What will and what has happened according to Jesus!
General Idea of Matthew 24: 1-28, Part 1
This is part one of a several part study as a prelude into The Book of Revelation. It is essential we understand the events that are to come and not bow to false teachings or sensationalism, and the best way to do that is see what our Lord Jesus Christ taught on the matter.
Wherever the truth may lie, or to whatever view you subscribe, the particulars are not important; that is why they are not given to us! What is important is to believe in Christ, hold on to Him, and be confident in Him. It is all about our faith development and our diligence in obedience—diligence in knowing He is coming; how, where, and when are irrelevant.
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part I
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part II
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part III
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part IV
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part V
Exegetical look at Matthew 24, Part VI
The study of eschatology is important, but, compared to issues such as prayer, Bible study, who Christ is, basic doctrine, faith development, living in the Spirit, and growing in character and service to our neighbors and people in need, it really is not that important for us to know or to teach! Do you agree or disagree, and why? (It is OK to disagree with non essential doctrine, as long as we do not divide over it!)
The debates as to when and how are irrelevant; what is important is, we know it will occur. We are to be watchful and discerning that people do not deceive us falsely and that we do not give into despair when things get really tough. We are also to make sure we do not become complacent and ignore the signs, or we will be unable to flee them. Stress and tribulation will produce either panic or perseverance; this result can be in your control by surrendering yourself to His control! The possibilities are His also, even when we do not see them!
Do not be distracted from that to which Christ has called you! Do not waste your time in the particulars of eschatology; it really is not important.
What can you do to make sure you are not distracted by theological trivialities that may seem fun to learn and investigate (and they are), but deter you from what Christ has called you to do?
We can focus on what we can agree: In Jesus, His coming and His victory!
AMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is what it is all about! Be Blessed!
Twenty twelve; a significant year.
In Ezekiel 4:4-6, we are given the number of years that God decreed for the exile of the House of Israel and the House of Judah. 390 years for Israel and 40 for Judah, but then in Leviticus 26:18, it states if they still fail to keep the Commandments, the Lord will increase the punishments, firstly for Israel by seven times. Then in verse 21, also increase Israel’s calamities by seven times. [civil wars, black death, etc]
For Judah – Leviticus 26:23-45 says that they will receive seven times seven extra punishment and exile. This passage describes quite well the history and current status of the Jewish people.
The Northern ten tribes of Israel were conquered by King Shalmanasser in 722BC. He took a large number of captives back to Assyria, including 200,000 Jewish prisoners, according to Assyrian records. The King’s library of cuneiform tablets, in Nineveh, inform us that Shalmanassar died in 720BC and was succeeded by King Sargon 2. Sargon took his army again to that important area of the Middle East and defeated a Philistine army in 719BC. He returned home with these captives, as well as the final remainder of the Israelites.
Now, if we multiply 390 X 7 = 2730, then 719 + 2730 – 1 = 2012. Minus one for no year zero. Therefore this year is the last year decreed for the exile and dispersion of the ten tribes of Israel, they will be able to return to their heritage in 2013. How this will happen is prophesied over 40 times, as the second Exodus.
For further information, look at http://www.logostelos.info
Bruce McKerras