"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Philippines 4:8
In this article we’ll take a look at how God has the ability to see what no one else can. If you’ve ever asked someone if they’re living a life for God you may hear this phrase “God knows my heart”. And He sure does know our heart, He created us and knows every last detail concerning His creation. See previous postJesus Christ is God (Galatians Chapter 1)
If only God knows a persons heart, then what does the scriptures say concerning the Lord Jesus Christ; does Jesus have the ability to know our heart? That’s what we’re going to establish looking at the text of scripture.
The Psalmist David wrote that God tries our hearts, God knows our motives and with His divine eyes can see right into our hearts.
Psalm 7:9 Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins.
The Psalmist goes unto say in Psalm 26 “Examine me”, just like an x-ray the LORD knows the inner dwellings of your heart.
Psalm 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
The prophet Jeremiah proclaimed the LORD will judge righteously and will test or try the reins of our heart.
Jeremiah 11:20 But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause.
Again Jeremiah tells us the LORD searches the hearts of men but not only will He search our heart, He will also give us according to our ways. This means God knows if a person is wicked and not saved. If that person dies without salvation the LORD will give the individual what they deserve which is eternal judgement in the lake of fire.
Jeremiah 17:10 I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.
The LORD will try every man and woman there’s nothing that’s hidden from God He sees it all.
Jeremiah 20:12 But, O LORD of hosts, that triest the righteous, [and] seest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I opened my cause.
The last verse is from the apostle John here the context is speaking of Jesus Christ and the second coming of Christ. Jesus says “I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts:”. Wait hold on one minute, we read that only God can “search the reins and hearts” and now we see that the Lord Jesus can do the same.
Revelation 2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
We are forced to believe the only logical conclusion is that Jesus Christ is God. No one else besides God can see into the heart of man. There you have it Jesus Christ is God because He can do the same as the Father. And if you haven’t trusted Christ for salvation do so now. Because tomorrow is not guaranteed. One day Jesus Christ is going to search your heart and if you’re found outside of Christ then hell awaits. Therefore give your life to Jesus Christ today and you’ll be given eternal life.
Galatians 1:1 Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)
Paul the apostle starts his letter to the saints at Galatia saying he became an apostle not by being appointed by any man, but by Jesus Christ. This shows that the Lord Jesus Christ is not a mere man solidifying His deity. Paul doesn’t stop there as he places Jesus on the same level as God the Father saying “…by Jesus Christ, and God the Father…”.
Galatians 1:2-3 And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia: Grace [be] to you and peace from God the Father, and [from] our Lord Jesus Christ,
Paul gives his greeting to all the churches (plural) in Galatia, which then has the Gospel call saying “…Grace [be] to you and peace from God the Father, and [from] our Lord Jesus Christ”. The Gospel message is the free gift of salvation by God’s “grace” and through that wonderful gift we have “peace” with God.
Galatians 1:4 Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:
The Gospel message continues as Paul reminds us what the Lord Jesus did giving Himself for our sins on the cross “Who gave himself for our sins”, thereby delivering us or redeeming us by His own blood.
Galatians 1:5 To whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Our eternal gratitude and thanksgiving for the gift none of us deserve, we give Jesus Christ all the glory and praise for ever and ever.
Galatians 1:6-9 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any [man] preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
There is only one true gospel message, any other message which deviates from that which the apostles and Christ Himself preached is not a gospel message at all; but a perverse gospel message which cannot save. Paul then tells us that anyone one preaches a different gospel is cursed or damned.
Galatians 1:10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
Paul brings up an important question to the believers at Galatia, is Paul preaching to please man or God? If he’s trying to please man then he wouldn’t be a servant of Christ.
Galatians 1:11-12 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught [it], but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Another enormous statement by Paul he testifies that he didn’t receive the gospel by man neither was he taught by man, he received the gospel by Jesus Christ Himself. Paul then runs down his accomplishments in the Jews religion Judaism (Galatians 1:13-14). Paul was not bragging but he was just showing that if he were to boast he has much to boast of concerning who he once was among the Jewish rulers.
Galatians 1:15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called [me] by his grace,
We’re told by the apostle that it was by God’s grace Paul was born and called to be an apostle. This next verse is key, read it carefully.
Galatians 1:16 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:
Notice that Paul says “To reveal his Son in me” he’s speaking of Jesus Christ being in Paul. In other epistles we also are told the Holy Spirit resides in believers; here we have Paul saying Christ Jesus is in believers.
Paul then tells the believers about how he stayed with the apostle Peter when he went to Jerusalem and also met James the Lord’s brother. He also reminds them that he (Paul) once persecuted the church (Galatians 1:17-23).
Now the next verse can be used interchangeably with (v16) in proving the Lord Jesus Christ is God if the verses before these haven’t convinced you as of yet.
Galatians 1:24 And they glorified God in me.
An amazing verse! Paul is telling us that the believers praised the fact that God was in Paul notice “And they glorified God in me.” together with “To reveal his Son in me”. My friend if you want the truth about Jesus Christ here it is unless you’ve made up your mind and have convinced yourself that no amount of truth will change your mind.
There are faiths in the world which adhere to “keeping the Law”, exactly what does that mean? When asked the question do you keep the Law, the individual is asking do you keep the Law of Moses which was given at Mt. Sinai. You can find details to this in the book of Exodus chapter 20 in which God gives the children of Israel commandments to observe.
It’s worth mentioning that while most recognise this as “The Ten Commandments” in actuality there are 613 commandments God gave at Mt. Sinai, the Ten Commandments are a condensed version of all the 613 commandments.
An important question to ask is are Christians are required to keep the Law? To clear up any confusion in regards to the topic at hand, I will be straight forward in saying, New Testament Christians we are not required to “keep the Law” allow me to explain.
The Purpose Of The Law
Believers do not disregard the Law as “not important” the Law is important and serves its purposes. For instance the Law is Holy and good (Romans 7:12) it shows forth God’s moral character of perfection. The God we serve is a thrice Holy God (Isaiah 6:3). The first 5 commandments gives us clear understanding of who God is and our relationship to God Himself (Exodus 20:3-11). The remaining 5 addresses our relationship with our fellow man (Exodus 20:12-17).
Another purpose the Law serves is to show us our sin, like a mirror it reflects ourselves back at us. God commands us to never lie and we can all agree that we’ve all lied at some time in our lives. If we had to think about how many lies we’ve told during the course of our lives it would be too many to remember. We’re told that the Law was not made for the righteous but for ungodly sinners.
1 Timothy 1:9-10 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
The Law exposes sin and makes sin exceeding sinful (Romans 7:13) and death comes through the transgression of the Law. The book of Romans is great to read concerning how the Law applies to our transgression of the Law.
The final purpose the Law serves as a tutor or schoolmaster to bring us to Christ (Galatians 3:24). By seeing ourselves through the Law and the fact that we can’t keep it because none of us are perfect an alarm should go off in our head. Our conscience should be screaming “I’m in trouble with God!”, this would show you the need for a Saviour. The Law is there as a reminder to the children of Israel also to show them the need for a Christ.
Law vs Grace
Believer, take heed if you ever come across someone who tells you that you must keep the Law of Moses or any strict rule keeping for salvation know this is false. There are cults who teach you must believe and adhere to “keeping the Law”. Groups who teach these things either up front or subtly are Seventh Day Adventist, Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, Islam, Christadelphians, Black Hebrew Israelites etc.
They won’t admit it but they all depend on a works based salvation, it’s Jesus plus their good deeds. The Bible is clear that salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-10). These groups look to gain God’s favor by working for it and the Bible is clear that there’s nothing you can do to merit salvation (Isaiah 64:6).
Legalism
The term legalism is similar in that it’s still “works based” even though you may not be referring to “The Law of Moses” as a basis but the individual is still depending on themselves to do certain things in order to remain in right standing with God. This is also called strict rule keeping.
A group that comes to mind is a cult based in Australia (Exclusive Brethren), all men must wear white shirts with white buttons. Another rule they have is a member’s home must not share the same drainage or their home cannot touch and unbelievers house (adjoining walls).
The Seventh Day Adventist cult also falls into this “rule keeping” they have strict dietary rules such as vegetarian diets and keeping the Sabbath. Here’s a quote from the SDA website concerning proper health in the eyes of the Advent movement.
“Exercise and avoidance of harmful substances such as tobacco, alcohol and mind-altering substances lead to clear minds and wise choices. A well-balanced vegetarian diet that avoids the consumption of meat coupled with intake of legumes, whole grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, along with a source of vitamin B12, will promote vigorous health.” – SDA
Notice in the above statement “A well-balanced vegetarian diet that avoids the consumption of meat” Adventist are to avoid meat, this is a perfect picture legalism and any group you come across who do such things should be avoided.
Christ the End of the Law
The Lord Jesus said in the synoptic Gospels while giving the sermon on the mount in direct reference to the Law, He said: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” (Matthew 5:17). The Law condemns sin and is used to stop every mouth or person who would seek to exalt themselves; proclaiming a person guilty before God (Romans 3:19).
We see the importance of the Law that it’s Holy and good, it exposes sin and causes sinners to come to a knowledge of themselves that they would repent and trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. The Lord Jesus rescued us (believers), He lived a perfect life under the Law fulfilling all the requirements of God which you and I could never do; redeeming us that we may be adopted into the family of God (Galatians 4:4–5).
The Lord Jesus Christ is the believers ark in the same way Noah and his family were saved when they entered the ark by faith (Hebrews 11:7) before the world was flooded for its ungodliness (2 Peter 2:5). The Law should move you to fear that you also would take refuge in the ark which is Christ Jesus.
Believers Relationship To The Law
Therefore, anyone who’s saved in Christ is not condemned under the Law (Romans 8:1) through Christ we establish the Law (Romans 3:31) while not being affected by the Law. As Christ has “abolished in his flesh the enmity, [even] the law of commandments [contained] in ordinances;” (Ephesians 2:15). The unbeliever is not as fortunate because they are still condemned by the Law not being saved.
When a person comes to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ it’s never because of what they can do for God, it’s what God has done for you. Salvation is given freely by God’s grace to the one that does not work (Romans 4:4-5). If you really don’t understand how a person is saved without works/the Law my recommendation to you is to really study the book of Romans and Galatians.
Romans deals with how the Law condemns all sin making everyone guilty before God and in need of Jesus Christ, while Galatians teaches that we cannot mix our works with the saving grace of God. God does all the saving, that said in the post will be focusing on the Law of Christ in contradistinction to this post; Lord willing. God bless.
Last Wednesday as I went out to preach the Gospel in the open air a gentleman walking by stopped to listen to what was being said. After some time he asked a few questions, the questioned asked was “can a homosexual who eats pork be a Christian” ? As always I gave him a biblical answer saying “practising homosexuals cannot be Christian, and dietary laws only apply to Jews in the Old Testament; I’m a gentile” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Romans 1:26-27).
He then asked if a person should follow the 613 commandments given in the Law of Moses. It was at this time I realised what I was dealing with, I asked him “are you a Black Hebrew Israelite?”. After a little hesitation, he admitted to being a BHI. I truthfully told him he cannot have salvation by trying to keep the Law.
Black Hebrew Israelites History
The origins of the Black Hebrew Israelite movement began with Frank Cherry and William Saunders Crowdy, both men claimed they had revelations in which “God” revealed to them that African Americans are descendants of the Hebrews in the Christian Bible; Cherry also embraced anti-semitism, claimed that the earth is square, and predicted that Jesus would return in the year 2000. Cherry worked on ships and railroads in the South before running a religious congregation. He taught that God, Jesus, Adam, and Eve were Black.
Crowdy claimed to have had several visions in which he was told “that Blacks were descendants of the ten lost tribes of Israel.” He created the “Church of God and Saints of Christ” and is regarded as a founder of the Black Hebrew Israelite movement. Setting up congregations in Kansas in 1896. In these early days he was arrested 22 times. After setting up another congregation in Topeka, he spread his beliefs in Sedalia, Missouri, Chicago, and several cities in New York, establishing an Elder-in-Charge in each city before moving to the next. In 1903, he bought 40 acres of land in Suffolk, Virginia, calling it “Canaan Land”.
During the following decades, many more Black Hebrew congregations were established, with some holding no connection to Christianity. After World War I, another Black Hebrew congregation was set up in Harlem by Wentworth Arthur Matthew, called the “Commandment Keepers of the Living God.” Selecting elements of Judaism and adopting. In 1930 he moved the congregation to Brooklyn, where he later founded the Israelite Rabbinical Seminary, where Black Hebrew rabbis have been educated/ordained.
Black Hebrew Israelites Camps
While the “Black Hebrew Israelites” all believe similar teachings they can differ between camps. It’s my endeavor to touch upon each specific congregation and their beliefs in the future, Lord willing. For the purposes of this post we will be looking into the Israel United In Christ (IUIC) congregation. All “Black Hebrew Israelites” believe that the 12 tribes spoken of in the Bible refers to them, more specifically they do not believe that the Jews which are in Jerusalem are the true Jews.
Beliefs
IUIC and other congregations teach the tribes consist of “Afrocentric peoples”, when these groups hit the streets to preach what they believe you’ll see a chart which breaks down the “12 tribes of Israel” according to them, here’s how it’s listed.
JUDAH – Blacks/Negroes (American Blacks).
BENJAMIN – West Indians (Jamaica, and the West Indies).
According to them, the true Hebrews are people from the Caribbean, American Blacks and Native Americans. They believe this because they try to tie in the Transatlantic slave trade with the scattered Jews mentioned in the Bible, thereby proclaiming they’re persecuted and held captive in lands such as America. They view Jewish people located in Jerusalem as not authentic Israelites, yet some of those Jews can trace their lineage back, through historical documentation (scrolls) of the names of each male belonging to at least the tribes of Judah and Levi.
Make no mistake “Black Hebrew Israelites” are a cult (just like the Jehovah Witnesses, Christadelphians or Mormons) they use the Trans Atlantic slave trade as a way to lure unsuspecting people indoctrinating them through emotions. A majority of the members of IUIC and other BHI groups are disenchanted by how they are treated in terms of socio-economic factors, and understandably so. They feel betrayed by the communities they’re a part of and the challenges they face.
The Person of Jesus Christ
For the “Black Hebrew Israelite” skin colour is everything to them, their doctrines are soaked in racist beliefs, and because of this, they teach that Jesus Christ was a black man. If you’ve ever come across BHI you’ll notice the signs they carry one of them has a picture of a black man with white hair and beard. They get this teaching from two sets of scriptures, one from the book of Revelation and the other from the book of Daniel.
Revelation 1:13-15 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks [one] like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and [his] hairs [were] white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes [were] as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.
Daniel 10:5-6 Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed in linen, whose loins [were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz: His body also [was] like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a multitude.
It’s easy to see how someone who’s in the flesh would think these verses describe Jesus Christ as being “black”. We must keep in mind that the Messiah is a Jew, our Lord told us that “…salvation is of the Jews.” (John 4:22). The Lord Jesus was the seed of king David according to the flesh (Romans 1:3) and born of a Jewish virgin woman (Matthew 1:1-16, Luke 1:31). Therefore, we must deduce that Jesus was indeed a Jew.
As for His exact appearance being from Bethlehem, He could have somewhat brown coloured skin, but He’s certainly not a black man. Additionally, both sets of scriptures presented for Revelation 1:13-15 and Daniel 10:5-6 are visions of the glorified Christ after His earthly ministry. Shown in His divine glory, as Creator and King of kings and Lord of lords.
a. His head and hair were white like wool: The white hair speaks of old age, wisdom and timelessness. The phrase white as snow also emphasizes the idea of purity (Isaiah 1:18).
i. The white hair and head also connect Jesus with the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:9). The name of Ancient of Days belongs to God the Father, yet it also applies to Christ in that He is eternal and equal with the Father as to his Divine nature.
ii. This was not only a symbol but evidence of his glory.
b. His eyes like a flame of fire: Fire is often associated with judgment in the Scriptures (Matthew 5:22, 2 Peter 3:7). Jesus eyes could search into the hearts of man, penetrating judgment (Revelation 2:23).
c. His feet were like fine brass: The Lord Jesus took the judgment we all deserve upon Himself, these feet like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace speaks of refinement and purity. (Luke 12:50)
i. Brass is a metal connected with judgment and sacrifice. Israel’s altar of sacrifice was made of brass (Exodus 27:1-6), and it was called the “brazen altar.”
ii. Brass is also a strong metal, the strongest known in the ancient world. Therefore feet… like fine brass are His steadfastness, stability and permanence, He being able to endure all things
iii. Everything in this vision speaks of strength, majesty, authority and righteousness. None of this is about “race” as these groups are hung up on because they run off of hatred and racism.
Repentance
According to the IUIC website under “Learn The Truth/How Do I Repent” here’s what they say about “who” can repent “Repentance is for the Israelites first and foremost for blessings to come upon the Earth.” They then go on to cite different scriptures some of them having nothing to do with repentance, such as Revelation 7:1-4.
IUIC says in reference to the Revelation verse “This proves the angels are even holding back the final destruction until 144,000 Israelites are sealed with the understanding that they are Israelites and the keeping of God’s laws in Christ.” What the Black Hebrew Israelites fail to understand that 144,000 while yes they are Israelites they were chosen to preach the Gospel during the Great Tribulation.
They go as far as to place the nation of Israel on the same level as Christ Himself! Here’s what they say “Everything must begin with Christ and the Nation of Israel. In the end, the nations will be obedient to the Most High’s laws under Christ and the nation of Israel” Notice they include the nation of Israel on the same level as Jesus Christ.
To argue their views they cite Psalms 149:1-9, Isaiah 14:1-4, Isaiah 60:9-16, Revelation 21:24 but we must understand the context of these verses.
Psalms 149:1-9 There are two portions to this particular Psalm, the first half deals with the saints singing praise to God (vv. 1–6a) the second half speaks of the reign of the saints (vv. 6b–9). The time in question is when the Lord Jesus returns to earth and ushers in the millennial kingdom.
Isaiah 14:1-4 The LORD showing His mercy restores Israel to their own land. Gentile nations will assists in the return and live peacefully with God’s people. Israel’s former overlords will be her servants. Notice in that verse it says “The strangers shall be joined with them” God has always had in His plan for all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4) not only Jews. As for being “servants” we can’t forget that the Lord Jesus being our greatest example also came to serve during His earthly ministry (Matthew 20:28, Mark 10:45, John 13:1-7) and we’re told to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).
Isaiah 60:9-16 Reflects a time in which Israel’s people will return to the land in flocks bringing their wealth with them in ships. Foreigners will help as construction workers and kings as servants of God. Israel will no longer have to worry about persecution for they will no longer be hated but recognized as “The city of the Holy One”.
Revelation 21:24 Gentile nations will enjoy its beauty (New Jerusalem), and the kings of the earth will come with their tribute the Lord Himself. They will pay homage to the King Himself and that’s Jesus Christ not the “Black Hebrew Israelites”.
IUIC goes unto to say “Ultimately everyone will be obedient to the Laws of the Most High taught to them by the Israelites.” When they mention “Laws” they’re referring to the Old Testament Law. One thing all cults have in common is that they focus on trying to keep the Law.
God’s word is clear “no flesh will be justified” by the Law (Romans 3:20) that our works cannot justify us, “justification” only comes by “faith in Christ” alone (Galatians 2:16) because all our “righteousnesses are filthy rags” before a Holy God (Isaiah 64:6). God’s word even says what’s the purpose of the Law and that’s to bring the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20), that the Law is a “schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ” for justification (Galatians 3:24), that the Law brings death.
Romans 7:5-11 For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not [in] the oldness of the letter. What shall we say then? [Is] the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin [was] dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died. And the commandment, which [was ordained] to life, I found [to be] unto death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew [me].
The book of Hebrews says for those who are saved the commandment/Law is done away, cancelled or disannulled (Hebrews 7:18-19). The believer in Christ who has trusted in Him never needs to fear because there’s no condemnation for the believer in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
This statement here by the IUIC is really funny and I’ll tell you why. “The Most High is letting Israel know if they return back unto him, it must be done in sincerity and truth (by keeping His Laws in Christ), and not as a hypocrite. An example of these hypocrites are those who know the commandments of God but yet keep the traditions of men. Wherefore Brothers and Sisters it is imperative we repent and humble ourselves to the scriptures.” According to IUIC we must keep the Old Testament Laws which would place a person under a condemnation which is not funny at all. But what is that they say “it is imperative we repent and humble ourselves to the scriptures”.
If you’ve done any digging around or come across Black Hebrew Israelites you will quickly realise that they are anything but “humble“. They are quick to curse and humiliate people walking by on the streets, even making people kiss their boots if at all possible. This is definitely not how the man or woman of God should behave. This is another cult which uses emotionalism and racism in order to gain more members with those who sympathise.
Conclusion
How are we as believers to deal with cults such as these? The best way is to share the true Gospel found in the scriptures (John 3:15-18, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). They need to understand that Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6) and that salvation is a free gift freely given by God to the sinner (Ephesians 2:8-9). Whenever we share the pure unadulterated Gospel all the false gospel preached by this cult will vanish away because there’s only one Gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
As I continue to look into the inner workings and beliefs of this strange and unique cult I’ll write more on them, Lord willing. This was sort of an introductory as to what some of their beliefs are. In the meantime let us remember the words of our Lord on the cross when He said “it is finished” (John 19:30) nothing more needs to be done.
The LORD God Almighty made a proclamation that the children of Israel have forsaken Him and identified Himself as “the fountain of living waters”. This should ring a bell bringing your attention to a particular event which we’re taught in the Bible found in the New Testament. See previous post Jesus Christ is God Psalm 27:1, John 1:5
Jeremiah 2:13 For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, [and] hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.
In the New Testament, we have the account of the Samaritan woman. When the Lord Jesus sent His disciples into the village He spake with the woman at Jacob’s well. After asking the woman for a drink of water she said: “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?”. He told her that He will give her “living waters”. This is textual proof which shows the Lord Jesus is Almighty God because only God Almighty can give “living waters”.
John 4:10, 13-15 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. … Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
Now do not be mistaken, I’m not saying that Jesus Christ is God the Father, neither is He the Holy Spirit. But as you can see from the plain reading of the text the Lord Jesus can do the same as the Father. Jesus said again in the Gospel of John “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink”, once again this is proof of the deity of Christ.
John 7:37 In the last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
We then conclude with the book of Revelation the universal call to all which says “whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely”. Anyone who would like to have eternal life is told to come to Jesus Christ to drink of the water of life.
Revelation 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
It is our hope and prayer that you would take of this living water, the water of life which the Lord Jesus would freely give unto you if you would come to Him.
God is light and being a perfect God is Holy, He is the opposite of darkness; therefore, God would be light Himself. It’s plain to see all throughout the scriptures all good things comes from the Father of lights. See last post Jesus Christ is God John 17:3, 1 John 5:20
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
The Pentateuch
In the beginning of our Bibles, God (Elohim) spoke these words “let there be light” and there was (Genesis 1:3). At that moment darkness was divided from the light (Genesis 1:4) and we know that the LORD never has any part or affiliation with darkness.
When the Lord delivered the children of Israel from the bondage of Egypt, Israel was given light from the LORD, as He lead them through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21). God protected them from the Egyptian army which sought to destroy them. God kept the Egyptians separated from Israel as Moses would part the Red Sea (Exodus 14:20-23).
The Psalmist king David
As king David who was a man after God’s own heart spake by the Holy Ghost (Acts 1:16) could write about who the LORD is saying “The LORD [is] my light” again we’re confronted with this great truth that God is light. Through the light, our God leads us (Psalm 43:3) and directs our feet placing them on the right path (Psalm 119:105), He has shown us light (Psalm 118:27).
Psalm 27:1 The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
The Book of Proverbs
David’s son king Solomon also directed and guided by the Holy Spirit the wisest of all men told us in Proverbs that God’s holy Law is also light because it comes from God (Proverbs 6:23) anything which comes from God in its very nature would be light.
The Prophets
The prophet Isaiah cried unto the people of Israel as the LORD directed him saying “let us walk in the light of the LORD.” (Isaiah 2:5) Were also told that “a great light” which in reference to God would be shown to the people who walked in darkness (Isaiah 9:2). In Isaiah, we have a direct reference to the One who is called by God His servant and will come unto the Gentiles also know as the Messiah (Isaiah 42:6).
In the book of Daniel we have the account of the dreams which came to king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, the king making a decree that his dreams should be made known otherwise he would destroy all the wise men. Daniel hearing of this harsh decree sought the king asking for time to seek the LORD in prayer that He would make the interpretation known. Daniel was shown the interpretation by God and came to stand before king Nebuchadnezzar proclaiming these words about the LORD, “and the light dwelleth with him”.
Daniel 2:22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what [is] in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
In the book of Micah, he gave thanks unto the LORD for being his light saying “the LORD [shall be] a light unto me” (Micah 7:8). Another prophet by the name of Habakkuk prayed to the LORD and it says that God came, the Holy One and “And his brightness was as the light” the text goes on to say “he had horns coming out of his hand” or rays flashing from His hand which speaks of His glory.
The New Testament
We’ve seen just but a few verses which speak of God Himself as being referred to as “light”, as we continue past the last book of the Old Testament. The first reference of God as light is found in the Gospel according to Matthew which says:
Matthew 4:16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.
This verse in Matthew is pointing us back to the verse found in the old testament, the prophet Isaiah prophesied about a great light which would be shown unto the people who are in darkness. This is a direct statement concerning the coming Messiah and this was fulfilled by the Lord Jesus (Luke 1:79). Luke puts it this way that He (Jesus) was “A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” (Luke 2:32)
Immediately following that verse we have the Lord Jesus preaching to the people saying “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17). This brings us to another important event called the mount of transfiguration, the Lord chose Peter, James and John to accompany Him to the top of the mountain as the rest stood behind at the base (Mark 9:1-2, Luke 9:28-29).
When the Lord Jesus prayed the scriptures say He was transfigured and His countenance became “raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them” (Mark 9:3) or “his raiment was white and glistering” (Luke 9:29).
In the Gospel of John, the apostle says that in Jesus was life and that life was the “light” of men (John 1:4). Jesus Christ is the origin or source of light itself. John then compares Christ to the surrounding darkness of this world.
John 1:4-5 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
John the Baptist was the forerunner spoken of in the book of Isaiah who would proclaim to Israel the coming of the Messiah (Isaiah 40:3), John references this and mentions that John was a witness to “the Light”.
John 1:7-9 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all [men] through him might believe. He was not that Light, but [was sent] to bear witness of that Light. [That] was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
When Saul (Paul the apostle) was persecuting the church he was on the road to Damascus and was visited by the risen Lord, Luke the physician tells us that Saul saw “shined round about him a light from heaven” (Acts 9:3). Paul after his conversion gives his testimony of coming face to face with Christ Jesus and said to the chief captain and Hebrew people in the Hebrew tongue.
Acts 22:6, 9, 11 And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. … And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me. … And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
Paul gives his testimony again before king Agrippa saying how he saw a light from heaven on the road to Damascus. And that Christ was a light shown unto the people and Gentiles (Acts 26:23).
Acts 26:13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
In the epistle to the Corinthians Paul tells us that the light of the Gospel is which speaks of Christ Himself, the Lord Jesus is that light but satan is keeping people blinded to that light (2 Corinthians 4:4).
2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
In the epistle to the Ephesians, we’re told to awake and Jesus Christ will give us “light” (Ephesians 5:14). The book of 1 Timothy tells us that God the Father dwells in “light which no man can approach unto” (1 Timothy 6:16). The apostle Peter tells us that believers are called out of darkness “into his marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9).
John the apostle in his first epistle tells is this fact which is “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all”. How pure is the God that we serve, complete Holiness and purity.?!
1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
John goes on to say how believers are to walk in the light as the Lord Jesus is in the “light” that we may have fellowship with our Lord (1 John 1:7). He calls Jesus “the true light” (1 John 2:8).
The last book of the Bible, Revelation speaks of the Lamb of God who is the “light and glory of God” (Revelation 21:23), and that God is the one who gives this light.
Revelation 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
We hope that this was edifying to you and helps you in your studies in seeing that the Lord Jesus is God.
John 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
As a Christian, I recognise the name Jehovah as referencing God Almighty, but I also know that God goes by many names. I use the King James Bible and the name Jehovah is used 4 times throughout the Bible.
In addition, not all but some of the more modern versions use the name Jehovah as much as 6,827 times (American Standard Version), interestingly the Hebrew Names Version never uses it at all. Why all the discrepancies if Jehovah is truly God’s name?
Origin of the name
Do you know where the name “Jehovah” comes from, It comes from the Tetragrammaton. The name “Jehovah” is a modern mispronunciation of the Hebrew name, resulting from combining the consonants of the name, YHWH and Adonai meaning Lord.
The scribes when writing the scriptures didn’t want to include God’s name into the scrolls due to fear that God’s name would be mispronounced. Therefore they wrote the Hebrew consonants (YHWH).
In Hebrew the four letters, read from right to left, are “yodh”, “he”, “waw” and “he”. The name “Jehovah” is a construction made by man they took the 4 letters YHWH and the name Adonai and merged them together.
YHWH + Adonai
They removed “d”, “n”, “i” from Adonai which leaves “A o a” they then took this and inserted these letters in-between the letters YHWH when this is done you get YaHoWaH In Hebrew the “Y” when rendered into Greek has a “J” sound becoming “Jahovah” or Jehovah.
Picture one day you meet a man for the first time named Bill, some months pass by and you run into him again but you forget his name and call him Phil. Sure they sound similar but Bill would have to tell you that’s not his name. Even if you take the name “Bill” and remove the “B” adding a “J” making it Jill. That still wouldn’t be his name.
Our Creator is high above everything ever created including us, how dishonest would he be to think that we can take it upon ourselves to name God what we believe it should be outside of His Word. Jehovah is not God’s name not even close to it as we see how it was constructed using to names to make another.
