Missed Opportunities

by Laura Harris

Recently, I was cleaning out my “in-box” – a 12 inch pile of things to do and things to file — when I came across a card addressed to Paul Voss. I started to write Paul a note when he was first diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. However, I got preoccupied with other tasks and never completed my letter to him.  Now I will never have the chance to tell him in this life how much I missed him and that I was praying for his healing, or to encourage him to “hang in there” while undergoing treatment.

In hindsight, I wonder what was so important that I couldn’t take 10 minutes to write to an ailing friend.  How often do I neglect to tell friends and family through my words or actions how much I love them?  Do I overlook opportunities to help friends and neighbors in need because of other so-called pressing issues?  H. Jackson Brown, Jr., a New York Times best-selling author, is quoted as saying: “Nothing is more expensive than a missed opportunity.” I need to constantly remind myself to seize the day–to do what is most important first and don’t let opportunities to show love pass me by.

What is meant by the statement in Matthew 16:27 that refers to us being rewarded according to our works? What works are Christians supposed to perform?

Understanding the true application of what Jesus stated is vitally important, and far too many people misapply what is meant.

The exact quote from Matthew 16:27 is as follows: “‘For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.’”

This statement is amplified by Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.”

The implication of Paul’s teaching points to how Christians fulfill their calling as members of the body of Christ—the Church of God (compare Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:24).

The Bible reveals the kinds of “works” that are acceptable to God, and these are done in the context of His calling us into the truth. Our reward that will be given to us entails our bearing fruit through the power of God’s Holy Spirit. Jesus carefully explained that we are to bear fruit (compare John 15:1-16).

What kind of fruit? A contrast is drawn between “the works of the flesh” and the “fruit of the Spirit” in Galatians 5:19-23. The works of the flesh are actions in rebellion against God’s laws, while the fruit of the Spirit is the outgrowth of obedience to God. Either one or the other of these opposing lifestyles frames our work—the way of this world or the way of God.

Paul challenges Christians to “…be imitators of God as dear children” (Ephesians 5:1). Continuing in chapter 5, he enumerates a different way of living, and he calls those who practice these vile actions “…sons of disobedience” (verse 6). In the next verse he warns us: “Therefore do not be partakers with them.” We find a similar warning to God’s people in Revelation 18:4: “And I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.’”

The kinds of works that are acceptable to God are the same kinds of works that Jesus Christ accomplished (compare Matthew 17:5). What were Jesus’ works?

The answer is found in what Jesus testified about Himself: “‘…for the works which the Father has given Me to finish—the very works that I do—bear witness of me, that the Father has sent Me’” (John 5:36). Jesus also said: “‘…My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work’” (John 4:34). In the prayer of Jesus Christ to His Father that is recorded for us in John 17, Jesus says, “‘…I have finished the work which You have given Me to do’” (verse 4). He continues in His prayer and mentions in both verses 14 and 16: “‘They [His disciples] are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.’”

Yet, while being separate from the world in its ungodly practices, Jesus was sent into the world so “that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17)! Note what Jesus taught: “‘The spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD’” (Luke 4:18-19).

Jesus spoke of these kinds of works when He gave an answer to John’s disciples about Who He was: “Jesus answered and said to them, ‘Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them'” (Luke 7:22).

In considering what kind of works we are to be doing, we see in the example of Jesus Christ that He focused on what would ultimately be of the most help—He preached the good news of the Kingdom of God (compare Mark 1:15). Jesus Christ has also left this instruction for us: “‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven’” (Matthew 5:16).

Our “good works” are focused on preaching the gospel, but we have further responsibilities. Like Jesus, we are to reach out to others in our sphere of contact. Paul states: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10); and: “But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:16).

Jesus taught that we should consider those in need: “‘When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor rich neighbors, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just’” (Luke 14:12-14).

The application for us is the same as it was for Jesus. His actions were focused on the work given to Him to preach the gospel. In the course of His ministry He was able to help, to heal, to even feed and to give hope! However, Jesus understood that His role was to point people to God’s Kingdom: “Jesus answered them and said, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him’” (John 6:26-27).

Some have mistakenly adopted an attitude that does not follow the true example of Jesus Christ when it comes to their purported “Christianity”: “‘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!”’” (Matthew 7:21-23).

The principle of God’s Word is that we do good whenever we can—that serving others in love is true godliness (compare 1 Corinthians 13:3). Carefully note the following concept as we prepare for the rewards God offers to those who love Him: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7).

The kinds of works we should be sowing include the following: “‘But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For he is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful’” (Luke 6:35-36).

And, Paul, speaking of the righteous judgment of God, states: “[W]ho ‘will render to each one according to his deeds’; eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality, but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil…” (Romans 2:6-9).

Lead Writer: Dave Harris

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

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:

“(1) Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the [angel] of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him. (2) And the LORD said to Satan, ‘The LORD rebuke you, Satan! The LORD who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?’ (3) Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and was standing before the [angel]. (4) Then He answered and spoke to those who stood before Him, saying, ‘Take away the filthy garments from him.’ And to him He said, ‘See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes.’ (5) And I said, ‘Let them put a clean turban on his head.’ So they put a clean turban on his head, and they put clothes on him. And the [angel] of the LORD stood by.

“(6) Then the [angel] of the LORD admonished Joshua, saying, (7) ‘Thus says the LORD of hosts: “If you will walk in My ways, And if you will keep My command, then you shall also judge My house, And likewise have charge of My courts; I will give you places to walk Among those who stand here. (8) Hear, O Joshua, the high priest, You and your companions who sit before you, For they are a wondrous sign; For behold I am bringing forth My Servant the BRANCH. (9) For behold, the stone That I have laid before Joshua: Upon the stone are seven eyes. Behold, I will engrave its inscription,’ Says the LORD of hosts, ‘And I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day. (10) In that day,’ says the LORD of hosts, ‘Everyone will invite his neighbor Under the vine and under his fig tree.'”‘”

1) A Glimpse of the Millennium

As we explained in recent Updates, the visions of Zechariah are clearly pointing at the last days and the Millennium. Regarding the vision at issue, we find obvious millennial descriptions. First, we read in Zechariah 3:2 that the LORD has chosen Jerusalem–which will occur when Christ returns (compare Zechariah 2:12). Verse 10 uses the phrase, “in that day”–an expression describing the time just prior to and subsequent to Christ’s return. That verse says that “in that day,” everyone will invite his neighbor under his vine and fig tree. This is a clear reference to the Millennium.

Describing the “latter days” and the beginning of the Millennium, Micah says in Micah 4:4: “But everyone shall sit under his vine and under his fig tree…” This expression also points at a time of peace and security; the latter half of verse 4 continues: “And no one shall make them afraid.” As a temporary forerunner of certain millennial conditions, 1 Kings 4:25 describes peace and security under King Solomon in this way: “And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, each man under his vine and his fig tree… all the days of Solomon.”

The commentary of Jamieson, Fausset and Brown adds: “‘under … vine …[and] fig tree’ — [an] emblem of tranquil prosperity… Type of spiritual peace with God through Christ… and of millennial blessedness.”

2) “In One Day”
Verse 9 quotes the LORD as saying that He will remove the iniquity of the land “in one day.” Again, this is a reference to the time of Jesus Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4). He is the “BRANCH,” mentioned in Zechariah 3:8 (compare also Zechariah 6:12, as well as Isaiah 4:2; 11:1; and Jeremiah 23:5; 33:15).

We read, in Zechariah 14:4, that “in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives.” We are also told, in Zechariah 14:6-7, that “It shall come to pass in that day That there will be no light; The lights will diminish. It shall be ONE DAY Which is known to the LORD [God the Father]–neither day nor night. But at evening time it shall happen That it will be light.”

During this one day of 24 hours in length, Christ will “fight against those nations” which battled against Jerusalem (Zechariah 14:2-3), and the plague inflicted on them will be terrible (compare Zechariah 14:12-15). Christ will remove the iniquity of the land in one day (Zechariah 3:9) by destroying those who act wickedly.

We are also told, in Isaiah 66:7-9, that the Church of God will “deliver” her children in “one day.” Spirit begotten Christians will then be born again–they will be immortal Spirit beings. At the moment of their resurrection or change to immortality, they will be totally sinless–incapable of sinning. Whatever iniquity they still had will be forgiven, washed away and extinguished.

3) The end-time “Joshua”
Since the context of Zechariah’s vision of the “high priest” Joshua deals with the time of Christ’s return and the Millennium, God’s dealings with Joshua himself must also have prophetic and future application. Even though Joshua was a literal high priest at the time of Zechariah, the vision addresses foremost an end-time religious figure who obtains forgiveness of sins and who is given clean clothes–representing godly righteousness. “Filthy clothes,” on the other hand, describe sinful conduct, compare Isaiah 64:6 and Proverbs 30:12.

a) Clean Clothes

We read in Revelation 19:7-8:

“Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready. And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.”

We read in the book of Revelation about a great multitude “of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands” (Revelation 7:9). These are those “who come out of the great tribulation, and WASHED THEIR ROBES AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB” (verse 14). In other words, they repented of their sins, accepted the Sacrifice of Jesus Christ, obtained forgiveness and were clothed with clean garments, symbolizing God’s righteousness.

Christ also tells the angel or leader of the endtime church of the Laodiceans to buy from Him “white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see” (Revelation 3:14, 18). As the leader of the church of Laodicea reflects the attitude of the entire church of Laodicea, so Joshua’s unclean clothes reflect not just his own unrighteousness, but also the attitude and condition of the people whom he, as “high priest,” represents before God.

We can therefore conclude that the end-time “Joshua”–a spiritual leader in the Church of God–as well as many members of the end-time Church of God, will be spiritually cleansed. This might perhaps occur during the time of the Great Tribulation.

“Joshua” is described as “a brand plucked from the fire” (Zechariah 3:2); that is, he will be saved from Gehenna fire which will burn up the incorrigible wicked. Satan, the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10), will try to “object” to the role and function which God will bestow on “Joshua.” Satan will try to remind God of Joshua’s former sinful conduct. But God will respond by telling the devil that Joshua has received forgiveness, and that his former sins will be remembered “no more.”

b) Inscription on the Stone

At the same time, Joshua is reminded (compare Zechariah 3:7), to continue walking in the commandments of God–indicating that he might not have been that diligent before in doing so. If he proves faithful, God will engrave an inscription on the stone that He has laid before Joshua (compare Zechariah 3:9). This reminds us of Christ’s promise to His faithful disciples, as recorded in Revelation 2:17: “To him who overcomes I will give… a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.”

c) The Seven Eyes

In addition, we read in Zechariah 3:9 that there are “seven eyes” on the stone. These seven eyes are identified as seven angels or powerful spirit beings. We read in Zechariah 4:10: “… for these seven rejoice to see The plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. They are the eyes of the LORD, Which scan to and fro throughout the whole earth.” That God refers in the vision of the high priest to these seven angels shows their role in guiding and protecting Joshua, since they are “ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14).

d) A Wondrous Sign

Zechariah 3:8 identifies Joshua and his companions as a wondrous sign. The Nelson Study Bible writes: “Joshua and his companions were a sign because the reinstitution of the priesthood made public God’s continuing intention to fulfill His promises to His people”–including the promise of the First Coming of the “Branch”–the Messiah.

But since Zechariah’s prophecy deals foremost with end-time events, the activities of a future Joshua and his companions, will be a public sign–a witness or proof–for the return of Jesus Christ.

e) Judge God’s House

We are also told that Joshua is destined to judge God’s house and to have charge of His courts; and God will give him places to walk among his companions (Zechariah 3:6). This seems to imply a high position in God’s Kingdom, mainly in a priestly function. We are all promised to become kings and priests in the Kingdom (Revelation 5:10), ruling in the Millennium under the King of kings and the High Priest–Jesus Christ. But some may have a more predominant role as kings (compare Christ’s statements to the early apostles in Matthew 20:28), while others may fulfill primarily responsibilities as priests (which is apparently a task set aside for the end-time Joshua).
< br />Joshua might be given an important role during the Millennium to judge “God’s house”–which could refer to the physical descendants of the house of Israel and of the house of Judah. The Bible identifies the people of Israel and Judah as God’s people; therefore, the house of Israel could likewise be designated, in that sense, as “God’s house,” which is in need of God’s judgment (compare Amos 9:8-10; notice also Micah 4:1-2).

That Joshua will also have charge of “God’s courts” might refer to an important priestly position in the millennial temple–perhaps in a supervising capacity of physical Levites who will administer the temple service.

It is more likely, however, that God’s invitation to the end-time Joshua to judge God’s house and to have charge of His courts refers to a leadership position within the end-time Church of God, just prior to Christ’s return. We read that “the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God”–the Church (1 Peter 4:17). Also, Paul wrote that the Church should judge those who are inside (1 Corinthians 5:12; compare 1 Corinthians 6:2-3).

Further, the Church is called the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Ephesians 2:21). The physical temple included courts (Psalm 65:4; 84:2, 10). Psalm 116:18-19 states: “I will pay my vows to the LORD Now in the presence of all His people, In the courts of the LORD’s house, In the midst of you, O Jerusalem…”

4) Joshua Points Towards Jesus
In an ultimate fulfillment, the events surrounding an end-time “Joshua” point at, and are symbolic for, the role of THE High Priest, Jesus Christ.

As the commentary of Jamieson, Fausset and Brown points out: “The restoration of the glory of the priesthood is implied: first, partially, at the completion of the second temple; fully realized in the great High Priest Jesus, whose name is identical with Joshua [Hebrews 4:8], the Representative of Israel, the ‘kingdom of priests’ [Exodus 19:6]; once clad in the filthy garments of our vileness, but being the chosen of the Father… He hath by death ceased from sin, and in garments of glory entered the heavenly holy place as our High Priest [Hebrews 8:1; 9:24].”

Adam Clarke’s Commentary on the Bible adds: “‘Clothed him with garments’… [is] Referring to the vestments of the high priest. The true high priest, who is over the house of God, will establish his office among them [the people of Israel and Judah], when they shall acknowledge him as their Messiah, and seek redemption in the blood of the sacrifice which he has offered for their sins; and not for theirs only, but for the sins of the whole world.”

The stone, mentioned in Zechariah 3:9, which is placed before Joshua, also points towards Jesus Christ. Adam Clarke’s Commentary on the Bible writes:

“Alluding no doubt to the foundation stone of the temple: but this represented Christ Jesus: ‘Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a Stone, a tried stone, a precious Corner Stone, a Sure Foundation,’ [Isaiah] 28:16. This means Christ, and none other; on him his whole Church rests, as a building does on its foundation.” Compare also Ephesians 2:20-21.

On the other hand, Zechariah’s prophecy cannot be understood as speaking exclusively of Jesus Christ. Certain statements just do not apply to Christ at all (compare Zechariah 3:6-7). In addition, Joshua is pictured as a SIGN for the coming BRANCH (the Messiah), showing that foremost, a human being is addressed who will arise in the end time.

In conclusion, Zechariah’s vision of the high priest has great prophetic significance for us today and our future, since it addresses the time of Christ’s return and the establishment of God’s Kingdom on earth, when the Millennium begins. May God speed those days.

Lead Writer: Norbert Link

"Thirst" and "Ethics"

On Saturday, October 11, 2008, Eric Rank and Robb Harris will give split sermons, titled, respectively, “Thirst” and “Ethics.”
 
The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream.
 
The Speaking Schedule for the services during the Feast of Tabernacles is posted on the Web. All services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at the designated times. Just click on Connect to Live Stream.

NOTE:
 
Due to the Feast of Tabernacles, we will not publish a weekly Update on October 17 and 24, 2008. Our next Update will be published on October 30, 2008. 

Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock

The sermon, “The Mystery of Righteousness” from September 30, 2008, by Norbert Link, was posted on Google Video.
 
A new StandingWatch program was posted on StandingWatch, Google Video and YouTube. It is titled, “After the Great Crash of 2008.” In the program, Norbert Link discusses our present and future financial situation in the USA and around the world. Here is a summary of the program:
 
Note these comments in the American and European press: “Almost Financial Armageddon”; “Economic Pearl Harbor”; “Apocalypse–Now?”; “U.S. System Is Collapsing”; “US will lose its status as the Superpower”; “Attack on America from within”; and “American capitalism has created its own suicide bomber.” WHY are we in such deep financial trouble? And let us not naively assume that our current or future political leaders will rescue us and bring us back to financial prosperity!

Additionally, the following sermon has been posted on Google Video: Edwin Pope, Bible Study–Our Calling–A Privilege, October 8, 2005.

It’s Only to Be Expected

by Manuela Mitchell

Every year I try to prepare myself for the spontaneous trials that may occur around the Holy Day season. I never know how I will overcome these trials, but most of the time, they are already expected. My reactions vary in each occurrence. Even though I “plan” for a trial to occur, I still find myself impatient, frustrated, annoyed, insecure, and sometimes even helpless. Satan tries in every aspect to make things more and more difficult than they really are; while God allows the way of escape through self-recognition and prayer.

Just recently I realized that my dog training class, which I teach, fell on the Tuesday of a Holy Day. So, I talked to my class and asked if we could arrange a session on a different day of the week. Most were compliant, and some were neutral, but we all finally agreed on Monday evening because some couldn’t attend the class on any other day – which was great. When I got home, I realized that Monday evening was the start of the Holy Day. What was I thinking!!!!??
 
I felt horrible, and didn’t know what to do, since I thought I would lose my clients if I cancelled again. I prayed, asking for strength and to help convince my students’ minds that I wasn’t incompetent. I called my clients, re-apologized, and to my surprise, everyone understood; no one was angry and somehow, everyone was able to accommodate different schedules, including mine. I expected trials, but I didn’t expect to feel worried for 4 hours before I finally asked God for help and then informed my students about the second change. I should always expect room for improvement.

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

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:

(6) “‘Up, up! Flee from the land of the north,’ says the LORD; ‘for I have spread you abroad like the four winds of heaven,’ says the LORD. (7) ‘Up, Zion! Escape, you who dwell with the daughter of Babylon.’ (8) For thus says the LORD of hosts: ‘He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. (9) For surely I will shake My hand against them, and they shall become spoil for their servants. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me. (10) Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will dwell in your midst,’ says the LORD. (11) ‘Many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and they shall become My people. And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you. (12) And the LORD will take possession of Judah as His inheritance in the Holy Land, and will again choose Jerusalem. (13) Be silent, all flesh, before the LORD, for He is aroused from His holy habitation!'”

1) Who Is Speaking?

This passage in Zechariah 2:6-13 is one of those remarkable passages in the Old Testament which prove that God is not just one Person. We read that the LORD says that He will send the LORD. Notice carefully: In verse 10 we read that the LORD says that He is coming and that He will dwell in the midst of His people–an obvious reference to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ (more fully explained below). But then, we read in verse 11 that God’s people will know that the “LORD of hosts” has sent “Me” [i.e., the LORD, mentioned in verse 10]. So we see that the FATHER–called the LORD of hosts–will send Jesus Christ–also referred to as the LORD–back to this earth. The word “LORD” in the Old Testament can therefore refer to either the Father or the Son–depending on the context.

John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible states that the Personage speaking here [i.e., the LORD] is “Christ, sent by [the LORD, i.e.] God the Father; and who will be known and owned by the Jews, as well as by the Gentiles…, when they shall be converted, and antichrist shall be destroyed.”

Our free booklet, “God Is A Family,” describes and explains this fact in more detail. Under the headline, “The Prophet Zechariah Understood,” the following is pointed out:

“Reading in Zechariah 4:8–9: ‘Moreover the word of the LORD [in Hebrew, ‘Yahweh’] came to me, saying: The hands of Zerubbabel Have laid the foundation of this temple; His hands shall also finish it. Then you will know That the LORD [in Hebrew, ‘Yahweh’] of hosts has sent Me [“Yahweh”] to you.’

“We see in this passage that the LORD [‘Yahweh’] sent the LORD [‘Yahweh’]. The expression, ‘Yahweh,’ then is applied to both God beings. As we will see in more detail, both God the Father and Jesus Christ are referred to in Scripture as ‘Yahweh’—the ‘I AM’ (compare Exodus 3:14)—basically meaning, ‘the Eternal,’ or, ‘the Ever-living One.’ This fact alone proves that both the Father and Jesus Christ have always existed—that they are God beings, and that the Old Testament teaches that there is more than just one God being.

“Zechariah 6:9, 12–15 confirms this conclusion: ‘Then the word of the LORD [‘Yahweh’] came to me, saying… (v. 12) Then speak to him, saying, Thus says the LORD [‘Yahweh’] of hosts, saying: Behold, the Man whose name is the BRANCH! From His place He shall branch out, And He shall build the temple of the LORD [‘Yahweh’]; Yes, He shall build the temple of the LORD [‘Yahweh’]. He shall bear the glory, And shall sit and rule on His throne; So He shall be a priest on His throne, And the counsel of peace shall be between them both. Now the elaborate crown shall be for a memorial in the temple of the LORD [‘Yahweh’]… Even those from afar shall come and build the temple of the LORD [‘Yahweh’]. Then you shall know that the LORD [‘Yahweh’] of hosts has sent Me to you. And this shall come to pass if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD [‘Yahweh’] your God.’

“Again, we see, that the God being, referred to as ‘Yahweh’ here, sent the second God being, also referred to as ‘Yahweh.’ It is ‘Yahweh’ who says that ‘Yahweh’ sent Him to the people. This passage does not refer to just a human messenger, or to an angel to convey the ‘word of the LORD,’ while the ‘LORD’ is speaking about Himself. Note that the New King James Bible capitalizes the word ‘Me’ in ‘…the LORD of hosts has sent Me to you.’ They convey the intended meaning that the word ‘Me’ refers to one of the two God beings, and not to a human or angelic messenger.

“A third passage in the book of Zechariah, proving that the word ‘Yahweh’ applies to both God beings, can be found in chapter 2, verses 8–11. Again, we read what the LORD [‘Yahweh’] says, ‘And I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that the LORD [‘Yahweh’] of hosts has sent Me to you’ (verse 11).”

2) The Identity and Meaning of “Zion”
We read in Zechariah 2:7 that “Zion,” which is “dwelling with the daughter of Babylon,” is to flee out of the “land of the north.” Who is Zion?

We pointed out the following in one of our Q&As on “Zion,”:

“In the time of Abraham, the place where the city of Zion was built was known as Salem. It is from this city that Melchizedek reigned as king and priest of ‘God Most High’ (Genesis 14:18)… the meaning of Zion continued to expand in its usage throughout the Bible. Zion became synonymous with Jerusalem and Israel and was applied to the land and people that God had chosen, as well. For example, Jerusalem and its inhabitants are personified as the ‘daughter of Zion’ (Compare Isaiah 62:11; Zechariah 9:9; and, Matthew 21:5).

“Zion is especially significant regarding the many prophetic statements concerning the establishment of God’s Kingdom on the earth and the location of His rule. ‘For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place: “This is My resting place forever; Here I will dwell, for I have desired it”‘ (Psalm 132:13-14). Zion is called the ‘…city of God’ (Psalm 87:3) and the ‘…city of the great King’ (Psalm 48:2)… Another reference states: ‘For out of Zion shall go forth the law, And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem’ (Isaiah 2:3). Psalm 102, verse 16, explains: ‘For the LORD shall build up Zion; He shall appear in His glory.’

“The physical location of Zion is the place on this earth where Jesus Christ will assemble those who have part in the first resurrection (or who are changed from mortal to immortal — compare 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18): “Then I looked, and behold, a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with Him one hundred and forty-four thousand, having His Father’s name written on their foreheads’ (Revelation 14:1)…

“We see, then, that the meaning of Zion is far more than its original designation as a Jebusite stronghold or fortress. Zion depicts the headquarters for governmental administration — that is, for God’s rule in and from heaven; for a united Israel under King David; and eventually for the rule of God’s government over mankind. Importantly, Zion also describes the people and the land of promise as a symbol of the hope that God has prepared for all nations!”

As pointed out above, “Zion” can refer to the chosen people of God. This means that it can refer to and include, symbolically, the members of the New Testament Church of God. Christ will rule with His saints–Spirit-born Church members–from Jerusalem. As “Zion” can refer to a physical location as well as the physical people of Israel and Judah, so it can also refer to the people of spiritual Israel–true Christians.

We must understand God’s admonition to “Zion” to flee out of the “land of the north” mostly in this context. As we will point out below, God warns true Christians to separate themselves, spiritually, from the end-time Babylonian system, as He will destroy it in due time because of its sins.

3) Time Setting

As mentioned, Zechariah’s prophecy addresses our time. For example, we read in verse 11 that many nations will join God “in that day.” The phrase, “in that day,” refers ALWAYS to the time just prior to, or subsequent to Christ’s return. Another expression would be, “the day of the Lord.”

A similar description of the events just following Christ’s return and His rule in Zion [Jerusalem] can be found in Isaiah 2 (mentioned above). We read in Isaiah 2:2-4: “Now it shall come to pass in the latter days That… all nations shall flow to it [the Lord’s house, verse 1]. Many people shall come and say, ‘Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, And we shall walk in His paths.’ For out of Zion shall go forth the law, And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”

We also read, in Zechariah 2:6, that God has spread abroad Zion like “the FOUR WINDS OF HEAVEN.” This can be understood as a reference to the physical end-time descendants of the ancient houses of Israel and Judah who will be enslaved in many countries. Jeremiah 23:8 prophesies that Christ, when He returns, will free the remnants of Israel and Judah from their captivity:

“…’As the LORD lives who brought up and led the descendants of the house of Israel from the NORTH COUNTRY and from ALL THE COUNTRIES where I had driven them.” Compare also Jeremiah 3:18; 16:14.

These passages could also refer to Christ’s disciples–members of spiritual Israel–the Church of God. We read in Matthew 24:31 that Christ, at His return, “will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect FROM THE FOUR WINDS, from ONE END OF HEAVEN to the other.”

4) Flee from Babylon

We are told, in Zechariah 2:6-7, that the daughter of Zion is to flee and escape from the “land of the north”–the “daughter of Babylon.”

Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible explains that “The north country, although its capital and center was Babylon, was the whole Babylonian empire, called ‘the North’… because its invasions always came upon Israel from the north.”

End-time Israel will be conquered by the “king of the North” (Daniel 11:40-42). This king will be the last leader of the revived Holy Roman Empire. He is also referred to as the “beast” in the book of Revelation. He will be the military leader of modern Babylon.

Even though the end-time relevance of God’s admonition to flee from or escape out of the land of the north–i.e., modern Babylon–can be hardly overlooked, some commentaries try to apply this warning only to the Jews at the time of Zechariah. However, the New Testament repeats God’s warning, addressed to His people in the end time. Zechariah’s admonition to Zion to escape from the “land of the north” is foremost directed at spiritual Israel–the “Church of God.” So is the following warning in Revelation 18:4: “And I heard another voice from heaven saying, ‘Come out of her [Babylon, verse 2], my people, lest you share in her sins, and lest you receive of her plagues.”

Additional end-time warnings, pertaining to the same circumstances, can be found in Jeremiah 50:8 and Jeremiah 51:6, 45.

God does not want His people to dwell with the “DAUGHTER of Babylon”–the revived modern Babylonian system. The commentary of John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible states: “… it may be rendered, ‘[Zion] inhabits the daughter of Babylon’;… dwells in [her] cities, towns, and villages, belonging to it.”

5) Be Silent, for God Is Aroused

Zechariah 2:13 tells us to be silent–or to stand in awe and amazement–when Christ returns to this earth to take vengeance on the enemies of God (2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; Revelation 6:10).

The commentary of Jamieson, Fausset and Brown explains:

“[God] is raised up out of his holy habitation–that is, out of heaven… to judge and avenge His people… the call to all to ‘be silent’ is… when God has come forth from heaven where so long He has dwelt unseen, and is about to inflict vengeance on the foe, before taking up His dwelling in Zion and the temple… God is now ‘silent’ while the Gentile foe speaks arrogance against His people; but ‘our God shall come and no longer keep silence’; then in turn must all flesh ‘be silent’ before Him.”

In conclusion, Zechariah’s prophecy is directed at us today. It contains a warning to separate ourselves–in conduct and in mind–from this wicked world and its environment, which will reach its evil culmination in a future revival of the ancient Roman Empire. The Bible calls this last revival “Mystery, Babylon the Great, the mother of harlots and of the abominations of the earth” (Revelation 17:5). Christ will return soon to avenge His people and to spoil those who spoiled them (compare Zechariah 2:8-9). Until that time, God’s true servants must be sober and of a sound mind, resisting the temptation of wanting to belong to and befriend the people of this world–this Babylonian system–in order to follow their bad example. After all, this present evil age, with its lusts and passions, will pass away very soon.

Lead Writer: Norbert Link

Forgive and Forget

On Thursday, October 9, 2008, is the Day of Atonement. Dave Harris will give the sermon, titled, “Forgive and Forget.”

The services can be heard at www.cognetservices.org at 12:30 pm Pacific Time (which is 2:30 pm Central Time). Just click on Connect to Live Stream.

Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock

A new StandingWatch program was posted on StandingWatch, Google Video and YouTube. It is titled, “Why Federal Bailouts Won’t Help!” In the program, Norbert Link addresses the fact that we are in a “once-in-a century” financial crisis, rapidly approaching a depression, with no end in sight. The federal government keeps bailing out broken banks and insurance institutions, but it must borrow money to do so.  While our national debt is already in excess of 9 TRILLION Dollars, the newest bail-out plan may cost taxpayers another 1 Trillion Dollars. These man-made “solutions” will cost us dearly in the long run. What is being overlooked in all of these idle attempts to cure our financial problems? Why are we facing them in the first place?

We also posted a new German program on our Website, “Auf Posten Stehen,” and on You Tube.

Our newest booklet, “Is That in The Bible–The Mysteries of the Book of Revelation,” has been posted on our Website.

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