Is YHVH Raising Up Modern Day Jeremiahs?

Jeremiah 1–2

Jeremiah the prophet received a direct call from YHVH Elohim to warn the nation of Judah, YHVH’s people, of impending judgment if they would not repent and return to his Torah. YHVH commissioned the prophet to warn and to rebuke those at all levels of society: kings, princes, priests and people (1:18). Is it likely that YHVH will raise up a prophet or prophets in the last days prior to the return of Yeshua the Messiah who will be doing the same thing as Jeremiah?

Jeremiah did not feel adequate to the job (1:6), yet YHVH assured him that he was, for YHVH personally had called and empowered him to do what seemed to be an impossible task: for one man, as YHVH’s representative, to set his face against an entire nation and to survive the resulting wrath of the wicked against that righteous man of YHVH (1:7–10; 18–19).

In the end times, will there yet arise true prophets in which the Word of YHVH is shut up like fire in their bones (Jer 20:9) who will utter forth the fiery oracles of YHVH, which like a hammer will smash to pieces the rock-hard hearts of YHVH’s obstinate, rebellious and sinful people (Jer 23:29)?

Yeshua prophesied that in the last days false prophets would arise, and if possible, would deceive the very elect (Matt 24:11, 24). If Satan the adversary has his false prophets on the scene just prior to Yeshua’s return attempting to deceive YHVH’s people, will not YHVH have his true prophets likewise on the scene to warn, rebuke, provoke, incite, encourage, and give spiritual direction to his people?

Some Christian teachers through their unbiblical teachings on the subject of prophets and prophecy are inoculating YHVH’s people against believing that Jeremiah-type prophets will arise in the last days. It is taught that during the New Testament dispensation until the second coming the character and ministry of the prophets is totally different than those during Old Testament times. Since we are living during the so-called age of grace, these teachers reason, YHVH’s prophets now speak only words of edification, exhortation and comfort, and any modern prophets who warn, rebuke, judge, call YHVH’s people to repentance, or otherwise speak in harsh, black and white terms could not be sent of YHVH, for that type of prophet is a thing of the past. They tell us that such a prophet brings strife, division, and disharmony within the church, makes people feel uncomfortable in their sin and therefore cannot receive the church system’s stamp of approval. Is it reasonable to assume that YHVH will limit himself and the going forth of his Word to the constraints of these soft-shoe teachers?

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Jacob’s End Times Prophecies

Genesis 47:28–49:28, Jacob’s end times prophecy. The Jewish sages recognize that this final portion of Genesis chronicles Jacob’s wish to reveal to his sons some prophetic understandings pertaining to Israel’s long and numerous exiles, culminating in “the Final Redemption” or “the Second Exodus” (i.e. the return of Israel [all twelve tribes, not just the Jews] from her exile in “Babylon” at the end of the age just prior to and after the return of Messiah at which time the two houses of Israel will be reunited under Messiah Son of David).

Jacob states the timing of his prophecies regarding his sons in Genesis 49:1 when he predicts what will befall them “in the last days.”

The Jewish sages believe that prior to the establishment of the Messianic Age (or Millennium), all Israel will go into a time of darkness, gloom and exile.

The sages deduct the timing and tenor of this prophecy from the fact that the Torah scroll fails to place the customary nine spaces between the last word of the previous parashah (or Torah portion), which ends in verse 27 and the next parashah, which begins in verse 28. There is only a one space gap in the Hebrew letters between these two Torah portions, which predicts the “closing in” of Israel as they go into exile and captivity in Egypt.

The sages believe that these prophecies not only predicted Israel’s first exile into  and redemption from Egypt but also a latter, end times one as well because biblical history often repeats itself. This is evident by the fact that some of these prophecies weren’t fulfilled until Messiah came the first time and afterwards. More on this latter, so stay tuned.


 

Pharmakeia and Sorceries in the Last Days

Revelation 9:21, Sorceries. Gr. pharmakeia. Pharmakeia is a methodology to circumvent Elohim and to open the doorways into the supernatural. It is the mix of science along with magical arts, occultic or hidden, demonic, angelic or paranormal realm and medicine, potions, or herbs for sorcerous reasons to open the mind to put one in contact with what is beyond the gate or the boundaries YHVH has established between the natural and supernatural (including the demonic) realm.

The Satanic spirits in Revelation chapter nine inhabit the pit, and those who resort to pharmakaia are coming into contact with spiritual entities either from the pit, or from realm of darkness beyond this earth. Satan is both the angel of the bottomless pit (Rev 9:11) and the prince of the power of the air (Eph 2:2). 

There are gateways or portals down to the pit and out into the universe in either case to contact beings from other dimensions. 

There are good and evil portals. YHVH revealed to Jacob a good portal or gateway to heaven at the site of the future Temple Mount when he dreamed of the ladder to heaven. Yeshua is the gateway or doorway to the Father in heaven (John 1:51). But there are evil gateways that men an open up illicitly through pharmakeia or drug induced states. 

Biblical examples of individuals illicitly opening up gateways into the evil realm beyond man’s perception include the witch of Endor who summoned the dead (1 Sam 28:3ff). We also see this with the slave girl who was possessed with a spirit of divination and who followed Paul in Macedonia (Acts 16:16–18).

Those who come under the influence of pharmakeia put themselves into a drug-induced state to activate gateways into the supernatural realm. It’s a form of rebellion against YHVH’s established boundaries that man is not supposed to cross. Witchcraft is also taking something holy and exploiting it for personal purposes. This is what Samuel accused Saul of doing when he kept the cattle he was supposed to kill, so that he could at a later time offer up an illicit sacrifices without going through the proper Levitical protocols. Samuel equated this act of rebellion with witchcraft (1 Sam 15:23). Saul had this proclivity, for he had offered up a witchcraft sacrifice once before (1 Sam 13:9–13). Samuel rebuked him for it, yet Saul was willing knowingly to repeat the same mistake again, which was strictly forbidden.

Taking that which YHVH has ordained to be used legally one way and defiantly using it another way for one’s own selfish purposes is an act of rebellion and witchcraft.


 

Satan’s Last Days Wrath—A Divine Judgment Upon Rebellious Humans

Revelation 9:1,  A star fall from heaven. Likely Satan when he is cast out of heaven.

Revelation 9:1, Key to the bottomless pit. Elohim will give Satan the freedom to release evil spirits imprisoned in the abyss who will go forth to torment men as part of YHVH’s wrath against rebellious men. Perhaps this relates to the perennially enigmatic and troubling passage found in Jude 6 (cp. 1 Pet 3:18–20; 2 Pet 2:4). It seems that the evil, locust-like spirits may be the fallen angels that either rebelled with Lucifer and or were the ones who interacted with humans in the antediluvian world (Jude 6; 1 Pet 3:18–20; 2 Pet 2:4).

Revelation 9:1, Bottomless pit. This Greek term (abussos phrear) indicates a large, cavernous hole, pit or abyss with a small opening or orifice like a well and is found several other places in the book of Revelation (Rev 9:2, 11; 11:7; 17:8; 20:1, 3). The bottomless pit is analogous to the deepest sheol in the Tanakh (Deut 32:22; Ps 86:13; Isa 14:15) or tartaroo (2 Pet 2:4) and is the place where the angels who rebelled in the time of Satan are being held in chains of restraint awaiting their judgment day (see 2 Pet 2:4). It is where Satan will be cast at the beginning of the Millennium (Rev 20:1–3) and is to be distinguished from the lake of fire where Satan (and presumably his demons) will be cast at the end of the Millennium to be tormented forever (Rev 20:10).

This passage indicates that YHVH will open the bottomless pit and allow the evil spirits imprisoned therein to torment men for a period of time as part of his judgments against wicked men.

Revelation 9:2, Smoke. Wherever this pit is, it appears to be a place of fire, heat and smoke. The opening of the pit by Satan first releases so much smoke that it darkens the sun and air. This phenomenon is the first sign that the demons of the pit are about to be released. After this follows their release and their tormenting of unredeemed humans. This is the wrath of Satan against humanity that precedes the wrath of Elohim. Since Elohim is permitting these demons to torment humans, it is, in reality, an extension of his judgment or wrath against the wicked. Since unsaved humans have rejected Elohim, and more and more are becoming enamored with and turning to outright Satan worship, Elohim his turning them over to the powerful forces of darkness they are seeking over him. These humans will discover what it’s like to live in a hellish world where those they wish to serve have full reign to torment them—a world devoid of the protective grace of a merciful Creator. 

Revelation 9:3, Locusts. These locusts don’t fit the description of the Joel 1 locusts, which destroy all vegetation. These locusts do not (v. 4). Perhaps the vegetation of Joel 1 is a symbolic metaphor. If so, then is the vegetation of Rev 9:3 also symbolic? If so, how do we still reconcile these two passages, since the symbolic analogy of the one would be opposite the other?

These locusts are likely hybridized theriomorphic or animal-shaped descriptions of demonic spirits that have been released from the abyss where they have been kept imprisoned since their rebellion (see 1 Pet 3:19; 2 Pet 2:4), but who will be released to torment rebellious men as part of Elohim’s end time judgments.

Revelation 9:3, Power. (Gr. exousia) These scorpion, humanoid demons have the divine permission, physical and mental power, the authority and right, the ability and strength to torment unredeemed men.

Revelation 9:4, Those men…seal of Elohim. This is yet another proof that YHVH’s saints are on the earth during this period (the first half) of the wrath of Elohim, and that the pre-tribulation rapture theory is an unbiblical hoax. What is the seal of Elohim? If we let Scripture interpret Scripture, this seems to be a reference to the sealing of the Set-Apart Spirit of the saints (e.g. John 6:27; Rom 4:11; 2 Cor 1:22; Eph 1:13; 4:30; 2 Tim 2:19 cp. Rev 7:3).

Revelation 9:5, Not kill…tormented. Torment (Gr. basanizo) means “to test the quality of a metal; to question by applying torture; to vex with grievous pains (of body or mind), to torment; to be harassed, distressed.” The demon-locust humanoid creatures can torment and torture unsaved humans, but not kill them. Those who have the seal of Elohim on their foreheads will be untouched. It seems that this will be an amazing opportunity for the saints to evangelize the spiritually lost.

Revelation 9:5, Torment of a scorpion. The symptoms of most scorpions stings are relatively harmless, but the bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus, also known as C. exilicauda), found in the American southwest, is an exception. This species of scorpion is venomous and can cause more serious injury and illness. Initial symptoms include immediate pain and sometimes numbness or tingling in the region stung. Serious symptoms, most common among children, include restlessness, muscle spasms, abnormal and random head, neck, and eye movements, anxiety and agitation, sialorrhea and diaphoresis. In some cases, a scorpion bite can prove fatal for children. In adults, tachycardia, hypertension, increased respirations, weakness, muscle spasms, and fasciculations may predominate.

Revelation 9:7, Locusts. Likely some demonic, grotesque gargoyle-like demonic creature (or chimera) that is currently inhabiting the bottomless pit, but that will be released at this time for YHVH’s intended purposes.


 

Apostasy, Exile, Repentance and Regathering of the Twelve Tribes

A Last Days Prophecy

Deuteronomy 4:25–32, Apostasy, exile, enslavement, repentance and regathering of lost and scattered Israel to the Promised Land in the last days.  This passage deals with the exile and return of the Israelites. Because of syncretism with the idolatrous practices of the nations around them, YHVH prophesied that the Israelites would be scattered among the nations of the world. Conversely, YHVH prophesies that “in the end of days” (verse 30)—a metaphor for “the last days” or “the end of the age”—he would hear their pleas for help, have mercy on his people, and remember his covenant with them. According to some noted Jewish sages, “the end of days” refers to the period just before the coming of Messiah, and this repentance is the same as that which Moses mentions later in 30:1–2 (The ArtScroll Stone Edition Chumash, p. 965). Here are some additional quotes from some noted Jewish scholars on the subject of Israel returning to YHVH from its exile among the nations:

The future King Messiah (Messiah Son of David) will not only redeem the Jews from exile, but will restore the observance of the Torah-commandments to its complete state, which will only be possible when the Israelites are living in the Land of Israel. At this same time, “there will be an ingathering of the dispersed remnant of Israel. This will make it possible for the Davidic dynasty to be reinstated and for the observance of the Torah and its mitzvot [commandments] to be restored in its totality” (I Await His Coming Every Day, p. 35, [see also p. 38 quoting Rambam] by Menachem Schneerson, emphasis added). According to the Rambam (also known as Maimonides) in his Thirteen Principles of the Jewish Faith the resurrection of the dead will occur just after the coming of the Messiah and that the resurrection of the dead is a key element of the Final Redemption (ibid., p. 59).

The Jewish sages recognize that the ingathering of the exiles, including the ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom, will also return, be reunited with Judah and that the whole house of Israel will serve YHVH together (Ezek 20:32–37, 40–42) (Mashiach—the Principles of Mashiach and the Messianic Era In Jewish Law and Tradition, pp. 20-22, by Jacob Immanual Schochet quoting from Sanhedrin 110b; Bamidbar Rabba 16:25).

The ArtScroll Bereishis/Genesis Commentary, vol. 1(b) states in its commentary on Genesis 48:19 regarding Ephraim: “R. Munk explains: ‘while it is true that the dispersion [of the descendants of Ephraim and Manasseh] was caused by the unfaithfulness and sinfulness of Ephraim’s descendants (Hos 7:8ff), Jacob’s blessing was not in vain for “they will return to God” and will have their share in the world to come (Talmud Sanhedrin 110b).’ And R. Eliezer adds: ‘Even the darkness in which the Ten Tribes were lost will one day become as radiant as the day’ (according to the version of Avos d’Rabbi Nosson 36). And in the perspective of history, did not these exiled children of the Patriarchs enlighten the nations among whom they were scattered? They did so by teaching their conquerors the fundamental ideas of the knowledge and love of God, ideals they had never forsaken. Hence they too have a messianic vocation and their Messiah the Maschiach ben Yosef, Messiah son of Joseph (Talmud Succah 52a), also called Messiah son of Ephraim (Targum Yonasan on Exodus 40:11), will play an essential role in humanity’s redemption, for he will be the precursor of the Maschiach ben David, Messiah Son of David. It is therefore not surprising to find that the prophet Jeremiah (3:12) speaks affectionately of Ephraim. In this light, Jacob’s words, ‘his offspring will fill the nations,’ assume the significance of blessing” (pp. 2121–2122).

The regathering of not only the Jewish people (largely from the tribe of Judah), but Israelites from the other eleven tribes is predicted by Yeshua and the apostolic writers as well (see Acts 3:21; Matt 10:6; 15:24). 

Now note how the following phrases or concepts are used in Scripture, who they relate to, and how this relates to the statements of the Jewish sages and to our text under consideration as pertaining to Israel (including both the houses of Israel (i.e. Ephraim/Samaria or the Northern Kingdom and Judah or the Southern Kingdom) being scattered among the nations for their disobedience to YHVH, and then their being regathered and restored as a united kingdom and obedient people under the rule of King Messiah:

  • Dispersed: The house of Judah was dispersed out of the Land of Judah into Babylon because of her spiritual adultery (Isa 11:12; 56:3, 6–8; Ezek 37:21; John 7:35).
  • Far and Near: Solomon prophesied the Israelite/Ephraimic exile, that Judah would be exiled to a near country (Babylon) and Ephraim would be exiled to a far country (Assyria) (1 Kings 8:46; see also Dan 9:7). Paul makes reference to the purpose of his ministry being to preach peace to those who were afar off and them that are near that through Yeshua both may have access through the Spirit unto the Father (Eph 2:16–17).
  • Gather/Regather(ing): Ezek 34:13; 36:24; Isa 56:8
  • Israel, Assimilated Into the Nations: Isa 7:8: Hos 1:10; 4:1,6; 5:3; 2:23; Deut 28:64; 
  • Lost (assimilated, but not lost): Hos 8:8; Amos 9:9; Deut 28:64; Hos 5:3 
  • Mixed With the Nation: Ephraim mixes himself with the nations: Hos 7:8; 8:8
  • Outcasts: The House of Israel are outcasts (YHVH cast them out of the Land of Israel for their spiritual adultery, Isa 11:12; 56:8)
  • Return: In the last days, the sons/children of Israel (both Ephraim and Judah) shall return to YHVH and his Torah (Hos 3:5).
  • Scattered/Sown (Jezreel): YHVH would sow or scatter the descendants of the House of Israel (Ephraim) (throughout the nations, Hos 1:4).
  • Scattered Sheep of Lost Israel to Return By YHVH’s Hand: Ezek 34:11,16
  • Scattered: Ephraim scattered over the face of the whole earth, Ezek 34:6,12; 36:19; 37:21; John 11:52. In regards to Deuteronomy 32:26 which says, “I said, I would scatter them into the corner …” The ArtScroll Stone Edition Tanach Chumash comments, “This refers to the exile of the Ten Tribes, who were scattered to an unknown place where they have never been heard from again. On the phrase of the same verse, “I would make the remembrance of them to cease from among men…” the same Chumash states, “This is a reference to the exile of Judah and Benjamin, the Davidic kingdom from which today’s known Jews are descended.” It goes on to say that though nations would seek to destroy Israel entirely YHVH would never allow Israel to become extinct or disappear. Israel’s perpetual existence is constant reminder of YHVH’s plan and eventually Israel will thrive and fulfill YHVH’s intention for it” (pp. 1105–1106). Samson Raphael Hirsch in his commentary on the Pentateuch on the same verse translates the phrase, “I would scatter them into the corners …” as, “I would relegate them into a corner…” and then says that the Hebrew here refers to the “extreme end of a surface, the side or corner …” He, too, relates this fate to the Ten Tribes who would be scattered “to some distant corner of the world, where, left entirely to themselves, they could mature towards serious reflection and ultimate return to Me …” (p. 650).
  • Swallowed Up Among the Nations (Gentiles): Hos 8:8

 

The Cosmic Struggle Between Elohim and elohim as It Relates to the Saint (Pt 5)

To understand the context of what is written below, it is essential to read  the previous parts of this series. — Natan

What can the saints do in response to this tidal wave of evil that is sweeping across the planet and engulfing everything, or descending that is descending upon the earth like a giant, sticky spider web?

First, the saint must recognize the enemy and the problems we face. Ignorance is not bliss! Ignorance of what is going around us is still ignorance! It is folly to simply pull the covers over our heads and go back to sleep hoping it will all go away. Denial doesn’t change the facts on the ground.

…lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. (2 Cor 2:11)

Second, we must resolve to stand and to fight. This is something each of us must determine to do based on a deep and committed resolve. Most people defer to others. This is cowardice and dereliction of the duty Yeshua gave us when he commanded us to stand and to fight for him.

Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Eph 6:11–12)

Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1Tim 6:12)

What would YHVH have you to do? What part in the battle do you play? Ask him, and he will tell you. Doing nothing is not an option. He’s not looking for capability; he’s looking for availability. He’ll take our weaknesses and inabilities and turn them into abilities and strengths for his glory. He’s looking for a willing heart to obey him. A slothful and unprofitable servant is not a servant of Yeshua!

Third, we must know what we’re fighting for.  In a war, soldiers are fighting for an objective: a hill, a city, a country, an enemy stronghold or an ideology. If they don’t know what they’re fighting for, they will lose morale and the resolve to continue fighting. The saint is fighting for the advancement of the kingdom of Elohim—for the light of his truth to be spread across the earth. He is fighting for truth and righteousness. Anything that is opposed to that is the enemy of YHVH and the saint. If this is not clear in the mind and heart of the saint, then he, like the ancient apostate Israelites, will fall prey to the allurements of the demon-gods/elohim of the heathen nations around them.

This evil people, who refuse to hear My words, who follow the dictates of their hearts, and walk after other elohim to serve them and worship them, shall be just like this sash which is profitable for nothing. (Jer 13:10)

And it shall be, when you show this people all these words, and they say to you, “Why has YHVH pronounced all this great disaster against us? Or what is our iniquity? Or what is our sin that we have committed against YHVH our Elohim?” then you shall say to them, “Because your fathers have forsaken Me,” says YHVH; “they have walked after other elohim and have served them and worshiped them, and have forsaken Me and not kept My Torah-law.” (Jer 16:10–11)

Fourth, fortify your faith with the following promises from the word of Elohim. In these perilous times, the Word of Elohim will be our rock and fortress! We must know it well and have it deeply entrenched in our minds and hearts. Now, not then, is the time to prepare ourselves spiritually in this regard. Here are some wise instructions and promises from the Word of Elohim to the last days saints that will strengthen and encourage us in the dark days just before the second coming of our Messiah.

Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:33–36)

Seek YHVH, all you meek of the earth, who have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility. It may be that you will be hidden In the day of YHVH’s anger. (Zeph 2:3)

But now, thus says YHVH, who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. (Isa 43:1–2)

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for YHVH your Elohim, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. (Deut 31:6)

Then Moses called Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and of good courage, for you must go with this people to the land which YHVH has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall cause them to inherit it. (Deut 31:7)

And YHVH, He is the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed. (Deut 31:8)

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (Ps 23:4)

For this cause everyone who is godly shall pray to You In a time when You may be found; surely in a flood of great waters they shall not come near him. (Ps 32:6)

YHVH of hosts is with us; the Elohim of Jacob is our refuge. Selah (Ps 46:7)

A Michtam of David when he fled from Saul into the cave. Be merciful to me, O Elohim, be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, Until these calamities have passed by. (Ps 57:1)

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. (Ps 91:15)

But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony. Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But not a hair of your head shall be lost. (Lu 21:12–18)

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (1 Pet 4:12–13)

Here is what the saints must do to prepare for the end times. It is imperative that you take these admonitions seriously; your  physical and spiritual life will depend on it. Preparedness is essential to not only surviving, but to thriving in the final days of this age. Now is the time to saddle for battle! Don’t allow yourself to fall into a false sense of secure, apathetic complacency as most will do. Peter warned us against this natural human tendency.

Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Master and Savior, knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation.” For this they willfully forget: that by the word of Elohim the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of water and in the water, by which the world that then existed perished, being flooded with water. But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are reserved for fire until the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. YHVH is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. But the day of YHVH will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of Elohim, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless… (2 Pet 3:1–14)

Here are some practical things each saint must do in light of the perilous times we are now facing.

  • As the children of Israel in Egypt got under the blood of the lamb and YHVH passed over them sparing them from his most severe judgment against the first born, so the end time saints, too, will overcome the evil one by appropriating the blood of the Yeshua the Lamb of Elohim (Rev 12:11). From this place of safety, they will be protected from evil’s onslaught because they have the seal of Elohim on their foreheads (Rev 7:3). It is true that some saints will be martyred by the demonic forces of the antichrist (Rev 20:4), but the evil one can kill the body, not the soul and spirit of man.

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matt 10:28)

  • Repent of sin, so the Satan the accuser has no legal grounds upon which to accuse you before Elohim (Rev 12:10).
  • Walk in righteousness (i.e. obedience to his commands), so we’ll be close to YHVH and under his covering or protection.
  • Pray, pray and pray for YHVH’s wisdom, guidance and direction.
  • Learn to hear and obey the voice of Elohim.
  • Walk in the power of Yeshua.
  • Know the Word and will of YHVH. Pray and live it.
  • Know who you are in Yeshua and align yourself with that before taking a stand against the enemy.
  • Submit to Elohim, draw near to him, repent of sin and from that position of strength you can successfully resist the devil and he will flee from you (Jas 4:7–8)
  • Take every evil thought captive to the Word, will and Spirit of Eloihm whereby you will not come under the control of the evil one (2 Cor 10:4–5).
  • Do spiritual warfare by knowing and quoting the Scriptures and using them to oppose the devil as Yeshua did when he was tempted in the wilderness (Matt 4:1–11).
  • Love not your life unto death (Rev 12:11). Have no fear of anything, but walk in love, the supernatural power of the Spirit with a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7; 1 John 4:18). The devil’s only power over us is fear of death. If we’re in Yeshua, we’ll have no fear of anything.
  • Learn to walk by faith.

Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of Elohim, you may receive the promise: “For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul. (Heb 10:35–39)

Heed the threefold message or the everlasting gospel of the three angels of Rev 14:6–12.

Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth–to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people—saying with a loud voice, “Fear Elohim and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” And another angel followed, saying, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of Elohim, which is poured out full strength into the cup of His indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the [Torah] commandments of Elohim and the faith of Yeshua.


 

The Cosmic Struggle Between Elohim and elohim as It Relates to the Saint (Pt 4)

To understand the context of what is written below, it is essential to read  the previous parts of this series. — Natan

Why are Satan and his demons so murderously opposed to the saints of Elohim? This is, in part, because Elohim also refers to his people as el and elohim or mighty ones. Yeshua confirms this when quoting this scripture in John 10:34–35 as he applies the term elohim to YHVH’s own saints.   

God [elohim] stands in the congregation of the mighty [el]; He judges among the gods [elohim]. How long will you judge unjustly, and show partiality to the wicked? Selah. Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy; free them from the hand of the wicked. They do not know, nor do they understand; they walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are unstable. I said, “You are gods [elohim], and all of you are children of the Most High. But you shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.”  Arise, O God [elohim], judge the earth; for You shall inherit all nations.  (Ps 82:1–8)

This is an amazing truth! YHVH Elohim who created man in his very own image (Gen 1:26) wants his redeemed saints to become like him as children of Elohim (1 John 3:1–3; John 1:12), although they will never be equal to him (Isa 43:10–11; 41:4; 44:6–8). This is an honor and a position that he will not hand out willy-nilly to anyone and everyone who self-identify as “saints.” At this point, we most soberly consider the words of Yeshua in Matt 7:21–23.

Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’

Before YHVH confers upon his saints the gift of immortality as sons of Elohim, he will first test and judge his people—his righteous elohim who are part of his congregation—(“judgement begins first at the house of Elohim”; 1 Pet 4:17) to determine their level of righteousness (“the righteous are scarcely saved”; 1 Pet 4:18) to determine if they are worthy of the honor of being called “the sons of Elohim.” In the days prior to the second coming, he will even send his saints strong delusion to determine how loyal they are to his truth (2 Thess 2:11–12). Many so-called saints who haven’t placed a high enough value on YHVH’s truth will fall away spiritually (2 Thess 2:3) becoming victims to the deluding and lying signs and wonders of the spirit of lawlessness (or Torahlessness) of the satanic end times Man of Sin (2 Thess 2:5–10).

Elohim will use the idol-gods/elohim in the heart and minds of his people to rise up in judgment against his saints. That which they fear other than Elohim will be their testing point (Isa 66:4 cp. Jer 5:19 and 2 Thess 2:11, 2–12 for context). Will they fear, obey and trust Elohim and fear their idols more?

In the mean time, YHVH Elohim is currently knocking on the door of the house of the saints both collectively and individually to awake them out of their spiritual slumber in an effort to incite them to repent of their lukewarmness (Rev 3:20 and verses 14–21 for context). Those who refuse to awaken from their spiritual lethargy he will spank with the spiritual paddle of the demon-gods, false elohim through persecution and tribulation of the saints. Everything that can be shaken will be shaken (Heb 12:25–29). The Bible refers to this as the Great Tribulation (Matt 24:21; Rev 7:14 cp. 2:22). Many of these sleeping saints will repent and be spiritually refined and brought back to him “out of [the] great tribulation” of the last days (Rev 7:13–14).

As YHVH Elohim used the demon gods or elohim, evil Baal spirits of ancient Babylon in the past to punish his people for their spiritual lassitude and declension, he will use the demonic entities of Mystery Babylon the Great to do the same in the last days as a giant paddle applied to the collective posteriors of his lukewarm and backslidden saints. He will then brake the paddle of Babylon over his knee and destroy that antichrist system (Rev  18:2, 21), even as he raised up and then destroyed ancient Babylon in the past.

Even now, the evil spirits or demon-elohim are being loosed on this earth in these last days to bring about an antichrist world system and to torment and persecute YHVH’s saints who oppose this system and who will be the righteous elohim to replace the  demonic and rebellious elohim.

We see the manifestation of these false demon elohim being loosed on the earth and manifested clearly in front of our eyes in the following areas:

  • Antichrist spirit: Islam (a demonic spirit predicated on killing, stealing, destroying, lying and sexual perversion).
  • Spirit of Torahlessness in the mainstream church and throughout our society.
  • Deluding spirits of Bible teachers who are  taking our focus off centrality of gospel message as Yeshua commanded his disciples to preach and as apostles carried forth.
  • Spirit of anger among people in general.
  • Spirit of sexual perversions—especially being foisted upon our young people.
  • Spirit of pharmakeia (drugs) being mainstreamed and encouraged behind the scenes by big government to enslave the masses and turn them into easily controlled zombies and idiots, doped up an addicted druggies (through both prescription and illegal drugs), and vaccines and chemical additives to foods that poison and weaken people by turning healthy people into sickly people (e.g. vaccines, food additives, GMOs, geo-engineering or aerosol spraying, etc.)
  • The blurring of lines between the genders, so that men are acting like and taking on the appearance and lifestyles of women and vice versa.
  • The mindless addiction of many people to entertainment such as sports, video games, movies and music and all the ungodly filth that comes through these vehicles.
  • The rise in the proliferation of witchcraft and satanism and eastern religious ideas lacing movies, music, education, entertainment.
  • Pornography which is easily accessible and destroys lives, marriages and families.
  • The sexualization of young children including imposing the perversions of homosexuality and transgenderism upon them through the influences of the education system and entertainment e.g. the film industry, YouTube, social media, contemporary music).
  • The rise in global terrorism.
  • The rise in big brother statism its control over the populace.
  • The rice of the police state and government surveillance.
  • The loss of privacy.
  • The interconnectedness of big business and  government elites to control the masses and to create a world wide Luciferian-oriented spiderweb over everyone in an effort to social engineer people toward their demonic vision of utopia on earth.
  • And the list goes on and on as to Satan is tightening his evil noose around the collective neck of humanity.

What can the saints do in response to this tidal wave of evil that is sweeping across the planet and engulfing everything, or descending that is descending upon the earth like a giant, sticky spider web?

Stay tuned for part 5 of this series.