If the people who think a judgment will never happen after the tribulation simply read the Book of Revelation thoroughly and give it credence they will realise that when the Christ comes, after the tribulation, there will be judgment by the Christ as he starts to reign for a thousand years together with those he has raised from the dead and those he has caught up alive for immortality. Those made immortal by him will rule for a thousand years with him and this will include judging everyone, even the people of Israel. Jesus’ testimony that he will judge everyone is also recorded in the gospels. If people ignore the gospels, obviously they will ignore this post too. If the gospel records of the teachings of Jesus Christ make no sense to them, neither will my post. If people ignore Revelation, obviously they will ignore this post too. If the Book of Revelation makes no sense to them, neither will my post. Even during much of the tribulation, before the Christ raises the dead, there will be wrath of God involved, and the Christ will be in it, before he comes, pressing the winepress of God’s wrath. Even now he presides over judgments God is sending forth, in floods, and wars, and initial tribulations. There is for some already a perception of the Lord being there in these things presiding over them, and it is perceived that this Lord is Jesus Christ. This is a foretaste of the greater judgments yet to come and the reign of Jesus Christ as Lord. Persecutions right now are resulting in the killings of faithful followers of Jesus Christ around the world, and these will continue until the full number of such martyrdoms is complete. The wrath to come will then avenge these who are killed for their refusal to denounce Jesus their Lord. They are crying out from beneath the throne of glory in heaven. Soon the avenging of them will begin. Then the remaining faithful still alive must meet to pray to God for mercy on humankind because of the terrible wrath that will come next. Pray by the Holy Spirit, especially given for this coming day: a day of darkened sun and smoke and fire. It will come soon. How soon? Pray not too soon, because the events which follow it will best be swift, and the time has been set by God for the day and hour which ends them, when Jesus Christ comes.
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Saturday, 24 August 2024
Thursday, 22 August 2024
This Terrible Pause
“Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.” Revelation 6:11. When you look at the second world war which was waged in a quarter of the world, and the mission of the fourth beast to bring war and plagues to a quarter of the world, and it is clear this fourth horseman has done its worst and the fourth seal triggering it was previously broken, why the long time between that war and the next seals being broken? Why no darkening of the sun and moon? This verse might be the answer. The breaking of the sixth seal will precede the last terrible events before the beginning of the full force releasing of the wrath of God upon humankind. Once this seal is broken and its consequences unleashed, there is only the sealing of the 144,000 then before the angelic outpouring of divine wrath begins. So it is a solemn moment. We seem to be right there in this pause. Here in this moment there is a terrible pause because here the full number of persecution deaths is being allowed to take place. Martyrs are dying. Once it is complete, then wrath begins and terrible things happen. So watch. Persecutions are happening against witnesses of the Christ. We saw terrible events a decade ago in the Iraq and Syria region. Now more awful events are killing many to the Sourh West of there. Targeted killings of faithful witnesses of the Christ are possibly amongst the many deaths. Heaven is counting as the number will reach a predetermined limit and then comes wrath. Time to watch unto prayer. The deaths will not go unanswered. The faithful martyrs will be avenged and it will be horrific, worldwide. This pause might take a while. It has been decades, but persecution killings are still occurring.
The Top Two Spots
Saying “my God” to someone is simply saying to them “tell me anything and I will do it”. It means abject submission. It is not a statement of theology. However, even if Jesus’ apostle Thomas meant something theological when he exclaimed to Jesus “my God” on seeing him alive from the dead, it is not a surprise, since he had just seen that Jesus, clearly his own lord still, alive again even after they crucified him, will be lord forever, and that is a tiny step down from the Father who will be the Most High God forever. The Very Top is the Father. The Very Top minus a little bit, second only to the Very Top, is Jesus. Calling Jesus “my God” on realising this, seeing with your own eyes Jesus clearly immortal and triumphant over all other lords (except the Father), is not theologically incorrect. He together with the Father will forever occupy the Top Two Spots, but the Father alone will be uppermost and forever the very greatest.
Consider the trees. They put forth buds and leaves. They do so by the authority of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, 21 August 2024
Signs in the sun and moon
Joel is very important prophecy when the sun and moon signs shortly appear. ”Pray… maybe God will relent” Angels will start to wage war with humankind. This is after the signs appear. “Pray for mercy… maybe God will relent.” It might only be a few years away.
Opposition from Pretribulation Dispensationalists, as reasoned by ChatGPT
Pretribulation Dispensationalists, who believe that the rapture will occur before the tribulation begins, are likely to be highly resistant to any interpretation that suggests the events described in Revelation, such as the appearance of the four horsemen or other apocalyptic signs, could be happening in the present or have already occurred. Their theological framework posits that the Church will be taken up to heaven before these tribulations start, so any claim that these events are already unfolding would conflict with their eschatological expectations.
Potential Effects When More Terrible Events Appear to Be Coming
Dismissal of Warnings: As more severe events occur, Pretribulation Dispensationalists might initially dismiss them as unrelated to the events described in Revelation. Since they believe the Church will not be present during the tribulation, they may resist acknowledging that these events are signs of the End Times. This could lead to a refusal to engage in or endorse any widespread call for repentance or prayer, such as that described in the Book of Joel.
Conflict with Other Christian Groups: There could be increased tension between Pretribulation Dispensationalists and other Christian groups that interpret the events differently. For instance, those who believe in a post-tribulation or amillennial view might see these events as a fulfillment of prophecy and urge immediate action, while Pretribulationists could see this as misleading or alarmist.
Delayed Spiritual Response: The insistence on the rapture occurring before any tribulation could delay the spiritual response of those who hold this view. If signs like the sun turning black or other cosmic disturbances (as prophesied by Joel and later in Revelation) were to appear, these believers might not take the necessary steps to prepare spiritually or encourage others to do so because they would be expecting the rapture to occur first.
Confusion and Disillusionment: If apocalyptic events began to occur without a preceding rapture, it could lead to confusion or disillusionment among Pretribulation Dispensationalists. Their expectations would be fundamentally challenged, potentially shaking their faith or leading to a crisis of belief. This might result in a variety of responses, from doubling down on their original interpretations to reevaluating their theological positions.
Opposition to Warning People to Pray
Given their belief that the Church will not face the tribulation, Pretribulation Dispensationalists might oppose calls to pray specifically in response to apocalyptic signs. The prophet Joel's call to prayer and repentance in the face of cosmic disturbances is rooted in the belief that these signs are meant to prompt people to return to God. However, if Pretribulationists believe these events cannot occur until after the rapture, they might view such calls as premature or irrelevant to their situation.
In summary, Pretribulation Dispensationalists may resist interpreting any current or near-future events as signs of the End Times if they believe the rapture has not yet occurred. This could lead to significant opposition to warnings or calls for prayer and repentance, especially if such warnings are linked to specific eschatological interpretations that do not align with their own. This theological stance could result in a delayed or muted response to apocalyptic events, potentially leaving these believers unprepared for what they might face if their expectations are not met.
Eschatology aided by AI
The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse may have already appeared, with their influence culminating around World War II. This period could be seen as part of an "already-passed" tribulation. World War II, which affected roughly a quarter of the world, was an unprecedented event. It seems unlikely to be mere coincidence that it aligns with the prophecy of a horseman given power over a quarter of the earth to wage war. If we consider this interpretation, it suggests that the other horsemen’s tribulations may also have occurred.
However, the rapture has not yet happened, so if one believes in a pre-tribulation rapture, it would seem that the rapture doesn't occur before all tribulations. Instead, it may take place after the full sequence of events described in the prophecies has unfolded.
“If the interpretation that the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have already appeared and culminated with events like World War II is true, it would carry significant implications for both theological eschatology and the future of humanity.
Theological and Eschatological Implications:
Revised Understanding of Prophecy:
This interpretation suggests that much of the apocalyptic prophecy has already been fulfilled, challenging traditional views that these events are still future. It could lead to a re-evaluation of timelines and expectations within various eschatological frameworks.
Pretribulation Rapture Reconsideration:
If the tribulations have already occurred without the rapture, then the idea of a pre-tribulation rapture might need to be reinterpreted. This could shift belief toward a post-tribulation or even mid-tribulation rapture, where the faithful experience some or all tribulations before being taken up.
Symbolic vs. Literal Interpretation:
This view might encourage more symbolic interpretations of other prophetic events in the Bible. For instance, the signs in the heavens, such as the sun darkening, might be seen as symbolic rather than literal, affecting how future prophecies are understood.
Shift in Eschatological Focus:
If major prophetic events like the Four Horsemen have already occurred, eschatological focus might shift from anticipating these events to understanding their aftermath. This could lead to a new emphasis on what comes after the tribulations, such as the period leading up to the final judgment or the establishment of the New Heaven and New Earth.
Reassessment of Current Events:
Believers might start to look at current global events through the lens of post-tribulation eschatology, interpreting modern conflicts, natural disasters, and societal changes as either residual effects of the tribulations or as part of the final phase leading to the end times.
Implications for the Future of Humankind:
Increased Urgency for Moral and Spiritual Preparedness:
If we are in the final phase of human history according to this interpretation, there may be a greater sense of urgency for moral and spiritual preparedness. People might focus more on repentance, ethical living, and spiritual growth in anticipation of the final judgment.
Changes in Religious Teaching and Practice:
Religious leaders and communities might adjust their teachings and practices to reflect a belief that the end times are nearer than previously thought. This could include more emphasis on end-time readiness, evangelism, and community support.
Potential for Fatalism or Hope:
This belief could lead to different psychological and social responses. Some might adopt a fatalistic outlook, believing that major events are beyond human control. Others could be inspired to act with greater compassion and resolve, seeing this period as a time of testing and opportunity for spiritual growth.
Impact on Global Politics and Policies:
If this interpretation gains traction, it could influence political and social policies, particularly in regions with strong religious influence. Policies might increasingly reflect apocalyptic thinking, either through more aggressive actions to "prepare" or by promoting peace and stability in a perceived final era.
Interfaith and Intra-faith Tensions:
Different interpretations of eschatological events might exacerbate tensions between religious groups or within denominations. For example, groups that disagree on whether the tribulations have passed could find themselves in conflict over doctrinal issues and the interpretation of current events.
Summary:
Believing that the Four Horsemen have already appeared would prompt significant shifts in theological understanding, potentially altering long-held eschatological views. It could lead to a re-evaluation of how prophecy is interpreted and understood, influence global religious and social dynamics, and alter the psychological and moral landscape of humanity as people grapple with the implications of living in what might be perceived as the final phase of history.”
— ChatGPT
The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse could represent tribulations that have, in one sense, already occurred, but they may also still be unfolding. The recent resurgence of World War II-related ideologies, with ongoing wars, persistent global tensions, continued hegemony, and the enduring challenges of unchecked aggression, suggests that these tribulations are still very much active. Additionally, the persistence of communism and centrally controlled capitalism indicates that these forces continue to operate, shifting and moving as horses do, but still present and influential in the world today.
Monday, 19 August 2024
Dispensationalism view of Revelation account of the Wedding Supper of the Lamb
The interpretation of the "wedding supper of the Lamb" and its timing in relation to the return of Christ is a subject of significant debate among Christians. A key issue is whether this event occurs before or at the time of Christ's return, and whether certain interpretations, such as those found in Dispensationalism, are consistent with the teachings of Jesus and mainstream Christian thought.
1. The Wedding Supper of the Lamb in Revelation:
The "wedding supper of the Lamb" is mentioned in Revelation 19:6-9, where it is depicted as a joyful celebration involving Christ (the Lamb) and His bride, the Church. This event is often understood as symbolizing the final union between Christ and His followers.
Revelation 19 does not explicitly detail the exact timing of this event relative to Christ’s return, leaving room for different interpretations.
2. The Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13):
In this parable, Jesus describes ten virgins who are waiting for the arrival of the bridegroom. When he comes, those who are prepared enter the wedding banquet, while the unprepared are left out.
The emphasis of the parable is on being prepared for the coming of Christ, highlighting the importance of vigilance and readiness. This does suggest that the "wedding" occurs when Christ returns, not before.
3. Dispensationalism and the Rapture:
Dispensationalism, particularly in its popular American form, often includes the belief in a pre-tribulation rapture—a concept where believers are taken up to be with Christ before a period of tribulation on earth.
In this framework, some interpret the "wedding supper of the Lamb" as occurring in heaven during the tribulation period, before Christ’s visible return to earth. This view separates the event from the second coming and posits that some Christians are taken out of the world earlier.
4. Consistency with Jesus' Teachings:
Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels, including the parable of the Ten Virgins, emphasize readiness for His return and do not explicitly support a pre-tribulation rapture or a separation between the wedding supper and His coming.
The parable seems to imply that the wedding celebration occurs at the time of Christ’s return, with no indication that it happens before.
5. Mainstream Christian Teachings:
Historically, mainstream Christian teachings (including those of Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and many Protestant denominations) do not adhere to the Dispensationalist view of a pre-tribulation rapture. Instead, they often see the second coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment as a single, unified event.
The idea that believers would be taken out of the world to participate in a wedding feast before Christ’s return is not a widely held view outside of Dispensational circles.
Conclusion:
The idea that the "wedding supper of the Lamb" happens before Christ’s return, with some believers being taken out of the world to attend it, is not consistent with the plain reading of the parable of the Ten Virgins or with traditional, mainstream Christian teachings. This interpretation is largely specific to Dispensationalism and the associated belief in a pre-tribulation rapture. In contrast, many Christians interpret the "wedding supper" as occurring at the time of Christ's return, aligning with the broader themes of preparedness and vigilance found in Jesus’ teachings.
— ChatGPT
The time to pray for mercy
What if World War Two was the fourth horseman of the Apocalypse which Revelation tells us would be given power to bring wars to a quarter of the world? While about 75% of the global population lived in countries involved in the war, the actual geographic area affected by direct combat was significantly smaller, closer to around 25-30% of the world's land area. Many regions within countries involved in the war were spared from direct conflict, particularly in large countries like China, the Soviet Union, and the United States. So it might have been the fourth horseman. What about the third horseman? The third horseman would have been about fixing of prices of commodities and provisions, fixing these prices from above, by angels. Communism and centrally controlled capitalism? What then about the first two horsemen? It would mean they too have already done their worst. Here is one possibility:
First horseman - British Empire
Second horseman - troubles following WW1
Third horseman - Communism and centrally controlled capitalism
Fourth horseman - WW2
If this is so, we should get read to pray for mercy and intercede. If this is what has already happened, it would mean cosmic catastrophes are next, in particular the shaking of all things. Nuclear? Or natural? Yellowstone? Magma shifts? It is where the sun is darkened and the moon turns blood red. This will necessitate prayer in the Holy Spirit. Joel’s prophecy implied this is one major reason the Holy Spirit was given, to equip congregations to pray for mercy in this time of sun and moon signs and global devastation. It is here in the passages in Joel about such things and angelic battles following on from this, that the promise is given of the Holy Spirit upon many, many people. Here it is urged that prayers for mercy might mean God will relent from the worst aspects of this apocalyptic judgment.
Roots of Christian Blindness
Christian elements heavily influenced by Pharisaic traditions:
Strict Monotheism: Pharisaic emphasis on the absolute oneness of God, excluding any divine beings other than the Father, influenced early church father Christian monotheism, extremely wary of admitting to any other divine beings, hence creating the basis for the later development of Modalist and Trinitarian doctrines.
Church Structure: The synagogue model, developed by the Pharisees, influenced the organization of early Christian gatherings.
Liturgy and Worship: Practices like scripture reading and structured prayers in Christian services were adopted from Pharisaic synagogue traditions.
Scriptural Interpretation: Christian methods of interpreting scripture drew on Pharisaic midrashic techniques, which included allegorical readings.
Festivals: Some Jewish festivals, shaped by Pharisaic practices, were reinterpreted within Christian contexts, such as Pentecost.
Ethical Codes: Pharisaic ethical guidelines and community discipline influenced the development of moral standards in early Christian communities.
Closing of Scriptures: The Pharisees played a role in defining the Jewish canon, which influenced the eventual closing of the Christian Old Testament canon, excluding texts like the Book of Enoch.
Legalism: The development of canon law and traditions within the Church reflects a legalistic approach similar to that of the Pharisees, who emphasized strict adherence to the law.
These elements, rooted in Pharisaic tradition, were integrated into Christianity independently of Jesus' direct teachings, often through early Jewish-Christian interactions.
Jesus warned about following blind guides. Theirs is blackest darkness forever.
Enduring the Apocalpse
If we want to be in the will of God as events of the Apocalypse close in, we do not want the stumbling block of pretrib rapture doctrine to hinder us from understanding that we are all in it together with these events and need mercy as the prophet Joel foretold. The sun will turn to sackcloth and the moon to blood as the successive global wild fires and earthquakes and eruptions fill up the atmosphere. We could choose to opt out of God’s will and be the false prophet, but that will not mean being raptured before the tribulation of the ‘Antichrist’ Beast. The false prophet will be destroyed along with that Beast. Making a covenant with death, to let a lie pretend to protect us, this is merely a lie and delusion. To take the centre lane of the will of God we need to join with Holy Spirit facilitated prayer fellowship to do as it says in Joel, to pray for mercy. Maybe God will mercifully delay and them speed up the events so they are more bearable. Then Christ will welcome the faithful with a rich welcome when he comes at the end of the events.
Prayer and changing the future
The dates of many of the apocalyptic events can change, at least some can, especially the earlier ones. They depend on the intercessions of the saints. People can pray and shorten the time. If the sequence of events goes on very long, it is much more painful and horrific. Like pulling off a plaster/band aid. Praying for a quick rapid succession of events, perhaps where some are delayed, would be a plea for mercy. God might hear (as Joel foretold). But the time of the last events is decided by God and does not allow for any more delay. Especially the time Christ comes finally. God knows this time already. No use praying for it to be delayed.
Sunday, 18 August 2024
Speculative Timeline (2028-2060) of Revelation Events (Revision 2, not AI generated)
Speculative Timeline (2028-2060) of Revelation Events (Revision 2, not AI generated)
c. 2028: A massive earthquake and cosmic disturbances signal a major turning point. God seals 144,000 from the tribes of Israel.
c.
2030-2032 : One-third of the earth, trees, and grass are burned.c. 2034: A great burning mountain is thrown into the sea, causing massive destruction.
c. 2036: Poisoning of a third of all waters (Wormwood).
c. 2040: A cataclysmic event causes a third of the sun, moon, and stars to be darkened, affecting day and night.
c.
2044-2052 : Demonic locusts torment humanity for five months, with prolonged effects. Following this, four angels release an army that kills a third of humanity.c. 2045: Signs may be appearing of the ‘Antichrist’ Beast and talk of a 666 system.
c.
2045-2050 : The ‘Antichrist’ Beast power is growing.c. 2050: The ‘Antichrist’ Beast sets up the 666 system.
c.
2052-2056 : Two witnesses prophesy for 3.5 years in Jerusalem.c. 2056: The ‘Antichrist’ Beast kills the two witnesses in Jerusalem; they rise again and ascend, followed by a huge earthquake. Satan is cast down to earth.
c.
2056-2060 : The ‘Antichrist’ Beast system is complete, and the 666 mark is enforced for 3.5 years.c. 2059: Babylon the Great is destroyed.
c. 2060: The ‘Antichrist’ Beast is destroyed by the coming of Christ.
Speculative last fifteen years before the Christ comes
Speculative last fifteen years before the Christ comes;
Only the Father knows the exact timings;
c2045 Signs appearing of Beast and talk of a system;
c2045-2050 The Beast power growing;
c2050 System of 666 being set up by the Beast;
c2056 System complete and 666 being enforced;
c2059 Babylon the Great destroyed;
c2060 Beast destroyed by the coming of the Christ;
State of the Apocalypse
August 2024. The first horseman of the apocalypse “And he was given a crown, and he rode out to overcome and conquer”. This might be USA seeking to preserve its crown of hegemony, and expanding its crown via expansion of NATO and colour revolutions. If the second horseman starts to show signs, I might be convinced the first seal has been opened and second seal is being opened. What signs would indicate this? “… permission to take away peace from the earth and to make men slay one another”, this would be evident. Maybe that is what is happening as UN stops preventing wars and governments show signs of giving way to interpersonal aggression, rioting. Colour revolutions and local wars are being allowed with impunity. UN seems to have been taken over by the West, and the West no longer cracks down on fascism. The governments, both national and local, in my own country, UK, do not seem to clamp down on attacks by one against another, like they used to govern it. Attacks of one against another are allowed and unstoppable. So if this continues, proves to be global, and worsens, well yes, I would start to be convinced this second seal is broken and the second horseman carrying out their divinely given mission. What would be the next sign to watch for? Prices being fixed from heaven, with growing economic downturn, globally. The third horseman. I cannot see this quite yet but sanctions might hint at it beginning. That last horseman is not quite here but maybe is near, a quarter of the world being given over to war, disease, etc., essentially that would pretty much be World War III. It is feasible it could be near. Maybe seals three and four are opened after all. The martyrs in heaven might not have long to wait now before they start to get justice.
The Tribulation
Some pretribulation rapture dispensationalists believe in a total of seven years of tribulation, divided into three and a half years of tribulation and three and a half years of great tribulation. Others believe in a single period of three and a half years of tribulation. But do they not question why the rapture didn’t occur before events like the Thirty Years' War, which killed 1.5% of the world’s population (30% of Europe)? And why was there no rapture before the devastation caused by the Conquistadors and smallpox, which wiped out 20% of the world’s population? Is a 3.5-year reign of terror by the ‘antichrist’ beast the only event that warrants a pretribulation rapture? Furthermore, Revelation suggests that its events will result in the death of around half the world’s population. Do they really believe that such a massive death toll could occur within just three and a half years? It took the Conquistadors and smallpox nearly a century to cause similar devastation. The idea that the 50% death toll foretold in Revelation could happen in just 3.5 or even 7 years is utterly unreasonable; it would clearly take longer. Even thirty years might be the minimum time required. Yes, during that period, there would be a three and a half year reign of terror by the ‘antichrist’ beast, but that would only be one part of the overall devastation.
Saturday, 17 August 2024
The light of the world and an analogy
When it comes to the light of the world, here is an analogy. There is a reactor. There is a single power station with this single reactor. Then there are substations. Then there are many other substations. There are lots of cables, wires, etcetera. Then there is the light in people’s homes. Consider God the Father is a single reactor. The Lord Jesus Christ is the single power station with this single reactor. Then there are apostles and prophets like substations. Then there are many other substations. The Holy Spirit is like the wire and cable infrastructure. It all together lights the homes.
Wealth
Wealth is a sign. It is a sign of what awaits on the other side of the grave. The lesson of ‘The Rich man and Lazarus’ is how Jesus Christ interpreted this sign.
Thursday, 15 August 2024
Psalm 82 and Jesus Christ
Jesus’ own possible understanding of Psalm 82, “ye are gods”
— by ChatGPT
Psalm 82, with its themes of divine judgment and the accountability of those in authority, would have had profound implications for Jesus in His awareness of His own role and responsibility as the one appointed by God to judge humanity. As Jesus grew in His understanding of His identity and mission, the psalm would have reinforced several key aspects of His role as the ultimate judge.
1. Confirmation of Divine Authority
Psalm 82 depicts God as the supreme judge who holds even the highest authorities accountable. For Jesus, who understood Himself as the one sent by God to fulfill a unique and divine mission, this psalm would confirm His authority to judge. The reference to "gods" and "sons of the Most High" in the psalm might have reinforced His self-understanding as the true and ultimate Son of God, possessing the authority to judge not just as a human ruler, but as the divine agent of God’s justice.
Implication for Jesus: This would have deepened His conviction that His authority to forgive sins, pronounce judgment, and wield divine power (e.g., cursing the fig tree, declaring judgment on Capernaum) was not only legitimate but essential to His mission. He would have seen His actions as a fulfillment of the divine role depicted in Psalm 82.
2. Responsibility to Execute Just Judgment
The psalm criticizes the "gods" for their failure to execute justice and defend the poor and needy. This would resonate deeply with Jesus, who consistently demonstrated a commitment to justice, mercy, and compassion. His awareness of His role as judge would include a profound sense of responsibility to carry out God's will perfectly, unlike the failed judges in Psalm 82.
Implication for Jesus: Jesus would have been acutely aware that His judgments needed to reflect the perfect justice and mercy of God. Whether pronouncing woes on unrepentant cities like Capernaum or offering forgiveness to sinners, He would have seen these actions as part of His divine mandate to judge righteously, as highlighted by the failures of the "gods" in the psalm.
3. Awareness of the Apocalyptic Role
Psalm 82 ends with a call for God to arise and judge the earth, a theme that is echoed in apocalyptic literature, where the coming of God’s judgment is anticipated. Jesus, aware of His role in the eschatological (end-times) scenario, would see Himself as the one who will ultimately fulfill this psalm’s call for divine judgment.
Implication for Jesus: The psalm would have affirmed His future role in presiding over the final judgment, where He would "tread the winepress of the wrath of God" (Revelation 19:15) and judge all nations. Jesus would have seen this as a continuation of the divine judgment described in Psalm 82, but now fully realized in His person and mission.
4. Caution Against Misusing Power
While Psalm 82 affirms the authority of those who judge, it also serves as a warning against the misuse of that power. The "gods" are rebuked for failing to uphold justice, reminding them that their authority is not absolute and that they will face judgment themselves. This would have served as a caution to Jesus about the weight of His responsibility.
Implication for Jesus: Jesus, who was fully aware of His divine authority, would also be mindful of the need to exercise that authority in alignment with God’s will. The psalm would underscore the importance of righteous judgment and the consequences of failing to live up to the divine standard, something He would have been determined to fulfill perfectly.
5. Identification with the Divine Judge
Finally, Psalm 82’s portrayal of God as the ultimate judge who condemns injustice and upholds righteousness would resonate with Jesus’ self-identification as the Son of God. Jesus might see Himself as the embodiment of the divine judge described in the psalm—one who perfectly executes God’s judgment.
Implication for Jesus: Jesus would have seen His actions—whether in cursing the fig tree, condemning cities, or forgiving sins—as direct expressions of the divine judgment and authority spoken of in Psalm 82. His awareness of His role as the one who would preside over the final judgment would be seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the divine justice that the psalm anticipates.
Conclusion
For Jesus, Psalm 82 would have been a significant text that shaped His understanding of His role as judge. It would have confirmed His divine authority, emphasized the responsibility to judge righteously, and underscored the eschatological nature of His mission. Jesus would see Himself as fulfilling the divine mandate depicted in the psalm, executing justice where others had failed, and ultimately presiding over the final judgment as the true Son of God.
Canons of Scripture and the Book of Enoch, according to ChatGPT
“The Book of Enoch and Canonical Tradition
The Book of Enoch, also known as 1 Enoch, is an ancient Jewish text that is not part of the Jewish Tanakh or the Christian Old Testament in most traditions. However, it has been preserved in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's canon and is considered scripture there. This inclusion reflects the more fluid and diverse understanding of what constitutes inspired scripture in different Christian traditions.
Western Canon Formation and Jerome
Jerome, a key figure in the early Christian Church, was responsible for the Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible, completed in the late 4th century. Jerome was influenced by Jewish scholars in Bethlehem, where he lived for much of his life, and these scholars likely adhered to the canon established by the Pharisaic tradition, which later became the Masoretic Text. This canon did not include books like the Book of Enoch. The influence of this Jewish canon was significant in shaping the Christian Old Testament in the West.
Protestant Canon and the Westminster Confession
The Protestant Reformation brought a renewed focus on scripture, with reformers like Martin Luther emphasizing the authority of the Bible alone ("sola scriptura"). The Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) and the King James Version (1611) represent key moments in the establishment of a fixed Protestant canon. These documents reflect the acceptance of a specific set of books as canonical, influenced by earlier decisions like the Councils of Carthage (397 and 419) and the Jewish canon, but rejecting apocryphal or deuterocanonical books.
The Council of Trent and the Catholic Canon
The Council of Trent (1546) was the Catholic Church's response to the Reformation, reaffirming the inclusion of the deuterocanonical books (like Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, etc.) in the Catholic canon, which Protestants had rejected. This established a clear distinction between the Protestant and Catholic canons.
Global Influence and Potential Alignment
Your suggestion that churches with canons that include the Book of Enoch might eventually align with the Protestant or Catholic canon reflects an ongoing tension between local religious traditions and the influence of larger, often Western, Christian movements. While it's possible that globalization and the dominance of certain Christian traditions (especially Western Protestantism and Catholicism) could lead to a more uniform canon worldwide, this is far from guaranteed.
Many churches, particularly in Ethiopia and other parts of Africa, maintain strong traditions that resist Western influence. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church, for example, has a long history and a deep commitment to its own canon, including the Book of Enoch. While there might be pressure to conform, it's unlikely that these traditions will easily abandon their unique scriptural heritage.
Conclusion
While Western Christian traditions, especially through the influence of the Protestant Reformation and the Council of Trent, have had a significant impact on the global Christian understanding of the biblical canon, it is not inevitable that all Christian traditions will conform to this. The diversity of Christian practice and belief around the world, particularly in regions with strong historical traditions like Ethiopia, suggests that the Book of Enoch and other unique elements of non-Western canons will continue to be preserved, even in the face of external pressures.”
— ChatGPT
2060
2060: It is not certain that this date is actually the approximate time of the return of the Christ. It is the approximate end of the 2800 year punishment of northern tribes of Israel prophesied in the Book of Enoch (the Dream of Beasts). It is a fair assumption that Christ comes when it ends or after it ends. He clearly is unlikely to come before it ends. The Book of Enoch (the ten weeks account) also leads to a fair conclusion that the final judgement, after the Millennium, is around 3000 to 3100 or thereabouts, so this adds weight to the theory that the Christ will come around 2060. 2060 is a date which was set 5000 years ago. That is how long the prophecies have been around. But only as we get near, do the dates become clearer. Other dates start to be clear as prophecies about ancient events become clear. “Many will go here and there and find knowledge.” “Knowledge will increase” as Daniel was told. Now knowledge is complete enough to make sense of the meaning of what was prophesied thousands of years ago.
Revelations from the Holy Spirit and the Book of Enoch
The Book of Enoch has in it words of the Holy Spirit. How do I know? Because I witnessed similar words in tongues in a Pentecostal church more than twenty years ago. I was one of at least two people given the exact same interpretation. “Consider the trees. They put forth buds and leaves. They do so by the power of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.” The Christ did not fail in honouring the will and commands of the Father. The Book of Enoch writes in a context of fallen angels. Their disregard of the Father’s will and commands was a threat to the order of angelic governance of Nature, such that Nature was at threat. If other angels followed the precedent set by these fallen angels, the very governance of Nature by angels would be undermined and fail. The name of the Lord Jesus Christ had to be proclaimed and woven into the oath of Nature governing, to protect this governing by upholding the righteous way of honouring God. Without all this, eventually even the trees would not persist in honouring the will of the Creator. So the natural processes are intertwined with the powerful name of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is all explained in the Book of Enoch, which is why I believe it is true scripture. I believe all this is a contributing factor in the honour given to the book in Jesus’ teachings and the epistle of Jude and other parts of the New Testament scriptures. This is especially apparent in the Book of Revelation which has so many parallels with verses in the Book of Enoch. The two compliment each other. The Book of Enoch indicates strongly when the Christ will return. It does not pin it diwn as Christ’s returning time, but 2060 fits with it as the end of 2800 years of seventy angelic shepherd terms of office presiding over tribulations of Israel since the Assyrian conquest of Samaria. It puts an earliest date of his return at around 2060 AD. This book also greatly affects my view of the preexistence of the Christ. Plus, it underpins my belief that the Father and Son are distinct individuals, because that is how they are presented in the Book of Enoch.
Wednesday, 14 August 2024
The Linguistic and Scriptural Roots of Trinity Confusion
Usually parents are father and mother. We can call a person’s parents in this case, the father and the mother. Or we can call these, the parents. Someone who loses contact with the parents, thus loses contact, it can be said in such cases, with the father and the mother. 2 John 1:9 seems to be a similar grammatical scenario. Here instead of the father and the mother, it is speaking of the father and the son, but not in relation to someone who has these as parents but a disciple, or rather, a former disciple, who has these as God. Specifically it is someone who by sinfully losing the teachings of the Christ is losing fellowship with the Father and the Son, and it calls it losing fellowship with God. This might be the kind of Christian use of language and ontology which eventually developed much later into thinking of Father and Son as together being God in the same or similar sense to how father and mother are together the parents. Perhaps some took it too far and started to say this use of the word God is the one true God, and Father and Son are to be each identified as this God. We would not say of father and mother that each is identified as part of a being we call the Parents. It would be daft. But that seems to be what happened with the Trinity thinking. It is nonsense to think of the Parents of a person as one being. But we use “being” in a different sense to how it was used in times of the Council of Nicea and following. As meanings changed, the Trinity dogma changed in how it was expressed, and confusion potential grew, and the language used to express the dogma had to keep being corrected. Now the language is far removed from the use of words like “being” in daily life. So confusion triumphs. Perhaps the devil is happy to let it stay that way. The devil and the devil’s children are haters of the truth of God. They do not want people comfortably resting in the belief that Jesus is the Son of God.
Rapture ideas and a temptation to stir up trouble
Potential side effect of expectation of a pre-tribulation rapture could be that leaders take advantage of this idea by thinking they can stir up worldwide troubles, thinking it will result in themselves being raptured before it becomes tribulation, and then the unbelievers will be left to pick up the pieces. Such adherents to this view of the rapture could think they are keeping the faith and obeying the command to speed the day. A word of warning: Getting it wrong and not actually being raptured before things go awry, could mean you are still around to deal with backlash from the angry world when it realises you did this to them. They might sue. Or worse. The day will bring it to light. Christ really will come back after the terrible times and if you are still alive on earth, he might judge you for this. The same will go even for angelic leaders. A lake of fire could be their end too, if they went too far in stirring up trouble. Leaders, angels, voters, they all come to the judgment by Christ Jesus.
Tuesday, 13 August 2024
Revised Speculative Apocalyptic Timeline by ChatGPT
Here's a revised speculative timeline that allocates more time to events such as wars and the development of empire systems, while minimizing the time for heavenly events that might occur quickly:
Revised Speculative Timeline (2030-2060) of Revelation 6 to 19 Events
2030
- Opening of the First Seal: The rider on the white horse (conquest) begins a period of global unrest. (Revelation 6:1-2)
2031-2032
- Second Seal: The rider on the red horse brings widespread war. This period includes the escalation and duration of conflicts. (Revelation 6:3-4)
2033
- Third Seal: The rider on the black horse causes famine and economic collapse, which could develop over a year. (Revelation 6:5-6)
2034-2035
- Fourth Seal: The rider on the pale horse brings death through war, famine, and plague. These compounded crises might take two years to fully unfold. (Revelation 6:7-8)
2036
- Fifth Seal: The souls of martyrs cry out for justice, representing ongoing persecution. (Revelation 6:9-11)
- Sixth Seal: A massive earthquake and cosmic disturbances signal a major turning point. (Revelation 6:12-17)
- Sealing of the 144,000: God seals 144,000 from the tribes of Israel. (Revelation 7:1-8)
2037-2040
- The Great Multitude and Seventh Seal: A multitude from every nation is seen in heaven. The seventh seal is followed by the preparation for the trumpet judgments. (Revelation 7:9-17, Revelation 8:1-5)
- First Trumpet: Hail and fire mixed with blood; one-third of the earth, trees, and grass are burned. (Revelation 8:6-7)
2041
- Second Trumpet: A great burning mountain (possibly an asteroid or volcano) is thrown into the sea, causing massive destruction. (Revelation 8:8-9)
2042
- Third Trumpet: A great star (Wormwood) falls from heaven, poisoning a third of the waters. (Revelation 8:10-11)
2043
- Fourth Trumpet: A third of the sun, moon, and stars are darkened, affecting day and night. (Revelation 8:12-13)
2044-2046
- Fifth Trumpet (First Woe): Demonic locusts torment humanity for five months, but the overall effects may last longer. (Revelation 9:1-12)
- Sixth Trumpet (Second Woe): Four angels release an army that kills a third of humanity. The period includes the preparation and escalation of this conflict. (Revelation 9:13-21)
2047-2050
- The Little Scroll and the Two Witnesses: The two witnesses prophesy for 1,260 days (about 3.5 years). Their ministry, death, and resurrection occur during this period. (Revelation 10-11:14)
2051
- Seventh Trumpet (Third Woe): The kingdom of the world becomes the kingdom of God; the final judgments are prepared. (Revelation 11:15-19)
- The Woman, the Dragon, and the Child: Symbolic visions of Israel, Satan, and Christ. Satan is cast down to earth, leading to intensified persecution. (Revelation 12)
2052-2055
- Rise of the Beasts: The first beast (political power) and the second beast (false prophet) rise, leading to global control and persecution. The development and enforcement of this global system may take several years. (Revelation 13)
2056
- Messages of the Three Angels: Angels announce the fall of Babylon, the final judgment, and call for endurance. (Revelation 14)
2057-2059
- The Seven Bowls of Wrath: God's final judgments are poured out, leading to widespread suffering and destruction. (Revelation 15-16)
- Fall of Babylon: The corrupt world system (Babylon) is judged and destroyed. (Revelation 17-18)
2060
- Marriage Supper of the Lamb: Christ's ultimate victory is celebrated, and preparations for the final battle are made. (Revelation 19:1-10)
- Battle of Armageddon: Christ returns, defeating the beast, the false prophet, and the armies of the world. The final judgment begins. (Revelation 19:11-21)
This revised timeline allows more time for complex events like wars and the establishment of global systems while treating heavenly events as potentially happening rapidly. This approach better reflects the varying nature of the events described in Revelation.
Monday, 12 August 2024
Speculative Revelation Timeline by ChatGPT
Here's a speculative timeline for the events described in Revelation 6 to 19, spanning from 2030 to 2060, with Revelation 6 occurring over the first five years (2030-2035) and Revelation 7 to 19 over the remaining 25 years (2035-2060).
Speculative Timeline (2030-2060) of Revelation 6 to 19 Events
2030
- Opening of the First Seal: The rider on the white horse (conquest) begins a period of global unrest. (Revelation 6:1-2)
2031
- Second Seal: The rider on the red horse brings widespread war. (Revelation 6:3-4)
2032
- Third Seal: The rider on the black horse causes famine and economic collapse. (Revelation 6:5-6)
2033
- Fourth Seal: The rider on the pale horse brings death through war, famine, and plague. (Revelation 6:7-8)
2034
- Fifth Seal: The souls of martyrs cry out for justice, representing ongoing persecution. (Revelation 6:9-11)
2035
- Sixth Seal: A massive earthquake and cosmic disturbances signal a major turning point. (Revelation 6:12-17)
- Sealing of the 144,000: God seals 144,000 from the tribes of Israel. (Revelation 7:1-8)
2036-2037
- The Great Multitude: A multitude from every nation is seen in heaven, coming out of the great tribulation. (Revelation 7:9-17)
2038
- Seventh Seal: Silence in heaven for about half an hour, followed by the preparation for the trumpet judgments. (Revelation 8:1-5)
2039
- First Trumpet: Hail and fire mixed with blood; one-third of the earth, trees, and grass are burned. (Revelation 8:6-7)
2040
- Second Trumpet: A great burning mountain (possibly an asteroid or volcano) is thrown into the sea, causing massive destruction. (Revelation 8:8-9)
2041
- Third Trumpet: A great star (Wormwood) falls from heaven, poisoning a third of the waters. (Revelation 8:10-11)
2042
- Fourth Trumpet: A third of the sun, moon, and stars are darkened, affecting day and night. (Revelation 8:12-13)
2043
- Fifth Trumpet (First Woe): Demonic locusts torment humanity for five months. (Revelation 9:1-12)
2044
- Sixth Trumpet (Second Woe): Four angels release an army that kills a third of humanity. (Revelation 9:13-21)
2045-2047
- The Little Scroll and the Two Witnesses: The two witnesses prophesy for 1,260 days (about 3.5 years). Their ministry, death, and resurrection occur during this period. (Revelation 10-11:14)
2048
- Seventh Trumpet (Third Woe): The kingdom of the world becomes the kingdom of God; the final judgments are prepared. (Revelation 11:15-19)
2049-2051
- The Woman, the Dragon, and the Child: Symbolic visions of Israel, Satan, and Christ. Satan is cast down to earth, leading to intensified persecution. (Revelation 12)
2052-2054
- Rise of the Beasts: The first beast (political power) and the second beast (false prophet) rise, leading to global control and persecution. (Revelation 13)
2055-2056
- Messages of the Three Angels: Angels announce the fall of Babylon, the final judgment, and call for endurance. (Revelation 14)
2057
- The Seven Bowls of Wrath: God's final judgments are poured out, leading to widespread suffering and destruction. (Revelation 15-16)
2058
- Fall of Babylon: The corrupt world system (Babylon) is judged and destroyed. (Revelation 17-18)
2059
- Marriage Supper of the Lamb: Christ's ultimate victory is celebrated, and preparations for the final battle are made. (Revelation 19:1-10)
2060
- Battle of Armageddon: Christ returns, defeating the beast, the false prophet, and the armies of the world. The final judgment begins. (Revelation 19:11-21)
Summary of the Timeline:
- 2030-2035: The events of Revelation 6 unfold, representing the initial phase of global crises and tribulation.
- 2035-2060: The more extended and intense period of tribulation, divine judgments, and eventual triumph as described in Revelation 7 to 19.
This speculative timeline provides a structured approach to understanding how these events might unfold over a 30-year period, beginning in 2030 and culminating in 2060.
A timeline towards Armageddon
Question to AI: Could Revelation 7 to 19 be just 25 years and Revelation 6 on its own be five years?
REVELATION 6: THE INITIAL PHASE (5 YEARS)
- The Seven Seals:The first four seals (the Four Horsemen) could represent an escalating series of global crises—war, famine, disease, and death—that unfold relatively quickly, setting the stage for a period of intense tribulation. The fifth seal, which reveals the souls of martyrs, suggests ongoing persecution, possibly over a few years. The sixth seal describes a massive earthquake and cosmic disturbances, signaling a significant turning point in the unfolding judgment.
REVELATION 7 TO 19: THE EXTENDED TRIBULATION (25 YEARS)
- Revelation 7: The sealing of the 144,000 and the vision of the great multitude may mark the start of a more extended period of tribulation, with the events described here potentially stretching over the entire 25-year period.
- Revelation 8-9: The sounding of the seven trumpets, with their accompanying disasters, could unfold over several years. Given the intensity and scope of these judgments, a decade or more could be involved as the world deals with the aftermath of each trumpet.
- Revelation 10-11: The prophecy of the two witnesses (1,260 days or 3.5 years) could be situated within this broader 25-year period, possibly marking a mid-point or a specific phase of heightened spiritual conflict and testimony.
- Revelation 12-13: The symbolic visions and the rise of the beasts suggest an ongoing, oppressive regime that might span multiple years within this period, contributing to the total 25 years.
- Revelation 14-16: The messages of the three angels, the harvest of the earth, and the pouring out of the seven bowls of wrath likely represent the culmination of the 25-year period, with the final judgments unfolding toward the end of this timeline.
- Revelation 17-19: The fall of Babylon and the ultimate victory of Christ over the beast and the false prophet might occur in the final years of this 25-year period, leading up to the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom.
SUMMARY TIMELINE:
- Revelation 6: Initial Phase (5 years) - A period of escalating crises and tribulation.
- Revelation 7 to 19: Extended Tribulation (25 years) - A longer period of divine judgment, spiritual conflict, and eventual resolution.