In the context of (Isaiah 61:4) and (Ezekiel 36:33-36), the phrase “rebuild the ancient ruins” has both a literal and a symbolic meaning. In both passages, the authors describe a time of restoration and renewal for the people of Israel after a period of desolation, corruption of leadership throughout all aspects their society  leading to injustice and suffering.

After the death burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ these passages now speak to us. Just like it has spoken to previous periods in history leading up to modern day and will speak to future periods of time to come.

God Rebuilding The Ancient Ruins Has Personal, Societal & Global Benefits:

1. Restoration of faith and reverence in God (Isaiah 61:4): Rebuilding ancient ruins strengthens people’s belief in God and His divine power, leading to a more spiritually connected society.
2. Promotion of justice, righteousness, and compassion (Psalm 33:5): As ancient ruins are rebuilt, society will be guided by these core biblical principles, resulting in fair and equitable treatment for all.
3. Healing for individuals and communities (Isaiah 61:3): Rebuilding ancient ruins helps heal emotional, psychological, and spiritual wounds, fostering personal and communal growth.
4. Renewed sense of purpose and unity (Ephesians 4:3): Working together to rebuild ancient ruins fosters unity and collaboration, inspiring individuals to pursue a common purpose.
5. Preservation of cultural and historical heritage (Nehemiah 2:5): Rebuilding ancient ruins preserves invaluable cultural and historical legacies, providing a link to the past and enriching future generations.
6. Economic revitalization (Haggai 1:8): Rebuilding ancient ruins can spur economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for local communities.
7. Environmental benefits (Genesis 2:15): The responsible rebuilding of ancient ruins can promote sustainable development and stewardship of natural resources.
8. Strengthening of the family unit (Deuteronomy 6:7): As communities work together to rebuild ancient ruins, family bonds can be reinforced and the importance of family values emphasized.
9. Encouragement of repentance and spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:9): Witnessing the transformative power of God in rebuilding ancient ruins can inspire individuals to seek redemption, repentance, and spiritual growth.
10. Global impact (Matthew 28:19): The rebuilding of ancient ruins can serve as a powerful testimony to the love and mercy of God, inspiring people across the world to embrace biblical principles and work towards a more just, compassionate, and righteous society.

Ancient & Modern Parallels

Drawing parallels between the moral decline and corruption described in the book of Ezekiel and the challenges faced in contemporary American society, it is important to recognize that the Bible serves as the ultimate authority. Ezekiel offers a powerful and relevant message for today’s world, highlighting the consequences of corruption, perversion, and the abuse of power by corrupt parents, freind groups, husbands, wives & religious/political leaders.

Ezekiel condemns the leaders of his time for their failure to uphold God’s law, for engaging in idolatry, and for exploiting the vulnerable. This condemnation can be seen as a warning to those in power in modern society, who may also be guilty of moral corruption and deception. In both cases, God holds the religious and political elites accountable for their actions and calls for justice and righteousness to prevail.

God will judge the 21st century through Ezekiel archetypes and forgive through the blood of Jesus.

As we consider the prophetic message of Ezekiel, it is crucial to understand that God has the power to displace corrupt leaders and replace them with individuals who will act with integrity and compassion. From the highest office of the President to the heads of households, God can raise up new leaders who will guide society toward justice, equality, and moral responsibility. These leaders will work to rebuild the “ancient ruins,” restoring the spiritual and ethical foundations of society that have been devastated by corruption and moral decay that manifests in family relationships, friends, groups, clubs, religious settings and political settings.

This is not replacement theology. Israel is an example for all believers through the ages (past future & present).

Indeed, Israel serves as an example for believers, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 10:11. This verse emphasizes that the experiences of the Israelites were recorded as lessons for believers & societies to learn from, by guided by & apply in their own lives and policies.

Using Israel’s history as an example, believers can glean valuable insights into faith, obedience, and the consequences of disobedience. Through these lessons, Christians & societies can better understand the importance of staying true to God’s commandments and living a life that honors Him.

By recognizing Israel’s role as an example, believers & societies can grow in their spiritual journey & growth. Drawing from the experiences and wisdom of the Israelites’ history leads to relevant lessons and guidance for all of us today. Resulting in and understanding of God’s will and purpose for our lives.

It is important to note that the points mentioned previously are not promoting replacement theology. Instead, they highlight how Israel serves as an example for all believers throughout history (past, present, and future). The experiences and lessons learned from Israel can offer valuable insights for people of faith in various contexts.

Believe & Enter Rest So God Can Work & Rebuild The Ancient Ruins

In Hebrews 4, the author emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience, drawing on the example of the Israelites who were unable to enter God’s rest due to their disobedience and unbelief. By learning from Israel’s example, believers through all ages can remain faithful and obedient to God, thus experiencing the rest and peace that He promises.

So, the ideas presented are not about replacing Israel or its significance in God’s plan. Rather, they highlight the valuable lessons that can be drawn from Israel’s experiences, applicable to believers in all times and places, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to God’s word and His divine plan.

Addressing the Heart of Corruption Before Rebuilding the Ancient Ruins

Before we God can rebuild the ancient ruins though humanity, it is crucial to address the pervasive corruption and bad leadership that permeates all aspects of society today just like it did Israel. This article aims to dive deeper into the thoughts and intentions of the human heart, focusing on individuals who may appear righteous outwardly, but harbor darkness within. Jesus Himself warned against such hypocrisy when He said that even looking at a woman with lust is akin to committing adultery, and hating one’s brother without cause is equal to murder Matthew 5:28, 1 John 3:15.

Everyone is guilty but we all must carry our cross and strive to be better by being honest & letting God change us.

By exposing deceptive and manipulative behaviors, such as gaslighting & manipulation, we can begin to confront and dismantle the corrupt systems that hinder the restoration of the ancient ruins. This process requires honesty, introspection, and a commitment to living by biblical principles, recognizing that the Bible is the ultimate authority, not man or AI.

Change starts within each individual, as we genuinely repent and seek forgiveness for our hidden sins of the heart and mind Acts 3:19. As more people acknowledge their shortcomings and strive to follow God’s teachings, a ripple effect will occur, transforming the hearts and minds of society as a whole.

The process may be challenging and uncomfortable, but it is a necessary step toward healing and rebuilding. As we remove the rot that lies beneath the surface, the foundation for rebuilding the ancient ruins will become stronger, resulting in a society that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and righteousness.

We must first address the corruption and bad leadership that exist within the hearts of individuals before the ancient ruins can be rebuilt. By exposing hidden sins and embracing the transformative power of repentance and forgiveness, we can create a more just and righteous world, reflecting the love and mercy of our Creator.

Corrupt Patterns Exist Among Family, Friends, Parents & Religious/Political Leaders

Family:

Friends:

In today’s world, we witness numerous examples of bad leadership among friends that not only impact individuals but also society as a whole. It is crucial to recognize the influence of corrupt friends, groups & clubs that have detrimental effects on the lives of those they associate with. Friend groups often have an individual who sets the tone and makes decisions for the group. Unfortunately, some of these leaders manipulate and divide people within the group, seeking more power and influence. They may even engage in adulterous relationships, gossip, gaslghting & deformation in order to instill jealousy and promote their domination while ostracizing and downplaying others in the group (Proverbs 6:32).

Parents:

In today’s society, we see numerous examples of problematic religious and political leaders. Corrupt parents follow the same exact patterns.  For instance, corrupt parents who sacrifice their children’s well-being and future by engaging in manipulative, domineering, and belittling behaviors have caused untold trauma and lifelong psychological issues. These parents not only include those who advocate for abortion and gender confusion (that’s too obvious of a a problem to judge and address in this article) but rather many parents seem good, responsible & maybe go to church on Sunday, but they in reality perpetuate cycles of emotional and spiritual abuse, manipulation, gaslighting, sexualization, molestation & ostracization to their children & get away with it through domination and gaslighting. Drawing from the ultimate authority of the Bible, it is evident that these individuals have strayed from the path of righteousness, and their actions have far-reaching consequences.

Religious & Political Leaders:

Similarly, corrupt political and religious leaders exploit their positions of power to manipulate the masses and protect immoral actions. They promote destructive policies like abortion turning a blind eye & even promoting the sins that undermine the moral fabric of society. These leaders have lost sight of their duty to uphold justice, compassion, and righteousness, as taught by the Bible. Their actions sow discord and suffering, leaving communities in turmoil and despair.

Religious leaders include cult leaders, and these political leaders include people like Joe Biden but those examples too obvious of a a problem to judge and address in this article, let’s rather focus on the corrupt leaders that seem good and say all of the “right things” but in reality are corrupt. The obviously corrupt ones operate in the same patterns as the seemingly good one, the only difference is they are on a different part of the spectrum and/or are better at playing the game.

However, it is crucial to remember that, through the Grace of God, redemption is possible for both the victims and the perpetrators of such corruption. By acknowledging their sins and seeking forgiveness, individuals can embark on a path of healing and spiritual renewal. In this journey, they may find the strength to challenge the status quo, confront their own shortcomings, and work towards the betterment of themselves and their communities.

Let’s Rebuild The Ancient Ruins

As we strive to address the moral decay and the domineering gaslighting that pervades our society, let us not shy away from the harsh truths presented by the Bible. Instead, let us embrace its teachings, allowing them to guide us in our pursuit of justice, righteousness, and compassion. By doing so, we can “rebuild the ancient ruins” of our spiritual and ethical foundations, fostering a society that is truly reflective of God’s love and mercy.

But first we must address the problems at their root.

Why do family members do this to one another?

The bitter truth is that rivalries, driven by the desire for dominance and the privilege of carrying on the family name, can lead to corruption, ostracization, deceit, and gaslighting. Such dysfunction is deeply rooted in the sinful nature of humanity, as the Bible has repeatedly warned us James 4:1.

Indeed, the destructive consequences of family feuds are evident in biblical accounts such as the story of Cain and Abel Genesis 4:8, where jealousy led to the first murder in human history. This tragic example serves as a stark reminder that unchecked envy and strife within families can result in disastrous outcomes.

However, the Bible also offers hope and guidance for healing these rifts. Through repentance and forgiveness, family members can find reconciliation and restoration in God’s boundless love Colossians 3:13. By embracing biblical principles, families can overcome the destructive forces of jealousy, deceit, and rivalry that often tear them apart.

Ultimately, the key to mending broken family relationships is to turn to the ultimate authority: the Bible. By placing our faith in God’s teachings, we can find the strength and wisdom needed to resist the temptations of envy, deceit, and manipulation. Instead of perpetuating destructive patterns, we can choose to foster love, compassion, and forgiveness within our families.

To overcome the pain and damage caused by family rivalries and corruption, we must look to the Bible for guidance and direction. By recognizing the destructive nature of our actions and embracing the transformative power of God’s love, we can work together to create harmonious, supportive, and loving family environments, where every member is valued and cherished.

“Why Would Husbands do this to their Wives and Why Would Wives do this to Their Husbands?”

Deceptive behaviors can be deeply ingrained, and their roots aren’t always discernible at first glance. Wives, for instance, can fall into the trap of controlling and belittling their husbands, fueled by their own insecurities. This heartbreaking reality mirrors the disdain the adulteress shows towards her spouse, as depicted in Ezekiel 23. These actions are not only damaging to relationships, but they also stand in stark contrast to the biblical teachings that condemn such behavior, as seen in Revelation 2:20.

On the other hand, husbands, too, have been known to misuse the spiritual authority bestowed upon them. As highlighted in Ephesians 5:23, they are meant to lead with love, but some turn it into a tool for manipulation and control. These men become hyper-vigilant, mistrustful, and isolate their wives, fearing outside influences. This toxic dynamic can lead to a form of Stockholm Syndrome, where the wife tragically defends her oppressor.

In conclusion, our ultimate guide should always be love and mutual respect, as directed in Ephesians 4:2-3. It’s crucial to reject these corrupt practices, uphold biblical values, and strive for healthier relationships.

Why Would People Do This to their Own Friends & Groups?

A pressing question often arises when examining the actions of group leaders, friend leaders, and club leaders: why would they betray and manipulate their own friends and members? The answer, deeply rooted in human nature, can be traced back to their hunger for power and their fear of losing control. These leaders feel threatened by others who also have a purpose within the group, and their insecurities drive them to divide, cheat, and ostracize people in order to maintain their dominance (James 4:1-2).

The Bible, as the ultimate authority on morality and human behavior, offers insights into why individuals succumb to such selfish tendencies. In Proverbs 16:18, it warns against the perils of pride and arrogance, which can lead people to disregard the well-being of others in pursuit of their own interests. Additionally, Jesus taught that we should treat others as we would like to be treated, emphasizing the importance of empathy and compassion (Matthew 7:12).

Nevertheless, there is hope for those who recognize their wrongdoings and seek redemption. Through genuine repentance and a commitment to living according to God’s teachings, even the most misguided leaders can find forgiveness and transformation (1 John 1:9). By turning away from their selfish pursuits and embracing a life of humility and selflessness, they can begin to repair the damage inflicted upon their friends and members (Philippians 2:3-4).

It is vital that we understand the motivations behind the harmful actions of group leaders, friend leaders, and club leaders. By acknowledging the Bible’s authority and applying its teachings, we can work together to create a society where friendships and group dynamics are based on mutual respect, understanding, and love (Colossians 3:12-14). As we embrace the transformative power of God’s grace, we can overcome the challenges posed by selfish leaders and build stronger, more compassionate communities.

Why Would Parents Do This to their Own Children?

One might wonder why some parents would bring harm to their own children, inflicting emotional and psychological pain upon the most vulnerable in their care. Rooted in biblical teachings, the answer lies in the selfishness and unbridled lust (licentiousness: aselgeia| ἀσέλγεια | G766 | ) Jude 1:4 of these individuals, who prioritize their desires above the well-being of their offspring (Jude 1:4). The Book of Jude specifically warns against such behavior, highlighting the danger of Christian parents who turn the grace of God into licentiousness (unbridled lust) and defile themselves with their fantasies and “dreams”(Jude 1:8). These “dreams” (day dreams) usually include grandeur images of themselves and sexual fantasies of other men’s wives and even younger women.  (Jude 1:16).

On the outside these people seem responsible, loving, they go to church on Sunday, they provide for their family celebrate Christmas etc… But these people, driven by their insatiable desires, neglect their sacred responsibility to nurture, guide, and protect their children from spiritual and emotional harm, and exasperate it (Ephesians 6:4). They become blinded by their own self-interest, betraying the biblical principles of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7), compassion (Colossians 3:12), and selflessness (Philippians 2:4). This tragic situation not only harms the children directly affected but also weakens the moral fabric of society and undermines the sanctity of the family unit (Genesis 2:24).

Repentance & Forgiveness is Possible

Nevertheless, the Bible offers hope for those who seek redemption and change. Through genuine repentance (Acts 3:19) and a commitment to living according to God’s teachings, even the most wayward parents can find forgiveness and restoration (1 John 1:9). By turning away from their selfish pursuits and embracing a life of humility (1 Peter 5:5), self-sacrifice (Romans 12:1), and spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:18), they can begin to repair the damage inflicted upon their children and themselves. Many parents think because they pay for their children’s food and shelter that they are sacrificing enough. The reality is, manipulative parents leverage their provision over the child’s head and on the inside are sacrificing their children to Molech (Leviticus 18:21).

It is vital that we recognize the authority of the Bible in addressing the harsh reality of parental selfishness and its devastating effects on children. By embracing the transformative power of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8) and applying biblical principles to our lives, we can work together to build a society where families are strengthened, children are cherished, and the love of God prevails (Psalm 127:3).

Why Would Religious & Political Leaders Do This to the People They Are Supposed to Serve?

The question of why some religious and political leaders betray their duty to serve and protect their constituents is a deeply troubling one. Relying on the ultimate authority of the Bible, the answer can be found in their selfish pursuit of power, as described in 2 Peter 2:10. These leaders despise the authority of God and angels, believing themselves to be the ultimate authority, and succumbing to their own lusts for control and influence.

Such leaders forsake their moral compass, turning away from the teachings of the Bible, and prioritizing their personal ambitions above the needs of the people they have pledged to serve. They exploit their positions for personal gain, manipulating the vulnerable and disregarding the principles of justice (Micah 6:8), righteousness (Psalm 106:3), and compassion (Colossians 3:12). The consequences of their actions reverberate throughout society, eroding trust, and causing pain and suffering.

Some of These Leaders Can Repent & Change Still

Despite the harsh reality of their misdeeds, the Bible offers hope for redemption and transformation. For leaders who are willing to acknowledge their failings and turn to God’s teachings, there is the opportunity to embrace humility (1 Peter 5:5), repentance (Acts 3:19), and a renewed commitment to selfless service (Galatians 5:13). By doing so, they can begin to repair the damage they have inflicted and work towards fostering a society grounded in the values of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7), justice (Isaiah 30:18), and mercy (James 2:13).

It is essential to recognize the Bible’s authority in addressing the issue of selfish and corrupt religious and political leaders. By drawing on the wisdom of the Scriptures and embracing the power of God’s grace Ephesians 2:8, we can strive to create a world where leaders serve with integrity Proverbs 11:3 and compassion 1 Peter 3:8, fostering a society that is guided by the principles of justice, righteousness, and love Psalm 33:5.

What Is The Solution? How Will God Rebuild The Ancient Ruins?

In the face of moral decay and societal challenges, one might ask what the solution is and how God will rebuild the ancient ruins. Drawing from the Bible’s ultimate authority, the answer lies in God’s divine intervention and the transformative power of repentance and forgiveness. God will expose and judge evil, as stated in multiple scriptures, while Jesus will forgive those who genuinely repent Romans 5:20. The desire of God is that none should perish, as expressed in 2 Peter 3:9. However, for those who refuse to repent, the Bible warns of the deepest darkness reserved forever Jude 1:13.

Furthermore, Jesus promises to heal the people who have been treated unjustly and to raise them up from the ashes, making them the head and not the tail Isaiah 61:3. This restoration will not be achieved through their own power but through the power of God, enabling them to overcome adversity and fulfill their God-given potential. This divine intervention will serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to God’s love and mercy, inspiring others to seek the same redemption and healing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the solution to rebuilding the ancient ruins lies in embracing the teachings of the Bible and relying on the authority of God. By recognizing the consequences of sin and the transformative power of Jesus’s blood, repentance and forgiveness, we can work together with the power of God to create a society that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and righteousness. As individuals and communities are healed and restored through the power of God, the ancient ruins will be rebuilt, and the world will witness the enduring love and mercy of the Creator Isaiah 61:4.

The post God’s Promise To Rebuild The Ancient Ruins appeared first on Reese Irish.

I believe the LORD Jesus is coming back very soon as The Lion described in The Book of Revelation.

Weather we are in the final, final, final generation before the 1,000 year reign of Jesus on earth or not I do not know.

I do believe however we are are in the final hour of this generation.

Ever since Jesus died an rose form the dead He ushered us into the Church age.

I believe that in the Church age every generation goes through a type and pattern of the the Return of The LORD Jesus according the firmament of that given generation.

We are in a seed war…. God’s seed vs. Satan’s seed.

We are in the days of Noah.

In the days of Noah there where fallen angels that planted their seeds (satan’s seed) into fallen humans and create children (fruit) of the devil, known as giants (nephilm).

In the old covenant these giants were physical, giant hybrid humans that oppose God’s people and the LORD Himself.

Today, under the new covenant, I believe these giants are working through normal sized humans that have received fallen angels’ seeds by worshipping baal & practicing unbridled indulgences of sexual immorality in their minds, hearts and souls that give birth to nephilim.

No joke! Read Jude…

“For certain persons have crept in unnoticed, those who were long beforehand marked out for this condemnation, ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. [5] Now I desire to remind you, though you know all things once for all, that the Lord, after saving a people out of the land of Egypt, subsequently destroyed those who did not believe. [6] And angels who did not keep their own domain, but abandoned their proper abode, He has kept in eternal bonds under darkness for the judgment of the great day, [7] just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the cities around them, since they in the same way as these indulged in gross immorality and went after strange flesh, are exhibited as an example in undergoing the punishment of eternal fire.”

Jude 1:4-7 NASBS

The Lord will destroy these enemies with strong vengeance upon His appearance & Revelation as the Lion rathe than the Lamb.

LORD Jesus we pray for our enemies that they repent and be saved by Your TRUTH and LIGHT, AMEN!

This generation will not pass until these things come to pass:

2 Peter 2:2-11 NASBS

Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; [3] and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. [4] For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to pits of darkness, reserved for judgment; [5] and did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, with seven others, when He brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; [6] and if He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction by reducing them to ashes, having made them an example to those who would live ungodly lives thereafter; [7] and if He rescued righteous Lot, oppressed by the sensual conduct of unprincipled men [8] (for by what he saw and heard that righteous man, while living among them, felt his righteous soul tormented day after day by their lawless deeds), [9] then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from temptation, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment, [10] and especially those who indulge the flesh in its corrupt desires and despise authority. Daring, self-willed, they do not tremble when they revile angelic majesties, [11] whereas angels who are greater in might and power do not bring a reviling judgment against them before the Lord.

2 Peter 3:3-7 NASBS

Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, [4] and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” [5] For when they maintain this, it escapes their notice that by the word of God the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and by water, [6] through which the world at that time was destroyed, being flooded with water. [7] But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men.

2 Peter 3:10-12 NASBS

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. [11] Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, [12] looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat!

Introduction & Overview of This Article

Eschatology, the study of the end times, often sparks various opinions among believers, often leading to division rather than the unity and encouragement it’s meant to foster, as pointed out in 1 Thessalonians 4:18.

This article seeks to reconcile four popular eschatological views:

1. Preterist
2. Historicist
3. Futurist
4. Idealist

All four mirror a dimension of time in relation to biblical prophecy and reflecting the immutable nature of Jesus Christ, as emphasized in Hebrews 13:8.

My aim here is to enrich our engagement with the Scriptures and deepen our connection with God by promoting a collective understanding of eschatology. As some misinterpreted Jesus’ words about raising the temple in three days, referring to His body rather than a physical building (John 2:19-21), today’s believers can become divided by not recognizing the multi-layered symbolism, analogies and physical realties in spoken of in the Bible & the book of Revelation.

Timeless & Evergreen Words Of The Bible (God’s Seed)

John’s message to the early churches was a timeless one, revealing Christ as the one who was, is, and is to come (Revelation 1:1, Revelation 1:4), echoing the everlasting reign promised to David’s throne (Psalm 89:4).

Understanding the interconnectedness of the different eschatological perspectives allows us to grasp a fragment of the broader truth. It’s when these views are isolated and pinned against each other that “group think” arises, creating divisions within the body of Christ. While some may not acknowledge the impact of their eschatological views on fellowship, indifference and a lack of motivation to pursue a shared truth can lead to division. By recognizing that the Preterist, Historicist, and Futurist views articulate the deeds of Christ in diverse eras and layers we can see a more united vision together as on church

We are encouraged to view eschatology not as a source of contention but as a complex revelation meant to unite us in a profound understanding of God’s word and His divine plan.

The Book of Revelation is Written by Design in Layers

The reason there is sometimes division concerning eschatological discussions is the lack of knowledge. I believe Revelation is written in layers. John (the writer of Revelation) clearly says in Revelation 1:1 that the book of Revelation is a Revelation of Jesus Christ… the one who WAS, who IS and who IS TO COME (Revelation 1:4). (3 layers 1. Past, 2. Present, 3. Future).

John wrote this letter to the churches specific to that generation. But because it is written in layers it is a timeless prophetic book that is relevant from generation to generation, just like the throne of David. Psalm 89:4

4 Prevalent Ideas That Divide The Church

Into Particular “Group Thinks”

Notice how our eschatological division is divided by the 3 inseparable truths of time ( past, present, and future)?

1. Preterist – The events in described in the book of Revelation happened in the past (He was.) (70 A.D.)
2. Historicist – Events described in Revelation are in the present. (He is.)
3. Futurist (Dispensationalism) – Most of the events of Revelation are in the future. (He is to come.)
4. Idealist – Most events in Revelation are symbolic and should not be taken literally. (Interpretation.)

All 4 views compliment each other. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and the ages to come (Hebrews 13:8). 

The Preterist, Historicist, Futurist, and Idealist Views Are Synergistically Layered

Each View Is True in Some Ways But Cannot Stand Alone

The great news here is, that everyone in each camp is right to a certain extent. But when we separate these 4 viewpoints and pin them against each other it forms  “group think”. 

You may be thinking; “I don’t let my eschatological views get between me and my church family.” That sounds nice, but that is not true. The apathetic attitude and lack of motivation to get on the same page about the truth is exactly what the enemy wants.

“The Preterist, Historicist and Futurist view speaks of Jesus in the Past, Present and Future and the Idealist view is the glue that brings them all together.”

How Each View Has Profound Truth:

1. Preterist (Fulfilled in the Past)- Jesus said this generation shall not pass until these “things” happened (Matthew 24:34). When Jesus said this He was talking to the people alive in that generation. He was warning them of things that would come to pass in their day. And they did. Judaism & the Temple was destroyed and humanity was ushered into a new age of grace and the dispensation of the Holy Spirit.
2. Historicist (Being fulfilled in the Present)- Jesus is here and with us now (Matthew 18:20). During the Church Age, we have been receiving fresh revelations of Jesus through the generations according to the patterns of the book of Revelation. (continue reading to find out how)
3. Futurist (Will be fulfilled in the Future)- We are waiting for prophecies to be fulfilled. i.e The temple being re-built in Israel to set the stage for the Anti Christ to proclaim to be God in the temple and the coming tribulation period (2 Thessalonians 2:4) and (Revelation 13).
4. Idealist (Symbolic Events and Metaphors)- When the bible refers to the temple it is referring to the Temple destroyed in 70 A.D. our bodies (John 2:19) and the temple to be rebuilt in Israel in the near future. This clarifies the fact that the bible is written in layers and that both are simultaneously true.

The Man Of Lawlessness Revealed

One day in Israel, the antichrist will take his seat in the temple of God and proclaim to be God. Over 2,000 years ago John said it is the “last hour” and the antichrist is coming and many antichrists have already come (1 John 2:18).

Clearly, the Bible teaches this truth is in our past. In fact, this happened in the past in the physical temple when Antiochus Epiphanies sacrificed pigs to Zeus in the temple. This event was called the abomination of desolation. But because our bodies are temples and there will be a temple built in Israel again; this truth is simultaneously in our present and our future.

If you read (2 Thessalonians 2:1-17) you will learn about the man of lawlessness (antichrist) who will exalt himself above all things that are worshiped and take his seat in the temple of God proclaiming to be God.

This happened in the past in the physical temple when Antiochus Epiphanies sacrificed pigs to Zues in the temple. This event was called the abomination of desolation. This happened before Jesus was born. And Jesus said it would happen again in His day and that it was near when His disciples saw the armies surrounding Jerusalem.

Many, (including myself) deal with the man of sin in our temple. Thank you Jesus for your Blood! We keep a close eye on Israel waiting for the temple to be rebuilt, waiting for events to be fulfilled in Israel. We are waiting and watching, studying, listening to sermons, and watching YouTube videos about this future truth, it’s exciting!

But what’s even more exciting, convicting, and personally relevant today is the fact that our bodies are the temple of God and in our sin, we sometimes take our seat as “God” in that temple.

Jesus Truly is our REAL TREASURE in Fallen Vessels

John says that sin is lawlessness (1 John 3:4). We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. If we took the sermon on the mount seriously we would clearly see that we take our seat in the temple as God when we sin and hold unjust judgments against one another. We go against God’s law and make ourselves out to be God when we do our own thing. If you say you have no sin, you are a liar (1 John 1:8).

Remember though, where sin abounds grace superabounds (Romans 5:20). Look at Peter, He rebuked Jesus when He was speaking of His own crucifixion. Jesus then said “…get behind me Satan…” (Matthew 16:23). Clearly, at that moment Peter’s temple was working for Satan and the man of sin. But obviously, He was forgiven and is now seen as one of the best disciples ever! Talk about great grace and glory. The same applies to us.

Don’t Miss The Meaning Of The Word “Temple” As The Pharisees Did

In John 2:19 Jesus said if anyone would destroy this temple He would raise it again in 3 days. The Bible is written in layers the word temple refers to our individual bodies, the collective body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12), and the temple that is to be built in Israel in the future.

Romans 8:7 is clear about how carnal minds are hostile to God which is why the Sadducees and Pharisees ended up slandering Jesus concerning what He said about “the temple” (Mark 14:56-59). Jesus said He would rebuild (raise) the temple in 3 days. Sadducees and Pharisees slandered Jesus about the way He spoke about the temple.

Sign Of The End: The Destruction of The Temple

In Mark 13 Jesus says that one of the signs of the end will be the destruction of the temple. This prophecy was fulfilled in the past (70 A.D). It has also been fulfilled millions of times during the last 2,000 years because millions of people have died (temples destroyed) every day. Meaning many of God’s temples are destroyed in the present. And the temple that will be built in Israel will also be destroyed in the future.

The temple in Jesus’ day, the temple of Israel’s future, and the temple of our bodies follow the same patterns that are laid out in the Bible in the form of layers through historical events, symbolic language, and prophetic events in the future. They do not contradict one another, they complement each other.

But Jesus is the God of Resurrection where all men will resurrect from the dead and we will worship Him forever in new bodies and a new temple.

Son Of Man Coming In The “Clouds”

Mark 13 talks about the signs of the end times. Mark 13:26 says the Son of Man will be seen in the clouds with great glory. In the final generation of humanity, we will literally see Jesus coming in the physical clouds.

But in the meantime, there is a spiritual meaning to the word “cloud”. Hebrews 11 lists the great characters of faith throughout the Bible. Then in Hebrews 12:1 the author says that those great characters mentioned in Hebrews 11 are currently a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us.

Clearly, there is a spiritual meaning to the word cloud. Although we are waiting for the Son Of Man to come in the physical clouds for the ultimate return of Jesus Christ to reign on earth for 1,000 years. There is a clear meaning to the word clouds that were relevant when Hebrews 11 & 12 were written and is still relevant today.

Many people have experienced Jesus coming to them in the spiritual clouds of their personal life, judging the man of lawlessness who took seat in the temple of God (their body). This is how we get saved and sanctified and is how we get fresh revelations of Jesus. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

Then reigned in their life for 1 day. Remember 1 day is 1,000 years and 1,000 years is as a day with the Lord (2 Peter 3:8). More proof the Bible is written in layers.

Let The Bible Interpret The Bible

Because the Bible is literal, metaphoric, symbolic, physical, and spiritual we can see that there are many layers and meanings we can draw from Jesus’s and the apostle’s words. The Bible is not open to private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20). The Bible can certainly be interpreted by the Bible though.

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