it would be edifying or that I am even worthy of doing an analysis of this chapter. The story unfolds in all its graphic detail; fulfilling numerous prophecies; especially poignant to the entire chapter of Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22. It is said that the spiritual suffering of Christ being separated for that moment from the Father was worse than the physical agony but can't be ignored; certainly. Satan is no half hearted foe as to the level of destruction he brings in this hour of darkness (see Luke 22:53). God allowed him to bring forth the circumstances leading to His death; Jesus still gave up the ghost when the work was done in saying "it is finished" ( John 19:30). Once again when the "restrainer" is removed from the earth ( 2 Thess. 2:6-8) the powers of evil will have full control for a short time ( Daniel 8:24).
Matthew 28-The Resurrection
Jesus of course came back to life early Sunday morning which we celebrate this week. Hallelujia and Maranatha (Lord come soon). It is hard to fathom how I could live until 18 years old and not know the Lord as I have for the last 42 years. The Gospels are clear that even with one raising from the dead wicked people won't believe (as illustrated in the Parable of the rich man in hell). The nation of Israel still largely is blind until the time the Lord has set for Jacob's trouble. Jeremiah 30:7 says: Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.
Me being a member at West Angeles Cogic Church Cathedral Los Angeles California
I Pray thanking God for his steadfast faithfulness in my life.
Lamentations 3:22 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" God's mercy to all the world reassures Affirmation of Faith. God wanting to save you." A refrence example scripture Jeremiah 30:11 KJV. "For the Lord is good Psalms 100:5 KJV."
Principle Holy: To all religions. Always performaning righteousness, holiness in actions "to do it" of God. To have faith, hope, love."
Lamentations 3:23 KJV
My Interpetation REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY:
" God is always there for you everyday." Surety amd Savior to his people. The Bible to be the Inspired and only infallible written Word of God.
Word Spoken and Written by REDAPPLETREATY4MEONLY
Ezra 3:11 And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
Jeremiah 30:18-24 Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof. And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small. Their children also shall be as aforetime, and their congregation shall be established before me, and I will punish all that oppress them. And their nobles shall be of themselves, and their governor shall proceed from the midst of them; and I will cause him to draw near, and he shall approach unto me: for who is this that engaged his heart to approach unto me? saith the LORD. And ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. Behold, the whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it shall fall with pain upon the head of the wicked. The fierce anger of the LORD shall not return, until he have done it, and until he have performed the intents of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it.
Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh."
A quick overview of the entire chapter of Ezekiel 36 shows that the meaning is primarily in the exodus and eventual regathering of God's people. When we get into a couple chapters later we enter the Ezekiel 38 war which continues showing the fate of nations that fight against Israel. This verse also is used to demonstrate the change in each believer's state; as opposed to the condition mentioned in Jeremiah 17:9 on how deceitful and wicked man's unregenerate heart nature is.
The principle involved in the nation of Israel repenting is found in this verse: Romans 11:25
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
The Lord will therefore use the time of "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7) to put the Jews through the fire; and at that time 2/3 will perish and 1/3 make it through ( Zechariah 13:8) which signifies the refining fire. Naturally this is preceded by the arrival of the false messiah who will be venerated by many until the time mentioned in Isaiah 10:20 which would be at the midpoint of the Tribulation.
The new covenant mentioned in Jeremiah 31:31 and the next several verses after also could be applied to that which Christ accomplished for those in the church (or church age). It's final fruition will finally reach Israel who rejected the first coming of their king because they didn't recognize Him as the suffering servant; and or assumed He would immediately overtake their enemies and start an earthly Kingdom.
In general I would state that every age or dispensation has a similar fate; a beginning and end. Israel had several Diasporas and in the last days the church in general will fall away.
Starting in verses 1-3 we read:
1Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? 2The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying, 3Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.
This prayer is basically synonymous with Revelation 19; and a host of other prophecies related to Christ's return in victory to rule and reign over the earth. The Tribulation itself begins just 7 years earlier with the Daniel 9:27 covenant "with many". The covenant with "death and hell" ( Isaiah 28:15 describing what the authors of this contract themselves proclaim at its inception).
It appears that the world may very well praise God if we take the verses in Revelation 5:3 literally. Once we get to the sixth seal in Revelation 6:12-15 we see men running from God's judgment; but after the Revelation 13 beast rises up and the False Prophet does his thing the world will take their mark of allegiance and in the end will be deceived by the 3 demons ( Rev. 16:13) and decide to fight against the Lord. That will be a consummation of a number of battles; not the least of which is the Ezekiel 38 war where everyone meets at Meddigo; probably beginning to fight one another; then turning on each other and fighting Christ.
Moving on; verses 4-7 say: He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.
5Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
6Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.
7I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
Trying to focus this as it applied to David's understanding of what was a clearly prophetic message; we see how David was a sort of forerunner of the Messiah who would indeed be victorious over His foes and rule and reign. David is promised to rule with Him as well ( Jeremiah 30:9).
I may have touched on specific examples of prayers that I have seen answered. The clear teaching from James is that we shouldn't focus on things to satisfy our own "lusts" ( James 4:3). Another specific prayer that we need to be cautious with is praying for any individual to be saved. This is likely to elicit a hotbed of controversy in regard to those who are called; chosen and predestined. But it shows PRESUMPTION; that our desire for someone's spiritual fate must line up with God's plans. Whether we follow this viewpoint or not; we simply do not know whether someone is going to respond to the message of salvation or not.
What we CAN do in this case is ask for God to show favor so that a person is able to hear about the Gospel from other individuals; as well as have circumstances come up that force them to think on spiritual things. Another problem is that short term we tend to be impatient rather than waiting on God's timing; allowing difficult trials to do their work; or thinking we have to be the ones to be used by God to convert someone. If we obsess too much on those we know and love; of course we can be ignoring those who in the flesh we either wouldn't consider or we find repulsive; not thinking in terms of how God would transform someone and they would become part of our family in Christ as adopted sons or daughters.
Anyway; back to general prayers. Many pray for the "peace of Israel" ( Psalm 122:6) but without realizing the prophetic plans God has in the time of Jacob's trouble ( Jeremiah 30:7) we can only see a temporary fix with such a prayer. When we pray for everyone to be healed we surely can't ignore scriptures even in the time of Paul the Apostle which indicated that indeed people would become ill. And in terms of a general praise and such; it is a prelude to prayer in order to demonstrate how we are getting to know Christ and vice verse and alone isn't a prayer per se.
INTRODUCTION
I am going to continue with the second through the fourth seal of Revelation here. My purpose is not to nit pick about every time death occurs because of man's weapons of war or whether it is by other means. The overall emphasis is to show how all the future events are ultimately controlled by the Lord and in a sense "choreographed" that way. Indeed; whatever the means surely the time of Jacob's trouble will be like no other in terms of the level of destruction on the earth. ( Jeremiah 30:7; Matt. 24:21).
Since this is the case; we can't just look at statistics here to determine how awful things will be. That is clear from seeing that just EIGHT souls were saved on Noah's ark. Clearly there are many more than that; albeit a small percent of the earth at large that survives to repopulate in the Millennium. The demonic release "en masse" from the bottomless pit and probably other places in the underworld is what makes it so horrible as they will clearly be tormenting men by the 5th Trumpet. The giant hybrids of Noah's day were destroyed but we never saw a time of such horrible devastation by agents of evil as is to come.
War famine and pestilence
Deuteronomy 32:24-25 states: I will send wasting famine against them, consuming pestilence and deadly plague;
I will send against them the fangs of wild beasts, the venom of vipers that glide in the dust.
25 In the street the sword will make them childless; in their homes terror will reign.
These themes of war; famine and pestilence are rife throughout the Old Testament in Ezekiel; and several passages in Jeremiah along with the solemn warnings of Matthew 24 and of course Revelation which we are discussing now. (also see Luke 21:11).
God has judged this way as we see from the passages in Jeremiah in the past in order to take vengeance on the idolatry of Israel. The same thing will happen again.
"For I am with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished." Jeremiah 30:11 KJV
Here we have clear prophesy of nations that resisted God and his word. He shall make a full end of them.
In the midst of doom and gloom the promise of God to Abraham shall find its fulfillment. "And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed."( Ge.12:3) God is rewarding at that point for his faith. It is in the 'now' and he Abram. "Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee" He believed God and his faith had to be of sterner stuff and 'the land that I will shew thee' was according to the time God had set. It is the key to the significance of the name Abraham. As Father of many nations he is a stand-in for his Son who He will send in the fulness of time. Faith is 'the sum total' or the substance that faith holds of "the evidence of things not seen". So he would and as the writer to the Hebrews say, he " obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went./ By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise/ For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God."(11:8-10). Now of Abraham was locked in with that of God so faith is not in the matter of time, place but the characteristic of holiness evident in the Son. Thus his faith was counted unto him for righteousness."And he believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness."(Ge.15:6)
The great tribulation ( Matthew 24:21)
The Day of the Lord ( Isaiah 2:12; 13:6-9; Joel 1:15; 2:1-31; 3:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:2)
Trouble or tribulation ( Deuteronomy 4:30)
The time of Jacob's troubles ( Jeremiah 30:7)
Toward the end of Daniel's life, he has a vision described in Daniel 12.
"At that time Michael shall stand up, the great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, every one who is found written in the book. And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever."- Daniel 12:1-3
From this passage, we know that
Unprecedented, troubling times are on the way.
There will be some who will awake to "everlasting life."
There will be some who will awake to "shame and everlasting contempt."
Those who are wise will shine.
A further study of this passage and the 7-year tribulation reveals more about the troubling times and who will awake to everlasting life and who will awake to everlasting contempt.
Everlasting life is given by those who trust in Jesus for their salvation.
Everlasting contempt is given to those who do not trust Jesus.
I have in other posts described why the Rapture is going to occur. It fulfills scriptures such as Malachi 3:16 in the book of remembrance of those who OFTEN talk about the Lord and it is to reward those who patiently wait for His coming ( James 1:12 and other supporting text). My commentary also discussed how it is for the reunion of all the saints; past and present at the Lord's feet; and for us to be presented in the church as "kings and priests" who will rule and reign with Him ( Rev. 5:10). We are the armies of heaven who will eventually return with Christ in Revelation 19:14; and be accompanied by angels as well.
Psalm 40:3 shows how many shall see and fear us being lifted up from the miry clay (verses 1-2). The provoking of the Jews to jealousy ( Romans 11:14) perhaps will occur when the times of the Gentiles are full ( Romans 11:25). In any event the time of Jacob's trouble is specifically for the week of testing for seven years ( Jeremiah 30:7; Daniel 9:26-27) which is also known as Daniel's 70th week.
Let us assume for a moment that the Rapture IS going to happen before the end of this year for instance. How many are ready for His coming? How many have their garments unspotted and unwrinkled ( Eph. 5:27). I have mentioned before that whether people believe the Rapture is Pretribulation or some other later date; it is the fruit of our lives that is most important. A theoretical concept won't keep those away who are true servants of the Master; but I guarantee those who are espousing a PreTrib Rapture but whose lives are not according to His will will by and large be shocked in many cases being left behind. Whether all these people never believed inthe first place or the Rapture is a reward issue; surely a great multitude will be saved but die as martyrs in the Tribulation ( Rev. 7:9). That is the purpose for the Tribulation for God's children; along with gathering the unregenerate for destruction.
When we see Matthew 10 and compare it with Luke 10 we see some differences. Those in Matthew 10 were told only to go the lost sheep of the house of Israel ( Matthew 10:6). Such was NOT the case with the 72 in Luke's account. We see there is no return mentioned of the Disciples as was with the 72 in Luke 10:17. The same cities were rebuked in Matthew 11:17 as they are in Luke 10:13-15. (incidentally these cities were rebuked BEFORE the Disciples retuned which also signifies their lack of belief in the miracles of Christ Himself if not implying their lack of response to the Gospel and miracles the Disciples and 72 performed in both Gospel accounts).
When we look at Matthew 10 we see far implications; persecutions; being hated by all nations for His Name's sake; going to trial with kings and rulers and finally verses in verse 22:23. "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come." This is a clear indication of the Tribulation as indeed this refers to the Second Coming. It is notable today that one cannot be a citizen of Israel if declaring themselves to be a Christian. The only other option here is to somehow imply the Lord came already as a Full Preterist viewpoint which says somehow Christ already returned in AD 70. The implications here are not only for the Disciples but all those who are going to suffer persecution for His Name's sake; perhaps particularly but not only related to the cities of Israel. Also the 144,000 and 2 Prophets would also be something bringing the climax and greatest challenge for Israel ever seen in the time of "Jacob's Trouble". ( Jeremiah 30:7). God promises deliverance eventually; by death or Rapture or Resurrection.
Agape.
My earlier segment started discussion on the concept of the state of a soul determining the experience of the time in the Tribulation. Thus; the sufferings that the 144,000 go through (possibly allegorically stated in Matthew 25:36-40) would be still better than that of the unregenerate. They are protected from the judgments during much of the trumpet judgments because of the seal of God ( Rev. 7:3); although subject to imprisonment; famine and thirst. They will be given endurance whether living or dying (can't clearly tell) until they appear before God ( Rev. 7:16). The rest of the world; however by the sixth seal will be terrified ( Rev. 6:12-17). Contrast this with the state of the two prophets in Rev. 11:1-14. Death is swift and there is no fear of what comes thereafter for the saved; for the lost there is of course no peace ( Isaiah 57:21).
I am not attempting to minimize the appalling conditions which come by the unsealing of the seals by Jesus Himself for anyone; but am stating that our spiritual condition determines if we are in terror of God; or are a centerpiece of displaying His glory despite going through the fire at the time of Jacob's sorrow (see Jeremiah 30:7 and surrounding verses for that description).
Now; going back to the Rapture and Resurrection event at or near the first seal event. Matthew 25:1 COULD be thought of as representing those who are either not walking in the Spirit or unsaved. A key verse is at the end in verse 12. Does it mean Christ doesn't KNOW us intimately (know you not) mean the same thing as Matt. 7:21-23 where He NEVER knew us; or could it signify a church like the Ephesians who forget their first love ( Rev. 2:4)? Other interpretations exist-we will leave it there.
No matter who misses the Rapture and is left behind it seems clear is too late to be part of the Bride of Christ ( Eph. 5:27). Nonetheless there will be the final revival in that time ( Rev. 7:9).
The chapters 30 to 33 in Jeremiah are God's Words to His people (Israel & Judah) giving them His Promise & certain hope for their future restoration back to their lands. Some consider these chapters as applying to their recovery from the Assyrian & Babylonian captivity (in which they were in at the time), but verses such as Jeremiah 30:3,7,10,11 & others seem to indicate that all of Israel will return to their land of promise, & not just the 'few' who came out of the present captivity. The mention of the 'terrible day, none ever like it, even the time of Jacob's trouble, but Israel will come out of it', indicates that there is still salvation & hope for Israel even after going through the coming time of Great Tribulation.
Then chapter 31 continues this theme of restoration for Israel; with verses 1 to 22 concerning the Northern Kingdom (Israel); verses 23 to 26 the Southern Kingdom (Judah); and verses 27 to 40 to both Kingdoms.
So to Jeremiah 31:23-34 (your passage), the message is first to Judah & then God establishes His New Covenant with both houses (from verse 27). To Judah, God tells them that they will know His blessing on Jerusalem (Mt. Zion) where justice & holiness abounds (v23); & the people will thrive in food production (vv24,25). And so to, the New Covenant which still awaits enforcement, vv27-34 and other verses beyond, gives God's Assurance that both man & animals will abound, that He will prosper them & not afflict & destroy them as before, & they will realize that each one is accountable & punishable for their own sins & not blame their fathers (the meaning of verses 29 & 30). That future day, Israel will have God's Laws written upon their hearts (v33), i.e. they will be changed inwardly & not just giving lip-service as previously and all will truly know intimately their God & not a conditional-based Covenant of the old Mosaic Law. Hope that gives you an adequate outline.
In general; there is a set series of events that are going to consume the time period known as "Jacob's trouble" ( Jeremiah 30:7).
The incense of the prayers of the saints which encompass the initial scene in Revelation 5:8 prior to the seal judgments; and Revelation 8:3-4 (in that case before the Trumpet Judgments) show a sort of collective mass of prayers; either reflecting directly the persecutions on the earth at the time; or answering Millennia old prayers of saints long since forgotten by man; but held by God. (see Psalm 56:8).
Because of this; we see a difference in prophetic utterances such as Acts 21:10; and Acts 11:27-28. Such utterances indicate that the choices made (i.e. Paul heading straight to Jerusalem; preparing for a famine) certainly make these things conditional.
In Revelation it is generally structured indicating great events with associated signs and wonders that are already designed and predicted in detail. However; as with anything else there is latitude apparently for the two prophets to cause things as they wish in regard to droughts; etc. ( Rev. 11:6). Undoubtably some details are not straightforward (such as which part of the world the 1/4 die in the seal judgments). Safe to say it ain't going to be a fun time here on planet earth; that's for sure.
Looking at the Second Coming of Christ; no doubt great deception will occur with multitudes of false prophets at the time of the end. Antichrist Himself will basically act as a substitute for Christ; and will be the only man other than Judas Iscariot to be doomed to perdition. ( John 17:12; 2 Thess. 2:3). God will use him to make rulers agree to submit to his authority; as well as destroying the false "Mystery Babylon" which encompasses all the world's false religions sort of rolled into one. ( Revelation 18:17).
There are suspect individuals that certainly match many characteristics of such an individual. More in next post.
And yes, we can see that word being applied towards 'thoughts' ( Jeremiah 23:20); 'intents' ( Jeremiah 30:24); 'device/plan' ( Jeremiah 51:11). And then we see it in 'evil thoughts' ( Psalm 10:4); 'evil schemes' ( Job 21:27); 'lewd/wicked acts' ( Jeremiah 11:15); wicked speech ( Psalm 139:20).
So to understand 'mezzimah', which meaning can be quite diverse, we need to read it as the verse gives it, in its correct context. So 'discretion or one's power to devise' appears to be the primary meaning of 'mezzimah', but how that word is used will give other associated meanings, i.e. whether one's mind works for that which is good & wholesome, or towards evil thoughts & acts. So, I believe we find an agreement here.
Behold me and the Children the lord has given me are they not for signs and wonders to the Children of Israel....They are an Israel of GOD.....Children that cannot lie so Jesus is their father....Simply b/c they are gona be born in us via his Precious seed....That was the great Promise that Christ wd be multiplied as the stars of heaven....Thus the sower/bridegroom and his seed....The wheat is a baby Christ....Simply b/c Christ is the bridegroom....Jesus said that the good seed are the Children of the Kingdom..... Psalms 8:2 For out of the mouths of babes and sucklings thou has perfected Praise that thou mightest still the enemy....Our carnal minds satans seat....Thus the babes and sucklings he mentions...Our New BORN.
Admittedly; there aren't a lot of specific verses as to what exactly we will be doing in the Millennium and eternity. I have elaborated on rewards involving ruling over more or less cities in regard to our faithfulness now; as well the scripture about David once again ruling as co-regent under Christ (see Jeremiah 30:9). The Levites are said to have some sort of role at least in the Millennium; with sacrifices in a new temple mentioned in the last few chapters of Ezekiel.
Perhaps studying Israel as a Theocracy in the past (although certainly not a perfect example) gives us some idea how we will rule and reign with Christ ( Rev. 2:26-27 but also somewhere in the O.T. mentioned as well). Isaiah 66:19-20 shows what the physical survivors will do after Armageddon in reaching distant places gathering them for worship in Jerusalem.
As Resurrected Saints interacting with earthly people; we may need to be in charge of ensuring that ceremonial purification occurs so that those in our presence not to mention in the presence of Christ won't die because of some impurity. It is hard to say how our roles will work with those who are in physical bodies still doing some sort of Temple ritual. We also will probably work out disputes; perhaps initally as a sort of cleanup crew (again with the physical survivors) after the Ezekiel 38 war (likely part of the campaign related to Armageddon).