THREE OFFERINGS, THE TEMPLE

The temple, being an offering first (Exodus 35), has in its structure three levels of giving or offering.

These levels of giving are represented by the outer court, where life-substituted by an animal offering is given in exchange for Gods, our eternal life.

In the inner/holy place is the lamp. The burning oil is a deeper level of gift/offering. It is a secondary product, in our case, men representing the seed from which goodness is extracted by crushing self to death. It is spiritual offering of righteousness enabled by GOD. The reward is the light we become to the world, like the lamp.

The Holy of Holies is perfection, which we now have in Christ. It has the embodiment of all the gifts of God, in two Cherubim. These embody our gifts/sacrifices too, and are representative of the Angels/Princes of the covenant. It is the glory of God.

WHEN HEAVEN SPEAKS

When heaven speaks, it means that the siege around the spirit of man has eased, and the glory of man is increased.

The glory of man sings/rejoices, when it is from Gods shining countenance. It also testifies of God, that is why, the word of God and hearing increases in our spirit. This is a change in the spiritual climate, just as the wind blows and changes with seasons. Enjoy this glorious season, while we wait upon the Lords day of redemtion, when counsel for war shall accompany the glory. For now is peace and calm and joy and fellowship of the Spirit of God, even in the midst of a storm. All this is available to ALL belivers, for free.

THE PERFECT OFFERING

Every component of the temple of Moses was an offering first (Exodus 35.) This included what was in the holy of holies, specifically, the Ark which was made one with the Cherubim, and it's contents.

In the old, the offering was restricted to the High priest, the only persons whose appointment, pedigree garment and preparations met the high standards of this offering.

Israel's covenant was unable to avail this offering which to us was availed at the death of Christ, when He gave himself up as our high priest and tore the veil, the seal that withheld us. This perfect offering, represented by the ark, Cherubim and its contents - living bread, the law/righteousness and the anointing of priesthood/budded rod of Aaron, are not just offerings of men to GOD, but also His gift, His grace to men. The two are one and make the grory of God, also the Angel of the covenant ~ the perfect offering.

THE GLORIOUS NEW TEMPLE

Introducing, The Glorious, New Temple,

One most important purpose of this blog is to expound on the significance of the old testament to the new testament, the new covenant of Christ. This book is collective presentation of the same ideas (a follower of this blog may find it quite familiar.).

The glorious New Temple is an exposition of the Old Testaments temple and worship with relation to the new temple of worship. Also included are the replaced laws of worship, covenant and function by a new, more glorious temple.

ACCEPTED OFFERINGS

How do you know when your offering in the new temple is accepted?

When the Spirit of God from the inside of you takes over, and whatever you are doing - singing, praying, loving, patience, joy, righteousness... - all sacrifices of the new temple flow freely.

When its not your strength any more. For the offerings, avoid the hair raizing and soulish appeal that the flesh loves so much, but is a corruption of the gift with flesh. Learn this and you will know the spirits of men and differentiate them from the Spirit of God. All gifts should be given from an alter untouched by the tools of man.

REBELLION (AND JUDGEMENT) IN THE CITY [Kenya]

A vision of the night would present itself as something farfetched. This is one. 0n 6/12/06, there was a warning of destruction due to increased rape, murder, and the churches influence by the ways of the devil, doing what they ought not. It is a time of judgement, the clear voice sounded.

In a similar episode a year before I decreed judgement to the more southern parts, stretching from luhya western, diagnally south and eastern to Taita. I could see one mother with a child outside her hut grass thatch hut which my heart cried to to escape. I was told there was no recourse. On 26/7/10, Somalia is about to face a reprisal from Africa collectiuely. As this happened Somali women ran west into Kenya for refuge. Before the release of the principalities of the continent on 29.5.13, many times seen is Kenya in rebellion and sporadic war against principality the north, getting battered more [12/1/12), black Sudan[4.1.11), severally also war by principality
over Islam 9.3.12 from her East to 1/2 of the land. JUDGE!

SILENT HEAVENS; DO NOT PANIC

The heavens are silent for the sons of peace. Do not panic, and no lifting your sword till counsel for war comes. Refer to article on spiritual war.

 The lack of breakthrough is not your fault, but a season. For a time we have been in the formative stage of a new dispensation in the spiritual principalities of of the ages. I dont think it will be established like the preceding. Be still, relax, and wait on Gods time. He does whatsoever He wills, in His own time. For the sons of peace, the elect, the revelation of Christ be upon you, peace, joy, love, patience, joy, Godliness and hope. These I command not by my strength but in the name of Jesus, by the power of the cross. When the time of judgement comes, let every sword now set against the sons of peace be turned and multiplied against the powers of darkness.

OBSERVING THE PASSOVER NIGHT

The season/time of the passover is first exemplified in Exodus. At the time, God was to birth a nation out of Egypt. God then said;

"...take of (the sacrificed lamb's) blood, and strike it on the door posts of the houses...for I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn of Egypt...and against the gods of Egypt I will execute judgement..." Exodus 12:7,12.

On that fatefull night, would deal the last blow not only to the Kingdom/principality of a powerful Egypt, but also against her gods, the principalities and powers of the age that ruled over her in the heavens.

The function of the passover is that it is a typo of the spiritual. The ritual was reflective of a similar moment in the release of an elect/chosen nation from bondage under the powers of an age. Israel's destiny as a kingdom in Canaan was at the time a distant imagination. Jacob and His father had sojourned briefly in Canaan, before their offspring, now Israel found themselves Egyptian bound for four hundred years. Egypt was the only place they had known as home, as the time of release approached. This was despite the fact that her kinsmen Ishmael, Lot and Esau had become signifinant nations like Edom, Moab and Ammon. They were already settled in their portions beside Canaan. Canaan, Israel's promised heritage (Genesis 15:18-21) was a challenge, as it was then inhabited by great giants that made Israel prefer Egyptian bondage (Deutronomy 1:27).

The spiritual simile of the passover is the birth of a new age (Isaiah 66:7-9) out of the spiritual rulers of this age. As previously seen through many prophets, this period of darkness or woe for those on the receiving end of the sword precedes the birth of a new age. The prophesies of Christ concerning the end of this age were not different (Mathew 24:3-51,chapter 25). Daniel too juxtaposes a time of trouble to a time of deliverance(Daniel 12:1)

In the passover, there is greater depth to the understanding of the purpose of the hour of darkness. Spiritual lessons are drawn out of it.

1). In preparation, Israel managed to acquire the Egyptian heritage in form of jewellery of silver and gold.(Exodus 12:12). The same is promised through the prophets when the principalities of the earth shall besiege the elect, (Isaiah 60:9,13, Haggai 2:6,7). These precious things are for the rebuilding of a temple that is previously desolated, but after the experience, the glory of the later rebuilt temple shall be greater than that of the former(Haggai 2:9). This is a spiritual restoration promised.

2). All the firstborn of Egypt were killed, including the royal family(Exodus 12:12). In one night, the lineage of the throne was shifted to the second born. This is another principle of the heritage of the kingdom of God, as with Jacob and Esauh, Cain and Seth, Ishmael and Isaac, e.t.c. The first shall be the last, in the parable of the field workers.

3). Judgement was executed against the Gods of Egypt (12:12). The spiritual principalities in power of the age were overturned in this way. These are the gods of the sons of darkness that reigned over the land. These are also the spiritual principalities and rulers of the age we wrestle against (Ephesians 6:12). This victory of God's host over Egypt is spiritually significant, and would be demonstrated by a different relationship of God with the same principality henceforth. Her role in the end of the age and beyond is also significant.

When Pharaoh realized his power had been struck, he was in a hurry to let Israel go(Exodus 11:8, Exodus 12:33), even wisely requesting for a blessing from Moses (Exodus 12:32). The tables had turned over the land in the heavenly realm.

4).Israel remained protected/sealed from the sword of the passing Angel of God(Exodus 11:7). This seal, which we have in the spirit (Ephesians 1:13) was symbolized by the blood of the sacrificial lamb smeared on the doors of Israel, sealing them spiritually (Exodus 12:13).

5). The bread eaten with the sacrifice was unleavened(Exodus 12:8). The significance of leaven in the laws of Moses was expounded by Christ on severall occassions (Mathew 16:6-12). There were offerings of bread in the temple, which were not to be leavened (Leviticus 2:4). Then moulden dough was mixed with new dough to let te mould multiply, raising it for bread. The same yeast, is produced differently today for the same purpose. It was not approved as part of offerings to God just as pigs were not. The essence of the laws of sacrifice were pegged on rules of the highest standards of hygiene and health to symbolize righteousness and holiness. The partaking and protection of the seal of the passover is therefore for those sealed with the righteousness of God by His spirit.

6). The sacrifice was to be eaten with bitter herbs (Exodus 12:8). The time of the passover would not be all pleasant and none eventful for the elect. Even they would in a much smaller magnitude, have a bitter experience. Their counterparts though had to deal with the Angel of death, a sword even God said would result to a great cry (Exodus 11:6). The same is, concerning the prophesied day of the Lord. It shall be both good and bitter (Malachi 3:2).

7). Urgency/preparedness (Exodus 12:11). The sacrifice would be partaken with the elect in full dress up ready for a journey, even with staff on hand. The same readiness is required in our hour of darkness, as we wait for the day of the Lord. We need to be fully girded with the garments of holiness(Ephesians 6:11,) which is also our armour. It is also the spiritual sealing of God upon the believers (Ephesians 1:13), the oil that is needed by the wise virgins to keep their lamps burning (Mathew 25:1-12).

The hour of darkness is an hour when the elect are sealed, while God overturns and overhauls the principalities and powers of the present age. It is to be observed in righteousness. Be prepared, girded with the garment of righteousness, a seal that separates from darkness, as God's Angel runs to and fro in the darkness. This is the message of the passover. As Israel partook of the sacrifice of the passover, a covenant in its own right, they became one and acceptable with the offering before God. So should it be in our season of darkness, that we become a living sacrifice (Romans 12:9), holy(Psalms 29:2) and acceptable before God.

THE TIME AS PROPHESIED BY MALACHI

The prophet Malachi compares Esau with Jacob. These are the fathers of two nations, principalities born out of the same age, but only one which found favour with God. While the elder passed the chance, the young, for which God says "...I hated Esau, and laid His mountains and His heritage waste for the dragons of the wilderness..."(Malachi 1:4.) Translated to our time these are two principalities, one birthed into the promise yet blinded to it, while another whose eyes are open to the spiritual heritage of the call, works against all odds to earn it and succeeds. This story is like the parable of the man who was working a land wherein he found treasure hidden and burried. He went back to his home, sold everything he had and bought the field. This was Christs parable of the kingdom of God, that while many are offered the opportunity, only few find it valuable.

Within our age are, of similarity to the story of the two nations. The last shall be first and the first last, which is refered to as a distinction between the called and the chosen. This is because while the calling is to many, the chosing is to those who respond to the call (Mathew 20:16.)

The difference between the called and the chosen is the spiritual adornment (Mathew 23:14), or ability to bear fruit worthy of the call(Mathew 21:43), or have oil in your lamps/be a continuous living sacrifice (Mathew 25:1-12), otherwise put as making profit/acceptance of Gods gifts/grace (Mathew 25:30,) of which He said that to the one with much, more shall be added.

The Lord sometimes ascribed the difference between the two nations which shall not inherit together to a quality inherent inherent in the being of the two. One He likened to sheep, known for their blind following and subdued demeanor, as opposed to goats which are anything but calm, uncontrolable and hard of training. These are likened to two nations within the same age (Mathew 25:33,34.) The difference between the called and the chosen in the parable is that while the sheep do His works, their counterparts do not. In Mark 4:12, the difference is as a result of the presence or absence of an inherent ability to both hear and perceive, and to hear and understand, blamed on the intention to not have them converted, sins forgiven, hence the saying that to those that hear, more shall be given (4:24.) That predicament sounds contestable. The disadvantaged is the most vulnerable group when it comes to spiritual deception for this reason.

Christ continues to teach on the differences of these two nations of an age. One nation was of builders, who rejected Christ as part of their structure, and to those that accepted Him, He was a cornerstone (Mark 12:10.) This rejection was out of jealousy (Mark 15:2,) born out of competition for glory. To those whose structure this cornerstone was added was a permanent Kingdom born (Mark 15:2). This glory of the flesh is actually the veil that stands between the perception of God and men, also referred to a treasure which man layeth up for himself and is not rich toward God (Luke 12:21). Puffing up of the soul/flesh is corruption of the spirit. Seek first the Kingdom of God to find riches more valuable than these (Luke 12:32.)

It is no surprise that the prophet Malachi then proceeds to teach about the house/temple of God. He teaches of offerings, worship and laws. The same temple is a replica of that founded by Christ (Zechariah 6:13,) All the teachings of Christ were foreshadowed in the law, He being the very word, the law of God. There in the law was the spiritual things we now partake declared until they came to pass. The spiritual is more glorious, powerful that the regal mechanics of the laws of the old testament. So is the resultant spiritual heritage. This makes the difference between the two laws. The price of mechanical obedience in the old laws and covenant was a physical land, Israel. The price for the spiritual sanctification and offerings is life (John 3:16.) Also priesthood and Kingship in the Kingdom of God.

Prophet Malachi discerns the times of His prophesy, then and now. The time shall coincide with the assignment of a messenger (Malachi 3:1.) This should be an Angel (and a man or not.) John the baptist has fulfilled the first phase of this prophesy. Christ reiterated that indeed one He refered to as Elijah would come. This messenger is to prepare the way before the Lord (Malachi 3:1.) He shall be preparing for a time when the age shall go through refinery, a purification to become a perfect offering (Malachi 3:3). He shall come as a judge (3:5). When these nations are sanctified, God will rebuke their enemies (Malachi 3:11), restore their lost glory Malachi (3:12), and seal the restoration with a more generous gracing of the earth with the gift of knowledge and discernment between good and evil. This increased revelation completes the restoration of the peoples (Malachi 3:18). The prophet sticks to the now familiar theme: two peoples, a falling away,
vengeance and restoration of the heritage and of worship, the prophesy of the brief prophet Micah to our generation.

THE PROPHESY OF ZECHARIAH TO THIS GENERATION / AGE

Zechariah prophesies in the second phase of Israel's captivity. At the time, Israel was partially being restored. This time saw a lot of animosity too, from people who were not pleased at the new found status of Israel. Related to our age, we do live in a similar dispensation, especially in the spirit, the helm of it divided between two principalities.

Now our warfare shifted to the spirit world as it is written, we do not wrestle, as Israel under the leadership of Moses, against flesh and blood. The principality and glory of Babylon was split between two powers, Media and Persia. Cyrus the Median King decreed the first return to rebuild Jerusalem. In the same reign arose the Prophet Nehemiah, Ezra ,and Haggai who led the people of God to rebuild the desolate temple. Spiritually, the current atmosphere of the Kingdoms of this world is a replica of this prophesy's. Jerusalem, the city of peace in translation, is more than a city. It is the center of power for Israel, who earlier under Solomon and David had used it as the center of power  lorded over the surrounding
kingdoms.

Like Jerusalem, the "city of peace," is the principality of Christ. His Kingdom is a Kingdom of peace. Even Christ has His eyes on possession of the same. Remember though, that the principality of Christ is not of this world.

Romans 14:17 | Read whole chapter | See verse in context

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

 Spiritually, Jerusalem signifies a lot more. For this reason, when her King was born, so was a star in the heavens, which caught the attention of the Kings of the East, the first to pay homage to Christ, therefore referred to as "wise." Thus had a new King of Jerusalem had been born. But He said, "my kingdom is not of this world..." His Kingdom is of a different realm. Another principality of peace that Jerusalem represented. The Kingdom of God has increased in stature. Like yeast in dough, a mustered seed in fertile soil the Kingdom expands. It is hidden in the simplicity of the hearts of men. He said, the Kingdom (of God) is within us.

As an age draws near a turnaround, just as Israel drew to exile(remember the warning by Christ; "when you see Jerusalem surrounded, flee"), with the rise of an imposing power for purposes of correction (Zechariah 1:4-6) provision is set for them to last in the captivity for a set period of time as their land holds a Sabbath denied. As soon as the brief moment of captivity is fulfilled, an order to rebuild comes forth. The sword of the Babylonian heritage still reigned over the land and its people. This is our season.

Zechariah's prophesy introduces the angels of the season (Zechariah 1:8,10). The are the principles appointed to march the principalities of the powers of darkness that are also released for the specific time, the four kings (Zechariah 1:18, compare Daniel 7.) Their purpose is, as put, "to trouble the heathen,"(Zechariah 1:15, 21) and to facilitate the restoration of Jerusalem (Zechariah 1:16.)

Chapter 3 of the prophesy reveals the state of the tabernacle of God in the spirit. At the time of the prophesy, Joshua was the high priest of the temple of God. His garments need a bit of cleaning. Translate to spirituality, the prophet speaks to an age of darkness, when the state of the temple leaves little to be desired. The clothes of the high priests are filthy in his vision (Zechariah 3:3.) Historically, Israel is still in captivity, but with grace to rebuild the temple. This filthiness of the garments is a reference to iniquity, a product of accusations of the devil (Zechariah 3:1,) which accusations are disabled by the justification of God(Zechariah 3:1.) He gives an angel charge over him, a result of restoration and change of season. This justification and change of season shall be accomplished in the same manner in this age to, for the priesthood of God bound by accusations, for which reason we have an advocate in Christ, referred to as "the branch (Zechariah 3:8,9,) Christ shall come with power to justify.

This is how righteousness shall be able to reign in the millennial reign of Christ: justification and the binding of the accuser (Revelation 12:10.) Like the Revelation of John, the prophet Zechariah has left crucial parts of his prophesies unsealed, leaving a lot of room for comparison of the two. The similarities are uncanny and increase in the last chapters.

THE PROPHESY OF HAGGAI TO THIS GENERATION

The prophet Haggai, his work being prophetic of this time, is concerned with the rebuilding of the temple of worship. Remember that previous prophets had spoken of a defiling and subsequent desolation of the temple. We have refered severally to the draught in the land as a result when not a famine of food but of the word, of love, of joy, of peace visits the earth. We have also refered to the replacement of the sacrifices of God with an abomination, iniquity. After a season has passed after these occurrences, the temple must be rebuilt. This is the calling of the prophet Haggai.

The work of Haggai comes after both Israel to the North and Judah to the South had been taken captive. So were the treasures of the temple. A decree would later proceed from Cyrus the Median King, that paved way for the reconstruction of the City of Jerusalem. A portion of the children of Israel returned for this purpose. The rest remained in the land of captivity. So did Jerusalem, though the occupiers would be in their Godly heritage. As Haggai is sent to the returnees, they had rebuilt the city, and refurbished their own repossessed houses(Haggai 1:4.)

Being still subject to the Medo-Persian empire, Jerusalem did not know it was feasible for them to reconstruct the destroyed and desolate temple, and that God woul honour it on dedication to His worship. The prophet comes to tell Jerusalem, in our case the sons of peace, the sons of God fulfil this calling, important in the preparation of the people for a coming age when the Messiah is about to be revealed. At the coming of Christ, the reign of power had moved from Media/Persia, to Greeks, and to Romans. It is the Romans that oversaw the birth of the new age. This is significant for our time. We should not wait to feel good to do good.

We should start making preparations for the coming age by rebuilding the temple of God. Now we do not worship in a building with animal sacrifices. We worship in spirit and truth. We worship with righteousness, peace, joy in the Holy Spirit. We worship with love, patience, longsuffering, godliness, hope, faith. We should not wait for these to flow, being that the world holds us captive. Rather do good without getting weary, and we are rebuilding the temple that has been wasted. We are raising up the walls, moulding vessels and preparing for its priesthood, to offer sacrifices well pleasing to God.

I would liken this prophetic season of preparation to the calling of John the baptist, said to come in the spirit and power of Elijah. His ministry preceded Christ. His mantra was "...prepare the way, for the Kingdom of God is coming..." John was preparing for the new order that Christ introduced in simplicity: love the lord your God...love your neighbour as your self. This is the principle from which all the law and the prophets hang. Christ opened up the law, having been a foreshadowing of what was to come. Within the laws hid love, joy, justice, mercy, peace, patience, righteousness, godliness, truth, among other gifts offered out of the spirits of men as opposed to the flesh. This was the new order introduced by Christ. These are also the same areas under attack by the principalities, powers and rulers of this age(Ephesians 6:12). This is the simplicity behind which the power of God is hidden.

We are in a season of captivity as a generation, under the powers of this age. Like Israel, there is therefore not much glory to adorn the temple (Haggai 2:3.) God understands this too, but assures that in His sight, it is not an issue. He is about to shake the heavens, the earth and the sea (Haggai 2:6.) This is where the requisite glory for the completion of the house is coming from (remember how God spoiled Egypt for the treasures that adorned the first temple in the wilderness. He gave favour to Israel before Egypt that whatever they asked, of their precious things, they were given.) The prophet Haggai prepares the nation for this work of God. God says that the glory of the later temple shall superceed that of the former(solomons temple) (Haggai 2:7-9.) That it did. Also note the interesting way in which this promise of God was fulfilled. The same is true for our time too. While the temple may be desolate, it is time to rebuild, and to wait for God
to glorify it. He will when he spoils the gathered nations. The coming glory will be greater, the temple more glorious. This is the restoration of worship we have seen in many prophets, the restoration of peace, joy and perfect love upon the land. The restoration of His temple, a house we all are part of. Rebuild the desolate temple, Haggai says to our generation.

THE PROPHESY OF ZEPHANIAH TO OUR GENERATION

The prophesy of Zephaniah begins dramatically, with a threat of vengeance to man and beast. Even the fish in the sea is not excused from this sword (Zephaniah 1:3.) He punctuates this with a story of a banquet in the midst of the war "...The lord has prepared a sacrifice, He has bid His guests..."(Zephaniah 1:7,) which is comparable to the feast foreseen by the prophet John, called "the supper" (Revelation 19:17,18.) This seems to refer to a victory and spoiling (Zephaniah 1:13) against the enemies of the chosen nation.

The description of the meats served in the banquet is as drastic as that of the prophesy of John, the revelation, both being a foresight of the same events in different realms, times and settings. This is why these ancient prophesy of Zephaniah is important, the other prophets of God too. The word of God is not confined to a particular time, and this is an efficient way of judging prophesy. The word of God/ His prophesies transend ages/generations. This is why all prophets should not be ignored, so long as they are proven true. What God speaks to the nations in flesh, He speaks to powers and principalities in the spirit.

One thing notable about all prophesy, both ancient and recent is the urgency with which they are delivered to be performed. The day of vengeance was very near in prophet Zephaniah's generation, and even more so to our generation. The last supper is about to be served once again. Of course there is a call to repentance, or else the vengeance would not be justified. God in this prophesy pledges punishment against "the gods of this world..."(Zephaniah 2:1-11). Now the gods of this earth are the same powers principalities and rulers with which we wrestle, as opposed to flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12.) The weapons of war are also not carnal (not guns, bombs, chemical or neclear or any other man made weapon. Mostly because these are designed to harm men, not gods and spiritual powers.) The similitude of the overbearing lion and evening wolf is used, as animals are used to symbolize spiritual powers in other prophetic texts(compare Daniel 7). The polution of
the sanctuary is also a trait of this offending power (Zephaniah 3:4.)

In Zephaniah 3:8, The LORD reveals His purpose; the season of bediegement, war, pressure round about and animosity from many kingdoms is set them up for a great triumph. God through Zephaniah implores His people to wait. The counter offensive should wait, until the right time, when counsel for war is present. Several times in the days of the judges and kings of Israel, Israel confronted their enemies witout counsel from God and they were defeated before their enemies. This happened with Ai. On the other hand, war fought with counsel from God to go ahead were succesful, despite being out numbered, outsized and so forth. This is the secret of the counsel of God - it is power to war. What a word for this season, generation, and age.

When God triumphs over His enemies, worship in His temple shall be restored (Zephaniah 3:9.) So will peace (Zephaniah 3:13,) and Joy (Zephaniah 3:14,) all characteristic of the Kingdom of God.


(All references to the King James Version of the Bible)

THE PROPHESY OF HABAKKUK TO THIS GENERATION

Habakkuk is a prophet whose word stars with the distinction between good and evil. Habakkuk discerns the time concerned, also our times. He reflects on the failure of justice in the high places of the land. This wisdom brings sorrow. There is for the same reason, a prophesy of vengeance against them, or rather, the heathen. Habakkuk reiterates the prophesy of his predecessors, that a nation shall be lifted up, which principality shall be used to recompense the land for its evil works(Habakkuk 1:6.) These are called "the Chaldeans." The prophet employs a lot of similitudes to reveal the identity of the aggressive powers(Habakkuk 1:8-11.) Their identity is comparable to the powers seen by Daniel(chapter 7.) Among other similar references.

The invasive nation is ordained to carry out the judgement of God, the prophet Habakkuk teaches(Habakkuk 1:12.) This concept can also be deduced from the psalms of David, refered to as Kings(Psalms 2:2.) The prophet intercedes for the invaded nation. The spoiler will of course, be spoiled too according to his own sword(Habakkuk 2:8.) Also prophesied is a time of an overflow of the glory of God that shall follow thereafter(Habakkuk 2:14.)

The terrible king (the invasive nation) of the last day shall disregard even the gods of his fathers, and disregard the worship and offering given to God. He replaces the daily sacrifice with an abomination (which is basically the swapping of true spiritual worship-the required sacrifice, with iniquity-iniquity is an abomination. All these he does to capture glory for his own pride of self. Habakkuk calls this king an idolater-one who turns the works of the flesh into an object of worship. The prophet confronts and rebukes this power.

Chapter three of the prophets message continues in mourning, and discovers the hour of darkness from a different angle, that of God and His holy angels. He demonstrates the happenings in the heavens during this difficult time upon the principalities of the land. It reveals the hand of God in the season. The entire creation, he says, is facing Gods indignation.

The prophesy of Habakkuk draws to an end with an assurance of the provision of strength for those that still have their trust in God Habakkuk 3:17-19. He also refers to a famine in the days, similar to a famine referenced by other prophets (Joel 1:12). The prophesy of Habakkuk is, targeted to our time, a revelation of a transitional point in the ages, where a chosen generation is baptised in fire, in preparation for a more glorious future, our time too.



(References to the King James Version of the Bible)

THE PROPHESY OF MICAH

The prophesy of Micah singles out two rival cities, Samaria and Jerusalem. Micah addresses the entire Earth through these two cities(Micah 1;2,3). He prophesies of impending judgement even to the high places of the earth. This refers to principalities. Thus the prophet shifts his prophesy into spiritual high places as well. Most prophets associate mountains (which in the past made great placements for castles and forts) with the spiritual powers over certain places/nations. Most shrines were located in the high places too. This remains true for communities that openly practice idolatry in the current times.

According to the prophet, while Judah would seem to have been the law abiding child of Israel, especially after the transgression of the North, they had turned even the good temple into a god in itself (Micah 1:5). This is not a strange concept. It is a fact that the line between admiration and worship is very thin. Even a good thing can be misused. Judah did cross this line. This had the eventual effect that though they had all the trappings of the law and religion, they were not, in the spirit, any different from the North, which made an idol in defiance and called it their god. For this reason, both the kingdoms earn a rebuke, and a warning of an impending doom at the same breath(Micah 1:12, 3:12). The same is also a true comparison between the church and the world today.

Micah, in his prophesy, oscillates between the physical and the spiritual, casually referring to both at the same time. This is a seal that creates a challenge in the study of the book.

Like the rest, the prophesy of Micah deals with restoration after the impending destruction(Micah 4:1), specifically of the mountain of God. He also prophesies a coming reign of a supernatural peace that will follow after the restoration(Micah 4:3.) Micah 4:8-13 is a synonym of our current time. Therein is the long awaited Kingdom of God over the earth and the birth pangs preceding, the tribulation and bondage under the yoke of Babylon, from which deliverance is promised. Micah 8:11 prophesies of of the famed rising of many nations against the elect. He refers to their aim as to defile Zion. As is the end of the stories in other prophesies, the gathering of the nations in the end works to their disadvantage. This is unfortunate predicament is referred to as the prepared feast before the elect nation. Compare:

Revelation 19:17 

And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;

Chapter 5 of the prophesies continues with the picture of the hour of darkness. There is too a mystery of seven shepherds and eight principal men (Probably a reference to princes, as in angels of the status of the cherubim, Micah 5:5,6) who are raised specifically for the hour of darkness, this hour. Their purpose is to visit the sword upon the the offending nations. Chapter 6 of the prophesy is God reasoning with His people. It is not about the sacrifice of cattle, which the people did religiously. It is about justice, love, mercy and humility before God(Verse 8). All these are what all the law foreshadows. These are the true living sacrifices. These sacrifices we can now offer in our spirit, and are required.

As most prophets do, Micah ends with hope. The hope is the power/ability of God to forgive(Micah 7:18). The days of redemption from the powers of this age shall be like the days of the redemption of Israel from Egypt(Micah 7:15). For the same Egypt is a sign. The prophet Micah thus says to this generation.

(All references made are to the King James version of the Bible.)

THE PROPHESY OF JONAH

The prophesy of Jonah is important in our time. Christ, when asked to show a sign from God said of this generation, that the only sign we would see is the sign of Jonah(Mathew 16:4). The mission of Jonah to Nineveh is also the mission of Christ to our generation(Luke 11:30.)

Prophet Jonah is different from many prophets of the day in that his mission was to a gentile nation, Nineveh. Why did God expect repentance from them? They had not entered a covenant with God like Israel. This prophetic word teaches us that God reigns not just over the just, but the entire universe. It also represents the universality of Gods expectations of all men, the universality of His statutes.

Nineveh was an idolatrous nation. It exerted power over many nations, Israel included. Nineveh on other occassion is recepient of damning prophesies (Nahum 2:8, 3:7, Zephaniah 2:13.)

When God appears to Jonah, he sends Him to Nineveh "to cry against it," which is to declare the judgement of God against it. Jonah is not pleased, knowing how forgiving God can be to the repentant. In fact, Jonah makes alternative plans to avoid the mission altogether, so that Nineveh could finally get what they deserved(Jonah 1:3.) The insistence of God in making sure His message got to Nineveh is only testament to the prophetic significance of it. God not only moved the wind and the sea, but even the creatures in it to ensure the success of the mission.

Nineveh is a strong city in the spirit too. It has its roots in the great man Nimrod, a grandson of Cush, the son of Ham, the son of Noah(Genesis 10:8,9.) The beginning of the Kingdom of the Kingdom of Nimrod was on the land of Shinah(Genesis 10:10,) out of which land also Asshur arose. Asshur built Nineveh, amongst other Cities. Out of Shinah was also the great tower of babel, from whence the tribes of the earth were scattered (Genesis 11:2, 4:9). From these beginings also sprung the Assyrian Kingdom. Over all these reigns one powerful principality in the spirit, the heritage of Nimrod(Micah 5:6.) The land of canaan was alienated from the same, and given to Israel(Genesis 9:24,25.) Canaan was the land later possessed by the Amorites among other tribes (Genesis 10:15,16, 15:16,18-25.) By executing vengeance on the gods of Egypt and seizing the high places of Canaan, Isael was able to exert power over the rest of the principalities of the earth. This is
because of the importance of Zion as a high place of Jehovah. This remains so even in the spirit. This is the significance of the spiritual over the physical.

The great thing about the prophesy of Jonah is that Nineveh actually listened, beleived, and repented (Jonah 3:5.) God responded to this turnaround by repenting of the evil He would have otherwise visited on them(Jonah 3:10). Jonah is on the other hand not amused. God reacts to his attidude with a quetion "(you have pity on a plant for which you have not laboured, neither made it grow, which came up in the night and perished in the same night, should I not spare Nineveh, that great City where there are persons that cannot discern between their right and left hand; and so much cattle? (Jonah 4:10,11.)

Jonah revealed the loving personality of God. He is a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29.) Like in the days of Jonah, there is now in this age a nation that cannot discern between their right and left hand, being blinded by the gods of this world...lest they should repent and be saved(John 12:40, Romans 11:7, 2nd Corinthians 3:14, 4:14.) If now they hear the decree of judgement of God against them, and if they turned and repented, shall God not spare them?

Christ reiterated the message of Jonah in His parables. This is the message of the restoration of the prodigal son (Luke 15:1-32), a restoration also envisaged by Isaiah 65:25, where peace is restored between the wolf and the lamb, the lion is pacified and the serpent is harmless. These were previously destructive beast on the same land(Jeremiah 5:6, Daniel 7:4-6). As Christ takes over the reigns of power, the lives three out of four adversaries are prolonged (Daniel 4:11,12.) Revelation 1:7 implies a time of renewal and revelation even for the enemies of Christ, those "who pierced Him, and all the kindred of the earth..." This time comes as "...the power that deceived the nations..." Is bound for a season (Revelation 20:3.) This is the choice that our age now needs to make, to turn around in repentance, just like Nineveh, and be spared, just as Nineveh. I am confident of the success of this on the current age, being an age bought by the blood of Jesus,
and concerning which Christ said is a chosen generation. This is the generation promised a spiritual heritage of all principalities of the earth, Christ having said that all He was given, He lost none.

THE PROPHESY OF OBADIAH REVEALED

Obadiah prophesies to the Nation of Edom. Edom as a nation is the progeny of Esau, Jacobs elder brother. Edom, is Esau had the birthright of the inheritance of Canaan, which Jacob took. It is written that Esau despised his birthright, having sold it for a bowl of lentil soup. This would be likened to the parable of the prodical son, who did not appreciate His status and riches while with the father, opting to fulfil his fleshly lusts at the expense of His heritage (Luke 15). God would later express His hatred for Esaus choice(Malachi 1:2). The prophesy of Obadiah addresses in spirit a nation other than the elect, who though enjoying a certain level of favour with God, fail to appreciate their predicament and end up loosing their Heritage, like Edom would to Israel(Obadiah 1:18-21).

The mistakes of esau are replayed by His herited nation, Edom. Because of the covenant of brotherhood that existed by birth between Esau and Jacob, by extension Edom and Israel, God treated Edom with favour. As Israel proceeded against nations as they transitioned into their promise, God commanded Israel not to touch Edom(Deutronomy 2:4-6,22). The same was commanded of Lot, Abrahams nephew and companion in the call(Deutronomy 2:9 concerning Moab and Deutronomy 2:19 concerning Ammon. For being partakers with the journey of their companions, Lot and Esau had obtained favour with God, albeit on a different level with the carriers of the covenant promise.)

Edoms mistake was His forgetfulness of the shared experience and favour with his brother. Edom would not be reciprocal to the favour with which Israel treated her. Edom connived with the enemies of Israel at their time of desolation (Obadiah 1:10-14). This is not well pleasing before God. For this they lose their favour, and heritage with God, and their land is converted into additional inheritance for Jacob (Obadiah 1:8-21).

The relevance of the prophesy of Obadiah to this age is great. When Christ was born, and this age with Him, so were two nations within one dispensation. One of these principalities is a fruitful nation, bringing forth the fruit of repentance, one is not(Mat 21:38). Just as it was with Esau and Jacob, one of these two nations are possessed of the birthright of inheritance by being the first born, the other nation is a nation inferior, poor in spirit, a nation of servants. The stewards then become unfaithful keepers of a heritage entrusted to them as the master tarries in a far away land(Luke 20:1-16). The master of the heritage has a hard time getting any harvest out of them.

The principle of two nations within one calling is repeated throughout the scripture. This was a foreshadow of the current age, and of the age to come. There was Cain and Abel/Seth displaying the literaly antagonist versus protagonist. Shem(through Israel) and Ham(through Canaan) would later replay this. The covenant of brotherhood is involved in these two, Edom and Israel.

The foreshadow of the principle of the two nations within one calling is revealed in the new testament with the phrase, "many are called, few are chosen". This phrase ends the parable of the sower, conserning hearers versus hearers and doers of the word of God (Mark 4:12,24, Mark 22:22). The parable of the ten virgins is a good example of this(Mat 25:1-12). All ten virgins hear the call, and prepare for the wedding. In the company of the wise, the foolish virgins walked, until the midnight hour struck, and their lamps burnt the last drop of oil. In this hour of darkness, many lamps will burn out. The bride groom tarries.

The typo of the two nations tended side by side is continued in the parable of the wheat and tares (Mathew 13:24,25,38,39). There is a separation and distinction that comes at the end of the age.

The end of the prophesy of Obadiah is with tragedy. The heritage of Edom is converted by Israel (Obadiah 1:18, 19), to go with the phrase, to whoever has, more shall be added while to the one who does not have, even that which he has got shall be taken away (Mathew 13:12).

THE PROPHESY OF AMOS

Amos takes a novel approach in his expression of the prophesies of what he sees at a furure time. All the cities of Israel, in his prophesies, take a prophetic personality in his expression. These cities represent the spiritual high places that governed Israel at the time, them a scaled reflection of the principalities of the current age. This their importance in similitude to our current times. This is because at Christs triumph against the powers and rulers of our current age, He took power over the principalities of the entire age that followed, the Kingdom of Israel having been a prophetic significance of this, and of the age to come.

In the prophesy of Amos, surrounding nations are also addressed. These include Edom, Tyre, Syria, Eden and Moab.

As far as the principalities of the this world are concerned, Israel as a principality and its relationship with other powers that she interacted with can be used as a study of our current times. During the times of the torah/Law, God was writting down the future of the earth. This is not only the future of physical territories but of corresponding spiritual territories as well.

Our age was drawn out of a preceding principality by Christ through the power of His sacrifice and a new covenant. It was the function of the messenger(John the baptist) to launch this spiritual war in the heavenlies, a war that Christ finished by His descent into death, and triumph over the powers of the age. Likewise, Israel had just about two millenia before been drawn our of a powerful principality, Egypt. Just as the drawing out of Egypt was followed by laws of worship, so is the covenant of Christ, in which the law is written in our hearts by the power of the Spirit of God, and a new form of worship is introduced, worship in spirit and in truth. An inheritance of Canaan was the promise given to Israel, while at the beginning of the current age was a promise of inheritance of a kingdom - the Kingdom of God.

Through Amos speaks to our current Age, as much as He does to Israel. This is a kingdom that has erred, despised the law of God(Amos 2:4) a land full of injustice in the highplaces through its judges(Amos 2:7,8), the judges being the powers of the age, also its corrupt prophets(Amos 2:11,12). Due to all these and other shortfallings, it is time to put things back to order. All ages start with a new order and rule in the heavenly places of the land. In the time of the prophet, God initiated this end of times by raising an overpowering King, an adversary against the prevailing powers of the time(Amos 3:11).

One significant aspect of the end of the times and transition into a new age was a period of desolation, when God rejects the sacrifices / the worship of the land(Amos 5:22,23). Compare with Isaiah 43:28. The reason for this rejection is given(Amos 5:26). Idolatry mixed up with His worship. He does not share glory with the gods of this world.

The prophesy of Amos also contains vivid descriptions of the sins and of the kingdom and her people. This is in a shadow, a demonstration of the expectations of God out of His elect, and this age is in its entirety, a select age as an inheritance of Christ. An inheritance He will collect. The rigours of the law were a sketch of a more perfect dispensation, one of obedience by the power of God, and perfection by the righteousness of God.

The prophesy of Amos concludes with hope(Amos 9:8,9).Restoration and comfort shall follow the end of the times, even now in this age.

THE PROPHESY OF JOEL

Joel prophesies to a nation in the midst of a storm, or a famine(Joel 1:4-5). This becomes the predicament of the land after another arises against them(Joel 1:6 describes the invading principality in more spiritual terms.) Joel takes a more spiritual perspective of what he sees in the future.

The prophesy of Joel is significant for this day. It pictures a time when the offering of Gods people is cut off from the house of God(Joel 1:9). Compare with Daniel 9:25. Joy is withered away from the sons of men (Joel 1:12) and the day of vengeance is at hand(verse 15). This refers to God's vengeance against the invading principality

Chapter two continues Joel's prophesy with further information on the nation executing the vengeance of God, refered as the execution of the word of God(Joel 2:11). These are also refered to as the heathen(Joel 2:17). The same are further refered to as the Northern army(Joel 2:20).

After a while of destruction, God turns again to His people to restore them(Joel 2:23,3:18). So shall it be for this age.

Chapter 3 of Joels prophesy concludes with a time of vengeance against the nations that held the prophetic land and its temple captive. These are nations that had ruled over Gods people in the day of the Lords vengeance. While God had just used them to execute vengeance, they too have to face the same judge and according to their dealings are they dealt with. This is the next phase in the earths dispensation.

THE PROPHESY OF HOSEA

Hosea is a book addressed to Israel as a whole, as divided between Judah in the south and what came to be refered as Israel in the North. In reference to the North, the Lord addresses a specific tribe, Ephraim. This is significant because Ephraim as a recognised tribe arose a generation after the twelve sons of Jacob who grew to become the tribes of Israel. With his brother Mannasseh, the other son of Joseph, Ephraim received a portion on the land of Canaan as a tribe in its own right.

Prophetically, Ephraim represents a generation that arises just when we think that the lot of the heritage of the house of God in its twelve principalities is already cast, divided and settled. His arrival though moves the heart of the father who draws him in and apportions him a heritage amomgst His sons. This is spiritually in reference to a specific nation, a principality born out of the land of bondage, and that finds favour before God.

The nation, though of a different seed than that of the sons of the promise gets a portion in the covenant and its heritage. The relationship between them and God is full of hurdles though, a lot of backsliding and falling to strange worship and deception. It was by Ephraim, the prophesy claims, that the image of jealousy was built to restrain Israel from going to Jerusalem. This idol, represented as the God who drew Israel out of Egypt led many into sin.

This nation of Ephraim in prophesy is alike in many ways to just preceded principalities of the earth. Easily deceived and hard of hearing the nation has fallen into deception and into a season of destruction by an estranged principality. The story of Ephraim is prophetic of the story of our age, which draws to a close in the hands of an invader. All these though is not without hope, as the Lord swore salvation (Hosea 13:12-14). The same is the hope of our generation. The prophey is about a generation being baptized in fire, to sanctify it for a coming age of righteousness and glorious prosperity(chapter 14). This is our word too.

THE GRACE OF GOD IN A STORM

Grace is a word used to refer to a supernatural gift, earlier even used to describe pagan gods/demons called graces of the particular powers they were believed to hold, like fertility, harvest, e.t.c. Grace is not a separate entity from its source. When we therefore refer to grace from a Christian perspective we refer to God in His totality, His fulness. The fulness of God is His Son, His Spirit, the unending gifts and fruits that come out of all these and even Gods ministering spirits, the angels he has sent to the earth to minister to His people. All these make the grace of God and it is incomprehensible to men.

By gracing us with His son, God reconciles us to Himself by making us part of the body of His son. This union translates us in the spiritual realm into the Kingdom of His son, also forming a shield over us, hiding us from the reach of wicked powers to a certain extent. The next important grace we receive from God is that of His Spirit. The Spirit of God in us is a seal that declares our inheritance of the things of God. This is granted access to the richness of God, His graces. It is for this reason that Christ promised "when the spirit of God comes upon you, you shall receive power..." The Spirit of God is God in spirit form. You know someone with the Spirit of by looking out for God in Him/Her. Demons do babble a lot of vanity on the premise of speaking in tongues so this should not be the only test of a person baptized in the Spirit of God.

By dwelling in us, God is able to transform us, by association, an ever present desire, into His likeness. The more this likeness grows, the higher the level of Gods glory is. It never stops, because God is unsearchable, and His grace, greater than we know. This transforming power is also the grace of God.

A note on character/ Bahavioural change. God is working on our Character, and for us to be the change, we need to coperate with behavioural change. The character of God is more than just behaviour. Anything coming out of God, as Godly character does, is power against the powers of the Gods of this world. This is why the devil prefers to have Christians with no Gods character in them. Should you go through my reports of recent developements in the spiritual principalities of the world, you would understand why this is happening at this time with such intensity and power to influence.

The grace of God is not forceful. Do not expect God to force patience out of you, or joy, love, peace. You have to be a willing participant. This willing participation is all that the walk of faith requires, and it is also the greatest threat to the powers of darkness. This is the Kingdom of God: Righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. This is all the church needs for the takeover of the Kingdoms of this world. It is the secret place of all the power of God. The power of God is in His character.

Like it poured down in the time of Noah is a storms in our times, this time, in the spiritual high places. It is time to hide in the ark, then a boat fashioned to give protection to all who would believe, the Lord has become our Ark through faith. It is in this ark that we need to stay untill the stormy season has passed. Keep yourself in the quiet presence of God. This is the presence of God: righteousness, peace joy in the HolyGhost. Right now, these are scarce virtues, so hold on to what you have. Avoid the storm by staying in the presence of God. One sure way of remaining in this protective grace is by maintaining a Godly character. Avoid contentions, which are a threat to your peace. Avoid taking offence and losing your joy. Allow the works of righteousness to flow out of you even when it is not convenient. All these shield against the powers of darkness in a season of storm. Hide away any buttons that can be pushed and be ware of doctrines that
lure you out of the protective hedge.

Incase you were caught offguard already and you are swimming in the storm, remember God is your shield. Get back into the hedge of protection by submission to God and waiting for His counsel. Never go to war without power. The power is only in the counsel of God, not men and sometimes their misleading hype. This may take time, or it may be almost immediate, depending on the individual. Get rid of all fear and anxiety and if prayer seems unanswered, cry out to God. Love all men too. Including your enemies.

TALK TO GOD

Talking to God is one of the rarerest things we do as Christians. Sometimes our prayers are not directed to God as a communicator would to another in a conversation. It is possible for prayers directed to God to be a mere recital with no intention of engaging in a back and forth communication, even if one side(most likely God) remains silent.

The reason for this lack of communication with God even when we are praying is mostly for lack of confidence. Most times, people do not feel they are good enough to hold a conversation or a talk with God. In such cases, prayers become technical and distant. This feeling of inadequacy is also, surprisingly, increased by a lack of communication in the relationship with God. The guilt is not warranted. God is spirit, and when we rever Him too, sometimes fear of saying the wrong things keeps this distance a reality.

Start talking to God as you would to a friend. The problem is not usually faith but fear. Do not worry about speaking in a certain bible language. God is your friend. Next time you have a burning conversation you are dying to spill out, tell it to God. It does not have to be out loud. He can listen to thought and that is the best place to start talking to God from. At first, the talks may feel awkward and one sided but after a while, it becomes easier on you.

There are times we have questions that we are sure no one would answer, or that we would like God to answer Himself. Put the quetion to Him, and move on. After a while, or immediately, He will answer through another person or through your understanding. Understanding is the commonest communication tool of God, and also easy to ignore. Sometimes God teaches by taking you through an experience that will put the lesson in you. These may not be necessarily good experiences.

Sometimes prayers can be in form of a conversation, a talk. These are important especially in seasons of war when prayers seem to hit the ceiling. While these talks, may be far apart in these seasons, it is a form of communication that remains throughout all seasons. So when you can't pray, talk. Make a friendly conversation. Again, it does not have to be out loud, making it possible to carry out conversation with God from any place, noisy or not, whether its a place considered unGodly or not. Go ahead and talk to God, your friend.

WHY CHRIST?

What is the importance of Christ in Christianity? Christs importance can be understood from the study of the powerful laws of covenant making. This is because the entry of Christ into the culture of worhip came on the inception of a covenant, the new covenant, other wise called the new testament.

Before His coming to earth, men worshiped God in a different way. All the peoples of the earth had discovered that the language of God was sacrifice. There was no close relational dealings with God in terms of conversation and or prayer as freely as we have today in Christianity. God was then a mystery, feared so much that even shrines were restricted in visits and behaviour. In Israel, whose God is also the God of the Cristians, there was a section of the holy temple completely shut away from the worshipers. Only once a year did one elected person enter this place called holy of holies, where the presence of God dwelt. The inception of Christ into belief in God
completely changed the way we worship. The secret is in the new covenant.

The first covenant of worship between God and men came with Israel. God taught them the secrets of reaching Him through lagalistic means, also refered to as the Torah. Through a system of dos and donts, Israel learnt how to offer sacrifices that would actually be acceptable. This reminds me of sacrificial ceremonies in Africa where blood is usually mixed with the dung of the animal and then poured out as as a sacrifice. Now this would not suffice for the God of Israel, our God. First the sacrificial animal would be without blemish, blood would be drained out of it, not to be offered, and certainly dung would not be offered. God was teaching His people that He would not take any form of corruption from them. This was how the lack of corruption would be expressed, by synonyms of the law. The law is ia system of similitudes that seek to teach us of the nature of God and how to relate to Him.

The coming of Christ was with a change of how we relate to God.He introduced the idea of worship in spirit and in truth, and he challenged the most rigorous of the law keepers about their Godliness. He was surely poised to become a stumbling block to many in a nation whose God had dramatically introduced to the law in the wilderness. What in fact was happening is that the age was turning over and a new age, new laws(more spiritual) were coming into force fast. Life changes, and periodically, a new system arises and takes firm roots, impacting an entire age. The new system was Cristianity, sinking deep its teeth into the systems of the world, and the most notable difference with this new system would the the power with which it took over. The blind were seeing, crippled walked, and lepers got cleanced. The bound were getting set free, spiritually in the name of Jesus. The spiritual structures of power over the earth had turned over and the new King was
walking among the people in flesh. Power had shifted in the heavens, a major shift that ushered in a new dispensation. I call this a dispensation of Chrit for the reason that, though the principalities of the earth remain till its end, they are subjected to Christ. It is for this reason that we pray "in the name of Jesus". It is an acknowledgement and use of the power of the King that sits above all principality, right next to His Father. The name of this prince of Kings is Jesus Christ. His rule is over all other kings(many they are), and gods and powers. This is the power we have in Christ. Power to be translated from this darkness that sits over the world to light. And He is the light of the world. This is why Christ is indispensable.

SEALS AND VEILS: HIDING MESSAGES IN SCRIPTURE

This is an article specific on scriptural seals and veils used to hide things that are not yet as at the time of the revelation, to have them preserved better for the concerned generations and relevant time. It was common practice in the old testament to present mysteries of God in seals due to the nature of the covenant.

 Isaiah 8:16   Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.

 Isaiah 29:11   And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed:

 Daniel 9:24   Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.

 The covenant was designed to be a practice in prophetic actions declaring of another more superior covenant and promise. The Spirit of God was not yet poured on earth therefore understanding was only of laws. These laws were not just living instructions. They hid a more deep spiritual aspect concerning the relationship of men and God. They were seals and veiled our current covenant. These veils were also spiritually signified by the veils of the temple of worship, restricting the revelation hat the people could attain through the old covenant.  This changed at Christs death. It was His first victory in hades.

 Matthew 27:51   And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;

 I believe it is time to unveil such mysteries and to break any such seals, seeing we are fast approaching an age that is going to be full of Gods revelation, with no need of teachers. This means that the mysteries of God should be in the process of unveiling right now, as we approach the new dispensation.

Scriptural and prophetic seals ranged from writer to writer and from time to time. These were indeed actual veils put on the word as a testimony of the inability of the law to deliver a deeper relationship with God. We now have a better covenant, and together with the tearing of the seal which was the veil hiding away the most holy place, we inherit power to search into deeper spiritual things concerning the glory of God. Here follows more common seals of the prophets, and scripture as noted down in mysteries;

1.Order of events. By mixing up order to avoid a clear chronological flow of prophesies for example, a veil would be formed in that the clear intentions of the scripture would cause a confusion. This also happens with words of wisdom concerning how spiritual things work. This is the case of many prophetic utterances. Our heritage is now more spiritual than before thus the unveiling of such mysteries. Order is mixed up in Daniel chapter 11, or Revelations among other books, especially when the writers are prophesying a future event. Christ did the same when asked of what should be in the end.

2.Repetition. Read Daniel chapter 11 and you will wonder " is this the same king or is it another". Repeatition is another sure way of throwing people off the tracks. This seal tires off the mind and you cannot wait to end the reading. It is also the commonest used by all the prophets in the bible, including the revelation. You think you are onto a thread before you discover that you are backtracking, branching off to a completly different part of the story, or down the same road you thought you had passed. This seals and veils scripture for many and usually results to a resignation of the mind from the particular scripture.

3.Backtracking. The seal could be attained by backtracking an already stated prophesy and you think; is this another occurrence? The order of events could also be repeated in a backward chronology. This is a form of poetry. 

4.Distractions used to seal prophesy and other scripture come in the form of a different event being described at the same time. You then lose sight of the other or fail to make sense of the entire presentation. This seals off the actual story from the hearer. It is a common veil for most prophets. 

5.Its so overt, its covert. Sometimes the best seal is to lay the truth so casualy bare. The irony is that men will seek an interpretation or a deeper meening. This happens a lot with the scriptures that deal with the relationship of men with God, with facts about the principalities of the earth, the annointing and personality of God, among others. These are mostly seals to non believers due to the lack of the Spirit of Revelation that dwells in all Christians. These kinds of scriptures have therefore resulted in separations and conflicts and denominations. 

6.Current circumstances used as a seal of an expected occurence in the future. Take for example the deliverance of Israel out of Egypt. This declared in a veil translation from the kingdom of darkness to light in the new covenant of Christ. It also declares the birth of the coming age of righteousness from the current one. The same scriptural seal is used with other nations to declare the plans of God for those that rise after them, and most importantly, to spiritual principalities attached to them. 

6.Repetitive cycles of such fulfillments also seal scriptures from understanding, especially for future generations that will look at them as expired. This is exactly the intention of the veil. 

7.Similitudes and parables to seal prophesy and scripture. This is the use of fiction depicting similar circumstances or similies to hide the real facts. This is for example the use of already passed or wasted nations to speak to future ones, the character of most old testament prophets, or the many parables used by Christ. Many of those speak about the end of the current age, and expectations of its glory.   

Hosea 12:10   I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets. 

Ezekiel 20:49   Then said I, Ah Lord GOD! they say of me, Doth he not speak parables?

 8.Spiritual blindness This is blindness caused by God through the gods of this world.

 John 12:40   He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.

  Romans 11:7   What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded

  2 Corinthians 3:14   But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which veil is done away in Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:4   In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

 

You have to have an interest to be able to decipher some of these seals that veil the word. Knowledge of scripture increases the ability to break through hidden and veiled things as it increases understanding of the works of God. Wisdom only comes from God so remember to ask for it as many times as you desire.