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Questions and Answers

May 7, 2016

Last week we posted on an example of restoration of the truth concerning the 120 disciples. This week we’d like to address some questions that may arise in the minds of some who would like more examples of the Elijah restoration.

1.If Victor Houteff was the Elijah to come and he was the one to restore all things then how can it be that he can restore the prophesied pre-millenial kingdom when he has died?

This question is a fair one and needs to be addressed. First, the Scriptures show that the anti-typical David is to rule in the upcoming kingdom based in the holy land. We know that just as The Elijah to come was not to be the original Elijah but the anti-type man, so too the David to come will be an anti-type man. Several Scriptures point out this promise of the anti-type David coming and ruling in the pre-mil kingdom. Though this study is quite deep and extensive, we shall give a condensed version.

“.. the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured nor numbered; and it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them,You are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, You are the sons of the living God.

Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered together, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great shall be the day of Jezreel.” (Hosea 1:10-11)

“Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.” (Hosea 3:5)

“And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even My servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd. And I the Lord will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I the Lord have spoken it.”(Ezek.34:23-24)

Knowing the above prophecies we then know that Spirit of Prophecy shows that there shall be a special resurrection of the faithful SDA servants of God–

“Your work, my work, will not cease with this life. For a little while we may rest in the grave, but, when the call comes, we shall, in the kingdom of God, take up our work once more.” (Testimonies, vol. 7, p.17)

Brother Houteff has accomplished his first part of the Elijah duties and that was to warn us about the Lord’s next move–His surprise coming (“Suddenly”-Mal. 3:1) to our SDA church for the “great and dreadful day of the Lord.” The Rod writings have enabled us to know the Lord’s requirements- our present truth. Once the trumpet sounds and those faithful servants arise, then it is that Victor Houteff, many present truth believers believe, will lead the flock based from the land of Israel, the Loud Cry headquarters. This second part of Elijah’s duties will be the setting up of this pre-mil kingdom and the subsequent Loud Cry message to all the world. Isaiah 66:15 -20 is an excellent read for a short synopsis of this.

2. What are some practical applications of the Elijah restoration?

There are many but we shall address two that come to mind. Communion and Alcohol. In both of these the Lord made sure that they were restored to the correct observance. While reading these instructions, let us keep in mind that truth is ever unfolding and that our instructions change as our time in the Lord’s master time clock changes. For instance, prior to the Lord’s coming, if one was caught in adultery they were to be stoned. Yet when our Lord came he changed that truth and no longer was this the Lord’s instructions (John 8:7). Multiple wives , while not specifically approved, was tolerated until the Lord came and restored the one man-one wife lifestyle (Matt 19:4-6).

Communion — “And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, “This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.”(Luke 22:19)

But we also have this statement- “Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.” (1 Cor. 11:27-29)

So what to do? How can we harmonize these Inspired references? That is why the Elijah was sent! Let us read.

WHAT ABOUT COMMUNION SERVICE?

Question No. 120:

Should believers who are well established in the message, celebrate the communion service when they meet together?

Answer:

As to authorizing the communion service in our own midst, we believe that since we all, as Seventh-day Adventists, have defiled ourselves as did the Jews at Christ’s first appearing (The Desire of Ages, p. 104) and since this sacred service works damnation to those who unworthily receive it (1 Cor. 11: 29), therefore we dare not now, as Davidians, take unto ourselves its hallowed privilege until as a people our lives bear convincing evidence of our repentance from the Laodicean condition.

The lesson in not authorizing this blessed service in our midst at this time, is inversely parallel to that which John the Baptist taught in ordaining and insisting upon the baptismal service then; that is, John’s instituting the baptismal service then, showed that the Jews were not ready to meet their King, and the Rod’s not instituting the communion service now, shows that neither are we ready to meet our King, and that we must therefore quickly repent from our lukewarmness, buy the “eyesalve,” and anoint our eyes. Then we shall gloriously celebrate the communion service, and the shame of our nakedness will not appear (Rev. 3:18).

Those who do not sense this great need are yet blind to the church’s undone condition, and to the Lord’s holiness. Just a firm outward faith in the message is not enough; its inward work in our lives is the all-essential and supreme work that must take place in the lives of all of us before we can conscientiously and profitably celebrate the Lord’s supper. Let us hasten that glad day. (Answerer, vol. 5, p.39-40)

This instruction is often a difficult one because when the service is on going and we sit there and pass on it, it can be viewed as odd or even rebellious. Yet as shown we are not fit for taking the Lord’s body and blood due to the fact that we corporately are in a woeful “undone” condition as the prophet explained.

Alcohol — “No longer drink water exclusively, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.” (1 Tim. 5:23)

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” (Proverbs 20:1)

“Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress;” (Proverbs 31:6)

“Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”(Nehemiah 8:10)

“Whoredom, wine, and new wine, which take away the understanding.” (Hosea 4:11)

These are not all the Scriptures that speak of alcohol but upon reading the above there is no doubt one can become confused with the drinking of alcohol, particularly–wine. Is a little wine good for us? Or is this something we should avoid? Again the Lord’s restoring message does not fail us–

“Are you still insulting God by asking His blessing on the table upon which stands the enslaving and injurious pepper shaker, mustard can, spice boxes, and vinegar pitcher? And do you still have to confess shameful addiction to liquor, tobacco, coffee, tea, cocoa, chocolate, or soda fountain drinks..” (Sym. Code, vol. 2, no. 11, p.3)

Question No. 150:

As the Davidian Seventh-day Adventist Association does not have a formal membership what evidence can one give to identify himself as a member of the organization? And how can he establish the length of time he has been with it?

Answer:

One’s support of the timely Davidian message, and his living out its principles (baptism, Sabbath observance along with the rest of the ten commandments, vegetarianism, dress reform total abstinence from tobacco and alcoholic beverages, and all else contained in the Spirit of Prophecy), are the truest witnesses of his affiliation, and the only genuine visible certification of the fact. These are the only absolutely convincing evidences of one’s worthiness to membership in the Davidian Seventh-day Adventist Association.

In the following reference, the message confirms no use of alcohol by way of quoting Spirit of Prophecy.

Question No. 10:

“Shall we still continue the use of milk, eggs, and butter?”

Answer:

“We bear positive testimony against tobacco, sprirituous liquors, snuff, tea, coffee, flesh-meats, butter, spices, rich cakes, mince pies, a large amount of salt, and all exciting substances used as articles of food.” — “Testimonies for the Church,” Vol. 3, p. 21. (Sym. Code, vol. 2, p.2)

So we see that the message restores us in not allowing alcohol to be any part of our life.

3. Does not the Lord tell us in Matt.11:13 that there was to be prophets only up to John the Baptist? He was to be the last prophet so how can we believe any one can be a legitimate prophet since then?

“Prophesied Until John.” Matt. 11:13.

If the aforequoted scripture means that there were to be no more prophets after John, then there should have been none since that time. And were this the meaning, then the Scriptures would contradict themselves, for they bear evidence that while Christ was the Son of God, He was also “a prophet.” Luke 24:19. And although John the Baptist never wrote a single prophetic utterance, yet he was rated by Christ with the greatest of the prophets (Luke 7:28). Also Matthew, Mark, and Luke, under the Spirit of Inspiration, wrote concerning Christ and His work. Likewise John, Peter, and Paul, and others contemporary with them, prophesied in their own right of many things to come. All these are Scripturally accorded the title “prophet.”

Jesus Himself testifies that the book of Revelation is a prophecy, for the angel “who bare record of the Word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw” says: “Blessed is he that readeth and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” Rev. 1:2, 3. “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book.” Rev. 22:18.

Now the fact that this prophecy was written nearly a century after John the Baptist was beheaded, is historical acknowledgment that the prophets did not cease with him. Thus in misconstruing Matthew 11:13 so as to make John the last of the prophets, the opposition is attempting to substitute for the gift of prophecy in the Christian era, “private” (uninspired) interpretations of the Scriptures. And in doing this, they are led either to ignore or to try to explain away the irrefutable statement of Paul: “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues” (1 Cor. 12:28) — absolute evidence that the second of the eight gifts to the church in the Christian era, is prophets. (Tract 6, p.5-6)

4. In the Elijah message is there one publication which has the bulk of the restoring instructions in it?

Yes, and that can be found in the publications called “The Answerer”. This addressed many prophetic areas of the message but also dealt with practical areas as well (particularly volumes 4 and 5). People from all over the world wrote to brother Houteff and the chosen questions were addressed. For example one of the questions was – “Are dolls idols?” Another was “Is it wrong to carry Insurance?”.

For the link to read the complete 5 books of the Answerer, click here– http://shepherds-rod.org/answerers/index%20answerer.html

In closing, we should be so grateful that many things which the Lord knew we needed to get straight about is found in His Elijah message. All we need to do is start reading and then putting it in practice! Amen.

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An Example of Restoration– the 120 Disciples

April 30, 2016

One of the most heart warming scenes in all the Bible is that of the gathering of the 120 disciples. In Acts 1:15 we read–

“And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)..” (Acts 1:15)

As we can see the Word says that there were “about an hundred and twenty”. So this Word has been left with us for centuries in that we are not sure just how many came together that fateful day. But our Lord knew that someday all things would be “restored”. Let us now take a look at an important restoration from the Lord’s promised Elijah.

Before we do that let us remember our Lord’s promise–

Jesus replied, “Elijah does indeed come, and he will restore all things.(Matt.17:11)

A promise is made that the Elijah to come will restore all things. But what does this mean? Let us turn to the Elijah message itself–

“..since Elijah is to herald the great day, he can therefore be the only one who will rightly interpret the prophecies of the day, which are still mysteries to Christendom, and even to our own Denomination! Indeed, to reiterate, it is for this very reason that the prophet is sent. He is to unroll the scroll to explain what the day of the Lord is like, what the Lord will do then, and how we may survive His judgments.

To re-emphasize the fact, let it be said again that being the last of the prophets Elijah is, therefore, the only one who can open to our understanding all the prophecies of the Scriptures pertaining to the great and dreadful day of the Lord — prophecies which heretofore have been only mysteries to all. Thus he is, as the Scriptures say, to blow the trumpet in Zion, and to sound an alarm in God’s holy mountain, in the church.

In doing all this, he sets in motion the Power that is to restore all things. Hence Christ’s positive declaration: “Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.” Matt. 17:11. Inevitably, then, without his message we would die in our ignorance and in our sins — never live to see the restoration completed. (General Conference Special , p.19-20)

So we see that the restoration is

1. Understanding the prophecies of this day (even those previously unknown in Christendom)

2. To know what the Lord will do and how we can survive His upcoming judgments

3. Sound a warning through out God’s church of the Lord’s next move

4. Brings a message we must heed or be left to die in ignorance and in our sins

So in regard to no. 1 we shall now take a look at the understanding of the 120 disciples, and why it’s an important restoration.

As we noted in the top referenced quote, the Word says “about 120 disciples”. Yet the message shows us the straight fact about this number, Let us read–

“To get into the full beam of light, we must first face the fact that the pre-pentecostal harvest took place in a self-deceived church, the Jewish; and through miracle-working power manifested by Christ Himself, it yielded the 120 disciples, the first fruits of those who are to be resurrected. Whereas the post-pentecostal harvest took place among the nations; and through miracle-power manifested by the Spirit-filled 120 disciples, it yielded an innumerable multitude of converts to Christianity (Acts 2:41, 47), the second fruits of those who are to be resurrected.” (TG, vol. 2, no.46, p.27-28)

Ah, we see that the message declares it to be -120 disciples, not “about 120 disciples”! Some may say –so what’s the big deal about this? It is because the 120 disciples represent the “type” of the 144,000, which is the anti-type. And some present truth believers use this word “about” to justify that the Lord will seal more than 144,000 from the remnant church.

Again the message illuminates about the 120–

Now to summarize the types before the Pentecost: (1) the first fruits were numbered; (2) they came exclusively from the church itself; (3) the miracles then wrought were by Christ Himself.

Now coming to the types after the Pentecost: (1) the second fruits were not numbered; (2) they came from the nations; (3) the miracles then wrought were by the numbered ones (the 120), the first fruits.

Accordingly, the antitypical Pre-pentecostal harvest takes place in a self-deceived church, the Laodicean, “the house of God”; and through miracle-working power manifested by Heaven itself in the angels (Matt. 13:39), it yields the 144,000, the first fruits of those who are never to die. Whereas the antitypical post-pentecostal harvest takes place among the nations; and through miracle-working power manifested by the Spirit-filled 144,000, it yields the great multitude which no man can number (Rev. 7:9), the second fruits, of those who are never to die. (TG, vol. 2, no. 46, p.28)

In the first fruit harvest how many in type composed the church? 120 disciples or “about” 120 disciples? 120 disciples. Thus the restoration message corrects our understanding that there were 120 , no more and no less and the same with the anti-type–there will 144,000, no more and no less. As we just read “the house of God”..yields the 144,000. Not 144,000 and some others but–144,000.

I often tell this personal story concerning the knowledge of 144,000 surviving the first fruit harvest of the church. Before the knowledge of the truth of the 144,000, if someone would have said to me “Rob, you know there will only be 144,000 sealed from the SDA church in the upcoming church purification.” I would say “What are you talking about?? No way , c’mon, there is close to 18 million in our church, no way.”

Now, as the message of Elijah has revealed , through its myriad of lessons and Scriptures, the real truth of the 144,000, I often say , “Lord will there really be that many??” You see once conversion takes place and the Lord’s sealing message is learned and obeyed, we do indeed see sin for what it truly is– deadly sin! Thus we see the church as the Lord sees it, in desperate need of Him. After all He is the real “Restorer.”

Once again the beauty of the words of the Spirit of Prophecy guides us —

“The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and the salvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They will always be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people.

This is forcibly set forth by the prophet’s illustration of the last work under the figure of the men each having a slaughter weapon in his hand. One man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer’s inkhorn by his side. “And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.”(Testimonies, vol. 3, p.266)

In closing my brothers and sisters, the restoring message is truly a beautiful thing to know. First we see that the truths we need are restored, such as the truth of the 120 disciples-our type, then the earthly pre-millennial kingdom will be set up, thus restoring “all things” as the Lord said.

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Truth in the Sanctuary

April 2, 2016

A couple of weeks ago at the local church’s Friday night vespers study, this servant was able to give a study in present truth. It was a short study on the Revelation 12 prophecy. As many of us know we are told by Inspiration that we must have “present truth” now.

“There are many precious truths contained in the Word of God, but it is “present truth” that the flock needs now.”(Early Writings, page 63)

What is noteworthy and remarkable is how the Lord has opened doors for such powerful truth to come into His house at this late hour. Many of us, especially us Elijah messengers, know very well that the Lord’s important present truth prophetic lessons are rarely spoken of in His church today.

There was many reasons why this occurrence developed. Let us look at this latest development.

We know that our adversary is pulling out all stops to prevent God’s remnant church from getting the all important seal in their foreheads.

Much of the credit goes to the fact that our current pastor is of a “Burean” spirit. The Bureans as we recall were a people who did not scoff nor smugly disregard “new truth”.

“Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11)

Pastor A, we’ll call him, has received many things with an open mind and a searchable spirit. As such our email studies and in-person studies have been one of mutual benefit. It has been quite refreshing to experience such willingness to “love the Truth” by a SDA leader. Now, contrast this from my last church.

The leaders there were proudly “rich and increased with goods”. New light/truth was something they were not interested in. “We have it all, we don’t need any more truth, let’s just rehash all the old truths and we’re good to go.” This was their attitude.

The Spirit of Prophecy is too clear to misunderstand —

“New light will ever be revealed on the word of God to him who is in living connection with the Sun of Righteousness. Let no one come to the conclusion that there is no more truth to be revealed. The diligent, prayerful seeker for truth will find precious rays of light yet to shine forth from the word of God. Many gems are yet scattered that are to be gathered together to become the property of the remnant people of God.” (Counsels to writers and editors, p.35)

So that week prior to the appointment to give the study, I prayed and supped(Rev.3:20) with the Lord on what to speak about. A brother, a fellow Elijah messenger, mentioned that I should do the Revelation 13, “beast” prophecy. But as I dwelled on that, even to the point of searching more out on that propehcy , something did not click.

What came to me was that the Rev. 13 prophecy is more complicated and therefore with the short time I had scheduled in (about 30-45 minutes) I figured I could not properly cover it. So later the bell sounded–Revelation 12!

This seemed the ideal topic because it is relatively short and easily understood. It’s a beautiful story of how the Lord takes back His church from the “Dragon” who tries to over run the church with his “flood”, ie. unconverted so-called Christians, within God’s remnant church.

Prior to speaking , the pastor and I went into a small room and prayed. Those prayers were heard and answered! As I began to speak and not being accustomed to speaking publicly, I was alittle tight and uneasy. But as the study progressed the Spirit began to guide and the words came forth that were to be spoken.

Once the study concluded my wife and I handed out supplemental papers on this Rev. 12 study so that they could further review what was said about it.

Back to the point of the Pastor. The Spirit of Prophecy makes a startling statement —

“Unless the ministers are converted, the people will not be.” (Testimonies, vol. 4, p.445)

Once we have a leader (Pastor or Head Elder) who shows that they love the Truth more than anything else, we stand on good ground that the flock is in good hands. Now, contrast this will a uncoverted Pastor or Head Elder.

I left the prior church about 1 and half years ago because I could see the writing on the wall. The church, headed by the Pastor, was stuck in slow gear and often–neutral! And to confirm that Inspiration is spot on with the above quote, the current pastor was responsible for bringing into the church sanctuary serious abominations. See this post — https://godsloveandlaw.com/2016/01/02/a-sda-christmas-celebration/

And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?(Ezek. 34:1-2)

Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, that you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture; and to drink of clear water, that you must muddy the rest of the water with your feet?’As for My flock, they must eat what you tread down with your feet and drink what you foul with your feet!'”(Ezek.34:18-19)

Despite the many shepherds who are “feeding themselves” within our beloved SDA church today, there exists some who are willing to “listen” to the Truth and for this we can truly praise the Lord. Being an Elijah messenger it really brings true joy to be able to go up before the people and give present truth, which the flock is hungering for. I can tell you not one person was asleep during the vespers study.

During the day, prior to that evening’s service, my wife and I spoke about what I’d speak about. In our conversation she mentioned that she could record the presentation but I told her no, as I did not want attention drawn to myself. To look like the presentation was rehearsed or set up for a certain purpose. But once I got up and began she said that the “Holy Spirit told me to do it” so it was recorded. So pray for this servant’s ministry that the Lord will continue to open doors so that His final message to us will go before the people, enlightening and encouraging, helping them to “stand ” in the”great and dreadful day of the Lord.”

May the Lord’s word arouse us and guide us!

The Rev. 12 study — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9q2xzskHR8

Posted in Proper teachings, Witnessing | 3 Comments »

Hard and Difficult Questions

March 12, 2016

The Jews of old were no dummies. Many of the Pharisees and scribes were very smart men. They posed tough questions to the King and he squared them away in thorough fashion.

Some of the questions were meant as a form of entrapment. Lawyers, Negotiators, Army generals and even all kinds of evil doers down through history have used this ploy to catch their victim one way or another. But it is even more amazing to see it backfire! Our King turned the tables beautifully when the Pharisees tried to entrap Him with supposed difficult questions.

“And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and authority of the governor.And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of any, but teachest the way of God truly: Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Caesar, or no?

But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me? Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said, Caesar’s. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar’s, and unto God the things which be God’s. And they were unable to catch Him in a saying in the presence of the people; and being amazed at His answer, they became silent.” (Luke 20: 20-26)

In many of the questions asked of our very last prophet sent to our church,Victor Houteff, they were hard and difficult.

The following are a few questions where the questions demanded a solid answer to clear it. May you be blessed.

Question No. 157:

“I am convinced that ‘The Shepherd’s Rod’ is not the message of the hour, because I believe that when a message comes from God, it will not make a separation among His people. You agree with my logic, do you not?

Answer:

To try to convince the questioner by a long-drawn-out article with proofs from the Scriptures, is needless, for the question reveals that the person is not acquainted with past church history. Therefore, the best way to answer his query is to ask him to tell us the number of times God has sent messages to His church that they made neither trouble nor separation among His people. If facts prove his answer, to be in favor of this question, then of course, as Christians, we must change our position, and admit that the SRod is not a message from God. But if past church history, disproves his logic, then, of course, we shall expect from him, as an honest Christian and a seeker for truth, a letter of confession, stating that his logic has not refuted the SRod.

The SRod message according to Ezekiel’s prophecy, chapter Nine and “Testimonies to Ministers,” p. 445, is to accomplish nothing else but to separate the people in the church!

Thus the fact that the message of the SRod brings a separation in the church, is another proof that it is a message from God. (Sym. Code, vol. 3, no.3-4, p.16)

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Question: “The SRod, Vol, 1, p. 44 says that only the great multitude have palms in their hands, whereas G.C. 646 speaking of all ‘overcomers’ says: ‘In every hand are placed the victor’s palm and the shining harps.’ How are these statements harmonized?”

Answer: According to SRod, Vol. 1, p. 44, Class number two; namely, the great multitude of Rev. 7:9, have their palms in their hands while they are on earth before being transported to the heaven of heavens. Hence their palms according to John’s vision are symbolic of victory gained. But in the statement from The Great Controversy, p. 646: “In every hand are placed the victor’s palm and the shining harp,” it will be noted that this gift to the saints is not made until they are in heaven — after they have all been transported from the earth. These palms are real but the others figurative.

To prove that the great multitude have their palms in symbol only, and before Jesus finishes His work in the heavenly sanctuary, read Rev. 7:11. Here it states that the great multitude have their palms while the elders and four beasts are still before the throne of the investigative judgment in the heavenly sanctuary. (See SRod, Vol. 2, pp. 189-191.) Therefore, they have their palms while the Investigative judgment is in session-before probation closes.

Furthermore, in regard to the class and the event of G.C. 646, note that in every hand in which is placed the victor’s palm there is also placed a shining harp. Whereas the great multitude have only palms but no harps. Therefore, these are two separate incidents distinct one from the other.” (Sym. Code, vol. 1, no.8, p.10)

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Question: “Early Writings, p. 281 says: ‘The plan of salvation had been accomplished, but few had chosen to accept it. This statement is used very extensively against the doctrine of the ‘great multitude’ as taught by the SRod. Please harmonize it with the latter’s teaching.”

Answer: It is true that the words, “few chosen” often appear in sacred writings. However, it is unbiblical to explain the Word privately. We must let the Scriptures explain themselves. The following example will serve to show how fatal it is to explain the Scriptures by the human way of reasoning.

Says Paul: “But now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” (Heb. 9:26.) If one should expound the above quotation as some expound the words, “few chosen,” he would be compelled to do one of two things; namely, either humble himself as a little child and admit that he does not understand Paul’s writings, or else, separate from divine wisdom, exercise his human judgment and accuse Paul of being wrong in his statement, for the world did not end at the time Christ was sacrificed.

Therefore, let us examine the words, “few chosen,” in the light of the Bible. While Jesus declares that “many be called, but few chosen” (Matt. 20:16), Isaiah by the same Spirit says: “Thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought…A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the Lord will hasten it in his time.” (Isa. 60:11, 22.)

Zechariah, while prophetically speaking of our time, also says: “Many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day.” (Zech. 2:11.) Furthermore, the Lord says: “It shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the Lord, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on My name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is My people: and they shall say, The Lord is my God.” (Zech. 13:8, 9.)

Moreover, while the Early Writings says: “But few have chosen to accept it,” the same author in The Great Controversy, p. 665, classifies the great multitude of Revelation 7:9 as a company separate from the martyrs and others who are to be resurrected, making it impossible to conclude that the “great multitude” are the resurrected.

Now the question is, if we conclude from the statement in Early Writings, p. 281, and from Matt. 20:16 that only a few are to be saved, what shall we do with Isa. 60:11, 22, Zech. 2:11; 13:8, 9, and The Great Controversy, p. 665? No candid Bible student could from the above statements arrive at any conclusion which would lead him to base his interpretation of the subject on one scripture and wholly ignore the other, but would rather seek to make his final analysis in such a way as to be in perfect harmony with all inspired writings or else confess that he does not have the light on the Scriptures.

The only doctrine that, in the present connection, will stand the test and be in perfect agreement with all sacred writings is the one that the “few” are those who were saved during the ages past, which period is figuratively classified in the parable of Christ as the time before the “Harvest.” But in the closing of the world’s history, in the ingathering time — the Harvest — there is to be saved a great multitude.

It is only natural that there were comparatively but few saved in the ages past, because of the fact that that period of time was not the Harvest, and it is likewise just as natural that now “in the end of the world,” — the time of the Harvest (Matt. 13:30), — there shall be a great ingathering of souls which no man can number.

“Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great shall be the day of Jezreel.”

As the idea of a great multitude is opposed only to the devil’s plan, let us not therefore work to his interest. (Sym. Code, vol. 1, no.10, p.8)

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Question: “5 T 216, speaking to the brethren, says that some are preparing for the mark of the beast, but according to the SRod, all unfaithful S.D.A.’s will be destroyed before the mark of the beast. Please explain.

Answer: If the questioner will restudy 5 T 216, she will see that it is not the brethren who are preparing for the “mark of the beast,” but rather “Those who are uniting with the world,” not with the church. (Sym. Code, vol. 1, no.10, p.9)

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Question: “How do you harmonize the seven kings of Rev. 17:10 with the beast that ‘was, and is not, and yet is’? The SRod, Vol. 2, p. 118 on this subject is not clear to me.

Answer: Do not try to harmonize the seven kings with the seven beasts, but only with the periods which are symbolized by the four metals of the great image of Dan. 2. To these periods add the period before the flood and the one after the millennium as illustrated in the SRod, Vol. 2, p. 84, and you will have a perfect harmony.

The seven kings embrace the entire world’s history from creation to the earth made new. The antediluvian world is symbolized by the first “king.” The empire of ancient Babylon by the second. The Medo-Persian by the third. The Grecian by the fourth and the Roman monarchy by the fifth. Of these it is said “five are fallen.” The king which “is” is symbolical of the period from the fall of the Roman monarchy to the second coming of Christ; that is, the period which now is; namely, Rome in her broken state.

The seventh king which “must continue a short space” is symbolical of the wicked world after the millennium. Thus, there are seven kings; five are fallen (the antediluvian, the Babylonian, the Medo-Persian, the Grecian, and the Roman), but the present world which now “is” comprises the sixth, and the one that is to come after the millennium who is to “continue a short space” will be the seventh and the last. (Sym. Code, vol. 1, no.11,12, p.10)

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Question No. 56:

If the church is to be purified before the close of probation for the world and remain pure thereafter without any sinners in it as “The Shepherd’s Rod” teaches, then how do you harmonize this with “Early Writings,” p. 71, which says Some “will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building”?

Answer:

There are other statements from the author of Early Writings which bear even more positive evidence that God will, before that time, have a church pure and true. (See The Great Controversy p. 425, Prophets and Kings, p. 725, Testimonies Vol. 5 p. 80; Isa. 52:1-2.)

As these several statements with reference to a preliminary purification are just as true as the one in Early Writings which seems to negate a purification, one cannot honestly disregard them and give consideration only to it. Let us remember always to observe the inviolable rule that an interpretation of one inspired statement must harmonize with all other related statements.

Some who are anxious to risk Present Truth on the weight of what one inspired statement seems to say or imply, are thereby presumptuously or very ignorantly overlooking the “weight of evidence.” Others are doing this through shortsightedness, while still others are doing it to prop up certain cherished ideas of their own.

The basic foundation for the no-preliminary-purification doctrine is built, not upon solid rock, but upon the same shifting sand as that which underlies such as the erroneous ideas of the conscious state of the dead, the eternal torment of the wicked, baptism by sprinkling, Sunday sacredness, and the millennial age of peace on earth.

Since, Truth is progressive, and since the purification of the church had not yet been revealed when the statement in Early Writings was written, the danger foretold and the counsel given therein could not possibly have been stated in terms other than those then familiarly comprehended. All were thus plainly forewarned that if they continued sinning, then after the close of probation for the world, the plagues, of which they already had some understanding, would be their recompense.

So for the Lord to have explained the matter in Early Writings as He does through the Rod today, He would have had to reveal, out of due time, when Early Writings was being written, the message which is applicable only to the church for today, and which we are now therefore receiving.

In the last analysis, the unrepentant sinners who are now in the church, may never see the seven last plagues, while others who are now in the world, will in the time of the Loud Cry yet have opportunity to be “squared” for the building, and be treasured with the “living stones,” or else to suffer the consequences of the plagues.

No one should have difficulty in seeing this now, for all those to whom Early Writings primarily spoke are already dead, though the plagues are yet in the future. Furthermore, there is much more light to come concerning the truth of the seven last plagues, and when it comes, we may again see that we have “many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn.”-Testimonies to Ministers p. 30.

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To see all the questions and answers from the “Answerer” publications click here–http://shepherds-rod.org/answerers/index%20answerer.html

Posted in Elijah Interpretations, Proper teachings, Revelation teachings, Victor T. Houteff | Leave a Comment »

To Vote or Not to Vote

March 5, 2016

There is no doubt that currently the nation is witnessing a new phenomena. Politics as we know it is being turned on its head. Just look at the two of the leading candidates from the Republican and Democratic side– Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders. This voting season is causing a real uproar.

But with all this mass media coverage, we must step back and put in all into perspective. Voting has been a God-given right as proclaimed by our fore fathers yet our Lord has made this issue clear through His last and final message to us as Seventh-day Adventists.

Let us take a look at this issue as shown in the Lord’s Elijah message.

As we have pointed out many times the “restoring” message is the message that restores all the hazy areas that we are really not sure about such as “Do we as strivers to be among that fateful number, the 144,000, need to concern ourselves with voting and involvement in the political process?”

Let us look at the some direct questions asked about this issue.

IS VOTING BECOMING TO A CHRISTIAN?

Question No. 145:

Is it right to vote?

Answer:

As the franchise is one of the inalienable rights of a free people, there cannot be any wrong in exercising it if thereby either the law or offices of the land can be better served. To cast a vote though, which will further such an end, requires conscientious study; failing that, one’s vote can only be unintelligent guesswork, and thus adverse rather than conducive to good government.

Those, therefore, who are in no position to devote the time and study necessary to inform themselves on political issues sufficiently to qualify them to vote intelligently on them, cannot conscientiously cast such a vote.

Being ministers of the gospel, with our time completely preoccupied with the spiritual interests of the people, we ourselves are not able to give attention to their political interests also, just as the people’s political representatives are not able to give proper attention to their spiritual needs also. And therefore rarely, if ever, do we see our way clear to vote. (Answerer, vol. 5, p.75)

This really gives us quite a bit to digest. Summarily, we can see that , while it is not wrong to vote, we as faithful workers in God’s vineyard should not have the time to devote the necessary study to proper voting. It seems there is no doubt the intended instruction is that we do not. At least if we are striving to be among God’s servants.

VOTE FOR OR AGAINST PENSION?

Question No. 144:

Would you please explain your position relative to the pension issues that are now being presented to the public? Do you think they merit our voting on them?

Answer:

We are admonished that the cause of God “should engross the whole mind, the whole attention.”–Early Writings, p. 118. Consequently, as we cannot conscientiously devote enough time to the study of these political and economic issues and of their ultimate results, intelligently to pass judgment upon them, we cannot conscientiously vote either for or against them. For our uninformed voting might work hardship and deprivation upon some, while leading others into the paths of idleness and extravagance. “Behold,” says the Lord “this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness.” Ezek. 16:49.

In the world of today, both its political and its religious interests are far better served by specialists. Only those who have their whole heart and mind in the temporal things of life, who can devote enough time to the study of the world’s economic and political issues, are qualified for participating in such interests.

Those who are heart and soul devoted to the world’s spiritual needs, which are eternal and of far greater importance than the temporal concerns of life that are soon to perish and be forgotten, can no more serve the world in its economic and political needs than can those who have their hearts and minds engrossed in the temporal things, serve the world’s spiritual needs.

“Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the Lord! Yet He also is wise, and will bring evil, and will not call back His words: but will arise against the house of the evildoers, and against the help of them that work iniquity.

Now the Egyptians are men, and not God; and their horses flesh, and not spirit. When the Lord shall stretch out His hand both he that helpeth shall fall, and he that is holpen shall fall down, and they all shall fail together.” Isa. 31:1-3. “The righteous shall be glad in the Lord, and shall trust in Him; and all the upright in heart shall glory.” Ps. 64:10. (Answerer, vol. 5, p.73-74)

All this points to a greater point, and that is — are we wasting time on earthly temporal matters? The matters that are foreign to our work? Sure, this voting season there is much excitement with all the debates and the national media attention, but what does that get us in our eternal reward?

You see my brethren, we are to be in sacrifice mode, meaning that all earthly time-wasting activities are to be given up as much as reasonably possible for the outreach that we are called to do now. There are souls right within our very own church that will soon perish unless we reach out and warn,educate and enlight them on what the Lord is about to do. The leaders aren’t doing it so it is up to us.

“Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him.He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people.Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah.”(Psalms 50:3-6)

The message tell us what Satan’s trick is for today —

“.. Satan’s supreme effort at this hour must be to cause the time to be wasted and the work undone.” (Answerer, vol. 1, p. 6, Q-4)

It doesn’t matter to Satan how he gets us–time-wasting, pleasure-seeking, and now–political time spending (TV, online reports and news, etc.). Let us not get side tracked for the great work of calling the great multitude out of Babylon is almost at the door.

“God’s children are to separate themselves from politics, from any alliance with unbelievers. Do not take part in political strife. Separate from the world, and refrain from bringing into the church or school ideas that will lead to contention and disorder. Dissension is the moral poison taken into the system by human beings who are selfish.” {CCh P.316.6}

Posted in Present Truth, Proper teachings | 6 Comments »

The Importance of God’s Symbols

February 20, 2016

The Word of God is replete with many symbolic pictures through out its sacred pages. The fascination of the deep and heart-moving displays and pictures really should move any and all sincere lover of the Holy Writ.

The usage of these symbols was extensively shown by His last prophet sent to our SDA church– Victor T. Houteff. This week’s post we’d like to show some of the most deep and awe-inspiring charts that the Lord inspired for us as present truth believers.

The Spirit of Prophecy spoke enlightening words concerning these symbols.

“God Himself employed pictures and symbols to represent to His prophets lessons which He would have them give to the people, and which could thus be better understood than if given in any other way.”(Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, 211, 212.)

“The Old Testament is the gospel in figures and symbols.” (2 Selected Messages, p.104)

“A correct interpretation of the symbols employed is necessary to an understanding of the message.” (G.C. p.439)

“Impressive symbols were employed to unfold the plan of God.” (Youth Instructor, Dec. 13, 1900)

Let us now review some of the precious charts and a brief description of their import.

Our first chart is the one shown above. It is the Daniel 2 vision. This lesson concerns the last proclamation of the gospel. The stone is symbolic of the 144,000 elect of God “cut out” of the mountain (God’s people/church) and symbolically destroying the worldly kingdoms (feet of the great image) in the end time. The lesson shows that soon the Lord must “take the reins into His own hands.”(Testimonies to Ministers, p.300)

For the study outline see this link –http://www.shepherds-rod-message.org/outlines/dan_2.pdf

Our second chart is concerning Zechariah 6:1-8, the lesson of different Christian Church movements from the days of the Apostles. This prophecy succinctly describes the four main church movements since Christ. The main lesson concerns the last of the movements–our SDA church. From the picture you can see the unique chariot that has two sets of horses, unlike the other chariots.

The meaning shows that the horses being symbolic of the leaders, has two different type of leaders (grisled and bay horses), both endeavoring to steer the chariot (laity) in two different directions yet they cannot go in the proper direction because they are hitched. Then in verse 7 the Word says —

“And the bay went forth, and sought to go that they might walk to and fro through the earth: and he said, Get you hence, walk to and fro through the earth. So they walked to and fro through the earth.”

The horses are cut loose (church judgement/separation) and the bay horses are free to go to the “north country” in God’s direction. The Bay horses obey God by going out to proclaim the final Gospel proclamation in truth and righteousness. The grisled are left behind because they wanted to go to the “south country”, no more to direct the church.

In describing this paradox of two different sets of horses attempting to lead the chariot in two different directions the message says–

“The dissimilar teams hitched to the fourth chariot, each pulling in a different direction from
the other, show not only that there is a double leadership in the Laodicean church, but also
that the one is opposed to the other in character as well as in purpose. This condition being a
strange one, the wise will well consider it. Seeing that the Word of God has spoken it, and that
the symbolism perfectly describes the contest which, before their very eyes, is taking place,
they will tenaciously take hold of the truth.” (Tract 2, p. 37)

For the study link on this one , click here — http://www.shepherds-rod-message.org/outlines/zech_6.pdf

Have you ever wanted to clear up the confusion of the final hours of our King’s life? There are so many ideas bandied about since the Gospels were written about just when did Jesus die and when did he arise?

Many false ideas are put forth but God in His infinite wisdom sent His restoring prophet to restore to us just what happened and when during those final days. The above chart shows the truth as to when things transpired in the last days of His life. How do we know it’s true? Because when you read the report and then look at the corresponding chart, you will see how it all completely makes sense and lines up clearly with Scripture.

The real key to this understanding as the prophet shows is that we must know the meaning of “the heart of the earth”. Many private interpreters have thought this means–buried in the earth. But we all know Jesus was not buried but rather placed in a tomb laying above ground.

For the report read this Tract– http://www.shepherds-rod-message.org/tracts/tract_10.html

In Revelation 4 and 5 we read of the “Seven seals”. The chart portrays what the Scripture pictures as to the seals and their timeline history. No where in all the writings of any writer except from the restoring prophet will one find a most beautiful and clear description of what each of the seals mean. This study will truly bless you once you get into it–I assure you.

For the study of Rev. 4 and 5 see this Tract– http://www.shepherds-rod-message.org/tracts/tract_15.html

You see brethren, these symbols are part of God’s plan to reach us today with His final message. Our Lord warns us, the SDA church that we are in need of more truth (Rev. 3:18). He sent us this more truth, and much of it consists of His symbols in order that we may truly grasp the important lessons we need.

The above symbolic studies are but a few of the bountiful supply of lessons He has given us through the Elijah prophet. Once we endeavor to study these lessons, we draw closer to God because we see His beautiful plans and workings soon to come. Jump aboard while we still have opportunity!

Posted in Elijah Interpretations, Present Truth, Proper teachings | 3 Comments »

Watch your Pearls

December 26, 2015

Our King said, “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” (Matt. 7:6)

Quite some powerful and direct words for sure. Let us look at this great admonition and how we can observe it.

If you are active in the Lord’s vineyard, hopefully proclaiming present truth message of Elijah, you should be acutely aware of this instruction. By obedience to this rule we can save ourselves much precious time and even heartache as the Lord warned.

You see, the Lord’s truth is as priceless gems to us. They are our meat, our golden nuggets and yes–our pearls. Understanding why we should not cast them to the swine is very important lesson for us.

Our confidence in the Lord and His word should be guarded.

“So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you!” (Hebrews: 10:35)

And we can throw it away if we continue to cast our pearls of Truth before those who will trample it afoot.

Recently I have been in an email study with a brother we’ll call bro. J. He is active in studies but unfortunately he has been led into one of the adversary’s rabbit trails– Feast day keeping. As we have posted many times before, the last message of the Lord, the Elijah message, shows us beyond doubt that the Old Testament Feast days observance has been replaced by Christ and His work in the heavenly sanctuary. The sermon address that dealt with this is here — http://shepherds-rod.org/TGvol2/2tg37.htm

But as we continued the study the Spirit started to remind me of what I was doing. The hard work and plentiful study I have done to know this message, was being dangled about to someone who either a) wasn’t reading the truth I was showing him b) was reading it yet it was like water off a duck’s back–or put another way–trampled under his feet.

Either way I sensed I was barking up the wrong tree. So the Lord reminded me to stay focused and not venture into a situation where your pearls are being chewed up and spit out. Here is where some thoughts came.

What I sense is that if we get involved in a discussion and very soon it becomes obvious that the truth (plain obvious statements) does not get agreement or acknowledgment, then we can come into perilous ground. Why?

Because we can start to lose our own confidence! Yes, we can think, “maybe I need to show him more truth because this is not clear enough” yet it is very clear, it is just our desire to come down to his non-truth loving level that starts to blur our vision, make us doubt our own message.

The message deals with this subject–

IS IT SAFE TO CHALLENGE?

Question No. 132:

If we are to “prove all things; hold fast that which is good,” and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks us a reason of the hope that is in us, then ought we not challenge those who are enemies of “The Shepherd’s Rod” to prove it in error?

Answer:

Even those who have settled it once and for all that The Shepherd’s Rod contains a heaven-sent message, not to mention those who are incapable of defending it in all its aspects, are in no wise justified in exposing their precious jewel of Truth to the Enemy, whose only aim is to take it away from them. Especially so when he is not coming with a promise to give them something that will replace that which they already have.

They cannot afford to invite his challenge to prove whether or not he can cheat them of their treasure. When it is gone, the “proof” will be sad consolation! Placing themselves thus on Satan’s vantage ground will make them guilty not only of the folly of presumptousness but waste of time and of energy as well. It will be but inviting the Devil to rob them of eternal life.

All of us must guard our heavenly treasure with the utmost care, and preserve our faith by studying to give an answer to every man that asks us a reason of the hope that is in us, but not by challenging him to ply us with deceitful questions, and then debating with him.

If, though, for any compelling reason you assume the risk of meeting the Enemy in this great spiritual warfare, then you must at least hold him to answer to the whole Truth; do not let him switch you to some certain moot point which no one, perhaps, at the moment could clear. Do not permit yourself to be backed into a defensive position, but rather keep yourself on the offensive, yet never debate.

Do not forget that the Enemy who seeks to take your crown is mightier than you, and that therefore if you are not absolutely settled on the message, then by all means rather than to study with its enemies, go study with its friends. Not until you have thus done all to let the messengers prove it right, and are still convinced that it is not Present Truth, can you rightly study with its opposers. Do all to make sure that someone does not cheat you of a message from the Lord. Let “no man take thy crown.” Rev. 3:11.

Remember that if there is someone ready to undermine one truth, there is another one ready to undermine another truth, and so on and on. In fact, the Enemy is ready to dynamite every truth in existence, even the Bible Itself, if you but give him the chance. Certain it is, though, that Satan does not begin to have as much room for an argument against the Rod’s truths as Sunday keepers have against the Sabbath truth.

Ever bear in mind that “the efforts made to retard the progress of truth will serve to extend it” (Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 454), and that you will be promoted with it if you faithfully keep in the middle of the road, not running ahead with a zeal that is not according to knowledge.

“Our convictions need daily to be re-enforced by humble, sincere prayer and reading of the word. While we each have an individuality, while we each should hold our convictions firmly, we must hold them as God’s truth and in the strength which God imparts. If we do not, they will be wrung from our grasp.”–Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 401.

Hence, for one who is settled in the Truth and who is searching for more, to challenge the Enemy, is like putting one’s sword in his hand and daring him to cut off one’s head.

Never challenge, therefore, but ever be ready to give the right answer intelligently and convincingly to every man; never debate, but always teach the Truth; never go to an enemy or to a non-believer of a message to prove it right or to prove it wrong; rather, do all your proving with its friends, with its authors–those who know all about it. (Answerer Book, vol. 5, Q-132)

Back to brother J. In regards to not keeping the feast days, I showed him this unequivocal statement–

Broadly speaking, the law of Moses consists of three parts. The first is the Ceremonial law, the law of the temple — the sacrificial law. This law, of course, we today must not observe, except in antitype, for it foreshadowed things to come, particularly Christ’s first advent. Thus it is that if we had lived in Old Testament times and had failed to comply with the sacrificial law and system of that day, we would thereby have demonstrated unbelief in Christ, Who was to come. But since we are living in the Christian era, if we should now observe the typical sacrificial law and system, we should thereby demonstrate unbelief in Christ, Who has come.

And so, as this law was nailed to the cross (Col. 2:14), we need not, and must not, observe it now. (TG, vol. 2, no.37, p.14-15)

Ok clear enough right? Not according to the types like brother J. You see we must be very cautious when we show Scriptural plain statements, for a fictional example– “The lady had on a blue dress.” And they come back, “Well it’s not really blue because, blue has other colors in it to make it blue. So it’s a mixture of different colors scientifically.” Huh? We say or think to their secret mysterious meaning!

The message tells us that the wise will understand (Be guided into all truth) and the wicked will not.

“Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.”(Dan. 12:10)

SOP also gives us great counsel–

“The truths most plainly revealed in the Bible have been involved in doubt and darkness by learned men, who, with a pretense of great wisdom, teach that the Scriptures have a mystical, a secret, spiritual meaning not apparent in the language employed. These men are false teachers.” (GC, P.598)

Now to be clear, we are not advocating avoiding good back and forth discussions, but once it becomes clear that straight clear Scripture, SOP or Elijah message does not have them agreeing or even acknowledging, that should be our Que that we may be “casting our pearls…”.

“I have beheld angels grieved as the most precious jewels of truth have been brought before men utterly incapable of appreciating the evidences in favor of the truth.”( Testimonies, vol. 3, p.425)

In closing my brethren, let’s hold onto our pearls bought at a great price( hard study and deep devotion). If we give them away let it be to our friends and the Bureans. If we obey the Lord in His admonition we shall not get snared in time-wasting.

“No one is lost for believing a false interpretation of a prophecy before the truth of it is revealed, provided the false interpretation does not draw him away from some other truth. Such individuals, however, are in great danger because, as history reveals, very few who become thus involved in error are willing to humble themselves by renouncing their errors and accepting the truth when it is made known.

They are consequently in constant peril of sinning against the Holy Ghost. And being acutely aware of this, Satan misinterprets the prophecies before they are divinely revealed. He realizes full well that many, unwilling to be corrected and to exchange their errors for revealed truth, will thereby be led to eternal ruin. All-important, therefore, is the need that the student of the truth fortify himself with all honesty and humility..” (Tract 5, p.7)

Posted in Proper teachings, Warning our brethren, Witnessing | Leave a Comment »

The Parable of the Ten Virgins

December 19, 2015

One of the parables most often studied and quoted around the world is that of Matthew 25–the parable of the Ten Virgins.

“Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.

Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.

And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” (Matt. 25:1-13)

In order to know the true interpretive meaning of this parable (or any other parable or prophecy) we are counseled to not trust in our own “private interpretation” but rather a “Thus sayeth the Lord” by His prophets. And we who are living in these very last days, should yell to the mountain tops in joy that the Lord gave us His promised –restorer of all things, Elijah. We are just very blessed because as you’ll see the end time prophetic meaning of this parable is directly applicable to us today. Let us heed the lesson!

Who are the Virgins?

The virgins are a figure of the church. Number “ten,” has the symbolic meaning of universal (the church as a body). Note that they are all “virgins.” The 144,000 are designated by the same word. (See Rev. 14:4.) The word “virgins,” signify that the class represented by them (ten), are not those who are called out from Babylon (fallen churches) at the time the “cry” is made.

For, if they were to come out of Babylon by the call “Come out of her, my people” (Rev. 18:4), they would have been defiled with “women” (fallen churches), and therefore, could not be called “virgins.” Thus, the message of the “Midnight Cry” must find them in the house of God — virgins. (SRod, vol. 2, p.181)

What is the “cry” that is made?

The “Midnight Cry” was first proclaimed prior to 1844, and the coming of the “Bridegroom” was Christ’s coming to the Most Holy place in the heavenly sanctuary for the investigative judgment of the saints. The investigation being in two sections; first, the judgment for the dead, and the second for the living, the “cry” must be repeated, otherwise we would have no present truth for the time of the judgment of the living.

The “cry” for the living being of a greater importance to the world than the one for the dead, and as the “virgins” are a figure of the living church, the parable must have a direct application to the church at this present time, — the coming of the bridegroom for the judgment of the living. But indirectly it points back to the commencement of the “Midnight Cry” (the first angel’s message — the judgment for the dead).

The messages being of the same event, judgment, both (for the living and for the dead) are called the “midnight cry.” The same is proven by the parable itself. (p.181)

What does the oil represent?

The “oil” is a symbol of the Spirit of God in the form of a message (truth); for, it is the substance that gives the light (the prophetic Word of God). The lamp must be a symbol of the heart into which the Word (oil) is being retained. The trimming of their lamps, is the “trimming” of their hearts; that is, their conscience being aroused they began to show interest.

But only five of them had an extra supply of oil in their vessels. As they started out to meet the bridegroom, the lamps of the foolish ones went out; and as they found themselves in darkness, it made their progress impossible. Now, the question arises: What made their lamps go out, and why could they go backward, but not forward?

As the message of the judgment for the dead was the present truth since 1844, at the beginning of the judgment for the living (when the cry was made), it became present truth no longer. Consequently their lamps went out. They could not move forward because they were foolish; that is, they did not accept the light — the judgment for the living. Was the “oil” beyond their reach? The words in the parable prove that they all heard the “cry, “arose, and trimmed their lamps.”

Five of them failed to get the supply of oil because they were “foolish,” — they did not study for themselves. Allowed others to think for them; they chose the easy, popular side, and accepted the decisions of the leaders, copies the mistakes of others and were thus left without a supply of oil, — robbed of the truth, cheated of glory, and left in darkness!

“And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.” At last the foolish virgins saw themselves in darkness. Then they went to the wise and asked for oil as a gift; “But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.”

The oil is sold and there must be something given in exchange to obtain the supply. The price they had to pay was to “sigh and cry for the abominations done in the midst thereof,” give up sinning and obey the truth. Their receipt for the value of exchange would have been the seal of the living God in their foreheads.(P.182-183)

What is the significance of the door being shut?

As the foolish virgins at last came to the door, it is evident that they obtained the oil (learned of the message) but there had been a delay — the door was shut, and they were left out. Now, why were they unconcerned at first, and very zealous at last? The experience in this instance is about the same as that of the deluge.

While Noah preached the coming of the flood, the world paid little attention to this message; but those who believed, went into the ark at a given time and the door was closed. But not long afterwards, signs of Noah’s prediction appeared; and as drops of rain began to fall the wicked multitude became alarmed and rushed for the ark, but the door was closed and they were left out.

The door that “was shut,” is a symbol showing that probation for the church had closed just shortly after the foolish virgins became alarmed. At last they were willing to pay the price and buy the oil; but it was not a change of heart, only the fear of losing out. Their course of action had left them without the seal — “the man with the writer’s inkhorn” had passed them by. What a terrible mistake! What a disappointment! Almost saved, but entirely lost.(P.183-184)

Why 10 virgins?

The number, “ten”, being a symbol of universal, it represents the church as a body prior to the commencement of the judgment of the living — in the sealing period of the 144,000, and before the “Loud Cry” of the Third Angel’s Message; being the period of the first fruits of the harvest. (P.185)

What is the lesson of the five foolish and five wise virgins?

The five wise virgins were they who trusted in God and His word only; having no confidence in man, and were hungry for truth, searching for light, and gladly accepting it when it came. Thus they received the seal of God’s approval, their sins were blotted out, and their lives made sure — they passed from condemnation and death into glory and life eternal. They are God’s servants, kings and priests — 144,000 in number.

The five foolish virgins are they who had confidence in men; they were willing that others should think and study for them. Their love for this world and the things of it, exceeded their love for Christ and the world to come. They had no true sense of the awful result of sin. Their zeal for self, drowned their zeal for the house of God and His honor.

They were satisfied with their lamps trimmed and but little oil in them. They saw no necessity for more light — prophets, truth or message. They said in their hearts, we are rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing. They were prejudiced against light upon the word of God, and accepted not the truth because the channel through which it came was not of their choice.

The knowledge of present truth, which the five foolish virgins possessed since 1844 is the judgment of the dead, and was the only oil in their lamps. When the judgment of the living commenced, and the “cry was made,” they were found without this extra oil in their vessels; they had neglected their Lord’s command: “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”

Thus when the wise ones started out to meet the bridegroom the lamps of the foolish went out, for, the judgment of the dead had passed. Therefore, it was present truth no more, and thus they were left in darkness.

At the beginning of the judgments of God they saw their mistake and rushed for the ark of safety, but it was beyond their reach for they knew nothing of the message, and by the time they acquired it (filled their lamps with oil), there had been a delay, the angel had passed “through the city, through Jerusalem,” the church — the sealing was finished, and probation for the church had closed — the door was shut. Thus they were left out.

Then they came with these words: “Lord, Lord, open unto us, But He answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.” “Appoint his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” What a disappointment that will be!

It will be noticed that the close of probation for the church and the one for the world are two different events. The former is a miniature representation of the latter. The Scripture for the preceding one is found in Matthew 25:11, 12; but of the final one we read: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” (Rev. 22:11, 12.)

At this time those who were like the five foolish virgins, will say, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” (Jer. 8:20.) “And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, and shall not find it.” (Amos 8:12.) ( SRod, P.185-186)

Posted in Elijah Interpretations, Parable studies, Present Truth, Proper teachings | 1 Comment »

Study to Show Yourself Approved

December 5, 2015

In 2 Timothy 2:15 we read, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Last Sabbath I had a Bible study with a man we’ll call brother S. After Sabbath we had a Bible study that lasted a good 3 hours. After we prayed, which is a prerequisite before any Bible study, he opened his large bag and pulled out his Bible. As he opened it I was amazed to see nearly every page marked as the picture shows. Color coded even with lines going from one part of page to another, showing that he saw them connected in some way.

This is not the first time I have seen such markings. A while back I had another study with a brother (we’ll call him brother F) who also had these same markings.

So what does this show to us and the Angels? It shows that people are taking seriously their study of the Scriptures. They have more than a surface interest in the Word. Like the Word says they are studying to be approved by God. This really should be a basic fundamental trait that all of us who call ourselves “Christian” should have.

Obviously these brothers are striving to know God’s Word better. But studying the Word and knowing the truth is not always mutually the same. We know that He has made us a great promise–

“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.” (John 1613)

This promise is one of the greatest promises we have. It says we are to know all truth. But let’s look at the two mentioned brothers and look at clues to who is being “guided” into truth.

To start, brother F and I had a study about a month ago concerning the prophecy of Daniel 2. We watched a DVD of Daniel 2 and while playing we’d stop it and discuss. Keep in mind most Adventists have been taught or have heard that the stone that comes from the mountain is Christ.

So as it played brother F began making comments like “I don’t believe that”. When I asked where is the presentation wrong, where is the error? He hemmed and hawed and basically summed it up by saying that the Scriptures showed that Christ is a “stone” and therefore that is the correct interpretation. He was no doubt parroting what we as Adventists have heard about Daniel 2.

But in an effort to look deeper into this prophecy, I asked about where the stone came from? And what does the mountain symbolize? He wasn’t so clear. Bottom line, although he basically did not want to accept the study, he couldn’t refute the teachings.

As the study of Daniel 2 progressed and started to go into how the church abominations are leavening it, ripe for its purification, brother F began to “pass the buck” as it were. He explained that it is “Christ’s righteousness” that saves us and our works are as filthy rags. I agreed with this but pointed out that we cannot sweep the unholy acts of the church under the rug. I stressed that only sighers and criers of the sins in the church will be sealed and be saved in the SDA church (Testimonies, vol.3 , p.267). To this he kind of just shrugged his shoulders. As if the eternal point really did not awake him nor did he need to address it!

So this brings up the question–why and how can someone so devoted to studying and highlighting the Scriptures ignore clear truth from the very Scriptures they study? How can they not see many truths within its sacred pages? The answer is a long one but we can give some general guidelines.

“Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” (Rev.3:17)

You see many are satisfied in their knowledge. If a new understanding of Scripture comes their way , they rise up a mental block wall to shut it away. They are content in what they think is truth because they do not embrace a new understanding mainly because they feel they might be deceived or off base if they accept it.

There is also the “herd mentality”. If the church believes it–so will I. The Jews of old had this same problem! The masses obeyed and believed what their Pharisee leaders taught, their version of truth. Jesus came along and taught truth that was not truth to those who refused to give up their many lessons they had been taught. Nothing has changed much. Truth is still seen by the few as opposed to the masses. No wonder the Scriptures say only 144,000 sealed from “all” the tribes of Israel.

SOP tells us we have been taught traditional ideas and lessons that we must “unlearn”.

“We have many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn. God and heaven alone are infallible. Those who think that they will never have to give up a cherished view, never have occasion to change an opinion, will be disappointed. As long as we hold to our own ideas and opinions with determined persistency, we cannot have the unity for which Christ prayed.” (Testimonies to Ministers, p.30)

Again SOP gives us counsel–

“It is a fact that we have the truth, and we must hold with tenacity to the positions that cannot be shaken; but we must not look with suspicion upon any new light which God may send, and say, Really, we cannot see that we need any more light than the old truth which we have hitherto received, and in which we are settled. While we hold to this position, the testimony of the True Witness applies to our cases its rebuke, “And knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.”

Those who feel rich and increased with goods and in need of nothing, are in a condition of blindness as to their true condition before God, and they know it not. We must not think, “Well, we have all the truth, we understand the main pillars of our faith, and we may rest on this knowledge.” The truth is an advancing truth, and we must walk in the increasing light.“ (Counsels to Writers and Editors, p.33)

Let us compare with brother S approach to study. First, the reason the study took 3 hours was because he was asking some really good and pondering questions. Unlike brother F, he was searching instead of telling. Our study was about the church purification, backed up by 24 references shown by the Spirit of Prophecy.

As we progressed I started to see that his view of purification was in need of realignment. In other words, just like many within our SDA church he saw this purifying process of us as members drawing closer to God and doing more reform in the future. I countered that God has given the SDA church about 171 years to “get it together”. He cannot continue on and on, for it would probably be eons of years if and when we ever have meaningful reforms in our church. The word says that He will take the reins into His own hands (Testimonies to Ministers, p.300).

Our study was very satisfying as he made me think and I made him think. But I was heartened because by his questions I could see that his goal was knowing the truth not protecting lessons or ideas he could not rethink.

You see brethren our King who knows all, knew that we would , for the most part, reject His final message of Elijah. Therefore He warned us to get rid of our stuck in the mud know it all attitude and accept His new truths He would send via His messengers.

If someone comes to me and says, “hey Rob, I found this great new truth from Scripture.” I want to see it and apply the Lord’s remedy to see if it’s really true.

“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” (Isaiah 8:20)

I check first if the person who is telling me this 1) believes and keeps our Lord’s holy 10 Commandments (checking his fruits) 2) The “truth” they have discovered is not counter to what the prophets teach (and that includes His last Elijah prophet–who “restores all things”.) If these two important tests are passed then I praise the Lord for truth revealed to my brother or sister. But this concerns Bible nuggets of truth not Bible prophecy. Prophecy is not given to any “man” only to His prophets.

“Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” (Amos 3:7)

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20)

How important that we be ready for “fresh truth”?

“Ever have your ears open to any claimant of Inspiration if you are not to repeat the history of the Jews. God will not let you be deceived if you really hunger and thirst after righteousness, if you really want to know the Truth, for He is anxious that you keep up with His progressively revealed Truth. There is therefore no danger for one to be deceived by coming in contact with error, but there is a great danger for staying in darkness by not coming in contact with fresh Truth.” (TG, vol. 1, no.12, p.18

In closing, let us get away from our “rich and increased with goods” mentality and heed the message of the hour —

“A new day is dawning on us, Brother, Sister. And now, rather than imagining that we are rich and increased with goods, in need of nothing, we see ourselves in need of everything. Shall we not accept these riches (Truth) that are tried in the fire, and these garments of righteousness by which to cover our nakedness?

Shall we not anoint our eyes with this fresh golden oil of Truth that we may see and know the way, that we may reach “the door” on time? There is no reason for staying wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. The Lord is waiting at the door of our hearts. He is anxious to pour out a blessing, to fill the cup to overflowing.” (TG, vol. 1, no. 25, p.12-13)

Posted in Present Truth, Proper teachings | 2 Comments »

Rabbit Trails

October 31, 2015

A while back I was speaking with a dear sister in the faith (we’ll call her sister V) , and we were talking about all the winds of doctrine flying around today. So many “rabbit trails” as she called it, of false ideas and deceptive paths, that there can only be one master planner behind all this–our arch-enemy– Satan.

“The enemy is preparing for his last campaign against the church. He has so concealed himself from view that many can hardly believe that he exists, much less can they be convinced of his amazing activity and power. They have to a great extent forgotten his past record; and when he makes another advance move, they will not recognize him as their enemy, that old serpent, but they will consider him a friend, one who is doing a good work.

Boasting of their independence they will, under his specious, bewitching influence, obey the worst impulses of the human heart and yet believe that God is leading them. Could their eyes be opened to distinguish their captain, they would see that they are not serving God, but the enemy of all righteousness. They would see that their boasted independence is one of the heaviest fetters Satan can rivet on unbalanced minds.

.. Man is Satan’s captive and is naturally inclined to follow his suggestions and do his bidding. He has in himself no power to oppose effectual resistance to evil. It is only as Christ abides in him by living faith, influencing his desires and strengthening him with strength from above, that man may venture to face so terrible a foe.

Every other means of defense is utterly vain. It is only through Christ that Satan’s power is limited. This is a momentous truth that all should understand. Satan is busy every moment, going to and fro, walking up and down in the earth, seeking whom he may devour. But the earnest prayer of faith will baffle his strongest efforts. Then take “the shield of faith,” brethren, “wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” (Testimonies, vol.5, p.294)

Here we see that our enemy is “busy every moment” and seeks to “devour” us. And just how does he do this? Yes, rabbit trails are one of his most useful ploys! From the part-time believer to the advanced Elijah messenger, it’s makes no difference to him. If he can get us to go down one of his trails, he has us in his clutches. Let us look at two of Satan’s popular rabbit trails today.

Just recently, and the motivation for this post, a sister whom I had thought was learning the Lord final message of Elijah quite well emailed me with a curve ball (let’s call her sister C). She basically said that we must start obeying the Sabbath according to the Scriptural Sabbath and not according to the Roman calendar (our current calendar).

In other words we are not truly fulfilling God’s will because we are obeying the wrong day! As I read this my mind went back to what the aforementioned sister said –rabbit trails. I truly shook my head and said to myself “Satan! he is at it again!”

You see this sister has went on a few sites that are proclaiming this new idea of obeying a different Sabbath and has bought it hook line and sinker. But let us look at how people who take up these strange new ideas are setting themselves up for failure just as Korah and his men of renown did.

We as present truth believers know that the Lord had to keep His word and sent a “restorer” of all things prior to His coming–

“And He answered and said, “Elijah is coming and will restore all things..” (Matt. 17:11)

So logically if the Sabbath day (our current calendar of Saturday) is not correct and we should obey another day as the correct Sabbath, would not God have told His Elijah prophet to “restore” this? Absolutely. But did He?

WHICH IS THE SABBATH CALENDAR?

Question No. 242:

In keeping the Sabbath, are we to go by the present calendar?

Answer:

As the Sabbath is a weekly, not a monthly, holy day, and as only the seven-day cycle remains intact from creation, it is the only time cycle in modern use that can be followed in the observance of the Sabbath or of any other of the Bible weekly holy days.(Sym. Code, vol. 7, no.7-12, p.20)

Here we see that our seven-day cycle has not changed since creation. Further, the Jews of old (Moses’time) keep a certain 7th day religiously. They were consistent even to Christ’s time, and thereafter the Apostles and their followers as well. All the way down to our time. So we see that this rabbit trail really goes nowhere good!

You see brethren the message shows that this trick will lead all into “perdition”. This sister C has decided to travel this rabbit trail and when she does, her trail builder may get her to break the real 7th day, for a false 7th day. Exactly what he hoped to do!

All the while she thinks she is enlightened just like Korah did. For he thought he was walking with God and did not have need of obeying God’s chosen prophet.

“Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men; And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown: And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?” (Numbers 16:1-3)

After reading the above, what makes us think we are any different from what Korah was? Can we tell God’s prophet that he missed something and we know better what to do? Is this not an insult to our ALL-SEEING AND KNOWING GOD?

Another rabbit trail is the issue of –calling God’s name properly. In other words some think they find out the”correct” way of calling Him, instead of saying “God” or even “Jesus”. When they find this out they then are led to believe that this issue is so important that if you do not address His name properly your salvation is in jeopardy.

The same friend, sister V, told me about a time recently where she was on a phone conference call with some present truth believers. She relayed that in the call a woman spoke up and said she has now learned God’s “real” name and that they all should learn it, and if they don’t she feels like she should not even speak to others who “degrade” His name!

Sister V was flabbergasted. This seemed like a Pharisee rule of long ago. Remember when they would actually measure the distance away from the synagogue and you could not walk one foot more than that to it? Well this is about the same!

So again let us see what God’s restorer said about this. The following was so important an issue that the prophet spoke about it in a Tract called “God’s Titles Not Restricted To One Language.”

Question:

” Is it not a fact that the Bible translators changed the Creator’s original Hebrew names (Elohim, Jehovah, El, Elahh, Elowahh, Bethel, and Tsur) to the names of Baal (God, Lord, etc.)? And if the Creator’s names actually are Elohim, Yahovah, et al., and if God, Lord, etc., are the names of the pagan gods, why, then, do we call Him by the latter?

Answer:

For the sake of correct and consistent understanding in referring to the words under discussion, we call the reader’s attention to the self-evident fact that the various Hebrew words termed by the questioner as “the Creator’s original names,” all being designative of some aspect or attribute of Divine nature or character, are therefore not names, but titles, of the Creator. Only the name Jehovah appears to be His Proper Name; therefore we shall herein treat it separately from the titles.” (Teact 11, p.2)

Idols, Named With The Divine Titles.

“Rather than give the idols names originated specifically for them, the makers honored them with the Divine titles in order to make it appear that the idols were the figures of God, a fabrication which is conclusively borne out by such manifest evidences as that the word, Elah, a Hebrew title of the Deity, is used by the Turks for the name of their god; that the word, Tsur, another Hebrew title of the Deity, is used by the Russo-Slavic peoples as the title of their kings; and that “Elohim is used in many cases of the gods of the heathen, who included in the same title the God of the Hebrews, and denoted generally the Deity when spoken of (sic) a supernatural being.” – Dictionary of the Bible, Smith, definition “Jehovah.”

From these evidences, we see clearly that the names of the idols are, in fact, not the names of the idols, themselves, but the titles of God. Therefore, to restrict our address of Him to one language – the Hebrew – just because His titles in other tongues were once used in honor of idols, forces the conclusion that the idol-gods of the heathen have defeated God the Creator by robbing Him of His titles! What a forbidding thought!

Hence, if we must attach more sacredness to letters expressing Deity in any one language more than in another, it should be Only In The Language of Eden, or In All Alike.

If from the beginning till today “the whole earth was of one speech” (Gen. 11:1), and had the day never dawned when “the Lord did confound the language of all the earth” (Gen. 1 1 :9), then only could God’s worshipers address Him in the language of Eden. But in view of the fact that from that hour to this, diversity and confusion of tongues have been the linguistic lot of the human race, the Lord has never restricted His word to one universal medium of expression, but rather has accommodated it to all “the peoples and multitudes and nations, and tongues” of earth, thus accounting for The Different Titles of the Deity. “ (Tract 11, p.3-5)

Irreverently Using the Lord’s Proper Name.

“If God’s proper name is Jehovah, then dare we His created beings, be so disrespectfully familiar as to address Him by His Proper Name, rather than by one of His titles, God, Lord, Father, Creator, Saviour, etc., when we would not think of indulging the less disrespectful familiarity of addressing our earthly parents by their given names – John, George, Bill, Dorothy, Ruth, Mary, etc., – in place of their parental titles Father and Mother?

Such irreverence practiced by the heathen might be excusable because of their ignorance, but practiced by enlightened Christians, who ought to know better, it is inexcusable. We may with reverence use the word,Jehovah, only if a heathen should ask us, Who is your God? Then we could with solemn propriety answer Jehovah, the only true and living God. Never, though, when addressing God, can we reverentially use His Proper Name.

As the God-fearing Jews anciently “regarded the Divine Name as too sacred for utterance,” so should enlightened Christians do today.

However, the most ancient and hallowed Hebrew name for God was not only never commonly pronounced, but was even so-spelled, in an abbreviated form, that it could not be pronounced; so much so that the original pronunciation is not known. All we know for sure is the Consonant Form, Yhwh, Yvh, or Yhv.

This abbreviated form of the name made it hard for the translators to spell out a pronounceable word. They, therefore, chose to supply what they thought were the missing vowels. The first syllabic term upon which there was general agreement was Jah. Other derivatives were supplied by different translators. Yahweh, Yahowah, or Yahovah were formulated to suit certain languages. The anglicized form evolved as Jehovah. Therefore, any improvised letters that go to make up the ineffable Name may not actually be the Hebrew word after all! (See Funk and Wagnall’s Standard Dictionary, definition “Jehovah.”)

If the original-name theory had proved correct, there is in the way Nothing to Prevent the Change.

As we want, more than anything else, to be right in all things, therefore were it a sin to address the Deity in any language other than the Hebrew, we would immediately and unhesitatingly change out verbal mode of addressing Him.

But as the matter now stands, we are not only unable to share any enthusiasm concerning such an original-name theory, and to accord it any of the truth and worth that some would lead us to believe that it assumes, but also we are more than ever before persuaded not to address the Lord by His proper name. In fact, every wide-awake Christian who sincerely serves the Lord, must plainly see that to conform to such a theory, is to cause the saints to insult their Creator by addressing Him by His Proper Name instead of by His title, and also to suffer the baleful results of becoming enthusiasts over some theory so appealing as virtually to exclude those truths vital to their salvation. Let us therefore

Admit:

These facts forever invalidate the movement that is now afoot to discard from the Christian use, the titles, God, Lord, Christ, etc.; for to give up addressing the Deity by the titles which He has originated in the various languages, would mean defeat for God, and victory for the idols! Such misguided movements should be A Lesson.” (Tract 11, p.9-12)

In closing we can see that we must very careful not to be led down one of Satan’s rabbit trails. They will lead to a place we don’t want to go.

Note: The color codes are as follows: Orange is the Lord’s Words Blue is the Scriptures and SOP brown is the Lord’s Elijah message as brought by Victor T. Houteff

Posted in Elijah Interpretations, Proper teachings | 12 Comments »

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Watch your Pearls

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Study to Show Yourself Approved

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Idols, Named With The Divine Titles.

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