Chapter 2: What is the Bible Really all About? - From 'In the Beginning.'
Chapter 2: What is the Bible Really all About?..., from ‘In the Beginning: It Was Spiritual From the Very Start - The Spiritual Side of Creation, Part I.’ An upcoming Christian, Theological Book, by Ted Roberts, concerning Idioms, Metaphors, Parables, Similitude's, and Allegories, which can be traced all the way to the very beginning of time! And, of which, we can see our own salvation’s plan within . . . Seeking the Everlasting Gospel Ministries, Houston, TX, Digging Scriptures for Truth, ©copyright 2017 by Ted Roberts www.seekingthegospel.com
Ask yourself a question: what is the Bible really about? What is it trying to say to me, personally, for my salvation? Is it simply a book of morals? Of how to be a good person? A book of rules and regulations? A good history lesson? Or, is it only a book of poetry and literature, meant to be a better source of entertainment than Shakespeare?
Even though the Written Word of God is a book of morals; even though it does tell me how to be a good person; even though it has rules and regulations; even though it relays accurate histories; and even though it is chock-full of poetry and literature that reads better than Shakespeare, the Bible is much more than all these things combined! More importantly, it is a spiritual manual, telling the potential student of light how to become a child of the living God; of how He resurrects us unto life eternal; and, of how we can transform into the very image of Jesus Christ. Is not then the spiritual meanings more valuable to me for my salvation than the natural, historical meanings? Ultimately, can the natural, historical understandings of the scriptures save my soul?
Please, do not misunderstand me here, for I am perfectly aware of the historic and scientific value of the Written Word of God − and that value is substantial! Not only so, but such things (as the natural, historical, and scientific explanations that are written within, and accurately portrayed) can be a tremendous launching pad to get folks to the right place in their lives to where God can start working with them spiritually. In fact, it's really a necessary step for many people. As one team of Biblical Archaeologists*12 has pointed out, such natural illustrations (in this case, literally digging up facts that support the scriptures) certainly are helpful, because many folks have lost their faith in the Bible, since there has been tremendous success from others (from some Atheists and some Evolutionists*13) whose main function, it would seem, is to destroy our trust in the Written Word of God. They truly are out there − hard at work − trying desperately to destroy people's faith in the Biblical text by supposedly proving that the Bible's not accurate at all (either scientifically or historically), and is therefore a false document in its representation of those fields. If these said Evolutionistic teachers and Atheists can successfully destroy people's faith in the Bible (ripping it up piece by piece!), then they could destroy people's faith in God's own existence, too.
However, what I was trying to point out, was that after we can straighten up from such unscrupulous propaganda from non-believers, then we need to jump to the next step in our walk with God; and, that's not only a personal relationship with Him − and not only that we try to get into Christ − but that we, also, have Christ get into us. This is why I say that it's more important to understand what God is saying to us in His Mysteries, than what He has said in His History.
As I've already pointed out, that even though it's of extreme importance to learn of what had been in the past, and even understand what is to become of our future, God, however, is mostly concerned with what is happening for us right now − today!*14 − and of how we can transform into His image, and of how we are to obtain His Divine Nature, so that we'll be able to treat one another, in proper fashion, with agape love.*15 What can be more important than that? Would it be more important for us to dwell on a past that has already come and gone? Or, of us dwelling on a future that hasn't even come yet? I'm declaring boldly that the scriptures are MAINLY focused on whom we should be in our present walk with God. That is, they are metaphorically speaking to a Christian of just how we are to have a personal relationship with Him at this present time. Not the past. Not the future. But, here and now! Though the scriptures use elements of our past to shape us (as it culminates, ultimately, into whom we are to become in the future), its main focus, again, is on us at this present time, on us as Christian individuals, and of how we treat one another with love and respect, rather than participating in man's religion − or even in worldly, ungodly events. To me, this is THE most important thing that a striving Christian should be focused on and concerned about: of how to please the Lord with their life, and with their walk; of how to become a living epistle that is to be read of all mankind; of how to love one another as He loves us. History cannot teach us that firsthand; gaining knowledge of future events cannot teach us that; but, by obtaining the Spirit of Truth, God can lead us, and can teach us, to strive for the High Calling, which is only in Christ Jesus. And it is to these things that I believe the metaphorical, parablistic teachings of the scriptures are focused. Even though they also teach us about past events and future events, they only do so to help us learn of what not to become − such as past mistakes that are not to be repeated, and of what some individuals will become in their future because of these past mistakes. Concentration then grips onto the Elect of what's expected of them for their current walk: the correct and narrow path that leads to Christ today.
Now, on to deeper matters: Let's observe some very curious scriptures in our Bibles, and let us see how metaphors are used therein, and then talk more about how they should be understood:
Song of Solomon 4:12,15
A garden inclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. [15] A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.
Psalms 1:3
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Ezekiel 17:24
And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the LORD have spoken and have done it.
Psalms 52:8a
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God...
Proverbs 11:30a
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life...
Psalms 92:12-14
The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.
Mark 8:24
And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking.
And, finally . . .
Genesis 2:8-9 (Which brings us back to the beginning)
And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
By reading these scriptures, we can clearly see that just because the Bible mentions gardens and trees, the only understanding of them therein cannot only be taken at face value; or, rather, that all the passages that mention these are simply to be seen as natural, which we would find within a natural setting . . . Even though I am making some observations on natural greenery, this is not, obviously, the theme of this book − even though trees and a garden are certainly included in the beginning of God's carefully planned work. I merely wanted to point out just a very small portion of scriptures that cannot be taken at natural face value, but that can be seen, instead, within a parablistic light . . . But, again, why does God wish to convey his great messages in parables? Even though we've already been over this, I'd like to approach that question from another angle. Consider the following passages:
Ecclesiastes 3:11
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
Ecclesiastes 8:17
Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.
So, if that's the case, then why, pray tell, do we study to show ourselves approved if we labour in vain and won't be able to find out about God anyway? Or, rather, what God's work and plans are for the occupants of the Earth, and of the Kingdom. Well, what can be gleaned from the above two scriptures is that those who were trying to seek God's plan were not only doing so with the mind and spirit of man, but (as I've pointed out in chapter 1) they were also doing so with the wrong intent in their heart. We know that God's ways are not our ways, and neither His thoughts ours;*16 so then, we must find out how to make His thoughts and ways ours in order to find out exactly what His plans will be for us − to have a vision of the workings of His Kingdom − and, too, of how we are supposed to grow into the full stature of Christ. We must also realize that not all men and women have the mind of Christ to think with, and not all have the spirit of God within them as a guide . . . Let's see this play out:
Ecclesiastes 4:1
So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.
These people, whose only function was to think and act with the only thing that they had in them up until that time − that is, having only the mind and spirit of man (i.e. having only fleshly knowledge, wisdom, and understanding) − were not only unable to find out about the ways of God, but, too, they were being plagued by the oppressor: which, in this case, was nothing more than their own carnal flesh;*17 which was blinding their eyes from the workings of God, and of which was keeping them from serving and worshipping God in the way that man was initially meant to do. And, because of that, they could not, and cannot, nor shall they ever be able to gain access into His Kingdom, or be able to be showered with real truth . . . That is, nobody can without the comforter as their guide.
Saint John 14:26
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,*18 whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
We have need of the Comforter to teach us of God's ways, and to make God's ways our ways, and His thoughts our thoughts. It will feed the mind of Christ, which will be with us from that day forward...
1 Corinthians 2:16b
...we have the mind of Christ.
...allowing us to grow into the full stature of Christ...
Ephesians 4:13
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
...and with the knowledge of God − instead of merely having man's knowledge.
END NOTES for Chapter 2
What is the Bible Really all About?
*12. One team of Biblical Archaeologists...
This is in reference to the Wyatt family; and, in particular, Mary Nell Wyatt, writing in A.D. 1993 for her late husband Ron Wyatt (who actually passed in 1999). Mr. Wyatt was a controversial, Biblical Archaeologist, who worked in the field from around the mid 1960's until the 1990's. My quote is rough, at best; but, the idea is what was meant ... Here is the web address for the actual quote: wyattnewsletters.com/ articles/faith.htm ... We will speak more on the Wyatt family in the upcoming chapters of this book.
*13. From some Atheists and some Evolutionists...
I am, by no means, insinuating that if a person is an Atheist or an Evolutionist that it automatically causes them to launch a campaign to destroy people's trust in the Bible, or even in God Himself. However, and it must be admitted to, that the people who do these types of enterprises certainly come from such factions. After all, your premise must begin in the belief that there is no God in order to launch a campaign against His followers for believing in Him and His Word. Of course, there are other factions who do the same, but it would seem that these two are the most influential for doing such a thing to begin with [For more information on this Evolutionistic stance, please see "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed," a movie by Ben Stein. Also, for help in seeing this, please view the Creation Seminar series by Dr. Kent Hovind: 2peter3.com] ... It must also be admitted to that there has been much success in these areas, for a lot of Christians have been buying into the propaganda that has been laid out by these said factions. These anti-Biblical thoughts certainly have made their way into the modern church, for I myself have heard it said, on several occasions, that man's hands have contaminated our Bibles, and therefore the Written Word, as it has been passed down to us today, cannot be trusted, since man's dirty hands have tampered with it. And, that belief, in turn, leads a lot of folks into utter confusion ... Confusion, of which, God is not responsible for, but man is:
1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
I find such arguments flawed, especially considering that if God is truly God, then He is MORE than capable of preserving His Word fully intact, even if He used man for its composition. Not only so, but such thoughts makes the Bible itself a liar when it says such things as:
Matthew 24:35
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
But, He didn't add the clause in there that said: "But, hopefully, it won't be contaminated, along the way, by man. In that case − sorry!" What are we to say, then, if man did contaminate it? Whoops? Oh, well?
2 Peter 1:20-21
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation [i.e. man didn't create scripture from their vain imaginations]. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
The People's New Testament:
That no prophecy ... is of any private interpretation. Is not an interpretation of the knowledge and feelings of the prophet, but of the will of God. The next verse [21] shows that this is the meaning. No scriptural prophecy is due to the will of man, but all came from men speaking from God when moved by the Holy Spirit. Prophecy is God's word, not the words of man.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
So, how much scripture is given by the inspiration of God? Some? Nope – all! If that's not true, then as 2nd Timothy describes (or, much rather, as the Apostle Paul describes), it cannot be beneficial for reproof, correction, or instruction in righteousness, so that the man of God could be perfect (that is, complete), nor thoroughly furnished unto all good works; or, rather, and as the KJV expresses it, 'throughly' furnished unto all good works. If just a little leaven leavens the entire lump of natural bread [Galatians 5:9], then how much more with the Word of God, the spiritual bread? Which, incidentally, is what Galatians 5:9 was really trying to say to begin with, and in a metaphorical way [Also, see Matthew 16:11-12]. I mean, either the Written Word is God's Word or it's not, right? Who are we to decide which parts of the Bible are inspired by God and which aren't? When did God make us that kind of a judge?
Romans 11:33-34
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out [by fleshly minded men]! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?
And, also:
Isaiah 40:12-13
Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance? Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him?
Do we have the skills to determine, without the Spirit of God as our guide, what is even right or wrong in this life without the Bible? Especially when we've all fallen short of the glory [Romans 3:23]? ... Now, this is not saying that every English translation out there are perfect translations. There's an entire study even on that score as to how God truly translated His Word into an acceptable English. As Benson Bobrick (author of the wonderful book, entitled: "Wide as the Waters: The Story of the English Bible and the Revolution it Inspired," 2001 A.D., Penguin Books) had pointed out, on the back, in the book's description: "In the beginning was the Word of God. And that Word was Hebrew and Greek." We must therefore seek God's ultimate Word in the original languages, and then try and match them up with the best possible English translations. This may seem a tough task ahead for any potential student of the Bible – especially since we have none of the original autographs at our disposal. And, yet, we must realize that it's not an impossible task – and, God can certainly give us analytical abilities to interpret His Word properly, if we can but ask with reverence, and can await these answers with patience. And, all the while, we must realize that, as I have pointed out in chapter 1 of this present book, God has done it that way on purpose, to hide His truths from the wise and the prudent [Matthew 11:25]. That is, those who are wise in their own eyes − in fleshly wisdom.
1 Corinthians 3:19
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Now, I certainly do realize that I've made some really bold statements about the Bible's accuracy – some may even think me nearing fanaticism in my approach! But, I, by no means, am sorry for what I've expressed thus far over God's ability of perfectly preserving His Word intact. However, some of what I've said may appear contradictory, especially with my explanation that God's accuracy does not lie in any single translation into a person's own language, the vernacular – making it appear as if man did, indeed, contaminate the English translations after all. But, that's not what I'm saying. For many, many years, even the Hebrew Bible went through this same predicament. Before the Authoritative Masoretic Version of the Hebrew scriptures came into existence in the tenth century A.D. – particularly by Aaron ben Moses ben Asher (whose version became the basis for modern critical editions of the Hebrew Bible, and was also the text used for translation by William Tyndale, the King James Bible Editors, and even the more recent J.P. Green Sr. Literal Version), there was a surmountable problem with other Hebrew Bibles Versions of those days [who were not, obviously, as concerned with Biblical preservation as the Masoretes tradition]; of which other versions had become corrupted because man wished to improve on God's text – especially when they felt there were mistakes within, simply because it either didn't comply with their beliefs, or with what they considered their own common sense. This is no different for the many English Versions at our disposal today; and, that's why there's a great amount of confusion in this world over which version is proper for us to use – since so many variations have been produced. Of course, I am officially reserving the full study of this topic for my upcoming book, 'The Bible is not a Buffet,' but I need to continue to say a few things on this herein for clarity of what I've already said. Again, the problem of man trying to improve on what was set out before them, in written form, has led to many corrupt versions (both today in our varied Bible Versions, and even in olden days with the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts), and it was these kind of corruptions that had led the aforementioned Aaron ben Moses ben Asher, in the tenth century A.D., to finally come out with an Authorized Version of the Hebrew and Aramaic scriptures that everybody could actually agree on. The premise of the Masoretes tradition was simple: for many years (and even before ben Asher's famous Authorized Version came to be – and despite all the corrupted versions that were being made on all sides of them) they took great pains to ensure that spelling and wording of the original scriptures did not change. Even what man had considered obvious imperfections were copied to the very letter (for more information on the history and tradition of the unbiased Masoretic Text, please see 'Reader's Digest: The Bible Through the Ages,' pages 266-269; and, too, wikipedia has good things to say about the subject). Their task very much paid off, and even when the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in the twentieth century A.D., and when compared with the Masoretic Text (especially with the fully intact, great Isaiah scroll of the Dead Sea), scholars were shocked to find there to be [after sifting through both works with intense analysis] only a 5 percent difference in the compared texts: which were simply spelling variants and sentence placements. Even though the pros and cons of this comparison varies amongst credited scholars and theologians (though all of them admit to the incredible accuracy of two documents that were composed about a thousand years apart!), this 5 percent is certainly confirmed by some of them as to being an incredible feat – and no less than an historical miracle – especially considering that the two documents in question were the same, word for word! This is confirmed by Gleason Archer, Jr., a credited scholar himself, in his book, called: 'A Survey of Old Testament Introduction,' Moody Press Chicago 1964 and 1994, on pages 25 and 29. He had also cleverly stated, in response that errors had crept into our Bibles, that there's a great difference between a document which was wrong at the start and a document which was right at the start but was miscopied; insinuating that just because there have been errors in Bible versions (or, even totally corrupt versions in existence), it certainly doesn't mean that the original texts were so; and, neither does this imply that God didn't preserve His Word unscathed, or that there isn't a way to sift through all the mess to find it. Mr. Archer concluded that even in the best manuscripts, where we find obvious slips of the pen and variations of spelling, that it doesn't mean it's enough to affect God's message to His people in the slightest. I will also add that this kind of reasoning (that is, in justifying the few so-called 'errors' that one will find in variant older manuscripts), is also true for the Greek New Testament manuscripts, in that a wonderful case can be made in favor of these documents, too. One can find further logical reasoning for Biblical accuracy and preservation in the highly acclaimed book by Lee Strobel, called, 'The Case for Christ (Harper Collins, Zondervan, 1998),' in chapter 3 during his interview with Dr. Bruce Metzger ... Again, we will investigate these kinds of claims, and in better detail, in my upcoming book on that subject ... But, even so, what is to be said of all the folks who used the 'corrupted' Hebrew scriptures instead the Masoretic text? Especially before the ben Asher family composed the best of all of them? Did these people simply miss out? Nay; but, as God has always (even in terrible life situations) opened up people's eyes to His hidden truths, He was certainly more than capable, in this situation, of helping people to understand where and when man tried to corrupt these texts; and, it did not affect those folks in being able to obtain the kernel of the Word of truth – much the same for us today when faced with the problem of which Bible Version to use:
John 10:4-5
And when he [the good shepherd] putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his [God's] voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
Even when somebody is using a version that has terrible mistakes in it (and, yes, there are many out there that have massive mistakes within!), God can still show His own voice therein...
Psalms 139:8
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
But, who is to say that, like us today, there weren't better versions for folks to use during these olden times (in both the Hebrew texts, and in the Greek New Testament texts)? I'm certainly not insinuating otherwise; for, as I've already stated concerning the Masoretic Text (and even in the mentioning of the wonderful preservation of the New Testament manuscripts), I do believe that God's Word, in an acceptable and uncontaminated form, wasn't as hard to obtain throughout church history as many people like to make it seem. But, the terrible and corrupt versions, like I've also been saying, have always been there, challenging people's faith in God's ability to preserve His Word intact ... But, that still shouldn't give us excuses for our continued usage of these bad Bible Versions. Surely, if and when God deals with us on this score, we should flee from things that have other voices within. Especially in our own day and age when Biblical Science is at such a high pitch, and when we truly have the freedom to choose the right version. So, Why dally? Why linger? Why tolerate thin pieces that have very little substance? When God speaks, we must act ... But (and I am fully aware of this), we can only do so when God makes this obvious to us. There is no shame in just doing the best that we can when we are uncertain. I am only speaking roughly (if I am speaking roughly at all) of when we actually know to do better, and we willingly stay behind for terrible reasons, such as laziness or unconcern ... However, and please understand me, I, by no means, am trying to say anything bad about folks who continue to view the Bible as nothing more than a corruption from man. Believe it or not, there was a point in my life when I thought so, as well. And, as far as any arguments that can be made against the notion of having a pure Bible (which isn't corrupted by man), I may have thought of just about every reason myself as to why man did interfere, to where we can't get the complete truth, or a pure Bible, even if we tried. Thankfully, though, the Lord intervened on my thoughts, and has enlightened me to the truth of this matter – else, I would still be stuck on contrary thoughts ... But, on the other hand, I also know that there are folks out there who aren't just confused on this matter, but who are actually going out of their way to destroy people's faith and trust in, not only the Bible, but in God Himself. As to those individuals, of whom I've described in chapter 1 of this book − that is, those who are wise in their own eyes, and who have a Pharisee spirit about them − then, I say, that they will never come to the knowledge of the truth [2 Timothy 3:7], no matter how hard they may try. And, yet, God can still help those folks if He so wishes to. But, unto those who have a pure heart (even if they are simply confused at the moment), then I say that the task ahead will not be one of too much difficulty if we try and keep an open mind; for, if we have a love for God, and a love and a desire to know the truth (simply because it can better our lives), then He will lead us and guide us into that truth very smoothly (even if slowly) − for such is His will, that all His true children will walk into the light of the knowledge of God [2 Corinthians 4:6] ... Not only so, but even if we continue to use a corrupted Bible Version (in saying that God just simply didn't deliver us from it, and we remained in ignorance of that fact), then I am certain that a person can still make it to be with God in the afterlife. After all, perfect Godly love is the core matter of life eternal, and not the usage of the correct Bible Version – even though the right version could teach us of that love in a clearer way. I'm confident, though, that God will lead His sheep into the directions that pleases Him – in not only choosing certain Bible Versions (which may be contrary to what we choose), but also to what church denominations that they decide to attend – whether we approve of that individual's movements or not. We need to be careful, therefore, on whom we judge unworthy ... I will be covering the reason why God allowed some supposed 'mistakes' (which, we will see, weren't really mistakes) to creep into our English translations (especially in the King James Version) in an upcoming End Note, for chapter 8, called: 'But, what is permissible for us, is the scrutinizing of these 'added' words...' Being of a similar topic (and actually completing this one – though, also, covering italicized words within translations), we will continue this discussion there, at this later End Note, which this present End Note has already begun speaking on...
*14. What is happening right now − today!...
In reference to us focusing on what's important for a Christian presently, let's consider the following verses ... Even though, technically, these verses were written about two thousand years ago (and some even older than that), the theme is the same − that is, on how God's children should focus on the here and now − and of their current walk with God. Remember, the only thing that exists for us is now. The past is gone and the future doesn't exist yet. This is what the teachers of the Bible were trying to have their students learn. Even though educated on the past, and alert to the future, they nevertheless threw greater importance onto the present:
James 4:13-14
Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
Luke 12:16-21
And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
Proverbs 27:1
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
Hebrews 3:12-13
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Romans 13:11
And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
Hebrews 3:6-8b
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts...
*15. So that we'll be able to treat one another, in proper fashion, with agape love...
In fact, the main reason that we are made into His image, and obtain the Divine Nature (of which nature Peter speaks on in 2nd Peter 1:4) is so that we'll be able to treat one another with the proper respect, and with Godly Love − which the Greek refers to as Agape. A lot of folks believe that we try to better ourselves so that we can become better than anybody else. And, yet, the scriptures plainly teach us that we only better ourselves so that we can help others to come up unto that same position as we. That is, we become better by humbling ourselves, and by preferring others above us ... I fully cover this subject in my first book in my teaching series, called: "Brotherly Love: The Gospel of Jesus Christ."
*16. We know that God's ways are not our ways, and neither His thoughts ours...
Isaiah 55:8-9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
*17. The oppressor: which, in this case, was nothing more than their own carnal flesh...
One can certainly argue that this oppressor was the devil himself. But, since I don't want to get off onto that long trail here, in this book (for I will do so in great detail in a set of upcoming books − within the Seeking the Everlasting Gospel Teaching Series, entitled: "The Evil Side of Creation" − and especially in part 2 of that series, in the book entitled: Satan, the Devil, and Hell), I will simply say for the moment that it's not extremely important to identify the oppressor at this time − though, that's certainly not saying, in the least, that the subject itself is not important. This is just not the right book to discuss it, for that's not the direction, herein, that I am wanting to head. But, I will simply say that whomever or whatever he (or it) is, that he/it certainly wasn't good! But, too, it must be admitted that the King James Version does not simply say 'oppressor' in the singular sense, but does, instead, imply 'oppressors' in the plural − indicating more than one, showing that perhaps it's not a single Being doing this. And, even though both the J.P. Green translation and the New International Version agree with the plural usage of the word, one may actually see my point as non-important, seeing as somebody could easily throw in the speculation that they may have been the devil along with his demonic cronies in tow. Ironically, though, the original Hebrew word âshaq, that's translated as Oppressors, doesn't even indicate any Beings whatsoever.
Âshaq, H6231, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary:
A primitive root; to press upon, that is, oppress, defraud, violate, overflow: - get deceitfully, deceive, defraud, drink up, (use) oppress ([-ion], -or), do violence (wrong).
This simply indicates the 'action' of oppression; that is, it's the bad situations one will find themselves in rather than pointing a finger at any Being, showing us how the word 'oppressors' can be in the plural. But, even though this is the result of one oppressed, it certainly can be argued that it was caused by a Being in the first place – which can be true enough – and is a point that I wouldn't dispute in the least, as it shows us that some 'force' is actually behind these oppressions, leading us right back around to the argument of whom it may be. But, the fact remains that there can be many speculations as to whom or what, as I will certainly, and thoroughly, explore in my upcoming set of books (that is, 'The Evil Side of Creation"), where I will show why I'm pointing fingers at the flesh as the culprit; or, much rather, the fleshly knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of man.
*18. Nobody can without the comforter as their guide ... the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost...
Romans 8:9
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Visit this upcoming book's official webpage: http://www.seekingthegospel.com/inthe...
Ask yourself a question: what is the Bible really about? What is it trying to say to me, personally, for my salvation? Is it simply a book of morals? Of how to be a good person? A book of rules and regulations? A good history lesson? Or, is it only a book of poetry and literature, meant to be a better source of entertainment than Shakespeare?
Even though the Written Word of God is a book of morals; even though it does tell me how to be a good person; even though it has rules and regulations; even though it relays accurate histories; and even though it is chock-full of poetry and literature that reads better than Shakespeare, the Bible is much more than all these things combined! More importantly, it is a spiritual manual, telling the potential student of light how to become a child of the living God; of how He resurrects us unto life eternal; and, of how we can transform into the very image of Jesus Christ. Is not then the spiritual meanings more valuable to me for my salvation than the natural, historical meanings? Ultimately, can the natural, historical understandings of the scriptures save my soul?
Please, do not misunderstand me here, for I am perfectly aware of the historic and scientific value of the Written Word of God − and that value is substantial! Not only so, but such things (as the natural, historical, and scientific explanations that are written within, and accurately portrayed) can be a tremendous launching pad to get folks to the right place in their lives to where God can start working with them spiritually. In fact, it's really a necessary step for many people. As one team of Biblical Archaeologists*12 has pointed out, such natural illustrations (in this case, literally digging up facts that support the scriptures) certainly are helpful, because many folks have lost their faith in the Bible, since there has been tremendous success from others (from some Atheists and some Evolutionists*13) whose main function, it would seem, is to destroy our trust in the Written Word of God. They truly are out there − hard at work − trying desperately to destroy people's faith in the Biblical text by supposedly proving that the Bible's not accurate at all (either scientifically or historically), and is therefore a false document in its representation of those fields. If these said Evolutionistic teachers and Atheists can successfully destroy people's faith in the Bible (ripping it up piece by piece!), then they could destroy people's faith in God's own existence, too.
However, what I was trying to point out, was that after we can straighten up from such unscrupulous propaganda from non-believers, then we need to jump to the next step in our walk with God; and, that's not only a personal relationship with Him − and not only that we try to get into Christ − but that we, also, have Christ get into us. This is why I say that it's more important to understand what God is saying to us in His Mysteries, than what He has said in His History.
As I've already pointed out, that even though it's of extreme importance to learn of what had been in the past, and even understand what is to become of our future, God, however, is mostly concerned with what is happening for us right now − today!*14 − and of how we can transform into His image, and of how we are to obtain His Divine Nature, so that we'll be able to treat one another, in proper fashion, with agape love.*15 What can be more important than that? Would it be more important for us to dwell on a past that has already come and gone? Or, of us dwelling on a future that hasn't even come yet? I'm declaring boldly that the scriptures are MAINLY focused on whom we should be in our present walk with God. That is, they are metaphorically speaking to a Christian of just how we are to have a personal relationship with Him at this present time. Not the past. Not the future. But, here and now! Though the scriptures use elements of our past to shape us (as it culminates, ultimately, into whom we are to become in the future), its main focus, again, is on us at this present time, on us as Christian individuals, and of how we treat one another with love and respect, rather than participating in man's religion − or even in worldly, ungodly events. To me, this is THE most important thing that a striving Christian should be focused on and concerned about: of how to please the Lord with their life, and with their walk; of how to become a living epistle that is to be read of all mankind; of how to love one another as He loves us. History cannot teach us that firsthand; gaining knowledge of future events cannot teach us that; but, by obtaining the Spirit of Truth, God can lead us, and can teach us, to strive for the High Calling, which is only in Christ Jesus. And it is to these things that I believe the metaphorical, parablistic teachings of the scriptures are focused. Even though they also teach us about past events and future events, they only do so to help us learn of what not to become − such as past mistakes that are not to be repeated, and of what some individuals will become in their future because of these past mistakes. Concentration then grips onto the Elect of what's expected of them for their current walk: the correct and narrow path that leads to Christ today.
Now, on to deeper matters: Let's observe some very curious scriptures in our Bibles, and let us see how metaphors are used therein, and then talk more about how they should be understood:
Song of Solomon 4:12,15
A garden inclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. [15] A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.
Psalms 1:3
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Ezekiel 17:24
And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the LORD have spoken and have done it.
Psalms 52:8a
But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God...
Proverbs 11:30a
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life...
Psalms 92:12-14
The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.
Mark 8:24
And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking.
And, finally . . .
Genesis 2:8-9 (Which brings us back to the beginning)
And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.
By reading these scriptures, we can clearly see that just because the Bible mentions gardens and trees, the only understanding of them therein cannot only be taken at face value; or, rather, that all the passages that mention these are simply to be seen as natural, which we would find within a natural setting . . . Even though I am making some observations on natural greenery, this is not, obviously, the theme of this book − even though trees and a garden are certainly included in the beginning of God's carefully planned work. I merely wanted to point out just a very small portion of scriptures that cannot be taken at natural face value, but that can be seen, instead, within a parablistic light . . . But, again, why does God wish to convey his great messages in parables? Even though we've already been over this, I'd like to approach that question from another angle. Consider the following passages:
Ecclesiastes 3:11
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
Ecclesiastes 8:17
Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.
So, if that's the case, then why, pray tell, do we study to show ourselves approved if we labour in vain and won't be able to find out about God anyway? Or, rather, what God's work and plans are for the occupants of the Earth, and of the Kingdom. Well, what can be gleaned from the above two scriptures is that those who were trying to seek God's plan were not only doing so with the mind and spirit of man, but (as I've pointed out in chapter 1) they were also doing so with the wrong intent in their heart. We know that God's ways are not our ways, and neither His thoughts ours;*16 so then, we must find out how to make His thoughts and ways ours in order to find out exactly what His plans will be for us − to have a vision of the workings of His Kingdom − and, too, of how we are supposed to grow into the full stature of Christ. We must also realize that not all men and women have the mind of Christ to think with, and not all have the spirit of God within them as a guide . . . Let's see this play out:
Ecclesiastes 4:1
So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.
These people, whose only function was to think and act with the only thing that they had in them up until that time − that is, having only the mind and spirit of man (i.e. having only fleshly knowledge, wisdom, and understanding) − were not only unable to find out about the ways of God, but, too, they were being plagued by the oppressor: which, in this case, was nothing more than their own carnal flesh;*17 which was blinding their eyes from the workings of God, and of which was keeping them from serving and worshipping God in the way that man was initially meant to do. And, because of that, they could not, and cannot, nor shall they ever be able to gain access into His Kingdom, or be able to be showered with real truth . . . That is, nobody can without the comforter as their guide.
Saint John 14:26
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,*18 whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
We have need of the Comforter to teach us of God's ways, and to make God's ways our ways, and His thoughts our thoughts. It will feed the mind of Christ, which will be with us from that day forward...
1 Corinthians 2:16b
...we have the mind of Christ.
...allowing us to grow into the full stature of Christ...
Ephesians 4:13
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.
...and with the knowledge of God − instead of merely having man's knowledge.
END NOTES for Chapter 2
What is the Bible Really all About?
*12. One team of Biblical Archaeologists...
This is in reference to the Wyatt family; and, in particular, Mary Nell Wyatt, writing in A.D. 1993 for her late husband Ron Wyatt (who actually passed in 1999). Mr. Wyatt was a controversial, Biblical Archaeologist, who worked in the field from around the mid 1960's until the 1990's. My quote is rough, at best; but, the idea is what was meant ... Here is the web address for the actual quote: wyattnewsletters.com/ articles/faith.htm ... We will speak more on the Wyatt family in the upcoming chapters of this book.
*13. From some Atheists and some Evolutionists...
I am, by no means, insinuating that if a person is an Atheist or an Evolutionist that it automatically causes them to launch a campaign to destroy people's trust in the Bible, or even in God Himself. However, and it must be admitted to, that the people who do these types of enterprises certainly come from such factions. After all, your premise must begin in the belief that there is no God in order to launch a campaign against His followers for believing in Him and His Word. Of course, there are other factions who do the same, but it would seem that these two are the most influential for doing such a thing to begin with [For more information on this Evolutionistic stance, please see "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed," a movie by Ben Stein. Also, for help in seeing this, please view the Creation Seminar series by Dr. Kent Hovind: 2peter3.com] ... It must also be admitted to that there has been much success in these areas, for a lot of Christians have been buying into the propaganda that has been laid out by these said factions. These anti-Biblical thoughts certainly have made their way into the modern church, for I myself have heard it said, on several occasions, that man's hands have contaminated our Bibles, and therefore the Written Word, as it has been passed down to us today, cannot be trusted, since man's dirty hands have tampered with it. And, that belief, in turn, leads a lot of folks into utter confusion ... Confusion, of which, God is not responsible for, but man is:
1 Corinthians 14:33
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
I find such arguments flawed, especially considering that if God is truly God, then He is MORE than capable of preserving His Word fully intact, even if He used man for its composition. Not only so, but such thoughts makes the Bible itself a liar when it says such things as:
Matthew 24:35
Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
But, He didn't add the clause in there that said: "But, hopefully, it won't be contaminated, along the way, by man. In that case − sorry!" What are we to say, then, if man did contaminate it? Whoops? Oh, well?
2 Peter 1:20-21
Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation [i.e. man didn't create scripture from their vain imaginations]. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
The People's New Testament:
That no prophecy ... is of any private interpretation. Is not an interpretation of the knowledge and feelings of the prophet, but of the will of God. The next verse [21] shows that this is the meaning. No scriptural prophecy is due to the will of man, but all came from men speaking from God when moved by the Holy Spirit. Prophecy is God's word, not the words of man.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
So, how much scripture is given by the inspiration of God? Some? Nope – all! If that's not true, then as 2nd Timothy describes (or, much rather, as the Apostle Paul describes), it cannot be beneficial for reproof, correction, or instruction in righteousness, so that the man of God could be perfect (that is, complete), nor thoroughly furnished unto all good works; or, rather, and as the KJV expresses it, 'throughly' furnished unto all good works. If just a little leaven leavens the entire lump of natural bread [Galatians 5:9], then how much more with the Word of God, the spiritual bread? Which, incidentally, is what Galatians 5:9 was really trying to say to begin with, and in a metaphorical way [Also, see Matthew 16:11-12]. I mean, either the Written Word is God's Word or it's not, right? Who are we to decide which parts of the Bible are inspired by God and which aren't? When did God make us that kind of a judge?
Romans 11:33-34
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out [by fleshly minded men]! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?
And, also:
Isaiah 40:12-13
Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance? Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him?
Do we have the skills to determine, without the Spirit of God as our guide, what is even right or wrong in this life without the Bible? Especially when we've all fallen short of the glory [Romans 3:23]? ... Now, this is not saying that every English translation out there are perfect translations. There's an entire study even on that score as to how God truly translated His Word into an acceptable English. As Benson Bobrick (author of the wonderful book, entitled: "Wide as the Waters: The Story of the English Bible and the Revolution it Inspired," 2001 A.D., Penguin Books) had pointed out, on the back, in the book's description: "In the beginning was the Word of God. And that Word was Hebrew and Greek." We must therefore seek God's ultimate Word in the original languages, and then try and match them up with the best possible English translations. This may seem a tough task ahead for any potential student of the Bible – especially since we have none of the original autographs at our disposal. And, yet, we must realize that it's not an impossible task – and, God can certainly give us analytical abilities to interpret His Word properly, if we can but ask with reverence, and can await these answers with patience. And, all the while, we must realize that, as I have pointed out in chapter 1 of this present book, God has done it that way on purpose, to hide His truths from the wise and the prudent [Matthew 11:25]. That is, those who are wise in their own eyes − in fleshly wisdom.
1 Corinthians 3:19
For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Now, I certainly do realize that I've made some really bold statements about the Bible's accuracy – some may even think me nearing fanaticism in my approach! But, I, by no means, am sorry for what I've expressed thus far over God's ability of perfectly preserving His Word intact. However, some of what I've said may appear contradictory, especially with my explanation that God's accuracy does not lie in any single translation into a person's own language, the vernacular – making it appear as if man did, indeed, contaminate the English translations after all. But, that's not what I'm saying. For many, many years, even the Hebrew Bible went through this same predicament. Before the Authoritative Masoretic Version of the Hebrew scriptures came into existence in the tenth century A.D. – particularly by Aaron ben Moses ben Asher (whose version became the basis for modern critical editions of the Hebrew Bible, and was also the text used for translation by William Tyndale, the King James Bible Editors, and even the more recent J.P. Green Sr. Literal Version), there was a surmountable problem with other Hebrew Bibles Versions of those days [who were not, obviously, as concerned with Biblical preservation as the Masoretes tradition]; of which other versions had become corrupted because man wished to improve on God's text – especially when they felt there were mistakes within, simply because it either didn't comply with their beliefs, or with what they considered their own common sense. This is no different for the many English Versions at our disposal today; and, that's why there's a great amount of confusion in this world over which version is proper for us to use – since so many variations have been produced. Of course, I am officially reserving the full study of this topic for my upcoming book, 'The Bible is not a Buffet,' but I need to continue to say a few things on this herein for clarity of what I've already said. Again, the problem of man trying to improve on what was set out before them, in written form, has led to many corrupt versions (both today in our varied Bible Versions, and even in olden days with the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts), and it was these kind of corruptions that had led the aforementioned Aaron ben Moses ben Asher, in the tenth century A.D., to finally come out with an Authorized Version of the Hebrew and Aramaic scriptures that everybody could actually agree on. The premise of the Masoretes tradition was simple: for many years (and even before ben Asher's famous Authorized Version came to be – and despite all the corrupted versions that were being made on all sides of them) they took great pains to ensure that spelling and wording of the original scriptures did not change. Even what man had considered obvious imperfections were copied to the very letter (for more information on the history and tradition of the unbiased Masoretic Text, please see 'Reader's Digest: The Bible Through the Ages,' pages 266-269; and, too, wikipedia has good things to say about the subject). Their task very much paid off, and even when the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in the twentieth century A.D., and when compared with the Masoretic Text (especially with the fully intact, great Isaiah scroll of the Dead Sea), scholars were shocked to find there to be [after sifting through both works with intense analysis] only a 5 percent difference in the compared texts: which were simply spelling variants and sentence placements. Even though the pros and cons of this comparison varies amongst credited scholars and theologians (though all of them admit to the incredible accuracy of two documents that were composed about a thousand years apart!), this 5 percent is certainly confirmed by some of them as to being an incredible feat – and no less than an historical miracle – especially considering that the two documents in question were the same, word for word! This is confirmed by Gleason Archer, Jr., a credited scholar himself, in his book, called: 'A Survey of Old Testament Introduction,' Moody Press Chicago 1964 and 1994, on pages 25 and 29. He had also cleverly stated, in response that errors had crept into our Bibles, that there's a great difference between a document which was wrong at the start and a document which was right at the start but was miscopied; insinuating that just because there have been errors in Bible versions (or, even totally corrupt versions in existence), it certainly doesn't mean that the original texts were so; and, neither does this imply that God didn't preserve His Word unscathed, or that there isn't a way to sift through all the mess to find it. Mr. Archer concluded that even in the best manuscripts, where we find obvious slips of the pen and variations of spelling, that it doesn't mean it's enough to affect God's message to His people in the slightest. I will also add that this kind of reasoning (that is, in justifying the few so-called 'errors' that one will find in variant older manuscripts), is also true for the Greek New Testament manuscripts, in that a wonderful case can be made in favor of these documents, too. One can find further logical reasoning for Biblical accuracy and preservation in the highly acclaimed book by Lee Strobel, called, 'The Case for Christ (Harper Collins, Zondervan, 1998),' in chapter 3 during his interview with Dr. Bruce Metzger ... Again, we will investigate these kinds of claims, and in better detail, in my upcoming book on that subject ... But, even so, what is to be said of all the folks who used the 'corrupted' Hebrew scriptures instead the Masoretic text? Especially before the ben Asher family composed the best of all of them? Did these people simply miss out? Nay; but, as God has always (even in terrible life situations) opened up people's eyes to His hidden truths, He was certainly more than capable, in this situation, of helping people to understand where and when man tried to corrupt these texts; and, it did not affect those folks in being able to obtain the kernel of the Word of truth – much the same for us today when faced with the problem of which Bible Version to use:
John 10:4-5
And when he [the good shepherd] putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his [God's] voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
Even when somebody is using a version that has terrible mistakes in it (and, yes, there are many out there that have massive mistakes within!), God can still show His own voice therein...
Psalms 139:8
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
But, who is to say that, like us today, there weren't better versions for folks to use during these olden times (in both the Hebrew texts, and in the Greek New Testament texts)? I'm certainly not insinuating otherwise; for, as I've already stated concerning the Masoretic Text (and even in the mentioning of the wonderful preservation of the New Testament manuscripts), I do believe that God's Word, in an acceptable and uncontaminated form, wasn't as hard to obtain throughout church history as many people like to make it seem. But, the terrible and corrupt versions, like I've also been saying, have always been there, challenging people's faith in God's ability to preserve His Word intact ... But, that still shouldn't give us excuses for our continued usage of these bad Bible Versions. Surely, if and when God deals with us on this score, we should flee from things that have other voices within. Especially in our own day and age when Biblical Science is at such a high pitch, and when we truly have the freedom to choose the right version. So, Why dally? Why linger? Why tolerate thin pieces that have very little substance? When God speaks, we must act ... But (and I am fully aware of this), we can only do so when God makes this obvious to us. There is no shame in just doing the best that we can when we are uncertain. I am only speaking roughly (if I am speaking roughly at all) of when we actually know to do better, and we willingly stay behind for terrible reasons, such as laziness or unconcern ... However, and please understand me, I, by no means, am trying to say anything bad about folks who continue to view the Bible as nothing more than a corruption from man. Believe it or not, there was a point in my life when I thought so, as well. And, as far as any arguments that can be made against the notion of having a pure Bible (which isn't corrupted by man), I may have thought of just about every reason myself as to why man did interfere, to where we can't get the complete truth, or a pure Bible, even if we tried. Thankfully, though, the Lord intervened on my thoughts, and has enlightened me to the truth of this matter – else, I would still be stuck on contrary thoughts ... But, on the other hand, I also know that there are folks out there who aren't just confused on this matter, but who are actually going out of their way to destroy people's faith and trust in, not only the Bible, but in God Himself. As to those individuals, of whom I've described in chapter 1 of this book − that is, those who are wise in their own eyes, and who have a Pharisee spirit about them − then, I say, that they will never come to the knowledge of the truth [2 Timothy 3:7], no matter how hard they may try. And, yet, God can still help those folks if He so wishes to. But, unto those who have a pure heart (even if they are simply confused at the moment), then I say that the task ahead will not be one of too much difficulty if we try and keep an open mind; for, if we have a love for God, and a love and a desire to know the truth (simply because it can better our lives), then He will lead us and guide us into that truth very smoothly (even if slowly) − for such is His will, that all His true children will walk into the light of the knowledge of God [2 Corinthians 4:6] ... Not only so, but even if we continue to use a corrupted Bible Version (in saying that God just simply didn't deliver us from it, and we remained in ignorance of that fact), then I am certain that a person can still make it to be with God in the afterlife. After all, perfect Godly love is the core matter of life eternal, and not the usage of the correct Bible Version – even though the right version could teach us of that love in a clearer way. I'm confident, though, that God will lead His sheep into the directions that pleases Him – in not only choosing certain Bible Versions (which may be contrary to what we choose), but also to what church denominations that they decide to attend – whether we approve of that individual's movements or not. We need to be careful, therefore, on whom we judge unworthy ... I will be covering the reason why God allowed some supposed 'mistakes' (which, we will see, weren't really mistakes) to creep into our English translations (especially in the King James Version) in an upcoming End Note, for chapter 8, called: 'But, what is permissible for us, is the scrutinizing of these 'added' words...' Being of a similar topic (and actually completing this one – though, also, covering italicized words within translations), we will continue this discussion there, at this later End Note, which this present End Note has already begun speaking on...
*14. What is happening right now − today!...
In reference to us focusing on what's important for a Christian presently, let's consider the following verses ... Even though, technically, these verses were written about two thousand years ago (and some even older than that), the theme is the same − that is, on how God's children should focus on the here and now − and of their current walk with God. Remember, the only thing that exists for us is now. The past is gone and the future doesn't exist yet. This is what the teachers of the Bible were trying to have their students learn. Even though educated on the past, and alert to the future, they nevertheless threw greater importance onto the present:
James 4:13-14
Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
Luke 12:16-21
And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
Proverbs 27:1
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.
Hebrews 3:12-13
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
Romans 13:11
And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
Hebrews 3:6-8b
But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts...
*15. So that we'll be able to treat one another, in proper fashion, with agape love...
In fact, the main reason that we are made into His image, and obtain the Divine Nature (of which nature Peter speaks on in 2nd Peter 1:4) is so that we'll be able to treat one another with the proper respect, and with Godly Love − which the Greek refers to as Agape. A lot of folks believe that we try to better ourselves so that we can become better than anybody else. And, yet, the scriptures plainly teach us that we only better ourselves so that we can help others to come up unto that same position as we. That is, we become better by humbling ourselves, and by preferring others above us ... I fully cover this subject in my first book in my teaching series, called: "Brotherly Love: The Gospel of Jesus Christ."
*16. We know that God's ways are not our ways, and neither His thoughts ours...
Isaiah 55:8-9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
*17. The oppressor: which, in this case, was nothing more than their own carnal flesh...
One can certainly argue that this oppressor was the devil himself. But, since I don't want to get off onto that long trail here, in this book (for I will do so in great detail in a set of upcoming books − within the Seeking the Everlasting Gospel Teaching Series, entitled: "The Evil Side of Creation" − and especially in part 2 of that series, in the book entitled: Satan, the Devil, and Hell), I will simply say for the moment that it's not extremely important to identify the oppressor at this time − though, that's certainly not saying, in the least, that the subject itself is not important. This is just not the right book to discuss it, for that's not the direction, herein, that I am wanting to head. But, I will simply say that whomever or whatever he (or it) is, that he/it certainly wasn't good! But, too, it must be admitted that the King James Version does not simply say 'oppressor' in the singular sense, but does, instead, imply 'oppressors' in the plural − indicating more than one, showing that perhaps it's not a single Being doing this. And, even though both the J.P. Green translation and the New International Version agree with the plural usage of the word, one may actually see my point as non-important, seeing as somebody could easily throw in the speculation that they may have been the devil along with his demonic cronies in tow. Ironically, though, the original Hebrew word âshaq, that's translated as Oppressors, doesn't even indicate any Beings whatsoever.
Âshaq, H6231, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary:
A primitive root; to press upon, that is, oppress, defraud, violate, overflow: - get deceitfully, deceive, defraud, drink up, (use) oppress ([-ion], -or), do violence (wrong).
This simply indicates the 'action' of oppression; that is, it's the bad situations one will find themselves in rather than pointing a finger at any Being, showing us how the word 'oppressors' can be in the plural. But, even though this is the result of one oppressed, it certainly can be argued that it was caused by a Being in the first place – which can be true enough – and is a point that I wouldn't dispute in the least, as it shows us that some 'force' is actually behind these oppressions, leading us right back around to the argument of whom it may be. But, the fact remains that there can be many speculations as to whom or what, as I will certainly, and thoroughly, explore in my upcoming set of books (that is, 'The Evil Side of Creation"), where I will show why I'm pointing fingers at the flesh as the culprit; or, much rather, the fleshly knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of man.
*18. Nobody can without the comforter as their guide ... the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost...
Romans 8:9
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
Visit this upcoming book's official webpage: http://www.seekingthegospel.com/inthe...
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