Q: Would you please explain Matthew 24:44?

Published: November 28th, 2003

Matthew 24:44 reads, "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."

Q: What is the "key of David," spoken of in Scripture?

Published: December 12th, 2003

The term "key of David" is only mentioned once in the New Testament, in Revelation 3:7, and a deviation of the term, i.e., "key of the house of David," is only mentioned once in the Old Testament, in Isaiah 22:22.

Q: Who are the 144,000 mentioned in Revelation 7?

Published: December 26th, 2003

Much has been speculated as to the identity of the 144,000. However, if we let the Bible speak for itself, the answer becomes rather obvious.

Let us begin our analysis by quoting from a letter of the Worldwide Church of God, dated November 1987:

"In verse 1 [of Revelation 7] we find that the Day of the Lord -- the time of terrible plagues -- is to be delayed temporarily UNTIL the servants of God have been sealed. According to the sequence of prophesied events, this sealing is yet IN THE FUTURE. It will occur AFTER THE COMING GREAT TRIBULATION AND THE APPEARANCE OF THE HEAVENLY SIGNS, but just BEFORE THE PLAGUES of God's judgments are poured out.

Q: You teach that the Bible contains end-time prophecies, involving many modern nations and peoples, referring to them with ancient names. Would you please explain the identity of major modern nations, as mentioned in Biblical prophecy?

Published: January 16th, 2004

We are glad to do so. The following is a very brief summary and only relates, in passing, a few pieces of the Biblical, historical or archeological evidence, to raise interest and curiosity:

Q: Some claim that Elijah will appear before the return of Jesus Christ and that he may even still be alive. How do you explain the passage in Matthew 17:11 in which Jesus is quoted as saying that Elijah will come and restore all things?

Published: May 14th, 2004

In the context of Matthew 17, Peter, James and John accompany Jesus to a high mountain, and then, in verse 9, Jesus says, "'Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead.'" In this vision they witness Jesus being transfigured and appearing in His glorified state. Along with Jesus, Moses and Elijah also appear. In the parallel account of Mark 9, these disciples wonder at the instruction from Jesus when He spoke of His resurrection: "So they kept this word to themselves, questioning what the rising from the dead meant" (verse 10).

Q: Who is the king of the South?

Published: July 30th, 2004

Many believe, based on prophecies contained in the 11th chapter of the book of Daniel, that immediately before the return of Jesus Christ, a powerful Arab leader or "king of the South" will still arise in the Middle East. Daniel 11:40-41 says: "At the time of the end the king of the South shall attack [or: push at] him [the king of the North]; and the king of the North shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter the countries, overwhelm them, and pass through. He shall also enter the Glorious Land, and many countries shall be overthrown..."

Q: What does the future hold for Ireland, prior to Christ's return?

Published: September 3rd, 2004

Ireland consists of two separate countries -- the South, also known as Eire, and the North. The North (or Northern Ireland) has been historically linked with Great Britain. The British people, and the people in Northern Ireland, are descendants from Ephraim, one of the two sons of Joseph (a son of Jacob or Israel). The people in the South (or Southern Ireland) are descendants from ancient Dan, one of the 12 sons of Jacob. (Please note that the descendants of Dan can also be found today in Denmark. This Q&A only discusses Dan's descendants in Southern Ireland).

History shows that the original settlers of the Emerald Isle were the "Thuatha De Danaan" - - descendants from ancient Dan.

Q: You teach that Daniel 11:40-45 does not require a future "king of the South," although you say that the emergence of one is possible. Being familiar with the teachings of the Worldwide Church of God under Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong, didn't Mr. Armstrong teach that there must be another king of the South?

Published: November 12th, 2004

First of all, it is important to realize that we must receive our teachings from the Bible; so even IF Mr. Armstrong HAD taught that there would still have to be a future king of the South, we still would have to be able to back up such a teaching with Scripture. We have published several articles in previous Updates (Q&A in Update 154; Comments from our Readers in Update #156), and we have also placed a StandingWatch program regarding the king of the South on our Web, showing that Scripture does NOT DEMAND a future king of the South. In addition, we are also pleased to state that Mr. Armstrong did NOT teach something contrary to this fact, several false claims of some notwithstanding.

Q: Will prophetic events be "cut short"--that is, will some prophecies not come to pass?

Published: December 31st, 2004

The Scripture that some use to teach this concept is Matthew 24:22. Various translations use the terms "cut short" in quoting the words of Jesus Christ. For instance, the NIV states: "'If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.'" Similarly, the NKJV renders this verse: "'And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened.'"

What days will be "cut short" or "shortened"?

Q: How do you understand Daniel 9:27?

Published: January 7th, 2005

Let us read Daniel 9:24-27 in context, in the Authorized Version:

Q: Is it possible that God may delay or accelerate end-time prophecies?

Published: January 14th, 2005

This possibility exists. In fact, several Scriptures suggest this to be the case.

For instance, we read in 2 Peter 3:12 that we are to be "looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God" -- the return of Christ. The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible ("Strong's") defines the Greek word, "speudo," (under #4692), translated as "hastening," as "to 'speed'..., urge on...; by impl. to await eagerly; (make, with) haste unto."

Q: Will the Jews build a temple in Jerusalem, prior to Christ's return?

Published: March 18th, 2005

When we consider all the Biblical Scriptures related to this topic, it appears very likely that a temple will be built in the near future, prior to Christ's return.

When Christ was asked by His disciples what the sign of His coming and of the end of the age [of this present civilization] would be (Matthew 24:3), He referred to the "great tribulation" (verse 21) and, at that same time, "'the abomination of desolation,' spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place" (verse 15; compare, too, Mark 13:14, adding, "where it ought not"). In Luke 21:20, in the parallel account, Christ is quoted as saying, "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is near."

Q: Would you explain Revelation 20:10? Does this Scripture say that the beast and the false prophet will be tormented in hell fire forever?

Published: June 3rd, 2005

A superficial reading, especially in many of the modern translations, might indeed lead us to conclude the existence of a never-ending torture of the beast (a military leader) and the false prophet (a religious leader) in hell. However, analyzing the Scripture carefully, a different conclusion is warranted.

The Authorized Version (AV) translates Revelation 20:10, as follows:

"And the DEVIL that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet ARE, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever."

Q: Would you please explain Jesus' statement in John 2:19, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up..."? Is this statement, as a direct quote of Christ, to be believed as presented to us in the English language?

Published: July 15th, 2005

Let us read the Scripture in context, by quoting John 2:18-22:

"(18) So the Jews answered and said to Him, 'What sign do You show to us, since you do these things?' (19) Jesus answered and said to them, 'Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.' (20) Then the Jews said, 'It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?' (21) But He was speaking of the temple of His body. (22) Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said."

Q: Would you please explain the meaning of the word "earthquakes" in Matthew 24:7? Does this word just refer to earthquakes, or is more involved?

Published: August 26th, 2005

In Matthew 24:7, Jesus Christ speaks about end-time events and warns His listeners: "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there shall be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places."

In Matthew 24:7, and in the parallel Scriptures of Mark 13:8 and Luke 21:11, the Greek word for "earthquakes" is "seismos," meaning, according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, No. 4578, "a commotion, i.e. (of the air) a gale, (of the ground) an earthquake--earthquake, tempest."

Q: Please explain Christ's saying, "Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together."

Published: March 3rd, 2006

Actually, Christ spoke at least twice about the body attracting eagles. His words are recorded in Matthew 24:28 and in Luke 17:37. In both cases, He spoke about His return to this earth. However, we might note a few distinctions, as we look at His statements more carefully.

Let us review His sayings one at a time.

In Matthew 24:26-28, Christ says: "'Therefore if they say to you, "Look, He is in the desert!" do not go out; or "Look, He is in the inner rooms!" do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.'"

Q: What is the sign of Christ's return?

Published: November 7th, 2003

In Matthew 24:3, the disciples asked Christ three questions: "'Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the SIGN of Your coming, and of the end of the age?'"

Christ had just spoken about the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem (vv. 1-2). The disciples wanted to know more about the destruction of the temple, erroneously believing that that event would coincide with Christ's return. As it turned out, the temple was destroyed in 70A.D., but Christ would not return for many years. Christ explained to them that there would have to occur first numerous significant events, before He would return.

In Mark 13:4, the disciples are quoted as asking, "'Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the SIGN when all these things will be fulfilled?'"

Q: Is it true that Christ's message to the seven churches in chapters 2 and 3 of the book of Revelation applies to all of us today? If so, what are the points of encouragement and admonitions to take note of? Are those "safe" who belong to an organization which does "the Work of God"?

Published: June 2nd, 2006

As we point out in our free new booklet, "The Mysteries of the Bible," Christ's "message pertained to the Church of God for all times, including seven historic Church eras... [and] also... seven local Church congregations at the time of John" (p. 23). In this Q&A, we will strictly address Christ's timeless message to individual Christians.

Christ's message INCLUDES a warning and admonition to all Christians throughout the existence of the Church. This can be seen by Christ's repeated admonition to ALL seven churches, to "hear what the Spirit says to the churches" (compare Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13 and 22).

Q: Does God work out His Master Plan for Man according to a pre-determined time table?

Published: December 22nd, 2006

Perhaps no other single event captures the focus of religionists more than that of the return of Jesus Christ. From the first generation of the Church of God until now, people have been utterly convinced that Christ would return in their own lifetime. That has led some into bitter disappointment and even an absolute abandonment and rejection of their faith!

In spite of what people concoct in their own imaginations, is God actually working out His plan according to a pre-determined time line?

Let’s see what God reveals in His written Word, and in doing so, let the Bible teach us a true understanding and a balanced perspective on this important question.

Q: Would you please explain Revelation 17:9? Who or what are the seven heads of the scarlet-colored beast, on which the fallen woman sits, and who is that woman?

Published: September 21st, 2007

There can be little doubt what Revelation 17:9 describes. The previous verses in the same chapter talk about a fallen woman sitting on a scarlet-colored beast, with seven heads and ten horns. As we explain in our free booklet, "Europe in Prophecy," the scarlet-colored beast on which the woman sits depicts the last seven revivals of the ancient Roman Empire.

In Biblical terminology, a religious entity is many times depicted as a woman. The true Church of God is identified as a woman (Revelation 12:6, 13-17); a virgin (2 Corinthians 11:2); and the wife of Jesus Christ (Revelation 19:7). Likewise, Christ's true followers are identified as "virgins" (Matthew 25:1; Revelation 14:4).

Q: Will the Jewish people build an actual Temple in Jerusalem before the return of Jesus Christ?

Published: November 9th, 2007

The indications are that they will. Although there have been feeble attempts to build a new Temple ever since the destruction of the Second Temple of God by the Roman army in 70 AD, none have been successful—to date!

Some historical and contemporary background will shed light on the ongoing desire of Jews to once again establish a Temple in Jerusalem, which would include daily animal sacrifices in accordance with Old Testament guidelines, which are clearly revealed to commence soon in Jerusalem, before they are suppressed again by an invading power (compare Daniel 12:11).

Q: In a recent Q&A on the throne of David (Update #315), you quote Jeremiah 33:17, 21 for your assertion that there will always be a descendant sitting on the throne of David, until Christ returns. You state that after the beginning of the Babylonian captivity of the house of Judah, the throne of David was transferred to Ireland, then to Scotland, and finally to England, where it is occupied today by Queen Elizabeth II. But how does this square with the passage in Jeremiah, saying that a "man" or a "son" of David, and not a woman, would always be sitting on that throne?

Published: November 30th, 2007

Although in the vast majority of cases, men have been sitting on the throne of David, it is indeed correct that on a few occasions, a woman, rather than a man, occupied the throne.

We are told that the Kingdom of Great Britain was formed on May 1, 1707, with the merger of the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland, which had been in personal union under the House of Stuart since 1603. In 1801 Great Britain merged with the Kingdom of Ireland to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. After most of Ireland left the union in 1922, in 1927 its name was amended to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Q: Would you please explain the timing of the events described in the 38th and 39th chapters of the book of Ezekiel? Also, who are those nations which will try to attack Israel?

Published: January 4th, 2008

These chapters describe an attack of Gentile countries against "Israel." Some have concluded that this attack will occur PRIOR to the return of Jesus Christ. Others believe that it is the same attack which is described in the 20th chapter of the book of Revelation; that is, at the END of the Millennium or about 1,000 years AFTER Christ's return.

Q: Would you please explain the time sequence and meaning of the seven seals, mentioned in the Book of Revelation?

Published: January 11th, 2008

Many have been confused about the scroll with seven seals (compare Revelation 5:1), and they have tried to attach human interpretations to them. But John saw, in a vision, that no one was able to break and explain the seven seals, except for the Lamb, Jesus Christ (compare Revelation 5:3, 5-7, 9; 6:1). We therefore need to turn to Jesus Christ's Words in order to understand the seven seals. And IF we accept the explanations of Jesus, as written, then the meaning becomes very clear.

Q: Would you please explain Christ's message to the seven churches in the Book of Revelation, as recorded in chapters 2 and 3?

Published: January 18th, 2008

We have already written about this subject in two previous Updates (Update #157 and #187). We explained that it has long been understood and taught by God’s Church that Christ’s message to the seven churches has at least a three-fold application. First, it relates to seven literal churches or church congregations in Asia Minor at the time of John. Then, it describes the history of the Church in seven distinct prophetic "Church eras" from the time of John until Christ’s return. And finally, it points out character traits of spiritual strength and weakness of God’s people throughout the existence of the New Testament Church. Christ’s message to the seven churches, although in some

Q: Would you please explain the identity of the two beasts, which are described in the 13th chapter of the book of Revelation?

Published: February 1st, 2008

In the thirteenth chapter of the book of Revelation, two "beasts" are described. As we will see, these are symbolic descriptions of powerful world empires.

1) The First Beast (Revelation 13:1-10):

Beginning with Revelation 13:1, John sees in a vision a fantastic beast rising out of the sea, which has seven heads and ten horns, and on his head ten crowns. This reminds us of Satan’s description in Revelation 12:3 as "a great, fiery red dragon having seven heads and ten horns..." Revelation 12:9 identifies the dragon as Satan the devil. This shows that Satan is giving his power to the beast (compare Revelation 13:2, 4).

Q: Would you please explain what is being described, in symbolic language, in Revelation 17 and 18?

Published: February 8th, 2008

Chapters 17 and 18 of the book of Revelation need to be read together with Revelation 13. We discussed the events in Revelation 13 in the Q&A in our last Update (#329). We pointed out that the first beast, which is described in Revelation 13 as having seven heads and ten horns, identified past military and economic resurrections--as well as one still future resurrection--of the ancient Roman Empire in continental Europe. We explained that the second beast, which is also described in Revelation 13, is identified as a religious power. It is depicted as working hand in hand with some of the political and military resurrections or revivals of the first beast. We showed that the first "beast" can describe the revived Roman system, as

Q: Who were the Nicolaitans, mentioned in Revelation 2?

Published: February 15th, 2008

We find two references in the Bible about the Nicolaitans, and they are both contained in the second chapter of the book of Revelation. In His message to the church of Ephesus, Jesus Christ says in Revelation 2:6: "But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate." Again, in His message to the church of Pergamos,  He says in Revelation 2:15: "Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate."

Much has been speculated about the origin and exact nature of the Nicolaitans and their teaching.

Q: Please explain the identity of the 144,000 in Revelation 7 and 14, the great multitude in Revelation 7, and the woman and the dragon in Revelation 12.

Published: February 22nd, 2008

The question as to the exact identity of the 144,000 and the great multitude, as well as the woman and the dragon, has puzzled many over the decades and centuries.

1) The 144,000 and the Great Multitude in Revelation 7:

Q: Would you please explain the concept of the "New Jerusalem," as described in Revelation 21 and 22?

Published: February 29th, 2008

We are told in Revelation 21 that John sees in a vision that God will create a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21: 1; compare 2 Peter 3:13; Isaiah 65:17-18; 66:22; Psalm 102:25-26)—apparently after this earth and the heavens have been burned up (compare 2 Peter 3:7, 10). There will be no more sea on the new earth (Revelation 21:1)

Q: Please explain Jesus' sayings in Mark 9:43-48.

Published: March 7th, 2008

This particular passage has caused great confusion for many readers, and has prompted some Christians to adopt wrong and unbiblical teachings.

This is what Jesus said in Mark 9:43-48:

Q: Would you please explain the "image of the beast," as described in Revelation 13:14?

Published: June 13th, 2008

In the thirteenth chapter of the book of Revelation, John sees two "beasts.” These are symbolic descriptions of powerful world empires.

Beginning with Revelation 13:1, John sees in a vision a fantastic beast rising out of the sea, which has seven heads and ten horns. This beast received a deadly wound, but was healed. We explained in previous Q&A's and some of our booklets, that this beast describes the Roman Empire at the time of John, its subsequent fall and its ten revivals or resurrections throughout history until the time of Christ's return. The last and tenth resurrection is unfolding in Europe right now before our very eyes. (For more information, please read, for example, our free booklet, "Europe in Prophecy.")

Q: Do you believe that the "Virgin Mary" has appeared to children and others with messages from God?

Published: June 20th, 2008

We don't believe that Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, appeared to anyone after she had died in the first century. Mary is dead and buried, sleeping the sleep of death in her grave, and awaiting her resurrection to eternal life at the time of Christ's return. The Bible makes it very clear that all who died in Christ will be resurrected when Christ comes back to this earth--not before then (compare 1 Corinthians 15:22-23, 50-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). As we explain in our free booklet, "Do We Have an Immortal Soul?", those who die sleep a dreamless sleep of death, without any knowledge, activity, consciousness or thought. For this reason alone, Mary could not have really appeared to anyone after she had died.

Q: Would you please explain the meaning of the different dates and numbers mentioned in the book of Daniel, i.e., 2,300 evenings and mornings, 1,260 days, 1,290 days and 1,335 days?

Published: June 27th, 2008

Before attempting to address those numbers, we need to understand--as we pointed out in detail in previous Q&As--that we do not know the exact day of Christ's return. Matthew 24:44 reads: "Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." In Mark 13:32-33, we read Christ's words: "But of that DAY and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is." Neither Christ, nor God's angels, nor we "know" [present tense!] the DAY and the HOUR of His coming. Christ seems to be saying that we won't know the exact time -- a phrase broader than just a 24-hour-day. The reason for this conclusion is given in Acts 1:6-7:

Q: Can you explain what is meant by the word "glorification"? In what way will we be glorified--and in what way was Jesus glorified?

Published: July 4th, 2008

We read in Romans 8:29-30 that God will glorify those whom He has called in this day and age. It is explained in verse 29 that He predestined those whom He foreknew "to be conformed to the image of His Son." Even though the Scripture says, in verse 30, that He already "glorified" them, this is still a future event, but it is absolutely certain to occur.

John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible explains that "they are already glorified in Christ, their head and representative... It is an observation of a Jewish writer... that a thing 'which is decreed to be', is spoken of in the past tense: 'this is the Scripture style concerning things decreed, and such is the glorification of all God's elect.'"

Q: Please explain Christ's words in Matthew 24:34, saying that "this generation" would not pass away until "all these things" have taken place.

Published: August 15th, 2008

Actually, Christ's words, as quoted above in the book of Matthew, are also recorded in Mark 13:30 and in Luke 21:32. Christ had been asked privately by four of His disciples (Mark 13:3) "... when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" (Matthew 24:3). Christ proceeded to describe events which would take place, leading to His Second Coming and to the end of THIS age and the beginning of the Millennium--the NEW age of the wonderful world tomorrow.

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah's vision of the "woman in a basket," as recorded in Zechariah 5:5-11?

Published: August 29th, 2008

Several visions are recorded in the book of Zechariah. Some commentaries try to interpret these visions by limiting them to events at the time of Zechariah. However, as the book deals with the end time and the return of Jesus Christ (compare Zechariah 14:1 ff), it must be viewed, foremost, as containing prophecies for our time today.

In this light, let us review Zechariah's vision of the woman in a basket, as recorded in Zechariah 5:5-11, where we read:

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah's vision of the "flying scroll," as recorded in Zechariah 5:1-4?

Published: September 5th, 2008

As we mentioned in our Q&A in Update #359, when discussing Zechariah's vision of the woman in a basket (Zechariah 5:5-11), Zechariah's visions must be viewed, foremost, as containing prophecies for us today.

In Zechariah 5:1-4, we read the following:

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah's vision of the "four chariots," as recorded in Zechariah 6:1-8?

Published: September 12th, 2008

As we mentioned in previous Updates (360 and  359) when discussing Zechariah's visions of the "woman in the basket" and the "flying scroll," as recorded in the fifth chapter, Zechariah's visions must be viewed, foremost, as containing prophecies for us today.

In Zechariah 6:1-8, the following is recorded:

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah's vision of the "four horns and the four craftsmen," as recorded in Zechariah 1:18-21?

Published: September 19th, 2008

As stated in previous Updates, (361, 360 and  359) when discussing Zechariah's visions of the "woman in the basket," the "flying scroll" and "the four chariots," as recorded in the fifth and sixth chapters, Zechariah's visions must be viewed, foremost, as containing prophecies for us today and our immediate future.

Zechariah 1:18-21 states:

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah's vision of the "measuring line," as recorded in Zechariah 2:1-5.

Published: September 26th, 2008

As explained in previous Updates, when discussing Zechariah's visions of the "woman in the basket," "the flying scroll," "the four chariots," and the "four horns and the four craftsmen," as recorded in chapters 6, 5 and 1, respectively, of the book of Zechariah, Zechariah's visions are to be viewed together and contain foremost prophecies for us today and for our immediate future.

While commentaries are divided as to the intended timing of some of the visions, virtually all agree that the vision of the "measuring line" applies to the future Millennium, when God's Kingdom will be established on this earth.

Zechariah 2:1-5 reads as follows:

Q: Would you please explain God's words in Zechariah 2:6-13, following the vision of the measuring line in Zechariah 2:1-5?

Published: October 3rd, 2008

 As we explained in our last Update (#363), the vision of the "measuring line" clearly deals with prophetic events for us today and for our immediate future. It should therefore be self-evident that the statements immediately following that vision are likewise addressing events, which will shortly come to pass.
 
Zechariah 2:6-13 reads:
 

Q: Would you please explain the "Vision of the High Priest," as recorded in Zechariah 3:1-10?

Published: October 10th, 2008

 As is the case with all the visions given to Zechariah, the vision of the high priest relates foremost to our days--even though it might also refer to an initial and preliminary fulfillment at the time of Zechariah.
 
Zechariah 3:1-10 reads as follows:
 

Q: Would you please explain the "Vision of the Lampstand and Two Olive Trees," as recorded in Zechariah 4:1-14?

Published: November 7th, 2008

As we mentioned in previous Q&A's, the visions in the book of Zechariah relate foremost to our days--even though some of them might also refer to initial and preliminary fulfillments at the time of Zechariah.

Zechariah 4:1-14 reads as follows:

Q: Can you explain the fate of the city of Jerusalem at the time of Christ's return, as revealed in the book of Zechariah?

Published: November 21st, 2008

 Numerous passages in the book of Zechariah and in other places in the Old and New Testament reveal that the city of Jerusalem will be facing a terrible time of destruction, but that it also will be subsequently blessed beyond human comprehension.

Jesus stated in Luke 21 that Jerusalem will be surrounded by Gentile armies which will make the city "desolate" (verse 20).  He added that the city will be "trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled" (verse 24). We read in Daniel 11:41 that the "king of the North" -- a military leader -- will "enter the Glorious Land" and "plant the tents of his palace between the seas and the glorious holy mountain" (verse 45)--apparently establishing the city of Jerusalem as his new headquarters.

Q: Are Bible translations valid, and how can we really trust that we are able to understand the original meaning of Scripture?

Published: December 12th, 2008

Bible translations are most certainly the way we can understand the Word of God in our own language. The Bible offers proof of this fact, and it further reveals additional keys that will determine whether or not we have true understanding of what is written.

On the Day of Pentecost, miraculous events took place that included the giving of God’s Holy Spirit. Note what occurred:

Q: Are there really any Old Testament Scriptures in the book of Zechariah which foretell or relate to the First Coming of Jesus Christ?

Published: December 19th, 2008

There are indeed numerous Scriptures in the Old Testament, including in the book of Zechariah, which give precise details on the appearance of the Messiah about 2,000 years ago. As those passages can be found throughout the pages of the Old Testament, this fact alone proves the divine inspiration of the Holy Scriptures.

For instance, we find literally dozens of biblical references to Christ's First Coming in the book of Isaiah. We are just quoting a few selected examples:

Q: When reading the book of Zechariah, we find that God will bring terrible punishment on the modern descendants of the ancient houses of Israel and Judah. Why is God so angry with them?

Published: January 2nd, 2009

As it is rightly pointed out in the question, the punishment, as described in the book of Zechariah, deals foremost with the MODERN descendants of the ancient houses of Israel and Judah. It will be inflicted on them just prior to the return of Jesus Christ.

We understand that the modern descendants of the houses of Israel and Judah include the peoples of the USA, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the modern Jews (who live inside and outside the state of Israel). For more information, please read our free booklet, "The Fall and Rise of Britain and America."

Q: Would you please explain the Vision of the Horses, as described in Zechariah 1:8-11

Published: January 23rd, 2009

We explained in an earlier Q&A on Zechariah's vision of the four chariots (in Zechariah 6:1-8), as well as in our free booklet, "Angels, Demons and the Spirit World," that the horses mentioned in this first vision, as well as other visions in the book of Zechariah, describe angels or spirit beings. Angels can appear or manifest themselves in the form and shape of animals, including horses, as well as men. In Zechariah's first vision, which begins in Zechariah 1:8, angels manifest themselves both as men and as horses. Notice the exact wording:

Q: Would you please explain the meaning of the coronation of the High Priest Joshua, as reported in Zechariah 6:9-15.

Published: February 6th, 2009

We mentioned in a prior Update, when discussing the vision of the High Priest Joshua in Zechariah 3:1-10, that Joshua is a type of Jesus Christ. This fact becomes even more obvious in the passage, which describes the coronation of Joshua.

Zechariah 6:9-15 reads:

Q: Would you please explain Mark 13:27?

Published: May 8th, 2009

Some have used this passage to teach a secret rapture just before or at the beginning of the Great Tribulation. However, that is not what Christ was referring to in this Scripture.

Mark 13:24-27 discusses the VISIBLE return of Jesus Christ (verse 26), AFTER the Great Tribulation and the heavenly signs (verse 24). Verse 27 reads: "And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of heaven."

In the past, we discussed at length the false teaching of a secret rapture. For more information, please re-read our Q&A on 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

In that Q&A, we also wrote regarding Mark 13:27:

Q: Could you please explain what is meant with the "fulfillment" of "the times of the Gentiles?"

Published: June 19th, 2009

The Bible uses this particular term only once, in Luke 21:24. It is important to notice the context.

Christ had been asked by some of His disciples when the temple would be destroyed (Luke 21:5-7). In reviewing the parallel passage in Matthew 24:1-3, we learn that they had also asked Him when the end of the age--the end of this present evil civilization--would occur, and when He would return--apparently believing that all of these events would be interconnected.

Christ began to warn of coming religious deception, wars, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, pestilences, and fearful sights and great signs from heaven. He explained that all these were the beginning of sorrows--the beginning of the end.

Q: Would you please explain Nebuchadnezzar's dream, as recorded in Daniel 4?

Published: June 26th, 2009

Much prophetic speculation has ensued pertaining to Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 4, but if we allow the Bible to interpret itself, the answer to the meaning of that dream becomes very clear.

Note, first, the following highlights from that chapter.  We are told that Nebuchadnezzar had a dream which made him afraid (verse 5), but none of the "wise men of Babylon" could explain the meaning of the dream. Finally, Daniel was brought before the king (verse 8). We will recall that Daniel had explained to the king his first dream about a statue, as recorded in Daniel 2.

Q: Does Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 4 have prophetic meaning for us today?

Published: July 3rd, 2009

Over the years, many ideas have been advanced to the effect that Nebuchadnezzar's dream, as described in Daniel 4, has some kind of hidden prophetic meaning for us today. In the last Q&A, we discussed Nebuchadnezzar's dream in much detail. We pointed out that the dream referred to that ancient king and predicted his seven years of insanity to punish his pride. We showed that the dream was fulfilled, exactly as God had pronounced it, and that King Nebuchadnezzar subsequently repented of his pride at the time when his sanity was restored to him.

Q: Why will Satan attempt a second coup to try to overthrow God?

Published: July 10th, 2009

The Bible does not say specifically why Satan will attempt a second coup, but it does give us several hints and indications which we might want to consider.

Prior to the physical creation, God brought into being the spirit world of angels. After God had created the physical universe and the earth, an archangel named Lucifer was placed over one third of the angels here on earth to beautify it. This was long before man was created with the ultimate potential to become a full-fledged member of the God Family. Nothing is said in the Bible that Lucifer or any of the angels had that same potential which would later be given to man.

Q: You make continual reference to accomplishing “the work of God” in your publications and sermons; however, doesn’t the scripture in John 6:29 show that simply believing in Jesus Christ fulfills doing the work of God?

Published: August 7th, 2009

Understanding our part and responsibility regarding the work of God is a pivotal issue for those who claim to follow the Christian faith! The fact is that there is great confusion about exactly what the work of God means.

To truly comprehend what Jesus taught about the work of God, we must consider not only the verse in John, but, additionally, we need to compare other references in God’s Word. First, here is the text in question:

“Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent’” (John 6:29).

Q: Why was there slavery in the Old Testament? Why didn't the early apostles condemn slavery? Will there be slavery in the Millennium?

Published: August 14th, 2009

We can safely say that it was never God's intent for man to engage in the kind of slavery which has brought so much misery and pain on others. We can also say that it was never God's original intent that there should be any form of slavery. And we conclude that it will be very unlikely that there will be any slavery in the Millennium.

To give an overview of the ORIGIN of slavery in the Bible, let us quote from The Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics, by James Hastings:

Q: What are the biblical proofs for your teaching that members of the Church of God will be protected at a particular "place of safety," here on earth, during the Great Tribulation?

Published: October 16th, 2009

Jesus Christ warned His end-time disciples of the Great Tribulation, which will be so terrible that nothing like it ever happened before and will ever happen again (Matthew 24:21; Daniel 12:1). At the same time, Christ challenged us to watch and pray always to be counted worthy to escape or be protected from the Great Tribulation. Even though God is certainly capable of protecting us wherever we might be, HE HAS DECREED that He will protect His very elect at a particular place here on earth.

We would like to quote the following excerpts from chapter 8 of our free booklet, "Is That in the Bible?--The Mysteries of the Book of Revelation," pages 54-55:

Q: What, exactly, are the mansions in John 14:1-3, which Christ is preparing for His disciples?

Published: November 27th, 2009

Christ said the following in John 14:1-3:

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

First of all, please notice that after Jesus has prepared these "mansions," He will come again to the earth and receive His disciples to Himself so "that where I am, there you may be also." When Christ spoke these words, He was here on earth. That is where His disciples "may be also"--here on earth, not in heaven.

Q: How did John the Baptist fulfill going “in the spirit and power of Elijah,” as prophesied by Gabriel and recorded in Luke 1:17?

Published: December 4th, 2009

The answer to this question has far reaching implications! First, consider that the people in the time of Jesus Christ looked for the prophetic Elijah—the one promised in the Book of Malachi.

By way of background, here is the reference in question, in fuller context—quoting Luke 1, verses 15-17:

Q: When Christ returns to set up the Kingdom of God, will He return visibly and bodily?

Published: January 1st, 2010

This seems to be a relatively simple matter to determine from the Bible, but there are myriads of different ideas that exist about this question. Let us look at some basic Scriptures.

In Matthew 24:26-30, Jesus Himself said:

Q: Would you please explain Revelation 12:17?

Published: March 26th, 2010

Reading Revelation 12:17 in context, it shows that in the future, just prior to Christ's return, some in God's Church will be protected from the Great Tribulation and Satan's wrath, while other Christians will have to go through that terrible time of martyrdom.

Revelation 12:17 reads: "And the dragon [Satan the devil] was enraged with the woman [the Church of God], and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ."

We begin our discussion of this passage by quoting from chapter 13 of our free booklet, "Is That in the Bible?--The Mysteries of the Book of Revelation":

Q: Would you please explain Matthew 24:20?

Published: April 2nd, 2010

In Matthew 24, containing the famous "Olivet prophecy," Jesus Christ explained the "sign of His coming and the end of the age" (verse 3). After discussing the "beginning of sorrows" (verse 8), He pointed at the worldwide preaching of the gospel (verse 14), followed by the Great Tribulation (beginning with verse 15). In that context, Jesus said, in verses 19-22:

Q: Would you please explain Zechariah 13:3?

Published: April 9th, 2010

The passage in question refers to the time of the Millennium, after Christ's return, when the Kingdom of God will be established here on earth.

Zechariah 13:2-3 reads:

"'(Verse 2) It shall be in that day,' says the LORD of hosts, 'that I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, and they shall no longer be remembered. I will also cause the prophets and the unclean spirit to depart from the land. (Verse 3) It shall come to pass that if anyone still prophesies, then his father and mother who begot him will say to him,"'You shall not live, because you have spoken lies in the name of the LORD." And his father and mother who begot him shall thrust him through when he prophesies...'"

Q: What will happen to the spirit in man of those who die the second death?

Published: April 23rd, 2010

In our last Q&A (in Update #438, dated April 15, 2010), we explained that God gives every person, apparently at the time of conception, a "spirit," which the Bible calls the "spirit in man." This spirit is not a soul--the person is the soul--nor is it a conscious being. When the person or the soul dies, the spirit in man returns to God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7). It is being stored in heaven until the time of that person's resurrection.

Q: If Isaiah 53 prophesies about the first coming of Jesus Christ, why do the Jews reject this understanding?

Published: May 7th, 2010

It is true that most Jews today do not consider the passage in Isaiah 53 as a prophecy pertaining to the first coming of the Messiah. We will discuss their rationale later in this Q&A. First, let us briefly point out that Jesus Christ was and is the Messiah; and that He fulfilled precisely the prophecy in Isaiah 53.

For instance, Isaiah 53:1 ("Who has believed our report?") is quoted in John 12:37-38 in reference to Jesus.

Isaiah 53:3 ("He is despised and rejected by men") finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ (compare John 1:10-11; Luke 19:14; Mark 6:3).

Isaiah 53:4 ("Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows") is quoted in Matthew 8:17 in reference to Jesus.

Q: Is it true, that chronologically speaking, Genesis 1:1 is not the beginning of recorded history in the Bible?

Published: May 14th, 2010

In fact, there are a few major events in the Bible that transpired before the opening verse of the Bible.  

Perhaps surprisingly, the earliest record can be found in the New Testament.  In John 1:1 we find an event that transcends our understanding of time and reveals an existence eons before the physical creation of the universe. 

John 1:1-2 reads: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God."

Q: What is known about the biblical "Urim and Thummim"?

Published: May 28th, 2010

The first time that the Bible mentions "Urim and Thummim" is in Exodus 28:30, in connection with the garments for the high priest; especially, the "ephod" and the "breastplate of judgment." The breastplate was to be placed on the ephod (Exodus 28:28), and verse 30 reads: "And you shall put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim, and they shall be over Aaron's heart when he goes in before the LORD." A similar statement can be found in Leviticus 8:8.

Q: Would you please explain the concept of the "Jubilee Year"?

Published: June 4th, 2010

In Old Testament times, God established a system whereby the poor would not be in perpetual poverty. God did this in His great mercy, knowing what human nature is like, and that there are those who accumulate and those who squander. He did not want a few extremely wealthy individuals ruling over the masses who were just getting by, or who became and were poor. In reflecting on the situation of this world, Christ said in Matthew 26:11: "For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always." He knew that as long as Satan rules this world; as long as human carnality exists; and as long as societies work in the way they do; the poor would always be among us.

Q: Can you shed some light on the significance of a "red heifer" to be born prior to the coming of the Messiah?

Published: June 11th, 2010

Let us first of all understand that there is nothing in the Bible demanding a red heifer to be born prior to the return of Jesus Christ. It is true, however, that some Jews and Christians have attached an end-time application to the ancient Old Testament ritual of the killing of a red heifer for purposes of purification. As will be explained herein, this ritual is no longer in force. But some Jews and Christians believe that the ritual must be applied today, as a prerequisite for the commencement of sacrifices and the building of a third temple, and they expect a red heifer soon to be born. (In fact, when conducting a Yahoo search on the Internet, one receives about 280,000 results for "red heifer."). 

Q: Does Revelation 3:12 mean that there will be nothing to do in the Kingdom of God when it says “and he shall go out no more”?

Published: June 18th, 2010

Let us read what this verse says: "He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name."

Does this mean that we will be looking into the face of God for eternity or strumming on harps with no constructive work to do?

Q: Please explain the passage in Habakkuk 1:5

Published: July 23rd, 2010

Even though most scholars feel that the prophet Habakkuk ministered during the "death throes" of the ancient nation of Judah--just prior to their Babylonian captivity--nothing is known about the prophet, including his age or his family.

It is clear, however, that Habakkuk's writings are not limited to the time of ancient Judah. Rather, the book of Habakkuk is a prophecy about our times today. For instance, we read in Habakkuk 2:1-3:

Q: Acts 2:44 describes the beginning of the Church of God, and it states that everyone “had all things in common.” How does this apply, today?

Published: July 30th, 2010

As other Scriptures show, this event was unique to that time in the building of the Church of God; however, this example also reveals the type of commitment that may be needed when the necessity arises.

The context of this account happened surrounding the Day of Pentecost and then the immediate period of time subsequent—perhaps several weeks and months.

Let’s first take a look at the account as recorded in Acts 2:42-47: