

### The Dream

Through the Eyes of Sowing and Reaping

### By Jack Marshall

The Dream

Through the Eyes of Sowing and Reaping

Jack Marshall

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2015 Jack Marshall

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This free ebook may be copied, distributed, reposted, reprinted and shared, provided it

appears in its entirety without alteration, and the reader is not charged to access it.

This study would not have been possible without the many discussions I've had with my closest friends – Steve, Mark, Jackie, and my precious soulmate, Sandi. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter One: Numbers and Parables

Chapter Two: The Dream

Chapter Three: The Husband

Chapter Four: The Wife

Chapter Five: The Firstborn Child

Chapter Six: The Natural Man

Chapter Seven: The City

Chapter Eight: Death

Chapter Nine: The Feet of Iron and Clay

Chapter Ten: The Law of God

Chapter Eleven: The Law of Sin and Death

Chapter Twelve: The Serpent

Chapter Thirteen: The Mark of the Beast

Chapter Fourteen: Coals of Fire

Chapter Fifteen: The Two Covenants

Chapter Sixteen: The Parable of the Sower

Chapter Seventeen: The Parable of the Marriage Feast

Chapter Eighteen: Called, Chosen, and Faithful

Chapter Nineteen: Resurrection

Chapter Twenty: The Force of Will

Bibliography

Introduction

The principles I share with you in this book are the result of many years of searching and studying, of pondering many difficult questions that have not been answered by traditional channels.

Essential to this study is the spiritual meaning of numbers. My first introduction to this method came through the book by E.W. Bullinger titled "Number in Scripture – Its Supernatural Design and Spiritual Significance." Later, I came across another book by Dr. Ed F. Vallowe titled "Biblical Mathematics – Keys to Scripture Numerics – How to Count the Bible." I highly recommend these books as a platform for the understanding of the spiritual meaning behind the numbers in the Bible.

This study challenges many traditional areas of thought and presents a view of _sowing and reaping_ , a principle which most are at least a little familiar with but really haven't given much thought to. When I first began this work I didn't realize just how important and all-encompassing this principle is. I think you too might be surprised.

There are mistakes in this presentation, not by intention, but out of ignorance. I am still and always will be learning. It has been difficult to put aside what I have inherited in order to see from a fresh perspective.

In His Grace,

Jack Marshall

Please note: All Hebrew and Greek definitions are taken from the Strong's Greek and Hebrew Dictionary unless otherwise noted.

Psalms 139:13-15 (NKJV)

For you formed my inward parts; you covered me in my mother's womb.

I will praise you for

I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Marvelous are your works, and that my soul knows very well.

My frame was not hidden from you, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

"The mind is its own place and in itself,

can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell of Heaven."

John Milton

### CHAPTER ONE

Numbers and Parables

This book or "study" as I like to define it, relies heavily on the spiritual meaning of the numbers in scripture. Why? Because I believe that they are as much a part of our Creator's divine inspiration as the scriptures themselves (II Peter 1:21).

The very first chapter of the Bible begins with the _six_ days of creation along with the _seventh_ day of God's rest, the Sabbath, and the spiritual meaning of just the first seven numbers is enough to challenge anyone's understanding. But, it doesn't end there. Who hasn't heard about the mark of the beast (666; Rev. 13:18) or the thousand (1000) year reign (Rev. 20:4) in the book of the Revelation? Just to make a point, is it simply a coincidence that the first and only appearance of the number "666" in the New Testament is found in Revelation 13:18? Consider E. W. Bullinger's explanation of the spiritual meaning of _thirteen_.

As to the significance of thirteen, all are aware that it has come down to us as a number of ill-omen. Many superstitions cluster around it, and various explanations are current concerning them.

Unfortunately, those who go backwards to find a reason seldom go back far enough. The popular explanations do not, so far as we are aware, go further back than the Apostles. But we must go back to the first occurrence of the number thirteen in order to discover the key to its significance. It occurs first in Gen 14:4, where we read "Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and the thirteenth year they REBELLED."

Hence every occurrence of the number thirteen, and likewise of every multiple of it, stamps that with which it stands in connection with rebellion, apostasy, defection, corruption, disintegration, revolution, or some kindred idea.

The second mention of thirteen is in connection with Ishmael, Gen 17:25. He was thirteen years old when Abraham circumcised him and admitted him into the covenant to which he was a stranger in heart, and which ended in his rebellion and rejection.

Notice that the number 666 is _three_ sixes, which added together gives us the number _eighteen_ , the same verse in which the number 666 is found. _Eighteen_ is the number that stands for _bondage_. So the chapter and verse where the mark of the beast is found appears to further define the number itself; _rebellion_ or _corruption_ along with _bondage_ (Luke 13:4-5, 16). We will look into this more as we get further along with this study.

It should come as no surprise that numbers in scripture have spiritual meaning. After all, our world as we know it could not exist without them. Numbers are essential in the simplest form of measurement to the highest degree of quantum physics. Without them, we simply couldn't make sense of many things. As an example, the most powerful system in the world, the economic system, is mainly numbers found in computer programs across the globe.

Perhaps the best definition of numbers is "logic." The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines logic as, "A system" or "mode of reasoning." When we consider the numbers seen in scripture, they often produce patterns that help to enlighten us. Consider the following example.

Galatians 5:19-23 (NKJV)

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery (1), fornication (2), uncleanness (3), lewdness (4), idolatry (5), sorcery (6), hatred (7), contentions (8), jealousies (9), outbursts of wrath (10), selfish ambitions (11), dissensions (12), heresies (13), envy (14), murders (15), drunkenness (16), revelries (17), and the like ( **18** ); of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love (1), joy (2), peace (3), longsuffering (4), kindness (5), goodness (6), faithfulness (7), gentleness (8), self-control (9). Against such there is no law ( **10** ).

Knowing that _eighteen_ is the number that stands for _bondage_ , is it just coincidence that Paul enumerates _eighteen_ things when he speaks about "the works of the flesh?" He then follows with "the fruit of the Spirit" and lists _nine_ attributes. Concerning the number _nine_ , Bullinger writes, "It is the _last_ of the digits, and thus marks the _end_ ; and is significant of the _conclusion_ of a matter. It is akin to the number _six_ , six being the sum of its factors (3 x 3 = 9, and 3 + 3 = 6), and is thus significant of the _end of man_ , and the summation of all man's works. _Nine_ is, therefore, _the number of finality or judgment_ , for judgment is committed unto Jesus as "the Son of man" (John 5:27; Acts 17:31). It marks the completeness, the end and issue of all things as to man—the judgment of man and all his works." When we think about what Bullinger wrote, then it helps us to understand that the judgment of God is neither random or without purpose. Rather, it is so we might produce "the fruit of the Spirit." So Paul continues with, "Against such there is no law." And how is the law of God summed up? In the Ten Commandments (10). As we can see, the logic of the numbers in these passages shows a specific pattern that helps us to better understand their intent. Let's consider another example found in the first chapter of the book of Matthew, which leads to an interesting understanding.

Matthew 1:1, 17 (KJV)

1 The **book of the generation of Jesus Christ** , the son of David, the son of Abraham.

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are **fourteen** generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are **fourteen** generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are **fourteen** generations.

Most of us don't care to read about the generations listed in the Bible and Matthew, Chapter 1, is no exception. However, we find some interesting things to consider when we apply the spiritual meaning of numbers to the names listed in verses 2 through 16.

Notice how verse 17 of Matthew, Chapter 1, states that there are "fourteen generations" in three segments. This would give us 42 names. But if we count the names listed, we will find that there are only thirteen in the final segment for a total of 41 names. What happened to the 42nd or final generation? In order to understand, let's consider the spiritual meaning behind several of the numbers.

The most obvious number given in Matthew 1:17 is _fourteen_. It is used 26 times in the Bible and represents _deliverance_ or _salvation_ , because it was on the _fourteenth_ day of the first month of the year when the children of Israel were _delivered_ from Egyptian bondage and from the judgment which fell upon their firstborn (Exod. 12:6-7; Exod. 12:12-13; Lev. 23:4-5).

What also stands out is that fourteen is _seven doubled_ , _seven_ being one of the most important numbers in scripture. Bullinger states that _seven_ is from the root which means " _to be full_ or _satisfied_ , _have enough of_. Hence the meaning of the word 'seven' is dominated by this root, for on the _seventh_ day God rested from the work of Creation. It was full and complete, and good and perfect. Nothing could be added to it or taken from it without marring it." Bullinger then tells us "It is _seven_ , therefore, that stamps with perfection and completeness that in connection with which it is used. Of _time_ , it tells of the Sabbath, and marks off the week of seven days, which, artificial as it may seem to be, is universal and immemorial in its observance amongst all nations and in all times. It tells of that eternal Sabbath-keeping which remains for the people of God in all its everlasting perfection. In the creative works of God, _seven_ completes the colors of the spectrum and rainbow, and satisfies in music the notes of the scale. In each of these the _eighth_ is only a repetition of the _first_. Another meaning of the root... is _to swear_ , or _make an oath_. It is clear from its first occurrence in Genesis 21:31, 'They sware both of them,' that this oath was based upon the 'seven ewe lambs' (vv 28, 29, 30), which point to the idea of _satisfaction_ or _fullness_ in an oath. It was the _security_ , _satisfaction_ , and _fullness_ of the obligation, or completeness of the bond, which caused the same word to be used for both the number _seven_ and an _oath_ ; and hence it is written, 'An oath for confirmation is an end of all strife.' Beer- _sheba_ , _the well of the oath_ , is the standing witness of the spiritual perfection of the number _seven_."

Seven is used over 700 times in the Bible, 54 in the book of the Revelation. It is considered the most sacred number to the Hebrews. It is the combination of the number _four_ or "number of _creation_ " with _three_ , the number that "stands for that which is _solid_ , _real_ , _substantial_ , _complete_ , and _entire_. When we turn to the scriptures, this completion becomes _Divine_ , and marks Divine completeness or perfection" (Bullinger).

Since _fourteen_ is _two_ sevens, let's consider the meaning of _two_. From Bullinger.

We now come to the spiritual significance of the number Two. We have seen that _One_ excludes all difference, and denotes that which is sovereign. But Two affirms that there is a difference—there is _another_ ; while One affirms that there is not another!

This _difference_ may be for good or for evil. A thing may differ from evil, and be good; or it may differ from good, and be evil. Hence, the number Two takes a two-fold coloring, according to the context.

It is the first number by which we can _divide_ another, and therefore in all its uses we may trace this fundamental idea of _division_ or _difference_.

The _two_ may be, though different in character, yet one as to testimony and friendship. The Second that comes in may be for help and deliverance. But, alas! Where man is concerned, this number testifies of his fall, for it more often denotes that difference which implies _opposition_ , _enmity_ , and _oppression_.

To say it plainly, _two_ is the number of _union_ or _witness_ , where two become one (Gen. 2:24), or it can represent _division_ , where two are _divided_ from one another (Amos 3:3). Jesus sent His disciples out two by two, as _witnesses_ of one another (Matt. 18:16).

There are two other numbers to consider from our passages in Matthew, Chapter 1, which are _three_ and _forty-two_. Forty-two is _three_ times _fourteen_ (presented in verse 17). The number _three_ is one of the more important numbers.

Here's Bullinger's explanation from _Number in Scripture_.

In this number we have quite a new set of phenomena. We come to the first geometrical figure. Two straight lines cannot possibly enclose any space, or form a plane figure; neither can two plan surfaces form a solid. _Three_ lines are necessary to form a plan figure; and three dimensions of length, breadth, and height, are necessary to form a solid. Hence _three_ is the symbol of the cube—the simplest form of solid figure. As two is the symbol of the square, or plane contents (x2), so three is the symbol of the cube, or solid contents (x3).

_Three_ , therefore, stands for that which is _solid_ , _real_ , _substantial_ , _complete_ , and _entire_.

All things that are specially _complete_ are stamped with this number three.

God's attributes are _three_ : omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.

There are three great divisions completing time— _past_ , _present_ , and _future_.

Three persons, in grammar, express and include all the relationships of mankind.

Thought, word, and deed, complete the sum of human capability.

Three degrees of comparison complete our knowledge of qualities.

The simplest proposition requires three things to complete it; viz., the _subject_ , the _predicate_ , and the _copula_.

Three propositions are necessary to complete the simplest form of argument—the _major premiss_ , the _minor_ , and the _conclusion_.

Three kingdoms embrace our ideas of matter— _mineral_ , _vegetable_ , and _animal_.

When we turn to the Scriptures, this completion becomes _Divine_ , and marks Divine completeness or perfection.

_Three_ is the first of four perfect numbers.

_Three_ denotes _divine_ perfection;

_Seven_ denotes _spiritual_ perfection;

_Ten_ denotes _ordinal_ perfection; and

_Twelve_ denotes _governmental_ perfection.

Hence the number _three_ points us to what is real, essential, perfect, substantial, complete, and divine. There is nothing real in man or of man. Everything "under the sun" and apart from God is "vanity." "Every man at his best estate is altogether vanity" (Psalms 139:5,11, 62:9, 144:4; Eccl 1:2,4, 2:11,17,26, 3:19, 4:4, 11:8, 12:8; Rom 8:20).

As we see, _three_ is an important number. Representing that which is "solid, real, substantial, complete, and entire," _three_ is even better defined as the number which signifies the "work" or "deeds" of God or man. This understanding is best illustrated in Mark, Chapter 4, where Jesus likened the kingdom of God "as if a man should scatter seed on the ground" and then states, "For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade (1), then the head (2), after that the full grain in the head ( **3** )." As this shows, in the _three_ we see the "work" of the "seed" as evidenced by "the full grain in the head."

Matthew 1:1 (KJV)

The **book** of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Revelation 1:1 (KJV)

The **Revelation** of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants' things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John...

Though we have _three_ different segments of _fourteen_ generations, it is but the _one_ "generation of Jesus Christ," is it not? Matthew begins his gospel with, "The _book_ of the generation of Jesus Christ" while John begins the book of Revelation with, "The _Revelation_ of Jesus Christ." Matthew refers to the Lord's genealogy while John refers to the "revelation" or "disclosure" of this particular generation. Matthew, by divine inspiration, gives us the "book," while John gives us the "revelation" of this "book." As stated, _forty-two_ is significant, so look at the following from Revelation.

Revelation 11:2 (KJV)

But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot **forty and two** months.

Revelation 13:5 (KJV)

And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue **forty and two** months.

In both of these passages we see a period of "forty and two months," agreeing with our _three times fourteen_ found in Matthew 1:17. Is this just a coincidence or is there something deeper to be realized in this presentation? We should also note that "forty and two months" is _seven_ times _six_ , our number for "spiritual perfection" times "the number of imperfection; the human number; the number of _man_ as destitute of God, without God, without Christ" (Bullinger). So is it possible that the 42 months signifies a time in which man's enmity with God (6) is dealt with by the spiritual perfection (7) of the living Word of truth as designated by the law and the prophets (Matt. 5:17)? Of course, this would not be a literal 42 months, but a spiritual work (3) of deliverance (14) initiated by our heavenly Father.

If what we have considered is correct, then the idea of our seven times six as defined in our passages in Matthew may contain a key to our understanding of the book of Revelation. Keep in mind that it is in _three_ segments of _fourteen_. Not surprisingly then, we have _six_ important sevens to consider in _three_ different segments. The first segment is found in Revelation 1:20.

Revelation 1:20 (NKJV)

The mystery of the **seven stars** which you saw in my right hand, and the **seven golden lampstands** : The **seven stars** are the angels of the seven churches, and the **seven lampstands** which you saw are the seven churches.

This passage contains our first two sevens or _fourteen_ , which are the "seven stars" or "angels" and the "seven lampstands" (candlesticks; KJV) or "churches." I believe this sets the stage for the entire book of Revelation. The seven churches are listed for us in Revelation 1:11, but who or what are the seven angels? Hebrews 1:7 tells us God "makes His angels _spirits_ ," so let's bring this idea to the following passage.

Revelation 4:5 (KJV)

And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were **seven lamps of fire** burning before the throne, which are the **seven Spirits** of God.

When John is taken to the throne of God in Revelation, Chapter 4, he sees "seven lamps of fire burning before the throne," telling us they are the "seven _Spirits_ of God." Would this be the seven angels? If so, these "seven Spirits" or "angels" are better explained in Isaiah, Chapter 11.

Isaiah 11:1-4 (KJV)

And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: and the **spirit** of the Lord shall rest upon him, the **spirit** of **wisdom** (1) and **understanding** (2), the **spirit** of **counsel** (3) and **might** (4), the **spirit** of **knowledge** (5) and of the **fear** of the Lord (6); and shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: but with **righteousness** ( **7** ) shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.

"The seven stars are the angels," or _spirits_ , "of the seven churches" or "lampstands" and these seven spirits are given as: 1) wisdom, 2) understanding, 3) counsel, 4) might, 5) knowledge, 6) fear, and 7) righteousness. But note that it is just the ONE "Spirit of the Lord" in which these seven characteristics are found. So when we apply the spiritual meaning of _seven_ , what we are actually seeing is the "spiritual perfection" (7) or "fullness of God" (7; Eph. 3:19; Col. 1:19) summed up in "righteousness." No wonder Jesus taught, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His _righteousness_ " (Matt. 6:33; KJV) and Paul wrote, "For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but _righteousness_ and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Rom. 14:17; NKJV).

Our first two sevens or _fourteen_ are now defined. This leaves two more sets of fourteen in the book of Revelation. Following the disclosure of the seven stars and lampstands, we immediately find _seven_ messages or prophecies given to the churches in Chapters 2 and 3. In Chapter 4, John is then taken to the "throne" of God. This continues into Chapter 5, where John sees another _seven_ if you will, "in the right hand of him that sat on the throne," which is "a book written within and on the backside, sealed with _seven seals_ " (Rev. 5:1; KJV). This defines our second segment of _fourteen_ because I am inclined to believe that our _seven messages_ to the churches are connected to _the book sealed with seven seals_.

2 Corinthians 3:2-3 (NIV)

**You yourselves are our letter** , written on our hearts, known and read by everybody. You show that **you are a letter from Christ** , the result of our ministry, **written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts**.

When we bring the idea of the " _book_ of the generation of Jesus Christ" and "a _book_...sealed with seven seals" together with the preceding passages, we should realize that this "book" in "the _right hand_ of him that sat on the throne" does not refer to a literal writing of any sort but to _people_ in whom the "Spirit of the living God" is working and writing, "not on tablets of stone but _on tablets of human hearts_." We can derive from this that the seven messages or prophecies given in Revelation, Chapters 2 and 3, is further illustrated and defined in the book seen in the _right hand_ of our Father in Revelation, Chapter 5. Jesus confirms our perspective in Matthew 25:33, stating, "And he shall set the sheep on his _right hand_ " (KJV). As we continue in the book of the Revelation, we find that the seven seals of this book are opened and represent the unfolding of the prophecies given by Christ through the seven churches in Revelation, Chapters 2 and 3.

Our last _fourteen_ in the book of Revelation comes out of the seventh seal. Since seven indicates "fullness," we could say that once the "fullness" of the living Word is reached, we arrive at Isaiah 11:4 where we read, "But with _righteousness_ shall he _judge_." Anyone who is familiar with the book of Revelation knows that there is certainly a judgment seen in its pages, but as noted earlier, it is not a judgment of damnation and doom, but a divine work intended to produce "the fruit of the Spirit" (Gal. 5:22; KJV). It is a judgment out of the righteousness of Christ and the love of God for His creation. This judgment is represented by the _seven_ trumpets and _seven_ vials (Rev. 8:2, 6; 15:1; 16:1), which gives us our third and last _fourteen_.

We now have six sevens in _three_ segments of _fourteen_ each, agreeing with the "forty and two months" seen in Revelation 11:2 and 13:5. This shows us that the "forty and two months" _is not a literal time span_ , but indicative of the prophecies given in Revelation, Chapters 2 and 3, and the spiritual work and fulfillment (7) of these prophecies in His people.

There is certainly much more to be considered in all of this, but that is not the point of this chapter. What we find is when we consider the spiritual meaning of numbers in scripture and apply their meaning, it opens up patterns and an understanding that we would not otherwise see. There is no doubt that this leads to a deeper appreciation of the wisdom of God as revealed by His Word.

Now, having defined our 42 in Revelation, let's return to our list in Matthew, Chapter 1. Remember, we only have 41 names given. If our three fourteens or 42 is important, then where is this 42nd person?

1 Corinthians 15:46 (NKJV)

However, the spiritual is not first, **but the natural** , and **afterward the spiritual**.

This passage presents a key understanding which is relevant in this study and to the point at hand. Simply put, it is essential to recognize the difference between what is "natural" and what is "spiritual." This difference helps explain our 42nd person seen in Matthew 1:16.

Matthew 1:16 (NKJV)

And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, **of whom was born Jesus** who is called **Christ**.

First "the natural," so Matthew, Chapter 1, lists the literal, physical, and thus _natural_ "generation of Jesus Christ," beginning with Abraham and ending with Jesus Himself. Up to and including the birth of Jesus, the purpose of God was evident in a natural people who were delivered from Egypt, brought into the wilderness, given an external law and ordinances, and taken captive by several empires throughout history. As all of this transpired, the natural genealogy as given in Matthew, Chapter 1, continued until the time of the Roman Empire in which Jesus was born. But once He entered into the world, the _natural_ generation was about to end and a spiritual shift would take place that would change the course of the world forever.

Not much is recorded in the gospels concerning the birth of Jesus, but enough is written for us to understand that His birth was in accordance with the prophecies given to the people of Israel long before His arrival on this earthly plane. No doubt, His birth was a wondrous event, however, it pales in comparison to what took place at the Jordan River when Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized.

Matthew 3:13-17 (NKJV)

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. And John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and are you coming to me?" But Jesus answered and said to him, "Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him. When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, **the heavens were opened to Him** , and **He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him**. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

Recorded in these passages is the simple act of John the Baptist baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River, but in this ceremony, the world was changed forever. "When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, _the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him_." John writes in his gospel that the Spirit _remained_ on Him (John 1:33). At this moment, the "natural" man Jesus became the "spiritual" man or "Christ," this word meaning "anointed." The natural _ended_ with Jesus, the 41st person, and the spiritual _began_ with the 42nd person, _Christ_. So Matthew wrote, "and from the carrying away into Babylon unto _Christ_ are fourteen generations," _not fourteen to Jesus_ , but to "Christ." For this reason Matthew wrote, "of whom was born Jesus, who is called _Christ_."

Matthew 16:13-17 (NKJV)

When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, "Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?" So they said, "Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered and said, " **You are the Christ** , the Son of the living God." Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven."

In agreement with our understanding of Jesus as the Christ, when He asked Peter, "But who do you say that I am?" He replied, "You are the _Christ_ , the Son of the living God." Jesus then said, " _Blessed_ are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not _revealed_ this to you, but My Father who is in heaven." The word "revealed" is the Greek word _apokalyptō_ , the root from which the word _apokalypsis_ or "revelation" is taken from in Revelation 1:1, "The _revelation_ of Jesus Christ." It means "to take _off the cover_ , i.e. _disclose_." The revelation of Jesus _as the Christ_ is to understand how the natural became the spiritual, how the "Son of Man" became "the Son of the Living God." And "flesh and blood" cannot reveal this to us. No wonder the Lord told John, "I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending" (Rev. 1:8; NKJV). As Christ, He was "the beginning of the creation of God" (Rev. 3:14; KJV) but as Jesus, the "Son of Man," He was the "ending" of the natural. "And so it is written, 'The _first_ man Adam was made a living soul; the _last_ Adam was made a quickening (life-giving) spirit'" (I Cor. 15:45; KJV).

Further confirmation is found in the phrase "forty and two months" (Rev. 11:2; 13:5; KJV). Here we have "forty" followed by "two." Here is Bullinger's explanation of the spiritual meaning of _forty_.

FORTY has long been universally recognized as an important number, both on account of the frequency of its occurrence, and the uniformity of its association with a period of _probation_ , _trial_ , and _chastisement_ —(not _judgment_ , like the number 9, which stands in connection with the punishment of enemies, but the chastisement of sons, and of a covenant people). It is the product of 5 and 8, and points to the action of _grace_ (5), leading to and ending in _revival_ and _renewal_ (8). This is certainly the case where _forty_ relates to a period of evident _probation_. But where it relates to _enlarged dominion_ , or to _renewed_ or _extended rule_ , then it does so in virtue of its factors 4 and 10, and in harmony with their signification.

There are 15 such periods which appear on the surface of the Scriptures, and which may be thus classified:—

_Forty Years of Probation by Trial_ :

Israel in the wilderness, Deut 8:2-5; Psa 95:10; Acts 13:18 (the third 40 of Moses' life, 120 years).

Israel from the crucifixion to the destruction of Jerusalem.

_Forty Years of Probation by Prosperity in Deliverance and Rest_ :

Under Othniel, Judg 3:11,

Under Barak, Judg 5:31,

Under Gideon, Judg 8:28

_Forty Years of Probation by Prosperity in Enlarged Dominion_ :

Under David, 2 Sam 5:4,

Under Solomon, 1 Kings 11:42,

Under Jeroboam II. See 2 Kings 12:17, 18, 13:3, 5, 7, 22, 25, 14:12-14, 23, 28,

Under Jehoash, 2 Kings 12:1,

Under Joash, 2 Chron 24:1.

_Forty Years of Probation by Humiliation and Servitude_ :

Israel under the Philistines, Judg 13:1.

Israel in the time of Eli, 1 Sam 4:18.

Israel under Saul, Acts 13:21.

_Forty Years of Probation by Waiting_ :

Moses in Egypt, Acts 7:23.

Moses in Midian, Acts 7:30

FORTY DAYS

There are _eight_ of such great periods on the surface of the Bible:

_Forty_ days Moses was in the mount to receive the Law, Exo 24:18.

_Forty_ days Moses was in the mount after the sin of the Golden Calf, Deut 9:18, 25.

_Forty_ days of the spies, issuing in the penal sentence of the 40 years, Num 13:26, 14:34.

_Forty_ days of Elijah in Horeb, 1 Kings 19:8.

_Forty_ days of Jonah and Nineveh, Jonah 3:4.

_Forty_ days Ezekiel lay on his right side to symbolize the 40 years of Judah's transgression. *

_Forty_ days Jesus was tempted of the Devil, Matt 4:2.

_Forty_ days Jesus was seen of His disciples, speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, Acts 1:3.

* Thus 40 becomes a number closely connected with Judah, as 390 (Eze 4:5) is the number of separated Israel. The significance of this will be seen (on p. 215), for 40 is a multiple of 8, and 390 is a multiple of 13. It may also be noted that 65 (5×13) is the number of Ephraim, while 70 is specially connected with Jerusalem.

_Two_ speaks of _division_ or _witness_ , depending on the context, so in the number "forty and _two_ months," we see a time of "probation" and "trial" through which we pass in order to be separated (divided; 2) from the world and stand as a witness (2) of the truth as it is in Christ. As we have seen, this "forty and two months" defines a process where the "seven lampstands" or "churches" go through the fulfillment of the seven prophecies given in Revelation, Chapters 2 and 3. This fulfillment is seen in more detail in the symbolism of the seals, trumpets and vials.

Galatians 3:24 (NKJV)

Therefore the law was our tutor **to bring us to Christ** , that we might be justified by faith.

Who is the 42nd generation? Christ. In confirmation, Paul writes that "the law was our tutor _to bring us to Christ_ ," agreeing with the phrase "from the carrying away into Babylon unto _Christ_ are _fourteen_ generations."

The idea of symbolism brings us to the next point in this chapter which concerns parables.

The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines _parable_ as, "a short allegorical story designed to illustrate or teach some truth, religious principle, or moral lesson," and "a statement or comment that conveys a meaning indirectly by the use of comparison, analogy, or the like."

Anyone who is familiar with the Bible knows it is filled with symbols from beginning to end. The story of Adam and Eve _is a parable_ , for it is obvious that there is no such thing as a "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" or a "tree of life" (Gen. 2:9), just as the "serpent" is not a literal, talking snake (Gen. 3:1). Jesus often taught in parables, so much so that His disciples asked Him, "Why do you speak to them (the crowd) in parables" (Matt. 13:10; KJV)?

The beauty of parables parallels the beauty of the spiritual meaning of numbers in scripture, presenting us with "pictures" if you will that help us to better understand spiritual principles. This should come as no surprise, for the truth is all of us think in "pictures," not words. For example, if I say "car," what do you see, the word "car" or a mental "picture" of an automobile? So is the nature of parables. I emphasize that the Bible is filled with this type of presentation, both in the Old Testament and the New.

The difficulty of understanding a parable lies in our perception. Using our earlier example, if I say "car," you might think of a small and compact race car. On the other hand, I may picture a large, plush, and elegant vehicle. Both of these perceptions are a result of the word "car." In the same fashion, Jesus told His disciples, "This is why I speak to them in parables: 'Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand'" (Matt. 13:13; NIV). In other words, it is a matter of perception. _Where our heart is determines what we receive from the parable_. So a parable can either hide or reveal the truth, depending on our spiritual position at the time.

Look again at our definition of parable, "a short _allegorical_ story." Let me share with you the definitions of the elements used to consider the various things presented in this study. All of these are taken from The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online).

Allegory

1.

a. The representation of abstract ideas or principles by characters, figures, or events in narrative, dramatic, or pictorial form.

b. A story, picture, or play employing such representation. John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and Herman Melville's Moby Dick are allegories.

2. A symbolic representation.

Metaphor

1. A figure of speech in which a word or phrase that ordinarily designates one thing is used to designate another, thus making an implicit comparison, as in "a sea of troubles" or "All the world's a stage" (Shakespeare).

2. One thing conceived as representing another; a symbol.

Symbol

1. Something that represents something else by association, resemblance, or convention, especially a material object used to represent something invisible.

Pattern

1.

a. A model or original used as an archetype.

b. A person or thing considered worthy of imitation.

2. A plan, diagram, or model to be followed in making things: a dress pattern.

3. A representative sample; a specimen.

4. A consistent, characteristic form, style, or method.

Archetype

1. An original model or type after which other similar things are patterned; a prototype.

2. An ideal example of a type; quintessence.

Analogy

1.

a. Similarity in some respects between things that are otherwise dissimilar.

b. A comparison based on such similarity.

Type

1. A figure, representation, or symbol of something to come, such as an event in the Old Testament that foreshadows another in the New Testament.

Numbers are a pure language because regardless of how you say it, two is always two. Furthermore, when we say "two," we don't necessarily picture anything unless we say two of something. For this reason, numbers are always used in conjunction with other elements. On the other hand, parables seem ambiguous, appearing to be open to more than one interpretation. But this doesn't necessarily mean that a parable doesn't have but one true understanding. Again, _it is a matter of perception_. How we see it is determined by what spirit we are in (Luke 9:54-56). If we seek to understand from a spirit of pride and self-righteousness as opposed to a spirit of humility, we most certainly will arrive at the wrong perception. Why? Because _pride_ forces our own interpretation into it. This is why Jesus said, "Seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand" (Matt. 13:13; NKJV). On the other hand, _humility_ places us in the position to _receive_ what was meant. For this reason, Jesus told His disciples, "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, _he will guide you_ into all truth" (John 16:13; KJV). What is true needs the right "spirit" to reveal its essence as truth. Jesus didn't say we will know what is true and that will make us free, rather, "you shall know the _truth_ , and the _truth_ will make you free" (John 8:32; KJV). What is true is static, but _the truth is dynamic_ because the Spirit of it will give it life. This is the meaning of the word "Christ."
CHAPTER TWO

### The Dream

Daniel 2:31-33 (KJV)

Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. This image's **head was of fine gold** , his **breast and his arms of silver** , **his belly and his thighs of brass** , **his legs of iron** , **his feet part of iron and part of clay**.

There is a fascinating story in the book of Daniel concerning a king of the Babylonian Empire named Nebuchadnezzar. In the second year of his reign he had dreams, one in particular that has mystified and intrigued and inspired a host of various ideas concerning its meaning. This too is one of those ideas based in part on the spiritual meaning of numbers in scripture and the patterns which arise when these spiritual meanings are applied.

First of all, let's consider the fact that not only did Nebuchadnezzar not understand what he dreamed, he even forgot the dream itself (Dan. 2:5; KJV).

James 1:22-24 (NKJV)

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, **he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror** ; for he observes himself, goes away, and **immediately forgets** what kind of man he was.

When I think of the fact that Nebuchadnezzar couldn't remember the dream or its meaning, I think of the passages above. The dream of Nebuchadnezzar _began with him_ , confirmed by the fact that Daniel told him, " _You_ are this head of gold" (Dan. 2:38; NKJV). Being the "head," Nebuchadnezzar observed "his _natural_ face in a mirror" (key word here being "natural") and then immediately forgot "what kind of man he was." I Corinthians 2:14 reads, "The _natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God_ , for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." For this reason, Nebuchadnezzar had to have Daniel, a spiritual man who was able to discern spiritual things, tell him both the dream and its interpretation (Dan. 2:30, 36).

Nebuchadnezzar's dream showed a "great image, whose brightness was excellent...and the form thereof was terrible," clearly the image of a man. The first thing I wish to point out is the number of elements and body parts described in this image.

Body Parts:

1. Head

2. Breast

3. Arms

4. Belly

5. Thighs

6. Legs

7. Feet

Elements:

1. Fine gold

2. Silver

3. Brass

4. Iron

5. Clay

If we follow Daniel's description explicitly, here's how it's given:

1. Head of Fine Gold

2. Breast and Arms of Silver

3. Belly and Thighs of Brass

4. Legs of Iron

5. Feet Part of Iron and Part of Clay

Note that there are _seven_ body parts in the image. In Number in Scripture, E.W. Bullinger tells us that _seven_ is "the great number of spiritual perfection. A number which, therefore, occupies so large a place in the works, and especially in the Word of God as being inspired by the Holy Spirit." As we have found, this number speaks of "spiritual perfection" or _totality_ , representing _fullness_ or _maturity_ and _manifestation_ and appears more in scripture than any other number with the exception of the number one. Is it merely circumstantial that there are _seven_ body parts described in Nebuchadnezzar's dream which make up the "totality" of this image? Let's look once more at what Bullinger says about the number _seven_.

It is _seven_ , therefore, that stamps with perfection and completeness that in connection with which it is used. Of _time_ , it tells of the Sabbath, and marks off the week of seven days, which, artificial as it may seem to be, is universal and immemorial in its observance amongst all nations and in all times. It tells of that eternal Sabbath-keeping which remains for the people of God in all its everlasting perfection.

In the creative works of God, _seven_ completes the colors of the spectrum and rainbow, and satisfies in music the notes of the scale. In each of these the _eighth_ is only a repetition of the _first_.

As we can see, seven "stamps with perfection and completeness that in connection with which it is used." So it is that there are _seven_ body parts described in this dream, presenting to us a completeness through the union of the material creation of humankind (4) with the dynamic, spiritual working (3) of its Maker. Don't we read that God formed man from the dust of the ground (material creation) and then breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spiritual creation; Gen. 2:7; KJV)?

There are _five_ elements shown. _Five_ is the number of "grace," and isn't humankind the recipient of God's grace? _Five_ elements are given, four metals and clay. The body parts and elements are listed together as _five_ in Daniel 2:32-33.

Like the number _two_ which signifies _division_ and its opposite, _witness_ , _five_ also signifies "sin."

John 1:29 (KJV)

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, **Behold the Lamb of God** , **which taketh away the sin** of the world.

**GRACE** :

1. Behold

2. The

3. Lamb

4. Of

5. God

**SIN** :

1. Which

2. Taketh

3. Away

4. The

5. Sin

Romans 5:20 (KJV)

Moreover the law entered, **that the offence might abound** (5). But where sin abounded, **grace did much more abound** (5)...

Man has _five_ senses, _five_ fingers on each hand, and _five_ toes on each foot. Most of our work is accomplished with our hands, so in scripture, the hands signify our "work" or "deeds," whereas the feet, which are used to push or move forward, illustrate our "walk" or "conduct," the _push_ of our will and purpose in life. With this in mind, consider the following passages.

1 John 3:4 (KJV)

... sin is **the transgression of the law** (5).

Genesis 4:7 (KJV)

If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? And **if thou doest not well** (5), **sin lieth at the door** (5). And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Sin is what? The transgression of the law (5); in other words, an _act_ or _deed_. When God spoke to Cain after he had brought his offering, note how He stated, "If thou doest well" or "If thou doest not well (5)." In agreement with our passages in James, Chapter 1, it is about _what we do_. To put it simply, when we don't do well, "sin lieth at the door" (5).

So in the image of Nebuchadnezzar, we find _spiritual manifestation_ (7), either good or evil, the fearfulness of man in sin, or the wonder of God's grace in man when it is given. No wonder the Psalmist wrote, "I will praise you, for _I am fearfully and wonderfully made_ (6; number of man; created on the _sixth_ day)...my frame was not hidden from you, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth" (Psalms 139:13, 15; NKJV). When humankind does well, it is a wonderful thing, but when we don't do well, it is indeed fearful. And only by God's grace and process are we set free of sin to walk in the testimony of the truth.

When we add the _seven_ body parts and _five_ elements together, we have _twelve_ , the number of "governmental perfection" (Bullinger) or _government by divine appointment_. God alone exalts and abases (Psalms 37:34; Dan. 4:32, 37; Matt. 23:12), even at the most personal of levels.

It is apparent as one goes through the interpretation of the dream that the metals of this image reveal four literal kingdoms which began with Nebuchadnezzar and the kingdom of Babylon. The other three kingdoms that followed were the Medes/Persians, Greece, and Italy (the Roman Empire). However, have you ever stopped to consider that there are "kingdoms" within us? Jesus said, "The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, 'See here!' or 'See there!' For indeed, _the kingdom of God is within you_ " (Luke 17:20; NKJV). The Hebrew definition of the word _kingdom_ simply means "dominion," taken from the Hebrew word which means "to _reign_."

Genesis 1:26 (KJV)

And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and **let them have dominion**...

To emphasize, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made." These two characteristics are adequate, for the history of humankind certainly shows both. In our present age, our technological advances have created what seems to be a virtual paradise on earth for many of us, but at what cost? Man, in his pursuit of dominion over all things, has paid a significant price in his treatment of each, especially with his own species.

As we see, there are four literal kingdoms revealed by the gold, silver, brass and iron and also encapsulated within the seven body parts. _Four_ is "the number of Creation; of man in his relation to the world as created" (Bullinger). It marks God's creative works. As such, it denotes a _foundation_ since most houses and buildings are built or _created_ on a foundation with four sides. So in the symbolism of the _four_ metals we see an "inner" foundation in man as established by His Creator and a dominion that man desires to propagate in this world of form.

CHAPTER THREE

### The Husband

Daniel 2:32 (KJV)

This image's **head** was of **fine gold**...

Daniel 2:37-38 (NKJV)

You, O king, are a king of kings. For the God of heaven has given you a kingdom, power, strength, and glory; and wherever the children of men dwell, or the beasts of the field and the birds of the heaven, He has given them into your hand, and has made you ruler over them all— **you are this head of gold**.

Our dream and image begins with Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, whom Daniel states is represented as the "head of gold." In the Bible, _gold_ is symbolic of "divinity," what we deem as most valuable or "god" of our lives. Even in Abram's (Abraham) time, we read, "And Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, _and in gold_ " (Gen. 13:2; KJV). The first mention of this substance is in Genesis 2:11, connected to the _first_ of four rivers (named Pison) that flowed out from the Garden of Eden. Even today, gold is highly sought for and very expensive to obtain. Indirectly, it signifies the dominion which we have spoken about, for a rich man is better able to take dominion over things because of his wealth. Our present society clearly reveals that money _is_ power. Of the four metals shown in the image, the gold is by far the most valuable.

The head is the _beginning_ or the first part of the image which points to the spiritual meaning and significance of the number _one_. Consider Bullinger's explanation.

There can be no doubt as to the significance of this primary number. In all languages, it is the symbol of _unity_. As a cardinal number, it denotes _unity_ ; as an ordinal it denotes _primacy_. Unity being indivisible, and not made up of other numbers, is therefore independent of all others, and is the source of all others. So with the Deity. The great First Cause is independent of all. All stand in need of Him, and He needs no assistance from any.

" _One_ " excludes all difference, for there is no second with which it can either harmonize or conflict.

When it is written: "Hear, O Israel, the LORD thy God is one LORD," it does not deny the Doctrine of the Trinity, but it excludes absolutely _another_ Lord: it excludes, therefore, all idolatry.

Hence the First Commandment declares "Thou shalt have NO OTHER GODS" (Exo 20:3)

It asserts that there is in God a _sufficiency_ which needs no other; and an _independence_ which admits no other.

It marks the _beginning_. We must begin with God. All our words and works must be characterized by the _first_ words of the Bible: "In the beginning GOD." Nothing is right that does not begin with Him. "God first" is the voice of Scripture. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matt 6:33) is the testimony of Christ. "God first" is the great proclamation. The angels sang: "Glory to God in the highest." This was the beginning of their song. And it was after this that they sang of "good-will" towards man. This, too, must be the great principle governing all our testimony and our work. We cannot give "glory to God" without doing good to men. And there is no real good-will for men which does not spring from a desire to glorify God. The rapid declension, which is the great mark of these last days, comes from an ignoring of this great principle. God is shut out, and man is exalted. Hence "the gospel of God" (Rom 1:16) is being rapidly and almost universally superseded by the gospel of man, which is a gospel of sanitation and indeed is now openly called " _Christian Socialism_." But it is a socialism _without Christ_. It does not begin with the glory of God, and it will not and cannot end in any real good to man. It begins with man; its object is to improve the old nature apart from God, and to reform the flesh; and the measure of its success is the measure in which man can become "good" without "God."

Man's ways and thoughts are the opposite of God's. God says, "Seek _first_." Man says, "Take care of number one." He is in his own eyes this "number one," and his great aim is to be independent of God.

Independence, in God, is His glory. Independence in man, is his sin, and rebellion, and shame.

In the Word of God, therefore, God is first, and before all.

_One_ , like the start of our image, marks the "beginning," denoting _independence_ as well as _unity_ (where two become one). As we continue, we will find that both of these meanings come to bear in our consideration. The first component in our image is the head.

1 Corinthians 11:3 (NKJV)

But I want you to know that the **head** of every man is Christ, the **head** of woman is man, and the **head** of Christ is God.

In consideration of the number _twelve_ ( _five_ elements and _seven_ body parts) signifying _government by divine appointment_ , this passage reveals to us the government or hierarchy instituted by our Creator. God is the "head" of Christ, Christ the "head" of every man, and man is the "head" of woman.

1. God

2. Christ

3. Man

4. Woman

As we see, the number _four_ (God's _foundation_ and _creative_ works) is apparent in the hierarchy which God set forth from the beginning. As far as humankind (both male and female; Gen. 5:2) is concerned, "in his relation to the world as created" (4), this hierarchy or "dominion" was established by our Creator, not us, and therefore remains as the hierarchy which God intended. It cannot be changed. For this reason, it remains consistent throughout the Bible, from Old Testament to New. It is always God first, then Christ, man, and finally woman. This does not imply that a woman is inferior to man. Rather, it shows that God's purpose in creation, both natural and spiritual, is sustained by this order. As we get further into this study, we will understand why.

Matthew 4:4 (NKJV)

But He answered and said, "It is written, ' **Man** shall not live by bread alone, **but by every word** that proceeds from the mouth of God.' "

Psalms 33:6 (NKJV)

**By the word of the Lord** the heavens were made, and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.

Psalms 138:2 (NKJV)

I will worship toward your holy temple, and praise your name for your lovingkindness and your truth; for **you have magnified your word above all your name**.

1 Timothy 4:10 (NKJV)

... because we trust in the living God, **who is the Savior of all men** , especially of those who believe.

The definition of "head" from the Strong's Concordance reads, "probably from the primary _kapto_ (in the sense of _seizing_ ); the _head_ (as the part most readily _taken_ hold of), literal or figurative." To say that "the head of every man is Christ," is to say that _all men_ , without exception, are subject to " _every word_ that proceeds from the mouth of God." For this reason we are told that He is "the savior of _all men_ " but "especially of those who believe."

As we have learned, the word "Christ" means "anointed," taken from the word _chriō_ which reads "through the idea of _contact_ ; to _smear_ or _rub_ with oil." In the nation of Israel, the priest was anointed with oil poured upon the head (Exod. 28:41), signifying that they had been set apart to minister the Word of God to the people. The oil symbolizes the Spirit of God, which must be present with the Word of God for it to be "alive and powerful" (Heb. 4:12; NKJV). After Jesus was baptized by John, we read, "And the Holy Ghost (Spirit of God) descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased" (Luke 3:22; KJV). As we have seen, at this point Jesus became the "Christ," the Word made "alive" in the flesh (John 1:14) when He was anointed by the Spirit of God. To speak of Christ then is _to speak of the Spirit and the Word together_. This is why we read that the Lord has magnified His Word above His name. John wrote, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word _was_ God" (John 1:1; KJV). It is this living and powerful Word, which is the "head" of every man, regardless of whether he believes it or not. Because God's Word _is_ God, _man's faith in it is not required_. What God has purposed through His living Word shall be regardless of man's belief. This is confirmed by the fact that all that exists in the world of form follows certain laws and principles which are indelibly imprinted within that dictate their existence and behavior.

To speak of the "head" is to speak of that which has the _control_ or _authority_ over something or someone. As our hierarchy indicates, God has the ultimate control over all things while His Spirit and Word (Christ) has dominion over every man. The man in kind has authority over the woman. This authority is certainly apparent when applied to the head of the human form. It is the only part of our body which contains all five senses (the number of _sin_ or _grace_ ). In it lies the brain, an organ so complex in its design that man is still seeking to understand how it functions. Isn't it true that when one of these senses is damaged that the entire body suffers its effect?

Daniel 2:37 (NKJV)

You, O king, are **a king of kings**. For the God of heaven has given you a kingdom, power, strength, and glory...

In our image, the "head" is first, made of fine gold, and Daniel makes it clear that this symbolizes Nebuchadnezzar himself. But notice how Daniel states, "You, O king, are _a king of kings_." In other words, you are _above_ the other kings; you have and are the control _over all the other kingdoms_ represented by the other components of the body. This certainly agrees with the idea that the gold is the most valuable metal of the four as well as the head being the part that controls the rest of the body.

So what does the head symbolize? I believe it signifies that we were designed as creatures of _thought and that everything begins with the mind_.

All that we do is the end result of _thought_ or _thinking_. It is how we function in this world of form, and thought begins with _information_ or _knowledge_. For this reason, we find this idea presented in the beginning of the story of creation with Adam and Eve and a "tree of _knowledge_."

Genesis 2:9 (KJV)

... and **the tree of knowledge** of good and evil.

What type of tree do we find in the beginning? A tree of _knowledge_ , the _beginning foundation and structure of thought_. As we have said, it is _information_. We think on and about what we know or wish to know. But information is not enough. We must come to understand the information we have been presented with. It has to make sense to us before we can do anything with it. So how does understanding form? Through experience. This equates to wisdom. Wisdom is knowledge that becomes understanding through experience. As we continue, we will see that all three of these attributes are symbolized in the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Remember, the spiritual meaning of _three_ is "work" or "deeds," and denotes those actions which must first begin as information presented to our mind (Mark 4:26-29). For this reason Jesus speaks of the Word of God as a "seed," (Luke 8:11) which can be "sown" into the mind and heart of a person (Luke 8:11-15). Since there are _three_ attributes shown in the tree of knowledge, this typifies the inward "work" of the seed which begins with information (the _seed_ ) to become understanding through experience (wisdom; the _fruit_ on the tree; Gal. 5:22-23).

Genesis 3:6 (NKJV)

So when the woman saw that the tree was **good for food** , that it was **pleasant to the eyes** , and **a tree desirable to make one wise** , she took of its **fruit** and ate.

First of all, notice that our tree of knowledge is "good for food." Of course, this is not literal. "Good for food" is more readily "food for thought" and refers to knowledge or information. After all, if it is a tree of knowledge, then the "food" or fruit of this tree _would also be knowledge_ because a seed can only reproduce what it is (Gen. 1:11). We then read that the fruit of this tree was "pleasant to the eyes." This speaks of understanding (Eph. 1:18), the ability to "see" or _perceive_ what is meant by the information we have received (Matt. 13:15). The word "pleasant" means "to delight in," and isn't it true that we get a good feeling when we come to understand something? Finally, our tree of knowledge is a "tree desirable to _make one wise_ ," clearly indicating _wisdom,_ knowledge and understanding coupled together through experience. So to emphasize, the spiritual meaning of _three_ shows us that what begins as a "seed" of knowledge ends and manifests as the "fruit" of a "tree" of wisdom. No wonder Proverbs states, "The _fruit_ of the righteous is _a tree of life_ " (Prov. 11:30; KJV) and "the tongue that brings healing is _a tree of life_ " (Prov. 15:4; NIV).

1. Knowledge (Information)

2. Understanding (Comprehension)

3. Wisdom (Experience of Knowledge and Understanding)

Now, notice that we read, "she took of its _fruit_ and ate." Fruit, when mature or ripe, is ready to eat and also provides more seed for planting. This designates the maturity of our knowledge and understanding which equates to wisdom (Prov. 11:30) and the fact that, once we truly understand something, we are able to pass this knowledge to someone else.

As stated, if Eve was considering a tree of knowledge, then it had to come from a "seed" of knowledge because a seed can only bring forth what it is (Gen. 1:11-12). This brings us to the Parable of the Sower which is presented to us _three_ times in _three_ different gospels, the spiritual meaning of the number evident in its presentation. Let's go to Luke's explanation in Chapter 8.

Luke 8:5-11 (NKJV)

"A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold." When He had said these things He cried, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" Then His disciples asked Him, saying, "What does this parable mean?" And He said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that 'Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.' "Now the parable is this: The **seed** is the word of God."

Mark 4:13-14 (NKJV)

And He said to them, " **Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?** The sower sows the word."

Consider the Lord's statement to His disciples in Mark 4:13. "Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand _all_ the parables?" This reveals the importance of this particular parable and its relationship to all the others which Jesus taught. And why is this one so important? Because it presents _the principle of sowing and reaping_ , a concept that most of us simply take for granted. In this instance, it speaks of the "seed" of knowledge pertaining to the kingdom of God (Luke 8:11; Matt. 13:19) which is sown into the "ground" or the _heart_ of man. However, we should take a moment to consider that _all knowledge_ , whether it relates to the _natural_ or the _spiritual_ , issues from the Creator (Rom. 1:20; Col. 3:16). For this reason, John wrote, "In the beginning _was the Word_ , and the Word was with God, and the Word _was_ God" (John 1:1; KJV).

The Greek definition of "Word" in Luke 8:11 and John 1:1 is _logos_ and means "something _said_ (including the _thought_ )." Isn't what we say an expression of thought? So this agrees with the idea that the head or mind or "thought" is the _authority_ , the _beginning_ and _control_ over all that we do. Information first, which becomes wisdom through experience.

Ephesians 5:23 (NKJV)

For **the husband is head of the wife** , as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.

In I Corinthians, Chapter 11, Paul tells us that "the head of woman is man," however, in this passage, he tells us "the _husband_ is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church." Now he is being more specific, the man or _head_ becoming a _husband_ and a "savior of the body." The idea of a "husband" reveals that a more personal union arises between the man and woman, the male and female.

If we go to the book of Genesis, the book of "origin" or beginning, we find the creation of male and female (Gen. 1:27). In Genesis, Chapter 2, we are given more detail concerning the creation of man from the "dust of the ground" (Gen. 2:7) followed by the creation of woman from the "rib" of man (Gen. 2:21).

Genesis 2:22-25 (KJV)

And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from **man** , made he a **woman** , and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, this is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called _woman_ , because she was taken out of _man_. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his **wife** : and they shall be one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his **wife** , and were not ashamed.

Notice how the creation of woman speaks of "man" and "woman," but once she is brought to the man, we read, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his _wife_ " and in verse 25, we read, "the man and his _wife_." So the woman becomes a _wife_ , again signifying an intimate and personal experience between the two.

1 Corinthians 11:11-12 (NKJV)

Nevertheless, **neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man** , in the Lord. For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God.

In Ephesians, Chapter 5, Paul uses the analogy of husband and wife to describe the relationship of Christ to the church. In verse 31, he quotes from Genesis 2:24 and then follows it with "This is _a great mystery_ , but I speak concerning Christ and the church" (KJV). This shows that the concept of husband and wife set forth from the beginning of our creation is much more than what we may first realize.

The man or husband is head of the woman or wife. Why is this? In our context, it is because _the male is marked as the one who sows seed_. And where is it sown? _It is sown in the womb of the woman_.

When God brought the woman to the man, Adam said, "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh." The bones are the innermost structure of the human form, so they symbolize the "inward man" (Rom. 7:22), the "spiritual body" if you will (I Cor. 15:44). The flesh, which is the outermost part of our physical being, speaks of the "outward" man of the soul (II Cor. 4:16). So, just as we have male and female in the physical realm (human form), we have male and female in the inward or invisible realms (soul and spirit). In Genesis 5:2 we read, "Male and female created He them; and blessed them, and _called their name Adam_ , in the day when they were created" (KJV). So Paul states, "Nevertheless, _neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man_ , in the Lord." In essence, God created and considers both as one.

Let me emphasize—Paul said the man, generally speaking, is head of the woman, generally speaking, husband and wife excluded. Why? Because the woman is bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh; she was taken out of man. So Paul tells us, "For man is not from woman, but woman from man. Nor was man created for woman, but woman for the man" (I Cor. 11:8-9; NKJV). Then, "Nevertheless, neither is man independent (1) of woman, nor woman independent (1) of man, in the Lord. For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God." After the creation of the woman from man, God then set in place the act of marriage or _union_ which results in _the conception and birth of children_. Marriage or union, indicating _the sowing and reaping of seed_ , becomes a principle of human existence.

In Ephesians 5:23, we are told that Christ, like the husband to the wife, is the _head_ of the church and is "the savior of the body." This word "savior" means "a _deliverer_ " and is taken from the word which means "to _save_ , i.e. _deliver_ or _protect_ (literal or figurative)." This again shows that Christ, the Spirit and Word of truth, is the "male" and "husband," the source of the seed or knowledge which is sown into His "female," the "wife" or church. For this reason, Paul states that the church "is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all" (Eph. 1:23; NKJV).

Hosea 4:6 (NKJV)

My people are destroyed for **lack of knowledge**. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.

1 Corinthians 15:34 (NKJV)

Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for **some do not have the knowledge of God**. I speak this to your shame.

So why is the head or mind the "savior" of the body? Because what we know and understand leads to _faith_ , to _what we believe_ , which then determines everything we do. Do you realize that we always operate out of what we believe; that all actions essentially spring from faith? Whether in the natural or spiritual realms of our existence, we act from faith, out of what we believe. Take time to ponder this.

When it comes to the mind and thinking, it always begins with knowledge or information. Note that God spoke through Hosea and said, "My people are destroyed for _lack of knowledge_." He then spoke of His people rejecting knowledge and therefore rejected from being a priest for Him. Paul, in agreement, speaks of some who "do not have the knowledge of God." Now, this is not knowledge _about_ God; rather, _it is knowing what God knows_. God's wisdom is not wisdom _about_ Him, but wisdom _from_ Him. It means to know, understand and experience the truth as He intended. For this reason, James states, "If any of you lack wisdom, _let him ask of God_ , _who gives to all liberally_ and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5; NKJV).

Ephesians 4:23 (KJV)

And **be renewed in the spirit of your mind**...

Romans 12:2 (NKJV)

And do not be conformed to this world, but **be transformed by the renewing of your mind** , that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Because the head is the control over the body, Paul tells us to "be renewed _in the spirit of your mind_ " and to "be transformed by _the renewing of your mind_." In other words, how and what we think must be analyzed and often changed. And why is this? Because how we first think _is in conformity with the world_. _We think on and about the form_. It is taught to us as our priority. So it is certainly beneficial to challenge the status quo and question those things which are handed down to us and which we take for granted, especially in the area of spiritual understanding.

Why is what we think so important? Because, as I mentioned earlier, what we think leads to what we believe or place our faith in. Everything we do is an act of faith or belief. In its most basic form, knowledge is information that once understood and experienced, sets up a structure of belief. I know and understand, therefore I act on what I know and understand.

Genesis 2:9 (KJV)

And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow **every tree** that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

Here we are told that the Lord brought forth out of the ground "every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food." This suggests that there are many sources of knowledge and understanding available, but then we are told that there is a "tree of life" and a "tree of knowledge of good and evil" "in the midst of the garden." They are singled out for our consideration.

Genesis 2:15-17 (NKJV)

Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of **the tree of the knowledge of good and evil** you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die."

It is evident that every tree in the garden was acceptable except for "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil." If Adam chose to eat of this tree, he would "surely die." So what separates this tree from the other trees? We are told "the knowledge of good and evil." As we continue through this study, we will learn why this tree brings death.

Genesis 2:8 (KJV)

And the LORD God **planted a garden eastward in Eden** ; and there he put the man whom he had formed.

Now, let's take a moment to consider what is meant by the "Garden of Eden." The word "eastward" is defined by the Strong's Concordance as "the _front_ , of place (absolute the _fore part_ , relative the _East_ ) or time ( _antiquity_ ); often used adverbially ( _before_ , _anciently_ , _eastward_ )." "East" suggests the sunrise, which is symbolic of the "light" or _righteousness_ and _wisdom_ of our Creator (Psalms 145:17; Gen. 1:3; Matt. 4:16; 5:14-16; John 8:12; II Cor. 4:16). Whenever we speak of "righteousness," we are speaking of _a right relationship to all things visible and invisible_. We should note that in the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, Moses, Aaron and the priests, along with the tribe of Judah, camped on the _east_ side and entrance to this tabernacle was only from this direction. All of this suggests that everything that comes from the "mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4), from His eternal nature and truth, proceeds from and develops a right relationship in all that He has purposed. There are no mistakes in His design and process. It is this which Jesus called the "seed" (Luke 8:11).

The word "Eden" means " _pleasure_."

Matthew 13:19 (NKJV)

When anyone hears the word of the kingdom...

What is the reason for a garden? Is it not for the express purpose of planting seed in order to eventually harvest what has been sown? And isn't this the principle of sowing and reaping? So when we read "the Lord God planted a garden _eastward_ (antiquity; in ancient time) in _Eden_ (pleasure)," are we not seeing a symbolic representation that defines this principle? As our symbols show, this is not a literal garden or seed or trees. Is it possible that the Parable of the Sower actually reflects the true essence of the "Garden of Eden," _the spiritual work of sowing and reaping_ where the "seed" of His living Word is "sown" into the "ground" or "heart" of a human being? Most definitely. Note too that Jesus states at the beginning of the Parable of the Sower, "When anyone hears _the word of the kingdom_." This is not just any knowledge, but knowledge pertaining to and issuing from the kingdom and wisdom of our heavenly Father; from the spiritual realm that relates to our true essence within (Luke 17:21).

Isaiah 46:9-10 (NKJV)

Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, And from **ancient times** (eastward) things that are not yet done, Saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My **pleasure** (Eden)...'

In light of our definition of "eastward," consider these passages. We read "remember the former things of old (such as the story of creation), for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me." He declares "the end from the beginning (what the word _Genesis_ means), and from _ancient times_ (eastward) things that are not yet done, saying, 'My _counsel_ shall stand, and I will do all my _pleasure_ '" (Eden). Doesn't this illuminate our picture of the "Garden of Eden?" Doesn't this suggest that His _counsel_ is the "sowing" of His knowledge and understanding pertaining to the "things that are not yet done" from "ancient times?" And do we not see the "pleasure" of His eternal purpose which lies in the _reaping_ of what He sows?

Genesis 2:8 (KJV)

And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and **there he put the man** whom he had formed.

Once our Creator establishes the principle of sowing and reaping for all creation, He places the "man" whom He has formed into it. This word "man" is all-inclusive, _representative of every person_ who has or ever will exist on this earthly plane. Without exception, all of us move within the universal framework of God's eternal purpose as defined by the "seed," His living word.

Luke 8:15 (NKJV)

But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, **having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience**.

1 Chronicles 29:17-18 (NKJV)

I know also, my God, that **you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness**. As for me, in the uprightness of my heart I have willingly offered all these things; and now with joy I have seen your people, who are present here to offer willingly to you. O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep this forever in the intent of the thoughts of the heart of your people, and fix their heart toward you.

Clearly, the "seed" of the word is "sown" into the "ground" or heart of humankind and further confirmation is found in David's prayer to God. David understood that God tests the heart and has _pleasure_ in uprightness. So we find represented in the "Garden of Eden" (pleasure) the word of the kingdom and the pleasure which our Father derives from our "uprightness" of heart when it has been tested (experienced) and yields the proper "fruit" (Heb. 12:11; I Chron. 29:17-18).

Luke 12:32 (KJV)

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good _pleasure_ to give you the kingdom.

As we can see, there are many "trees" in the garden which are "good for food" and "pleasant to the eyes," sources of knowledge and understanding that produce the "fruit" of God's wisdom in man. But again, we come to the one "tree" and "fruit" that God clearly said would bring death, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. We will examine this further as we consider the rest of our image.

### CHAPTER FOUR

The Wife

Daniel 2:32 (KJV)

... his **breast and his arms of silver**...

Daniel 2:39 (NKJV)

But after you shall arise **another kingdom inferior** to yours...

We have established the "head of gold" as symbolizing the _male_ or _husband_ , the _mind_ or _place of thought_ which begins with _knowledge_ or _information_. But our picture is far from complete. If the head of gold denotes knowledge, then what do the breast and arms of silver signify? I believe it's the heart, the place of _understanding_ and _affection_.

The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines "understand" as: 1) to perceive and comprehend the nature and significance of; grasp, and 2) to know thoroughly by close contact or long experience with. The idea of "grasp" agrees with our "breast and arms," does it not?

Genesis 2:21-22 (NKJV)

And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then **the rib** which the Lord God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.

Where did woman come from? The "rib" of man. Where is the rib? In the _breast_ of man. If we consider this simple concept, then we begin to see that _knowledge_ or thought, the male, being the head, is over and above the heart, or female, being the _understanding_ (Matt. 13:15; John 12:40). After all, we cannot understand if we don't have the knowledge available first. But the man is not without the woman or the woman without the man. In other words, knowledge and understanding work together. And what is it that brings them together? It is _affection_ ; hence the reason that we speak of the heart as the symbol of affection. So let me emphasize; the heart defines _the place of understanding_ , but knowledge and understanding are brought together by affection. For this reason, we see _two_ components; breast and arms.

Affection is most obvious when we embrace someone. Who hasn't gazed upon a mother and her baby, held so firmly in her arms and so closely to her breast, not being moved by what they see? The love between the mother and child is clearly evident.

In agreement with the fact that the head is physically "above" the breast and arms, Daniel tells Nebuchadnezzar, "But after you shall arise another kingdom _inferior_ to yours." But notice what this word "inferior" means. The Strong's Concordance defines it as "the _earth_ ; by implication (figurative) _low_." This agrees with the Lord's teaching in the Parable of the Sower and how the "seed" is "sown" into the "ground" or "earth," symbolizing our hearts (Matt. 13:19; Mark 4:15).

The mind is "male" because it _sows_ the seed of information or knowledge. The heart is "female" because it _receives_ the seed of information or knowledge. Within us, our mind sows thought or knowledge into our heart or understanding. And just like a man and woman when they are attracted to each other, our knowledge and understanding within are drawn to and "embrace" each other out of affection. This happens almost instantaneously. It's been said that we can have approximately 70,000 thoughts in a day. This movement of thought through our being is a miraculous part of our design.

Remember, "God called _their_ name Adam" (Gen. 5:2), meaning male _and_ female, bringing the mind and heart together as _one_ ; the mind _gives_ , the heart _receives_.

The heart is symbolized by the breast and arms of silver. In scripture, silver denotes _redemption_ because it is used as _a means of exchange_.

1 Peter 1:17-19 (NKJV)

And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; knowing that **you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold** , from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

Proverbs 10:20 (NKJV)

The tongue of the righteous is **choice silver** ; the heart of the wicked is worth little.

Proverbs 17:3 (NKJV)

The **refining pot is for silver** and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts.

As our passages indicate, silver (as well as gold), is a medium of exchange, used metaphorically of the redemption of the heart (and gold of the mind). Within, the heart and mind exchange with each other; the mind sowing or giving to the heart and the heart reaping or receiving it; a union of knowledge and understanding takes place.

Notice how silver is placed _before_ the gold in I Peter and Proverbs 17. Why? Because redemption must come from the heart, _the place of understanding_ (Rom. 10:8-10). Knowledge or information alone cannot change or redeem us.

Hebrews 8:10 (KJV)

For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; **I will put my laws into their minds, and write them in their hearts** : and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people...

This passage is part of the _New Covenant_ , the core of Christian belief, reflected in the promise which God made to Abraham so long ago. It is specific, encompassing both male and female, mind and heart, knowledge and understanding. "I will put my laws into their _minds_ ," says the Lord, followed by "and write them in their _hearts_." First the male, then the female. First knowledge, then understanding. Knowledge is "put" into the mind, but _written_ within the heart, indicating action or experience, what we would define as the "work" of the seed or living Word. Once knowledge becomes understanding, faith is formed.

Psalms 66:10 (NKJV)

For You, O God, have tested us; **you have refined us as silver is refined**.

The word "refined" refers to the process that purifies gold and silver, indicating that what's in our mind and heart must be tested so that all contaminants are removed and it becomes pure. This "testing" of knowledge and understanding equates to the experience encountered from the two. Knowledge becomes understanding when our experience with it yields its intended results (which we would define as wisdom, the "fruit" of the tree).

James 1:2-4 (NKJV)

My brethren, **count it all joy when you fall into various trials** , knowing that **the testing of your faith produces patience**. But **let patience have its perfect work** , that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

Remember, what we know and understand leads to what we believe, which is faith, so we are told that when we "fall into various trials (testing)," that we are to "count it all joy." Why? Because the "testing" of our faith "produces patience" and isn't patience required in order to learn? And doesn't learning equate to a period of time in which our knowledge becomes understanding because we "let patience have its perfect work," because we eventually see the end result? There's no better example than the planting of a garden. All of us know that a garden takes time, that there must be patience as we go through the process of "sowing," of the planting, nurturing and caring of the seed and plant until we "reap" the "fullness" of the end result.

James 5:7-8 (NKJV)

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. **See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth** , waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient...

So it is with the will and purpose of our heavenly Father. The fact that God "planted a garden" indicates to you and me that He is indeed patient and within the scope of His immutable principle of sowing and reaping, there is a purpose in mind for each of us. And for each of us, He is willing to wait like a "farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth." And we, like our Creator, must also be patient, understanding that all things are working according to the immutable purpose of His dynamic Word.

Jeremiah 17:9-10 (KJV)

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, **I try (test) the reins** , even to give every man according to his ways, and according to **the fruit of his doings**.

Once our Creator established the platform of sowing and reaping as the means by which His will and purpose are accomplished, He then placed all creation into it (Gen. 2:4 – 8). But as we see, in order for knowledge to become understanding and finally wisdom, it must be tested and proven, the end result made evident. After all, who wants to place their faith in anything that doesn't yield the right results? So as the story of Adam goes, once God placed him in the garden and commanded him to abstain from the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, the serpent enters _to test the Word_ which Adam was given. And who did the serpent come to? Not Adam but Eve, _representative of Adam's heart_ or _place of understanding_ and _affection_.

1 Timothy 2:13-14 (NKJV)

For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but **the woman being deceived, fell into transgression**.

"Adam was not deceived," writes Paul. In other words, Adam had knowledge of what God had commanded. However, "the woman being deceived" tells us that he did not comprehend the nature and significance of what he had been told. As a result, the woman or heart of Adam, "fell into transgression" (Jer. 17:9). Once again, this signifies that _understanding comes through experience_ , often in the form of _suffering_. Furthermore, we can derive from this that _all of this was purposed by our Creator_ , for again, what good is knowledge if it is not tested and proven?

Psalms 12:6 (NKJV)

The words of the Lord are pure words, **like silver tried** (tested) **in a furnace of earth** , purified seven times.

Romans 3:4 (NKJV)

... Indeed, **let God be true, but** every man a liar.

First knowledge, then understanding. And how is it that we come to understand? "Like silver tried (tested; refined) in a furnace of earth" (our heart). No wonder the Lord's disciples said, "Did not _our heart burn within us_ , while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures" (Luke 24:32; KJV)? Only through experience do we discover "the words of the Lord" are "pure words," "purified _seven_ times," denoting the _fullness_ of the truth as it comes from our Maker. The Lord does not require our faith to be in anything less than that which is pure, that which is solid and substantial. If it truly is His Divine Word, it will withstand all of our scrutiny, skepticism, doubt, and resistance. And the greatest evidence of truth is always experienced within, where the testing of our knowledge causes all of our perceptions to dissolve in the pure light of His eternal wisdom.

Matthew 12:34-35 (NKJV)

Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? **For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks**. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.

Matthew 6:21 (KJV)

For where your treasure is, **there will your heart be** also.

Matthew 15:18 (KJV)

But those things which proceed out of the mouth **come forth from the heart** ; and they defile the man.

In our analogy of husband and wife, we find that the mind sows its seed of thought or information into the heart or understanding before it is eventually realized as words that "come forth from the heart." In agreement, Jesus taught that we speak "out of the abundance of the heart," out of what we understand and have great affection for.

Proverbs 23:7 (NKJV)

For as he **thinks** (male) in his **heart** (female), so is he.

The breast and arms of silver are the _second_ component. Man began as one, then the rib was taken, made into a female, and brought to him. Now man has become _two_. Consider Bullinger's explanation once again of the spiritual meaning of _two_.

We now come to the spiritual significance of the number Two. We have seen that One excludes all difference, and denotes that which is sovereign. But Two affirms that there is a difference—there is _another_ ; while One affirms that there is not another!

This _difference_ may be for good or for evil. A thing may differ from evil, and be good; or it may differ from good, and be evil. Hence, the number Two takes a two-fold coloring, according to the context.

It is the first number by which we can _divide_ another, and therefore in all its uses we may trace this fundamental idea of _division_ or _difference_.

The _two_ may be, though different in character, yet one as to testimony and friendship. The Second that comes in may be for help and deliverance. But, alas! Where man is concerned, this number testifies of his fall, for it more often denotes that difference which implies _opposition_ , _enmity_ , and _oppression_.

Two denotes _division_ or _witness_. For this reason, we read, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be _joined_ to his wife, and they shall become _one_ flesh" (Gen. 2:24; NKJV). Remember that Paul said, "Nevertheless, _neither is man independent_ of woman, nor _woman independent of man_ , in the Lord." Within, the mind and heart communicate, working with or against each other. So we have both _division_ and _witness_ at any point and time.

Matthew 15:8 (NKJV)

'These people **draw near to me with their mouth** , and honor me with their lips, but **their heart is far from me**.'

Matthew 12:36-37 (NKJV)

"But I say to you that for every **idle** word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For **by your words** you will be justified, and **by your word** s you will be condemned."

Just as a husband and wife don't always agree, our mind and heart are not always together. The knowledge and understanding are there, but there is no affection or passion. In order for our words to be effective, knowledge and understanding must join out of affection (II Thess. 2:10). I believe this is what is meant by "every idle word." Idle means " _inactive_ , i.e. _unemployed_ ; (by implication) _lazy_ , _useless_." When there is no passion between our knowledge and understanding, then our words are "inactive." There is no power or presence behind what we say. For this reason we read, "Death and life are in the _power_ of the tongue, and _those who love it_ (either death or life) will eat its fruit" (Prov. 18:21). You see, there must be a love or passion behind what we say, otherwise it is idle chatter. The _power_ of our words lies in the _passion_ of our hearts.

Genesis 2:18 (NKJV)

And the Lord God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; **I will make him a helper comparable to him**."

As we see, there is much more to consider about the male and female, man and woman, husband and wife. When the mind or thought is not drawn to the heart or understanding with affection, it is useless. We are not always moved by affection to say or accomplish those things we set out to do. "It is not good that man should be alone," and it is not good when a person works from thinking apart from understanding and affection. The passion necessary to invoke courage, strength and energy must come from a love for knowledge, especially the truth as it pertains to our inner essence. No wonder Proverbs tells us, "Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding" (Prov. 4:7; NKJV). But remember that "the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked" (Jer. 17:9; KJV), so we must come to realize that our lack of understanding often leads to suffering, even as Adam's choice was not fully realized until he had eaten from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. But this too was purposed by our Creator, for it is evident in our present reality that our experience is often tempered with suffering. The story of Adam and Eve is not a story of how many failed God, but a process of intelligent design which incorporates the suffering necessary for us to realize the truth.

The word "helper" in the New King James version is the phrase "help meet" in the King James. The Strong's definition is " _aid_ ," taken from the word which means "to _surround_ , i.e. _protect_ or _aid_." Though it is true that the man is head of the woman, he is much stronger and more capable when the woman stands as a testimony or witness with him. So it is with the mind. Much more is accomplished when the affection between the mind and heart are realized and wisdom is fully formed. This is true passion, a union of male and female that sets in motion a result that otherwise will not be.

As we mentioned earlier concerning the tree of knowledge, the second component of this tree was "pleasant to the eyes." What begins as a seed of knowledge in the mind must become understanding in the heart. The "eyes" of our understanding must become "enlightened" that we may truly "know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints" (Eph. 1:18). In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus said we understand with our heart (Matt. 13:15). This is the "aid" of the female or wife, the "heart" of our being.

Genesis 3:16 (NKJV)

To the woman He said: " **I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception** ; in pain

you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you."

In confirmation, we are told that the woman's "desire shall be for your husband," illustrating to us how the heart is drawn to the mind, the understanding drawn to knowledge. "I will greatly multiply your _sorrow_ and your conception; in _pain_ you shall bring forth children." This reference to "sorrow" and "pain" shows us once more that _suffering is often a necessary component to gain experience_ , especially in the area of spiritual enlightenment and change. "And he shall rule over you." Once understanding is realized and wisdom formed, the mind takes over and thought becomes the means by which we function. In other words, the mind or male or husband is again the "head" over the heart or female or wife, but it is the coming together of the two, of the knowledge and understanding through affection that eventually leads to the wisdom which we embrace.

The fruit of the tree of knowledge was "good for food" and "pleasant to the eyes," but it is _one_ fruit. In the same way, male and female, husband and wife, knowledge and understanding, come together as _one_ within us through the affection that works between them.

Colossians 3:2 (KJV)

**Set your affection** on things above, not on things on the earth.

No doubt "things above" refers to the spiritual principles of the kingdom of God, where the knowledge, understanding, and wisdom of the Father are seen in Christ. Remember, Christ means "anointed" and speaks of the Word or _wisdom_ of our Creator, and the _Spirit_ of that Word, _which is the essence of His divine love_. When our desires turn in this direction, something amazing happens.

### CHAPTER FIVE

The Firstborn Child

Daniel 2:32 (KJV)

... his **belly and his thighs of brass**...

Daniel 2:39 (KJV)

... and another **third kingdom of brass** , which shall bear rule over all the earth.

We have seen that the head of gold symbolizes the mind, the male, the husband, that which sows its seed of knowledge into the breast and arms of silver, the heart, the female, the wife or understanding. Knowledge and understanding come together out of affection. This brings us to the _third_ kingdom, the belly and thighs of brass. At this point, it becomes important to revisit the spiritual meaning of the number _three_.

Mark 4:26-29 (NKJV)

And He said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: **first the blade** (1), **then the head** (2), after that **the full grain in the head** ( **3** ). But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come."

"The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground." So again we are speaking of the "seed" of the Word or wisdom of God. He then speaks of the earth, which "yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head." Note that there are _three_ stages that lead to the "full" or ripened grain which is ready for harvest. Consider our illustration from the previous page.

1. First the Blade

2. Then the Head

3. After That the Full Grain in the Head

The "work" (3) of a seed is complete when the grain or "fruit" appears and is ready for harvest. Notice how I inserted the number _seven_ between the "blade" and "the full grain in the head." Within the _three_ or "work" of the plant is seen the _seven_ or process of _the maturation of the plant_. Add the _three_ and _seven_ together, we have _ten_ , which means "a complete cycle," indicating that "nothing is wanting" (lacking) (Bullinger). The _work_ (3) of the plant is _complete_ (7). We are now able to use the "full grain" for food and the seed for further planting. This is _exponential_ , because we began with _one_ seed and ended with _many_. This also shows that _ten_ , meaning "a complete cycle," also represents "harvest" (reaping), which follows the cycle of sowing.

Let's look at another important example in the book of Genesis that confirms the spiritual meaning of the number _three_.

Genesis 1:9-13 (NKJV)

Then God said, "Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear"; and it was so. And God called the dry land Earth, and the gathering together of the waters He called Seas. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, " **Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth** "; and it was so. **And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind**. And God saw that it was good. So the evening and the morning were the **third** day.

Here we see the _third day_ of creation and the gathering of the waters together into "seas" and the "dry land" appears and "God called the dry land earth." After the separation of the waters from the earth, we read, "Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth." So why is this written? Is it because on the _third_ day of creation, the wisdom of God is emphasizing the spiritual meaning of _three_ , our principle of _sowing and reaping_ , of _seed time_ and _harvest_ , giving us an understanding of that which defines the "work" of the seed in both the natural and spiritual realms? To be clear, sowing and reaping _is_ the "work" which we are defining, _the universal structure of all things that exist, both visible and invisible_. Take time to think about this. Without the natural principle of sowing and reaping, there would be no propagation of any species; plant, insect, animal or human. Without the spiritual principle of sowing and reaping, there would be no propagation of knowledge, human or divine. _Sowing and reaping is the core essence of all that exists because everything as we know it begins with a seed_. One of the definitions at Dictionary.com defines "seed" as "the germ or propagative source of anything." Is it simply coincidence then that the Bible begins with the book of Genesis which means, "an origin, creation, or beginning" (Dictionary.com)?

Revelation 1:4 (KJV)  
John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace _be_ unto you, and peace, from him **which is** (1), and **which was** (2), and **which is to come** (3); and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne...

When we consider this passage from Revelation, we find the phrase "which is, and which was, and which is to come." This defines our Creator's relation to eternity; past, present, and future, and shows that His seed or Word has been present in all the activities of creation from the beginning of time. The seed "which is" becomes the seed "which was," perishing while yet releasing the essence of itself "which is to come," to eventually be realized in the fullness of its fruit. Rest assured my friend, there is a divine purpose at work that is truly wondrous in its design.

Matthew 28:19 (NKJV)  
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father (1) and of the Son (2) and of the Holy Spirit (3)...

This passage speaks of what we know as the Trinity; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Here we find _divine completeness_ and _perfection_ , for there is nothing visible or invisible outside the scope of these three. What began in seed form from the Father is destined to find its fullness in the divine presence of the Holy Spirit.

John wrote "God is love" (I John 4:8, 16), and what greater example of love can we find than that of a father, mother, and child?

Once more, here's Bullinger's explanation of _three_ from Number in Scripture.

In this number we have quite a new set of phenomena. We come to the first geometrical figure. Two straight lines cannot possibly enclose any space, or form a plane figure; neither can two plan surfaces form a solid. _Three_ lines are necessary to form a plan figure; and three dimensions of length, breadth, and height, are necessary to form a solid. Hence _three_ is the symbol of the cube--the simplest form of solid figure. As two is the symbol of the square, or plane contents (x2), so three is the symbol of the cube, or solid contents (x3).

_Three_ , therefore, stands for that which is _solid_ , _real_ , _substantial_ , _complete_ , and _entire_.

All things that are specially complete are stamped with this number three.

God's attributes are _three_ : omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.

There are three great divisions completing time— _past_ , _present_ , and _future_.

Three persons, in grammar, express and include all the relationships of mankind.

Thought, word, and deed, complete the sum of human capability.

Three degrees of comparison complete our knowledge of qualities.

The simplest proposition requires three things to complete it; viz., the _subject_ , the _predicate_ , and the _copula_.

Three propositions are necessary to complete the simplest form of argument--the _major premiss_ , the _minor_ , and the _conclusion_.

Three kingdoms embrace our ideas of matter— _mineral_ , _vegetable_ , and _animal_.

When we turn to the Scriptures, this completion becomes _Divine_ , and marks Divine completeness or perfection.

_Three_ is the first of four perfect numbers (see p. 23).

_Three_ denotes _divine_ perfection;

_Seven_ denotes _spiritual_ perfection;

_Ten_ denotes _ordinal_ perfection; and

_Twelve_ denotes _governmental_ perfection.

Hence the number _three_ points us to what is real, essential, perfect, substantial, complete, and divine. There is nothing real in man or of man. Everything "under the sun" and apart from God is "vanity." "Every man at his best estate is altogether vanity" (Psa 139:5,11, 62:9, 144:4; Eccl 1:2,4, 2:11,17,26, 3:19, 4:4, 11:8, 12:8; Rom 8:20).

Three "marks Divine completeness or perfection." When the man and woman, husband and wife, come together in union, the seed is sown and received and _conception_ takes place, a "child" begins to form and will soon be birthed from the womb of the woman.

Genesis 3:16 (NKJV)

To the woman He said: "I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain **you shall bring forth children** ; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you."

What did our Creator say to the woman? Clearly, it involved the act of "conception" and the bringing forth of "children." In other words, God was specific about the concept of sowing and reaping. And what did Daniel tell Nebuchadnezzar about this "third" kingdom? Didn't he say that it "shall _bear rule_ over all the earth?" This confirms that the principles of sowing and reaping are indeed universal in their scope and perfect in their execution in the natural and spiritual realms of our existence. Through this principle, every generation has sprung out of the generation which came before.

The physical act of reproduction _is_ sowing and reaping on a physical plane and a perfect picture of what happens within. The knowledge of the mind desires understanding while understanding desires knowledge. The two come together and as a result, a child is conceived and forms over a period of approximately _nine_ months. In the natural, once a child is born, it carries the physical characteristics of both father and mother, but the fact is, it is a "new creation," unique in itself though an extension of father and mother. In the same fashion, our "inner child" is formed from thought and comprehension, knowledge and understanding, not one or the other, _but both_ , becoming _a unique form of wisdom from out of our own being_. For this reason, we see the _third_ segment of Nebuchadnezzar's image as the "belly" or _womb_ and the "thighs" or _penis_ , both reproductive organs represented. Here we see why three denotes our "work." The act of union takes place between father and mother (1 + 1 = 2), and a child is conceived and born (2 + 1 = 3), all three realized in the "work" of sowing and reaping, the seed sown and reaped. This agrees with the Lord's description in Mark, Chapter 4, the "full grain in the head" or "fruit" corresponding to the child born of male and female.

As mentioned, there are _nine_ months between conception and birth, so consider Bullinger's explanation of the spiritual meaning of _nine_.

The number _nine_ is a most remarkable number in many respects. It is held in great reverence by all who study the occult sciences; and in mathematical science it possesses properties and powers which are found in no other number. *

*Among others may be mentioned (1) that the sum of the digits which form its multiples are themselves always a multiple of nine; e.g., 2 x 9 = 18 (and 1+8=9); 3 x 9 = 27 (and 2+7=9); 4 x 9 = 36 (and 3+6=9); 5 x 9 = 45 (and 4+5=9), etc., etc.; and so with the larger numbers: 52843 x 9 = 475587 (and 4+7+5+5+8+7=36, and 3+6=9). (2) The sum of its multiples through the nine digits = 405, or 9 times 45.

It is the _last_ of the digits, and thus marks the _end_ ; and is significant of the _conclusion_ of a matter.

It is akin to the number _six_ , six being the sum of its factors (3x3=9, and 3+3=6), and is thus significant of the _end of man_ , and the summation of all man's works. _Nine_ is, therefore, _the number of finality or judgment_ , for judgment is committed unto Jesus as "the Son of man" (John 5:27; Acts 17:31). It marks the completeness, the end and issue of all things as to man — the judgment of man and all his works.

Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV)  
But **the fruit of the Spirit** is love (1), joy (2), peace (3), longsuffering (4), kindness (5), goodness (6), faithfulness (7), gentleness (8), self-control (9). Against such there is no law.

Nine is three _times_ three and _times_ (x) always denotes an _exponential increase_. Would this indicate the "work" (3) of sowing and reaping as it relates to both male (3) and female (3)? Is it just coincidence that Paul mentions "the fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians and concludes his thought with _nine_ attributes?

Now, let's take a moment to consider the number _eight_. Bullinger tells us that _eight_ denotes a "new beginning." This agrees with the _conception_ of the child. A new beginning (8) takes place the moment that the seed is accepted in the womb. But remember, there is a _nine month gestation period_ where the child fully forms so that it can enter into the world. At approximately _nine_ months, the "fruit" of the womb comes forth. For this reason, it is _nine_ that speaks of "finality," and "the conclusion of a matter." The _new beginning_ (8) is fully realized when _the child appears_ (9).

So let's bring this back to the mind and heart, the knowledge and understanding. According to science, there are approximately 200 to 500 million sperm injected into the female in the physical act of intercourse. It is a scientific fact that only one or perhaps two, ever make it into the egg to cause fertilization or pregnancy. _New research indicates that the egg in the woman decides which sperm gets to enter and fertilize it_. In comparison, we have countless thoughts throughout the day, but only those which truly take hold in the heart are ever realized in "conception," to eventually manifest or "birth." This "birth" would equate to the _third_ element of the tree of knowledge, which would be _wisdom_ (a tree desirable to make one wise), from which our deeds or actions proceed.

In our description so far, we have considered the elements of male or husband, female or wife, and now, the child. An important consideration is in _the act of union_ itself.

Genesis 4:1 (NKJV)

Now Adam **knew** Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain...

Look at how sexual intercourse is described in this verse. "Adam _knew_ Eve his wife." The Hebrew definition of this word from the Strong's Concordance means "to _know_ (properly to ascertain by _seeing_ ); used in a great variety of senses, figurative, literal, euphemism and inference (including _observation_ , _care_ , _recognition_ ; and causative _instruction_ , _designation_ , _punishment_ , etc.)." The Hebrew word for "knew" in this passage is the same word used in Genesis 3:5 where the serpent said to Eve, "And ye shall be as gods, _knowing_ good and evil" (KJV). In this we see that the physical act of sexual intercourse is likened to "knowing" and agrees with our illustration of knowledge and understanding coming together.

While the "belly" of Nebuchadnezzar's image signifies the "womb" of the female, it also represents the "appetite" or _desires_ of our human existence (Phil. 3:19). The _third_ element of the tree of knowledge agrees, being a tree " _desired_ to make one wise" (Gen. 3:6; KJV). This confirms the affection or desire between knowledge and understanding.

No doubt the sexual impulse is the strongest desire in humankind as well as in all kingdoms. In contrast, humankind's thirst for knowledge and understanding is obvious and parallels this desire. Isn't it also true that in order for a man and a woman to have intercourse, they are usually _naked_ (Gen. 2:25)? This implies an intimacy between male and female, husband and wife, _which is exclusive of all others_ and _intensely personal_. Would this be why we read, "And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed" (Gen. 2:25; KJV)? And isn't this true concerning the movement of thought within our being? No one outside of us knows what we are thinking unless we express it through our words or actions. Furthermore, isn't the sexual act a period of time where desire leads to union and the possible conception of a child? So it is with knowledge and understanding. The desire between man and woman reflects the desire between our knowledge and understanding within. This is an innate part of us the moment that we come into the world as infants.

So again, "Adam _knew_ Eve his wife." This "knowing" is reflected in every aspect of the sexual act. Within us, the desire that draws knowledge and understanding together correlates with it. The physical act of union reflects the "experience" between our knowledge and understanding which leads to the conception and birth of children, which symbolizes our wisdom. Our wisdom _is_ the inward children or "fruit," the evidence of our union of knowledge and understanding within which is eventually manifested outwardly as a deed or action (work). This brings us to the understanding of the element of _brass_.

Daniel 2:32 (KJV)

... his **belly and his thighs of brass**...

Daniel 2:39 (KJV)

... and another **third kingdom of brass** , which shall bear rule over all the earth.

Just as a child is the result of both male and female, brass is an alloy of copper _and_ zinc, a mixture of _two_ elements. And what do we see in the tree of knowledge? Like the two elements of copper and zinc, we see a combination of good _and_ evil.

In the Bible, _brass_ symbolizes _judgment_ (Rev. 1:15), agreeing with the spiritual meaning of the number _nine_. An example is the altar of burnt offering (Exod. 27:2) found in the Tabernacle of Moses, where sacrifices were made for the _judgment_ of sin. This altar, along with all of its utensils, were made of _brass_ (Exod. 27:3). Immediately following was a _brass_ laver (bowl) with water in it (Exod. 30:18), representing the "washing of water by the Word" as Paul describes in Ephesians 5:26.

Deuteronomy 28:23 (KJV)

And thy heaven that is over thy head **shall be brass** , and the earth that is under thee shall be iron.

When Moses spoke to Israel before their entrance into the land of Canaan, he made it clear that their disobedience to the Lord would cause "thy heaven that is over thy head" to be "brass." As the context implies, this indicates judgment.

Ezekiel 22:19-21 (NKJV)

Therefore thus says the Lord God: 'Because you have all become dross, therefore behold, I will gather you into the midst of Jerusalem. **As men gather silver, bronze (brass; KJV), iron, lead, and tin, into the midst of a furnace, to blow fire on it, to melt it; so I will gather you in my anger and in my fury, and I will leave you there and melt you**. Yes, I will gather you, and blow on you with the fire of my wrath, and you shall be melted in its midst.

Revelation 1:15 (NKJV)

His feet were like **fine brass** , as if **refined in a furnace**...

As shown, our three components of gold, silver, and _brass_ are "refined" through the necessary "fire" of judgment. The Strong's Concordance defines "refined" as "from G4442 (pur); to _kindle_ , i.e. (passive) to _be ignited, glow_ (literal), _be refined_." G4442 is the Greek word for "fire" (Strong's).

Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)

For the word of God is quick, and powerful... **and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents** of the heart.

As indicated, the living Word discerns or "judges" (9) the "thoughts (male) and intents (female) of the heart." Our wisdom, whether natural or spiritual, is continually judged by the ultimate wisdom of the One who gave it being.

Romans 2:6 (NIV)

God " **will give to each person according to what he has done**."

Psalms 62:11-12 (NKJV)

God has spoken once, twice I have heard this: That power belongs to God. Also to You, O Lord, belongs mercy; **for you render to each one according to his work**.

Proverbs 24:12 (NKJV)

If you say, "Surely we did not know this," Does not He who weighs the hearts consider it?

He who keeps your soul, does He not know it? **And will He not render to each man according to his deeds**?

It is clear that our heavenly Father knows what's in our mind and heart (exposed; naked) and will "render to each one according to his work" (3). What does it mean to "render?" It means to "return," in other words, we "reap" what we sow. So the idea of judgment as indicated by the brass, is an integral part of the principle of sowing and reaping. In a manner of speaking, God need not judge us for the deeds done out of our wisdom because this law, in essence, contains the principle that we reap the consequences of our actions. With this in mind, let's consider a parable which Jesus taught which immediately follows the Parable of the Sower in Matthew, Chapter 13.

Matthew 13:24-30 (NKJV)

Another parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way. But when the grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. So the servants of the owner came and said to him, 'Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?' He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' The servants said to him, 'Do you want us then to go and gather them up?' But he said, 'No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, "First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn."'"

In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus taught that "the seed is the Word of God" which is "sown" or planted in the ground or "heart" of man, in other words, the Word of truth as given by the Spirit of God (truth) through whatever means He deems appropriate. This seed is a form of dynamic information relevant to our inner being and so can be processed by the mind and heart to eventually become the wisdom that is needed.

Having defined the seed as the Word of truth, Christ follows the Parable of the Sower with the Parable of the Wheat and Tares. "The kingdom of heaven (spiritual realm) is like a man who sowed good seed in his field." What is this "good seed?" Would it still represent the Word of God as it did in the Parable of the Sower? Also consider that when the Lord begins to explain this parable, He tells us that " _The field is the world_ " (Matt. 13:38), in other words, the minds and hearts of humankind everywhere. This agrees with the Parable of the Sower, because in it we are given _four_ types of ground to consider and _four_ is the "world" number (Bullinger). Now, look at the Lord's explanation of the Parable of the Wheat and Tares.

Matthew 13:37-43 (NKJV)

He answered and said to them: "He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. **The field is the world** , the good seeds are the **sons** (children; KJV) of the kingdom, but the tares are the **sons** (children; KJV) of the wicked one. The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. Therefore, as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

"Tares" are weeds resembling wheat in appearance but with no nutritional value, poisonous to man and herbivorous animals (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words). Jesus tells us, "The good seeds are the sons (children; KJV) of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons (children; KJV) of the wicked one." In light of the Parable of the Sower, perhaps Christ does not speak of people, but rather on what's been formed inside of us; the "wisdom" or "children" of the knowledge and understanding of the mind and heart. According to this parable, once the mind and heart have conceived and birthed the "children" of knowledge and understanding, they are judged (9), as reflected in the nine month gestation period in the womb. Once this "judgment" or determination is complete, the resulting "fruit" or "child" is harvested or "reaped" accordingly (10), because _harvest_ or _separation_ is clearly a necessary segment of sowing and reaping (Matt. 13:24-30, 37-43). So in this parable, we see the thoughts of "lawlessness" and those "things that offend" _gathered out_ of His kingdom and cast "into the furnace of fire" (Matt. 13:42; NKJV), the purification necessary to show that this wisdom is in direct opposition to the principles of the kingdom of God. This is why the brass is seen in the belly and thighs and denotes how each one of us is rendered according to our "work." This does not, of course excuse us from the outward effects of this process, for the impact of our knowledge, understanding, and wisdom are certainly manifested in the world of form and is reflected in the phrase, "those who practice lawlessness." Who we are and what we do out of our wisdom is evident on a daily basis. So the suffering that we often experience in our lives correlates with those things we think and believe on the inside.

At this point, let me emphasize the meaning of judgment. One of the words used in Greek is _krisis_ and means " _decision_ (subject or object, for or against); by extension a _tribunal_ ; by implication _justice_ (specially divine law)." Judgment means _to make a determination or decision about something based upon a certain standard_. When we judge, we distinguish whether something is good or bad according to this standard. Once this determination is made, we follow with a decision as to what should be done. Judgment is built into the principle of sowing and reaping, so too its results. Both are encapsulated and defined by the living truth or wisdom of our Divine Source. He who sows to his flesh will of the flesh _reap corruption_. He who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit _reap everlasting life_ (Gal. 6:8).

Jesus taught, "Judge not, that you be not judged" (Matt. 7:1; NKJV), but He went on to say, "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment" (Matt. 7:24; NKJV). This tells us that it is not the act of judgment itself that is the problem, but the _spirit_ and _perception_ out of which we judge. Righteous judgment must proceed out of _selflessness_ and be free of any bias, based out of reality and not supposition.

God is love (I John 4:8), not _does_ love, but _is_ love, the very essence of love in its purest form thus His judgment always proceeds out of love for His creation. It will not be otherwise. God, as the Father of our spirits (Heb. 12:9), _is obligated to judge us and does so through the principle of sowing and reaping as we are seeing._ By means of this divine principle, our thoughts and intents are repeatedly tested by the "fire" or "light" of His Wisdom in all things. And to do anything less would be to make Him less than God and less than the purest of love. He cannot, nor does He leave us alone for even a moment, "For in Him we live and move and have our being... for we are also His offspring" (Acts 17:28; NKJV). And what tests us? Again, it is the "light" or "fire" of the wisdom of His dynamic Word, the principles of His righteous nature.

Galatians 6:7-10 (NKJV)

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for **whatever a man sows, that he will also reap**.

**For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life**. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for **in due season we shall reap** if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, **let us do good to all** , especially to those who are of the household of faith.

These passages are the core of our study, presenting the principle of sowing and reaping. For the sake of illustration, consider one thought. First, our mind desires to plant this thought into the heart, male to female, wanting understanding to join with it. The heart then determines if this thought will be allowed to enter and fertilize the egg (affection). Once the heart allows this thought to enter, and a union takes place, a "child" is conceived. Knowledge and understanding, drawn together by desire, form the "wisdom" which ultimately determines our deeds or actions (remember, a child is an extension of mother and father); one thought, concept, or idea, which eventually concludes in manifestation. But keep in mind that one seed does not produce just one fruit. It is exponential. Therefore, the "inner child" formed in our being consists of much "fruit" and thus many more "seeds" to follow. The fruit, along with its seed, speaks of the manifestation or collective wisdom and end result of the seed which began the process.

Matthew 5:27-28 (NKJV)

"You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that **whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.**

How many thoughts do we have that are never known by anyone around us? But, as Jesus taught, _an act can take place inwardly without ever being performed outwardly_. The decisive factor is the desire involved. The stronger the desire, the more likely it is to be conceived, formed and birthed as an action, even inwardly where no one but our heavenly Father sees it. Though it may never be known by others, it happens within. This is the power of our imagination.

Hebrews 4:12-13 (NKJV)

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but **all things are naked and open** to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.

Just as three signifies the "work" of the mind and heart together in desire producing the wisdom which is manifested in our lives, it also shows the "work" of the living Word of our Father of spirits which discerns these thoughts, intents, and desires. "No creature" is "hidden from His sight." No wonder Jesus taught that our Father "sees in secret" (Matt. 6:4; NKJV) and "there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known" (Matt. 10:26; NKJV). All things in the realm of spirit are known by our Creator, for "God is spirit" (John 4:24; NIV).

In Genesis 2:25 we read, "And they were both _naked_ , the man and his wife, and were not ashamed." As we have said, _naked_ implies intimacy and union, _a knowing of one another that supersedes all others_. And so goes the work of our mind and heart. Like a husband and wife, they are together within, our mind and heart exposed to each other and both "naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account" (Rev. 5:6).

In the _three_ is seen the "work" of the mind and heart and in the _nine_ the "conclusion" and "judgment" of that work. This adds up to _twelve_. Consider Bullinger's explanation of this number.

Twelve is a perfect number, signifying _perfection of government_ , or of _governmental perfection_. It is found as a multiple in all that has to do with _rule_. The sun, which "rules" the day, and the moon and stars which "govern" the night, do so by their passage through the _twelve_ signs of the Zodiac which completes the great circle of the heavens of 360 (12 x 30) degrees or divisions, and thus govern the year.

_Twelve_ is the _product_ of 3 (the perfectly Divine and heavenly number) and 4 (the earthly, the number of what is material and organic).

While _seven_ is composed of 3 _added_ to 4, _twelve_ is 3 _multiplied_ by 4, and hence denotes that which can scarcely be explained in words, but which the spiritual perception can at once appreciate, viz., _organization_ , the products denoting production and multiplication and increase of all that is contained in the two numbers separately. The 4 is generally prominently seen in the _twelve_.

The number _twelve_ is used 187 times in the Bible, 22 of these in the book of the Revelation, and can be seen as God's _perfect, divine accomplishment actively manifested_ , revealing to us _a completeness of administration_ or _rule_ as evidenced by the _twelve_ tribes of Israel. And how is it that God's divine rule is accomplished? Through the principle of sowing and reaping. God's kingdom, His rule and government, are actively manifested at all times in humankind via this principle. In this dynamic concept is contained all that is necessary for our natural and spiritual development.

"In the beginning was the Word... and the Word _was_ God" (John 1:1; KJV). Note that it is the living Word (Christ; the _seed_ ; Gal. 3:16) which is the authority over all things visible and invisible, so on the first day of the six days of creation, the first thing God spoke was, "'Let there be light;' and there was light" (Gen. 1:3; KJV). He didn't create light, He simply said, "Let there be," for "God _is_ light and in Him is no darkness at all" (I John 1:5; NKJV). And "God called the light Day" (Gen. 1:5; KJV). Jesus said, "Are there not _twelve_ hours in the day" (John 11:9)? And just as the natural sun is a sphere of "fire" and _all light is fire_ so Hebrews states that "our God is _a consuming fire_ " (Heb. 12:29; NKJV). So the "fire" in which our thoughts and deeds of iniquity (lawlessness) are cast indicates the judgment (sowing and reaping) of the divine intensity of the living truth as it is with our Creator. The "light" of "day" _is_ His living and eternal Word, signified by the "twelve hours" of the "day" of which Jesus spoke _, the divine government of His Word or wisdom_ in all the affairs of humankind. The Word of God, which _is_ God, takes precedence over every thought, intent, and deed of every person on this planet. Remember our hierarchy; God, Christ (the Spirit and Word), man, woman. No wonder God chose _twelve_ sons of Israel and Jesus _twelve_ disciples, confirming that the "light" or "day" of God's wisdom was evident in this choosing. Consider how the following passages are annotated.

Proverbs 8:22-23 (NIV)

"The LORD **brought me forth as the first of his works** , [2] (Or way; or dominion; or the LORD possessed me at the beginning of his work; or the LORD brought me forth at the beginning of his work) before his deeds of old; I was appointed from eternity, from the beginning, **before the world began**.

The "me" in Proverbs 8:22 speaks of the _wisdom_ of God (Prov. 8:12), the "first of His works," the "light" of "day" that God said "let there be" from the very beginning. "Before the world began," God's wisdom was "appointed" and established as the "light" of all creation (John 1:3, 9).

James 1:5 (NKJV)

**If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God** , who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

All wisdom, _natural_ and _spiritual_ , begins with our Creator, and it is by means of sowing and reaping that it finds its way into this physical plane in which we exist. Just as the natural world of form moves and evolves from one generation to the next by means of this principle, so does the spiritual realm of the formless, the invisible essence of knowledge and understanding (Matt. 1:1; Isa. 55:11). James tells us that if we lack wisdom that we should "ask of God," and He "gives to all liberally and without reproach." Our desire to know and understand the seemingly endless mysteries of our existence is an inward spiritual urge whether we realize it or not. Since all wisdom comes from a much greater source of intelligence, our desire for any wisdom is always a motion in the direction of the Source from which we were derived.

So again, let's consider the physical act of reproduction. The male or husband sows seed into the female or wife. Once the egg is fertilized, a child begins to form. Up until this time it has been about the male and female, the husband and wife. Now, however, it's no longer husband and wife, but _mother_ and _father_. The child in the womb begins to receive a lot of attention. As time goes on and the child develops, more attention is given by the mother, father, family and friends. Plans are made in preparation of the birth of the child. Finally, the day arrives and the child is born. Over this period of time, many are drawn into the process. The child has become the focal point of everyone's attention.

Once the child is born, things change for the husband and wife. Now, there is _a new life_ evident in the home. The child is fragile and helpless, in need of constant attention and its needs must be tended to. Under normal circumstances and from this point forward, all of the decisions of the father and mother now include the child.

And so goes the conception and formation of our wisdom within. Once the desires of the mind and heart give form to our wisdom, it takes precedence over everything else, so much so that our family, friends and society are affected by it. Our actions change to align with the child and the child's needs become more important than our own. _It is all about the child now_.

So what does the child symbolize? We have already said that it represents the wisdom that ultimately leads to action, but to be more specific, in the natural plane of our existence, it speaks _of the collective structure of our knowledge and understanding through our experience in the world of form_ , what many spiritual teachers today might call the _ego_ and what I believe the Bible calls our _soul_ or _self_ (Gen. 2:7; Matt. 16:24-27; Mark 8:34-38).

The inward "child" formed by our knowledge and understanding, is an _extension_ of our mind and heart which is fashioned by our experience of the external world as we come to know it within, therefore it becomes what we know _as us_ , the mind-made _self_ by which we know and are known by others. Through the inner process of sowing and reaping, the union of knowledge and understanding via experience, we eventually form or "birth" a "being," more specifically a "state of being," a _present existence_ within the construct of our thoughts. In scripture, this "inner self" is symbolized and illustrated by Cain, the _firstborn child_ of Adam and Eve (Gen. 4:1).

1 Corinthians 15:44 (NKJV)

There is **a natural body** , and there is **a spiritual body**.

Here Paul tells us "there is a natural body" and a "spiritual body." But what does he mean by "a natural body?" Is he speaking of just the physical form? I don't believe so. Remember our passage from I Corinthians 2:14? "But _the natural man_ does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." This shows that the "natural man" is able to _know_ and _discern_. So the "natural man" not only refers to _the physical form_ , but to _the mind and heart_ focused on its existence (Rom. 8:5). The "self" that is developed _first_ is _the self which is related to and experienced in the world of form_ , thus the reason it is called the "natural" man (as in things that are seen). For this reason, Jesus told Nicodemus, "That which is born of the flesh _is_ flesh" (John 3:6; KJV). Just as the union of man and woman produces a child or body of "flesh," the internal working of the mind and heart also produces a state of being that is concerned with the temporary existence of this "flesh" or human form.

1 Corinthians 15:45 (KJV)

And so it is written, " **The first man Adam was made a living soul** ; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit."

The phrase, "And so it is written" refers back to what Paul just said about the natural body and the spiritual body. Paul draws his understanding from Genesis 2:7. In reference to the "natural body," the "first man Adam was made _a living soul_ " and in reference to the "spiritual body," the "last Adam was made _a quickening (life-giving) spirit_." So the "living soul" speaks of the "natural body" or "natural man" while the "quickening spirit" speaks of the "spiritual body" or "spiritual man."

1 Corinthians 15:46 (NKJV)

However, _the spiritual is not first_ , **but the natural** , and **afterward the spiritual**.

Continuing his thought, Paul makes it clear that "the spiritual is not first, _but the natural_." This distinction shows that our entrance into this world as "a living soul" or natural man was purposed by our Creator; an aspect of divine intelligence and design. If this is true, then the overall picture we are given in the story of Adam and Eve is an illustration of how the "natural man" is formed. So at this point, let's consider a theory.

Genesis 2:24-25 (NKJV)

And **they were both naked** , the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.

Just as our human form is "naked" when it enters into the world through the womb of our mother, so too is the "self" when it is first conceived within. Both are "unclothed," our knowledge, understanding and experience, like our small bodies, yet to mature. We are incapable of taking care of ourselves, knowing nothing of the visible world, the sights and sounds of those things which exist all around us. As an infant, we spend much of our time sleeping, but our waking hours are spent absorbing knowledge and understanding little by little as we experience the world and its people around us. In an amazingly short amount of time, we learn to speak the language of our culture and understand simple words that identify things that were completely foreign to us at first. We learn to crawl, then walk, and explore our surroundings more and more, yet we are still helpless for a number of years and must be cared for. Because our knowledge and understanding is yet to be fully formed, we must be guided, taught, and shown those things which are new to us. We are in a time, as Genesis 2:25 states, "not ashamed," since we have no concept or real understanding of right and wrong, of good and evil (Deut. 1:39). We are like a sponge, fascinated by the external world, wanting to absorb as much as we can during our waking moments. As we continue to grow, our experience continues as we begin to show the features of our father and mother, outwardly as well as inwardly. Though we are certainly unique, we are still very much like our parents as well as the culture into which we were born. Why? Because this psychological and emotional structure was already in place before we entered the world and it is given to us as children; _we inherit it_ (Exod. 32:13). Just as our bodies slowly age and mature, so too does our living soul or self. As both mature together, our focus is on the external, so the _firstborn child_ of our _being_ is structured _after the mind and heart of form_ , after all of the things which relate to this visible world into which we have arrived.

### CHAPTER SIX

The Natural Man

2 Corinthians 5:1-4 (NIV)

Now we know that if **the earthly tent we live in** is destroyed, we have **a building from God** , an **eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands**. Meanwhile, we groan, **longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling** , because when we are clothed, **we will not be found naked**. For **while we are in this tent** , we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be **unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling** , so that **what is mortal** may be **swallowed up by life**.

In Chapter Five, we discovered that the _firstborn child_ represents the beginning of our _natural body_ which is destined to evolve into our _natural man_ , also called the _self_ or _living soul_. In agreement, the following passages give some insight into the differences between the natural body and the spiritual body. Here Paul speaks of "the earthly tent we live in," "earthly" suggesting the _body_ fashioned from the "dust of the ground" (Gen. 2:7; I Cor. 15:47), and "tent" suggesting the _temporary_ existence of our _soul_ or _self_ in conjunction with this human form. He then speaks of " _a building from God_ , an _eternal house_ in heaven, _not built by human hands_ ," that is found when this "earthly tent we live in is destroyed." The fact that it is "not built by human hands" tells us _this is our spiritual body_ , which is "eternal" and cannot pass away.

Paul goes on to say that "while we are in this tent," _the soul_ , "we groan and are burdened," we are "mortal" and in need of being "swallowed up by life." "Mortal" certainly suggests a temporary existence, does it not? He then speaks of "longing to be _clothed_ " and "when we are _clothed_ " and "we do not wish _to be unclothed but to be clothed_ ," contrasting mortality _with_ life, our temporary life to our eternal essence, our "earthly tent" or _body_ and _soul_ to our "heavenly dwelling" or _spirit_ , our "natural body" to our "spiritual body."

So we are "naked" until we are clothed, both outwardly and inwardly, are we not? And isn't it true that when we first come into the world, that for a time we are "clothed" by others until we are able to dress ourselves? This shows that the soul or self we acquire _is given by others_ ; it is what others tell us we are. Psychologically and emotionally, we are "dressed" by those around us and by our experience in the world of form. This becomes the _firstborn child_ of "being," which we are taught to embrace and nurture as we get older and more independent. For this reason, Paul wrote, "For this corruptible," _the temporary life of the natural man_ , "must put on incorruption," _the eternal essence of the spiritual man_ , "and this mortal," again _the natural man_ , "must put on immortality," _the spiritual man_ (I Cor. 15:53; KJV). "Corruptible" and "mortal" signifies what is _perishable_ , _temporary_ and _destined to pass away_. So elsewhere, Paul tells us, "put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man," _the natural man_ , and "put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness," _the spiritual man_ (Eph. 4:22, 24; NKJV). Note how Paul relates the "old man" to "former conduct," which means "prior behavior," denoting the actions that proceed from the natural or carnal mind (Rom. 8:6). The phrase "put on" means "in the sense of _sinking_ into a garment; to _invest_ with clothing (literal or figurative)." The word "mortality" means "liable to die," again suggesting what is destined to pass away while the word "corruptible" means " _decayed_ , i.e. (by implication) _perishable_ ," again referring to _what is temporary_. No wonder Paul wrote, "But though our outward man," _the soul_ , "perish, yet the inward man," _the spirit_ , "is renewed day by day" (II Cor. 4:16; KJV). This brings us to one of the most mysterious concepts found in the Bible.

1 Corinthians 15:12-19 (NKJV)

Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no **resurrection of the dead**? But if there is no **resurrection of the dead** , then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up—if in fact the dead do not rise. For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins! Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.

Romans 10:8-9 (NKJV)

But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that **God has raised Him from the dead** , you will be saved.

The 15th Chapter of I Corinthians addresses one of the most important teachings found in scripture— _the resurrection of the dead_. Paul begins this chapter by describing those who had seen Christ after His resurrection ending with, "Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God" (I Cor. 15:8-9; NKJV).

As he continues, Paul makes it clear that "if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen. And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up—if in fact the dead do not rise." Paul clarifies this further in Romans, Chapter 10, stating that if we confess with our mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in our heart that _God has raised Him from the dead_ , we will be saved. To put it plainly, if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christianity as a whole is an empty religion, a useless belief that has no real meaning or purpose in this world.

None of us can argue the fact that the physical death of our species happens on a continual basis, fueled by war, famine, disease, natural disasters, and so on. The cycle of birth and death, as far as all of us understand, has existed for as long as humankind. But is Paul addressing the physical death and resurrection of our human body? Or is he addressing something deeper?

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (NKJV)

For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: **that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live** should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.

1 Corinthians 15:21-22 (NKJV)

For since **by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead**. For **as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive**.

If our picture in Genesis is accurate (and when brought together with II Corinthians 5:14-15), we see that Paul _is not_ addressing the death of the human form. After all, Adam did not immediately pass from this earth after his disobedience to the Father. Instead, further examination shows that God reckoned with Adam and told him, "Because you have heeded the voice of your wife (heart), and have eaten from the tree of which I commanded you, saying, 'You shall not eat of it': _Cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life._ Both _thorns and thistles_ it shall bring forth for you, and _you shall eat the herb of the field_. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread _till you return to the ground_ , for out of it you were taken; for dust you are, and _to dust you shall return_ " (Gen. 3:17-19; NKJV). Plainly, Adam's temporal existence is clarified in these statements.

Look once more at the phrase, " _Cursed_ is the ground _for your sake_." First, the "ground" or heart of man is cursed (Jer. 17:9). Why? For _our sake_ or _benefit_. "In toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, and you shall eat the herb of the field." It is evident here that the sowing (toil) and reaping (eat of it) of our natural existence is signified and a few verses later we read, "Therefore the Lord God sent him out of the Garden of Eden to _till the ground_ from which he was taken" (Gen. 3:23; NKJV). Our phrase "till the ground" refers back to the "toil," the "thorns and thistles," and the "herb (grass) of the field." In other words, to our principle of sowing and reaping in regard to our natural being. The phrases, "till you return to the ground" and "to dust you shall return" typifies our passing from this physical plane. So, just as a fruit tree reaches a peak of maturity, then begins to perish from that point forward, so does the natural man of our being. The "life" of our natural man is designed to be short-lived and pass away once it reaches maturity (James 4:14).

In I Corinthians 15:21, Paul leaves no doubt that "by man came death" and tells us "For as in Adam all die." The word "as" in the Strong's Concordance is defined as " _just as_ , i.e. _exactly like_ ," showing that _the story of Adam is a representation of every person_ and how our journey in this world _begins as a natural being_. Paul clarifies this by stating that like Adam, all of us die; all of us enter into the temporary existence of the soul or self which is dying while it lives (Eph. 2:1). "Just as" Eve and Adam ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, so too does every person; no one is exempt from this process.

The story of Adam and Eve and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil is a pictorial presentation that illustrates sowing to our own flesh or natural being and reaping the corruption which follows, but to emphasize, "corruption" simply describes _the temporary nature of the life of our natural being and everything in the world of form and how it must pass away once it reaches maturity_. This being said, Adam's "death" can be defined as _the life that is designed to pass away_. This agrees with our word "mortal" which means, "subject or liable to death" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words).

We have already defined the tree of knowledge of good and evil as representing knowledge, understanding and wisdom. However, let's be a little more specific. These three components are represented, but always in reference to the fact that _they are linked to the world of form_. For this reason, we find the phrase "wisdom of _this world_ " used in contrast to the wisdom of God (I Cor. 1:20; 2:6; 3:19). Now, when we think about the phrase "good and evil," we must consider that this is somewhat open-ended and gives us quite a bit of latitude in its relationship to our three components. Simply put, good and evil is interlaced within the scope of our natural existence. As any one of us can testify, humankind continually produces both out of the wisdom of the self or natural man. On one hand, we do many things for the benefit of humankind, yet on the other, our greed and self-seeking leads to horrendous acts of suffering all across the globe.

Romans 12:3 (NKJV)  
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, **not to think** _of himself_ **more highly than he ought to think** , but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.

Based on this passage, I believe the "evil" of the tree of knowledge is a result of thinking more highly of our "self" than we should. The King James Bible defines this as the " _pride_ of life" in I John 2:16 which the New International Version describes as "the boasting of what he has and does." In modern terms, we call this _arrogance_ , which is simply how much value and importance we place on our own temporary, physical existence. There can be no doubt as to its reality in our natural state of being, for it is arrogance that creates and supports the attitude in each of us that we are more deserving than others around us. This frame of mind finds its way into every aspect of our existence, including our religions, but we are all equal in the eyes of our Creator, regardless of color, culture, language, or even religious belief.

All that exists in the visible world is designed to pass away and this includes these human forms in which we dwell. Therefore, it is to our benefit _not_ to think more highly of ourselves (and this visible world) than we should. So John writes, "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. _And the world is passing away, and the lust of it_ ; but he who does the will of God abides forever" (I John 2:15-17; NKJV). It is our love and identification with form that is responsible for all of humankind's self-inflicted suffering.

So when we speak of _the mind of form_ , I emphasize the fact that the primary focus of our thinking is this body of flesh and all that concerns it. Paul writes that this mind " _is_ death" (Rom. 8:6) because it is absorbed in those things which, like our human body, _are destined to pass away_. When form is our priority, it gives rise to all manner of problems as most of us can readily testify. True, our needs must be met, but once they are, what then? Why do we go beyond what we need in order to possess so much of what we want?

Romans 5:17-19 (NKJV)  
**For if by the one man's offense death reigned through the one** , much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the one, Jesus Christ.) Therefore **, as through one man's offense** _judgment_ **came to all men** , resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man's righteous act _the free gift came_ to all men, resulting in justification of life. For **as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners** , so also by one Man's obedience many will be made righteous.

Ezekiel 18:4 (NKJV)

"Behold, all souls are Mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is Mine; **the soul who sins shall die**.

Remember, Adam was made a "living soul," but because of his disobedience "death reigned" and "judgment came to all men." The fact that "judgment came to all men" and "many were made sinners," defines our exponential factor of _one_ to _many_ contained in our principle of sowing and reaping. Ezekiel 18:4 also confirms Adam's death in Genesis as _the death of the soul_ , but we must not forget that this was determined by our Creator. And how is this presented to us? Let's look at it again.

Genesis 2:16-17 (NKJV)  
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, **for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die**."

Before his disobedience, we are told that Adam was "a _living_ soul" (Gen. 2:7). Then, Adam disobeyed, and in agreement with Ezekiel 18:4, his disobedience brought death, for "the _soul_ who sins _shall die_." But this is not about one occurrence or eating fruit from a literal tree. As we have said, it is a pictorial presentation of sowing to the flesh or form and how it results in reaping the corruption which follows. The phrase, "you shall surely die," correlates with our word "corruption," because corruption is the perishing of anything that is based in form (II Cor. 4:18).

Hebrews 9:27 (NKJV)

And as **it is appointed for men to die once** , but after this **the judgment**...

Hebrews 9:27 confirms that Adam's fall was by design, telling us " _it is appointed for men to die once_ , but after this the judgment." It's interesting to note that once the seed of the male enters into the egg of the female, that in essence a "death" takes place when the seed and egg join. The individual characteristics of the seed and the egg are lost in the union of both within the darkness of the womb. This is followed by our _nine_ month gestation period, which reflects the "judgment" of Hebrews 9:27. Is this same pattern reflected in the conception and birth of the soul? I believe it is.

I Corinthians 15:35-38 (NKJV)

But someone will say, "How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?" Foolish one, **what you sow is not made alive unless it dies**. And what you sow, you do not sow that body that shall be, but mere grain—perhaps wheat or some other grain. But God gives it a body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body.

In I Corinthians, Chapter 15, Paul uses _the principle of sowing and reaping_ as his platform to describe the resurrection of the dead. The word "resurrection" simply means, "a _standing up_ again," which is what happens when a seed is planted in the ground; _it stands up again in another body_ or form. When a seed is planted, it does not immediately return another seed. First, it forms a "body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body," and just as a tree is the "body" of the seed, we find two kinds of bodies symbolized by two kinds of trees in our story of Adam and Eve. What forms the "natural body" begins with the "seed" found in the "fruit" of the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" while what forms the "spiritual body" begins with the "seed" found in the "fruit" of the "tree of life."

Genesis 3:22-24 (NKJV)  
Then the Lord God said, "Behold, the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil. And now, lest he put out his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever"-- therefore **the Lord God sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground from which he was taken. So He drove out the man** ; and He placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.

So as the story in Genesis goes, Eve, then Adam, did not eat from the tree of life, but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Following this we read, "Therefore the Lord God _sent him out of the garden of Eden to till the ground_ from which he was taken. So _he drove out the man_." At this point, we must keep in mind that Adam's experience _in_ the garden became humankind's experience _outside_ the garden. In other words, the principle of sowing to the flesh and reaping corruption found its way into all humankind as illustrated by Adam.

Romans 5:13-14 (KJV)  
( **For until the law sin was in the world** : but sin is not imputed when there is no law. **Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses**...

As this passage confirms, Adam's disobedience introduced "death" or "corruption" into the world, the exponential factor evident as "by _one_ man's disobedience _many_ were made sinners" (Rom. 5:19; KJV).

Genesis 4:1 (NKJV)  
Now **Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain** , and said, "I have acquired a man from the Lord."

It cannot be coincidence that, _after their expulsion from the garden_ , we read, "Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain." Does this reflect the sowing of our knowledge and understanding to future generations? Most definitely, for as we know, Cain followed in the footsteps of his parents, his resistance to the principles of the kingdom of God evident in his act of murdering his brother (Gen. 4:8). Our phrase, "I have acquired _a man_ from the Lord" agrees with our understanding that even our natural man is purposed by our Creator.

So in all of this we see how the knowledge that is sown in us joins together with our understanding of it to form a "body" or _structure_ of _mind_ and _heart_ , creating the "firstborn child" of "being" as represented by Cain. Remember, "the spiritual is not first, but the natural" (I Cor. 15:46; NKJV). And "just as" Adam fell into death through sin, it becomes evident in his firstborn child. As reflected in the natural process of the growth of a tree and in the phrase, "in the process of time" (Gen. 4:3; NKJV), we see Cain mature into a "natural man" and display the same characteristics of disobedience as his father. Adam sowed to his flesh; Cain followed suit; and death or "corruption" was a divine component designed to follow after.

2 Corinthians 4:16 (NKJV)

Therefore we do not lose heart. **Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day**.

In agreement with our perspective, Paul tells us that "our outward man is perishing." And what or who is this "outward man?" Would it not be our soul or self? I am inclined to think so and the phrase "outward" points to the fact that both Adam and Cain, after their disobedience, went "outside" of the garden of Eden (Gen. 3:23, 24; 4:16). In other words, our natural man is attached to the world of form. No wonder Paul stated that our natural man " _does not receive_ the things of the Spirit of God" (I Cor. 2:14; NKJV). It is the "inward man" of spirit which receives from the Spirit of God and thus "renewed day by day." And why is this? Because the soul or self is not fashioned to remain, but only to exist until a transition takes place, a passing from death to life (see John 5:24, Romans 6:13 and I John 3:14 in the NIV), from our soul to the Spirit, from our will to His will (John 4:34), from self to selflessness. This is why Jesus taught, "If any man will come after me, _let him deny himself_ , and _take up his cross_ , and follow me. For _whosoever will save his life shall lose it_ " (Matt. 16:24-25; KJV). Which "life" is he speaking of? Would it not be the natural life of the soul or self?

In its simplest form, there are four stages in our process of sowing and reaping. The first stage begins with the seed, which houses the instructions for the "life" of the body which it contains. Our second stage is the sowing of this seed into the heart of our being. Once the seed germinates, the "body" of the seed begins to form within us to eventually arrive at its mature stage where the "fruit" becomes evident. The final stage is the perishing of the "body" as it reaches its mature stage and declines from there. Of course, the "body" of which we speak is the "natural body," the "outward man" of II Corinthians 4:16.

Romans 8:5-6 (KJV)

For they that are after the flesh **do mind** the things of the flesh... to be carnally minded **is death**...

When we have a clear understanding of the difference between soul and Spirit, then we can better understand what Paul meant in his letters in reference to the "flesh" and "carnally minded." The phrase "do mind" in verse five means, "to _exercise_ the _mind_ , i.e. _entertain_ or _have a sentiment_ or _opinion_ ; by implication to _be_ (mentally) _disposed_ (more or less earnestly in a certain direction); intensive to _interest oneself_ in (with concern or obedience)." This definition confirms what we are discussing and agrees with our description in Genesis 3:17-19. The firstborn child of our knowledge and understanding is the _ego_ or _self_ that is "after the flesh" and minds "the things of the flesh," the human form. It entertains and has a sentiment or opinion about and is mentally disposed in the direction of the physical being and all that it finds necessary to it. Paul called this the "carnal mind" (Rom. 8:7) and tells us that to exist in this mind "is death," the _temporary life_ , _nature_ , and _corruptibility_ of all form. So when we read "it is appointed for men to die once," this refers to the state of being that exists within our thinking. As we see, this is represented by the birth of Cain, the _firstborn_ , and results in the "natural man." Furthermore, to understand that this is "appointed" is to understand the necessity of the "death" of the seed which was sown.

Genesis 4:1-2 (NKJV)

Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, and said, " **I have acquired a man from the Lord**." Then she bore again, this time his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.

Look again at what was written. "Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, and said, 'I have acquired _a man_ from the Lord.'" Acquired what? A man. What man? The "natural man." In keeping with our perspective of mind and heart, we see the union of male and female, husband and wife, bringing forth the firstborn child who became the "man," Cain. But then notice that Eve has another child named Abel (and it doesn't state that she knew Adam; it just says "she bore again"), and when it speaks of their livelihood (or more specifically their character), Abel is named first as "a keeper of sheep," then Cain, the firstborn, is called "a tiller of the ground." What do these descriptions tell us?

Since the human body or flesh was formed from the dust of the ground (Gen. 2:7), when we speak of _sowing_ to the flesh, it means we " _mind_ the things of the flesh." When the mind or husband is set on the human form, it sows its thoughts into the "ground" or "womb" of the female or heart. This is "a tiller of the ground," the word "tiller" meaning "to _work_ (in any sense)." Both male and female, mind and heart, are intent upon producing the desires of the flesh or form-based world, so what is conceived and born of this union of mind and heart, _is flesh_ and symbolized by Cain.

In direct contrast, a "keeper of sheep" speaks of "he who sows to _the_ Spirit," of the spiritual essence in all of us which draws the mind toward "things above, not on things on the earth" (Col. 3:2). This spiritual essence sows those things which relate to the kingdom of God (Matt. 13:23) into the heart and produces the desires of our heavenly Father (Luke 2:49), which is to become our "brother's keeper" (Gen. 4:9; KJV). The "keeper of sheep" is illustrated and exemplified in Abel and Christ (John 10:1-16), who embodies the Spirit of love and wisdom of the Father. So we have in this presentation of the characteristics of Cain and Abel, both segments of our law of sowing and reaping that was established from the beginning and defined by Paul in Galatians, Chapter 6.

The definition of "Cain" in the Strong's Concordance reads, "In the original sense of _fixity_ ; a _lance_ (as _striking fast_ )." The Merriam-Webster Dictionary online defines "fixity" as "the quality or state of being fixed or stable." This seems to indicate how quickly the self is formed in everyone (when we are but children) and that it is a divinely sanctioned and established process which happens to every human being. And what is the "self" if not who we "think" we are, the accumulation of knowledge and understanding and experience (wisdom) which we acquire in the world of form? Who of us doesn't act out of this structure of knowledge and understanding which expresses that of our human form and its attachments? And should there be any doubt as to "Cain" denoting the "self," we need only compare the nature of Cain with the intense conflict that is taking place throughout the world at any given moment. When God asked Cain where his brother was, didn't Cain reply, "I know not: am I my brother's keeper" (Gen. 4:9; KJV)? This is the nature of our natural man who resists the things of the Spirit of God, for we are indeed our "brother's keeper." There is no doubt that the struggle we have with this simple truth is being manifested outwardly in every arena of our human existence. The conflict between Cain and Abel aptly reflects the conflict between our soul and our spirit and between each of us as neighbors on this planet.

Galatians 6:7 (NKJV)

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

"Do not be deceived," Paul says, "God is not mocked." The word "mocked" is _myktērizō_ and reads, "to _make mouths_ at, i.e. _ridicule_." And what is it that we are not to be deceived about? That "whatever a man (natural or spiritual) sows, that he will also reap." Not surprisingly, the evidence of this universal and indisputable truth is strikingly clear, seen in the conflict, lawlessness and suffering that continues to be generated by the self in all of us. But we often fail to realize that what we see is a result of the knowledge and understanding that we were taught to embrace from previous generations. Many of us have not yet discovered that what we know and understand must be challenged; that much of what we inherited and simply take for granted is rooted in the temporary and passing nature of the soul.

Galatians 6:8 (NKJV)

For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption...

In light of a seed representing knowledge, think of how it begins in its most basic form to eventually manifest as "fruit." This shows that what we know in our culture today was derived from this "fruit" (behavior) and its "seeds" (knowledge) from past generations. And, in a few more generations, our great grandchildren will be exposed to even more cultural shifts and changes than what we are presently dealing with. This is certainly evident in the areas of science and technology, but also includes the many ideologies which we so fervently embrace. The truth is, many of these ideologies exist, not because they are right, but only because they have been handed down from generation to generation. Much of what we hold to today has never really been questioned as to its source and soundness and the effect that it has on our present state of being. As an example, consider how difficult it has been to gain racial equality in this country (and this struggle is not yet over). What came to fruition and was "sown" so many generations ago is still creating suffering in our present day.

Mark 4:23-25 (NKJV

If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear." Then He said to them, " **Take heed what you hear**. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him."

Every selfish act, regardless of intensity, is an outward manifestation of the inward process of sowing to the flesh and reaping the same. For this reason, Jesus said, "Take heed what you hear." Why? Because death and life are in the power of our tongue, and whatever knowledge and understanding we love determines which "fruit" or wisdom we "eat" or take into our being. What we hear, embrace and deem as important in our present generation becomes the structure of belief out of which we speak and "sow" to the next. If it comes from the spirit and mind of man apart from any concern for the life-giving principles of the kingdom of God, then it is sowing to the flesh and will only return corruption. It simply cannot return anything else.

"Do not be deceived," Paul said. The "works (sowing and reaping) of the flesh are evident" (Gal. 5:19; NKJV). They are "sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Gal. 5:19-21: NIV). Not only are we seeing these works every day, but they are often presented to us as the way we too should both think and act. But Paul said, "God is not mocked" because the law of sowing and reaping doesn't fail or change, no matter how much we may fail to see or resist it. As mankind presses forward in this mind, challenging the truth of his Maker, he is still reaping corruption. The seed that is planted can only return what it is. Every effort of sowing to the flesh will never return anything that is true, spiritual, and lasting.

Being raw and honest, our love of those things which are external is continuing to produce the insanity that we see every day. Because of the great importance we place upon the human form and its attachments, we continue to propagate the madness that is necessary to sustain it. We have not yet awakened to the fact that it is "vanity" (Eccl. 1:1-11) and the end result is short-lived. I believe that the grossest and darkest acts of man are tied directly to the depth of how far we have sunken into the mind of the human form.

So is mankind doomed to failure? Is he destined to continue in this downward spiral of darkness, never to know the peace which passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7)? I for one don't believe so.

Yes, it is true that when we sow to the flesh, we must reap corruption. But within this principle is the love, mercy and purpose of the One who made us, established within the eternal principle of sowing and reaping. After all, if we did not reap the consequences of our actions, would we ever question our state of being? Would we ever consider that there is something higher to attain? Our Creator, in His infinite mercy and grace, set this principle into motion, knowing fully well its impact upon us, not out of hatred or animosity, _but out of love_. When we sow to the flesh, we reap its results, not because our Father enjoys our suffering, but because He cannot, even for one second, allow us to be deceived about our present state of being.

Thankfully, the law of sowing and reaping is a "two-edged sword," pertaining to the soul _and_ spirit and I believe that the one leads to the other. When we awaken to this in the fullest sense of their meaning, we will awaken to the understanding necessary to heal mankind.

No doubt, we are constantly reminded of our shortcomings, our sin nature, and our failure to love each other as Jesus taught. We have been bombarded with condemnation, taught to believe that we cannot do anything about it. But that is because we are still children in understanding. And because we are children, we "pretend" to have the answers and then use them as a means to accuse and separate from each other. When we reach spiritual maturity, this too will pass.

In a sense, the law of sowing and reaping does not need us to defend or champion it. It stands on its own and works perfectly in its scope. It shines as a testimony to the perfect and all-encompassing wisdom of our Maker since the beginning of the first generation of mankind. The fact that it works so well on one side (flesh) proves that it works just as well on the other (Spirit). It may be a "two-edged sword," but it is _one_ sword _inseparably linked_ and working together to produce the purpose which God intended. He is not mocked.

Our true meaning or purpose here is not about the outward or external, but the inward and eternal. Though the natural glory of this world and man (I Cor. 15:40) is indeed awesome to consider, our existence on this planet is connected to something far higher and greater than that which can be seen.

### CHAPTER SEVEN

The City

Daniel 2:33 (KJV)

His **legs of iron**...

Daniel 2:40 (NKJV)

And **the fourth kingdom shall be as strong as iron** , inasmuch as iron breaks in pieces and shatters everything; and like iron that crushes, that kingdom will break in pieces and crush all the others.

The mind or male has joined with the understanding or female. Out of this experience of _desire_ , something was conceived, formed and birthed, the work of sowing complete as we reap what began as a seed from the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, our "firstborn" child, Cain, who continues to mature into a "natural man" and represents the _self_ which we have defined _as us_. We now have father, mother, and child as typified by the head of gold, breast and arms of silver, and belly and thighs of brass. This brings us to the _fourth_ kingdom of "iron," which are the "legs" in Nebuchadnezzar's image.

Of the five elements in the image, the _iron_ is the strongest, and Daniel emphasizes this to Nebuchadnezzar in our passage above. The _legs_ correlate, being one of the strongest parts of the human form as well. Iron "is the most common element (by mass) forming the planet Earth as a whole, forming much of Earth's outer and inner core. It is the _fourth_ most common element in the Earth's crust" (Wikipedia; The Free Encyclopedia). Though "pure iron is soft," it is "significantly hardened and strengthened by impurities from the smelting process, such as carbon. A certain proportion of carbon produces steel, which may be up to 1000 times harder than pure iron" (Wikipedia; The Free Encyclopedia).

The legs are an extension of the trunk of the body; _the support on which it rests_. In the same fashion, our "self" is the accumulative structure of wisdom which defines our state of being, an extension of our knowledge, understanding, experience and desire in the world of form. Once formed, it becomes the focal point of our existence, _the support on which we settle_. Just like a natural child born of its parents, our _self_ becomes our _purpose_ and _meaning_.

The legs of iron are the _fourth_ element in the image, the _fourth_ kingdom, and the _fourth_ most common element in the Earth's crust. Consider Bullinger's explanation of the number _four_.

We have seen that _three_ signifies Divine perfection.

Now the number _four_ is made up of three and one (3+1=4), and it denotes, therefore, and marks that which follows the revelation of God, namely, _His creative works_. He is known by the things that are seen. Hence the written revelation commences with the words, "In-the-beginning God CREATED." Creation is therefore the next thing—the _fourth_ thing, and the number _four_ always has reference to all that is _created_. It is emphatically the _number of Creation_ ; of man in his relation to the world as created; while _six_ is the number of man in his opposition to and independence of God. It is the number of things that have a beginning, of things that are made, of material things, and matter itself. It is the number of _material completeness_. Hence it is the _world number_ , and especially the "city" number.

The _fourth_ day saw the _material creation_ finished (for on the _fifth_ and _sixth_ days it was only the _furnishing_ and _peopling_ of the earth with living creatures). The sun, moon, and stars completed the work, and they were to give light upon the earth which had been created, and to rule over the day and over the night (Gen 1:14-19).

_Four_ is the number of the great elements—earth, air, fire, and water.

_Four_ are the regions of the earth—north, south, east, and west.

_Four_ are the divisions of the day—morning, noon, evening, and midnight. Or in our Lord's words, when He speaks of His coming at evening, midnight, cock-crowing, or in the morning (Mark 13:35). We are never to put off His coming in our minds beyond tomorrow morning.

_Four_ are the seasons of the year—spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

_Four_ are the great variations of the lunar phases.

In Genesis 2:10, 11, the one river of Paradise was parted, and became into _four_ heads, and "the fourth river is Euphrates." Here, as so often elsewhere, the four is made up of 3 + 1. For three of these rivers are now unnamed, while _one_ is still known by its original name "Euphrates."

_Four_ marks _division_ also. For the river was " _parted_." It is the first number which is not a "prime," the first which can be _divided_. It is the first _square_ number also, and therefore it marks a kind of _completeness_ as well, which we have called _material completeness_.

Bullinger states that _four_ "is the world number, and especially the 'city' number." As the "world number," it denotes the _material creation_ , this body of form and its temporary relationship to the visible world into which it is born.

As the "city number," it speaks of a _foundation_ , made up of _four_ sides. But a city is not one foundation or building or home, but many. So in this number, we have the exponential principle again, the _one_ and the _many_ , the _personal_ as well as the _collective_. We are each a "self," but a city consists of many "selves." And just like our physical structures, we are each different, yet the underlying foundation of who we are is much the same. We may differ in color, culture and language, but beneath it all, we are all natural and spiritual creatures, dealing with the same struggles of our human existence. So in the number _four_ , we see the " _foundation_ of the _world,_ " (4) that relates to the natural man (Matt. 13:35; John 17:24), the _soul_ or _self_ which is formed and established in everyone.

Genesis 4:16-17 (NKJV)

Then Cain **went out from the presence of the Lord and dwelt in the land of Nod** on the east of Eden. And Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore **Enoch**. And **he built a city** , and **called the name of the city after the name of his son – Enoch**.

We began our study with the head of gold, the male, man, husband, father, and mind as seen in Adam. This brought us to the second element of the breast and arms of silver, signifying the female, woman, wife, mother, and heart as seen in Eve. We then arrived at the third element of the belly and thighs of brass, representing the union of the male and female, the husband and wife, the mind and heart, which conceives and forms the firstborn "child" of our being, represented by Cain, the extension of father and mother, knowledge and understanding drawn together by desire. Finally, _four_ being the "city" number, we find confirmation of its spiritual meaning in the preceding passages, the first mention of a _city_ in scripture connected to the firstborn child, Cain.

Genesis 4:16 tells us that Cain "went out from the presence of the Lord and dwelt in the land of Nod." Three important things should be considered in this statement. First, the fact that Cain "went out from the presence of the Lord." This indicates the _independent nature_ of the _self_. Second, we read "dwelt in the land of Nod." The word "dwelt" means "to _sit_ down," to " _dwell,_ to _remain_ ," which illustrates how we settle on the self as our _purpose_ and _meaning_. Finally, the word "Nod" means "vagrancy," taken from the word which means " _exile_ " or " _wandering_." This aligns with the understanding that our self _must leave our connection to the Source of life from which we came_ and seek to find purpose and meaning in the temporary existence of form. Why? Because _it is a matter of intelligent design_. The self was not formed out of our choice but out of God's purpose. Adam did not fall by mistake but by divine intention. After all, we cannot deny the self if there is no self to deny (Matt. 16:24). "The first man Adam was made _a living soul_ " (I Cor. 15:45), who fell due to disobedience, so we read, "The law of the Lord is perfect, _converting the soul_ " (Psalms 19:7).

Continuing in Genesis, we read, "Cain _knew_ his wife, and she conceived and bore Enoch. And he built a _city_ , and called the name of the _city_ after the name of his son—Enoch." The name "Enoch" means "initiated" and comes from the word meaning "to _initiate_ or _discipline_ ," to " _train up_." This again suggests the _exponential_ function of sowing and reaping, that every city begins with _one_ foundation to _expand_ and incorporate others into it.

The foundation of any building is its beginning and the most important part of its structure. In order for the rest of the building to be stable, the foundation must be properly set and secure. So in Cain, we see the formation and establishment of the foundation of the self, and with his son and the city which he built, we see the propagation of that same foundation. Since Enoch means to "train up," the city which Cain built represents a duplication of the first foundation or a _collective agreement_ based on the original source from which it began. So once again we have the personal and the collective as defined by the exponential function.

So in our image, what does the element of "iron" symbolize? The fact that it is our _fourth_ and final metal signifies _the corruption of this temporary life and nature of the soul that came through and is illustrated by Adam_. It speaks of our state of being which we define as the self, cultured into us through the mind and heart set on this body and the temporary elements that are perishing and thus "is death" (Rom. 8:6). Consider the following from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia.

Rust is composed of iron oxides. In colloquial usage, the term is applied to red oxides, formed by the reaction of iron and oxygen in the presence of water or air moisture.

Given sufficient time, oxygen, and water, any iron mass will eventually convert entirely to rust and disintegrate. Surface rust is flaky and friable, and provides no protection to the underlying iron, unlike the formation of patina on copper surfaces. Rusting is the common term for corrosion of iron and its alloys, such as steel. Many other metals undergo equivalent corrosion, but the resulting oxides are not commonly called rust.

Is it simply a coincidence that despite the strength of iron, "given sufficient time, oxygen, and water, any iron mass will eventually convert entirely to rust and disintegrate?" If we think of water as the Word of our Creator (Eph. 5:26) and oxygen as the "breath" or Spirit of that Word (John 16:13), then the irrefutable fact that we reap "corruption" is reflected in the "corrosion" of the iron. Not surprisingly, then, the definition of "corrosion" reads, "A process in which a solid, especially a metal, is eaten away and changed by a chemical action, as in the oxidation of iron in the presence of water by an electrolytic process" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). In this understanding we find the temporary nature of the self that is destined to be converted and changed by the immutable working of the dynamic Word of our Maker. No wonder Jesus said, "For _whosoever will save his life shall lose it_ : and _whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it_ " (Matt. 16:25; KJV). Notice in this passage that regardless of which path we take _, the loss of the soul or self takes place_. In the first segment, we lose our lives due to the corrupt nature which is inherent in the process while in the second segment, we lose our lives through the acceptance of this same process.

Deuteronomy 4:20 (NKJV)

But the Lord has taken you and brought you out of the **iron furnace** , out of Egypt, to be His people, an inheritance, as you are this day.

Psalms 107:10, 14, 16 (NKJV)

Those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, bound in **affliction and irons** \-- He brought them out of **darkness and the shadow of death** , and broke their chains in pieces. For He has broken **the gates of bronze, and cut the bars of iron in two**.

Revelation 6:7-8 (KJV)

And when he had opened the **fourth** seal, I heard the voice of the **fourth** beast say, come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: **and his name that sat on him was Death**...

When we reach the _fourth_ metal in the image, we arrive at the _last_ metal. The _fifth_ and final element is that of clay. In agreement with the _fourth_ element of iron, Daniel speaks of no other kingdom with the exception of the kingdom of God as denoted by the "stone" in Daniel 2:34. Daniel tells Nebuchadnezzar, "And the _fourth kingdom_ shall be as strong as iron, inasmuch as iron _breaks in pieces and shatters everything_ ; and like iron that crushes, _that kingdom will break in pieces and crush all the others_ " (Dan. 2:40). What does the fourth kingdom do? It "breaks in pieces and shatters everything," it "will break in pieces and crush all the others." In other words, it is a kingdom or dominion that is stronger than and overpowers the rest. In every age, hasn't corruption had the final say in our human existence? Despite how much power we attain or how much we amass in this world, how quickly it fades, and all of it is destined to be gone in an instant when we pass from this earth. Corresponding with this _fourth_ kingdom, note that when the _fourth_ seal is opened, that John sees a "pale horse: and his name that sat on him was _Death_."

In Deuteronomy 4:20, consider that Egypt, the nation which held the people of Israel in captivity for _four_ hundred years (Gen. 15:13), is likened to an "iron furnace." In other words, it was a place of captivity and bondage (Rom. 8:15, 21) and of fiery testing (I Peter 4:12) for the people of Israel until such time as God delivered them through Moses.

In Psalms 107, we see "darkness" and "the shadow of death" likened to "affliction" and "irons" respectively, which emphasizes our idea of captivity and bondage. Psalms also states, "bound in affliction and irons," pointing to the "bondage (affliction) of corruption (iron)" that we experience through the sowing and reaping of our natural man (Rom. 8:15, 21).

It is also interesting to note that the Strong's Concordance defines "shadow of death" as "shade of death." What causes shade? Light. Does this suggest that the temporary nature of the soul is illuminated by the eternal nature of the Spirit, that even as we "walk through the valley of the shadow of death" (Psalms 23:4), that the light or wisdom of our Creator is made evident to the soul?

Revelation 2:23 (KJV)

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.

In agreement with the spiritual meaning of _four_ , we find in the _fourth_ message to the _fourth_ church of Thyatira that Christ, in reference to Jezebel's "children," says, "I will kill her children with _death_." This is an unusual statement, but if we think carefully about this, it agrees with our concept that death is _a state of being_ , and speaks of the mind set on form. Also notice how the Lord follows with "I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts," emphasizing an inner work and "I will give unto every one of you according to your works," emphasizing the reaping of what we sow.

In regard to "Jezebel" and "her children," remember our perspective of the Parable of the Wheat and Tares? Would these "children" be the rebellious and hateful thoughts that arise out of the mind of form (reins and hearts)? After all, Christ was not speaking literally since "Jezebel," the wife of a former king of Judah, had long since passed from this world (I Kings 16:29-34).

Revelation 2:26-27 (NKJV)

And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations-- **He shall rule them with a rod of iron** ; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels'-- as I also have received from My Father...

In comparison to the "iron" in the legs of Nebuchadnezzar's image, we see a "rod of iron" in these passages which is used to "rule" the nations and "they shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels." Doesn't this agree with our _fourth_ kingdom which "breaks in pieces and shatters everything" (Dan. 2:40; NKJV)? Also consider that this "rod of iron" is used on "the nations," in other words, _all humankind_. How could this be if not by means of something that is relevant to everyone? So this establishes our concept that the sowing and reaping of the natural man relates to all of us.

Remember, the name Enoch means "initiated," taken from the word which means"to _narrow_ ; figurative to _initiate_ or _discipline_." The idea of discipline takes us to the following passages.

Hebrews 12:1-11 (NIV)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: " **My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.** " **Endure hardship as discipline** ; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined ( **and everyone undergoes discipline** ), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. **No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.**

1 Corinthians 11:32 (NKJV)

But **when we are judged, we are chastened** by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world.

Is it just coincidence that we find an explanation of discipline in Chapter 12, the number which stands for "perfection of government," the government or kingdom of God (Bullinger)? Notice that Paul tells us, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith." So our context concerns faith, about what we believe and thus act from. "Who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame." Clearly the cross is indicative of the suffering and opposition that we experience within and from each other so Paul wrote, "For the message of the cross is _foolishness_ to those who are perishing," to the outward man of the soul, "but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (I Cor. 1:18; NIV). In the cross we see our "struggle against sin," not only within but from others as well, and sin, though an archaic word, is simply the word that represents _the source of all human suffering that issues from our natural being_. But Paul wants to make it clear as he states, "And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: 'My son, _do not make light of the Lord's discipline_ , and do not lose heart when He rebukes you, because _the Lord disciplines those He loves_ , and _He punishes everyone he accepts as a son_.'" He then tells us, "Endure _hardship_ as _discipline_ ; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not _disciplined_ by his father?" Furthermore, "if you are not _disciplined_... then you are illegitimate children and not true sons." But again, Paul is clear. "Everyone undergoes discipline." In other words, all of us (as defined by the "nations" in Revelation 2:26-27), must go through the hardship (and hence suffering) which is His discipline regarding the death (of the self) that is symbolized by the cross of Christ. Our Father treats all of us as sons regardless of our color, culture, language and even religious beliefs; no one is exempt. The "Lord disciplines those He loves" (John 3:16). And how is this discipline administered? Through the principle of sowing and reaping. As we act out of self in disregard to the principles of the kingdom of God, we reap the "wages" of our disobedience which is death, the temporary and fading essence of the world of form (Rom. 6:23).

Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but **after this the judgment**...

Romans 5:12 (NKJV)

Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus **death spread to all men** , because all sinned...

1 Corinthians 15:56 (KJV)

The **sting** of death is **sin**...

"It is _appointed_ unto men once to die," so like Adam, all of us do. And how did death enter? Through the sin that arises out of the desires of the self, our natural man. And why did death enter? Because it is the temporary nature of all form and became the means by which discipline is applied, so that "when we are judged, _we are chastened by the Lord_ , that we may not be condemned with the world" (I Cor. 11:32; NKJV). The "sting of death is sin," meaning that death is the means of discipline and sin is the sting when discipline is wielded. When we fail to desire the well being of all things, we suffer the pain that is caused by it. After all, isn't that what discipline is for? To correct us when we disobey? Tradition has led us to believe that judgment is coming, but the fact is that judgment or chastening, is _always present_ in the form of reaping what we sow. Our "hardship" _is_ our discipline and "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a _harvest_ of righteousness and peace _for those who have been trained by it_." This shows that righteousness is clearly the purpose of discipline and suffering is the means necessary to teach us. And why is this? Perhaps because so many of us don't yet realize the great potential that lies within. Has it not been determined by our Maker that we are to be in His image?

Matthew 12:25 (NKJV)

But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: " **Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation** , and every **city** or **house** divided against itself will not stand.

Our image begins with one component, the head, which has two eyes, two ears, and two nostrils. From there it separates into left and right with two arms extending from the breast, two legs extending from the trunk, two feet extending from the legs. But though it is divided, it is still just one body. Is it possible that even our outward, physical makeup reflects the inward spiritual makeup as represented by Cain and Abel?

Jesus said, "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation." As king _of_ Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar represented himself and the kingdom over which he ruled; and the same could be said for the other kings and kingdoms that followed. So again we have our exponential principle, both the one and the many, the individual and the collective. For this reason Jesus followed with, "Every _city_ (many) or _house_ (one) divided against itself will not stand."

As Nebuchadnezzar's dream reveals, man's kingdoms are founded and established on the natural man, thus there is both an internal as well as an external division evident, and this division remains apparent even after these "kingdoms" are firmly rooted in society. As a result, both the internal and external are destined for "desolation" (which means "to _lay waste_ "). For this reason, history shows the rise and fall of many great cultures and societies that have long since passed (though the impact of these kingdoms remain). One of the most recent to fall is the Soviet Union, the USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) in 1991. There is but one kingdom that is destined to remain which is signified by "a stone" which "was cut out without hands" (Dan. 2:34, 44-45). This does of course refer to the spiritual power and principles and kingdom of our Creator.

Within the scope of our present societies, we find the strength (legs of iron) of those things which have been established for many years that have been built on and handed down many times over by the generations before us. But for each new generation that arises, there are subtle shifts and changes in humankind's evolvement, in the structure of these social, economic, political and religious platforms. We could say then that society is _emergent_ , but the underlying structure remains the same; _the mind of form_. Humankind always endeavors to improve on what has come before. So, whether we realize it or not, we are born into a foundation that was already established before we arrived. As a result, we are cultured into this "collective" way of thinking that stands as a "collective" way of being. To put it plainly, _we are taught to think the way everyone else thinks; to embrace what everyone else embraces_. And not only are we instructed by those closest to us, we also learn from what we observe around us in the other facets of our society. And so it goes. The sowing and reaping of the natural man's wisdom passes from each successive generation to the next.

Nebuchadnezzar, the "head of gold," was called a "king of kings," signifying that thought precedes everything. It is the "god" of our being, working in conjunction with our heart or understanding, disseminating the information within that eventually becomes what we believe to be our purpose and meaning, the foundation or structure or kingdom on which we agree and then settle on. This leads to our way of being or doing (I John 2:16; NIV). All societies are various collectives that exist upon a certain way of thinking and thus, a certain way of doing. We, like the generations before us, soon take for granted the strength of these collectives, not realizing how our thinking has become their thinking, our doing their doing, our being their being. To put it honestly, we don't really think for ourselves, _we learn to think like our collectives_. And the division, which is so much a part of it becomes part of us as well.

As mentioned, the best examples of our collective agreements are seen in our social, economic, political and religious affiliations. Our attitudes and opinions about our country, community, economy, and religion all reflect a collective way of thought that began with one and spread to the many. Today, the strongest force behind this collective way of thinking is now the media. Through the power of television, radio, print and the internet, there has never been a time on earth when the opinion and influence of a few can be shared with thousands, even millions of others.

The spiritual meaning of the number _four_ reveals to us that all of this is as it should be. Though man may be the one who establishes a "city" or collective, it was our Father of creation that set the whole process in motion. By nature of our design, we desire relationships and community, for "It is not good that man should be alone" (Gen. 2:18; NKJV). We have done and are doing what we were created to do, and though we may be moving through much chaos, confusion, destruction and misery, the will of God is assured, even in this.

In Nebuchadnezzar's image, the legs are clearly the strength and support of the trunk of the body. So the "work" of male and female, the sowing and reaping of the natural man, is defined in the first three segments while the fourth segment reveals the "fruit" or foundation it creates and which it settles on and seeks to maintain. But as we see, it is an unstable foundation, established on what is temporary and passing away. No wonder Jesus stated, "a _corrupt_ tree bringeth forth _evil_ fruit" (Matt. 7:17; KJV) and John wrote, "The whole world lieth in wickedness" (I John 5:19; KJV).

As we know, _four_ being the number of "material creation" as well as a "foundation," speaks of the _foundation of the world of form_. This agrees with the first four days of creation in Genesis, where the Lord created the visible or natural foundation and then brought into being its inhabitants on the fifth and sixth days. This confirms that the foundation of our natural man is attached to what we can see, but is necessary in the evolution of God's determined purpose.

Luke 6:47-49 (NKJV)

Whoever comes to me, and hears my **sayings** and does them, I will show you whom he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the **rock**. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the **rock**. But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great."

The Greek word for "sayings" in verse 47 above is the word _logos_. This is the same Greek word translated as "word" in the Parable of the Sower as well as in John 1:1. "In the beginning was the Word (logos; seed; sayings), and the Word (logos; seed; sayings) was with God, and the Word (logos; seed; sayings) was God." So Jesus spoke of both hearing and doing that which has been said by God and is God, His wisdom or "light" seen on each "Day" of creation (Gen. 1:3, 5). These "sayings" are the "rock" of Christ, the Spirit and wisdom of God, the true and secure inner foundation on which we can settle (I Cor. 10:4), symbolized as the "stone" that was "cut out of the mountain without hands" (Dan. 2:45; NKJV). No wonder Paul wrote, "By faith Abraham... _looked for a city which hath foundations_ , _whose builder and maker is God_ " (Heb. 8:8-10; KJV).

No doubt, mankind is a restless creation (Isa. 17:12-13; Psalms 2:1), and just as the legs are used to move the body, the soul of man is always seeking, exploring, wanting, never truly content from one moment to the next. Is it out of our desire to discover meaning? And after so long a time in this world, do we awaken to realize that the state of being that we have known for so long has failed to bring to us any lasting purpose? Do we find that the foundation upon which we were taught to settle has ultimately failed us? This seems to be the case. And this point and time of discovery is different for each one.

As we have seen, Cain reveals the first segment of the law of sowing and reaping, a "tiller of the ground," that which Paul defined as "he who sows to the flesh." In the Strong's Concordance, the definition of "Cain" reads, "the same as H7013 (qayin) (with a play upon the affinity to H7069 (qanah))." H7069 reads, "a primitive root; to _erect_ , i.e. _create_ ; by extension to _procure_ , especially by purchase (causitive _sell_ ); by implication to _own_." So in this name we also have the idea of _buying and selling_ (which points to Revelation 13:17 and the "mark" of the beast). This also suggests the idea of _ownership_ which stands in direct opposition to the nature of temporal things. The truth is, we have and never will own anything in this visible world simply because it will eventually fade in one fashion or another. Of course, I am not suggesting that it is wrong to buy or sell anything, but I am suggesting that the mental construct of "ownership" is illusory at best, for it is one of the underlying reasons for so much of our suffering in this world. Those things we gain and lose in this world can never define the true essence of who we are (Luke 12:15-21).

### CHAPTER EIGHT

Death

Mark 4:26-29 (NKJV)

And He said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the **seed** (1) should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: **first the blade** (2), then **the head** (3), after that **the full grain in the head** ( **4** ). But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come."

The first mention of the word "death" is found in Genesis 21:16, however, the first mention of the word "die" is found in Genesis 2:17, in reference to the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Remember that the third element of the fruit of this tree denotes its wisdom, but if we add the "seed" to this as in our parable in Mark, Chapter 4, then the _fourth_ thing becomes the "fruit," the "full grain in the head." When we do this, we now see all the stages from the "seed" to the "fruit," from the beginning to the end of the cycle of sowing and reaping. Since _four_ is the number of "material creation," we have all the stages of creation as well. So this confirms our beginning in this world as a _natural_ creation in agreement with I Corinthians 15:46.

Once we arrive at the "full grain in the head" we read, "Immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come." Once maturity is reached, the process of sowing is finished and the process of reaping follows. We are "rendered" according to our deeds (Rom. 2:6). What was sown and began as "corruptible" is then reaped as "corruption" (I Peter 1:23).

Without a doubt, death is the most misunderstood concept of our existence. Just the word itself carries a certain connotation that most of us avoid. We don't like talking about it or dealing with the reality of it. But the fact remains that it is an integral part of our existence, not just in the realm of humanity, but in all other kingdoms as well. Hebrews 2:15 tells us that we are subject to bondage our entire lives through "fear of death" and I believe our fear of it is because of our lack of understanding it.

So what do we mean by death? Earlier, we defined it as _the temporary life of all form_ and I must stay with this definition. Though it may seem a paradox, death _is actually a form of life_ , albeit temporary because it is subject to corruption.

If we live for any length of time on this planet, all of us learn that the human form eventually reaches maturity and declines from there. We call this _aging_ , which is the biological process of the growth and decay of our physical being. So is this what was meant by the Lord when He told Adam, "for in the day that you eat of it _you shall surely die_ " (Gen. 2:17; NKJV)? I'm not sure that it is. However, the death that came through Adam does relate to this physical form due to the fact that it refers to the state of being in our mind and heart where we sow to it and thus reap the corruption or temporary life of it. The death which Adam experienced illustrates the desires of the mind and heart which are completely absorbed in the things which are seen. This is why John wrote, "For _all_ that is in the world—the lust (longing; strong desires) of the flesh, the lust (longing; strong desires) of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust (longing; strong desires) of it" (I John 2:15; NKJV). Clearly, John is addressing what goes on in the outward man of our soul concerning those things which we relate to in this visible realm. So no wonder Christ said, "He is not the God of the dead, but _the God of the living_ " (Mark 12:27; NKJV), and again, "God is a Spirit," (John 4:24; KJV). Eternal life is found in the inner realm of spirit and not in the outer realm of the soul, for "that which is born of the Spirit _is_ spirit" (John 3:6; KJV).

If we take time to consider it, we will find that all of the physical elements of this world are impermanent and designed to pass away. None of it is destined to remain and this includes our human bodies. This "death" was instituted by our Creator and is seen in all of nature as the sowing of seed, followed by the birth, changing, maturing and eventual passing of what was sown. It is by nature of its existence in everything we see, _completely normal_. But the "death" which the Bible addresses, speaks of the mind and heart which is set on these temporary elements and embraces them as its purpose and meaning. As Paul wrote, the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not are eternal (II Cor. 4:18), therefore "eternal" life refers to what cannot pass away, to the "fruit of _the Spirit_ ," which "is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" (Gal. 5:22; KJV).

Genesis 1:1-5 (KJV)

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and **darkness** was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and **God divided the light from the darkness**. And God called the light Day, and **the darkness he called Night**. And **the evening and the morning** were the first day.

Ephesians 5:8 (NKJV)

For **you were once darkness** , but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.

To emphasize, the Bible definition of "death" seems to refer to the temporary existence of all that is natural, to those things which are here for a time but by nature of their design are destined to pass away. Notice in the beginning in Genesis 1:2 that "the earth was _without form_ , and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep." From there, our heavenly Father _began to give form to the earth_ , in the darkness in which it existed, beginning with "Let there be light," the wisdom and creative power of God necessary to fashion form out of darkness (remember, this is not the light of the sun, moon, or stars, for that was done on the fourth day of creation). Once God said, "Let there be light" He then "saw the light, that it was good: and God _divided the light from the darkness_. And God called the light Day, and _the darkness_ He called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day." This division of light from darkness illustrates _the division of the formless from that which was form_ , the _invisible from that which is visible_. He then finished the foundation of the natural world on the fourth day of creation with the natural light of the sun, moon, and stars which is needed for all form to survive for its designated time. This reveals to us that behind all form is the invisible essence or "light" of our Creator, the Spirit which brought it into existence and gives it being.

So what is found on each "day" of creation? Not morning and evening, but _evening and morning_ (Gen. 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31), signifying _darkness_ or _Night_. This shows that all that God created in the natural realm is "darkness," _symbolic of death_ or _its temporary nature_. _Darkness_ and _death_ are synonymous and refer to the form-based world in which we dwell. The fact that it is darkness does not necessarily make it evil, but only emphasizes the point that it is designed to pass away; it needs light to survive while on this planet. So we can confirm by this that the mind set on the form-based world is the mind set on _darkness_ or _death_ , on _what is temporary_ (Matt. 4:16; John 1:5; Rom. 13:12; Eph. 5:8).

So allow me to emphasize what we are considering—the definition of death refers to the temporary life of all form. This is by no means, something wrong about our existence. Rather, it is a part of the necessary process of sowing and reaping for the continuation of each generation, of all visible things. All kingdoms were designed in accordance with this principle, and just like the seed of plants, insects and animals, our human bodies begin in "seed" form and are destined to go through this same process that ends in our passing from this physical plane. There is nothing out of character about this. On the other hand, the death which is illustrated in Genesis speaks of the mind and heart which is moved to sin because its priority becomes this human form and its desires for "all that is in the world" (I John 2:15-17). Though we learn very early in life that we can pass from this earthly plane at any time, that there are no guarantees of even the next moment, many of us form such deep attachments to it that we are willing to go to great lengths to satisfy its deceptive longings. So Adam's trespass did not bring physical death into this world; rather, it brought in _the death of the soul_ (Ezek. 18:4), a _state of being_ (Eph. 2:1-3) where the mind and heart defines its purpose solely by the visible realm. It is this which is characterized by the legs of iron in Nebuchadnezzar's dream.

At this point, we must consider again if the soul or self, like the human form in which it is contained, is also a temporary component of our existence. I am inclined to think so. After all, the soul is a result of our human form, developed from our identity with this body and all that relates to it. But like the human form to which it clings, it is a temporary life designed to pass away. When it passes, it moves from death to life, changing from self to selflessness, becoming one with _the Spirit_ from which it was derived. So Paul wrote, "So when this corruptible," or _temporary life of the soul_ , " shall have put on incorruption," _the eternal life of the Spirit_ , "and this mortal," that which is destined to pass away, "shall have put on immortality," that which cannot pass away, "then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, ' _Death_ is swallowed up in victory'" (I Cor. 15:54; KJV). Paul quotes from the book of Isaiah.

Isaiah 25:7-9 (KJV)  
And he will destroy in this mountain the face of the covering cast over all people, and the vail that is spread over all nations. **He will swallow up death in victory** ; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the Lord hath spoken _it_. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this _is_ our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this _is_ the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

When I read these passages, I cannot help but think of the New Covenant in Hebrews 8:10-12, which corresponds with these passages.

Consider the word "veil" (Vail) in verse 7. This word is defined as, "properly a _pouring_ over, i.e. _fusion_ of metal (especially a _cast_ image)." Does this reference to "metal" relate to the "iron" seen in our image?

1 Corinthians 15:22 (KJV)

For **as in Adam all die** , even so in Christ shall all be made alive.

Romans 5:12-14 (NKJV)

Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned--(For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. **Nevertheless death reigned** from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.

Al Bartlett, Professor of Physics at the University of Colorado said, "The greatest shortcoming of the human race is our inability to understand the exponential function." So when we read, " _Just as_ through one man" and " _for as_ in Adam," we are seeing how the one man, Adam, _is set forth as an example of all of us_. The phrases "for as" and "just as" brings it down to a personal level and the phrase "death spread to all men" shows how the wisdom of the self, like a seed, germinates and spreads to influence others.

And what have we discovered in the story of Adam? Paul makes it clear to us in I Corinthians 15:46. "The spiritual is not first, _but the natural_ , and afterward the spiritual" (NKJV). So in Adam we see the creation of the natural man in the _one_ so that we may understand it in the _many_. For this reason, Paul continues his thought, stating that " _death spread to all men_ , because all sinned." "Just as" the first man Adam entered into the temporary life of the soul (death), so do all of us. The death of the one exemplifies the death of the many and again we must understand that it was a matter of divine intention.

In Romans 5:13, note how Paul makes it clear that, "For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death _reigned_ from Adam to Moses." This word, "reigned" is the Greek word _basileuō_ and means, "to _rule_ ," taken from the word _basileus_ which means, "(through the notion of a _foundation_ of power); a _sovereign_ (abstract, relative or figurative)." Doesn't this agree with our _fourth_ kingdom of iron _as being_ a kingdom? So even though the law was not present and sin was not imputed, we are told "death reigned." Why? Because it is an integral and necessary part of the process of sowing and reaping established _before_ man was created and _before_ the law was given. Though a written law was yet to be evident, the dynamics of sowing and reaping was already established as a fundamental part of humankind's existence.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

**Train up** a child **in the way** he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Remember, _Enoch_ means "initiated" and comes from the same Hebrew word used for the phrase "train up." In the process of training is found the discipline needed to do so. The phrase "in the way" is the Hebrew word _derek_ and means, "a _road_ (as _trodden_ ); figurative a _course_ of life or _mode_ of action." Look once more at these passages from Hebrews, Chapter 12.

Hebrews 12:5-11 (NIV)

And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: "My son, **do not make light of the Lord's discipline** , and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." **Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons**. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but **God disciplines us for our good** , that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, **it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it**.

Just as our earthly fathers discipline us when we are children, so does our heavenly Father. Notice that our discipline is called "hardship," and who of us doesn't experience difficulties in life? And aren't these difficulties often a result of our own choices? And isn't this the reason for discipline? To change the way we think and then move us to choose differently? Is it not to correct our resistance, whether it be out of ignorance or rebellion?

If what we are considering is true, then the difficulty of accepting these passages is in realizing that _suffering has a purpose in our lives_. Yet how many times have we found ourselves going through something and questioning why or viewing it as not being fair? But Hebrews makes it clear. "The Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son," and, "everyone undergoes discipline." So couldn't we say that our suffering is never without purpose and always out of love?

James 5:9-11 (NIV)

**Don't grumble against each other** , brothers, or you will be judged. The judge is standing at the door! Brothers, **as an example of patience in the face of suffering** , take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

John 16:33 (NKJV)

These things I have spoken to you, that in me you may have peace. **In the world you will have tribulation** ; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

Acts 14:22 (KJV)

Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that **we must through much tribulation** enter into the kingdom of God.

Romans 5:3-4 (AMP)

Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] **let us exult and triumph in our troubles** and **rejoice in our sufferings** , knowing that **pressure** and **affliction** and **hardship** produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation.

Remember, the "natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him" (I Cor. 2:14; NKJV). So when we consider that suffering has a purpose, our first inclination is to resist this idea. Yet James writes, "Don't grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged." In other words, it is not necessary to assign blame for our hardship or difficulties. Rather, it is enough to understand that the hand of our Creator is in it. As Jesus stated, "In the world _you will have tribulation_ ," it is unavoidable, "but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Would part of overcoming be in the knowing that our suffering is but our "light affliction" (II Cor. 4:17; NKJV) which, when finished, "produces _a harvest_ of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it?"

Our suffering is reflected in the "corruption" or "decay" of the temporary nature of the soul. Not only does this denote the perishing of our natural life, but also the adversity we experience while going through it. In other words, it is an _ongoing_ and _remedial_ process that continues until its purpose is accomplished. This purpose is the renewal of "the inward man" of spirit which speaks of the spiritual body (I Cor. 15:44). Our passages in Hebrews confirm this in the statement, "the Father of our _spirits_." It is the _spirit_ which our Creator renews, using "our light affliction" of the soul as the means to do so. It is critical at this point to remember that the death we refer to is the state of being in which we move (Eph. 2:1) until such time as we "have _passed_ from death to life, _because we love the brethren_." This word, "passed" in I John 3:14 means "to _change place_ " and suggests moving from the position of sowing to our _own_ flesh to an altogether different position of sowing to _the_ Spirit. Both positions operate by the same principle of sowing and reaping, however, what is sown and reaped is distinctly opposite.

Genesis 4:8 (NKJV)

Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that **Cain rose up against Abel his brother** and killed him.

As we have considered, Cain symbolizes the "natural man." So wouldn't it follow that Abel represents the "spiritual man?" Wasn't he called "a keeper of sheep," denoting the mind and heart of Christ? Now, if this is true, then this suggests that _there is a duality of being in all of us_ , the natural and the spiritual. Should we doubt this, consider the inner conflict that is so often a matter of routine in our daily lives. Doesn't our inward struggle between right and wrong eventually manifest in our choices?

The story of Cain and Abel is a brief but specific story of brothers and some have suggested that Cain and Abel were twins. Genesis 4:2 gives credence to this idea, for we read after the birth of Cain that Eve, "again bare his brother Abel," and it doesn't state that "Adam _knew_ Eve his wife" another time. In light of our study, this would make sense. Cain, the firstborn, symbolizes the natural body while Abel, his twin, symbolizes the spiritual body. Both are conceived at the same time because we are both natural and spiritual creations when we come into this world, however the formation of the knowledge and understanding of the natural "man" takes place _before_ the formation of the knowledge and understanding of the spiritual "man" as we are told in I Corinthians 15:46. The story of Cain and Abel is a symbolic presentation of the outward man of our soul or self and the inward man of our spirit or divine essence.

We then read in Genesis 4:8 that, "Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field," or _world_ (Matt. 13:38), "that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him." Does this show that the natural man of our being who is linked to "all that is in the world" (I John 2:16; KJV) resists the spiritual man of our being because he isn't?

So let's also consider Adam's _third_ son Seth in our presentation (Gen. 4:25). We have seen that the name "Cain" means, " _fixity_ ; a _lance_ (as _striking fast_ )." The name "Abel" means, " _emptiness_ or _vanity_ ; figurative of something _transitory_ and _unsatisfactory_." In contrast, Abel and Cain reflect the "good" and "evil" of the tree of knowledge respectively, but the "good" of this tree as illustrated by Abel requires a _transition_ , a movement from the "good" life of the soul _through the experience of its death_ so that we may discover the "eternal" life of the Spirit. This transition is illustrated by Cain rising up against Abel, our natural being taking dominion over our spiritual being until, through the death of our soul or self, we arrive at Seth, whose name means, " _put_ , i.e. _substituted_ ," from the word which means, "to _place_." So we read, "And Adam _knew his wife again_ , and she bore a son and named him _Seth_ , 'For God has appointed _another seed_ for me instead of Abel, whom Cain killed'" (Gen. 4:25; NKJV). This phrase "another seed for me" represents the sacrifice of the Lord and the life-giving Spirit of Christ (Gal. 3:16), the anointing or _Spirit of truth, which_ proceeds from the Father (John 15:26), "having been born again (from above), not of corruptible seed," _the temporary life of the soul_ , "but incorruptible," the _eternal life of the Spirit_ , "through the Word of God which lives and abides forever" (I Peter 1:23; NKJV). Furthermore, "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us ( _substituted_ ), that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" (II Cor. 5:21; NKJV). So Paul wrote, " _I have been crucified_ with Christ; it is no longer _I who live_ , but Christ lives in me ( _substituted_ ); and the life which _I now live in the flesh_ I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Gal. 2:20; NKJV). The entrance of Christ into this world presents the "standing up again" of life as illustrated by Seth and reflected by the resurrection of Christ. This shows that eternal life cannot be known without going through the suffering of the death that precedes it. It has always been necessary for us to _learn by experience_ (which is how the word "serpent" is translated once in the King James version of scripture; see Genesis 30:27).

James 1:5-8 (NKJV)

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a **double-minded** man, unstable in all his ways.

The phrase "double-minded" is the word _dipsychos_ meaning, " _two-spirited_ , i.e. _vacillating_ (in opinion or purpose)," the word "vacillating" meaning "to swing indecisively from one course of action or opinion to another" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). Wouldn't this agree with our presentation of Cain, Abel and Seth?

Daniel 7:7 (NKJV)

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, **a fourth beast** , dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong. It had huge **iron teeth** ; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and **it had ten horns**.

I believe Daniel's dream and vision in Chapter 7, though different in its presentation, is a parallel to Nebuchadnezzar's dream, showing " _four_ great beasts" which "came up from the sea, each different from the other" (Dan. 7:3). These _four_ beasts correlate with the _four_ metals in our image. "The first was like a lion," the second "like a bear," while the third was "like a leopard" (Dan. 7:4-6; NKJV). Finally, we see Daniel's description of "a _fourth_ beast, dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong. It had huge _iron_ teeth; it was devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling the residue with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns." The fact that this was a "fourth" beast with "huge _iron_ teeth" which was "devouring, breaking in pieces, and trampling" agrees with our _fourth_ component of the _legs of iron_ in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Do we not trample with the legs and feet? Note that the "teeth" are "iron," _signifying the power of death in the tongue_ (Prov. 18:21; James 3:5-10). We should also point out that the description of this dream and vision also agrees with John's vision of "a beast rising up out of the sea" in Revelation, Chapter 13.

1 Thessalonians 5:23 (KJV)

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole **spirit** and **soul** and **body** be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I Thessalonians shows that we are primarily _three_ components; spirit, soul and body. Various passages throughout the Old and New Testament make this distinction between spirit and soul, which shows they are not the same. In I Thessalonians 5:23, the word for "spirit" is _pneuma_ , the word for "soul" is _psyche_ , and the word for "body" is _soma_.

1 Corinthians 2:14 (NKJV)

But the **natural** man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

In this passage, the word "natural" is _psychics_ , derived from our word _psyche_ or "soul" in the previous passage. This connection between "natural" and "soul" confirms that the "natural man" is the state of being where the mind is set on the human form and equates to the soul being the "self" that we are defining in this study.

Ezekiel 18:4 (NKJV)

"Behold, **all souls are Mine** ; The soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is Mine; **the soul who sins shall die**.

Ezekiel 18:4 reads, "The _soul_ who sins shall die." This shows us that the soul _is_ a "self," capable of sinning, thus able _to do_ what brings death. And Romans 3:23 states that "all have sinned," thus all have died. And what is it that dies? The soul. But as we now know, this is predetermined, for "it is _appointed_ unto men once to die" (Heb. 9:27; KJV). And we also read, "Behold, all souls are Mine," showing that as we pass through this process, all belong to the Father of creation, there are no exceptions.

So if my theory is correct, the "natural body" speaks of the human form and the mind or self focused on its existence. Both begin as a "seed," the human form passing through the "darkness" of the "ground" or womb of our mother to eventually emerge into the natural light of this form-based world. The soul, like the body, must also pass through darkness and emerge into light, for nature and the Lord make it clear; a seed _must fall into the ground and die or it remains alone_ ; and "it is not good that man _should be alone_ " (Gen. 2:18; NKJV). This confirms our second segment of death as a necessary and vital part of the process. As we pass through this darkness or temporary life of the self, it is so we might once again discover our connection to the Source of life from which we were divided. Just as Eve was _divided_ from Adam in order _to become one with him_ , we were _divided_ from our Source so that we might _become one with Him_. This "oneness" translates in this natural world as a love or desire for the well-being of all things, for the Spirit connects all that exists, both visible and invisible. No wonder John wrote, "If someone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother _whom he has seen_ , how can he love God _whom he has not seen_ " (I John 4:20; NKJV)?

So indulge me for a moment and let me reemphasize what we have considered. Just as the human body begins as a living seed sown into the darkness of our mother's womb to emerge into the light of this physical realm, so must the soul pass through the same process of the seed dying in order for its life to appear. Amazingly, the human body begins _without identifiable form_ , but within nine short months, comes into the world with all of the physical components that make it human. Uninterrupted, this shaping continues as we grow from _infancy_ to _childhood_ to _youth_ to _adolescence_ to _manhood_ to _decline_ , and finally, to _senility_ (child, boy, lad, young man, man, old man, aged man) (Bullinger's Number in Scripture; note that there are _seven_ stages). Perhaps in the same way, the soul begins _without identifiable form, but_ takes it on as the mind and heart absorb knowledge, understanding, and experience once we enter into this physical realm. Like the outward process, the inward formation of the soul is shaped through the knowledge and understanding sown into us from those who are responsible for our development. And just as the physical body takes on the characteristics of mother and father, becoming the human form by which we are recognized, the soul takes on the characteristics of the self developed by the knowledge, understanding, and experience of this world into which we came. Gradually, this becomes the outward expression by which we are recognized. As illustrated by the story of Adam, it is during this process of the formation of the soul or self that we "fall" as Adam fell, we "die" as Adam died, not because we choose to do it but because the process assures it. This is not a physical death, but a progressive movement into a _state of being_ in which we conduct ourselves in "trespasses and sins" (Eph. 2:1), which aptly describes the temporary life and nature of the self in all of us. This process continues throughout our lives as the "outward man" of body and soul matures to then "perish" while the "inward man" of spirit is effectively "renewed day by day" (II Cor. 4:16).

In reference to the "inward man," Paul used the word "renewed" because our spirit cannot die or pass away. This is why the "death" of our spiritual body is likened as "sleep" (Gen. 2:21; 15:12; Deut. 31:16; II Sam. 7:12; Job 4:13; Psalms 13:13; John 11:11, 13; Acts 13:36; I Thess. 5:6, 7, 10). When we sleep, we do not cease to exist, we are simply in a state of semi-consciousness because we are in need of rest or renewal, of revitalization. But while sleeping, we are in "darkness" because our eyes are closed and we are not completely aware of our surroundings. So Paul wrote, "Therefore _let us not sleep_ , as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For _they that sleep sleep in the night_ " (I Thess. 5:6; KJV). The word "watch" means, "to _keep awake_." "Sleep" therefore, refers to the _semi-consciousness_ of our _spirit_ while the _soul_ is completely absorbed in the darkness or "night" of the form-based world.

Unlike the tree of knowledge of good and evil, the tree of life shows no opposite. This shows that the _Spirit of truth is eternal_ (Matt. 24:35) and _its essence cannot pass away_ , for it is the substance of our Creator. This is why Christ and the apostles defined this life _as_ "eternal." So when our spirit is awakened, we are able to walk in this life and nature that cannot pass away or "die." Look once more at our passages from Proverbs 18:21.

Proverbs 18:20-21 (NKJV)

**A man's stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth, from the produce of his lips he shall be filled**. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, **and those who love it** (either death or life) will eat its fruit.

Matthew 7:17-20 (KJV)

Even so **every good tree bringeth forth good fruit** ; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. **A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit** , neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

Note that Proverbs tells us that "A man's _stomach shall be satisfied_ from _the fruit of his mouth_ , from _the produce of his lips_ he shall be filled," showing that what we say or "sow," the expression of our wisdom, is motivated by our "appetite" or _desire_ within. So we see that what we love will determine which "seed" we sow and which "fruit" we eat. This confirms the element of affection or desire which is present in what we say (and do; speaking is an action). John confirms this, stating, "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but _men loved darkness_ instead of light because _their deeds_ were evil" (John 3:19; NIV). Along with our understanding of corruption, this confirms our presentation of Cain and Abel, the soul and spirit, and reveals that a "corrupt tree" defines _the temporary life of the soul_ while a "good tree" defines _the eternal life of the Spirit_. This is why John wrote that we must "pass" from death to life, leaving behind all vestiges of the self-interests that prevent life from being known and seen in its fullness. We cannot mix God's wisdom with the world's wisdom, our carnal mind with His mind. It must be one or the other (Rom. 8:6).

Acts 2:1-3 (KJV)

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

One of the most important events recorded in scripture was the "day of Pentecost." This followed as a result of Jesus commanding His disciples to "not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence" (Acts 1:4-5; KJV). Clearly His disciples understood the importance of what He had commanded them, for we read, "When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And He said unto them, 'It is not for you to know the _times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power_. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth'" (Acts 1:6-8; KJV).

In obedience to His instructions, the disciples returned from the "mount called Olivet" to Jerusalem and waited in an "upper room" until "the day of Pentecost was fully come." As our passages read, "there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them _cloven_ tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them." The word "cloven" means "to _partition thoroughly_ ," in other words, _to completely divide one thing from another_. Here I see a complete separation of death _from_ life in the power of their tongues, for we read "cloven tongues," the definition of "tongues" given as "the _tongue_ ; by implication a _language_." As a result of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, death was swallowed up by life and then spoken from their mouths as "other tongues" (Acts 1:4), giving forth the pure and incorruptible "fruit" of the Spirit of Christ Himself. This resulted in all of them declaring the "wonderful works of God" (Acts 1:11) and adding "about _three_ thousand souls" through the empowered preaching of the apostle Peter (Acts 1:41), the number _three_ giving testimony that it was truly the divine _work_ of the Spirit of God through the apostles.

Paul wrote, "For He must reign, till He hath put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death" (I Cor. 15:25-26; KJV). The Spirit of truth is the spirit of divine love, not to be confused with human love and its aspects. Divine love proceeds from selflessness whereas human love proceeds from self. Like all things natural, the love that proceeds from the soul is corruptible, temporary and fleeting, but divine love, because it proceeds from the spirit, is not. The divine love that flows out of selflessness is the only component that can destroy death, for it imparts to us the ability to lay down our lives by taking away our fear of death and so our resistance to it (John 10:17-18).

It is my theory that the baptism of the Holy Spirit as seen on the day of Pentecost was the impartation of this divine love in the apostles. Though this event was most certainly of great import and gives us much to consider, it was not meant to be a precedent as to how this occurs. That is left to our heavenly Father. There are no techniques that guarantee this experience, for God through Christ alone is the author and finisher of the process we are defining. The "times" and the "seasons" are in His hand (Acts 1:7).

Ecclesiastes 7:1 (NKJV)

A good name is better than precious ointment, and **the day of death** than the day of one's birth...

Ecclesiastes 8:8 (AMP)

There is **no man who has power over the spirit to retain the breath of life** , neither has he power over **the day of death** ; and there is no discharge in battle [against death], neither will wickedness deliver those who are its possessors and given to it.

So let's be honest. Most of us are afraid to die. And yet, if the Bible is correct, then _we have already_ died and _are dying_ , both the human form and our self are passing away. But if the law of sowing and reaping is indeed universal and part of our Creator's divine purpose, then this element of death is an essential component and has a much greater purpose than what we realize. For this reason, we read in Ecclesiastes that our "day of death" is "better" than "the day of one's birth." Our continued resistance to the death of the self is the reason for all of our suffering and can be defined simply _as the eradication of our previous way of thinking and behavior_. What evolves from this state of mind are all the imaginations that devise the boundaries that give us the illusion that we are separate from our Maker and one another. But we are not and never have been.

The mind of form (self) fears and resists death and does everything it can to prevent it. The evidence of this is easily seen in the areas of science and medicine as man endeavors to find ways to prolong his physical time here on earth. Who would have thought that we would reach a place where such things as cloning would become a reality or that stem cell research would arrive at the forefront of our scientific discoveries? But, there "is no man who has power over the spirit to retain the breath of life." There is no wisdom that can supersede or have "power over the day of death." Man's resistance to God's design are fruitless in the end.

There can be no doubt that our search for purpose and meaning has brought amazing discoveries to light, but man's attempt at preserving the human form has failed. Why? Because our true purpose and meaning will not be found in it. The logic of this is seen in the understanding that it begins dying once it reaches maturity. In fact, the entire world of form as we know it, is continually moving through this same cycle of the seed which dies, then rises to form and change, only to pass away and leave behind the "seeds" of another generation to take its place. Without a doubt, it is divinely ordained and cannot be changed by any of our efforts.

### CHAPTER NINE

The Feet of Iron and Clay

Daniel 2:33 (KJV)

... his **feet part of iron and part of clay**.

Daniel 2:41-43 (NKJV)

Whereas you saw the **feet and toes** , partly of potter's clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay.

We have now considered the head of fine gold, the breast and arms of silver, the belly and thighs of brass, and the legs of iron. This brings us to the final part of the image, the "feet part of iron and part of clay."

In our first chapter, we showed how the elements and body parts were numbered. Let's look at this again.

Daniel 2:32-33 (KJV)

This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass, his legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay.

1. Head

2. Breast

3. Arms

4. Belly

5. Thighs

6. Legs

7. Feet

1. Fine gold

2. Silver

3. Brass

4. Iron

5. Clay

Here's Daniel's description in Daniel 2:32-33:

1. Head of Fine Gold

2. Breast and Arms of Silver

3. Belly and Thighs of Brass

4. Legs of Iron

5. Feet Part of Iron and Part of Clay

Nebuchadnezzar's image is seen as _seven_ body parts and _five_ elements. As we know, _seven_ is the number for _spiritual completeness_ , so when we arrive at the feet we have _completed_ the image; the maturity of the natural man is seen in the outward deeds that are the result of his inward knowledge, understanding, wisdom and purpose. Since _five_ is the number of _sin_ or _grace_ , when we arrive at the feet, we arrive at the end of the image and thus see man's "walk," his _movement_ or _conduct_ as one of sin _and_ grace, of both good _and_ evil as symbolized by the tree of knowledge.

When we add the _seven_ and _five_ together, we have _twelve_ , the number of "governmental perfection," or we could say the _divine_ or _spiritual government_ of our Creator (we also arrive at this number when we add the _two_ feet with the _ten_ toes). This shows the divine government of the living and creative Word of God, the energy and force of sowing and reaping by which all creation was established and the hierarchy and government by which it moves.

The feet are the _fifth_ segment given in our passage in Daniel 2:33, but we must also consider that there are _two_ feet, each with _five_ toes (Dan. 2:41-42). _Two_ is the number of _division_ as well as _witness_ or _testimony_ , so we see in the feet _the testimony of the living Word of God_ as seen in man and his conduct _in both sin_ and _grace, division_ and _witness_. The toes of the two feet add up to _ten_ , the number which means that "the whole cycle is complete," that "nothing is wanting" (Bullinger). Look once more at Bullinger's description of this number.

It has been already pointed out that _ten_ is one of the perfect numbers, and signifies _the perfection of Divine order_ , commencing, as it does, an altogether new series of numbers. The first decade is the representative of the whole numeral system, and originates the system of calculation called "decimals," because the whole system of numeration consists of so many _tens_ , of which the first is a type of the whole.

Completeness of order, marking the entire round of anything, is, therefore, the ever-present signification of the number _ten_. It implies that nothing is wanting; that the number and order are perfect; that the whole cycle is complete.

It is interesting to note that _ten_ immediately brings to mind the _Ten_ Commandments (Exod. 20:1-17) which signifies humankind's measure of responsibility (sowing) and its judgment or reward (reaping). In _ten_ we see the number _four_ , the "world" number and _six_ , the number of "man," and two _fives_ , indicating _sin_ and _grace_ , which typifies our existence on this earthly plane. Not surprisingly, there were _ten_ patriarchs before the flood (Gen., Chapter 5) and _ten_ plagues upon Egypt through Moses. In the book of the Revelation, _ten_ figures prominently in its understanding (Rev. 2:10; 5:11; 12:3; 13:1; 17:3, 7, 12, 16).

Even as the first ten is a "type of the whole" (Bullinger), so is the "first man Adam" (I Cor. 15:45). As we have discovered, this is explained by the exponential function of one to many (Rom. 5:12). Remember, Nebuchadnezzar, the "head of gold" (Dan. 2:38), was king of the Babylonian empire, representing both the individual and the collective at the same time.

There are _two_ feet with _five_ toes on each foot. Again, the feet denote our "walk" or conduct, the "push" of our will and purpose in both sin (5) and grace (5), flesh and spirit, for our Maker is never far from any one of us at any time (Acts 17:27). This confirms the _testimony_ or _witness_ of the living Word of God (Christ) as is seen in humankind for regardless of where we are in this spiritual process, whether darkness or light, we bear witness of the living truth of our Creator (Isa. 45:7), of the law of sowing and reaping, for all of this was created "by Him, and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him _all things_ consist" (Col. 1:16-17). "Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from you, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to you" (Psalms 139:12; NKJV). Despite our ignorance of spiritual matters, there is no one outside the scope of our Creator's eternal purpose.

Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that **He is a rewarder** of those who diligently seek Him.

Like a circle that begins and ends at the same point, so ten represents this complete cycle, revealing to us that the Ten Commandments are a synopsis of humankind's responsibility to their Maker and to one another. The Ten Commandments are clearly an evidentiary presentation of sowing and reaping. Ten being _twice_ five also signifies the _witness_ or _testimony_ and _division_ or _resistance_ to this divine principle. Doesn't this agree with the idea of reward seen in Hebrews 11:6? Doesn't our disobedience to the law also give testimony of God's process as much as our obedience? So whether we walk in sin or not, we bear witness of the law as typified by the principle of sowing and reaping. You see, God is not mocked. We have simply been unaware of the very thing that is continually working in our midst.

The feet are an _extension_ of the legs where the iron continues and is seen with clay. Consider the following information from webmd.com.

The feet are flexible structures of bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues that let us stand upright and perform activities like walking, running, and jumping. The feet are divided into three sections:

The forefoot contains the five toes (phalanges) and the five longer bones (metatarsals).

The midfoot is a pyramid-like collection of bones that form the arches of the feet. These include the three cuneiform bones, the cuboid bone, and the navicular bone.

The hind foot forms the heel and ankle. The talus bone supports the leg bones (tibia and fibula), forming the ankle. The calcaneus (heel bone) is the largest bone in the foot.

Muscles, tendons, and ligaments run along the surfaces of the feet, allowing the complex movements needed for motion and balance. The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscle and is essential for running, jumping, and standing on the toes.

As we can see, the feet are the part of the body needed for motion and balance and work in conjunction with the legs, so the iron in the legs continues into the feet. Since the iron signifies humankind's state of being in the temporary life of the soul, what we have now defined as the death and dying of the self, then the feet represent the _push_ or _movement_ of humankind in this state of being. But remember how this state of being is illustrated; through the first man Adam and the eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. So let's revisit this "tree" for a better understanding.

Genesis 3:6 (NKJV)

So when the woman saw that the tree was **good for food** , that it was **pleasant to the eyes** , and **a tree desirable to make one wise** , she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate.

Previously, we looked at the tree of knowledge and found _three_ elements; "good for food," "pleasant to the eyes," and "desirable to make one wise." We've described this as knowledge, understanding, and wisdom which agrees with our presentation of the head of fine gold (thought/knowledge), the breast and arms of silver (heart/understanding), and the belly and thighs of brass (knowledge coupled with understanding and producing wisdom via experience; the soul or self formed by sowing and reaping). Now, consider these three elements in light of the following passages.

1 John 2:15-17 (NKJV)

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the **lust of the flesh** , the **lust of the eyes** , and the **pride of life** —is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

_Three_ points to the "full grain in the head" (Mark 4:28), the mature plant which shows the "work" of the seed, and shows why there are _three_ elements in the tree of knowledge of good and evil summarized as " _all_ that is in the world" in our passage in I John 2:16. "Good for food" agrees with "the lust" or longing "of the flesh." "Pleasant to the eyes" agrees with "the lust" or longing "of the eyes," and "desirable to make one wise" correlates with "the pride of life." This phrase "pride of life" deserves our attention. It is better defined by the New International Version as "the boasting of what he (man or humankind) _has_ and _does_."

1 John 2:16 (NIV)

For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and **the boasting of what he has and does** —comes not from the Father but from the world.

Let's create a simple list that helps with our presentation.

The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

1. Good for Food (The Lust of the Flesh)

2. Pleasant to the Eyes (The Lust of the Eyes)

3. Desirable to Make One Wise (The Boasting of What He Has and Does)

Keep in mind that the word "lust" in I John 2:16 means "a _longing_ " and comes from the word which means "to set the _heart upon_ , i.e. _long_ for (rightfully or otherwise)." Doesn't longing involve both the heart and mind?

Now remember, a seed can only reproduce "after its kind" (Gen. 1:11, 12). So if we have a "tree" of knowledge, then it came from a "seed" of knowledge. This is the foundation of thought. When we first come into this world of form, we are a "blank slate," but knowledge comes very quickly as we mature. "All that is in the world" of form begins to find its way into our mind and heart as our desire or "longing" for knowledge is "fed" to us by those around us. The "fruit" of others wisdom becomes the basis upon which we learn and shape our own. Let's change our list to reflect our additional components of knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.

The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

1. Good for Food (The Lust of the Flesh) [Knowledge]

2. Pleasant to the Eyes (The Lust of the Eyes) [Understanding]

3. Desirable to Make One Wise (The Boasting of What He Has and Does) [Wisdom; Experience of the Soul or Self]

What takes place when we receive knowledge and understanding from others? Are they not "sowing" in us as we "reap" from them? Are they not "planting" their knowledge in our mind in hopes that we will soon understand what they do? And as we have seen, this desire for knowledge and understanding is the very essence of what we are. It is an intrinsic part of our being. And once knowledge and understanding are formed in us, then we "reap" the benefits of those things we have come to know through experience (wisdom). Look once more at the following passage.

1 John 2:17 (NKJV)

And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.

Take a moment to think about what John wrote. First, he said, "All that is in the world." Then he defines it as the three elements given in our table. This tells us that the "world," or more specifically, _our world_ , is a place of wisdom in our own mind and heart that relates to this world of form. John Milton wrote, "The _mind is its own place_ and _in itself, can make a Heaven of Hell, a Hell of Heaven_." Ultimately, it is not so much about what is outside of us but how we perceive it from within. Now, in reference to this "world" of which John writes, he tells us "And the world _is passing away_ , and the lust (longing) of it." In other words, our "world" as we know it, both externally and more so internally and by nature of its own existence, _is temporary_. _It is destined to pass away_. This explains why happiness is so elusive to us. It is because deep down, we sense the temporary nature of all things. But, due to how we are cultured in this world, we still seek to find happiness in these temporary elements, in those things which are soon to fade. This is why we read that our "fear of death" holds us in bondage our entire lives (Heb. 2:15). Death is _the passing away of those things which are temporary_ , but the truth is, _they are supposed to_. Nothing in the world of form was designed to last. So when the focus of our knowledge, understanding and wisdom is completely absorbed in what is temporary, we rob ourselves of the inherent sense of this truth and create a discontent that otherwise would not be. Everything in the world of form is only a temporary manifestation of the formless world out of which it came.

Romans 8:1 (NKJV)

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, **who do not walk according to the flesh** , but according to the Spirit.

Romans 8:4-5 (NKJV)

... that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us **who do not walk according to the flesh** but according to the Spirit. **For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh** , but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.

The "feet" of Nebuchadnezzar's image symbolizes our " _walk_ according to the flesh" which is to "live according to the flesh," conducting ourselves after the mind "on the things of the flesh," or temporary things. "To be carnally minded _is_ death" (Rom. 8:6), Paul said, confirming our perspective that it involves how we think and ultimately, what we do. Why is this mind death? Because again, our thinking is consumed by those things which pass away, so when they do, our "world" as we know it is greatly affected by it. We are moved to sorrow because of our loss. No wonder Paul said, "The sorrow of _this world_ produces death" (II Cor. 7:10).

To sum up our perspective, the tree of knowledge of good and evil presents several things which are all connected. As our list indicates, it is the "lusts" or "longing" of those things which pertain to the human form which, when coupled with the idea of ownership, leads to the _boasting_ of what we _have_ and _do_ (I John 2:16: NIV). When we compare the tree of knowledge against the other "trees" of the garden (Gen. 2:9), we will see that this third element of "boasting" (pride of life; KJV) is not mentioned. Consider the following from Vincent's Word Studies in the New Testament.

**The pride of life** (ἡ ἀλαζονεία τοῦ βίου)

Rev., vainglory. The word occurs only here and James 4:16, on which see note. It means, originally, empty, braggart talk or display; swagger; and thence an insolent and vain assurance in one's own resources, or in the stability of earthly things, which issues in a contempt of divine laws. The vainglory of life is the vainglory which belongs to the present life. On βίος life, as distinguished from ζωη life, see on John 1:4.

Vincent's refers to James 4:16. Please consider.

James 4:13-17 (NKJV)

Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, **buy and sell** , and make a profit"; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that." But now you **boast in your arrogance** (rejoice in your boastings; KJV). **All such boasting is evil**. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

Again, consider Vincent's explanation of the word "boastings" in James 4:16.

**Boastings** (ἀλαζονείαις)

Only here and 1 John 2:16. The kindred word ἀλαζών, a _boaster_ , is derived from ἄλη, a _wandering_ or _roaming_ ; hence, primarily, _a vagabond, a quack, a mountebank_. From the empty boasts of such concerning the cures and wonders they could perform, the word passed into the sense of _boaster_. One may boast _truthfully_ ; but ἀλαζονεία is _false_ and _swaggering_ boasting. Rev. renders _vauntings_ , and rightly, since _vaunt_ is from the Latin _vanus_ , _empty_ , and therefore expresses _idle_ or _vain_ boasting.

As Vincent explains, the word "boastings" is only in I John 2:16 and James 4:16. Notice that the kindred word "a boaster" means "a _wandering_ or _roaming_ ," which agrees with Cain in Genesis 4:12, who became "a fugitive and a vagabond." Both of these words mean "to _waver_ " or " _wander_." Again, this quickly reveals the nature of the soul or self, of the mind set on "all that is in the world." This mind is destined to "wander," to question its purpose and meaning of being and to have "an insolent and vain assurance in one's own resources, or in the stability of earthly things, which issues in a contempt of divine laws." When I consider the word "idle" or "vain," I cannot help but think of Matthew 12:36 again, where Jesus spoke of "every _idle_ word."

So this brings us back to the stark reality of the truth. As most of us realize, once we enter into this world, _there is no guarantee of even the next moment_. Even as we arrive into this realm of form, we are destined to leave it and enter back into the formless realm from which we came. So does this mean that we should hold this "world" in contempt? Not at all. John did not say to _hate_ the world, but he did say " _do not love_ the world or the things" in it. So, accordingly, we should come to understand that the manifestation of form is the manifestation of Spirit, of the One who is timeless and enduring. The world is truly a place of beauty and wonder when it has its rightful place within our mind and hearts. There is no stability in earthly things, but they are for a time, _gifts_ to you and me, something we can appreciate in the present moment. But all of it, like our physical selves, is passing away. Therefore, it is to our advantage to see the true nature of their essence and realize this point in fact. They are temporary manifestations of the formless. They are here today and gone tomorrow. Their permanence and ours are found in spirit.

Luke 14:25-27 (NKJV)

Now great multitudes went with Him. And He turned and said to them, " **If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple**. And whoever does not bear his cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.

Most, if not all of our suffering in this world comes from our attachments to the temporary elements. Though we may be reluctant to admit it, this includes our father, mother, husband, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and our own life. If we think about it, we will realize that these are temporary roles that we take upon us for a time while living on this plane. But they can become negative attachments because we place more importance on them than we should, clinging to our definition of self because of them. So in the preceding passages in Luke, was the Lord being cruel to suggest that we should "hate" them and our own life? Not at all. He was merely pointing out the fact that all of it is passing away. And we know this. But again, we are cultured to avoid this line of thought. Most of us don't want to think about it, even when the death of someone we love is close at hand. But none of us can argue this point. Everything in this world passes. And when we lose something or someone, we usually go through a time of struggle that hopefully ends with acceptance. But the passing away of those things which are seen confirms to us that the things which are not seen are the true eternal. Form is temporary; the formless is not. Paul presents this to us in II Corinthians 4:18, stating, "While we do not look at the things which are seen, _but at the things which are not seen_. For the things which are seen are temporary, _but the things which are not seen are eternal_ " (NKJV).

The stronger our attachment to the world of form, the greater the boasting of what we have (reaping) and do (sowing). Like the masses around us, we are part of the collective force that sustains this state of being known as death. This is why, in reference to fellowship with "unbelievers," Paul wrote, "Come out from among them and be separate" (II Cor. 6:17), and "do not be conformed to _this world_ , but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Rom. 12:2). This shows that we can awaken to the fact that much of the knowledge, understanding and wisdom that we embrace should be questioned. What we have been taught to think must be analyzed. Why? Because again, what we know and understand leads to what we believe and act upon. It becomes the foundation on which we settle and the purpose we then push to future generations. But I must emphasize that what we are considering is by divine design. The law of sowing and reaping was placed into our existence for a reason. When we reap corruption, we are reminded of the temporary nature of this world of form. The suffering that our sowing to the flesh creates is the divine correction needed to turn us from death to eternal life.

In its most basic form, the tree of knowledge of good and evil symbolizes _sowing to the flesh and reaping corruption_ (since it brought in death) while the tree of life denotes its opposite of _sowing to the Spirit and reaping everlasting life_ (since it denotes only life).

Romans 5:12-14 (NIV)

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned--for before the law was given, sin was in the world. But sin is not taken into account when there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who was a pattern of the one to come.

In these passages, we see a time "before the law was given." We are also told that "sin is not taken into account when there is no law. Nevertheless, death _reigned_ " during this time. Why did death reign? As we found, it is due to the principle of sowing and reaping. God is not mocked and whatever we sow, we must reap. It cannot be otherwise. So until the law came, sin and death were a part of our existence due to this divine principle.

When the "time of Moses" came, it then brought in the law. And what is the law? At its core, it is also _the principle of sowing and reaping_ in a written, external form.

Romans 7:7 (NKJV)

What shall we say then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, **I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, "You shall not covet."**

Not surprisingly, the first mention of the word "sin" in the Old Testament is found in Genesis 4:7 in connection with Cain, the firstborn, signifying the nature of the natural man. The Strong's Concordance defines this word as "An _offense_ ," taken from the word which means "To _miss_." The first mention of this word in the New Testament is in Matthew 12:31. This word is _hamartia_ and is defined by the Strong's Concordance as " _sin_ ," taken from the word _hamartanō_ which means, "To _miss_ the mark (and so _not share_ in the prize)" (see Philippians 3:14). The Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words defines _hamartia_ as literally, "a missing of the mark" and _hamartanō_ as "to miss the mark." In all of these definitions we see that the original idea of sin is the same in both testaments, which is "to miss" something defined as a "mark." Keep this in mind.

What defines sin? According to Paul, _it is the law_. And who was it that brought sin into the world? Adam, representative of our natural being. And how did sin enter? By the eating of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. This shows that this "tree," which emphasizes sowing to the flesh, also speaks of the law because it is in written form, the "knowledge of good and evil." What we see as a "seed" or _commandment_ in Genesis (Gen. 2:17) is later expanded on and presented to us as a "tree" in Exodus (Exod. 20:1-17). And the law is not so much " _don't_ do these things" as it is " _if_ you do these things." It is written and intended for our well-being. In other words, we reap corruption (death) when we sow to our own flesh. We reap suffering when we disregard these principles.

We are considering _two_ feet with _ten_ toes. Consider this in light of the following.

Exodus 24:12 (NKJV)

Then the Lord said to Moses, "Come up to me on the mountain and be there; and I will give you tablets of stone, and the law and commandments which I have written, that you may teach them."

Exodus 31:18 (KJV)

And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon Mount Sinai, **two tables of testimony** , tables of stone, **written with the finger of God**.

Exodus 32:15-16 (KJV)

And Moses turned, and went down from the mount, and the **two tables of the testimony** were in his hand: the tables were written on both their sides; on the one side and on the other were they written. **And the tables were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, graven upon the tables**.

Exodus 34:27-29 (NIV)

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words **I have made a covenant** with you and with Israel." Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant— **the Ten Commandments**. When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the **two tablets of the Testimony** in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD.

Most everyone has heard of the Ten Commandments that were given to Moses on two "tables of stone." Just as there are _ten_ toes on _two_ feet, there are _Ten_ Commandments on _two_ stones. Coincidence? I don't think so. As we have said, seen in the feet of Nebuchadnezzar's image is man's conduct in sin and grace and our conduct is made evident by the law of God which is represented by the Ten Commandments. When we analyze the Ten Commandments, we will find that _five_ are in relation to God and _five_ are in relation to our fellow man. Again, is this just coincidence?

If we take time to really consider the preceding passages about the Ten Commandments, the evidence is indisputable. These commandments were not just some nice sounding ideas given to Moses; they were " _two_ tables of _testimony_ , tables of stone, _written with the finger of God_." "The tables were _the work of God_ , and _the writing was the writing of God_ , graven upon the tables." "In accordance with these words," God _made a covenant_ with Moses and the children of Israel. So, could the importance of these words be more apparent? Man did not come up with these, they were delivered to him by his Creator. Who but God could encapsulate the principle of sowing and reaping within the Ten Commandments, and in doing so reveal their impact upon us by our own physical makeup? Our _two_ hands and _ten_ fingers point to what we "have" while our _two_ feet and _ten_ toes point to what we "do." God's law relates to both. And when we bring the hands and feet together, we have _twenty_ , the number which stands for _redemption_ (Bullinger; Gen. 21:38, 41; Judges 4:3; Judges 15:20, 16:31; I Sam. 7:2; I Kings 9:10; 2 Chron. 8:1). And how are we are redeemed? Through the divine actions of the Two Covenants; first by the law of the Old Covenant and then by the promise of the New Covenant, both reflecting our principle of sowing and reaping (Psalms 19:7; 119:1).

Should there be any doubt as to what I'm saying, consider humankind as a whole and every culture that exists on this planet. There are established laws in every country to oversee our behavior and dictate what happens when we deviate from what is considered "right." There are numerous laws against murder, theft, infidelity, and so on. And though the penalties may vary in each culture, the basic idea is the same—don't do this. If you do, you will be held accountable and you will suffer the consequences of your actions. The laws of man are most certainly rooted in something, right? Would it not be the law of our Creator? After all, were we not also created with a conscience, an inner "knowing" that rises up in us when we do something wrong?

Daniel 2:41 (NKJV)

Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter's clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay.

So again, is it just coincidence that we find _two_ feet with _ten_ toes which are the final part of Nebuchadnezzar's image and a mixture of iron and clay? As we saw in the last chapter, the "iron" signifies the existence and discipline of death that exists in our natural state. So now, let's consider the "clay." The following is from the Science Learning Hub website at www.sciencelearn.org.nz.

What is clay?

Since the earliest times, humankind has had a close association with clay. From use as a building material, in pottery, for treating human digestive ailments to a multitude of industrial uses, clay is a key ingredient in the material world we live in.

Commercially, the most important clays are known as kaolin and bentonite.

Where does clay come from?

Clay is a soft, loose, earthy material containing particles with a grain size of less than 4 micrometers. It forms as a result of the weathering and erosion of rocks containing the mineral group feldspar (known as the 'mother of clay') over vast spans of time.

During weathering, the feldspar content is altered by hydrolysis (reaction with water) to form clay minerals such as kaolinites (the principal minerals in kaolin clays) and smectites (the principal minerals in bentonite clays).

From Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia at en.wikipedia.org (bolding mine).

Clays exhibit plasticity when mixed with water in certain proportions. When dry, clay becomes firm and **when fired in a kiln, permanent physical and chemical changes occur**. These reactions, among other changes, cause the clay to be converted into a ceramic material. Because of these properties, clay is used for making pottery items, both utilitarian and decorative, and construction products, such as bricks, wall and floor tiles. Different types of clay, when used with different minerals and firing conditions, are used to produce earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain. Prehistoric humans discovered the useful properties of clay.

Also from Wikipedia.

Clay tablets were used as the first known writing medium, inscribed with cuneiform script through the use of a blunt reed called a stylus. Purpose-made clay balls were also used as sling ammunition.

Clay is one of the oldest building materials on Earth, among other ancient, naturally-occurring geologic materials such as stone and organic materials like wood. Between one-half and two-thirds of the world's population, in traditional societies as well as developed countries, still live or work in a building made with clay as an essential part of its load-bearing structure.

Now, consider the following from scripture.

Job 4:18-19 (NIV)

If God places no trust in his servants, if he charges his angels with error, how much more **those who live in houses of clay** , **whose foundations are in the dust** , who are crushed more readily than a moth!

Job 10:9 (NIV)

Remember that **you molded me like clay**. Will you now turn me to dust again?

Job 33:6 (NIV)

I am just like you before God; **I too have been taken from clay**.

Isaiah 64:8 (NKJV)

But now, O Lord, You are our Father; **we are the clay** , and you our potter; and **all we are the work of your hand**.

Jeremiah 18:6 (NKJV)

"O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter?" says the Lord. "Look, **as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand** , O house of Israel!

Romans 9:20-21 (NKJV)

But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? **Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this?" Does not the potter have power over the clay** , from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?

2 Corinthians 4:6-7 (NKJV)

For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But **we have this treasure in earthen vessels** , that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.

These passages clearly show that we are "earthen vessels" of "clay" and the Lord is our "potter." We are the "work" (sowing and reaping) of His "hand." I cannot help but think of the many passages that speak of the "right hand of God" (Mark 16:19; Acts 2:33; 7:55-56; Rom. 8:34; Col. 3:1; Heb. 10:12; I Peter 3:22; 5:6; Rev. 1:20) which denotes the power and authority that proceeds from His throne or dominion, His superior wisdom.

Revelation 2:26-27 (NKJV)

And he who overcomes, and keeps my works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations – He shall rule them with a rod of iron; **they shall be dashed to pieces like the potter's vessels** '-- as I also have received from My Father...

The "rod of iron" and "potter's vessels" in these passages correlates with the iron and clay seen in the feet of our image. Strong's Concordance defines the phrase, "he shall rule" as "to _tend_ as a shepherd." And who is it that Christ, the Spirit and Word tends as a shepherd? The nations. And how is it that Christ "shepherds" the nations? With a "rod of iron," the "discipline" (rod) of "death" (iron) as ministered through the law (II Cor. 3:7). So the "nations" are likened to "potter's vessels," the "clay" that is seen in the feet. Again, this is confirmed by the fact that Nebuchadnezzar was the "head of gold" in the image, representing himself as well as the people over which he ruled (and both signify the natural being in everyone).

The Strong's Concordance defines "vessels" as "a _vessel_ , _implement_ , _equipment_ or _apparatus_ (literal or figurative [specially a _wife_ as contributing to the usefulness of the husband])." The word "potter's" simply means " _made of clay_ , i.e. _earthen_." So does "wife" and "clay" point to the heart of man? And isn't pottery clay that is mixed with water and then passed through a fire? Isn't it also true that gold, silver, brass and iron are all elements taken from the earth and also processed through fire? Is it coincidence that water is needful in order for clay to be processed, but it's an element that causes rust in metal? Would this signify that when the Word is seen as "water" (John 7:38; Eph. 5:26), it provides what is necessary for the clay to be formed into a usable vessel while at the same time causes iron to disintegrate? In other words, the living Word forms and destroys at the same time, renewing the inward man of spirit while destroying the outward man of soul. When the Word is seen as "fire," does this signify that the knowledge, understanding, wisdom and purpose of man must always be tested by the light (fire) of divine truth (Matt. 5:16; John 1:4, 9; 3:21; I John 1:5)?

The Greek definition of "rod" means "a _stick_ or _wand_ (as a _cudgel_ , a _cane_ or a _baton_ of royalty)." It's taken from the base of the word which means "(to _let fall_ , " _rap_ "); to " _slap_ " or "smite (with the palm of the hand)." The fact that our "rod" of iron is spoken of in this fashion shows that the divine government of God is implemented through the law of sowing and reaping. The consequences we suffer from the actions of our own ego or self come back to us as a form of _discipline_ and _correction,_ and often through the laws which govern our society.

Daniel 2:34-35 (NKJV)

You watched while **a stone was cut out without hands** , which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; the wind carried them away so that no trace of them was found. And **the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth**.

Daniel 2:44-45 (NKJV)

And **in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed** ; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. Inasmuch as you saw that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it broke in pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold—the great God has made known to the king what will come to pass after this. The dream is certain, and its interpretation is sure."

In Daniel 2:34, we see "a stone was cut out without hands" that strikes the image of Nebuchadnezzar's dream "on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces," "and the stone that struck the image became a great mountain and filled the whole earth." Daniel makes it clear that this refers to a "kingdom" which "shall never be destroyed" that "shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever." He again refers to the "stone" that was "cut out of the mountain without hands" in verse 45. What other kingdom would this be but the kingdom of God? And how was this kingdom first exemplified if not in the giving of the law to Moses? And don't forget, the two tables of "stone" were first "written with the finger of God," in other words "cut out of the mountain without (human) hands." This contrast shows the difference between the Old Covenant out of which came the law "written and engraved on stones" (II Cor. 3:7; NKJV) and the New Covenant or promise where the same law is put into the mind and written on the heart (II Cor. 3:6-11; Heb. 8:6-13). The "finger of God" denotes the Spirit of truth which continually implements this process of sowing and reaping within humankind.

2 Corinthians 3:6-8 (NKJV)

...who also made us sufficient as ministers of the new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. But if **the ministry of death** , written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away, how will **the ministry of the Spirit** not be more glorious?

As Paul shows, the law was called "the ministry of death." And why is this? Because it relates to the natural being and its temporary existence. But the New Covenant is a "ministry of the Spirit,"therefore written into the spirit, the essence of our true self.

Returning to our passages from Daniel, Chapter 2, look at where he refers to all of the other kingdoms becoming "like _chaff_ from the summer threshing floors." This aligns with our concept of sowing and reaping.

Matthew 3:12 (NIV)

His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and **burning up the chaff** with unquenchable fire."

In this passage, John the Baptist refers to Jesus Christ. Note the phrase "he will clear his threshing floor, _gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire_." Consider the following about "threshing" and a "threshing floor" from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia.

Threshing is the process of loosening the edible part of cereal grain (or other crop) from the scaly, inedible chaff that surrounds it. It is the step in grain preparation after harvesting and before winnowing, which separates the loosened chaff from the grain.

Again from Wikipedia.

Threshing (thrashing) was originally "...'to tramp or stamp heavily with the feet'..." and was later applied to the act of separating out grain by the feet of people or oxen and still later with the use of a flail. A threshing floor is of two main types: 1) a specially flattened outdoor surface, usually circular and paved, or 2) inside a building with a smooth floor of earth, stone or wood where a farmer would thresh the grain harvest and then winnow it. Animal and steam powered threshing machines from the nineteenth century onward made threshing floors obsolete. The outdoor threshing floor was either owned by the entire village or by a single family, and it was usually located outside the village in a place exposed to the wind.

Also from Wikipedia.

Wind winnowing is an agricultural method developed by ancient cultures for separating grain from chaff. It is also used to remove weevils or other pests from stored grain. Threshing, the separation of grain or seeds from the husks and straw, is the step in the chaff-removal process that comes before winnowing. "Winnowing the chaff" is a common expression.

In its simplest form it involves throwing the mixture into the air so that the wind blows away the lighter chaff, while the heavier grains fall back down for recovery. Techniques included using a winnowing fan (a shaped basket shaken to raise the chaff) or using a tool (a winnowing fork or shovel) on a pile of harvested grain.

Our information shows that "threshing" is the process that loosens the edible grain from the chaff, the dry, scaly protective casings of the seeds of cereal grain. This natural process illustrates how the Spirit of truth works within our hearts and minds to remove that which is in opposition to and prevents His spiritual principles from manifesting in our lives. No doubt, it is an uncomfortable process for as John the Baptist stated, the "chaff" is burnt up with "unquenchable fire." This "unquenchable fire" is the eternal truth of our Maker which cannot be extinguished.

Matthew 3:12 agrees with Daniel 2:35 and verifies that the "stone" symbolizes the law of God that was given to the people of Israel, which was further enhanced and established as the "great mountain" of the spiritual kingdom of God through Christ Jesus (Hebrews 12:18-24).

Matthew 21:42-44 (NKJV)

Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'The **stone** which the builders rejected has become **the chief cornerstone**. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it. And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder."

Ephesians 2:20 (NKJV)

... having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being **the chief corner stone**...

Matthew verifies that the "stone" of Daniel 2:34 and 35 speaks of Christ and the kingdom of God, the Spirit and wisdom of God as evidenced by the principles of His kingdom, of His divine rule in the earth and seen in His son, Jesus. Though the kingdom of God is symbolized in many ways like a natural kingdom, our Creator doesn't sit upon a throne somewhere in some city far away in the universe. Rather, He is the essence of life that is present in all things, the energy and force which binds all things visible and invisible together. He is the timeless and formless energy which exists within and around us at all times. To speak of His "kingdom" is to refer to all that He has created (Psalms 22:28; 45:6; 50:10; 93:1; 97:1-2), both visible and invisible (Col. 1:16-17). To speak of His "throne" is to refer to His dominion over all that He has created (Psalms 11:4; 45:6; 47:8; 89:14; 89:36; 93:2; 97:2; 103:19), and His dominion is evidenced by the laws which govern creation, from the smallest particle of matter to the billions of souls that exist at this present time.

Where did the "stone" strike the image? On its _feet_ , symbolizing the movement of man's will and purpose. When it struck, it broke to pieces the gold, silver, brass, iron and clay. And Daniel leaves no doubt as to what this "stone" signifies. It is a "kingdom which shall never be destroyed" and "it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever."

We have found that the principle of sowing and reaping is first realized as a "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" in Genesis. Later, it is again realized and delivered to Moses in the form of the " _two_ tablets of the testimony," i.e. the law or "witness" (2; testimony) of God in man. As mentioned, the essence of our principle can be further understood and witnessed by our own conscience.

Romans 2:13-16 (NKJV)

...(for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but **the doers of the law** will be justified; for when Gentiles, who do not have the **law** , by nature do the things in the **law** , these, although not having the **law** , are a **law** to themselves, who show the work of the **law** written in their hearts, **their conscience also bearing witness** , and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.

James 1:22-24 (NKJV)

But **be doers of the word** , and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.

Genesis 4:7 (NKJV)

**If you do well, will you not be accepted?** And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it."

According to Romans 2:13, it is "the _doers_ of the law" who "will be justified." "Justified" means "to _render_ (i.e. _show_ or _regard_ as) _just_ or _innocent_." This agrees with our passages in James where we are told to be " _doers_ of the word, and not hearers only," deceiving ourselves (Gal. 6:7). This also agrees with Genesis and the question, "If you _do_ well, will you not be accepted?" Paul makes clear in our passages in Romans, even those "who do not have the law," if they "by nature _do_ the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, _their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them_." You see, it's not any different from one generation to the next. Unacceptable behavior has been dealt with since our beginning. And though our laws may not have been written down for a time, our own conscience bears witness to the fact that there has always been consequences related to how we treat our fellow man and all things on this planet.

In this day and age, most of us take our laws for granted and would be hard-pressed to cite even a few of them. In America's judicial system, so many laws have entered and changed and yet changed again, that it is impossible to go to court without a competent lawyer who will hopefully interpret and exercise these laws properly. And because of our "fallen" nature, our courtrooms are full, our judicial system strained to the breaking point. There are now shows on television which glamourize this process in the form of entertainment. But the point is this—we have always been under some form of law in every society, not realizing that the very structure of these laws typifies the principle of sowing and reaping which is emphasized in the law which God gave to Moses and the children of Israel. And why has man done this? Because he has a conscience, an innate "knowing" that he may not be able to explain but is clearly evident in all that he does. The conscience is a critical part of our makeup, more so than any other element that we have considered.

Psalms 89:32 (KJV)

Then will I visit their transgression with the **rod** , and their iniquity with **stripes**.

Proverbs 10:13 (KJV)

In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but **a rod** is for the back of him that is void of understanding.

Proverbs 13:24 (NKJV)

**He who spares his rod** hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.

Proverbs 22:15 (KJV)

Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but **the rod of correction** shall drive it far from him.

1 Corinthians 15:56 (KJV)

The **sting** of death is sin; and the **strength** of sin is the law.

In the same way we feel pain when struck by a "rod," we feel the "sting" of death which is sin. When our identity with form moves us beyond the boundaries of the law, we suffer the consequences of our actions. No one can argue this. Our suffering is readily apparent in the daily news as we view the results of our longing for temporary fulfillment.

The "strength" behind this "rod of iron," the _discipline_ of _death_ , is the "clay" or the "two tables of testimony, tables of stone" (law) which supports it. The law of God seen in the laws of man and confirmed by our own conscience, exposes and judges the sin which is in us. Therefore, the law is sin's "strength" or "power" which holds our behavior in check through fear of consequences. It is this which causes the conflict we often feel inside.

What is the purpose of a law? Is it not a form of rule or dominion over everyone? Is it not a means of discipline whereby punishment is exacted when we break it? Aren't the penalties of our laws to correct any wrong behavior? Hasn't all of mankind lived this way for as long as any one of us can remember? And in many instances, when someone has been punished, aren't they released back into society in the hopes that they will not repeat their behavior? Finally, isn't suffering the penalties of any law a clear form of reaping what we have sown?

1 Peter 2:13-17 (NIV)

**Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men** : whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, **who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong** and to commend those who do right. **For it is God's will** that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.

Romans 13:1-5 (NKJV)

**Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.** Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. **For he is God's minister to you for good**. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for **he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience' sake.**

These passages confirm our perspective. Regardless of who is in authority, we are to submit ourselves to them in respect of the fact that they are there to oversee and execute the laws of our society. "For it is God's will that by doing good" we should "silence the ignorant talk of foolish men," of those who would resist the law and those in authority. Paul, agreeing with Peter, also tells us to "be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves." Note too that Paul calls the governing authorities "God's _minister_ to you for good" and "God's _minister_ , an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil." In the world at large, God has a hand in things. The law of God is reflected in the laws of man, having been set in place by our Creator as a means of discipline and correction.

Matthew 5:17-18 (NKJV)

" **Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill**. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.

In agreement with the importance of the law, Jesus made it clear that He didn't come to destroy it "or the Prophets" but to fulfill it. And He made it especially clear, "till heaven and earth pass away (Rev. 21:1), one jot or one tittle (smallest detail) will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled." What does this statement mean? One perspective is that within the law are found "prophetic" components that must be considered. Though we are focusing on the Ten Commandments, keep in mind that the law incorporated a great number of things, including the instructions for the Tabernacle of Witness and the Feasts of Israel that God gave to Moses and the children of Israel. Found in these instructions are numbers and patterns which define the purpose of the kingdom of God in man. As an example, see the instructions for the tabernacle between our passages concerning the Ten Commandments in Exodus 24:12 and Exodus 31:18. You see, the law is much more than a set of rules; rather _it is a divine injunction_ , sanctioned by the Creator. Though the law was first given to Moses and the nation of Israel, it was destined to find its way into all humankind through the exponential principle of sowing and reaping.

### CHAPTER TEN

The Law of God

Romans 3:19 (NKJV)

**Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law** , that **every mouth** may be stopped, and **all the world** may become guilty before God.

Two thousand years ago, there were people on this planet who had no inkling of a law, of Moses and the nation of Israel or a "Middle East." Of course, this was due to the fact that man was very limited by his technological and industrial status. Though he had ships, he had never sailed across every ocean. There was nothing in the way of travel and communication as we know it today. There were no automobiles, airplanes, trains, satellites, computers, internet, phones, television, and so on. Of course, our reality today is astounding. The entire world is now connected by means of all these things. Communication is instantaneous and travel to different parts of the world is easy compared to only a few hundred years ago. As a result, we can see how each country's culture may be different or similar; how each country governs their people and has laws in place that their people must answer to. And the point is it doesn't matter what country or culture you consider, we have been under government and laws of one form or another for as long as anyone can remember. Is this just a coincidence? Or is it due to the fact that man was designed in accordance with this? And man, apart from any written law, still has a conscience, an inner knowing that either "accuses" or "excuses" his actions toward his fellow man.

If it is indeed true that we were ordained to "fall" and thus show a propensity to lawlessness, then it follows that our Creator would also set boundaries by which He would hold us accountable. And these boundaries or laws work, at least in part. But the enigma with which we are struggling goes beyond this. It is not about setting up more laws or changing the ones we already have; rather, it is about realizing that something greater than ourselves is needed; something that supersedes external boundaries and affects an inward change. This inward change is what we find in the New Covenant. When we read that God will put His laws into our minds and write them in our hearts (Heb. 8:10), this speaks of an inward, spiritual work that is accomplished by something higher than ourselves.

Romans 7:7 (NKJV)

On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, "You shall not covet."

In this passage, Paul refers to the _tenth_ or _final_ commandment in the Ten Commandments. Remember, _ten_ means "the whole cycle is complete," that "nothing is wanting" (Bullinger). So in the _tenth_ commandment is seen the essence of all the commandments. As I John 2:16 has shown, it is about our "longings" for those things found in the world of form. And as we have seen, the Ten Commandments are a synopsis of all the laws given to Moses and the children of Israel so long ago. However, the Ten Commandments are enough to understand its essence and the principles of sowing and reaping.

Paul, who was a Pharisee before his conversion (Acts 23:6; Philippians 3:5), was an expert in the law, perfectly suited to contrast it to the "law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 8:2). He wrote much in his letters to help us understand the differences between what we call the "Old Covenant" or "Old Testament" and the "New Covenant" or "New Testament." Out of the "Old Covenant" proceeds the law over our natural man, which is symbolized by the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Out of the "New Covenant" proceeds the promise, which is symbolized by the tree of life, revealing the wisdom of God by His Spirit. The Old Covenant and the law address sowing to the flesh while the New Covenant and promise address sowing to the Spirit. The Old Covenant and law deals with the natural man while the New Covenant and law of the Spirit addresses the spiritual man. When the Lord told Adam, "but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die" (Gen. 2:17), we see that "he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption (surely die)" (Gal. 6:8). Sowing _to_ the temporary returns only that which _is_ temporary.

Remember, the "seed" is the "word of God," Jesus said, God's thoughts and ways "sown" or integrated into humankind's mind and heart. For this reason we see _seven_ body parts, the "material creation" or humankind (4) plus the "divine completeness" of God (3) (Bullinger). And so while we often see an arrogant disregard for these thoughts and ways we fail to realize that we are subject to them anyway, first by means of our conscience within and secondly through the various forms of the governmental authority that exists in our present society.

1 Timothy 1:8-11 (NIV)

We know that the law is good if one uses it properly. **We also know that law is made not for the righteous** but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers – and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.

The law exemplifies righteousness, which can be summed up as _a right relationship to all things_ , and stands in contrast to "lawbreakers." But though we have many laws incorporated into our society, they do not guarantee righteous behavior. Most of us never murder, steal or commit adultery, but who of us hasn't longed for what others have, accused someone wrongly, or shown some form of prejudice? The dysfunction of the mind of form is often evidenced by the small things which we say and do in our everyday lives.

2 Corinthians 3:6-11 (NIV)

He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant – not of the letter, but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. Now if the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone, came with glory, so that the Israelites could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of its glory, fading though it was, will not the ministry of the Spirit be even more glorious? If the ministry that condemns men is glorious, how much more glorious is the ministry that brings righteousness! For what was glorious has no glory now in comparison with the surpassing glory. And if what was fading away came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts!

Returning to these passages, we see that Paul refers to the New Covenant as "the Spirit" and the Old Covenant as "the letter." The word "letter" means "a _writing_ , i.e. a _letter_ , _note_ , _epistle_ , _book_ , etc.; plural _learning_." Paul follows his reference to "the letter" with, "the ministry that brought death, which was engraved in letters on stone." So "the letter" or Old Covenant incorporates the law which God gave to Moses and the children of Israel and Paul calls it "the ministry that brought death" and "condemns men." This further enhances our understanding of Adam's "fall" in Genesis, showing how death entered because of sin. There was no written law when Adam fell, but the divine principle of sowing and reaping as reflected in the "commandment" (Rom. 7:8-13) was definitely applicable. But an external law cannot change our behavior. In fact, the opposite is true as evidenced by the following passages from Romans, Chapter 7.

Romans 7:7-8 (AMP)

What then do we conclude? Is the law identical with sin? Certainly not! Nevertheless, if it had not been for the law, I should not have recognized sin or have known its meaning. [For instance] I would not have known about covetousness [would have had no consciousness of sin or sense of guilt] if the law had not [repeatedly] said, you shall not covet and have an evil desire [for one thing and another]. **But sin, finding opportunity in the commandment [to express itself], got a hold on me and aroused and stimulated all kinds of forbidden desires (lust, covetousness). For without the law sin is dead [the sense of it is inactive and a lifeless thing].**

Hebrews 8:7-13 (NKJV)

**For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second**. Because finding fault with them, He says: "Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when **I will make a new covenant** with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah--not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them, says the Lord. **For this is the covenant** that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for all shall know me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more." In that He says, "A new covenant," He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.

The New Covenant is the promise that God will put His laws into our minds (male) and write them on our hearts (female). This is an inward work as opposed to an outward. So a major difference between the two covenants is where His laws are written. Remember, the "stone" which was "cut out of the mountain without hands" was destined to become "a great mountain" and fill "the whole earth." Look at Revelation 2:27 once more.

Revelation 2:27 (KJV)

And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter **shall they be broken to shivers** : even as I received of my Father.

The Strong's definition of the phrase "shall they be broken to shivers" reads, "to _crush completely_ , i.e. to _shatter_." This agrees with Daniel's statement, "You watched while a stone was cut out without hands, _which struck the image on its feet of iron and clay, and broke them in pieces. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver, and the gold were crushed together._ "

Galatians 3:21-25 (NKJV)

Is the law then against the promises of God? Certainly not! For if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness would have been by the law. **But the Scripture has confined all under sin** , that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, **we were kept under guard by the law** , kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. **Therefore the law was our tutor** to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.

The law cannot ever make us righteous. Though it exposes and addresses our unrighteous behavior, it cannot change us. As Paul indicates, "For if there had been a law given _which could have given life_ , truly _righteousness_ would have been by the law" (note how Paul interchanges "life" with "righteousness"). Clearly, something else is needed, something higher than a law that is written outwardly on stone. This points to the dynamic working of the Spirit of truth as defined in the Promise, for Jesus said, "I am come that _they might have life_ , and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10; KJV).

The King James Version of Galatians 3:22 reads, "But the scripture hath concluded (has confined; NKJV) all under sin." Consider Vincent's treatment of the phrase "hath concluded."

**Hath concluded** (συνέκλεισεν)

Better, hath shut up, as a jailer. Only in Paul, with the exception of Luke 5:6. Frequent in lxx. Not included with others, but confined as within an enclosure, as Luke 5:6, of the net enclosing the fish. Comp. Exodus 14:3; Joshua 6:1; 1 Macc. 4:31. Scripture, in its divine utterances on the universality and guilt of sin, is conceived as a jailer who shuts all up in sin as in a prison. Comp. Romans 3:10-19; 11:32.

Like "a jailer who shuts all up in sin as in a prison," man's behavior is held in check by the "divine utterances" of scripture. And it continues until the law is no longer necessary. Note that Vincent's tells us to compare Romans 3:10-19 and 11:32.

Romans 3:10-19 (NKJV)

As it is written: "There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no, not one." "Their throat is an open tomb; with their tongues they have practiced deceit"; "The poison of asps is under their lips"; "Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness." "Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace they have not known." "There is no fear of God before their eyes." **Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.**

Romans 11:32 (NKJV)

For **God has committed them all to disobedience** , that He might have mercy on all.

Paul's declaration in Romans, Chapter 3, is a mixture of passages from the Old Testament, given as follows: Psalms 14:1-3; 53:1-3; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Psalms 5:9; 140:3; 10:7; Isaiah 59:7,8; Psalms 36:1.

Can there be any doubt that our will is usually in resistance to God's will? Can we not see in these passages how we are cultured into resisting the truth of God? But our passage states, "For God has committed them all (everyone) to disobedience, that _He might have mercy on all_." This clearly shows that this was a matter of divine design, purposed by our Creator. As I have stated several times throughout this writing, there is nothing outside the scope of God's purpose, and there is no one outside of His reach. There is a purpose to our suffering.

Romans 13:6-10 (NKJV)

For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God's ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. **Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, "You shall not commit adultery," "You shall not murder," "You shall not steal," "You shall not bear false witness," "You shall not covet," and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law**.

Earlier, we considered the passages in Romans, Chapter 1, verses 1 through 5, where we are told to "be subject to the governing authorities." Now consider what Paul follows with in the preceding passages. "Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." Can it be this simple? Is love the answer? Where there is love, is there a need for a law? This my friend, is where I believe we are evolving to. Our struggle with sin and death, our suffering in this world, is pushing us toward a solution that will one day become obvious; _we will love one another_. This is the "stone that struck the image" and "became a great mountain and filled the whole earth." Just as surely as the law of God came out the Old Covenant and is evident in humankind's affairs, the Promise of God out of the New Covenant will be fulfilled and become evident. God is not mocked.

Daniel 2:42-44 (NKJV)

And as **the toes of the feet** were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay. And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever.

Now look once more at Daniel 2:42 and 44 and the phrases, "the toes of the feet," of which there are _ten_ , and " _in the days of these kings_ the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed." When did this happen and what does it mean, "The days of these kings?"

Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV)

But **when the fullness of the time had come** , God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, **born under the law** , **to redeem those who were under the law** , that we might receive the adoption as sons.

As we have found, Nebuchadnezzar's dream pointed to four literal kingdoms which began with the kingdom of Babylon. This was followed by the kingdom of the Medes and Persians, which was followed by the kingdom of Greece. These three kingdoms are mentioned in the book of Daniel. The fourth kingdom, as evidenced by history, was the kingdom of Italy, the Roman Empire. Being the _fourth_ kingdom, the Roman Empire correlates with the _fourth_ element of the "legs of iron." Since the iron travels down into the feet, we could say that the Roman Empire was represented here as well. But what was the common thread of all of these kingdoms which are seen in Nebuchadnezzar's dream? It was the kingdom of Judah, those known as the "Jews" of which Daniel was a part. In agreement, the book of Daniel begins with, "In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. _And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand_ " (Dan. 1:1-2; NKJV). Who gave the kingdom of Judah into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar? The Lord did, and this according to the prophecies given by Isaiah and Jeremiah (Isa. 39:5-8; Jer. 20:4-6).

The captivity of the Jews began in earnest with the kingdom of Babylon and continued through the other three kingdoms mentioned. It was during the time of their captivity to the Roman Empire that Christ was born, matured, and entered into His ministry. As Paul stipulates, "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, _born under the law_ , to _redeem those who were under the law_." Do you see it? Christ was "born under the law" that He might "redeem those who were under the law." And how is the law summarized? By the _Ten_ Commandments. So in reference to the "toes" of the feet of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the Lord came to the Jews, those who were "under the law." "The days of these kings" refers then to the "ten kings" or _Ten_ Commandments of which we speak and which defines the Jews during the time of Jesus Christ as "under the law."

So why is this significant? Because the law was much more than a passive set of commands that faded with time. Remember, it was the "work of God" written by "the finger of God" and given to Israel for a select purpose. This same nation was the people to whom Christ came and from where we get the writings of the Old and New Testaments, the foundation of Christianity.

If you think about it, this perspective makes a lot of sense. Christ came to the Jews and, as the four gospels and the book of Acts show us, introduced the "stone" which "was cut out of the mountain without hands," a kingdom that is truly spiritual in nature, a kingdom which, like the law, was set in place by our Creator and not by man. Though some may scoff at what I am presenting, they cannot argue with the principles of sowing and reaping which are the foundation of both covenants. We have been sowing and reaping corruption for a very long time, but there is a hope contained in the writings of the New Testament that we don't fully understand, but will, as Daniel's interpretation tells us, spread throughout the world. The kingdom which Christ introduced into the world is destined to "never be destroyed" and "shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever" (Dan. 2:44).

Hebrews 8:13 (NKJV)

In that He says, "A new covenant," He has made the first obsolete. **Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away**.

When Christ established the kingdom of God, He did not do away with the law. Remember, He said, "For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled" (Matt. 5:18; NKJV). So there are things yet to be fulfilled. This is why Hebrews 8:13 tells us that "what is becoming obsolete and growing old," i.e. the Old Covenant and the law, "is ready to vanish away." The law is still with us, but the Promise has also been given and exemplified through Christ. They are running parallel at this time. So we are still within "the days of these kings" where the "stone" of the kingdom of God is being fashioned into a "great mountain."

1 Corinthians 15:23-26 (NKJV)

But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming. Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

"He must reign," Paul wrote, "till He has put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death," the rebellious nature of the self and its deceptive longings for those things which are temporary. This agrees with Daniel's interpretation that the "stone" will strike the image in its feet and consume all the other kingdoms or dominions within us, including the "iron" and "clay," the death which comes through sin and the work of our Father through the law.

Romans 2:28-29 (NKJV)

For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; **but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter** ; whose praise is not from men but from God.

In Romans, Chapter 2, Paul wrote to the Jews of his time and made it clear that "called a Jew," they "rest on the law," and make their "boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law" (Rom. 2:17-18; NKJV). But he goes on to say that "You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal" (Rom. 2:21; NKJV)? Finally, he speaks of "circumcision" (Rom. 2:25-27), the cutting off of the foreskin of the male organ. The physical act of circumcision was introduced by God to Abraham as a sign of the covenant which He made with him in Genesis, Chapter 17.

It is not my intent to get into the specifics of this covenant, but I do wish to point out a couple of things in light of the spiritual realities that we are considering. First of all, Paul makes it clear that the Jews or kingdom of Judah, were entrusted with the law. But as Romans 2:28-29 shows us, through Christ and the introduction of the kingdom of God, the natural was joined to the spiritual, the Old Covenant and law to the New Covenant and promise. As a result, "he is not a Jew _who is one outwardly_ , nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew _who is one inwardly_ ; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God." Clearly, being a "Jew" is now a spiritual matter. And what was the "sign" that Paul relates to it? Circumcision. Why? Because circumcision involved the male organ, _that which is necessary for sowing seed_. In contrast, and in light of the spiritual reality of the New Covenant, this "circumcision" is now "that of the heart, in the Spirit." As this spiritual circumcision takes place within, we learn to cease sowing to our flesh and instead, sow to the Spirit. We learn to promote life by the power of our tongue (Prov. 15:14).

Genesis 1:16-18 (KJV)

**And God made two great lights** ; the **greater ligh** t to rule the day, and the **lesser light** to rule the night: he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and **to divide the light from the darkness** : and God saw that it was good.

1 Corinthians 15:40-42 (NKJV)

There are also celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies; but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. **There is one glory of the sun, another glory of the moon** , and another glory of the stars; for one star differs from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption.

2 Corinthians 3:7-11 (NKJV)

But if **the ministry of death** , written and engraved on stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the face of Moses because of the glory of his countenance, which glory was passing away, how will **the ministry of the Spirit** not be more glorious? For if the ministry of condemnation had glory, the ministry of righteousness exceeds much more in glory. For even what was made glorious had no glory in this respect, because of the glory that excels. For if what is passing away was glorious, what remains is much more glorious.

Remember our passages from Genesis? God made "two great lights; the greater light" of the sun "to rule the day" and "the lesser light" of the moon "to rule the night." These "two great lights" "divide the light from the darkness" and symbolize our two covenants. The "greater light" or "glory of the sun" speaks of the New Covenant and promise and represents the "glory" of the "ministry of the Spirit" and the "ministry of righteousness." The "lesser light" or "glory of the moon" speaks of the law, which is simply a reflection of the "greater light." When we consider that both "darkness" and "light" are "ruled" over by these covenants, then it becomes evident that the living Word of God as contained in these covenants, _governs all humankind and rules over every aspect of our being_. The first covenant and the law addresses our deeds done in "darkness" or form until such time that the second covenant and promise brings us to the place where the first covenant is unnecessary. Just as the moon has no light of its own but reflects the light of the sun, so the "ministry of death," the law, has no power to change us. But the "light" of truth that is reflected by the moon can be traced back to the sun, to the greater light of God's promise to put His laws into our minds and hearts.

Jeremiah 31:31-37 (NKJV)

"Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah--not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they all shall know me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." Thus says the Lord, **who gives the sun for a light by day, the ordinances of the moon and the stars for a light by night** , who disturbs the sea, and its waves roar (The Lord of hosts is His name): "If those ordinances depart from before Me, says the Lord, then the seed of Israel shall also cease from being a nation before Me forever." Thus says the Lord: "If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, says the Lord.

The New Covenant and promise seen in Hebrews, Chapter 8, is taken from the passages in Jeremiah, Chapter 31. Notice what verse 35 states after the description of the New Covenant – "Thus says the Lord, Who gives the sun for a light by day, the _ordinances_ of the moon and the stars for a light by night." Note the difference between "the sun for a light by day" and "the _ordinances_ of the moon and the stars for a light by night." With the sun or "greater light," there are no "ordinances" or "statutes," no law to those who walk in the light of it, but with the "lesser light," there are. Clearly, the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus transcends the law of sin and death. "For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life" (II Cor. 5:4; NKJV). When we walk in the divine love of our Father, then the "death" we have experienced by the law is "swallowed up" by the "life" that is known through the Promise.

When we bring all of our components together, we can create a list that shows the meaning of our symbols. Consider the following.

The Law of Sowing and Reaping

(Two Covenants)

The Lesser Light to Rule the Night

Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil

Ministry of Death

For He Who Sows to His Flesh  
The Law (Old Covenant)

The Greater Light to Rule the Day

The Tree of Life

Ministry of the Spirit

But He Who Sows to the Spirit  
The Promise (New Covenant)

This list summarizes our presentation, showing that the "lesser light to rule the night" correlates with the tree of knowledge of good and evil and the ministry of death which is the law. The "greater light to rule the day" correlates with the tree of life, the ministry of the Spirit which brings life, the greater glory of the Promise of God. Now, allow me to show you something further about the "day" and "night."

Genesis 1:1-5 (KJV)

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. **And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep**. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. **And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night**. And the evening and the morning were the **first** day.

Genesis 1:14-19 (KJV)

And God said, **Let there be lights** in the firmament of the heaven **to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years** : and let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. And God made **two great lights** ; the **greater light** to rule the day, and the **lesser light** to rule the night: he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the **fourth** day.

On the first day of creation, we find mention of "darkness" and "light" and we are told that "God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night." Here we have the two components necessary for time. But it is not until the fourth day of creation that we read, "And God said, 'Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to _divide the day from the night_ ; and let them be for _signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years_.'" So on the _first_ day of creation are the components of time but on the _fourth_ day of creation are the elements of the sun, moon, and stars to divide it so that there are signs, seasons, days and years. Consider the following.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-5 (NKJV)

But concerning **the times and the seasons** , brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. For when they say, "Peace and safety!" then sudden destruction comes upon them, **as labor pains upon a pregnant woman**. And they shall not escape. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, so that this Day should overtake you as a thief. You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.

These passages show that the natural light of the sun, moon and stars reflects the spiritual principles of the work of God. The "times" of our Creator involve both the _greater light_ of the New Covenant and the _lesser light_ of the Old while the "seasons," which are necessary for planting and harvesting, indicate our divine principle of sowing and reaping. Once again this shows that it is our Creator who has instituted these principles, not man. This also shows that the "day" of the Lord is not about natural time, but of a "cycle" or process of spiritual enlightenment which is being accomplished through the principle of sowing and reaping. For this reason, Paul likens the "day of the Lord" to "labor pains upon a pregnant woman" which is clearly symbolic of sowing and reaping on man's plane.

When we see time on the first day and the elements necessary for the dividing of it on the fourth day of creation, we must bring in the second and third days. Consider these passages in light of this understanding.

Daniel 7:25 (KJV)

And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until **a time and times and the dividing of time**.

Revelation 12:14 (NKJV)

But the woman was given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, where she is nourished for **a time and times and half a time** , from the presence of the serpent.

Time, Times, and the Dividing of Time (Half a Time)

Time

1st Day of Creation

Times

2nd and 3rd Days of Creation

Dividing of Time

4th Day of Creation

I don't wish to get into the prophecies of our two passages, but want to point out our phrase, "time and times and the dividing of time (half a time)." If we apply our principle as shown in the list, this phrase is speaking of the work of "creation" as evidenced by the number _four_.

Time, Times, and the Dividing of Time (Half a Time)

Time

1st Day of Creation

Light/Darkness

Times

2nd Day of Creation

Waters Above/Firmament [Heaven]/Waters Below

3rd Day of Creation

Earth/Sea/Grass, Herbs, Fruit Trees [Sowing]

Dividing of Time

4th Day of Creation

Two Great Lights

Greater Light to Rule the Day/Lesser Light to Rule the Night [Seasons/Reaping]

If our list is correct, we see in the natural creation a pattern of spiritual realities. We begin with time to end with the components necessary to divide it, to separate light from darkness and "rule" or govern over them. Also, let's go back to Isaiah, Chapter 11, and bring the first four of the seven Spirits of God into our list.

Time, Times, and the Dividing of Time

Time

1st Day of Creation

Light/Darkness

(Spirit of Wisdom)

Times

2nd Day of Creation

Waters Above/Firmament [Heaven]/Waters Below

(Spirit of Understanding)

3rd Day of Creation

Earth/Sea/Grass, Herbs, Fruit Trees [Sowing]

(Spirit of Counsel)

Dividing of Time

4th Day of Creation

Two Great Lights

Greater Light to Rule the Day/Lesser Light to Rule the Night [Seasons/Reaping]

(Spirit of Might)

When we bring our four Spirits of God into our list, we find a pattern established that reveals the following. All things begin with and issue from the _wisdom_ of our Maker. "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the _Father of lights_ (sun, moon, and stars), with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning" (James 1:17; NKJV). As we move through this human experience, we experience this wisdom from above, that "is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy" (James 3:17; NKJV). This wisdom leads us into _understanding_ , that descends like the rain from the waters above as we are _counseled_ by His divine principle of sowing and reaping. And as we are humbled by our experience of the natural man who is perishing, our inward man is renewed and strengthened "day by day" (Luke 11:3; II Cor. 4:16). "For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing _Him,_ being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all _might_ , according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light" (Col. 1:9-12; NKJV).

Now, let's revisit some passages in Mark, Chapter 4, where we find the spiritual meaning of both _three_ and _four_ which also agrees with our current consideration.

Mark 4:26-29 (NKJV)

And He said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the **seed** (1) should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first **the blade** (2), then **the head** (3), after that **the full grain in the head** (4). But **when the grain ripens** (5), immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come."

Earlier, we considered the spiritual meaning of three in this parable. However, note where I have placed the numbers 1 through 4, this time beginning with the "seed." In verse 28, the Lord ends with the _fourth_ element, the "full grain in the head." He then refers back to this fourth element and states, "But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come." As you can see, I've added the number 5 to this statement.

Here was the first pattern we presented that gives us the spiritual meaning of the number _three_ , the "work" of the seed _above_ the ground.

1. First the blade

2. Then the head

3. After that the full grain in the head

But let's add the seed to our pattern.

1. The seed

2. First the blade

3. Then the head

4. After that the full grain in the head

When we add the seed, we now have _four_ ; the number of "creation" and our pattern shows all the stages between the sowing of seed and the maturity of its fruit which makes it ready for harvest.

1. The seed

2. First the blade

3. Then the head

4. After that the full grain in the head

5. When the grain ripens... the harvest has come

This shows us that the fourth thing, the "full grain in the head," sets up the grain for harvest. And what is done in a harvest? In the Parable of the Wheat and Tares, it is seen as the separation (dividing) of the tares from the wheat (Matt. 13:24-30; 24:37-41; 25:32; Rev. 14:14-20). So in the same way that the wheat is divided from the tares, the "two great lights" needed to "divide the light from the darkness" are used to accomplish this separation. As our listing shows, this is the fifth element, the number which stands for "sin" or "grace." The work of separation divides that which comes from the natural man (sin) from that which comes from the spiritual man (grace). This separation is always a work of grace, for where sin abounds, grace does much more abound (Rom. 5:20). Remember, the principle of sowing and reaping is universal and always present. Not for a single moment are we left to our own devices. We are constantly reaping what we sow and continually reminded by it that we are in need of the light of the Father within our being.

Our pattern shows that a harvest takes place when "the full grain in the head" is realized. Let's bring this _fourth_ segment to some passages in Revelation that contain a mystery.

Revelation 6:7-8 (KJV)

And when he had opened the **fourth** seal, I heard the voice of the **fourth** beast say, come and see. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the **fourth** part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

Is it just coincidence that our passages in Revelation speak of the "fourth" seal, the voice of the "fourth" beast, and power is given to Death and Hell over the "fourth part" of the earth? If the number _four_ denotes that a harvest is imminent, would the power given to death and hell "over the fourth part of the earth" refer to this harvest? In other words, when we sow to our flesh or "earth," we eventually "reap" the "corruption" of the temporary life of the form because we are in opposition to the principles of the kingdom of God? Also note that we have _three fours_ in this passage (fourth seal, fourth beast, fourth part). Together, this makes _twelve_ , the number of "governmental perfection" (Bullinger).

Our three fours are obvious, but notice the phrase, "to kill with _sword_ , and with _hunger_ , and with _death_ , and with the _beasts of the earth_." Isn't this another four? And when we add this to our _three fours_ , we now have _four fours_ or _sixteen_ , the number which stands for _love_ (I Cor. 13:4-8). Is this just a coincidence?

Who instituted the principle of sowing and reaping and set it into motion from the beginning of creation? Our heavenly Father. So I emphasize that what we are seeing in the fourth seal and the presentation of death and hell are simply analogies that show that we reap corruption (death) when we sow to our own flesh. As the writer of Hebrews states, "It is _appointed_ unto men once to _die_ , but after this the _judgment_ " (Heb. 9:27; KJV). For this reason, we find a _fifth_ rider after the _fourth_ one defined as "hell" as well as the _judgment_ and _vengeance_ of God in the _fifth_ seal (Rev. 6:10). It is evident that God's Word or wisdom "governs" (12) all the affairs of men through the principles of sowing and reaping, further enhanced and understood through the Two Covenants that He has instituted. This reveals that our fourth rider of _death_ symbolizes _our appointment to it_ , the immutable fact that all of us begin our earthly journey as a natural being, and that "Hell" therefore, simply points to the judgment which follows, not future, but present. Hell speaks of the suffering we encounter when we sow to our flesh, but its intent is remedial. The Greek definition of "Hell" in this passage is "unseen" (Rev. 6:8). Consider this definition in light of the Lord's statement to Nicodemus in John 3:8. Meaning "unseen," Jesus declared, "Except a man be born again (from above), he _cannot see_ the kingdom of God."

Now, let's bring our pattern to a set of passages in the book of James.

James 1:12-15 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed (1). Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin (2); and sin (3), when it is full-grown, brings forth death (4).

Here James addresses temptation. Consider verses 14 and 15 and our corresponding numbers 1 through 4.

1. The seed [Drawn away by his own desires and enticed]

2. First the blade [When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin]

3. Then the head [Sin]

4. After that the full grain in the head [Sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death]

Remember, _four_ is the "world" number, "of man in his relation to the world as created" (Bullinger), and the world of form is the first _foundation_ on which we learn to settle. Bullinger also writes, "Four marks division also. For the river was "parted." It is the first number which is not a "prime," the first which can be "divided," so this number incorporates the indirect idea of man's testing and experience on this earthly plane through the process of the sowing and reaping of our natural man, our soul or self (Luke 6:47-49). We could in essence say that the _fourfold_ process of the soul and temptation can be realized and gives definition to the "foundation of the world" which Jesus spoke about (Matt. 13:35; 25:34; Luke 11:50). Our pattern in James confirms our _four_ stages that define the "foundation" of the world, so let's create a list for reference.

The Foundation of the World

(The Fourfold Process of the Soul)

1. The seed | Drawn away by his own desires and enticed

2. First the blade | When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin

3. Then the head | Sin

4. After that the full grain in the head | When it is full-grown, brings forth death

When we bring our pattern to our passages in I John, Chapter 2, concerning "all that is in the world," we have a better understanding of what John meant when he defined this as "the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes" (I John 2:16; KJV). Our desires for the things that relate to the human form can lead to the sin that "brings forth death" when our "pride of life" causes us to place more importance on the things we want over the needs of our fellow man. To be raw and honest, most of the suffering we know is a result of selfishness and our excess has become others scarcity.

All that we have considered up to this point reveals to us the purpose of the Two Covenants. As I stated earlier, the principle of sowing and reaping is the universal structure of all things that exist. Why? Because the Two Covenants, the Old and the New, are the focal point of the entire Bible. What began with Adam ended with Christ, and what began with Christ shall end as God has determined. Since the days of Christ and the apostles, the Two Covenants have been working in parallel until such time that the Old Covenant shall "vanish away" (Heb. 8:13; NKJV). And this is assured inasmuch as it was our Creator who set all of this in motion since the beginning of time. Let's take a moment to consider what we mean by "covenant."

The word "covenant" means "properly a _disposition_ , i.e. (special) a _contract_ (especially a devisory _will_ )." In the Bible, a "covenant" involved a promise or promises which included commitment, faithfulness and loyalty even unto death. It was considered serious and sacred and never entered into lightly by those involved.

In scripture, whenever a covenant was instituted between God and man, _God is always seen as the initiator_. Man did not come to God with a proposal seeking God's approval, rather God came to man declaring His will and seeking man's adherence. A covenant is a _contract_ between God and man _instituted by God_ and _presented_ to man. We can either accept it or reject it, but we cannot change it. However, the usage of "covenant" does not always contain the idea of _joint obligation_ , but may signify an obligation undertaken by God alone. In these instances, the characteristics of a covenant are emphasized in "the promise" (Galatians 3:17; Romans 15:8).

When we realize that the Old and New Covenants are the law of sowing and reaping, then we understand their importance. The law was given to "rule the night," to bring order to the chaos which man creates when he walks in the darkness of the mind of form, to emphasize the suffering he causes when he sows to his flesh and disregards his God and his fellow man. The Promise was given "to rule the day," for those who sow to the Spirit, the "children of light, and the children of the day" who are "not of the night, nor of darkness" (I Thess. 5:5; KJV). It speaks of a higher way of thinking and doing, of walking in obedience to the Covenant and Promise of God that removes one from the suffering and chaos of the darkness that exists within. Both the law and Promise were given by God to man and man cannot change nor alter them. Our freedom from darkness begins with an acknowledgment and acceptance of these Two Covenants, the principles of sowing and reaping. Throughout the many generations that have come and gone, we are reaping what we have sown; we have created the suffering or blessing that is evident in humankind.

John 3:19-21 (KJV)

And this is the condemnation, that **light** is come into the world, and men loved **darkness** rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil **hateth the light** , neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth **cometh to the light** , that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

1 John 5:19 (KJV)  
... and the whole world lieth in wickedness.

Like Israel of old, the law is our tutor to bring us to Christ (Gal. 3:24; NKJV), to the higher law of spiritual love that transcends the necessity of the boundaries of a natural law to restrict our behavior through the fear of consequences. The New Covenant Promise of God to put His laws into our minds and write them on our hearts reflects the second component of sowing and reaping—"but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life" (Gal. 6:8; NKJV). It is God who instigated the process and it is God who brings it to its determined result.

Hebrews 8:13 (NKJV)

In that He says, "A new covenant," **He has made the first obsolete**. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old **is ready to vanish away**.

Revelation 21:1 (NKJV)

Now **I saw a new heaven and a new earth** , for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away.

The first covenant was made "obsolete" by the entrance and ministry of Christ. "Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away." So for now both covenants remain until such time that "a new heaven and a new earth" arises. The passing of the "first heaven and the first earth" signifies man ascending out of the unconsciousness of his present existence under the law into the consciousness of the kingdom of God, of the principles of righteousness, peace and joy found in sowing to the Spirit (Rom. 14:17).

1 Timothy 4:10 (NKJV)

For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, **who is the Savior of all men** , especially of those who believe.

How is the living God "the Savior of all men?" Through the principle of sowing and reaping, for both covenants reflect the law and the promise and take precedence over all humankind regardless of their language or culture and even religious beliefs. Both covenants, given through God, are the living and dynamic Word that oversees our behavior, whether we walk in darkness or light. No one is exempt.

Galatians 6:7 (NKJV)

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for **whatever a man** sows, that he will also reap.

In confirmation, we read, "For whatever a man sows." What is meant by this if not every man?

Matthew 4:4 (NKJV)

But He answered and said, "It is written, ' **Man** shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.' "

Again, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." Doesn't this mean every man as well? If the living God is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe, then isn't He the Savior of those who don't? And how is it that He is our Savior if not through the principles of both covenants?

Finally, if it is true that the "greater light" of the sun and the "lesser light" of the moon present to us a symbolic representation of the covenants, then both day and night, light and darkness, are accounted for. When we bring day and night together, we have a full _twenty-four_ hour day and nothing or no one is left out of the process. Consider the following description of the spiritual meaning of _twenty-fou_ r from Bullinger.

Twenty-four being a multiple of twelve, expresses in a higher form the same signification (as 22 does of 11). It is the number associated with the heavenly government and worship, of which the earthly form in Israel was only a copy. We are told that both Moses and David ordered all things connected with the Tabernacle and Temple worship by direct revelation from God, and as a copy of things in the heavens, Hebrews 8:5; 1 Chronicles 28:12, 19. And the sevenfold phrase (in Exo 40) "as the LORD commanded Moses" witnesses to the Divine ordering of all. It was so with the twenty-four courses of priests in the earthly Temple; these were formed on the "pattern of things in the heavens." In Revelation 4, we read of the twenty-four heavenly elders, who are the twelve Patriarchs from the Old Testament and the twelve Apostles from the New.

As we can see from this description, _twenty-four_ is the number associated with the "priesthood." David distributed the priesthood among _twenty-four_ of the descendants of Aaron (I Chron. 24:1-18) and is first seen in the Old Testament in relation to the Tabernacle of Witness (Num. 17:8; 18:2). Its spiritual application is found in the New Testament (Heb. 7:24; I Peter 2:5, 9; Rev. 4:4; 5:9-10). And what is the purpose of a priesthood? It is to intercede for others and minister through and by means of the Word of God (as defined in the covenants). We should also realize that twenty-four is _two_ times _twelve_ , the number of _division_ and _witness_ times the number of _divine government_. Within the scope of our Two Covenants is found all that is necessary to govern humankind.

Romans 3:29-31 (NIV)

Is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles (nations) too? Yes, of Gentiles (nations) too, since there is only one God, **who will justify the circumcised by faith** and the **uncircumcised through that same faith**. Do we, then, nullify the law by this faith? Not at all! Rather, _we uphold the law_.

At this point, it becomes important to consider the distinction between the terms "Jews" and "Gentiles" as used in the Bible. It might surprise you to know that the word "Gentiles" is not found in the original languages of the Bible. This word was placed in the King James Version of the Bible by the translators, who changed the wording of the Bible centuries after the last book of the Bible was written.

In the Hebrew manuscripts of the Old Testament, the word "Gentile" is not used. There is no such word in Hebrew, nor any word which corresponds to it. When you find the word "Gentile" in the Old Testament, it is a mistranslation of the Hebrew word "Goy," which means "nation." The plural of this word is "Goyim" (see Gen. 12:2 and 25:23 in the King James Version).

In the New Testament, the word mistranslated as "Gentile" is nearly always the Greek word, "Ethnos" which means "nation," the same as the Hebrew word "Goy" (see Luke 7:5 and John 11:50 in the King James Version).

So what is the point? Just keep in mind that whenever you see the word "Gentile" in the Bible, remember that the correct word is "nation," "race," or "people." Sometimes it is used when speaking of Israel and sometimes it is used to speak of any nation but Israel. The context in which it is found shows which meaning to give it. In Romans 3:29 and 30, Paul makes the distinction between Jew and Gentile by speaking of those who are "circumcised" and those who are not. In other words, when we apply Romans 2:28-29 and I Timothy 4:10 to this distinction, we are speaking of "those who believe" as opposed to those who don't.

So why is this important? Because it lends strength to the understanding that God "is the Savior of _all_ men," not just those who believe. The principle of sowing and reaping works, whether we acknowledge or believe in it, does it not? "Is God the God of Jews (believers; circumcised in heart; New Covenant) only? Is He not the God of Gentiles (nations; race; people; uncircumcised; Old Covenant) too? Yes, of Gentiles (nations) too, since there is only one God, who will justify the circumcised (Jews) by faith and the uncircumcised (nations) through that same faith" (Rom. 3:29; NIV).

James 4:11-12 (NIV)

Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

Just as the light of the moon is traced back to the light of the sun, so the laws of society can be traced to the divine laws of God. Before these laws were written down in external form, they existed in our conscience as illustrated by the story of Adam; we were aware of these laws long before they were given to Moses and the children of Israel after their exodus from Egypt. It was inevitable then that we would need these written laws to dictate to each other what was right and wrong and the resulting penalties if we deviated from them.

James wrote, "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy." Without a doubt, the law came from the Father of creation, and was destined to find its way into all humankind as a means to expose and condemn our unrighteous acts toward each other and the rest of creation.

In direct contrast, the New Covenant promise to write His laws into our minds and hearts transcends any written law, for its intent is to change the selfish nature which dwells in all of us. When the love of God is fully realized in our heart and mind and the ego or self is completely eradicated, we will find ourselves in a place where the law is no longer necessary. Commandments such as "you shall not murder" or "you shall not steal" will not need reiterating because the love for all creation, all life forms, will not allow such thoughts to even exist in our mind. We won't stop doing these things because we have to, or because we are afraid of the penalty we might incur, _but because we want to_. We will come to discover that when we sow to the Spirit, we will reap life; we will move away from the "lesser light" of what is true (the law) to the glorious manifestation of the "greater light" of what is truth (the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus).

### CHAPTER ELEVEN

The Law of Sin and Death

Daniel 2:31-33 (KJV)

Thou, O king, sawest, and behold a great image. This great image, whose brightness was excellent, stood before thee; and the form thereof was terrible. This image's head was of fine gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of brass, his legs of iron, his feet part of iron and part of clay.

Our image is now complete. In summary, we have discovered that the "head of gold" symbolizes the _mind_ of man, our _thinking_ , the _place of knowledge_ and that which is "god" of our being. But knowledge is not enough. Through _affection_ , our _desire_ to know and be known, knowledge joins with the "breast" and "arms of silver," our _heart_ , the _place of understanding_. This joining of knowledge and understanding is symbolized by the "belly" and "thighs of brass," representing _sowing and reaping_ , the _union of knowledge and understanding_ within that forms and "births" the _wisdom_ or _firstborn child_ of our being, the "soul" or "self," our _temporal identity_ by which we are known and through which we come to know the world around us. The "self" then becomes our _purpose_ and _meaning_ in this world of form, the _foundation_ on which we settle, symbolized by the "legs of iron." Finally, we have found that the movement or push of our self will is seen in the "feet part of iron and part of clay," which is restricted by the principle of sowing and reaping reflected in the "ten toes" or Ten Commandments, signifying the law of God seen in the laws of each society and in our conscience.

1 Corinthians 15:22 (NKJV)

For **as in Adam all die** , even so in Christ all shall be made alive.

Let's do a recap. The phrase "as in Adam" means that he _is representative of every person_ , the definition itself meaning " _ruddy_ , i.e. a _human being_ (an _individual_ or the _species_ , _mankind_ , etc.)" and thus used interchangeably with the word "man" in Genesis. The story of Adam is the story of you and I and how we enter into this world to become a "living soul" (I Cor. 15:45) that eventually falls into the darkness and death of the mind of form. Why? Because the principle of sowing and reaping necessitates it. Without the construct of the discipline of death, we would simply destroy ourselves out of arrogance. For this reason Paul wrote that "the creature," that which the Strong's Concordance defines as the "original _formation_ ," man (humankind), "was _made subject to vanity, not willingly_ , but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption (sow to the flesh) into the glorious liberty of the children of God (sow to the Spirit)" (Rom. 8:20-21; KJV).

In the phrase "bondage of corruption," the word "corruption" means " _decay_ , i.e. _ruin_ (spontaneous or inflicted, literal or figurative)." It is the same word used in Galatians 6:8 which reads, "For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap _corruption_."

Genesis 2:7 (KJV)

And the LORD God **formed** man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

The word "formed" in this passage is given as "to _mold_ into a form; especially as a _potter_ ; figurative to _determine_ (i.e. form a resolution)." Doesn't the idea of a "potter" once again point to the clay seen in the feet of Nebuchadnezzar's image?

Coming back to our word "creature" meaning "original _formation_ ," the word "archetype" comes to mind. The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines "archetype" as "An original model or type after which other similar things are patterned; a prototype" and "In Jungian psychology, an inherited pattern of thought or symbolic imagery derived from the past collective experience and present in the individual unconscious." Both of these definitions fit well with our current perspective.

So Adam is an _archetype_ , the original model (formation) or pattern which signifies how all of us are formed when we enter into this physical plane. As this study indicates, the process which follows is given in symbolic form in the book of Genesis or "origin" (beginning).

Remember, darkness speaks of _form_ and that which gives it life is _light_. So all that was formed in the "evening and morning" of darkness is given life by the "morning and evening" of light. The highest form of light is our Creator. As John wrote, "God _is_ light, and in Him is no darkness at all" (I John 1:5; KJV). Just as the natural light of the sun is needed to give light and life to all living things on this planet, so too the spiritual wisdom of our heavenly Father is necessary for our light and life within.

The fact that our human bodies were shaped from the "dust of the ground" (Gen. 2:7) tells us that we, like all life forms on earth, were designed to eventually pass away. When our heavenly Father "breathed" into us, He placed that which was formless and eternal into that which was form and temporary. So it is that we are both natural and spiritual creatures, human beings and spiritual beings. We are truly "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalms 139:14).

Romans 5:12 (KJV)

Wherefore, **as by** one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned...

Romans 5:18 (KJV)

Therefore **as by** the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation...

Romans 5:19 (KJV)

For **as by** one man's disobedience many were made sinners...

The word "as" in verses 12 and 19 is the Greek word _hōsper_ which means, " _just as_ , i.e. _exactly like_." The word "as" in verse 18 is _hōs_ from which the other two words are taken and means, " _which how_ , i.e. _in that manner_." Both of these definitions confirm that Adam _is representative of all_. Like Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the story of Adam is an understanding of the exponential principle of one to many. Adam, who was one "seed" of the human species shows how every "seed" follows the same pattern. Adam is the archetype of the natural man and the first generation of mankind from which all other generations have evolved.

Paul wrote, "However, the spiritual is not first, _but the natural_ , and _afterward the spiritual_ " (I Cor. 15:46; NKJV), so in its simplest form, the writings of the Old Testament show _the creation and presentation of the natural man_. In direct contrast, the writings of the New Testament show _the creation and presentation of the spiritual man_. For this reason, Paul discusses two "Adams," the "first" who "was made a living soul" (I Cor. 15:45; KJV), and the "last" who "was made a quickening (life-giving) spirit" (I Cor. 15:45; KJV), two representatives of the natural and the spiritual in proper order. The fact that Paul used the name "Adam" connects and confirms both as archetypes.

In Adam, we see the _one_ that is representative of the _many_ , a city or kingdom. In the dream of Nebuchadnezzar, we see a "king," also one who is representative of the many over which he ruled. The exponential principle of sowing and reaping is clearly evident.

All cities or kingdoms are "collective," meaning that they are made up of many individuals and the strength of any collective is maintained by its numbers, whether in ignorance of or agreement to the principles which this collective has decided on.

In our previous chapter, we discovered that the spiritual meaning of _four_ led to a pattern found in Mark, Chapter 4, and James, Chapter 1, which shows how our desires lead to sin which then results in death, a state of being where we live after the corruption of the mind of form. We saw in the story of Adam and Eve that this is symbolized by the eating of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Look again at our passages from James, Chapter 1.

James 1:14-15 (NKJV)

But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

We can actually break this passage down in a more precise pattern to find _six_ components. Bullinger states, "Six is either 4 plus 2, i.e., man's world (4) with man's enmity to God (2) brought in: or it is 5 plus 1, the grace of God made of none effect by man's addition to it, or perversion, or corruption of it: or it is 7 minus 1, i.e., man's coming short of spiritual perfection." With this in mind, consider the following.

**Temptation** :

1. Drawn away by desire

2. Enticed

3. Desire conceives

4. Desire gives birth to sin

5. Sin becomes "full-grown"

6. Brings forth death

Our list, along with the spiritual meaning of _six_ , show how the _desires_ of our natural man "brings forth death." If we step through our list, we see that the temptation that leads to sin _begins with desire_ , with _a longing_ for something that we don't currently possess. Remember, John said "all that is in the world" consists of the "lust" or longings of both the flesh and eyes, indicating that it pertains to the human form and what we see. However, the intent behind the thoughts which tempt us is found in the phrase, "the _boasting_ of what he has and does" (I John 2:15-17; NIV). In other words, it is the vanity of the self to either have or possess something we currently don't and thus do something we haven't yet done in order to possess it. This shows us that the actions we often take are in order to satisfy some longing based out of pride, how we, the creature, were made subject to vanity (Rom. 8:20-21). Of course, this does not mean that every desire we have is evil, it simply reveals to us how we were designed to function. While we exist in this world of form, there are basic desires or needs that must be met, which is perfectly normal. The definition of "need" states, "A condition or situation in which something is required or wanted" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex online). Note the contrast between "required" and "wanted." This helps us with our understanding of sin, which in essence is to "want" something that isn't required for our well-being. Paul wrote, "Now godliness _with contentment_ is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, _with these we shall be content_ " (I Tim. 6:6; NKJV). Sin arises when our longing for something leads us to harm our neighbor in order to have it or do it (Rom. 13:8-10; NKJV).

Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

And as it is appointed unto men once to die...

Here we read that "it is appointed unto men once to die." Again, I don't believe this passage refers to the normal and natural process of the dying of the human form. Rather, it applies to the state of the soul once it falls into the darkness of the mind of form.

Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

... but after this the judgment...

Hebrews continues with "but after this the judgment." First, our Creator made our human forms as the temporary abode of our spirit and soul. He then followed it with the principle of sowing and reaping that serves as the "judgment" of the deeds done in this body (Psalms 62:12; Prov. 24:12; Rom. 2:6; Rev. 2:23). In other words, for each choice we make, there is a corresponding result already defined in this principle and reflected in the law. If what we do proceeds out of the love of form, it will return corruption. If what we do is in alignment with the principles of the kingdom of God, it will return life.

Genesis 2:15-17 (NKJV)

Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to tend and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for **in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die**."

Romans 5:12 (NKJV)

Therefore, **just as through one man** sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned...

Look closely at verse 17 of Genesis, Chapter 2. Concerning the tree of knowledge, Adam is told, "for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." Being the archetype, we are given a picture of _one_ to show how _all_ of us die. "For _just as_ through one man," in other words, "just as" we see Adam's death through disobedience, so everyone dies in the same fashion. And how did death enter? Sin, or disobedience (I John 3:4), "entered the world" first and "death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned." Note that "all sinned," indicating that each one of us is responsible for our own death and confirms that Adam is an illustration of this. If our story in Genesis is an accurate picture, then each of us reap "corruption" or "death" because we, not anyone else, "sow" to our own flesh. As we will see in a moment, Paul called this the law of sin and death found in our members.

Within the principle of sowing and reaping we find this element of death, for Paul wrote, "Foolish one, what you sow is not made alive _unless it dies_ " (I Cor. 15:36; NKJV). Paul then writes, "When you sow, _you do not plant the body that will be_ , but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something else. But God _gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body_ " (I Cor. 15:37; NIV). In other words, what you plant is the seed, but what is returned is the "body" of the seed, whether a flower, tree and so on. But in order for this to happen, the seed must die; _death is a requirement_. This shows us that the process of death is necessary to produce the "body" or form, for what begins as a seed becomes "its own body." In this we see how the "firstborn child" of self begins in seed form and then dies in order to arise and mature into a "natural body" or "natural man."

Romans 7:24 (KJV)

O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from **the body of this death**?

If the seed which is planted is a fruit tree, then the "body" of that seed is the tree itself. And what are we presented with in the story of Adam and Eve and the Garden of Eden? A "tree" or "body" of knowledge of good and evil. Does this represent "the body of this death" that Paul spoke about in Romans 7:24? I believe it does, and the "body of this death" refers to the mind or thinking set exclusively upon this human form, what we have defined as the natural man.

In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus taught that the "ground" represents the heart of man (Matt. 13:19) while the "seed" is the Word of God (Luke 8:11). Of course, it is the "seed" which produces the tree, right? Yet, a tree cannot exist apart from the ground. Though separate, the seed and the ground _must be joined_ in order for a tree to be formed.

Romans 7:14-20 (NIV)

14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 **As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me**. 18 I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20 **Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it**.

Just as a tree is a separate component from the ground to which it is joined, Paul establishes the same idea concerning sin in these passages, especially verses 17 and 20. The evil that Paul did not want to do was what he did, however, he made it evident that, "As it is, _it is no longer I myself who do it_ , but it is sin living in me." In other words, this "tree" or "body" inside of me is separate from me, yet, it affects me because it is joined to the ground of my heart.

Romans 7:21-23 (NIV)

So **I find this law at work** : When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but **I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind** and making me a prisoner of **the law of sin** at work within my members.

Once Paul establishes that sin is "living" in him, he describes this as a " _law_ at work in the members of my body." He then calls it "the _law_ of sin at work within my members." If we move further into Romans, Chapter 8, Paul calls it "the _law_ of sin and death" (Rom. 8:2). The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines _law_ as, "A rule of conduct or procedure established by custom, agreement, or authority." So, being a law established by the authority of our Creator, and unlike the laws of humankind, it is an unarguable edict to which all of us are subject. Would this law be the principle of sowing to our flesh and reaping corruption? It is. Would this also be "the body (tree) of this death (knowledge of good and evil)" that he speaks of in Romans 7:24? It is, and the point again is this – like a tree, this principle or law is a separate component that is sown into the "ground" of our hearts that then becomes an integral part of our being. Our story of Adam and Eve confirms this since the tree of knowledge is presented as separate from Adam and Eve (Gen. 3:1-6). Note too that Paul states, "When I want to do _good_ , _evil_ is right there with me," indicating both the _good_ and _evil_ of this "tree."

In direct contrast to the law of sin, Paul states, "For in my inner being (inward man; KJV) I delight in God's law" and speaks of "the _law_ of my mind." In Romans 8:2, Paul defines this as "the _law_ of the Spirit of life." No doubt this refers to our second segment of sowing to the Spirit (Eph. 4:23). Further confirmation is found in the following passage.

Galatians 2:20 (NKJV)

I have been crucified with Christ; **it is no longer I who live** , but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

Like the law of sin symbolized by the tree of knowledge, Paul speaks of Christ living in him, that "it is no longer I who live." Wouldn't this be what is symbolized as "the tree of life?" And if it is Christ, not Paul, who is living, wouldn't that be separate from Paul, yet joined to him just like our first tree? This confirms _the duality of our being and why all of us go through conflict and struggle within_. Just as Cain rose up against his brother Abel, so does the natural man of our being contend with the spiritual man of our being. As Paul stated, "I see _another law_ at work in the members of my body, _waging war_ against _the law of my mind_ and making me a prisoner of _the law of sin_ at work within my members."

Colossians 1:16 (KJV)

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him...

In summary, the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden represents "the law of sin and death" in our members which begins as a seed to form the "body of this death," the "natural body" or "man" who is opposed to the things of the Spirit of God. On the other hand, the tree of life symbolizes our surrender to "the law of God" from our inner being or spirit, where we "delight in God's law." In other words, we know what is right in our spirit, but we resist it out of the carnal mind which was formed in us as children. Both "bodies" if you will, begin with the same "seed" of the Word of God, because the principle of sowing and reaping relates to first the natural, and then too the spiritual aspects of our existence; it is essentially one law. Though there are two segments to this principle, they are like two sides of one coin. One side is dependent upon the other. Remember, "The law," or first side of this principle, "is spiritual," the second side of this principle (Rom. 7:14). Colossians 1:16 confirms this stating, "For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, _visible_ and _invisible_ , whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him." When we speak of "thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers," wouldn't a law or laws be a necessary part of these "thrones" or "dominions?" This further substantiates Paul's statement in Romans – "For the creature was _made subject to vanity, not willingly_ , but by reason of Him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from _the bondage of corruption_ into _the glorious liberty of the children of God_ " (Rom. 8:20-21; KJV). The "bondage of corruption" refers to the law of sin and death in our members while the "glorious liberty of the children of God" refers to the law of God in our minds made spiritual through suffering. Let's return to Romans, Chapter 7, and consider what Paul wrote before he describes the "law of sin and death."

Romans 7:7-14 (NKJV)

What shall we say then? Is **the law** sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through **the law**. For I would not have known covetousness unless **the law** had said, "You shall not covet." But sin, taking opportunity by the **commandment** , produced in me all manner of evil desire. For apart from **the law** sin was dead. I was alive once without **the law** , but when the **commandment** came, sin revived and I died. And the **commandment** , which was to bring life, **I found to bring death**. For sin, taking occasion by the **commandment** , deceived me, and by it killed me. Therefore **the law** is holy, and the **commandment** holy and just and good. Has then what is good become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, that it might appear sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that sin through the **commandment** might become **exceedingly** sinful. For we know that **the law is spiritual** , but I am carnal, sold under sin.

Notice what I have bolded and the contrast which Paul gives between "the commandment" and "the law." "The commandment" refers to what God said to Adam in Genesis, _one_ commandment, while the law speaks of _all_ the commandments which God delivered to Moses and Israel. In other words, the _exponential_ principle becomes apparent in that the "seed" of the law is seen in the one "commandment" while the "body" of the law is seen in all the commandments. Confirmation is found in the word "exceedingly" (exceeding in the KJV). Consider the following from Vincent's Word Studies in the New Testament.

**Exceeding** (καθ' ὑπερβολὴν)

An adverbial phrase. Lit., _according to excess_. The noun ὑπερβολή means _a casting beyond_. The English _hyperbole_ is a transcription.

"Exceeding" is the word _hyperbolē_ and means, "a _throwing beyond_ others, i.e. (figurative) _supereminence_." This is the exponential principle. What began as one commandment with Adam became the law or many commandments with Moses and the nation of Israel. The one commandment is the "seed" of the law while the law, represented in the Ten Commandments, is the "body." Both exemplify the principle of sowing and reaping. Remember, _ten_ means that "the whole cycle is complete" (Bullinger). What begins with the one component of the "head of gold" (the commandment) ends with the "ten toes" of the feet (the law), showing that the free will of man is always restricted by the principle of reaping what we sow.

### Chapter Twelve

The Serpent

James 2:10-11 (NKJV)

**For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all**. For He who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law.

James states that when we "stumble in _one_ point" of the law, we are "guilty of _all_." Why is this? Consider the following.

Romans 12:4-5 (NKJV)  
For as we have **many members** in **one body** , but all the members do not have the same function, so we, **being** **many** , are **one body in Christ** , and **individually members of one another**.

1 Corinthians 12:12-21 (NKJV)  
For as **the body is one and has many members** , but all the members of that one body, being many, **are one body** , so also _is_ Christ. For **by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body** \--whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free-- **and have all been made to drink into one Spirit**. **For in fact the body is not one member but many**. If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body," is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body _were_ an eye, where _would be_ the hearing? If the whole _were_ hearing, where _would be_ the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they _were_ all one member, where _would_ the body _be?_ **But now indeed** _there are_ **many members, yet one body**. And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you"; nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you."

As these passages show, Paul likens believers as " _many_ members in _one_ body," so just as our human form consists of various members such as the head, arms, hands, feet, and so on, it is still just one body. This perspective helps to better describe "the law of sin and death" in our members, the " _body_ of this death" (Rom. 7:22-25). Though it is _one body_ , singular, it consists of many principles, _collectively_ , which make up "the whole law." So in the same way that an injured hand affects the other members of our body, stumbling in one point of the law does too, because all of its components are connected. And, when we transgress the law, the corresponding result of our disobedience affects not only ourselves, but also those who are a part of us. When we fail to see our interconnectedness with others, we invariably bring suffering to them because of our actions of self-absorption.

Look once more at these passages from Romans, Chapter 7.

Romans 7:7-11 (NKJV)

What shall we say then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, "You shall not covet." But sin, taking opportunity by the commandment, produced in me all manner of evil desire. For apart from the law sin was dead. I was alive once without the law, but when the commandment came, sin revived and I died. And the commandment, which was to bring life, I found to bring death. For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it killed me.

Romans 7:5 (NKJV)

For **when we were in the flesh** , the sinful passions which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death.

The phrase "when we were in the flesh" refers to the state of being, living primarily in our natural man. When we are in this state, then "the sinful passions" are "aroused by the law" and "bear fruit to death," this last phrase pointing to the "fruit" of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. But why is this? Why does this happen when we walk according to the mind of form? Look once more at the following.

James 1:14-15 (NKJV)

But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

**Temptation** :

1. Drawn away by desire

2. Enticed

3. Desire conceives

4. Desire gives birth to sin

5. Sin becomes "full-grown"

6. Brings forth death

I don't believe it's a coincidence that _six_ is the number "of imperfection; the human number; the number of man as destitute of God, without God, without Christ" (Bullinger), and James gives us _six_ steps which lead to death. As our steps indicate, it begins with desire, but look closely at the second element, the word "enticed." The Strong's Concordance defines this word as "to _entrap_ , i.e. (figurative) _delude_." So, what is the element that entices us, deceives us, and causes our desires to lead to sin and death? If we view the symbols found in the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis, it is of course the "serpent" (Gen. 3:1). And if we entertain the traditional view which has been handed down to us over past generations, we might see this entity as a separate being, a "fallen angel" if you will, that we know as the devil and Satan. However, by now we should realize that the story of Adam and Eve and the tree of knowledge of good and evil, the tree of life and the garden of Eden are just that—symbols that illustrate something deeper than what is seen on the surface. So allow me to challenge the traditional view of the serpent and what it represents. If Adam illustrates the mind and Eve the heart, then I believe the "serpent" also represents something found within the recesses of our mind and heart, within the construct of the natural man of our being. And what might this be? I believe it is the _imagination_.

Now what do I mean by imagination? My definition is _the creative power or ability of the mind_. The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) agrees with this, giving the definition as, "The ability to form mental images of things that are not present to the senses or not considered to be real," as well as, "The ability to confront and deal with reality by using the creative power of the mind; resourcefulness." When we bring this understanding to our passages in I John 2:15-17 concerning the "lusts" or "desires" of the flesh and eyes, it gives a better understanding of what is meant by "the boasting of what he (humankind) has and does" (I John 2:16; NIV). In other words, in our imagination is the ability to desire something beyond the present moment and entertain the fantasy of what it would be like to have or do it. It then leads to the various actions we take to experience or possess it.

Again, speaking outside the boundaries of the traditional view, the "serpent" in Genesis, Chapter 3, represents this element or component of imagination which exists in all of us. Like our perspective of darkness which simply represents what is visible, the serpent symbolizes this creative ability that all of us possess. This may seem difficult to grasp, but only in light of the fact that we have heard the other view for so long. Keep in mind that much of the traditional views we so fervently embrace today stand not because they are correct, but only because they have been passed down through so many generations. And let's be honest. Most of us are afraid to challenge these views even though there is a likelihood that what they express may be rooted in error. Logically, if it was wrong in the beginning, then it remains so regardless of how many generations have embraced it. Christ Himself dealt with this same problem with the religious leaders of His time. He even went so far as to say to them, "And _in vain they worship me_ , teaching as doctrines _the commandments of men_ " (Matt. 15:1-9; NKJV).

So let's take a moment to consider the traditional view. The serpent represents the devil and Satan, a fallen and yet very powerful angel who is able to fly around the world and wreck havoc in our lives through his minions, the demons (who are also fallen angels). These entities or spirits if you will, are able to "possess" people, so much so that they can take them over and use them for their nefarious plans. But here's the first hole in this concept. If this is even a bit true, then our Creator has no right to judge us, for our wicked acts are merely the product of something outside of ourselves. The second hole in this concept is this. Our sins are the result of the mind set on form, and angels, which are not physical beings (Matt. 22:30; Heb. 1:5, 7), cannot be tempted by this mind since they have never been human. Finally, the idea that Satan is a "fallen angel" is a misunderstanding of the symbolism in scripture. As an example, consider Isaiah 14:12, where we find the term "Lucifer" in the King James Bible. This is the only time this word is found, yet it is one of the most widely used words to describe the devil. Interestingly enough, the word "Lucifer" in this context is in reference to "the king of Babylon" as noted in Isaiah 14:4 who is clearly called a "man" in verse 16 of this same chapter. Another parallel used to support the idea of the devil as a fallen angel is taken from Ezekiel, Chapter 28, where we read about the "prince of Tyrus" and find the phrase "anointed cherub." No doubt, our misunderstanding of what a "cherub" represents lends itself to all types of supposition.

So let's go back to the idea that the "serpent" is a symbolism representing our imagination, _the creative ability of our mind_. This creative ability is hard to describe but most definitely an "invisible" element that is able to take us out of the present moment and into the past or the future, all within the recesses of our own thinking. It is the component that has led us to explore, discover, and invent the many things that we currently see in our society. From out of this creative ability of the mind of form, we have managed on one hand to find cures for diseases which have ravaged our species while on the other, devise implements of destruction that is hard for most of us to even consider; hence both elements of good and evil are found.

In Genesis 1:26 we read, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion" (KJV). So like our Creator, we have the ability of thought or thinking wherein we can take information and turn it into something understandable and usable. The element that allows us to do this _is the imagination_.

Over time, our dominion of this planet has been achieved by our knowledge and understanding via the imagination. A good example is a zoo, where we find some of the most dangerous creatures in this world confined by man's devices. Through the creative power of our mind, we have managed to discover, manipulate, create, and take advantage of many aspects of the earth, the seas, and even some of the vastness of the universe beyond.

In reference to sin and the framework of James 1:14-15, imagination is the component that deludes us by its power to fantasize outside of the present moment. This is why it is first seen as a "serpent" who was called "more _cunning_ than any _beast of the field_ which the Lord God had made" (Gen. 3:1; NKJV). Now in reference to the phrase " _beast_ of the _field_ ," consider that Jesus taught that "the _field_ is the world" (Matt. 13:38). Then consider the Apostle Peter's vision on the housetop in Acts, Chapter 10, where he has a vision, "Wherein were all manner of fourfooted _beasts_ of the earth, and wild _beasts_." Also consider the two _beasts_ which John sees in Revelation, Chapter 13. By no means do these symbols represent literal animals, but instead denote the dangerous, adversarial and _collective nature_ of the natural man we are discussing (Eccl. 3:18-19). So my point is this—the imagination or creative ability of the mind in all of us is one of the most fascinating aspects of our being, having the potential for good or evil, on a personal as well as a collective scale.

Genesis 6:5 (KJV)

And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every **imagination** (serpent) of the **thoughts** (Adam) of his **heart** (Eve) was only evil continually.

Most of us are familiar with the story of Noah and the flood which is recorded in the early chapters of Genesis. Preceding the flood, we find this passage. Consider where I have placed the words in parenthesis. In contrast with Eve and Adam's temptation recorded in Genesis, we find the imagination or "serpent" that appears in order to tempt the mind or thinking of man (Adam) through the channel of his "desire" or affection (Eve). Furthermore, if God had wished to wipe out the evil of man in the days of Noah, couldn't He have just destroyed this entity known as the devil once and for all?

Also seen in this passage is the power of man's imagination which begins with the one and leads to the many, to the point of man's wickedness becoming a collective force of "evil continually" (which I believe is also symbolized as the "bottomless pit" found in Revelation, Chapter 9). The collective power of the imagination of the natural man is the reason behind the suffering that we see in the world at large. Our desire to create, in conjunction with the mind of form has led us to the point where we are today, but behind much of it lies a destructive consequence that we often don't consider or refuse to acknowledge. Most of us simply take it for granted or have become desensitized to the harmful side effects that come with the so-called benefits.

Genesis 3:22 (KJV)

And the LORD God said, Behold, **the man is become as one of us** , to know **good and evil**...

Following Adam's fall into the mind of form, we read, "Behold, the man is become as one of us, _to know good and evil_." Not life, but _good and evil_. This is confirmed by the fact that God "sent him forth from the Garden of Eden" and "he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life" (Gen. 3:23, 24; KJV). Like our Maker, we are able to implement this creative ability, but when it pertains to form, it is either good or evil and not life. Through this ability, we have discovered how to manipulate or combine what God has made in the form-based world to create a multitude of things to our own advantage. And over time, we have managed to figure out and duplicate certain natural, creative processes as well. But despite all of this, we cannot create as our Maker creates. And we certainly cannot create the invisible components that make up the essence of what we are within. The elements and working of the heart and mind are beyond what we truly comprehend.

As we have discovered, when the mind is set on form, it cannot produce life, because "the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (I Cor. 2:14; NKJV). This shows that spiritual discernment must be received in the spiritual recesses of our being and will often seem contradictory to our present state of mind.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (KJV)

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) **casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God** , and bringing into captivity **every thought** to the obedience of Christ...

Earlier I said to seek for the knowledge of God is not to pursue understanding _about_ God, but _to know as God knows_ ; to _partake of the wisdom_ which comes from our heavenly Father. As Paul stipulates, our "warfare" is not outward in the world of form, but inward into the realm of thinking. For this reason, we are told to cast down our " _imaginations_ and every high thing that exalts itself against _the knowledge of God_." Clearly, what God knows is far different from what we know and too often our position of self-importance in the mind stands in the way of receiving this knowledge. For this reason, "the message of the cross _is foolishness_ to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: _'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent_ '" (I Cor. 1:18; NKJV). To put it simply, the message of the cross is the message of self-sacrifice, _the essence of humility_ , which is a necessary element needed to challenge our present state of mind. As long as we feel self-assured in our present mode of thought, we will not affect a change in the current state of affairs.

Revelation 13:1-2 (KJV)

And I stood upon the sand of the sea, **and saw a beast rise up out of the sea** , having **seven heads and ten horns** , and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

Now, let's take a moment to reconsider some of the most symbolic and confusing passages found in the book of Revelation that relate to the subject at hand. In Revelation, Chapter 13, note that John "saw a _beast_ rise up out of the sea." The word "beast" means "a _dangerous animal_ ," taken from the word which means "a wild _animal_ , as _game_ ; _hunting_ , i.e. (figurative) _destruction_." This is the same word used in Acts 10:12 in the phrase "wild beasts." As we have stated, man, more specifically the natural man of our being, is the most dangerous and destructive creature on the planet (see Ecclesiastes 3:18-21).

Isaiah 57:20-21 (KJV)

But **the wicked are like the troubled sea** , when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.

The beast, which John saw rising up "out of the sea." Water symbolizes the flow of knowledge out of our being (John 7:38-39; Eph. 5:26). The "sea" represents humankind without regard to race or culture, i.e. all nations (Matt. 13:47; Rom. 9:27; Rev. 10:2; 20:8, 13; 21:1; 1:15). John states matter of factly, "And we know that we are of God, and _the whole world_ lieth in _wickedness_ " (I John 5:19; KJV). So as Isaiah indicates, " _the wicked_ are like _the troubled sea_ , when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt." Since the natural man is not subject to the law of God, the lawlessness and restlessness of the world at large are easily identified in this. Out of this troubled stirring of mankind arises the dangerous and destructive nature of the self who continually opposes the peace and humility found in the principles of the kingdom of God.

Is it a coincidence that our beast shows _seven_ heads and _ten_ horns, and in Nebuchadnezzar's image we find _seven_ body parts which include the _ten_ toes? Are we seeing two different visions which represent the same thing? I believe so.

Like Nebuchadnezzar's image, the _seven_ heads of our beast shows the _four-square_ earth (4) in conjunction with the _divine completeness_ or 'work' (3) of God, in other words, _four_ , the "world number" and _three_ , the number of "work" which defines our principle of sowing and reaping.

Also remember that _ten_ means "the cycle is complete" (Bullinger), so in John's vision of the beast of the sea, we find the _totality_ of the conduct of the natural man who exists in the mind of form. When we consider the "ten toes" of Nebuchadnezzar's dream in contrast with the "ten horns" of the beast, we find a perfect complement; both signify the "push" of man's will upon his fellow man and against his Creator. For this reason we see "upon his heads the name of blasphemy." The word "blasphemy" means " _vilification_ (especially against God)." Vilification means, "To attack the reputation of (a person or thing) with strong or abusive criticism" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). This agrees with the understanding that the carnal mind is "enmity against God" (Rom. 8:7; KJV). Though subject to the law, we continually break it and often openly resist it, so we blaspheme the thing we are subject to (James 2:1-13). There are _seven_ heads, but just _one_ name, signifying the _collective_ nature of this blasphemy.

Now, notice the phrase, "and the _dragon_ gave him his power, and his _seat_ , and great authority." The word "seat" is defined as "a stately _seat_ (" _throne_ ")." This agrees with our understanding of the natural man's _dominion_ , of his power or authority over all species on this planet. And what gives him this power and throne? It is the "dragon," a word which means "a fabulous kind of _serpent_ ," in essence a much greater entity than what we first see in the book of Genesis. Once again, this shows that what begins as "one" becomes the _collective_ strength of the "many" and within this collective mind-frame is found the "seed" of the first lie that began the process (Gen. 3:1-5).

Revelation 13:11 (NKJV)  
Then I saw **another beast coming up out of the earth** , and he had **two horns like a lamb** and **spoke like a dragon**.

Following his vision of the beast which rises out of the sea, John sees "another _beast_ coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns _like a lamb_ , and he spake _as a dragon_." The word "beast" in this passage is the same Greek word and definition which we gave earlier, "a _dangerous animal_." So this also points to the untamed and dangerous nature of the natural man, however, this entity comes up "out of the earth" and not the sea.

1 Corinthians 15:47-49 (NKJV)

**The first man was of the earth** , made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven. **As was the man of dust, so also are those who are made of dust** ; and as is the heavenly Man, so also are those who are heavenly. And **as we have borne the image of the man of dust** , we shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man.

In contrast with "the first man Adam" (I Cor. 15:45), Paul tells us that "the first man was of the earth, _made of dust_." With this idea of "dust" in mind, consider the following passages.

Genesis 2:7 (KJV)

**And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground** , and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became **a living soul**.

Genesis 3:14 (NKJV)

So the Lord God said to the serpent: "Because you have done this, you are cursed more than all cattle, and more than every beast of the field; on your belly you shall go, and **you shall eat dust all the days of your life**.

Isaiah 65:25 (KJV)

... and **dust** shall be **the serpent's meat**.

Isaiah tells us that "dust shall be _the serpent's meat_ (food)." Paul states, "As was the man of dust, _so also are those who are made of dust_ " and Genesis 2:7 shows that this is all of us. "Dust" refers to "the first man" who is "made of dust," our _natural man_. Therefore the "meat" or "food" of the serpent is the imagination that works in conjunction with the mental processes of our natural man. Furthermore, Paul states, "And as _we_ have borne the _image_ of the man of dust," the word "we" indicating everyone and the word "image" denoting the imagination. Through the power of our imagination, are we not able to project an "image" or an idea of what something might be within the recesses of our own mind before it's a reality? And aren't ideas the foundation of any discovery? Not surprisingly, one of the definitions of "image" is "To picture mentally; imagine" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). Furthermore, imagination is implied in the statement, "two horns _like_ a lamb" (imagination) but " _spoke_ like a dragon" (reality). No wonder Jesus said, "These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their _heart_ is far from me" (Matt. 15:8; NKJV). Remember that the serpent _deceived_ Eve, the "heart" of man, so Jesus also said, "But those things which proceed out of the mouth _come from the heart_ , and they defile a man" (Matt. 15:18; NKJV).

Remember our concept pertaining to the natural "body" and the spiritual "body," and the fact that both begin with a "seed" of knowledge. Wouldn't this suggest that the "body" formed from knowledge would in essence be an "image," a mental picture or idea that is invisible within yet made visible by the actions which proceed from it? So in reference to the beast which comes up out of the earth we read, "And he _deceives_ those who dwell on the earth _by those signs_ which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast (of the sea), telling those who dwell on the earth to make an _image_ to the beast (of the sea) who was wounded by the sword and lived" (Rev. 13:14; NKJV). What "deceives" us? It is the inner working of our own imagination. Isn't it true that most, if not all of our religious mental structures have been formed out of our own creative thinking? And wouldn't a "carnal" or fleshly mind produce "carnal" or fleshly thinking? In other words, the mind of form thinks on and about the form. And if our form is "dust," then doesn't this indicate that the "serpent's meat" speaks of those things which relate to form, of the imagination using the elements of the form-based world as the means by which it "creates?" Furthermore, the word "dust" in _all three_ of our previous passages is the same and reads, "from H6080 (`aphar); _dust_ (as _powdered_ or _gray_ ); hence _clay, earth, mud_."

Genesis 3:14 (NKJV)

So the Lord God said to the serpent: "Because you have done this, **you are cursed** more than all cattle, and more than every beast of the field; on your belly you shall go, and you shall eat dust all the days of your life.

Looking once more in Genesis, we see that the serpent was "cursed." This word is defined by the Strong's Concordance as "to _execrate_." The definition of "execrate" from The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) reads, "1) To declare to be hateful or abhorrent; denounce, 2) To feel loathing for; abhor, and, 3) _Archaic_ ; to invoke a curse on." I immediately think of the following from Proverbs.

Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV)

**These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him** : A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans (imaginations; KJV), feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.

Here we are told there are "six things" the Lord hates, and "seven are an abomination to him." This word "abomination" is defined as "properly something _disgusting_ (moral), i.e. (as noun) an _abhorrence_ ; especially _idolatry_ or (concrete) an _idol_." This agrees with our definition of "curse" and shows that the "curse" was not something that God necessarily did to the serpent but what God simply declared "to be hateful or abhorrent" to Himself; something He "denounced." In agreement, look at the _fourth_ component seen in the six things which God hates, "a heart that devises wicked _imaginations_." Would this agree with the idea of the serpent _as_ the imagination who deceived Eve, the heart of Adam? Again, Jesus confirms our perspective, stating, "But those things which proceed out of the mouth _come from the heart_ , and they defile a man. For _out of the heart_ proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man" (Matt. 15:18-20; NKJV). Doesn't the imagination of our mind and heart eventually manifest in these actions?

Following this, we see what God declares as "an abhorrence" to Himself. The Lord God told him, "On your belly you shall go, and _you shall eat dust_ all the days of your life." Does the idea of "belly" correlate with our third component in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the "belly and thighs of brass (see Numbers 21:9)?" Does this point to the understanding that as man moves forward in his imagination, in the creative power of his mind and the "appetites" (belly) or desires of his human form, that he is subject to the suffering that his imagination produces as he reaps what he sows after the flesh? Again, doesn't the idea of "dust" point to the world of form out of which we were fashioned and thus signify that the "serpent's meat," the elements that "feed" our imagination would come out of this world of form? Our evidence certainly seems to suggest this.

Revelation 13:11 (KJV)

And I beheld **another beast coming up out of the earth** ; and he had **two horns like a lamb** , and he spake as a **dragon**.

Returning to our passage about the "beast" which comes up out of the earth, why do we see "two horns like a lamb?" Would this indicate the "good and evil" as seen in the "tree" of knowledge, yet isn't the "life" of the tree of life? Would this convey the idea of the natural man possessing the "knowledge" of the law apart from the Spirit of it (see Romans, Chapter 2)?

Our entity spoke "as a dragon." This is the same word used in Revelation 13:2, defined as a "fabulous kind of _serpent_ ," which brings us back to the idea of deception as seen in Genesis, Chapter 3, and confirmed by the following.

Revelation 13:14 (KJV)

And **deceiveth** them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

It is apparent that our entity deceives "them that dwell on the earth," this phrase indicating anyone whose love is absorbed in the world of form, the temporal things (Col. 3:2). Also remember that this beast tells them "that they should _make an image_ " to the first beast, the beast which rose up out of the sea. The word "image" indicates the use of the imagination. This is the same word used in I Corinthians 15:49, taken from the word which means "through the idea of _faintness_ as a copy; to _resemble_ ," translated twice in the King James as "be like." Doesn't it first require the imagination in order to "be like" something? Doesn't this correlate with the phrases "as in" in I Corinthians 15:22 and "as by" in Romans 5:12, 18, and 19?

If we look further into the book of the Revelation, we find that the beast which comes up out of the earth is later called a "false prophet."

Revelation 19:20 (NKJV)

Then the beast (of the sea) was captured, **and with him the false prophet** who worked signs in his presence, **by which he deceived** (agrees with Revelation, Chapter 13, and the beast of the earth)...

Remember, our word "serpent" means "a _snake_ (from its _hiss_ )" and is taken from the word which means, "to _prognosticate_ ," in other words, "to foretell (future events) according to present signs or indications; prophesy" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). Do we not often seek to foretell or guess the future by means of our imagination? Consider that James wrote, "Come now, you who say, ' _Today_ or _tomorrow_ we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit.'" Is this not a statement made from the imagination? So James follows with, "Whereas _you do not know_ what will happen tomorrow," and " _Instead_ you ought to say, 'If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.' But now you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil" (James 4:13-16; NKJV).

Now, if the term "beast" refers to the natural man in relation to the "beast" which rises out of the sea, doesn't it also apply to the "beast" which comes up out of the earth? If so, this suggests that the "beast" which comes up out of the earth represents this same "natural man" attempting to define the will of his Maker, or _prophesy_ , out of the imagination of the thoughts of his own heart (Gen. 6:5). No wonder Jesus denounced the religious leaders in Matthew, Chapter 23, calling them "serpents" and a "brood of vipers." Clearly their self-righteousness was a product of their own imaginations which they used to condemn Him and others.

Matthew 7:15-20 (NKJV)

" **Beware of false prophets** , who come to you in sheep's clothing, but **inwardly they are ravenous wolves**. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them.

In agreement with the principle of sowing and reaping, Jesus taught that we would know false prophets "by their _fruits_." Notice the phrase " _inwardly_ they are _ravenous wolves_ ," indicating to you and me the "beast" element that we are considering. Christ used the term "wolves" with "sheep," contrasting the destructive nature of those who would deceive with those who would sincerely seek the kingdom of God (John 10:1-16).

Hebrews 2:14-15 (NKJV)

Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, **that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil** , and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

Hebrews tells us that Christ came as "flesh and blood," _sharing in our humanity_ so that "through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil." In Proverbs, we read that death is "in the power of the tongue" (Prov. 18:21). So if the devil has the _power_ of death, and death is in the _power_ of the tongue, then it follows that the "devil" is not a separate entity outside of us, but the result of words expressed from a deceived heart that fails to love its neighbor as itself. Please consider.

Jeremiah 17:9 (KJV)  
The **heart** _is_ **deceitful above all** _things_ , and **desperately wicked** : who can **know** it?

Genesis 3:1 (KJV)  
Now **the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field** which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

In Jeremiah we read that "the heart _is deceitful above all things_ , and desperately wicked: who can know it?" In Genesis we read, "the serpent was _more subtil_ than any _beast_ of the field which the Lord God had made." It's interesting to note that the word "beast" is defined as, " _alive_ ; hence _raw_ (flesh); _fresh_ (plant, water, year), _strong_ ; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) _life_ (or living thing), whether literal or figurative." As we can see, the term "beast" is quite open-ended, not at all referring to animals, but instead to something "alive" or "raw" and "fresh" and "strong," of something pertaining to "life." Not suprisingly, it is taken from the Hebrew word which means "to live." Isn't the realm of thought not alive and strong and the very real essence of both our natural and spiritual essence within?

The word "subtil" is defined by the Strong's Concordance as " _cunning_ (usually in a bad sense)." When we consider all of the elements within us, it is the creative ability of our mind that is by far the most cunning and deceptive component that exists. How often does our imagination create conflict in regard to a certain situation? How often are we surprised by the outcome, realizing that we truly _didn't know_ what was going on in someone else's heart and mind? For this reason Jesus said, "Do not judge _according to appearance_ , but judge with _righteous_ judgment" (John 7:24; NKJV). "Righteous" judgment is always based on what is true, not on what we think we know.

So, being raw and honest, what is it that makes us believe that we really know someone? How often do we find ourselves taking sides against someone because we think we know how and what they feel within? Is this not a result of our own imagination? In the same way that we take from things around us and "create" something tangible and useable, don't we often take from thoughts and words around us to "create" a mental picture of what we believe to be true about something or someone? And when we discover the reality of the outcome, don't we often find that our own heart has deceived us because of our misperception?

Finally, in our passage from Jeremiah 17, the word "know" is the same Hebrew word used in Genesis 3:5 as "knowing" in reference to the "tree of knowledge of good and evil," and in Genesis 4:1 as "knew" in reference to Adam's relationship with Eve. This word is also open-ended and translated many different ways, indicating that "knowing" incorporates much more than we realize.

Revelation 12:9 (KJV)

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called **the Devil** , and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

So let's consider the definition of "devil." The Greek word means, "a _traducer_ ," taken from "to _traduce_." "Traduce" means, "To cause humiliation or disgrace to by making malicious and false statements" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). The word "Satan" means, "an _opponent_ ," taken from the word which means, "to _attack_ , (figurative) _accuse_." So here we find that the most prominent characteristic of the dragon, serpent, devil, and Satan is _accusation_.

The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines accuse as, "1) To charge with a shortcoming or error, and 2) to charge formally with a wrongdoing." Admittedly, there are times when we are guilty of wrongdoing in one form or another, but how often do we accuse when there is no reason to do so? And speaking plainly, how often do we project accusation through our erroneous ideas of heaven and hell and a "merit" system where, if we are not quite good enough, we lose the reward of heaven and instead go to hell?

In his letters, Paul wrote often to make it clear that, though having the law, we could not on our best day, ever consistently keep it. Human willpower cannot produce spirituality, the divine love needed for the well-being of our fellow man and all things on this planet. It is clearly a divine work of grace by our Creator. So when Paul wrote that the natural man cannot receive the things of the Spirit of God, this is precisely what he meant. The ego or self cannot be made righteous; he must be completely and irrevocably denied, even to the point of death (Matt. 16:24-28; Mark 8:34-38; Luke 9:23-27).

In the arena of grace, there is no merit system. This is why the natural man is labeled a "false prophet" in Revelation, Chapter 13, and propagates the system of "buy and sell" instead of giving and receiving (Rev. 13:17). The idea of buying and selling suggests a merit system where value is placed on what we have and do out of the mind of form (I John 2:16; NIV), based on the glory and praise of men and not God (Rom. 2:29). However, giving and receiving issues from unconditional love. This is why the law must become spiritual. When instituted by the natural man, it is a merit or reward system centered in fear, but "there is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love" (I John 4:18; NIV). Where there is love, there is grace, and where there is grace, there is no need for accusation. Instead, there is an understanding that everyone, without exception, is a part of this divine process in which we live, move, and have our being.

Accusation often springs from our imagination without any basis in reality. Proof of this is seen in every facet of our society; from the social, political and economic arenas, and especially from the religious institutions of this country. The most subtle form of accusation is made evident by the "labels" we place on our ideologies. We have Upper Class, Middle Class, and Lower Class; Liberals, Conservatives, Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. Then there is Christianity, which is divided into so many denominations that it is nearly impossible to discern the differences between them. Then there are non-Christian religions such as Islam, Buddhism, and so on. And though we may not openly accuse one another, just the fact that we have labeled our-"selves" succeeds to do so on its own, because it speaks plainly of what we identify with.

Accusation _is a characteristic of the ego or self_. Just as we are able to use the imagination to form an idea that concludes in manifestation, so too does it set up an idea of who we think we are in our mind and heart (hence the labels). Once established in us, we then judge others through this structure of belief that we have agreed with, not realizing that we often do so from a position of self-righteousness that is deceptive in its own right. Because our labels are attached to our identity of the self, formed via the imagination, we use them to clarify our independence or "separateness" from others, justifying our importance by accusing others for their differences in agreement.

So, is the devil or Satan really a fallen angel, a spiritual being outside of ourselves? After all, the Bible appears to present him as an individual who first speaks to Eve, then to God, then to others throughout the Bible. We have already mentioned that the "fallen angel" theory could easily be in error, due to our misconception and the strength of tradition. So, this being the case, then who or what is he? When considering this, we must always keep in mind how the Bible is often expressed in symbolic language, presented in allegories and types, and our story of Adam and Eve in Genesis is no exception.

So as I have stated before, the serpent, devil, or Satan is _the manifestation of man's creative ability out of the mind of form_. And because this ability finds its expression through words, it issues from the heart of man, manifests through the physical being of man, and carries a certain essence behind it which is its power. Behind what all of us say and do is the spirit or passion that moves us to do it. As a simple illustration, consider when two people argue. It manifests in both parties as anger, which often grows more extreme and even affects the faces of the people who are arguing. The angrier they get, the more "red" in the face they become, their countenance changing as the passion behind their words becomes more vindictive and accusatory. A certain "feeling" arises in anger, _usually in the stomach area_ , and regardless of who may be right, both parties experience an ugly sensation that leaves them mentally and physically affected for a certain amount of time afterward. And as all of us know, when left unchecked, anger can result in violence. If we take a moment to consider how this transpires, we will realize that the imagination usually plays the biggest part in the argument. Both parties "see" or imagine things that are not based in reality. Though some facts may be involved, they are misconstrued or exaggerated by the imagination.

Matthew 4:5-6 (NKJV)

Then **the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple** , and said to Him...

Matthew 4:8 (NKJV)

Again, **the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain** , and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.

Luke 4:5 (NKJV)

Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, **showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time**.

These passages are from the story of the temptation of Christ in the wilderness. Notice that "the devil took Him up into the holy city (Jerusalem), set Him on the pinnacle of the temple" and also "the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory." Luke writes that the devil "showed Him all the kingdoms of the world _in a moment of time_ " (Luke 4:5: NKJV). How could this be? Did Jesus actually fly up this mountain with a spiritual entity, a fallen angel? Or are we seeing a picture of the Lord's resistance to the imagination which is more than able to accomplish these same things within our own mind? (We should also note that the temptation of Christ involved the same three elements that are seen in the temptation of Eve and Adam; the lust of the flesh and eyes and the pride of life).

2 Corinthians 4:1-4 (NKJV)

Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, **whose minds the god of this age has blinded** , who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.

Notice in verse 4 the phrase, "the god of this age." This is accepted by most as referring to the devil or Satan. But to whom was the dominion of this world given? Was it not man, both male and female? Don't we read, "And God said, 'Let us make man in our image...and let _them_ have dominion,'" and "God blessed them, and God said unto _them_...have dominion" (Gen. 1:26-28; KJV)? Didn't the serpent say to Eve, "And ye shall be _as gods_ " (Gen. 3:5; KJV)? Was this ever changed? If so, when? And what does reality say to you and me? Who is showing dominion over this planet? Is it not humankind? And can we not attribute all that we see today as a result of the creative power of our thinking? Haven't we also stated that this creative ability has been used for both good and evil? So can we also see that this creative skill could just as easily be applied to the realm of religious belief as in any other area, blinding us to the reality of the truth as it is in Christ?

2 Timothy 4:1-4 (NKJV)

I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; **and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables**.

We live in a time of great skepticism and rightfully so. Much of what has been presented as truth has become almost meaningless, for as Paul makes evident, we have been "turned aside to fables." Fables are fairy tales, myths, _rooted in the imagination_. And it has succeeded in taking us away from the truth. We now spend so much time trying to convince others about our beliefs that we often fail to give them anything of true spiritual value. Because of our imagination and "own desires," we have managed to twist our versions of "truth" into a means to support our "labels" that we have placed on it. It is now more important to convince others that our religion and the doctrines we embrace must be accepted or we will fail to get to heaven, to an imagined place as we perceive it in our own minds because of the collective influence of that which we have joined ourselves to. I don't say this to condemn anyone's efforts, but let's be honest; If what I believe has nothing to do with my present reality, then what good is it? If what I believe does not benefit me in the present moment, then why believe anything at all? Despite the traditional views that we have heard for so long, Christ did not come into this world to simply get us to heaven, but to show us the way to truth and the truth that leads to life, to free us from the fear of death and the mind of form that stands in the way of our ability to love one another. What good is any truth if it is not meant for _this_ world, for _this_ present moment in which we exist? Being raw and honest, isn't our present reality our main area of concern? It's true that most religions entertain the idea of an "afterlife," but let's be frank, what about right now? Jesus said, "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32; NKJV). Free when? In the afterlife? No, free _now_. That which Jesus and the apostles taught was given to bring us freedom in this life, to set us free from the collective spirit and mind of the world that has so clearly influenced and deceived us, even in the realm of our own religious endeavors.

Let me continue to be frank. If what the Bible teaches is true, then there is nothing that you and I can do to obtain what we are told is "eternal life." No amount of good works will ever earn us the right to enter into the kingdom of God. If this is true, then who sets the standard by which we enter? Yet, this is the condemnation that we place on each other through our pride and differences of interpretation. We are "good" enough but others are not; we know how to "get into heaven" but others don't. We are destined for wonderful things at the end of our life but others are destined to be tortured forever at the hand of a loving (yet vengeful) God. Could it be any more confusing? If God is Creator and Master of all things visible and invisible, is it really true that most of us have no hope, and this because we have not heard someone's message, someone's interpretation of what they believe to be truth? Is God that helpless and hindered by our human intervention?

And what about other religions such as Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism and others? Are they simply out of luck since they don't adhere to Christian belief (or us to theirs)? Is God so limited as to be confined to one religion, restricted by the boundaries that we have placed? Are we really that arrogant to think so? Did you know that there are approximately 41,000 "Christian" religions? So, just among Christianity, which one is right? How would we know?

If truth is characteristic of our Creator, shouldn't it transcend any and all man-made limitations? Shouldn't it be applicable, not to just a few, but to everyone? If the Bible is truly the Word of God as we have been told, then wouldn't it be relevant to all humankind and in every generation?

When properly understood, I believe the Bible contains truth that relates to everyone regardless of what religion they embrace and sowing and reaping is just one indication of this. Truth is not merely a set of doctrines, rules and restrictions; rather it is a dynamic force working within and around us at all times. The Bible, along with many other writings, are simply _pointers_ to these vibrant principles. The differences between religions are simply a product of man's imagination and interpretation. To put it simply, when the natural man fails to understand, he uses his imagination to try and perceive it and convince himself that he does. Because of this, we have brought untold suffering to each other because what comes out of our natural being is always tainted by the corruption of self-righteousness. Regardless of what we may confess outwardly, inwardly we think of ourselves as just a little better, a little more qualified than our fellow man. Thus, out of our imagination, we create the boundaries that really don't exist when truth becomes evident. As Romans 3:29 makes plain, God is "God of the Jews" _and_ "God of the Gentiles" (nations). Our mistake is failing to understand how that all our Creator has determined relates to everything and everyone (Rom. 11:15). Our heavenly Father leaves no one out.

Finally, if it is true then that none of us can ever do enough good to be reconciled to our Father, then the opposite would also be true. There is no one who can ever do enough evil not to be. I realize how bold a statement this is, but in light of the suffering on this planet that we have seen through every generation due to our imagined perceptions, how can the Father reject any of his children due to our ignorance of the spiritual realities to which He holds the key? He is the instigator of this process and He alone knows every minute detail of its working.

Genesis 3:1 (KJV)

Now the **serpent** was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made.

As we looked at before, the Hebrew definition of "serpent" means "a _snake_ (from its _hiss_ )," but the word it is taken from is quite revealing. This word is _nāhash_ and is defined as "a primitive root; properly to _hiss_ , i.e. _whisper_ a (magic) spell; generally to _prognosticate_." We have found that the definition for "prognosticate" from the The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) reads, "to foretell (future events) according to present signs or indications; prophesy." Prophecy in the Bible most often relates to future events and as such, requires the imagination (at least by us) as the tool by which it is done. This confirms our understanding that imagination is not good or evil until it is used for one or the other. The idea of "whisper a magic spell" is also interesting. After all, the power of our imagination is quite "magical" when you think about it. You can travel to someplace exotic, be someone that you are not, or any number of things, all with the power of the imagination. Consider the following from the book, The Higher Will, by Wayne Roberts (bolding mine).

Human consciousness was made possible because of the powerful tool called the imagination. In order to be conscious and aware we require an imagination. To be human requires an imagination. **This function allows us to create internal thoughts, beliefs, and worlds that are ideal, safe, and allow us to cope with our complicated existence**. The result of thoughts coming from an unsurrendered imagination is a new delusion. This also reinforces the individual, the self. **The imagination is a living being within a living being. It is an imaginary existence inside of a form-based life form and its offspring may result in suffering**. This is the state of being for most people on the planet. It was the state of being for the entire history of semi-conscious humans. Humans represent only a small mark on the timeline of organic life on Earth. We are new in form, yet very old.

Our imagination works within to find its manifestation without. The physical aspect of our imagination is readily seen in all that man has accomplished. Roberts suggests that "the imagination is _a living being within a living being_. It is an imaginary existence inside of a form-based life form and its offspring may result in suffering." This is an excellent description and aligns itself with the idea that the devil is presented as a separate "being" in the Bible.

Before I close this chapter, let's look at some passages found in the book of Numbers.

Numbers 21:4-9 (NKJV)

Then they journeyed from Mount Hor by the way of the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; and the soul of the people became very discouraged on the way. And the people spoke against God and against Moses: "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our soul loathes this worthless bread." So the Lord sent **fiery serpents** among the people, and they bit the people; and many of the people of Israel died. Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, "We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you; pray to the Lord that He take away the serpents from us." So Moses prayed for the people. Then the Lord said to Moses, "Make **a fiery serpent** , and set it on a pole; and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live." So Moses made a bronze serpent (a serpent of brass; KJV), and put it on a pole; and so it was, if a serpent had bitten anyone, when he looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.

This story concerns Moses and Israel after their exodus from Egypt. As we can see, the people of Israel became "very discouraged on the way" and "spoke against God and Moses." As a result, "the Lord sent _fiery serpents_ among the people." This word, "serpents" is the same word used in Genesis, however, verse 8 shows us something different in its definition. The phrase "a fiery serpent" in verse 8 is the word _śārāp_ and is defined by the Strong's Concordance as " _burning_ , i.e. (figurative) _poisonous_ (serpent); specifically a _saraph_ or symbolic creature (from their copper color)." (Compare the idea of "poisonous" with James 3:8). This "fiery serpent" was to be set on a pole "and it shall be that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, shall live."

John 3:14-15 (NKJV)

And **as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness** , even so must **the Son of Man be**

**lifted up** , that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

In contrast with the episode in the wilderness, Jesus told Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews that "as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up." No doubt, the placing of the serpent on the pole is a symbolic picture of Christ on the cross, of His sacrifice for humankind as recorded in all four gospels. But what did Jesus mean by what He said to Nicodemus?

In order to understand, we must first consider the phrase, "Son of Man." In the gospels, Christ is often referred to in this fashion. And why is this? Because it points to His _humanity_. He was, like the rest of His people, _subject to the law_ (Gal. 4:4-5). I remind you that Jesus said, "Do not think that _I came to destroy the Law_ or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy _but to fulfill_ " (Matt. 5:17; NKJV).

The phrase "lifted up" in John 3:14-15, is defined as, "to _elevate_ (literal or figurative)." This shows that the attributes of the law _must be elevated_ from the corruption of our natural being to the incorruption of our spiritual being; _the law must become spiritual_ (Rom. 7:14). And how is this accomplished? By the suffering of self as indicated by the cross of Christ and the work of sowing and reaping.

So why did the Lord send serpents among the people? Because they spoke against Him and Moses, indicative of the Old Covenant and the law which proceeds from it (Exod. 31:18). And remember, "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor (James 4:12; NKJV)?" In the hands of our natural man, we cannot use the law as a means to justify our religious positions and condemn others. It was given by God, the "one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy." Only He knows the heart and has the right to judge accordingly.

Revelation 12:10 (NKJV)

Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, "Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for **the accuser of our brethren** , who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.

In this passage, the phrase " _accuser_ of our brethren" is in reference to the serpent, Devil, and Satan in verse 9 of this same chapter, so if we wish to be specific, the "serpent" of Genesis, called the "dragon," the "devil," and "Satan" represents the law in the hands of our natural man which we use as a means to _accuse_ one another. Accusation is one reason why there is so much division in the ranks of religion.

Jeremiah 5:26-31 (NKJV)

'For among My people are found wicked men; they lie in wait as one who sets snares; they set a trap; they catch men. As a cage is full of birds, so their houses are full of deceit. **Therefore they have become great and grown rich.** They have grown fat, they are sleek; yes, they surpass the deeds of the wicked; they do not plead the cause, the cause of the fatherless; yet they prosper, and the right of the needy they do not defend. Shall I not punish them for these things?' says the Lord. 'Shall I not avenge myself on such a nation as this?' "An astonishing and horrible thing has been committed in the land: **The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own power; and my people love to have it so**. But what will you do in the end?

Finally, in Numbers 21:9, the King James Version of scripture reads, "a serpent of brass." Does this relate to the "belly and thighs of brass" as seen in Nebuchadnezzar's dream? As we know, brass is symbolic of _judgment_ , confirmed by these same passages. And what is the judgment through which we pass? Is it not the principle of sowing and reaping as this study indicates? The idea of a "fiery" or "burning" serpent leads us to some symbolism found in the book of Revelation which we will discuss in our next chapter.

### CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The Mark of the Beast

Revelation 13:16-18 (NKJV)

He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, **to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads** , and that no one may **buy or sell** except one who has the **mark** or **the name of the beast** , or **the number of his name**. Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is **666**.

These passages concern the "beast coming up out of the earth," which we touched on briefly in our chapter on the serpent. We read that he has "two horns like a lamb, and spoke like a dragon" (Rev. 13:11; NKJV). Here the word "beast" means "a _dangerous animal_ " and refers to the destructive nature of the natural man, the "first man" who "is of the earth, earthy" (I Cor. 15:45; KJV). We are told that "he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name." We then read, "Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate (count; KJV) the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666." The "mark" and "number" are two of the most mysterious symbolisms to be found in the Bible.

As we know, the number _six_ represents man's resistance to God's principles, his lawlessness and _the manifestation of sin_. To see _three_ of them reveals the "divine completeness" (Bullinger) of God's "work" (3) of sowing and reaping in the midst of man's "labor" (3 + 3 = 6). We can also view our three sixes as _eighteen_ , the number that stands for _bondage_ , which Paul called "the _bondage_ of corruption," of reaping corruption when we sow to the flesh.

Notice too that there are _three_ classifications with _six_ elements which signify "all" or everyone: 1) Small and great, 2) Rich and poor, 3) Free and slave. As this study shows, everyone begins their journey in this world as a natural being; it is a matter of divine design.

There are also _three_ classifications given as: 1) The _mark_ , 2) The _name of the beast_ , and 3) The _number of his name_. We are then told that his "number" is "the number of a man." What man? Not an individual as many suppose, but "the first _man_ Adam" (I Cor. 15:45; KJV) _who represents the natural being in everyone_ , and "does not receive the things of the Spirit of God" (I Cor. 2:14; NKJV). Is it simply coincidence that our passages are dominated by the number _three_?

If we take time to analyze the passages on the beast coming up out of the earth, we will find that the word "he" and "him" are misleading. In some places, the "he" or "him" has been inserted by the translators, but in other passages, it is the word _autos_ which is defined as, "from the particle _au_ [perhaps akin to the base of G109 (aer) through the idea of a _baffling_ wind] (backward); the reflexive pronoun _self_ , used (alone or in the compound G1438 (heautou)) of the third person, and (with the properly personal pronoun) of the other persons." For this reason, the interlinear version defines this beast as an "it," not a he or she, male or female. As our definition shows, the "he" or "him" may even be better defined as the "self."

It is apparent that "no one may buy or sell" unless they have the " _mark_ , or the _name of the beast_ , or the _number of his (its) name_." The word "mark" is _charagma_ , defined as, "a _scratch_ or _etching_ , i.e. _stamp_ (as a _badge_ of servitude), or _sculptured_ figure (statue)." It is used eight times in the book of the Revelation and every time in reference to the beast. Consider how the definition relates to the idea of a "sculptured figure" or "statue." Would this not reinforce the idea of imagination? Also consider the word "servitude," defined by The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) as, "A state of subjection to an owner or master," and "lack of personal freedom, as to act as one chooses." I believe this shows that the "mark" is something which restricts us even when we operate out of free will, that we are subject to something or someone else regardless of whether we realize it or not. This reinforces the meaning of the following passages.

Romans 8:20-21 (NKJV)

For **the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope** ; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

As we have stated many times in this study, all that we have considered has been instituted by our Creator. As Paul makes clear, we, "the creation," were "subjected to futility, not willingly." In other words, God created this process and placed us within it. We were not given a choice for it is completely divine in its origin. We cannot change or improve on what God has set in place.

Revelation 13:18 tells us that this "mark" is "the number of a man" which we've determined to be the "natural man." With this in mind, please consider the following.

2 Thessalonians 2:1-4 (NKJV)

Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and **the man of sin** is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

If the spiritual meaning of _six_ is _the manifestation of sin_ , and _three_ is the number defining the "work" of a seed, then _three sixes_ suggest humankind _sowing_ from the self in conflict with the principles of God's kingdom and _reaping_ the sin or suffering that he produces because of it. These three sixes also identify our "man of sin" in II Thessalonians. Again, this is not an _individual_ , but points to the _collective nature_ of the "first man Adam" (I Cor. 15:45) or natural being in everyone. Paul also calls this man of sin "the _son_ of perdition," signifying how we _produce the self from the self_. Our word "perdition" means " _ruin_ or _loss_ ," agreeing with the word "corruption" used in Galatians 6:8 which means, " _decay_ , i.e. _ruin_."

If the natural man will not receive the things of the Spirit of God, then he "opposes" them. If he opposes them, then he often " _exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped_ , so that he sits _as God_ in the temple of God, _showing himself that he is God_ " (See Matt. 23:12).

1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (NKJV)

Do you not know that **you are the temple of God** and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, **which temple you are**.

As we have learned, Moses was given instructions for the Tabernacle where the "temple of God" was placed under a tent. Later, this Tabernacle was replaced by the Temple of Solomon (I Kings, Chapter 6). The spiritual fulfillment is seen in our passages above. We "are the temple of God" and "the Spirit of God" dwells in us, so when Paul wrote "he sits as God in the temple of God," we are seeing that when the natural man has dominion within, then he defiles this "temple" which we are. Further confirmation is found in II Corinthians, Chapter 5, where Paul speaks of "our earthly house, this _tent_ ," contrasting the Tabernacle of Moses with the soul or self.

Matthew 15:7-11 (NKJV)

Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: 'These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. And in vain they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' "When He had called the multitude to Himself, He said to them, **"Hear and understand: Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man."**

In parallel with our understanding of sowing, what defiles the temple "comes out of the mouth." Look once more at our passages from Revelation, Chapter 13.

Revelation 13:16-18 (NKJV)

He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads, and **that no one may buy or sell** except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. Here is wisdom. Let him who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man: His number is 666.

1 John 2:16 (NIV)

For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and **the boasting of what he has and does** —comes not from the Father but from the world.

"No one may buy or sell," writes John. So what does this really mean? We can easily relate this to the New International Version of our passage in I John 2:16 and the phrase, "the boasting of what he," the "sinful" or natural man, "has (buying or reaping) and does (selling or sowing)." Remember, the key element in this passage is "boasting," called "pride" in the King James Version. This word is defined by the Strong's Concordance as, " _braggadocio_ , i.e. (by implication) _self-confidence_ ," and is taken from the word which means, "( _vagrancy_ ); _braggart_." As we know, the natural man's having and doing is motivated by pride and this despite the fact that it returns corruption.

The world of form is structured on the principle of buying and selling, in other words, on a "value" or "merit system" established by the boasting of what we have and do, the arrogance and selfishness of our natural frame of mind. John emphasizes this understanding when he sums up "all that is in the world" within the _three_ parameters seen in I John 2:16.

How is it that anything has value? And who is responsible for this value that is placed on things? Why are many things more expensive than others even though they are basically the same? As any one of us can attest, our desire for the things we need and want is dependent upon whether we can afford them. Whether we are talking about a home, clothes or food, or luxury items such as a television, boat, or RV, our desire to have them must be tempered by the value which has been placed on them and whether we are willing or able to pay it. Have you ever wondered how it is that most of us in this country have far more than what we need and yet there are so many who have very little or nothing at all? If we will take a raw and honest look at the abundance in this country, we will realize that the scarcity in many people's lives is due to the fact that we have placed far too much value on even our needs. There is no doubt that the monetary system of this world is steeped in greed and corruption.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NKJV)

Now **godliness with contentment** is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. **For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil** , for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Psalms 23:1 (KJV)

The LORD is my shepherd; **I shall not want**.

Tradition has long painted a picture of the Lord as a miraculous being that we petition for what we want. But in light of what we have considered, wouldn't it make more sense that instead of giving us everything we ask for, He takes away the longing for it? Wouldn't this produce a genuine feeling of contentment that is permanent in nature? After all, how many times have we acquired something we wanted only to find that after the "new" wore off, we wanted something better or bigger or different? And let's be honest – what I just described is an endless loop which all of us have experienced. So I emphasize, wouldn't it be better to have contentment, so much so that we don't want at all? Paul said, " _Having food and clothing_ , with these we shall be _content_." Can we really reach this place in our mind and heart that we are satisfied with just the necessities?

Don't get me wrong. I am not condemning the fact that we live in a form-based world and that the structure of our existence is based upon the principle of having and doing. But when do we finally have enough? When have we finally experienced contentment?

Isn't it true that our present society champions the idea of buying and selling? Are we not a "consumer" society? But wouldn't it be wiser to champion the idea of contentment, of being thankful for what we have and not present the idea to push for so much more? You see, my friend, there is a reason why reality shows that promote the idea of fame and wealth for the "common man" are so popular. They present to us the chance that we might be the one to attain great fame and fortune. And yet, behind this enticing presentation, we will be more apt to find that as Paul said, "Those that desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition." How much more suffering do we need to see before we truly realize that money really can't buy happiness? But as our passages indicate, it is not money that is the problem; it is our longing for more.

Luke 12:15-31 (NKJV)

And He said to them, " **Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses**." Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, 'What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?' So he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry." 'But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." Then He said to His disciples, "Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith? And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.

When we consider what Jesus presented, it brings to light that buying and selling is a mindset, a way of thinking that proceeds out of our longing for those things in the world of form, what Christ called "covetousness." This wanting creates an inner conflict that is then reflected outwardly in a constant form of anxiety and discontent.

Never in man's history has there been so much "noise" around "wanting," around buying and selling, having and doing, of a value system that creates so much separation between us. Because of radio, television, cell phones, internet, social media and a host of other avenues, there is an undercurrent of wanting that is affecting our lives in ways never seen before. This flood of information comes at us from all sides and at all times. There are now hundreds of television and radio channels, web sites, blogs, social media, billboards and magazines; all of them presenting information that influences us in ways we don't stop to consider, each one motivating us to "have" and to "do" that which they deem as important to our personal way of life. No doubt, this is buying and selling on a grand scale.

Mark 11:15-17 (NKJV)

So they came to Jerusalem. Then Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who **bought and sold in the temple** , and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. And He would not allow anyone to carry wares through the temple. Then He taught, saying to them, "Is it not written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations'? But you have made it a 'den of thieves.' "

If we are the true "temple of God," then our story in Mark, Chapter 11, bears consideration. Note how "Jesus went into the temple and began to _drive out those who bought and sold_ in the temple." Is there a spiritual lesson here? I believe so.

Hebrews 3:6 (NIV)

But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. **And we are his house** , if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.

1 Corinthians 3:9 (NKJV)

For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, **you are God's building**.

We are God's "house," "God's building," the true "house of prayer." To say it plainly, when the pride of the natural man and the longing of our flesh and eyes enters into the realm of faith, we make this "temple" a "den of thieves" (Prov. 16:5). Remember, this is reflected in Cain's offering to God, the "fruit of the ground" which symbolizes "the works of the flesh" as seen in Galatians, Chapter 5, verses 19 through 21. Prayer should never be about our fleshly cravings or wants. Furthermore, the fact that Jesus drove out those who _bought_ and _sold_ in the temple shows us that the kingdom of God is diametrically opposed to this frame of mind (Rev. 17:14). Yet Jesus did not drive them out with vindictiveness, but out of love. He knows better than we do the destructive path that our fleshly desires take us.

Matthew 7:12 (NKJV)

Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for **this is the Law and the Prophets**.

Luke 6:38 (NKJV)

**Give, and it will be given to you** : good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."

Matthew 10:8 (KJV)

... freely ye have received, **freely give**.

Buying and selling are linked to the natural man, confirmed by our passage in I John 2:16. Our desire to have and do is driven by intense self-interest, by our affection for this human form and all of the attachments that we believe are necessary for its well-being, and the deeper we are entrenched in this frame of mind, the more suffering it produces, not only for ourselves, but for others as well.

Jesus taught, "Give, and it will be given to you" and told us, "For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you." This too is sowing and reaping, but reflects the other side of our principle in Galatians 6:8, "but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life." In the realm of form, when we buy and sell, there is an expectation and obligation, but in the kingdom of God, when you give and receive, there is no expectation or obligation because our "life does not consist in the abundance of the things" we possess. When we buy and sell, we receive temporary satisfaction, but when we give and receive, we find contentment. When we buy and sell, there is an obvious want for the self and an expectation of reciprocation, but when we give and receive, there is a wanting what our Father wants (Matt. 6:10), which is simply the well-being of all things.

This brings us back to what I believe is one of the most important things that we should consider in all of this and that is the skepticism of many's view of religion. But are they skeptical of truth or just our version of it? No doubt, one of the most damaging perspectives that is presented to others is the idea of God's rejection of those who don't believe from those who do. Such doctrines as "going to hell" and "eternal torment" have been taught for as long as any of us can remember. On one side, we teach that God is love and speak of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, but on the other we teach that if we reject this, then this God of love will torment and punish us, not for a while, _but for eternity_. Can we not see the _arrogance_ in this, the obvious separation that is created by our own misconceptions and rejection of each other? Who can truly say that we know the mind of Christ and the eternal purpose of our Creator? Which one of us can say that we have the right to set the standard by which God accepts or rejects anyone? Friend, we cannot earn our way into the kingdom of God; it cannot be bought and sold. This is a "value" system based on our own merits and we are told that the " _gift_ of God is eternal life" (Rom. 6:23; KJV). When Peter was offered money for the power and ability to impart the Holy Spirit, Peter replied, "Your money perish with you, because you thought that _the gift of God_ could be purchased with money" (Acts 8:20; NKJV). Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to _give_ you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32; KJV). You see, we cannot sell what God gives and what God gives cannot be bought.

Isn't it true that on one hand, many do all they can to reach others, yet on the other condemn them to some horrible form of punishment when they refuse to accept what they have presented. "Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be," James wrote (James 3:10; NIV). I don't believe God's divine love is like this. He does not fall in and out of love for His creation. It is the same despite our behavior, our misconceptions, and our failures. Since He made us, He knows far better than we do how weak and fragile we truly are.

The bottom line is none of us are qualified to accept or reject, and the arrogance of the natural man is evident when we present ourselves in this fashion. Self loves to see itself as "god in the temple of God" (II Thess. 2:4; NKJV) as the imagination projects an image of self-righteousness and stands in direct opposition to the one he claims to serve. No wonder so many are skeptical.

Matthew 23:15 (NIV)

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, **you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are**.

To "travel over land and sea" requires a great amount of money and effort, does it not? Are we seeing this same thing today? And once someone has been "converted," what is it that we have converted them to; what have we convinced them to accept and believe? This brings us back to our passages in Revelation, Chapter 13.

Revelation 13:11-14 (NKJV)

Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth, and he had two horns like a lamb and **spoke like a dragon**. And he exercises all the authority of the first beast in his presence, and causes the earth and those who dwell in it to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men. **And he deceives**...

Revelation 16:13 (NKJV)

And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs coming out of the mouth of the dragon, out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of **the false prophet**.

When we enter into the 12th Chapter of Revelation, we are presented with a "great, fiery red dragon" (Rev. 12:3; NKJV). When we step into the 13th Chapter of Revelation, we then see "a beast rising up out of the sea" (Rev. 13:1; NKJV). Finally, we arrive at our passage in Revelation 13:11, "another beast coming up out of the earth." Now, notice how Revelation 16:13 gives us these same three entities as "the dragon," the "beast," and the "false prophet." In other words, the "beast coming up out of the earth" is now called "the false prophet." Further confirmation is found in the following passage.

Revelation 19:20 (KJV)

And the beast was taken **, and with him the false prophet** that wrought miracles before him, **with which he deceived** them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. **These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone**.

This passage agrees with Revelation, Chapter 13, verses 13 and 14, does it not? And what do we mean by "false prophet?" Consider the definition of this word from the Strong's Concordance. It reads, "a _spurious prophet_ , i.e. _pretended foreteller_ or religious _impostor_." Isn't it true that when we judge and condemn someone to eternal torment because they won't "believe," that we are putting ourselves in the place of God, predicting the spiritual outcome of the one we condemn? What else but our imagined self-righteousness would be responsible for this act?

Our word "spurious" in the Strong's definition bears consideration. The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines this word as, "1) Lacking authenticity or validity in essence or origin; not genuine; false, 2) Of illegitimate birth, and, 3) Botany; Similar in appearance but unlike in structure or function. Used of plant parts." All three of these definitions help our understanding. Our definitions reinforce the idea that this beast of the earth "had two horns _like_ a lamb" but " _spoke_ like a dragon." The phrase "like a lamb" suggests "similar in appearance," but the phrase "spoke like a dragon" reveals that it is "unlike in structure or function."

1 John 2:18 (KJV)

Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are **there many antichrists** ; whereby we know that it is the last time.

1 John 4:1-6 (KJV)

Beloved, **believe not every spirit** , but **try the spirits** whether they are of God: because **many false prophets** are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. **They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them**. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we **the spirit of truth** , and **the spirit of error**.

The number 666 is linked to the idea of "antichrist," another doctrine that is well known in the realm of Christendom. It is often presented as an individual who will arise sometime in the future to introduce a new world order that will stand in opposition to God's people. We have already challenged this perception, describing our "man of sin" as the soul or self which resides in all of us.

As we know, the word "Christ" means " _anointed_ " and refers to the Spirit of truth that gives life to His Word (John 16:13). The word "anti" means " _opposite_ , i.e. _instead_ or _because_ of." So to put it simply, "antichrist" means "not anointed," that the Spirit of truth is not in it. For this reason, John follows his statement of "many false prophets" with "Hereby know ye _the Spirit of God_." Furthermore, John starts his discussion about antichrist with "Beloved, believe not every _spirit_ , but try (test) the _spirits_ whether they are of God." So antichrist is not an individual, but a spirit. One person, one spirit; many persons, one "spirit of antichrist." In other words, antichrist is both _personal_ and _collective_ ; an _individual_ and _a body of individuals_. Just as Christ is "one body" and "many members," so too antichrist (I Cor. 12:12). So would it be appropriate to say that the "natural body" is the body of antichrist while the "spiritual body" is the body of Christ? Since the natural man struggles with and opposes the principles of God's kingdom, would he not be antichrist when he imagines himself as one who embraces the truth and feels qualified to accept or reject others? And how do we know the spirit of antichrist? "They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them." Doesn't this agree with John's assessment of "all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" which is clearly "not of the Father, but is of the world" (I John 2:16; KJV)? Wouldn't the spirit of antichrist be laced with the same pride and attitude of self-righteousness that we have considered? Would it not be connected to and identify with the mind of form? Isn't the world at large struggling with this same self-righteousness that permeates all societies in every culture? Isn't self-righteousness exhibited by our division of each other through our differences in belief?

Matthew 24:1-5 (NKJV)

Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down." Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?" And Jesus answered and said to them: **"Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many.**

Notice verse 3 in these passages where the Lord's disciples asked Him three questions. Notice the first thing He says. "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ (anointed; Spirit and Word of truth),' and will deceive many." This agrees with the presentation of the "two horns like a lamb." "Like a lamb" clearly suggests religious influence while the "two horns" suggests knowledge of good and evil, the knowledge of the law. However, when the essence of the Spirit of truth is not present, then like the Pharisees of Jesus' time, it is used as a means to condemn and separate, and we fail to experience the love of God that makes the law spiritual (Rom. 7:14; KJV).

When we look further at "the beast coming up out of the earth," we see that this entity deceives (confirming our presentation as a false prophet) and "causes all" to "receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads" (Rev. 13:16: NKJV). In other words, this "mark," this "name" and this "number" all relate to our religious belief. And it doesn't state that this entity gives the mark, it says that he "causes all" to "receive" it. In other words, it is a voluntary act on our part due to deception. Such is the power of the imagination that deludes us into thinking that because we embrace a certain doctrine or faith, we are accepted while all others outside of it are rejected. The greatest deceiver is not outward, but what exists within, our own imagination that arises out of the thoughts of our own heart. No wonder Jeremiah stated, "The _heart is deceitful above all things_ , and desperately wicked; who can know it" (Jer. 17:9; NKJV)? John wrote that he beheld this "beast coming up out of the earth," showing how the self (beast) loves to exalt itself (coming up) in what it believes to be a true understanding (earth/heart).

I cannot help but believe that we have been stymied by the traditional boundaries of our religious perceptions and fail to realize that we have lost touch with the pure essence of its original presentation. The story of Christ on the cross is a picture of the ultimate self-sacrifice that dwells within the spiritual nature of our being but has been covered up by the "cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful thinking" (Eph. 4:14; NIV). While the Lord's death on the tree reflects the glory of His sacrificial nature, it also presents the natural man's resistance and response to it. Jesus "came unto His own, and his own received him not" (John 1:11; KJV). Though it was the Roman government that crucified the Lord, it was His own people that sat "in Moses' seat" (Matt. 23:1; NKJV), who embraced the law and compelled the Romans to do it. Yet even in this, God's will was evident. Christ knew long before He was crucified, that He would lay down His physical life (Matt. 17:9; 22-23).

Colossians 2:13-14 (NIV)

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. **He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.**

When self-sacrifice is apparent, then all of the boundaries and regulations as imposed by a "written code" dissolve in their fulfillment through love. No wonder our natural man sees this as foolish and yet our spiritual man struggles to bring this to the surface of our being. "Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law" (Rom. 13:10; NIV). When we walk in the state of self-sacrifice, there are no laws or regulations necessary.

The Bible is clear in showing that we are not reconciled to our Maker through our own personal merit. If this is true, then it must also be true that through His sacrifice, Christ accomplished what was needed for us to be reconciled (Rom. 5:10; II Cor. 5:18; Col. 1:21). Our Father was fully and completely satisfied with this act; we cannot add to it nor take from it. It was perfect in its scope and brought forgiveness for everyone regardless of their present state of being. To believe anything else is to diminish His sacrifice and imply that it was not good enough. But how could it not be?

Truth doesn't change when we don't believe it. It is still the truth. However, when we don't believe it, we remove ourselves from the benefits that it offers. God's truth is always for our well-being and the principle of self-sacrifice is certainly no exception. This is why Paul wrote, "And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles (nations) by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, _'In you all the nations shall be blessed_.' So then those who are of faith _are blessed_ with believing Abraham" (Gal. 3:8-9; see also Gen. 12:3; 18:18; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14). On the other hand, deception is the misrepresentation of the truth which turns it into a lie. When we add or take from it, it is no longer truth (Rev. 22:18-19). So when we teach that our spiritual destiny is dependent upon a value/merit system, we destroy the grace of God that exists within the dynamic principle of sowing and reaping. Furthermore, we remove God from the process and place ourselves above him as the ones who either accept or reject according to our own standards (Luke 11:52).

Revelation 13:14 (NKJV)

And **he deceives** those who dwell on the earth...

Our word "deceives" in reference to the beast of the earth is _planaō_ and is defined as "to (properly _cause_ to) _roam_ (from safety, truth, or virtue)." Doesn't this agree with the fact that Cain was a " _fugitive_ and _vagabond_ in the earth" (Gen. 4:14; KJV)?

Romans 6:23 (NKJV)

For **the wages of sin is death** , but **the gift of God is eternal life** in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The principle of buying and selling has its place in the form-based world, but in light of the spiritual kingdom and the nature of Christ, it has no place at all. _The kingdom of God is a spiritual state of giving and receiving_. No wonder "Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who _bought_ and _sold_ in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves" (Mark 11:15; NKJV). This act reflects the warfare within as the Spirit of truth, of giving and receiving, contends with the "covetousness" of our natural man which seeks to keep control of our mind and heart.

Giving and receiving is never about control nor does it demand or expect it. Though our Source is truly God of all that He has made, He does not seek our loyalty and commitment through fear or control. Because God _is_ love, He allows us to make our own choices, and through the loving discipline of sowing and reaping arrive at a place where we "let there be light" (Gen. 1:3; NKJV); we surrender willingly to His divine will, knowing full well that it is truly a state of love, grace, and peace. For this reason, mankind has been moving forward in this process, witnessing the evidence of his own choices on each generation.

Revelation 13:16 (NKJV)

He causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, **to receive a mark on their right hand or on their foreheads**...

The Greek definition for "right hand" in this passage is _dexios_ and means, "the _right_ side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually _takes_ )." It is taken from the word _dechomai_ which means "to _receive_ (in various applications, literal or figurative)." This presents the idea that the "false prophet" involves the emotional currents of our own hearts that convinces us to accept (or reject) anything presented to our current way of thinking. No wonder Paul wrote, "But I fear, lest somehow, _as the serpent deceived Eve_ by his craftiness, so _your minds may be corrupted_ from the simplicity that is in Christ" (II Cor. 11:3; NKJV), and again, "For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but _the woman being deceived_ , fell into transgression" (I Tim. 2:14; NKJV). In light of our presentation of the "head of gold" and the "breast and arms of silver," we see that deception finds its way in through our _heart_ or _desire_ and once it takes root, leads to the corruption of the mind. Our imagination is very experienced in convincing us to seek instant gratification while at the same time deceiving us into ignoring the long-term effects or suffering that follows.

As we can see, the "mark" is not exclusive to the "right hand" or feminine aspect of our being. It can also begin with the "forehead," which the Strong's Concordance defines as, "the _forehead_ (as _opposite_ the _countenance_ )." This correlates with the "head of gold" and signifies the male side.

In the story of Cain and Abel, we have a contrast between the natural man and the spiritual man. As we have seen, Cain represents the "firstborn child" of our mind and heart which is set on form. On the other hand, Abel represents the "firstborn child" of spirit set on the formless. Both bring an "offering" before God, but Cain's is rejected while Abel's is not. Furthermore, this rejection extends to the one giving the offering. Why? Because the offering reflects what lies within the mind and heart. God "did not respect Cain" or "his offering." Why? Because the natural man cannot please God; his mind is "enmity against God" (Rom. 8:7; KJV); he is in resistance to the nature of His Creator. For this reason we see "that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering to the Lord" (Gen. 4:3; KJV), which we have defined as the characteristics of the natural man, the "works of the flesh" which Paul clearly stipulates in Galatians 5:19-21. No wonder Paul then wrote, "that they which do such things _shall not inherit_ the kingdom of God" and then follows with, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love" (Gal. 5:22; KJV). You see, my friend, _an inheritance is given_ , not bought, and _must be received_ , not paid for. God stands in wait while our resistance to this inheritance remains. Life is _received_. It is the "gift of God" (Rom. 6:23; KJV).

It is clear that the natural man is first to take over our present state of being, both in scripture and in reality, as we see the suffering and conflict which we experience inwardly and outwardly. But here is a mystery; our suffering becomes the means by which we obtain spiritual enlightenment. As we move through this state of being called death, through the darkness of this world of form into which we were placed, we can awaken to find that eternal life is freely given if we will receive it. If we truly wish to love, no one or nothing can prevent us from doing so. Others may well be able to take away our outward, physical choices, but they cannot prevent us from choosing inwardly to love, forgive, and walk in compassion. This is the freedom which truth brings (John 8:32) and which can be experienced at any moment.

1 John 4:19-21 (NKJV)

We love Him because He first loved us. If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? **And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.**

Genesis 4:5-7 (KJV)

But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? And why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? And if thou doest not well (5), sin (6) lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Cain's anger toward God, who He could not see, found its "expression" toward Abel, who he could see (I John 4:20). And so goes our conflict within. Our inward conflict is brought outward as we seek to find a source to blame when the natural man and what he offers to God is rejected. For this reason, Adam blamed Eve (Gen. 3:12) and Cain blamed Abel. As we have found, this is the most prominent characteristic of the natural man; accusation. How quickly our imagination seeks to "create" reasons and justifications for accusation, and all of us, without exception, have fallen victim to this time and again. When the "man of sin" "sits as God in the temple of God" (II Thess. 2:4; NKJV), he must use accusation as the means to justify his position. Accusation is a by-product of self-righteousness and was addressed by the Lord in Matthew, Chapter 23. Just as Cain rose up against Abel, we see the same thing as the Pharisees who sat "in Moses' seat" were often angered and opposed Christ at every opportunity.

Accusation arises out of our identification with form, the self. And the more we are attached to it, the more often we will accuse because we feel that our identity is being threatened. Underlying this is our desire to be accepted, so, like Cain, we react when we are not. But I emphasize, though the natural man and his "offering" are not acceptable to the Father, we were designed to pass through this process. As our natural man seeks to "buy and sell," to have and do out of the boasting of the self, he inadvertently creates the suffering that is needed to bring self to its end.

Romans 13:8-10 (NIV)

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." **Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.**

"Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." This is the nature of our Maker and the spiritual essence of the true self within. The law is only contradictory to the natural man, not the spiritual one. Given this, we do not realize that when we resist the law, we are resisting our own capacity to love.

Genesis 4:14-15 (NKJV)

Surely you have driven me out this day from the face of the ground; I shall be hidden from your face; I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth, and it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me." And the Lord said to him, "Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold." And **the Lord set a mark on Cain** , lest anyone finding him should kill him.

As we have discovered, Cain, representative of the soul or self, becomes "a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth," destined to act out of selfishness and to wander without true meaning or purpose. What is said afterward is where we begin to find an understanding of the mark. "'And it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me.' And the Lord said to him, 'Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.' And the Lord set a mark on Cain, lest anyone finding him should kill him." Is this mark the same as that seen in Revelation 13:16? I believe it is.

If we consider all of the passages relating to the "mark" in the book of the Revelation, we will find in all of them that it must be "received" but it never mentions from whom it is given. Genesis 4:15 tells us that _it is the Lord_ who "set a mark on Cain." Is the same thing true in Revelation? It appears so. So what does this "mark" represent?

Remember, Cain is the "firstborn" and represents the natural man or self in all of us. With this in mind, consider the following.

Exodus 4:21-23 (NKJV)

And the Lord said to Moses, "When you go back to Egypt, see that you do all those wonders before Pharaoh which I have put in your hand. But I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go. Then you shall say to Pharaoh, 'Thus says the Lord: " **Israel is my son, my firstborn**. So I say to you, **let my son go that he may serve me**. But if you refuse to let him go, indeed **I will kill your son, your firstborn**." ' "

Exodus 13:1-16 (NKJV)

Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, " **Consecrate to me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is mine.** " And Moses said to the people: "Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten. On this day you are going out, in the month Abib. And it shall be, when the Lord brings you into the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month. Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a feast to the Lord. Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days. And no leavened bread shall be seen among you, nor shall leaven be seen among you in all your quarters. And you shall tell your son in that day, saying, 'This is done because of what the Lord did for me when I came up from Egypt.' **It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, that the Lord's law may be in your mouth; for with a strong hand the Lord has brought you out of Egypt.** You shall therefore keep this ordinance in its season from year to year. "And it shall be, when the Lord brings you into the land of the Canaanites, as He swore to you and your fathers, and gives it to you, that you shall set apart to the Lord all that open the womb, that is, every firstborn that comes from an animal which you have; the males shall be the Lord's. But every firstborn of a donkey you shall redeem with a lamb; and if you will not redeem it, then you shall break its neck. And all the firstborn of man among your sons you shall redeem. So it shall be, when your son asks you in time to come, saying, 'What is this?' that you shall say to him, 'By strength of hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. And it came to pass, when Pharaoh was stubborn about letting us go, that the Lord killed all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man and the firstborn of beast. Therefore I sacrifice to the Lord all males that open the womb, but all the firstborn of my sons I redeem.' **It shall be as a sign on your hand and as frontlets between your eyes, for by strength of hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt.** "

In these passages we find a true understanding of the mark. The Lord tells Moses that all of the firstborn of "man and beast" must be consecrated to Him and that they are to "remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place." This became known as the Feast of Passover (Exodus 12:1-14) and was followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Exod. 12:15-20) and the Feast of Firstfruits (Lev. 23:9-14). Twice they are told to tell their "son in that day, saying, 'This is done because of what the Lord did for me when I came up out Egypt,'" and twice they are told, "It shall be as a _sign_ to you _on your hand_ and as _a memorial (frontlets) between your eyes_." The word "sign" is the same word used for Cain's "mark" in Genesis 4:15. The word "hand" refers to the right hand, from our previous definition which reads, "the _open_ one [indicating _power_ , _means_ , _direction_ , etc.]" (Matt. 26:64; Mark 12:36). The word "memorial" means, "a _memento_ (or memorable thing, day or writing)," taken from the word which means, "to _mark_ (so as to be recognized), i.e. to _remember_." Do you see the correlation between this and the "mark" of the beast which is received "in their right hand, or in their foreheads" in Revelation 13:16?

Based on these passages, I believe the "mark" of Cain in Genesis represents the "mark" of the beast in Revelation. So look once more at verse 9.

Exodus 13:9 (NKJV)

It shall be as **a sign to you on your hand** and as **a memorial between your eyes, that the Lord's law may be in your mouth** ; for with a strong hand the Lord has brought you out of Egypt.

What was the purpose of the "sign" (mark) and the "memorial?" "That the Lord's law may be in your mouth." So the "mark" refers to the law which came out of the covenant that God made with Moses and the children of Israel (Exod. 19:5). Why do I say this? Because a covenant is established for the purpose of _remembrance_ (forehead) as well as to execute the _power_ (right hand) of it. Remember, the Old Covenant (or Old Testament as it is known), relates to the first man Adam, the natural man, the "man of sin," typified by Cain. As long as we conduct ourselves after the mind of form, we are subject to this covenant and to the law that is necessary for our unrighteous behavior. As we know, this law is bound up in the principle of reaping what we sow, of receiving corruption when we sow to the flesh.

We are told that "no one may _buy_ or _sell_ except one who has the mark" (Rev. 13:17; NKJV). In other words, "the boasting of what" man "has (buying) and does (selling)" which "comes _not from the Father_ but _from the world_ ," is subject to the law of God for as long as it is necessary. But once we pass from the Old Covenant to the New we find, "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds _I will remember no more_." Why? Because love is the fulfillment of the law, so when we walk in it, there is no longer a need for the remembrance that this covenant stipulates, for "the law is not made for a righteous man" (I Tim. 1:9; KJV). Furthermore, "the law was our schoolmaster (tutor) to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, _we are no longer under a schoolmaster_ (tutor)" (Gal. 3:24-25; KJV).

Genesis 4:14-15 (NKJV)

Surely you have driven me out this day from the face of the ground; I shall be hidden from your face; I shall be a fugitive and a vagabond on the earth, and it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me." And the Lord said to him, "Therefore, whoever kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold." **And the Lord set a mark on Cain** , lest anyone finding him should kill him.

Romans 12:17-21 (NKJV)

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, " **Vengeance is Mine, I will repay** ," says the Lord. Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

James 4:11-12 (NIV)

Brothers, do not slander one another. **Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it**. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. **But you—who are you to judge your neighbor**?

When "the Lord set a mark on Cain," we see how He "marked" the "firstborn" or self in all of us, establishing the law as the means necessary to know sin and to understand its consequences. So James tells us, "Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?" What a powerful statement. "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge," James writes, "the one who is able to save and destroy." No wonder Paul wrote, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay." But this is not vengeance without purpose. Rather, it is a vengeance that issues from a father because of the rebelliousness of his son.

In reference to Cain, we read, "it will happen that anyone who finds me will kill me." The Lord's response? "'Therefore, whoever kills Cain, _vengeance_ shall be taken on him sevenfold.' And the Lord set a mark on Cain, lest anyone finding him should kill him." And how is this "vengeance" accomplished? Is it not by means of reaping what we sow? And doesn't this incorporate the laws of society which proceed from the law of God and our own conscience?

Remember the definition of "sin?" It means "to _miss_ the mark." The "mark" _is_ the law, so we "miss" it when we transgress it. We then reap the consequences, a form of discipline necessary for our humbling.

Again, I am reminded that it was the Lord who gave the law to Moses and the children of Israel and " _the tables were the work of God_ , and _the writing was the writing of God_ , graven upon the tables" (Exod. 32:16; KJV). The law was divinely sanctioned and placed into this world of form by the Father of all creation as a means to "save and destroy" our natural man. "The law of the Lord is perfect, _converting the soul_ : the testimony of the Lord is sure, _making wise the simple_ " (Psalms 19:7; KJV). When we disregard it, we reap suffering, and this suffering is what the Bible portrays as the "wrath" and "vengeance" of God (Rev. 6:10; 16:1).

When we judge others, James tells us we are judging the law. When we do this, we are in essence putting ourselves above God and above His divine principles which He has established. We are in essence saying that what God has put in place is not good enough. In a manner of speaking, we are mocking Him, ridiculing the fact that the law cannot do what it was set in place to do.

It is not our place to "kill" Cain. This is God's business, not ours. Furthermore, only our Creator can bring self to an end. This is why we do not judge, for God alone is able to "save" or "destroy" the self, and it is His choice, not ours. Our place is to "live peaceably with all men" and to "not avenge" ourselves, "but rather give place to wrath." In other words, let God decide as God will and let the process do what it was set in place to do. To put it simply, this is why He is God.

Paul tells us that the "law brings wrath" (Rom. 4:15; NIV), so when we "give place to wrath," we acknowledge that God is the one who recompenses to the natural man what is needed for his discipline, first in us, then in others. Remember, the living Word is a "two-edged sword." No wonder Paul wrote, "For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged" (I Cor. 11:31; KJV). "Therefore 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.'" The phrase, "coals of fire" brings us back to the fifth seal in Revelation, Chapter 6.

Revelation 6:9-11 (KJV)

And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not **judge and avenge our blood** on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

Remember, _five_ is the number of "grace," so when the _fifth_ seal is opened, John sees "under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held." Where were these souls seen? "Under the altar," signifying that they had been completely consumed by the fire of God's living Word, the self (just like the animal sacrifices of the law), "killed" at the altar as it were and consumed by the "fire" of God's divine purpose. Out of this picture of complete and utter self-sacrifice, "they cried with a loud voice, saying, 'How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not _judge_ and _avenge_ our blood on them that dwell on the earth?'" You see my friend, God's judgment always proceeds out of the self-sacrifice of those who have given themselves completely to Him. It is a vengeance based on the sacrificial nature of the cross, tempered by fire and saturated with grace.

No doubt the "souls of them that were slain for the word of God" includes Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, Solomon, as well as Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and the other disciples of the Lord. Because the New Testament scriptures were written almost two thousand years ago, those "that should be killed as they were" speaks of the men and women who have since laid down their lives for the sake of truth; whose self-sacrifice is evident to the rest of us. Again, it is out of this shining light of self-sacrifice that judgment and vengeance proceeds. Just as the "voice" of Abel's "blood" cried out _for_ Cain _to_ God "from the ground" (Gen. 4:10; NKJV), so too does the judgment and vengeance of the fifth seal proceed from the "blood" of those in it. And why must the "blood" be judged and avenged? "For _the life of the flesh is in the blood_ : and _I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls_ : for _it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul_ " (Lev. 17:11). No wonder Paul wrote, "And almost all things are _by the law_ purged with blood; and _without shedding of blood is no remission_ " (Heb. 9:22; KJV). Just as the flesh dies when the blood leaves our human form, so the "life of the flesh" departs when our "self" dies, leaving the "life of the Spirit" in its place. It is a death before death.

Revelation 13:16-18 (KJV)

And **he causeth all** , both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, **to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads** : **And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name**. Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

As these passages indicate, it is "all" of us who "receive a mark" in our "right hand" or "forehead" and none of us "buy or sell" without it. In other words, every act we perform or "sow" has a consequence that we will "reap."

So if it is true that the "mark" given by the "beast coming up out of the earth" speaks of the law, then how do we explain the "name of the beast?" We find it in Revelation 13:1.

Revelation 13:1 (KJV)

And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven

heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads **the name of blasphemy**.

Though there are seven heads seen on the beast which rises out of the sea, there is only one "name" given and it is "the name of _blasphemy_." Please consider.

Romans 2:17-25 (NKJV)

Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law. You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? **You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law?** For "the name of God is **blasphemed** among the Gentiles (nations) because of you," as it is written. **For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.**

In these passages, Paul addresses the Jews who embraced the law (Rom. 2:17). Note how he states, "For 'the name of God is _blasphemed_ among the Gentiles (nations) because of you,' as it is written. For circumcision (which relates to the covenants) is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision." In other words, it doesn't matter if we embrace the law if we do not keep it. To do so is blasphemy. And haven't we discovered that the mind set on form, by nature of its own self, resists the very thing it claims to embrace and uses as a means to accuse? Also note that Paul says "the name of God is blasphemed." The word "name" is defined as, "a " _name_ " (literal or figurative) [ _authority_ , _character_ ]," and is taken from the word which means, "to " _know_ '"(absolute), in a great variety of applications and with many implications." To "blaspheme" the name of God is to vilify His authority and character by misrepresenting to others that we "know" him.

Taking another look at the "number" of the beast, the King James Version of scripture gives this rendering -- "His number is six hundred (600) threescore (60) and six (6)." Here we have _three_ numbers which make up the _one_ number of the beast, beginning with _six hundred_. _Six hundred_ speaks of _warfare_ (Exod. 14:7; Judges 3:31; 20:46-47; 18:7-11; I Sam. 17:7; I Kings 23:13; I Sam. 30:1-18).

The number _sixty_ stands for _pride_. Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, set up an image that was _sixty_ cubits high (Dan. 3:1), and clearly _pride_ was his motivating factor.

Daniel 4:30-31 (NKJV)  
The king spoke, saying, "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?" While the word _was still_ in the king's mouth, a voice fell from heaven: "King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you!

Because of his pride, Nebuchadnezzar was deprived of his reason and made to eat grass with the beasts of the field (Dan. 4:32). This follows immediately after the king had erected the great image _sixty_ cubits high.

We should also note that _sixty_ is _six_ times _ten_ , the number of man in his opposition to his Maker coupled with _ten_ , the number of a complete cycle and which points to the Law or Ten Commandments.

To emphasize, _six_ stands for man's resistance to God's principles. Remember, in _six_ we see the _three_ or "work" of sowing via the male and the _three_ or "work" of reaping or receiving via the female. So seen in the "mark" of Cain and the beast is the sowing and reaping of the natural man under the law as he wars against his Maker out of pride, out of the boasting of what he has (3; reaping) and does (3; sowing) (3 + 3 = 6).

Romans 7:14 (KJV)

For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

Romans 6:23 (KJV)

For the **wages** of sin is death; but the **gift** of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Note how Paul contrasts the "wages" of sin with the "gift" of God. Wages imply pay which is earned, whereas "gift" implies just that, something freely given (Matt. 10:8). To clarify, the boasting of what man has and does represents the "buy or sell" of Revelation 13:17. The mark of the beast is not a physical mark, name or number, but representative of sowing and reaping as exemplified by the law which oversees the behavior of our natural man. "However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural, and afterward the spiritual" (I Cor. 15:46; NKJV). The collective influence of this natural, carnal man "sold" us "under sin" where we reap the "wages of sin" which is "death." But this was purposed from the very beginning of man's existence, the Old Covenant given to make way for the New. We have done nothing wrong in the sense of all that we have considered because the principle of sowing and reaping is by divine design intended by our Source. Our "firstborn," Cain, the natural being, belongs to and is subject to God, and our "firstborn," Abel, the spiritual being, also belongs to and is subject to God, for he was breathed into us by our heavenly Father, having come directly from the Father of our spirits (Heb. 12:9). Despite what we think should be done about our own unrighteousness, God has the final word; He alone is the lawgiver and judge and it is always His decision. Vengeance belongs to Him; He will repay. And His vengeance always proceeds out of the grace of self-sacrifice and of divine love for His creation. It will not be otherwise.

### CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Coals of Fire

In our previous chapter, we discovered that the mark, name and number of the beast symbolizes the work of the law of God that relates to the natural man of our being. This does of course stress the importance of the law and the significance of what happened at Mount Sinai as recorded in Exodus, Chapters 19 through 31.

The subject of the law cannot be taken lightly, for the core of the Bible is, as we will examine more closely in the next chapter, centered upon the Two Covenants, out of which proceeds the law and the promise, and they are intimately connected; one is not without the other.

The law is much more than the Ten Commandments, but the three main components of the law could be considered as the Ten Commandments, the Tabernacle, and the Feasts. In these three components are found natural "types" of spiritual realities that are relevant to us even in this present age. Furthermore, it should be noted that when we understand the true essence of the law as seen in our principle of sowing and reaping, then it should come as no surprise that what begins in Genesis will be found in Revelation. Remember, Paul wrote, "For until the law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses" (Rom. 5:14; NKJV). Why did death reign? Because of the principle of sowing and reaping. This is not a written principle, but a living and dynamic process integrated into all creation at its conception.

As we have found, what began as the dynamics of sowing and reaping recorded in Genesis became the basis of the law which God delivered to Moses and the children of Israel as recorded in the books which followed. Following this, the entrance of Christ into the world produced the spiritual reality of these Old Testament "types" that were established and seen in the natural or visible realm. What happened to Christ and the apostles then became the writings of what we call the New Testament. So we cannot throw out the Old Testament in light of the New, for they are joined together, presenting the natural and the spiritual realities of our being. The Old Testament is far more than just a history book about the nation of Israel and a few of their patriarchs. It is a natural picture of the spiritual realities within which all of us are presently part of.

Finally, we mustn't forget that the basis on which the laws of man are founded is rooted in the law of God. As we discussed in a previous chapter, the laws of society are not there merely by circumstance. If our current laws were not structured upon those which came from the nation of Israel, then they are most certainly structured upon that which exists in our own conscience. Either way, they can be traced back to the fact that our Creator fully intended for this to be part of our earthly existence.

As mentioned before, the apostle Paul is credited with a good part of the letters of the New Testament and rightfully so. Being an expert in the law, he was more than qualified to present the spiritual realities of the law and the promise, having been fully and completely committed to both. When we understand this, then it becomes apparent why Paul spent so much time writing about the law of the Old Covenant in contrast to the promise of the New Covenant. And Paul did not write simply out of his own thinking, but from the spiritual depth of his own experience with God and Christ (II Cor. 12:2).

Matthew 5:17-18 (NKJV)

"Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. **I did not come to destroy but to fulfill**. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, **one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled**.

Jesus said that He came "to fulfill" the "Law" and the "Prophets" and that "one jot or one tittle (smallest detail) will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled." What was to be "fulfilled?" The Law. And what fulfills it? What the prophets spoke. So to emphasize, we have the "law" and the fulfilling of it, i.e. the "prophets," which would also be seen as the promise. Furthermore, the words "fulfill" and "fulfilled" themselves imply that the law is more than just a passive set of commands; as we have said, it is dynamic, certain portions of it fulfilled in Christ and the apostles and other portions to be fulfilled as seen in the book of the Revelation.

John 4:34 (NIV)

"My food," said Jesus, "is **to do the will of him who sent me** and **to finish his work**.

In this statement is confirmation of our passages in Matthew, Chapter 5. When Jesus came into this world almost two thousand years ago, He most certainly accomplished the will of our heavenly Father who sent Him. But it didn't end there. What Christ did in the flesh is done, but now as a "life-giving Spirit" (I Cor. 15:45), He is finishing the work of His Father. I believe this is symbolized in Revelation, Chapter 5, where we see a "book" " _sealed_ with _seven_ seals." The fact that there are _seven_ seals indicates that there is something to be "finished" (7). The words "fulfill" and "fulfilled" also signify a _seven_ which denotes "spiritual perfection" (Bullinger), taken from the root which means " _to be full_ or _satisfied_ , _have enough of_ " (Bullinger).When we see the "Lamb" take the book out of the "right hand of Him who sat on the throne," we see Christ, the life-giving Spirit, receiving the authority of the Father to "finish" what was purposed in the law and the prophets (Matt. 28:18).

Isaiah 11:2-5 (NKJV)

The **Spirit of the Lord** shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of **wisdom** and **understanding** , the Spirit of **counsel** and **might** , the Spirit of **knowledge** and of the **fear** of the Lord. His delight is in the fear of the Lord, and He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, nor decide by the hearing of His ears; But with **righteousness** He shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt of His loins, and faithfulness the belt of His waist.

Revelation 1:4 (NKJV)

... and from the **seven Spirits** who are before His throne...

Revelation 5:6 (NKJV)

And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the throne and of the four living creatures, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as though it had been slain, having **seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent out into all the earth**.

As Revelation 1:4 and 5:6 show, there are "seven Spirits of God," symbolized by the "seven horns (signifying the will of God in Christ) and seven eyes (signifying the understanding of the will of God)" "before His throne." Isaiah gives these seven Spirits which are in essence, not seven individual Spirits, but six characteristics of the ONE Spirit of the Lord which are summed up in the seventh. Whenever we consider the seventh Spirit, we see the fullness and the manifestation of the other six as evidenced first in Christ and then in humankind; _righteousness_. In other words, His righteousness is manifested as His wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge and fear. No wonder Isaiah said, "But with _righteousness_ He shall judge." Let's revisit some passages from Proverbs to illustrate our understanding of _seven_.

Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV)

These **six** things the Lord hates, yes, **seven** are an abomination to Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.

There are "six things the Lord hates" and "seven are an abomination to Him." They are:

1. A proud look

2. A lying tongue

3. Hands that shed innocent blood

4. A heart that devises wicked plans (imaginations; KJV)

5. Feet that are swift in running to evil

6. A false witness who speaks lies

7. One who sows discord among brethren

Notice that the first five things named in our list use parts of the body in their description, starting with the _head_ (a proud look) and ending with the _feet_ (that are swift in running to evil). When we bring the first five components together, _it becomes the sixth thing_ , which is "a false witness who speaks lies" (which agrees with the spiritual meaning of the number _six_ ). Finally, the _seventh_ thing, that which is considered an "abomination" to the Lord is "one who _sows_ discord among brethren." So the _sixth_ thing is _what we are_ while the _seventh_ thing is the manifestation of what we are; i.e. _what we do_. A "false witness who speaks lies" _is_ "one who sows discord." Again, this shows that the seventh is the manifestation of the six things which God hates. Keep in mind that the seventh can also be seen as the "fruit" of a tree or "fullness" of the seed which was planted. Let's look at our passages from Romans, Chapter 12, once more.

Romans 12:17-21 (NKJV)

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord. Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing **you will heap coals of fire on his head**." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:19-20 (NIV)

Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, **you will heap burning coals on his head**."

Remember, the "wrath" of God is contained in the law of God (Rom. 4:15), so when we read "leave room for God's wrath," we are to allow the law to exact the vengeance that God desires. At first glance, this injunction seems severe, but we must keep in mind that our Father knows far better than we do what is needed for the disobedience of our natural man. So we are told, "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head." This phrase "coals of fire" denotes the fulfillment of that which the law requires and brings us to the following passages.

Revelation 8:1-5 (KJV)

And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the **golden altar** which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand. And the angel took the censer, and **filled it with fire of the altar** , and cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake.

Remember, the three main components of the law are the Ten Commandments, the Tabernacle, and the Feasts. Incorporated within the law were not only the instructions on how the Tabernacle should be built, but how to conduct the ordinances once the Tabernacle was in place. So in the Tabernacle of Moses, we find an _altar of incense_ placed "before the veil that is before the ark of the Testimony, before the mercy seat that is over the Testimony, where I (God) will meet with you" (Exod. 30:6; NKJV). This "altar of incense" is what we see in Revelation, Chapter 8. The "coals of fire" in Romans 12:20 correlate with these passages where we see the "altar" (of incense) and the "golden censer" which is "filled" (7) with "much incense" and the "fire of the altar." The "fire of the altar" is the "coals of fire" of which Paul speaks. The "much incense" represents "the prayers of the saints" (Rev. 5:8; NKJV) which points to the fifth seal in Revelation, Chapter 6, where we read, "And they (the souls under the altar) cried with a loud voice, saying, 'How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You _judge_ and _avenge_ our blood on those who dwell on the earth'" (Rev. 6:10; NKJV)? So the vengeance of Romans 12:19 is seen in the word "avenge" in the fifth seal. It's interesting to see that the "golden altar" is in front of the veil that separates it from the "mercy seat." This reveals that our suffering removes the "veil" of our self and selfishness as we experience the "mercy" of our Creator in that suffering.

And where was the "fire of the altar" cast? "Into the earth," on "the first man" who "is of the earth, earthy" (I Cor. 15:47; KJV). This agrees with the "coals of fire on his head" in Romans 12:20, indicating the dynamic working of the law on the natural man, the principle of sowing and reaping. The word "head" is the same word found in our hierarchy of I Corinthians 11:3; God, Christ, man, woman. This confirms the work of God's grace through the law which is needed to remove the "self" as "god" in the "temple of God" (II Thess. 2:4).

What we have just considered begins with the opening of the seventh seal where we see, "silence in heaven about the space of half an hour." "Half an hour" is an hour "divided," so I cannot help but think of the " _dividing_ of time" as mentioned in Daniel 7:25 and also described as "half a time" in Revelation 12:14. And what is meant by this? The _separation_ (dividing) of light from darkness or the wheat from the tares at the time of harvest.

Also preceding the "coals of fire" we see the "seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets." At this point these trumpets have not yet sounded. This follows _after_ the coals of fire are cast into the earth (Rev. 8:6). This shows that the "coals of fire" are the _source_ and _reason_ for the trumpets (and vials).

Now, look at Revelation 8:5. Once the "fire of the altar" has been cast into the earth, we read, "And there were _voices_ , and _thunderings_ , and _lightnings_ , and an _earthquake_." Let's compare this with some passages from Exodus, Chapter 19.

Exodus 19:16-19 (NKJV)

Then it came to pass on the **third day** , in the **morning** , that there were **thunderings** and **lightnings** , and a thick cloud on the mountain; and **the sound of the trumpet was very loud** , so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. And Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God, and they stood at the foot of the mountain. Now Mount Sinai was completely in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire. Its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and **the whole mountain quaked greatly**. And **when the blast of the trumpet sounded long and became louder and louder** , Moses spoke, and God answered him by voice.

In Exodus 19:16, we read "on the _third day_ , in the _morning_ , that there were _thunderings_ and _lightnings_ ," agreeing with what's seen in the seventh seal. Note in Exodus 19:18 that "the whole mountain _quaked greatly_ ," agreeing with our "earthquake." Finally, we see "the sound of a trumpet" and "when the blast of the trumpet sounded long and became louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him by voice." This aligns with the "trumpets" of the seventh seal as well as the "voices." Though there are _seven_ trumpets in Revelation, it is but _one sevenfold_ message. The "voices" equate to the unified "prayers of the saints" in Revelation 5:8 and 6:10 because they are in accordance with the law and the prophets through which God exacts both judgment (sowing) and vengeance (reaping) (Isa. 40:24; Hosea 8:7). When all "voices" agree, it is but _one_ voice. This is why it is important to understand that the law is not just the Ten Commandments, but also includes the Tabernacle and the Feasts.

So what do the "voices" and "lightnings" and "thunderings" and "earthquake" all mean? Let's take our understanding thus far and bring it to the first seal in Revelation, Chapter 6.

Revelation 6:1 (KJV)

And I **saw** (lightning) when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the **noise of thunder** (thundering), one of the four beasts **saying** , Come and see (voices).

Do you see it? In the opening of the first seal, we find our three components of lightning, thunder, and voices. When the Lamb (Christ) opens the first seal John sees the "brightness" of its opening. Why do I say this? Because lightning causes thunder and John hears "the noise of thunder" following what he sees. The "voices" are what each of the "four beasts" (living creatures) say. Remember, the faces of the four living creatures signify the banners of the twelve tribes, the nation of Israel, which camped around the Tabernacle, those whom God chose because of their "fathers" (Deut. 7:6-8; 14:2) and to whom the law was first given. So in the "voices" of the four living creatures, we see the living and dynamic expression of the law as first instituted by and through the people of Israel. Now, let's bring this to some passages in the book of Hebrews, which will help us to better define their spiritual meaning and fulfillment.

Hebrews 12:18-29 (NKJV)

**For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire** , and to blackness and darkness and tempest, and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore. (For they could not endure what was commanded: "And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow." And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.") But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel. See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, " **Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven**." Now this, "Yet once more," **indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain**. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire.

Hebrews 12:27 (NIV)  
The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken--that is, **created things** \--so that what cannot be shaken may remain.

Verses 18 through 21 of Hebrews are a reference to our passages in Exodus, Chapter 19. In contrast to Mount Sinai, we are given a description of "Mount Zion" and "the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem" (Jerusalem which is above; Gal. 4:26). So the natural types are further expanded for our understanding, Mount Sinai pointing to "Mount Zion" and the people of Israel indicative of "the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem," the "general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven." We then read, "See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, _'Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven_.' Now this, 'Yet once more,' _indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain_. (Note how the NIV renders verse 27 as "created things"). Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." The "voices" of the seventh seal and the four living creatures can be summed up as the "voice" of our Father who speaks through the "souls under the altar" and "the prayers" of His saints. No wonder Jesus taught us to pray "Your kingdom come. _Your will be done on earth_ as it is in heaven" (Matt. 6:10; NKJV).

Further understanding of the lightning and thunder can be taken from the Parable of the Sower.

Matthew 13:13-15 (NKJV)

Therefore I speak to them in parables, because **seeing they do not see** , and **hearing they do not hear** , nor do they understand. And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: **'Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, and seeing you will see and not perceive** ; for the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.'

We "see" lightning but "hear" thunder, so Christ spoke first of "seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear" (lightning and thunder), then "Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, and seeing you will see and not perceive (thunder and lightning)." So in verses 13 and 14, Christ implies the trumpets (Rev. 11:19), then the vials (Rev. 16:18), and then reverses it as the vials and the trumpets. As Hebrews indicates, the "shaking" of heaven and earth or "earthquake" denotes the living Word working in our minds and hearts and "the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made (created things), that the things which cannot be shaken may remain." The phrase "of things that are made" is defined as, "to _make_ or _do_ (in a very wide application, more or less direct)." "Make" speaks of our creative ability while "do" defines the "work" of our hands. As for that "which cannot be shaken," it is the principles of the living truth of the kingdom of God. This agrees with the "stone" in Nebuchadnezzar's dream.

Now, let's go to the following passages.

Revelation 11:15, 19 (KJV)

And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever. And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were **lightnings** , and **voices** , and **thunderings** , and an **earthquake** , and **great hail**.

Keep in mind that the seven trumpets do not appear or sound until the opening of the seventh seal. So the "fullness" or the manifestation of the book sealed with seven seals represents the manifestation of the work of the Father through Christ as seen in the seven trumpets. Let's go to Revelation, Chapter 16, to see the seven vials or bowls.

Revelation 15:7 (NKJV)

Then one of the four living creatures gave to the seven angels **seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God** who lives forever and ever.

Revelation 16:17-18, 21 (KJV)

And the seventh angel poured out his **vial** (bowl) into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, it is done. And there were **voices** , and **thunders** , and **lightnings** ; and there was **a great earthquake** , such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. And there fell upon men **a great hail** out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and **men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail** ; for the **plague** thereof was exceeding great.

Along with our seven trumpets of Revelation, we also find seven "vials" or bowls in Revelation 15:7. Note that the "seven golden bowls" are " _full_ of the wrath of God," indicating the _manifestation_ (7) of the work of the law (Rom. 4:15). Not surprisingly, our word "plague" is defined by the Strong's Concordance as, "a _stroke_ ; by implication a _wound_ ; figurative a _calamity_." This is taken from the word which is translated as "smite," clearly indicating _discipline_. Again, not surprisingly, we find in Revelation 13:3 in reference to the "beast" which rises out of the sea, that the word "wound" is the same Greek word used for "plague."

When we consider the "seventh angel" and the pouring out of the seventh bowl, we read, "And there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, it is done. And there were _voices_ , and _thunders_ , and _lightnings_ ; and there was _a great earthquake_." Like our "fire of the altar" and our seventh trumpet, we have the voices, thunders, lightnings, and earthquake.

So let's sum up what we have considered. When the seventh seal is opened, the "fire of the altar" is cast into the earth. When this happens, we see "voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake." When the seventh trumpet is sounded we see "lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail." When the seventh bowl is poured out, "there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake." The seventh seal, trumpet, and vial all agree with each other, though they are seen in a different order. And what does the spiritual meaning of _seven_ signify? _The manifestation of the other six preceding them_. So the _seventh_ seal, trumpet, and bowl represent _the manifestation of the preceding six seals, trumpets, and bowls_ ; in other words, _three sixe_ s (666) or the "mark" of the beast, the work of the law and the prophets (fulfilling of the law) as Christ declared in Matthew 5:17-18. Now, let's consider more detail about our three sevens in the following list.

Coals of Fire

Seventh Seal

(Fire of the Altar)

_Voices_ , Thunderings, Lightnings, Earthquake

**Seventh Trumpet** (Prophets; _Seeing_ )

_Lightnings_ , Voices, Thunderings, Earthquake, Great Hail

**Seventh Bowl** (Law; _Hearing_ )

_Voices_ , Thunderings, Lightnings, Earthquake, Great Hail

Notice that the seventh seal and the seventh bowl are in the same order and begin with "voices." The seventh trumpet has the same components as the seal and bowl, but begins with "lightnings." All three have as their fourth component, an "earthquake." Finally, the seventh trumpet and bowl contain "great hail." Why these differences and what is the reality of these symbols?

We have already determined that our picture concerns the law and the prophets as Jesus declared in Matthew 5:17-18. The "voices" denote the collective unity of the "prayers of the saints" as seen in Hebrews 12:25-26 and Revelation 5:8 which are further described to us in Revelation 6:9-11. Careful consideration will also show that the "voice" of each "living creature" in the first four seals corresponds; the four "voices" of the living creatures (representing the twelve tribes of Israel; Rev. 21:12) also signifying the prayers of the saints. These "voices" declare the _judgment_ and _vengeance_ (wrath) or sowing and reaping of the living and active Word of God by and through His law. This collective "voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, 'Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven'" (Heb. 12:26; NKJV). As we see, this shaking of heaven and earth defines our "earthquake" as seen in our three sevens. By no means is this literal, but represents the upheaval of the mind (heaven) and heart (earth) that we experience because of the judgment of the natural man in all of us.

Matthew 13:13-14 (KJV)

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they **seeing see not** (lightning); and **hearing they hear not** (thundering), neither do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By **hearing ye shall hear** (thundering), and shall not understand; and **seeing ye shall see** (lightning), and shall not perceive...

I believe the seven trumpets and seven bowls run concurrently. I say this because they are connected by what we are considering; the voices, thunder, lightning, earthquake and hail. And again, it is _the law_ as signified by the bowls and _the fulfilling of the law_ or prophets (promise) as signified by the trumpets. The essence of sowing and reaping in both the natural and spiritual aspects of our being are signified.

When we view the seventh trumpet, it begins with "lightnings" as opposed to "voices." Why? Because it speaks of those who, like John, "see" when the Lamb opens the seals (Matt. 13:13; Mark 4:12). In other words, they understand that Christ, as a life-giving Spirit, is finishing the work of our Father, fulfilling every detail of the law as He said He would. So then Paul writes, "Behold, I tell you a mystery: _We shall not all sleep_ , but we shall all be changed – in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the _last trumpet_. For _the trumpet will sound_ , and _the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed_ " (I Cor. 15:51-52; NKJV). Compare this with the following.

Revelation 10:7 (KJV)

But **in the days of the voice of the seventh angel** , when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

What did Paul declare in I Corinthians 15:51? A _mystery_. What does the preceding passage tell us concerning "the _days of the voice_ of the _seventh_ angel?" "The _mystery of God should be finished_ ," agreeing with the fact that it is the seventh trumpet, the finishing of the six which precede it. And to whom did God declare this mystery? "To His servants the prophets," so again we have the law and the prophets as Jesus said. And what is this mystery? Would it not be the essence of the seven seals themselves, a "seal" indicating a "mystery," and out of which comes the "trumpets" and "vials?" And doesn't the "fullness" (7) of this mystery end with, "We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed," for "the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." Doesn't "sleep" refer to our spirit since the spirit cannot die? And what would be the reality of this change? Would it not be to "awake out of sleep" (Rom. 13:11: KJV), to be awakened fully to righteousness (I Cor. 15:34), to walk "in the Spirit" by means of our spirit (Rom. 8:1, 4), in the richness of the divine love of God, so much so that we no longer sin because its nature has been destroyed by the power and presence of the One who has made us? No wonder Paul said that "love is the fulfilling of the law" (Rom. 13:10; KJV). Is it hard to believe that we can attain this love? Can we not see in this that divine love is the key to destroying the sin nature, the natural man, the "body of this death" (Rom. 7:24; KJV)?

Revelation 20:2-3 (KJV)

And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.

Look closely at these passages, beginning with verse 2. What does "a thousand years" represent? A _day_ , indicating _the light of the glory of the wisdom and righteousness of God_. What does a "seal" represent? A _mystery_. And if that mystery is revealed, then wouldn't "that old serpent" of the imagination of the natural man be "bound" and the nations no longer deceived?

Now, what does the word "fulfilled" mean? To _finish_. What happens "in the days of the voice of the seventh angel?" Isn't the "mystery of God" _finished_ or completed? So is what we see in these passages an understanding that many shall awaken until they have risen up in the "fullness" of the righteousness of the kingdom of God (Matt. 6:33)?

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NKJV)

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And **walk in love** , as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, **an offering and a sacrifice** to God for **a sweet-smelling aroma**.

Do you see the "incense" of Revelation 8:3 and 4 in the "sweet-smelling aroma" of this passage? Can we see that the eternal life which Jesus declared is to truly dwell in the love of God (I John 4:16)?

Revelation 11:19 (KJV)

And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and **great hail**.

Revelation 16:21 (KJV)

And there fell upon men **a great hail** out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and **men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail** ; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.

Matthew 24:12 (KJV)  
And because iniquity **shall abound** , the love **of many** shall **wax cold**.

Matthew 24:12 (NKJV)

And because lawlessness will abound, **the love of many will grow cold**.

Matthew 24:12 addresses the meaning of the "great hail" seen with our lightning, voices, thundering and earthquake. This speaks of an increase of lawlessness over time that causes "the love of many" to "grow cold" (hail). Consider Vincent's treatment of Matthew 24:12.

**Shall abound** (πληθυνθῆναι)

Lit., _shall be multiplied_. See Acts 6:1, 7; 7:17; 9:31; Hebrews 6:14.

**Of many** (τῶν πολλῶν)

The A. V. in omitting the definite article, misses the force of Christ's saying. It is not the love of _many people_ only that shall be chilled, but of _the_ many, _the majority, the great body_.

**Wax cold** (ψυγήσεται)

The verb means originally to _breathe_ or _blow_ ; and the picture is that of spiritual energy blighted or chilled by a malign or poisonous wind.

If sin is the transgression of the law, then the idea of lawlessness "multiplied" emphasizes the picture of our resistance to the law or the wrath of God as seen in our seven golden bowls in Revelation 15:7. The phrase "men _blasphemed_ God" points to the beast who rises up out of the sea in Revelation, Chapter 13, and the phrase, "upon his heads the name of _blasphemy_ " that we looked at before. When we take a raw and honest look at our present reality, there can be no doubt as to its fulfillment. But as we can see, all of this was addressed and determined by the Word of God. The intense suffering that is being witnessed in our natural man is leading us to a new beginning.

Let's do a recap of what we have considered up to this point. The seven trumpets and seven vials proceed out of the seventh seal, so we have _three_ sevens in this presentation. But the seventh is simply indicative of the fullness or manifestation of the preceding six. This would be our _three sixes_ or 666, the mark of the beast. The opening of the seventh seal is the complete disclosure of the "mystery of God" which is the spiritual manifestation of the six which precede it and incorporate and define _the dividing of time_ , the _separation_ of light from darkness and the wheat from the tares. The description of the trumpets and vials out of the seventh seal are an understanding of the work of the law being fulfilled as spoken by the prophets, and the reality of this being accomplished by the principle of sowing and reaping that relates to both the natural and spiritual elements of our being.

The "vials" signify "the law" while the "trumpets" signify "the Prophets" or promise, the fulfilling of the law. We are considering three major sevens, so is what we find in Revelation, Chapter 21 (three sevens) a coincidence?

Revelation 21:1 (KJV)

And **I saw a new heaven and a new earth** : for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

Where did the beast with two horns like a lamb come from? The _earth_. And what does John see in Revelation 21:1? "A new heaven and a new _earth_." Why? Because "the _first_ heaven and the _first_ earth were passed away." Is the " _first_ heaven and _first_ earth" indicative of the " _first_ man" who "is _of the earth_ , earthy" (I Cor. 15:47; KJV), our natural man? And when the life of this natural man has perished or "passed away" in accordance with God's principles of sowing and reaping, would we not then receive the life of the spiritual man? Would this be "a new heaven" or consciousness which brings a "new earth" or state of being into our existence? Would this be the meaning behind our three sevens? And what would be the reality of this state of being? Would it not be to walk in the love of God in the same manner as Christ did? Does this not seem like something that can be attained, something that is possible within our being?

Let's take our understanding of our three sevens to the book of Genesis.

Genesis 4:15 (KJV)

And the LORD said unto him, therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him **sevenfold** (7). And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.

Genesis 4:23-24 (NKJV)

Then Lamech said to his wives: "Adah and Zillah, hear my voice; Wives of Lamech, listen to my speech! For I have killed a man for wounding me, even a young man for hurting me. If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, then Lamech **seventy-sevenfold** (77)."

Matthew 18:21-22 (NKJV)

Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? (7)" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to **seventy times seven** (77).

If we compare our passages from Genesis, Chapter 4, with those seen in Matthew, Chapter 18 (as well as with our passages from Exodus 19, Revelation 8, Romans 12, and Hebrews 12), we find the meaning of the "sevenfold" (7) and "seventy-sevenfold" vengeance. As the Lord made clear to Peter, forgiveness of his brother's sin would not be "seven times" (7), but "seventy times seven" (77). This shows that God's vengeance is God's forgiveness, which is worked through His Two Covenants. Once again, this emphasizes why we are not qualified to accept or reject anyone. God alone knows the mind and heart of man, and the principles which He has placed into our existence are His to do as He will. It will be as He determines for each and every person on this planet.

Genesis 5:29-31 (NKJV)

And he called his name Noah, saying, "This one will comfort us concerning our work and the toil of our hands, because of the ground which the Lord has cursed." After he begot Noah, Lamech lived five hundred and ninety-five years, and had sons and daughters. So all the days of Lamech were **seven hundred and seventy-seven years** (777); and he died.

Not only do we find the "sevenfold" (7) and "seventy-sevenfold" (77) in Genesis, we then find our _three_ sevens in our passages concerning Lamech, Noah's father. Remember, three sevens make _twenty-one_. Here's what Bullinger wrote concerning _twenty-one_.

Twenty-one times in the Book of Kings it is said that Jeroboam the son of Nebat "made Israel to sin": —1 Kings 14:16, 15:26, 30, 34, 16:19, 26, 21:22, 22:52; 2 Kings 3:3, 10:29, 31, 13:2, 6, 11, 14:24, 15:9, 18, 24, 28, 17:21, 23:15.

It is interesting to find that in the history of Israel's wilderness journey, _twenty-one_ sins were recorded against them from Egypt to Jordan. Now, consider the following from the book of Numbers.

Numbers 3:45-47 (NIV)  
"Take the Levites in place of all the firstborn of Israel, and the livestock of the Levites in place of their livestock. The Levites are to be mine. I am the LORD. To redeem the **273** firstborn Israelites who exceed the number of the Levites, collect **five** shekels for each one, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs.

The number "273" found in this passage is _thirteen_ multiplied by _twenty-one_ , _thirteen_ signifying " _rebellion, apostasy, defection, corruption, disintegration, revolution,_ or some kindred idea" (Bullinger). As we know, _five_ (shekels) is the number for _sin_ or _grace_. When we bring our number twenty-one into this, we have the idea of _apostasy_ contrasted with _redemption_ or _grace_ for the "firstborn Israelites." The number _twenty-one_ therefore, seems to signify the _exceeding sinfulness of sin itself_ , agreeing with Matthew 24:12, an exponential increase of the fruit of our rebellious or corrupted nature of our natural man. With this in mind, consider the following passages.

Romans 5:20-21 (KJV)  
Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But **where sin abounded, grace did much more abound** : That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

If we understand _seven_ as the number for "spiritual perfection" or"manifestation," then it makes sense that _three_ of them would denote the "work" (3) which arrives at this "manifestation," whether it is life or death. As our contrast between Cain and Lamech and Peter and the Lord shows, the "exceeding sinfulness of sin" is matched by the exceeding abundance of God's grace.

At this point, let's reconsider what was presented in the very first chapter of this study. Didn't we find that Matthew gave us a key in his first chapter to the understanding of the book of the Revelation in the three fourteens or three sets of two sevens? And aren't each of these three sets of two sevens connected? What did Christ tell John in the first chapter of Revelation? "Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels (Isa. 11:1-5) of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches." Both the stars and lampstands are in the Lord's right hand, indicating His divine authority, so the seven angels are intimately connected to the seven churches, confirmed by the statements to each, "To the _angel_ of the church... write."

We also discovered that the prophecies spoken to the churches in Revelation, Chapters 2 and 3, are connected to the "seals" or "mystery" of these same prophecies. Finally, the "trumpets" and "vials" which come out of the opening of the "seals" or "mystery of God" typify what we are currently discussing, the law and its fulfillment by the life-giving Spirit of Christ. So, we could in essence say that our three fourteens are as follows.

**The Book of the Generation of Jesus Christ** (Matt. 1:1; 17; The 42nd Generation)

First Two Sevens (Fourteen) | Seven Stars and Lampstands

Second Two Sevens (Fourteen) | Seven Prophecies and Seals

Third Two Sevens (Fourteen) | Seven Trumpets and Vials

Viewed in this fashion, our 42 or six sevens becomes 21 or three sevens. So to make it clearer, let me say it like this. The seven angels or Spirits of God are "in" the Word of prophecy to each church, making it "alive" or working dynamically. But we should understand that there is but ONE Spirit of the Lord and ONE church presented in seven segments for our understanding. The ONE Spirit of the Lord unfolds as the Spirit of wisdom to the church of Ephesus, followed by the Spirit of understanding to the church of Smyrna, and so on. The seven prophecies are contained "in" the "seals" or "mystery of God" as defined in the book seen in "the right hand of Him who sat on the throne" (Rev. 5:1). In other words, the opening of the seven seals is the manifestation or fulfillment of our seven prophecies. Finally, the seven trumpets and vials are two sides of one coin, showing the judgment and vengeance that proceed out of the seven-sealed prophecies and further defined in the fifth seal, the mystery of God's grace as seen in the church and then the world. The "trumpets" and "vials" symbolize the judgment of the "house of God" (I Peter 4:17). The trumpets refer to those who "hear" and understand the need for this judgment (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22), "my servants" and "my handmaidens," while the vials show the "wrath" of God as contained in His law, "poured out" on "your sons and your daughters" (Acts 2:17-18; KJV).

Finally, 21 is half of 42, denoting both the manifestation of an increase of sin (777) and the manifestation of an increase of grace or forgiveness (777). Look once more at Romans 5:20.

Romans 5:20 (KJV)

Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But **where sin abounded, grace did much more abound**...

As we now see, our three fourteens are summed up as three important sevens which make up the content of the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ. First, the book sealed with seven seals, followed by the seven trumpets and the seven vials (bowls) which proceed out of it. Is this simply a coincidence? In light of this study, it is my opinion that the book of the Revelation and all of its frightening symbols are merely a picture of the process of how our Creator _is destroying the consciousness of the mind of form in us so that the consciousness of the mind of the formless may arise_. Look once more at our passages from Genesis where we find our three sevens.

Genesis 5:29-31 (NKJV)

And he called his name Noah, saying, "This one will comfort us concerning our work and the toil of our hands, because of the ground which the Lord has cursed." After he begot Noah, Lamech lived five hundred and ninety-five years, and had sons and daughters. So all the days of Lamech were **seven hundred and seventy-seven years** (777); and he died.

Is it just coincidence that we are told that Lamech was "seven hundred and seventy-seven years" old when he died? Is it also just coincidence that he was the father of Noah? The name "Noah" means " _rest_." And what took place on the _seventh_ day of creation? God _rested_ (Gen. 2:1-3). Hebrews 4:9 states, "There remains therefore _a rest_ for the people of God" and Hebrews 4:11 states, " _Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest_ , lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience" (NKJV).

No doubt, the most significant thing about Noah is the story of the flood, but reconsider what God said concerning Noah's time and why the flood was imminent.

Genesis 6:5-6 (KJV)

And GOD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that **every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually**. And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

Remember this passage? Doesn't it exemplify the idea of the exceeding sinfulness of sin? So connected to Lamech and Noah are three sevens which present a picture of man's rebellion and God's answer to it. With this in mind, consider the following passages.

Matthew 24:37-42 (NKJV)

But **as the days of Noah were** , so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.

Luke 17:26-27 (NKJV)

**And as it was in the days of Noah** , so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man: They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.

Revelation 12:15-16 (NKJV)

So **the serpent spewed water out of his mouth like a flood** after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood. But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth.

First, we find a flood in Genesis. Then we see a flood in Revelation. The "alpha" or beginning agrees with the "omega" or end. Jesus makes reference to "the days of Noah" and the flood in Matthew and Luke. Does this relate to the flood seen in Revelation 12:15-16? I believe it does. Would this flood represent "every imagination of the thoughts of his (man's) heart was only evil continually?" Do we not read that "the _serpent_ spewed water _out of his mouth_ like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood?" The "woman" in this passage is first seen "in heaven" in Revelation 12:1 and described as "a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars." She represents "Jerusalem above" which "is free, which is the _mother_ of us all" (Gal. 4:26; NKJV), _the New Covenant and promise in the hearts of those who persevere_ (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 26). The serpent speaks of the collective imagination of our natural man and his resistance against this covenant.

So let's be honest. Out of the power of our imagination, we have arrived at a place in the world where nothing seems out of reach, perhaps even the idea of living forever (or at least quite a bit longer than we presently do). Our recent discoveries concerning DNA, cloning, stem cells, and so on is leading us to technologies that are almost frightening in their potential. The power of the internet and other forms of communication are staggering as well, connecting the world in ways that never seemed possible just a few short years ago. Computers are in every facet of our society, holding such vast amounts of information that it simply boggles the mind to think about it. Yet, in the midst of this veritable "flood" of information and technology, the simple yet profound principle of sowing and reaping remains, unchanged after thousands of years of man's evolution. It is as relevant today as it was when it was first given to us, still in our conscience and eternal in our hearts, perfect in its execution in this realm of form in which we conduct ourselves. There can be no other explanation for this except a Creator and Presence whose superior wisdom transcends all of our attempts to explain it.

Hebrews 11:6-7 (KJV)

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. **By faith Noah** , being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.

1 Peter 3:20 (AMP)

[The souls of those] who long before in **the days of Noah** had been disobedient, when God's patience waited during the building of the ark in which a few [people], actually eight in number, were saved through water.

2 Peter 2:5 (KJV)  
And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the _eighth_ person, a **preacher of righteousness** , bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly...

As we finish this chapter, consider these passages in reference to Noah. Notice in I Peter 3:20 that we are told " _eight_ in number" and in II Peter 2:5, Noah is called "the _eighth_ person." Here is Bullinger's explanation of the spiritual meaning of _eight_.

In Hebrew the number eight is ‏שְׁמֹנֶה (Sh'moneh), from the root ‏שָׁמֵן (Shah'meyn), "to make fat," "cover with fat," "to super-abound." As a participle it means "one who abounds in strength," etc. As a noun it is "superabundant fertility," "oil," etc. So that as a numeral it is the superabundant number. As _seven_ was so called because the seventh day was the day of completion and rest, so _eight_ , as the eighth day, was over and above this perfect completion, and was indeed the _first_ of a new series, as well as being the _eighth_. Thus it already represents two numbers in one, the _first_ and _eighth_.

Also from Bullinger.

Let us now consider the number _eight by itself_. It is 7 _plus_ 1. Hence it is the number specially associated with _Resurrection_ and _Regeneration_ , and the beginning of a new era or order.

When the whole earth was covered with the flood, it was Noah "the eighth person" (2 Peter 2:5) who stepped out on to a new earth to commence a new order of things. "Eight souls" (1 Peter 3:20) passed through it with him to the new or regenerated world.

Hence, too, circumcision was to be performed on the _eighth_ day (Gen 17:12), because it was the foreshadowing of the true circumcision of the heart, that which was to be "made without hands," even "the putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ" (Col 2:11). This is connected with the new creation.

The first-born was to be given to Jehovah on the eighth day (Exo 22:29, 30). But RESURRECTION is the great truth which is signified. Christ rose from the dead on "the _first_ day of the week," that was of necessity the _eighth_ day. And it is remarkable that the Bible contains the record of _eight individual resurrections_ (other than the Lord and the saints).

As we can see, the number _eight_ gives us much to consider. As Bullinger writes, "The _firstborn_ was to be given to Jehovah on the _eighth_ day" which also typifies "the _first_ day" or _beginning_ of a new week, "hence too, _circumcision_ was to be performed on the _eighth_ day, because it was the foreshadowing of the _true circumcision_ of the heart." Just as _four_ is the number of the _first creation_ , the material or natural man, so _eight_ is the number of the _new creation_ , signifying a _new beginning_. In the _four_ , we have the _foundation of the world_ (Matt. 13:35), but in the _eight_ , we have the foundation of the world superceded by the _foundation of Christ_ (I Cor. 3:10), a blending of the two, the natural _and_ the spiritual. We move from sowing to our own flesh to sow to the Spirit.

Romans 2:28-29 (NKJV)  
For he is not a Jew who _is one_ outwardly, nor _is_ **circumcision** that which _is_ outward in the flesh; but _he is_ a Jew who _is one_ inwardly; and **circumcision** _is that_ of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise _is_ not from men but from God.

### CHAPTER FIFTEEN

The Two Covenants

2 Thessalonians 2:7-12 (NKJV)

For **the mystery of lawlessness** is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

In these passages Paul speaks of the "mystery of lawlessness" which is "already at work." This follows his explanation of the "man of sin," the "son of perdition" which we looked at earlier and defined as the natural man. Would this agree with the Lord's declaration in Matthew 24:12 and the "mystery of God" as seen in Revelation 10:7?

1 John 3:4 (NKJV)

Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and **sin is lawlessness**.

"Lawlessness" simply means to break the law and I John 3:4 confirms this. If we take a moment to consider what is written, John is not just talking about you and me committing a sin, but about the state of being of the natural man which is prone to sin at all times. As noted before, this is confirmed by Paul's description of "the man of sin" in verse 3 of II Thessalonians, Chapter 2, which refers not to a single person, but to the nature of sin found in all of us on a collective whole. _This truly is a mystery_ , for it is apparent in our present world that none of us can keep ourselves from doing those things which are considered as breaking the law. Now when I say "law," I am speaking of that which is defined as the law of God and not man, although we have found that the foundation of our laws reflect and are instituted upon God's laws.

It goes without saying that when we take the time to think about the various acts committed by humankind in general that we remain baffled by our own behavior. There seems to be a general consensus among most spiritual teachers today that there is a certain dysfunction in the human psyche that we are failing to understand yet is readily apparent to all. Scores of books have been written that address this issue from numerous angles, but the fact still remains that most of us are not getting it. We really don't know how or why we are so dysfunctional, but when we are completely honest with ourselves, we must admit that we are.

Not surprisingly, part of the answer is found within our principle of sowing and reaping. The acts of lawlessness which are so rampant today are not something that developed overnight. Rather, it is the result of what has been "sown" for many generations. Remember our exponential function. One "seed" leads to "much fruit" and much more "seed" than what we began with. Therefore, one act, one lawless deed, can affect and influence many around us, especially when it appears "good" to our present way of thinking.

I cannot stress enough the principle of sowing and reaping which Paul defined in Galatians, Chapter 6. "Do not be deceived," Paul said. Deceived about what? About the fact that the principle of sowing and reaping works exactly as intended. "Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" (Gal. 6:7; NKJV). The evidence is all around us. What is happening now is a result of previous generations. Like bringing water to a boil, the lawlessness of past generations has led to the intensity that we see today.

Now, consider verse 11. "And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness." The King James Version of this passage reads "a lie," but both the New King James and the New International Version read "the lie." When we consider it this way, then what would be seen as any lie would have to be seen as a particular or a specific lie. When I thought of this in the light of sowing and reaping, I realized what "the lie" may be. It is found in Genesis, Chapter 3, and is _the first lie recorded in the Bible_ , spoken by the serpent to Eve.

Genesis 3:1-4 (NKJV)

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'you shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.' Then the serpent said to the woman, ' **You will not surely die**.'"

Notice first how the serpent begins with what we might call a "half-truth." "Has God indeed said, 'you shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?" Yes He did, however in Genesis 2:16 we read, "And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, " _Of every tree of the garden_ you may freely eat; _but_ of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." So first we have a lie of omission, the serpent leaving out the second half of God's command to Adam. Following the woman's reply, we see the serpent saying to the woman, "You will not surely die." This statement is in direct contradiction to what God said, an obvious lie. When we compare this with what Paul tells us concerning sowing and reaping, then "you will not surely die" equates to the idea that when we sow to the flesh, _we believe we will not reap corruption_ , the passing away of what is temporary.

So let's consider a lie. It begins with one person, then through the power of persuasion and perhaps ignorance, this lie spreads to a hundred people and they believe it to be truth. Is it still a lie? Of course. What if it spreads to a thousand people? Or even a hundred thousand people? Is it still a lie? Yes, it is. You see, it doesn't matter how many believe it to be true, it remains a lie. And so goes the "collective" power of a "strong delusion." So we read, "And for this reason God will send them _strong delusion_ , that they should believe the lie, that they all may be _condemned_ who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness" (II Thess. 2:11-12; NKJV). Our word "condemned" is actually "judge." And how are we judged? By the law of sowing and reaping. So as we continue to sow to our flesh, we continue to reap corruption. No matter how much we think it doesn't happen, it does, and the suffering which comes as a result, becomes the means by which we are eventually humbled. No wonder Albert Einstein said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

The lie of the serpent in Genesis is the lie of the serpent in Revelation. What was a lie in the beginning is still a lie in the end. Within the concept of sowing and reaping, what you plant is what you harvest; it cannot be otherwise.

Matthew 7:16 (NKJV)

You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?

You cannot "gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles," and you cannot reap apples from orange seeds. It's impossible. And when we plant a lie, regardless of how much we think it to be truth, it will not return anything but what it is; a lie.

We harvest what we plant. And this harvest doesn't come overnight or all at once. It takes time. For this reason the exponential function sheds light on our current societal position today. What we are suffering now in this present generation has been working in our minds and hearts for many generations.

Matthew 15:6 (NKJV)

Thus **you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition**.

Mark 7:13 (NKJV)

... **making the word of God of no effect through your tradition** which you have handed down. And many such things you do."

Over time, and due to the tremendous power of our imagination, we have managed to replace truth with tradition, "making the word of God of no effect." In agreement with our exponential function, _tradition_ means, "a handing down or on" (Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words). In other words, it is not always truth which is passed from one generation to the next, but our misconception of it. No wonder Jesus, speaking to the religious leaders of His time, stated, "Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: 'These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. And in vain they worship me, _teaching as doctrines the commandments of men_ '" (Matt. 15:7-9; NKJV). Keep in mind that Jesus was not talking to the Roman citizens of His time, but to His own people who so fervently embraced their traditions in conjunction with the law. This change of the "word of God" is illustrated and symbolized by the following passages in Revelation, Chapter 11.

Revelation 11:7-8 (NKJV)

When they (the two witnesses) finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit **will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them**. And **their dead bodies shall lie in the street** of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

Like our subjects, the mark of the beast and the antichrist, there has been a lot of speculation concerning the "two witnesses." But I believe these two witnesses to be what we have considered; the Law (1) and the Prophets (2). Consider the following description of the two witnesses in Revelation 11:6.

Revelation 11:6 (NKJV)

These (two witnesses) **have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues** , as often as they desire.

The reference to "no rain" points to Elijah the prophet in I Kings, Chapter 17 and 18, and to the following passage from James.

James 5:17-18 (NKJV)

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; **and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months**. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.

First, we have a reference to Elijah the prophet, _indicative of all the prophets_. It's also interesting to note that the reference to "three years and six months" correlates with our "forty and two months" seen in Revelation 11:2. The reference to turning the waters to blood and the plagues relate to _the story of Moses and the exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt_. It was, of course, Moses, to _whom the law was delivered_. So in Revelation 11:6, _both the law and the prophets are signified_. Remember the idea of "prophets" denotes the promise, for it was declared by them (Jer. 31:31-34).

Revelation 11:3-4 (NKJV)

And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy **one thousand two hundred and sixty days** , clothed in sackcloth." These are the **two olive trees** and the **two lampstands** standing before the God of the earth.

Here we are told that the "two witnesses" are "the two olive trees and the two lampstands." Don't we have two "trees" described in the Garden of Eden? And haven't we defined them as representative of the law and the promise, the sowing and reaping of the flesh and spirit? The fact that they are "olive" trees speak of the "anointing" of the Spirit of truth which gives the "illumination" or "light" or life of these two covenants in our existence, hence the reason we also read "the two lampstands" (see also Zechariah, Chapter 4, and Romans, Chapter 11). God does not anoint man, but always His Word _in_ man. Remember that John wrote, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word _was_ God" (John 1:1; KJV). The Word of His two covenants "is God," residing over and working in both the natural and spiritual being of our existence.

We have already seen that the "beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit" is synonymous with the beast that rises out of the sea in Revelation, Chapter 13, and refers to the imaginations of the thoughts of people's hearts being evil continually (Gen. 6:5), the collective power and influence of the natural man. These imaginations "make war against them, overcome them, and kill them," not in a physical sense, but in the same fashion as Jesus stated in Matthew 15:6 and Mark 7:13. When the "commandment" and "word of God" is made of "no effect," then in a sense it is "dead" (Rev. 3:1). So we read, "And their _dead bodies_ (Rev. 3:1) will lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified." The reference to the "great city" leads to the following passages.

Revelation 14:8 (NKJV)

And another angel followed, saying, "Babylon is fallen, is fallen, **that great city** , because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication."

Revelation 17:3-5 (NKJV)

So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast which was full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

Revelation 17:18 (NKJV)

And the woman whom you saw **is that great city** which reigns over the kings of the earth."

As shown, the "great city" is the "woman" who sits on "a scarlet beast" called "Babylon the great, the mother of harlots and of the abominations of the earth." The "scarlet beast" with "seven heads and ten horns" is the same "beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit" in Revelation 11:7, the "great, fiery red dragon" of Revelation 12:3 and the "beast rising up out of the sea" in Revelation 13:1-8. All of these symbols are synonymous and represent the same thing that we have considered in Nebuchadnezzar's dream; the four metals, seven body parts, and ten toes agreeing with the four features of the beast, the seven heads, and the ten horns (Rev. 12:3; 13:1-2; 17:3).

The phrase "kings of the earth" points to the four "kingdoms" (also signified by the lion, bear, leopard, and dragon) and the understanding which we have considered throughout this study. It is the foundation of the world which forms the natural man of our being in every person who enters this earthly plane.

Revelation 18:7 (NKJV)

In the measure that she glorified herself and lived luxuriously, in the same measure give her torment and sorrow; for she says in her heart, **'I sit as queen** , and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.'

We began our study with Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, the "head of gold" of the image called a "king of kings" by Daniel (Dan. 2:37). Here we find Babylon, who "says in her heart, 'I sit as _queen_ , and am no widow, and will not see sorrow.'"

Revelation 17:14 (KJV)

**These shall make war with the Lamb** , and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

Revelation 19:11, 13, 16 (NKJV)

Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and **in righteousness He judges and makes war**. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and **His name is called The Word of God**. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

1 Corinthians 11:3 (KJV)

But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

Jeremiah 31:31-32 (NKJV)

"Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah-- not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, **though I was a husband to them** , says the Lord.

Why did Daniel call Nebuchadnezzar a "king of kings?" If we compare this phrase with our passages from Revelation, we find the "Lamb" (Christ), the Spirit and "Word of God" also defined as a "king of kings." And isn't Christ "the head of every man?" As Jeremiah shows, when the Lord God made a covenant with Moses and Israel after He led them out of Egypt, we read, "I was a _husband_ to them." Would it not be appropriate then to consider that Nebuchadnezzar, spoken of as a "king of kings" and responsible for bringing the Kingdom of Judah under bondage to his own empire typifies the male component or "sowing" of the Spirit and Word of the Old Covenant and the law under which our natural man is brought into the "bondage of corruption" (Rom. 8:21)? Note how we are told in Revelation 19, that Christ "is called the Word of God," that He is "king of kings" and that "in righteousness (7th Spirit) He judges and makes war." Like Nebuchadnezzar of old, the principle of sowing and reaping is more than adequate to judge us and create the conflict in our being necessary to lead us to life.

Now, when we come to the book of Revelation, in comparison with the _male_ component, we find a "great city" presented as a _female_ component. As King, Nebuchadnezzar signifies our male component. His kingdom or "great city" over which he ruled signifies the female component. For this reason, we see the female counterpart saying in her heart, "I sit as queen." This speaks of those who have received (female) the "mark" in the "right hand" or "forehead." From whom did she receive it? The king, the _male_ or _husband_ , denoting a _union_ and _agreement_ or _covenant_ , which points to our Creator as seen in Jeremiah 31:32. And what is the mark? The law of God that is necessary for our natural being. And who receives it? It is everyone as shown in Revelation 13:16 and Romans 3:19. So those who make up the "great city" speaks of everyone who agrees that the law is the means by which we should conduct themselves. So to be clear, the "mark" speaks of the law which came out of the Old Covenant, whereas the "great city," Babylon, refers to the Old Covenant itself and those under it, specifically the natural man in everyone. As we will see in a moment, all we are considering is confirmed by Paul in Galatians, Chapter 4.

The description of Babylon, the "great city," through Chapters 17, 18 and 19 of Revelation leaves no doubt that it is the "great city" of Revelation 11:8, which is spiritually called "Sodom (female; fornication; harlots; I Kings 14:24; II Kings 16:3; Jude 1:7) and Egypt (male; abominations of the earth; Lev. 18:27; Deut. 18:9-12; 29:16-18)." Now, let's consider what Paul presents to us in Galatians, Chapter 4, regarding the two covenants and how it confirms our perspective.

Galatians 4:21-31 (NKJV)

Tell me, **you who desire to be under the law** , do you not hear the law? For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman **was born according to the flesh** , and **he of the freewoman through promise** , _which things are symbolic_. **For these are the two covenants** : the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar--for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to **Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children** \--but the **Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all**. For it is written: "Rejoice, O barren, you who do not bear! Break forth and shout, you who are not in labor! For the desolate has many more children than she who has a husband." Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. But, as **he who was born according to the flesh** then persecuted him who was **born according to the Spirit** , _even so it is now_. Nevertheless what does the Scripture say? "Cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman." So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free.

Here our two covenants are symbolized by Abraham's wives, Sarah and Hagar, so Paul begins his passages with, "Tell me, _you who desire to be under the law_ , do you not hear the law? For it is written that Abraham had two sons." To be clear, Paul is writing to those who wish to be "under the law" and it's actually the "sons" or "children" who are "'born" of these covenants which are the subject. And it cannot be coincidence that our presentation agrees with the principle of sowing and reaping, one son "born according to the flesh" and the other "born according to the Spirit" (Gal. 6:8). Doesn't this agree with our understanding of Cain and Abel?

As Paul shows, the Old Covenant and law "gives birth to bondage," but out of "Jerusalem above," the New Covenant and promise, is born "children of promise." Note that Paul writes, "For this Hagar _is Mount Sinai in Arabia_ , and corresponds to _Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage_ (18; three sixes) with her children." Isn't Jerusalem a city? So could this mean that the "great city," Babylon, speaks of "Jerusalem which now is?" Isn't this confirmed by the fact that she, along with her children, are in bondage? Remember, it was the Lord who gave "Jehoiakim king of Judah" into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar, therefore the physical bondage of the Jews reflects the spiritual bondage of the law under which we remain until such time as we enter into Christ because "the Scripture has confined _all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe_. But before faith came, _we were kept under guard by the law_ , kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. _Therefore the law was our tutor_ to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, _we are no longer under a tutor_. For you are all _sons_ of God through faith in Christ Jesus" (Gal. 3:22-26; NKJV). Nebuchadnezzar, along with our female counterpart in Revelation, is symbolic of the natural man "under guard by the law" and Old Covenant until the promise of the New Covenant becomes a reality in the spiritual man.

Revelation 12:1-2 (KJV)

And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; **a woman clothed with the sun** , and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars: And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

In agreement with the two covenants symbolized by the two wives of Abraham, we find another woman in Revelation who correlates with "Jerusalem above" shown as the "woman clothed with the sun" who appears "in heaven" or _above_. We are also told that she is "with child" and "pained to be delivered." This agrees with Galatians, Chapter 4; the two women or two covenants and the "children" born from them.

Revelation 12:6 (KJV)

And the woman fled **into the wilderness**...

Revelation 17:3 (KJV)

So he carried me away in the spirit **into the wilderness** : and **I saw a woman** sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.

If we continue with our passages in Revelation, Chapter 12, we find that the "woman clothed with the sun" gives birth to a male son. We then read, "And the woman fled _into the wilderness_." Compare this with Revelation 17:3 and the fact that John was taken by "the spirit _into the wilderness_ " where he sees the woman, "that great city," "Babylon the great." Is the woman clothed with the sun the "Babylon" seen in the wilderness? They are, and we realize this when we understand that _the two covenants are joined_ , the New Covenant and Promise being the realization of the Old Covenant and Law which is put into our minds and written into our hearts (Heb. 8:10). For this reason, we see in Genesis 3:20, that Adam "called his wife's name Eve (life-giver); because she was _the mother of all living_." Symbolically, the two covenants typified by Hagar and Sarah are seen as one in Eve, in the one woman or "wife," for through her came both the "natural body" (Cain) and the "spiritual body" (Abel). We might think of it in this fashion. When Eve gave birth to Cain and Abel, she brought their "flesh and blood" into this world, but the spirit of man which gives life to this flesh and blood comes from the Spirit of our Creator (Job 32:8; Prov. 20:27; Ecc. 3:21; Zech. 12:1). So the human form is brought into the world in order for the spiritual form to be "breathed" into it, that which is called the "breath of life" in Genesis 2:7. Thus Eve was the "mother" of both, of "all living."

1 Corinthians 15:50 (KJV)

Now this I say, brethren, that **flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God** ; neither doth **corruption inherit incorruption**.

When Paul wrote that "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God," I believe his meaning was twofold and agrees with our current perspective. Unlike a natural kingdom, no one can inherit the kingdom of God by fleshly lineage or bloodline as was true of natural Israel. This ended with the 42nd generation of Christ. Secondly, and much more important to understand—our natural man cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Why? Because the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom reserved for the spiritual man. The natural man cannot receive the things of the Spirit of God because his priority is "flesh and blood," in other words, _identification with form_.

John 3:3-8 (NKJV)

Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, **unless one is born again** , he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? **Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born**?" Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. **That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit**. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."

The phrase "born again" is made up of two Greek words. The word "born" is _gennaō_ and is defined as "to _procreate_ (properly of the father, but by extension of the mother); figurative to _regenerate_." The word "again" is _anōthen_ and actually means " _from above_ " which agrees with the understanding of "Jerusalem _above_." Look again at Nicodemus' questions. "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" The answer is _yes, when_ we realize that our "mother's womb" is "Jerusalem above," indicative of the New Covenant Promise of God that produces "children of promise."

"That which is born of the flesh is flesh," Jesus said. This is our natural man, the corruptible part of our being that _cannot_ inherit the kingdom of God. "That which is born of the Spirit is spirit." This is the spiritual man, the incorruptible part of our being which _can_ inherit the kingdom of God. No wonder Paul wrote, "But though our _outward man_ perish, yet the _inward man_ is renewed day by day" (II Cor. 4:16; KJV). This tells us that in each of us lies the potential for this inheritance and that something far greater than what we presently understand has been working within us for a very long time. And though we may try to separate one another in this process, we cannot, for God alone knows all the intricacies of its working.

Revelation 17:1 (NKJV)

Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, "Come, I will show you **the judgment of the great harlot** who sits on many waters...

Revelation 16:1 (NKJV)

Then I heard a loud voice from the temple saying to the seven angels, " **Go and pour out the bowls of the wrath of God** on the earth."

Romans 4:14-15 (NKJV)

For **if those who are of the law are heirs** , faith is made void and the promise made of no effect, because **the law brings about wrath** ; for where there is no law there is no transgression.

The law or wrath of God, is seen in our first segment of the principle of sowing and reaping, for Paul writes, "the _law_ brings about _wrath_." This explains "the _judgment_ of the great harlot who sits on many waters," confirming that it represents "Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children," those "who desire to be under the law," which in turn works "wrath." John tells us plainly that "The waters which you saw, where the harlot sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations, and tongues" (Rev. 17:15; NKJV), in other words, the natural being in everyone under the auspices of the Old Covenant and the law. This is why Paul wrote, "Now we know that whatever the law says, _it says to those who are under the law,_ that _every mouth_ may be stopped, and _all the world_ may become guilty before God" (Rom. 3:19; NKJV). Who is "under the law" and "guilty before God?" "Every mouth" and "all the world," Paul says. As we have learned, this is due to the principle of sowing and reaping which all of us are subject to.

It is with good reason that we see "seven bowls" in Revelation 17:1 which are actually introduced and described to us in Revelation, Chapters 15 and 16. These seven bowls hold the oil and wick for each of the seven branches of the candlestick and signify the "anointed" Word, the _spiritual perfection_ or _totality_ and _manifestation_ of _the fulfilling of the law_ , of all that is needed for the discipline of our natural man (Exod. 25:31-40; 37:17-24; 13:9; Numbers 8:1-4; Psalms 1:2; 19:7; 119:1).

Matthew 5:17-19 (NKJV)

" **Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill**. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

The spiritual meaning of the number _seven_ and our word "fulfilled" in Matthew 5:18 agree with the _seven_ "bowls of the wrath of God on the earth" seen in Revelation 16:1. Again, this speaks of the _spiritual perfection_ (7) of the law which is necessary for our natural man "till all is fulfilled" (7). No wonder then that _seven_ also points to the "rest" of God, for the process of sowing and reaping is all that is needed for our Father to accomplish His work in us. When we truly come to realize and experience this, then our conflict is over and we enter into peace (Rom. 5:1-5), into the rest of God that allows us to walk in love and "fulfill" the law (Rom. 13:10; Heb. 4:1-11).

Galatians 3:21-25 (NKJV)

**Is the law then against the promises of God?** Certainly not! **For if there had been a law given which could have given** _life_ **, truly** _righteousness_ **would have been by the law**. But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.

"Is the law then against the promises of God?" Paul asks. "Certainly not!" he replies, for "before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor." This plainly shows that the law is absolutely necessary for everyone as a "tutor" or instructor until we are brought to the dynamic essence of Christ, the reality of the presence of God. Notice too how Paul equates "life" as "righteousness." Eternal life is defined as righteousness, a right relationship to all things.

Isaiah 1:1, 21 (NKJV)

The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. **How the faithful city has become a harlot!** It was full of justice; righteousness lodged in it, but now murderers.

It may seem out of character to consider "Jerusalem which now is" as the "Babylon" or "great harlot" of Revelation, but when we consider our passages from Isaiah, Chapter 1, we find the Lord Himself, making the declaration that, "How the faithful city (Jerusalem) _has become a harlot_!" If we read further in Isaiah, Chapter 1, it becomes clear that this is said because God's people had rebelled against Him. This tells us that despite our resistance, God does not forsake His people, but simply allows the law of sowing and reaping to do its work until such time that we are humbled by the consequences of our own actions. Because the law remains as our instructor, our suffering due to disobedience becomes the means by which we learn obedience (Heb. 5:8). This shows that the "judgment of the great harlot" of Revelation is necessary and exemplifies the love that God has for us. As the Father of our spirits, He cannot nor will He allow us to continue in our resistance to His divine principles. Remember, God chastens whom He loves and "all have become partakers" (Heb. 12:8; NKJV).

I will be the first to admit that the symbolism pictured in Revelation relating to the judgment of Babylon seems harsh, but there are certain things we must consider. First of all, we have misunderstood what the symbols represent due to our pride and self-righteousness. To put it plainly, we don't see ourselves as the "Babylon" of Revelation, so we accuse those we think are. Then we introduce erroneous teachings such as "eternal torment" into this same picture and project a much skewed perspective of a God who says He loves us. We undermine the sacrifice of His Son on the cross, excluding those who don't align themselves with our beliefs. Christ did not reconcile the church, _He reconciled the world_ , and His sacrificial act runs far deeper and much more spiritual in its fulfillment than any of us truly realize. And all of this was done in accordance with God's divine purpose. Christ's obedience was perfect and accomplished exactly what the Father intended. No wonder the word "Babylon" is rooted in the word which means "confusion." When we are wholly moved by our natural man under the law, we do not see nor realize what our Creator has purposed.

Secondly, extreme problems require extreme measures, but even in this our Creator's love is apparent. Our suffering or reaping of what we sow is never without purpose. It is a constant reminder that this world of form is only temporary; that we are not here to remain as a natural creation but to evolve into a spiritual being.

Philippians 3:3-7 (NKJV)

For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh, though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he may have confidence in the flesh, I more so: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.

There's no doubt that Paul was the perfect candidate to write most of the letters of the New Testament. "Concerning the righteousness which is in the law," he called himself "blameless." Yet after his conversion, he tells us "what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ." Paul understood that "if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void and the promise made of no effect." Paul understood that the tradition which he had so strongly embraced as a Pharisee was now null and void through his faith in Christ. For this reason he spent much of his time writing about the contrast between the law and the promise. So again we read in Romans 4:14, "For if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void and the promise made of no effect." This emphasizes our "dead bodies" in Revelation 11:8, for when the promise is made of no effect then the law follows, for it is the foundation of the promise. In comparison, we read, "Do we then _make void_ the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, _we establish the law_ " (Rom. 3:31; NKJV).

The Lord made it clear that He did not come to destroy the law or the prophets, "but to fulfill," His love for the Father and His fellow man evident in all that He did. This self-sacrifice is the "second death" in which all of us have a "part" (Rev. 21:8), the "lake of fire" that exposes and consumes the mind that is set on form. "And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire" (Rev. 20:15; KJV). Why? Because despite what our natural man thinks, God's grace and goodness are found in His judgment. By law and by faith, by the flesh and by spirit, His creation is reconciled (II Cor. 5:18-19); the natural man and the spiritual man are accounted for. If we do not inherit the kingdom of God in this life, then we die "under the law" and are reconciled through the sacrifice of Christ. If we inherit the kingdom of God while in this life, then we come to know the righteousness, peace and joy it truly brings.

2 Corinthians 5:14-21 (NKJV)

For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that **if One died for all, then all died** ; and **He died for all** , that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, **who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ** , and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that **God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself** , _not imputing their trespasses to them_ , and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Christ died "for all," the entire world. Note that Paul said, "Now all things are of God, _who has reconciled us to Himself_ through Jesus Christ." This is _past tense_ , in other words, it was accomplished by and through our Creator and remains a fact of our existence. It is not something that _will_ be done, but _has_ been done. We cannot improve or change it in any fashion; it is perfect in its design and accomplishment. "God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them." Who is "them?" The world. Part of this "word of reconciliation" then is to understand and realize that reconciliation was accomplished apart from us by the Father and through His Son, Christ Jesus. I must emphasize again that _man's faith in this is not required_ , for what was done was accomplished by the Father and the Son, exclusive from anyone else. What Christ did was for the benefit of all mankind, but it was He alone who did it in obedience to His Father. His sacrifice brought redemption for all mankind, and this despite our acknowledgment or rejection of it.

Galatians 3:7-9 (NKJV)

Therefore know that **only those who are of faith** are sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles (nations) by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, "In you all the nations shall be blessed." So then **those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham**.

When we don't believe something that is true, it doesn't change the fact that it is still true. This is why I say that our faith in God's purpose is not required. However, when we don't believe it, we miss the _blessing_ that comes from doing so. "So then _those who are of faith are blessed_ with believing Abraham."

The word "reconciled" in verse 18 means "to _change mutually_ , i.e. (figurative) to _compound_ a difference." And what is this "difference?" Would it be the carnal mind of our natural man in "enmity (hostility) against God," in resistance to our own spiritual essence within? Don't we first need to settle the problem inside before it becomes evident outwardly? The New Covenant is clear in showing us that it is our mind and heart that needs to be changed (Heb. 8:10). And how is this accomplished? By the principle of sowing and reaping. Inasmuch as we have known and experienced the first segment of this principle, it is vital that we know and experience the second segment. We must be transformed from the system of "buy and sell" to the essence of "give and receive."

Revelation 13:1-2 (NKJV)

Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a **beast rising up out of the sea** , having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name. Now the beast which I saw was like a leopard, his feet were like the feet of a bear, and his mouth like the mouth of a lion. The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.

Revelation 17:1-5 (NKJV)

Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and talked with me, saying to me, "Come, I will show you the judgment of **the great harlot who sits on many waters** , with whom **the kings of the earth** committed fornication, and **the inhabitants of the earth** were made drunk with the wine of her fornication." So he carried me away in the Spirit into the wilderness. And I saw **a woman sitting on a scarlet beast** which was full of names of blasphemy, having **seven heads** and **ten horns**. The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls, having in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the filthiness of her fornication. And on her forehead a name was written: MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

Revelation 19:19 (NKJV)

And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army.

Mystery, Babylon the Great

(Jerusalem Which Now Is; The Old Covenant and the Law)

Scarlet Beast with Seven Heads and Ten Horns

(Kings of the Earth/Inhabitants of the Earth (Armies; Rev. 19:19))

1. Lion - Gold - Head - 1st Head of the Beast

2. Bear - Silver - Breast and Arms - 2nd and 3rd Head of the Beast

3. Leopard - Brass - Belly and Thighs - 4th and 5th Head of the Beast

4. Dragon – Iron, Iron and Clay - Legs and Feet - 6th and 7th Head of the Beast

5. Dragon – Iron and Clay - Ten Toes - Ten Horns

If we understand that the beast with seven heads and ten horns is simply another symbolism agreeing with our presentation of the natural man of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, then we can better understand our preceding passages concerning Babylon. Note how the four features of the beast, the lion, bear, leopard, and dragon, correlate with the gold, silver, brass, and iron of Nebuchadnezzar's image. Since Nebuchadnezzar was a "king _of_ kings," and preceded the other three which followed, then we see that the "kings of the earth" speaks of the four "sovereign" components that we have presented throughout this study; the _four_ elements that define _the foundation of the world_ or natural being in all of us that ends in _death, the temporary nature and life of the soul or self_. Also notice how the body parts agree with the number of heads on the beast and the "ten toes" match with the "ten horns."

So what does the seven heads possibly represent? Please consider.

Proverbs 6:16-19 (KJV)

These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, **seven** are an abomination unto him: A proud look (1), a lying tongue (2), and hands that shed innocent blood (3), an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations (4), feet that be swift in running to mischief (5), a false witness that speaketh lies (6), and **he that soweth discord among brethren** ( **7** ).

Remember our passages from Proverbs, Chapter 6? Is it simply a coincidence that what the Lord hates is summed up in " _six_ things," the number of man in opposition to Christ, and that " _seven_ , the number of _fullness_ and _manifestation_ , "are an abomination unto Him?" Also remember that the sixth thing named, "a false witness that speaketh lies," _is the culmination of the first five, it is what we are, while the seventh thing or "manifestation," is what we do_. What makes us a "false witness" is the fact that we sow "discord among brethren."

If we will be completely honest, the description we have just considered aptly describes the condition of humankind in our present generation. All around us the pride of the self is evident and seen in the "works of the flesh" enumerated in Galatians 5:19-21. Many of these same "works" have found their way into our religions as evidenced by the fact that there are so many divisions among us due to doctrinal differences and long-standing traditional boundaries. It is all too clear that there is "discord" yet most of us never really consider it.

It is with good reason that Babylon sits on the back of the beast with seven heads and ten horns, symbolizing the fact that the judgment of God issues from the law of God and again, resides over the natural man of our being, regardless of culture. We are told in no uncertain terms that Babylon " _is that great city, which reigns over the kings of the earth_ " (Rev. 17:18; Gal. 4:24-25; NKJV). This indicates Jerusalem's position above all other "cities," for _it is the city which God chose to place His name_ (I Kings 11:36). For this reason, we find the word "Jerusalem" derived from two words. The first is _yārâ_ , meaning, "to _flow_ as water (i.e. to _rain_ ); transitive to _lay_ or _throw_ (especially an arrow, i.e. to _shoot_ ); figurative to _point_ out (as if by _aiming_ the finger), to _teach_." The second is _shālēm_ and means, "to _be safe_ (in mind, body or estate); figurative to _be_ (causative _make_ ) _completed_ ; by implication to _be friendly_ ; by extension to _reciprocate_ (in various applications)." Not surprisingly, this second word is also translated as "end," "finish" and "full," containing the _spiritual essence_ of the number _seven_ in its rendering. We are, of course, speaking of the spiritual construct of the Old Covenant and law and the New Covenant and Promise, and of those who are called out, for that is what the word "church" really means. And what is it that we are called out from? Would it not be the spirit and mind of our natural man as described in our passages from Proverbs? So it is that this spiritual work takes place throughout the world in people and cultures everywhere. Not for a moment do I believe that it is restricted to the man-made boundaries that we have devised between ourselves. Our religious labels do not prevent the work of the living Word in the minds and hearts of people all over the world. Sowing and reaping pertains to every living creature.

In confirmation of the fact that the work of God encompasses everyone, it was one of the seven angels who told John, "Come, I will show you the judgment of the great harlot who sits on _many waters_." The phrase "many waters" is symbolic of a diversity of people, of their culture and language (see Rev. 1:15; 7:17; John 4:5-14; 7:38). We then read, "So he carried me away in the Spirit into the _wilderness_." The word "wilderness" is defined by the Strong's Concordance as " _lonesome_ , i.e. (by implication) _waste_ (usually as a noun, G5561 (chora) being implied)." The word _chōra_ reads, "through the idea of _empty_ expanse; _room_ , i.e. a space of _territory_ (more or less extensive; often including its inhabitant)." This word "wilderness" is the same Greek word used in the following passages.

Matthew 23:37-38 (NKJV)

" **O Jerusalem, Jerusalem** , the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! See! Your house is left to you **desolate**...

The word "desolate" in verse 38 is the same word as "wilderness" in Revelation 17:3, so when we read that the "woman fled into the wilderness" in Revelation 12:6, what is signified is "Jerusalem which now is" being left "desolate" as Jesus stated. No wonder Paul wrote, "In that he saith, a new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which _decayeth_ and _waxeth_ old is ready to vanish away" (Heb. 8:13). It's interesting to note that our word "decayeth" means, "to _make_ (passive _become_ ) _worn out_ , or _declare obsolete_ " and our phrase "waxeth old" means, "to _be senescent_ ," (see Rom. 6:6; "old man"). This confirms our interpretation of "Babylon, the great" as "Jerusalem which now is," our natural being or self "under the law." Note also that Jesus says of Jerusalem, "the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her!" Compare this with Revelation 17:6.

Revelation 17:6 (NKJV)

I saw the woman, **drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus**. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement.

Revelation 17:2 (KJV)  
With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth **have been made drunk** with **the wine of her fornication**.

1 Thessalonians 5:7 (KJV)  
For they that sleep sleep in the night; and **they that be drunken are drunken in the night**.

In Revelation 17:6, the word "blood" is defined as, "of uncertain derivative; _blood_ , literal (of men and animals), figurative (the _juice_ of grapes) or special (the atoning _blood_ of Christ); by implication _bloodshed_ , also _kindred_." So we could say that "the _blood_ of the saints" and "the _blood_ of the martyrs of Jesus" correlates with "the _wine_ of her fornication." Our phrase "they that be drunken are drunken in the night" is a contrast between those who are "children of the day" (I Thess. 5:5) and those who are "of the night" and "of darkness." The word "drunk" means "to _drink_ to _intoxication_ , i.e. _get drunk_." Consider the following passages.

Revelation 14:8 (KJV)  
And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because **she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication**.

Revelation 14:9-10 (KJV)  
And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive _his_ mark in his forehead, or in his hand, **the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God**...

Revelation 18:3 (KJV)  
For **all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication**...

To say it plainly, the "wine" is symbolic of the "blood" of the saints and martyrs of Jesus and Paul made it clear that "almost all things are _by the law purged with blood_ ; and without shedding of blood is no remission" (Heb. 9:22; KJV). If we read the 9th Chapter of Hebrews, we will find that both covenants were "dedicated" or "inaugurated" _by blood_ , the first covenant by the blood of animals and the second through the blood of Christ. In confirmation, note that in Revelation 14:10 we read, "wine of the _wrath of God_." And what brings wrath? It is the law (Rom. 4:15; NIV). So the "wrath of her fornication" speaks of the "wrath of God" as defined by the Old Covenant and the law under which all of us reside. And due to the ongoing work of the law in this world, most of us have become "drunk," intoxicated if you will, and confused about the purpose of God that is working in our midst. For this reason, the word "Babylon" itself comes from the root word which means " _confusion_."

Now, let's go back to our word "desolate" and consider it in light of the following.

Revelation 17:16 (NKJV)

And the ten horns which you saw on the beast, these will **hate the harlot** , **make her desolate** and naked, eat her flesh and burn her with fire.

Aren't the "ten horns" the same as the "ten toes" of Nebuchadnezzar's dream? And didn't we find that the iron and clay seen in the ten toes signify the push of our own will in our natural state that is restricted by the law? So we read that these "ten horns" will "hate the harlot." Consider the following.

Romans 7:15-16 (NIV)  
I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, **but what I hate I do**. And if I do what I do not want to do, **I agree that the law is good**.

The mind of the natural man is the carnal mind which is "against God" (Rom. 8:7), resistant to the Old Covenant and law which we have been made subject to regardless. For this reason Paul tells us, "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but _what I hate_ I do." Would this be what it means to " _hate_ the harlot," which is symbolic of the Old Covenant and the law? So Paul follows with, "And if I do what I do not want to do, _I agree that the law is good_." Is this why Paul wrote, "For the creature," humankind, "was made subject to vanity" (the formation of our natural man), " _not willingly_ " (we were designed this way), "but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption," i.e. the natural body under the Old Covenant and the law, "into the glorious liberty of the children of God," i.e. the spiritual body under the New Covenant and the promise (Rom. 8:20-21; KJV)? Is humankind slowly evolving in the direction of an awakening, destined to arrive at a place where it is no longer necessary to be restricted by the law of the Old Covenant?

Not surprisingly, our resistance creates our own spiritual desolation or "wilderness" through which we pass, our "day of temptation" as reflected in the journey of the children of Israel out of Egypt (Hebrews, Chapter 3).

Galatians 4:27 (NKJV)

For it is written: "Rejoice, O barren, you who do not bear! Break forth and shout, you who are not in labor! For the **desolate** (lonesome, waste, wilderness) has many more children than she who has a husband."

Isaiah 54:1 (NKJV)

"Sing, O barren, you who have not borne! Break forth into singing, and cry aloud, you who have not labored with child! For more are the children of the **desolate** than the children of the married woman," says the Lord.

In Galatians, Chapter 4, we see that Paul's statement in verse 27 was a prophecy spoken by Isaiah. Paul stated, "For the _desolate_ has many more children than she who has a husband," the "desolate" referring to Hagar or "Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to _Jerusalem which now is_." In Paul's time, these were the Jews who had descended from Abraham, which in our time now points to everyone and their natural being "under the law." Paul confirms this in the following passages.

Romans 2:17-29 (NKJV)

Indeed you are called a Jew, **and rest on the law** , and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, **being instructed out of the law** , and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, **having the form of knowledge and truth in the law**. You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? **You who make your boast in the law** , do you dishonor God through breaking the law? For "the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," as it is written. For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision? And will not the physically uncircumcised, if he fulfills the law, judge you who, even with your written code and circumcision, are a transgressor of the law? **For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.**

Who better than Paul would understand his own heritage and the history of his own people? Yet, he made it clear that "he is not a Jew who is one _outwardly_ , nor is _circumcision_ that which is _outward in the flesh_ ; but he is a Jew who is one _inwardly_ ; and _circumcision_ is that of the heart, in the spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God." Circumcision was _the sign of the covenants_ which began with Abraham (Gen. 17:1-14) and then the nation of Israel and which now includes all people (Gentiles/nations). And what began as a natural law and covenant is now becoming evident as a spiritual work within.

Galatians 5:13-18 (NKJV)

For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For **all the law is fulfilled in one word** , even in this: " **You shall love your neighbor as yourself**." But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Paul sums up the work of Christ and the "circumcision" of "the heart, in the spirit, not in the letter." "For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" He then tells us, "But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law." It is apparent then that until we are truly led by the Spirit, we must remain under the law.

### CHAPTER SIXTEEN

The Parable of the Sower

Revelation 16:15 (KJV)

**Behold, I come as a thief**. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.

In Revelation, Chapter 16, we found the bowls of "the wrath of God" poured out "upon the earth" (Rev. 16:1; KJV), seeing that this "wrath" is exemplified in the law (letter) and the prophets (the fulfilling of the law; Spirit). We also discovered that the seventh seal, trumpet, and bowl represent _the manifestation or fullness of the other six which precede them_. When we come to the statement above, it follows the pouring out of the sixth bowl (Rev. 16:12).

Consider this simple analogy about "fulfilled" or "fulfilling." We take an empty glass and pour six portions of water into it. Once we've done this, the glass is filled to the top, there is no room left; it's now full. The seventh is the full glass itself. This is the spiritual meaning of the number seven. When seven is reached, the other six are now in place and "fullness" is accomplished. This is why the number "666" signifies the "work" (three sixes) of the law in the mind and heart and once accomplished, is seen as "the full grain in the head" or "fruit." The "fullness" of the letter becomes _the spiritual essence of being_ once we have experienced its dynamics. When the Lord states, " _Behold_ , I come as a thief," He is referring to the six vials or bowls which have been poured out. In other words, His coming "as a thief" is His coming through _the fulfilling of the law_.

The fact that the bowls are poured out on the "earth" is significant. As we know, the "earth" or "ground" speaks of the heart of man where the "seed" of the living Word is "sown" (Matt. 13:1-43). Paul made this clear when he wrote, "But he is a Jew (of Jerusalem above) who is one inwardly; and _circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit_ , not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God" (Rom. 2:29; NKJV). So the bowls of "wrath" or judgment of the "lawgiver" in the fulfilling of the law relates to "the hidden person of the heart" (I Peter 3:4; NKJV).

Acts 2:14-21 (KJV)

But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; and it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

These passages follow the pouring out of God's Spirit in the upper room on the day of Pentecost, which resulted in those who received it speaking "with other tongues (languages), as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:4). We read, "And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born" (Acts 2:5-8; KJV)? "And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine" (Acts 2:12-13; KJV). We then see the Apostle Peter's response in verses 14 through 21 where he quotes from the book of the prophet Joel. "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh." This phrase "I will pour out" is translated from the same Greek word as "pour out" in Revelation 16:1 and is defined by the Strong's Concordance as "to _pour forth_ ; figurative to _bestow_." This suggests that what took place on the day of Pentecost, as well as what would follow after, would be the fulfilling of the law and the prophets "upon _all_ flesh" as Jesus declared He would do. All are a part of this process.

Note then that Peter states, "And _your_ sons and _your_ daughters shall prophesy," followed by "and on _my_ servants and on _my_ handmaidens... and they shall prophesy." First, "your" or our sons and daughters followed by "my" or His servants and handmaidens. This reference to "prophesy" indicates that both the world and the church in the coming generations would bear witness (prophesy) of those things that were yet to be fulfilled through Christ as a life-giving Spirit finishing the work of our Father. The "servants" and "handmaidens" denote "slaves," male and female, so I immediately think of the phrase "free and _bond_ " found in Revelation 13:16 and those who "receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads." The word "bond" is the same word as "servants" in Acts 2:18. This word is also found in Revelation 7:3 in reference to "the _servants_ of our God" who are "sealed" (Rev. 7:3; KJV). This shows a contrast between those who are " _your_ sons and _your_ daughters" and those who are " _my_ servants and _my_ handmaidens." In other words, the "servants" and "handmaidens" speak of those "sealed" by God (bond) while the "sons" and "daughters" are those who are not sealed (free). This also shows the difference between the trumpets and vials seen in the book of the Revelation and how the fulfilling of the law affects both. The trumpets, along with the "servants" and "handmaidens" defines those who "hear" while the vials or bowls, along with the "sons" and "daughters" speaks of those who don't. It is these "sons" and "daughters" to whom Christ comes "as a thief," unaware that they are going through the process of our two covenants, the fulfilling of the law and the prophets. Finally, let's consider the fact that Revelation 13:16 reads, "He (the beast of the earth) causes _all_ ," indicating _everyone_ as illustrated by what follows, "small and great, rich and poor, free and slave" (Rev. 13:16; NKJV). So we could in essence say that "your sons and your daughters" speaks of the natural being in all of us, whereas "my servants and my handmaidens" denotes the spiritual being in all of us. Regardless of who we are or what we believe, everyone is under the working dynamics of the two covenants. There are no exceptions. Why? Because we cannot become His servant or handmaiden until we have been exposed to and tutored by the law (Gal. 3:24).

To better understand the dynamics of the living Word, let's examine the Parable of the Sower recorded in Matthew, Chapter 13, Mark, Chapter 4, and Luke, Chapter 8. After Jesus spoke this parable, His disciples pulled Him aside and asked Him to explain it. Jesus replied, "Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables?" This response signifies how important it is to understand. It sets the foundation for all the parables and best presents our principle of sowing and reaping.

Matthew 13:18-23 (NKJV)

"Therefore hear the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside. But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

The first thing I wish to point out concerning this parable is that Jesus gave us _four_ conditions to consider pertaining to the ground or "earth" in which the seed is sown (Matt. 13:1-9). _Four_ being the number of "material creation" or "world number" (Bullinger), along with our prophecy from Acts 2:14-21 (Joel 2:28-29), suggests that the entire world is represented in this presentation. Since _four_ is also the number of a "foundation" we are reminded of the "foundation of the world" as mentioned in various passages in the New Testament (Matt. 13:35; 25:34; Luke 11:50; John 17:24; I Cor. 3:10-12; Eph. 1:4). This foundation is the "seed" of the dynamic Word of our Creator that has worked in both the natural and spiritual realms since the beginning of creation.

The first "ground" or "earth" mentioned by the Lord is the "wayside," indicating "anyone" who "hears the word of the kingdom, and _does not understand it_ , then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart." In a garden, the "wayside" speaks of the path where one walks in order to avoid stepping on what has been planted. This path is hard-packed earth, unable to receive the seed.

Romans 5:13-14 (NKJV)

For **until the law** sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from **Adam to Moses** , even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.

When I think of the "wayside" in light of these passages from Romans, I see a correlation. Think of the phrase "Adam to Moses" as that which typifies a period of time when we hear "the word of the kingdom" _but don't understand it_ as illustrated in the story of Adam and Eve. When God commanded Adam not to eat from the tree of knowledge, Eve disobeyed, representing Adam's failure to understand or "know" in his heart (Gen. 3:5), the experience of good and evil into which he would enter after his transgression (I Tim. 2:14). As the parable shows and Genesis agrees, the "wicked one" (serpent) comes and snatches away what was sown in the heart. Despite the fact that Adam did not understand (representing all of us who don't understand), humankind from "Adam to Moses" was subjected to the principle of sowing to the flesh and reaping corruption or "death" as indicated by Romans 5:14. Though the law was yet to be given, the commandment was (Rom. 7:9-12), seen in the statement, "But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, _for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die_ " (Gen. 2:17; NKJV). This established the principle of sowing and reaping, so the picture of Adam's fall is one of intelligent design, for it is apparent that all of us must pass through this process to develop a true understanding. Suffering is the means by which all of us must learn. Keep in mind too that Paul wrote, "But the natural man (Adam and Eve) _does not receive_ the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." The "wayside" then, speaks of those whose mind and heart are completely absorbed in the realm of form.

When we come to the "stony places," our parallel would extend from the time of _Moses to Christ_. This is illustrated by the nation of Israel, their bondage in Egypt, their journey into the wilderness (and all that followed after). As Jesus taught and the Old Testament story shows, Israel heard the word from Moses and immediately received it with joy, yet there was no "root" and they were unable to "endure" but for a short time. When faced with "tribulation or persecution" in the wilderness, they immediately stumbled "because of the word" (Heb. 3:7-19). Compare the phrase "stony places" with Hebrews 3:8 where we read, " _Do not harden your hearts_ as in the _rebellion_ , in the _day of trial_ in the wilderness."

This particular segment illustrates how our natural being eventually comes to an understanding and acknowledgment of the law and a Creator, albeit in various ways, and points to the knowledge of good and evil that has been formed in our conscience by the instruction of our society and culture around us. At this point, a state of conflict arises and often manifests in our youth as rebellion because we challenge the boundaries that we realize have been placed on us. Due to this inward conflict, we often stumble, reluctant to face the tribulation and persecution that is brought to bear against our natural being by the awareness of a law or laws that address our behavior. Again, the suffering that comes as a result is the means by which we learn obedience (Heb. 5:8).

We then arrive at the third "ground" and the "seed among the thorns." These are those who hear "the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word," and they become "unfruitful." Now, if our first segment is _Adam to Moses_ and the second segment _Moses to Christ_ , then the third segment would be _Christ to this present time_. Why do I say this? Because the entrance of Christ into the world is one of the greatest spiritual phenomenon's of the history of this planet. He did far much more in the spiritual realities than most of us imagine. To say it plainly, He shifted the course of mankind forever, both naturally and spiritually, inwardly and outwardly. Is it any wonder then that the people of Israel and Judah at that time could not really perceive it?

Up until Christ, the kingdom of God was seen externally in the people of Israel and Judah and in the ordinances of the law. But since that time, the kingdom of God has been an internal matter; the "seed" of the living Word which exists in everyone brought to light and a greater understanding by the ministry and sacrifice of Christ. However, due in part to the political, economic, technological, and religious advances of humankind, the "cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches" has prevented this living Word from reaching its fullness (but this too is ordained by our Creator). As Luke states, "Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to maturity" (Luke 8:14; NKJV).

The affluence of our own country is one of the best examples of the "thorns." Due to our tremendous wealth, many of us live in relative comfort, not lacking for anything. Despite this, we struggle under a great amount of worry and stress as we seek to maintain the lifestyle we've been cultured to believe is necessary for our happiness. But we cannot find true contentment in the mind of form. Unknowingly, we have been taken captive by the political, economic and religious structures of our present society. Because we are taught to be so intensely self-absorbed, we are plagued by a discontent that we don't understand.

In the "wayside" we see _ignorance_. In the "stony places" we see _resistance_ , and in the "thorns" we see _confusion_ produced by the mind of form (which aligns itself with our understanding of Babylon). All three of these conditions are easily recognized today. At present, there is a mixture of all three conditions as each of us evolve through our spiritual processing for the Parable of the Sower illustrates this _individual_ and _collective_ process working in everyone.

Finally, we come to the fourth and final ground in the parable, those "who received seed on the good ground." In Matthew we are told it is he who "hears the word and _understands_ it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty." In the gospel of Mark we read, "such as hear the word, and _receive_ it, while in Luke's gospel, we read, "But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, _keep_ it, and bring forth fruit with patience" (Luke 8:15; KJV). In _three_ different gospels we find _three_ different renderings which defines what it means to bear "fruit;" it is those who understand, receive, and keep the word. Furthermore, Luke defines the "good ground" as "an honest and good heart." Honesty denotes sincerity, a position of no pretense, a heart that receives truth as it stands regardless of its effect on one's own self or those around them. It is a by-product of humility. This speaks of those who have made the transition from the natural being to the spiritual being as evidenced by their love and sacrifice.

If we add the four types of ground given to the hundredfold, sixty, and thirty, we have _seven_ , the number of "fullness." There is nothing left after this point and emphasizes _the fulfilling of the law and prophets_ and the fact that the entire world is indeed a part of this parable.

It is my opinion that we have not yet reached the "good ground" in any significant way. I say this because Christ spoke several times of "this age" and an "age to come" (Matt. 12:32; Mark 10:30; Luke 18:30).

The first component of the "good ground" is one who "understands," which is in direct contrast to the "wayside" or one who doesn't. Remember, knowledge is good, but must join with understanding in order to produce the offspring of wisdom, thus understanding relates to experience while knowledge is more of a mental effort. In essence, when we truly understand something, we have grasped the "spirit" of what we know, which then manifests as _enlightenment_ or _awareness_ , another way of saying _wisdom_. The mind or knowledge has come together with the heart or affection to produce the "fruit" or expression of the Spirit to others.

I must emphasize at this point that we cannot own or possess the truth. We simply need to align with it and commit to its essence. This is acceptance.

Knowledge suggests what is true, but static (II Cor. 3:6). Understanding however, suggests passion or experience, that truth is living and active. So the divisions we see today are a result of what we believe to be true; in other words, we are divided over knowledge. For this reason, Paul stated, "We know that we all have knowledge. _Knowledge puffs up_ , but love edifies" (I Cor. 8:1; NKJV). Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Helper, that he may abide with you for ever-- _the Spirit of truth_ ; whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him; but you know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you" (John 14:16-17; NKJV). And again, "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, _even the Spirit of truth_ , which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me" (John 15:26; KJV). You see, my friend, what testifies of Christ is not the knowledge of what is true, but the "Spirit" of the truth which proceeds from the Father Himself. So while we stand, divided over semantics, truth continues to work despite our ignorance of it. Humankind doesn't need knowledge alone, but the power and presence of that which makes it truth (John 8:32).

It is apparent by the divisions that we see today that we often disagree on what we define as truth. So much is being declared as the "gospel," but how much of it really is? Paul himself addressed this in I Corinthians, Chapter 1, writing, "Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, _that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment_. For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe's household, that there are contentions among you. Now I say this, that each of you says, 'I am of Paul,' or 'I am of Apollos,' or 'I am of Cephas,' or 'I am of Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul" (I Cor. 1:10-13; NKJV)? A little further in this same letter, Paul writes, "And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but _as to carnal, as to babes in Christ_. I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; _for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men_? For when one says, 'I am of Paul,' and another, 'I am of Apollos,' are you not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? _I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase_ " (I Cor. 3:1-7; NKJV). Note how Paul uses "babes in Christ" to describe the "carnal" position of this division. This word "babes" is defined as, " _not speaking_ , i.e. an _infant_ ( _minor_ )." The word "carnal" is defined as, " _pertaining to the flesh_ , i.e. (by extension) _bodily_ , _temporal_ , or (by implication) _animal_ , _unregenerate_." If we take these meanings at face value, it sheds a clear light on the spiritual condition of the religious structures of our time. Our "envy, strife, and divisions" reveals that most of us are merely "babes in Christ." With this in mind, consider the following passages.

Isaiah 3:4-5 (NKJV)

" **I will give children to be their princes, and babes shall rule over them**. The people will be oppressed, every one by another and every one by his neighbor; the child will be insolent toward the elder, and the base toward the honorable."

Isaiah 3:12 (NKJV)

As for My people, **children are their oppressors** , and women rule over them. O My people! Those who lead you cause you to err, and destroy the way of your paths."

We may wish to talk our way around what we are considering, but it is obvious that much of what we see today in religion exhibits the divisions that Paul addressed in the early church. No wonder the world is skeptical. There can be no doubt that the people of God are "oppressed," and this because we have "children" as our "princes" and "babes" as our rulers. Any of us know that a child is not able to govern properly due to their obvious immaturity and lack of experience.

# CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

# The Parable of the Marriage Feast

In relation to the Parable of the Sower, we find a parallel in the Parable of the Marriage Feast in Matthew, Chapter 22. Before we consider the details of this parable, we must first understand that "marriage" is more appropriately "marriage feast." Consider Vincent's treatment.

**Made a marriage** (ἐποίησεν γάμους)

But the phrase refers to the marriage-feast, rather than to the marriage-ceremony. In Esther 9:22, the word is used of feasting without any reference to a marriage. Rev., a marriage-feast.

Let's look at our parable from the Revised Standard Version of scripture.

Matthew 22:1-14 (RSV)

And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, `Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.' But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, `The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the thoroughfares, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.' And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. "But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, `Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, `Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen."

The first thing to point out is that this parable agrees with Revelation, Chapter 19, and "the _marriage supper_ of the Lamb."

Note that we read, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast." And how was it that he called them? He "sent his servants." Please consider.

Revelation 10:7 (KJV)

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to **his servants the prophets**.

Revelation 11:10 (KJV)

And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because **these two prophets** tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

Revelation 10:7 shows that his "servants" are the "prophets." Revelation 11:10 speaks of the "two witnesses" and calls them "these two prophets." The "two witnesses" of Revelation 11 illustrates the two covenants out of which comes the law and the promise, seen first as the two "trees" in the Garden of Eden. So, we could say that the "servants" in our parable denotes the covenants of our Father which are a call to all humankind and anyone who will hear. This agrees with the idea that Jesus said, "The seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11; KJV) or two covenants which stand as a "call" to the entire world as evidenced by the Parable of the Sower. If we approach the Parable of the Marriage Feast in this manner, it aligns perfectly with the Parable of the Sower.

Given this perspective, we see that after his servants have called those who were invited, "they would not come." This agrees with the "wayside" in the Parable of the Sower illustrated by our period between _Adam and Moses_.

Following the first invitation, we read, "Again he sent other servants, saying, 'Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.' But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city." This agrees with the "stony places" and our period of time between _Moses and Christ_ , which ended with the Lord's rejection by His own people and His crucifixion on the cross. Following this, history shows the "Siege of Jerusalem" in 70 CE. Consider the following from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia.

The Siege of Jerusalem in the year 70 CE was the decisive event of the First Jewish-Roman War. The Roman army, led by the future Emperor Titus, with Tiberius Julius Alexander as his second-in-command, besieged and conquered the city of Jerusalem, which had been occupied by its Jewish defenders in 66 CE.

The siege ended with the sacking of the city and the destruction of its famous Second Temple. The destruction of both the first and second temples is still mourned annually as the Jewish fast Tisha B'Av. The Arch of Titus, celebrating the Roman sack of Jerusalem and the Temple, still stands in Rome.

Our third invitation follows and we read, "Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the thoroughfares, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.' And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests." Our third invitation agrees with the "thorns" in the Parable of the Sower and our period of time from _Christ to the present_. The "thoroughfares" speaks of those outside of the nation of Israel (Rom. 11:11) while "those invited were not worthy" denotes Israel (Rom. 11:7-10). Note that the phrase "bad (evil) and good" points to the idea of the "tree of knowledge of good and evil," indicating the work of the law under which all of us are at this time.

We then come to the final phase of our parable and read, "But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, `Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, `Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." Note first that there is a mixture of "bad and good" guests who fill the "wedding hall." This agrees with the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares found in Matthew, Chapter 13, where we find both left alone until the time of harvest. The separation of the tares from the wheat correlates with the king's response to the "man who had no wedding garment." This also explains the following.

Matthew 7:21-23 (NKJV)

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

The casting out of the man with no wedding garment agrees with the phrase, "I never knew you." The word "garment" in our parable is _endyma_ , taken from the word _endyō_ , the same word used in II Corinthians 5:3 where we read, "If so _be that being clothed_ we shall not be found naked." It is in these passages where Paul speaks of the " _earthly house_ of this tabernacle" in contrast to "a building of God, _an house not made with hands_ , eternal in the heavens." The lack of a wedding garment signifies the natural man who does not receive the things of the Spirit of God. This confirms the separation of the tares from the wheat which leaves only the wheat of the "good ground" present. The point behind the Parable of the Marriage of the King's Son is found in the final statement, "For many are _called_ , but few are _chosen_."

The "good ground" speaks of a much smaller segment of humankind, who bear fruit thirty, sixty, and hundredfold. In reference to this passage, the New International Version reads, "Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and _produce a crop_ —thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown" (Mark 4:20; NIV). Here we see the exponential increase of the seed and in Galatians, we find that the "crop" consists of "the fruit of the Spirit," which is "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law" (Gal. 5:21-23; NIV). When we compare the phrase "you who practice lawlessness" with the "fruit of the Spirit," we discover that "fruit" illustrates the manifestation or behavior worked within us by the dynamic principle of sowing and reaping. No doubt, there are and have been various individuals who have entered into this and as a result, contributed greatly to the rest of the world. Some of these individuals are well-known in our society while others are not, but the degree in which one contributes cannot be gauged by man (Rom. 14:18; Eph. 5:8-10).

So in the "good ground," we have thirty, sixty, and a hundred times, the number _three_ again bearing witness of the "work" of the living Word in a people. In the next chapter, let's consider what is meant by the thirty, sixty, and hundred times.

# CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

# Called, Chosen, and Faithful

Revelation 17:14 (KJV)

These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are **called** , and **chosen** , and **faithful**.

Our passage from Revelation, Chapter 17, defines what is meant by our three "fruit-bearing" stages. The "thirty" refers to those who are "called" while "sixty" speaks of those who are "chosen." Finally, the "hundredfold" corresponds to those who are "faithful." All three sum up those "that are with Him." After all, one must be "called" before they can be "chosen" and "faithful." Keep in mind that _three_ , the number of "work" (sowing and reaping), shows that our called, chosen, and faithful are all an integral part of the continuing "work" of the "Lamb." Our word "lamb" speaks of the _sacrificial nature_ and _humility_ , of the willingness to be led by the Spirit of truth and lay down one's life for others (John 15:13).

In our phrase "called, and chosen, and faithful," we see those who are presented with life (called), followed by those who are willing to lay it down (second death of the soul or self), followed by those who take it up again (faithful; John 10:18), all of this in response to the "seed" which is presented to the heart. Not surprisingly, _thirty_ is the number that represents "as marking the right moment" (Bullinger). _Sixty_ is the number for "pride" (6 x 10; man's resistance to God's law), while _one hundred_ is the number that stands for _God's election of grace_ , or "the children of promise" (Gen. 21:5; Gal. 4:28). This process shows how that a few of the many that are called surrender their natural man to this process in order to enter into the life that truly glorifies the Father (John 15:8).

If what we have just considered is true, then the "faithful" in our parable speaks of those who pass completely through the transition from natural to spiritual to enter into eternal life, into the righteousness of God by faith (Rom. 3:21-22). This "hundredfold" or "faithful" are presented in the book of Revelation as the " _firstfruits_ unto God and the Lamb" (Rev. 14:4; KJV), a symbolic number of 144,000 that are seen just before "a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues" (Rev. 7:9; KJV). The "great multitude" signifies the "many" that are "called." In light of this innumerable multitude, 144,000 would not be much at all, but again, I believe this number is symbolic, not literal. It is 12 x 12 x 1000, the number of "divine government," the number of "witness" (two twelves), and the number of a "day" (the New Covenant Promise) or "glory of God" (II Peter 3:8; I John 1:7).

I will be the first to admit that the concept of the 144,000 or "firstfruits" is one that we must be careful with, so let's use the numbers presented to consider their possible meaning. Before we do that, let's develop a list on the Parable of the Sower to help clarify our understanding.

The Parable of the Sower

Before Christ

(First That Which is _Natural_ : The Old Covenant and Law)

1. Wayside | Adam to Moses

2. Stony Places | Moses to Christ

After Christ

(Afterward That Which is _Spiritual_ : The New Covenant and Promise)

3. Thorns | Christ to Present

4. Good Ground | Age to Come

(Matthew 13:23; Revelation 17:14; John 15:1-8)

Thirty | Called | Bears Fruit

Sixty | Chosen | More Fruit

Hundredfold | Faithful | Much Fruit

Our list verifies and shows that the "144,000" speaks of the "faithful" in our parable. When we bring this idea to Revelation 2:10, we read, "Be thou _faithful_ unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." We have already defined this "death" as the "second death," a voluntary act where the one called to die must remain "faithful" until this is accomplished (Matt. 10:39). As we see, the reward for this faithfulness is "a crown of life."

Our list shows a division between that which is "before Christ" and that which is "after," a separation between "that which is natural" and "that which is spiritual" (I Cor. 15:45-46). No wonder John declared, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29; NKJV)! Once Jesus received the Spirit of God, He brought to light the spirituality of the law and set in motion all of the components necessary for its fulfillment in a people. Remember, the 42nd generation is "Christ," the Spirit and Word (Matt. 1:17) represented by the "forty and two months" seen in Revelation 11:2 and 13:5.

As we have considered, there are _four_ segments or stages if you will, beginning with the wayside. _Four_ being the world number reveals that these stages now coexist and thus incorporate all humankind. So in our parable, we have a snapshot of the sowing and reaping of our Creator's living Word, of both covenants working in and throughout the entire world. It is a cyclical process, one that has continued since man's creation, unfolding from generation to generation and moving toward a fulfillment determined by our Father before the world began. As we have previously considered and verified, the two covenants are inseparably linked and run parallel in the world until such time that the Old Covenant or law is no longer needed. Despite the fact that the wayside, stony places, and thorns have no "fruit" to speak of, they still reveal a necessary part of the process when the seed is sown. All of our segments show our reaction and transition through His work of sowing and reaping.

Romans 8:29-33 (KJV)

**For whom he did foreknow** , he also did **predestinate** to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did **predestinate** , them he also **called** : and whom he called, them he also **justified** : and whom he justified, them he also **glorified**. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of **God's elect**? It is God that justifieth.

Our "called, and chosen, and faithful" show again in the preceding passages as "called" then "justified," and finally, "glorified." As Paul states, "whom He called, them He also justified: and whom He justified, them He also glorified." This is a wondrous thing and confirms God's position as the "Lawgiver and Judge," the only one who knows our hearts and therefore renders us just or innocent.

Though man most often sees on the surface of things, God knows what really dwells in the depths of our being (I Sam. 16:7). This perspective aligns with _the resurrection of the just_.

It is apparent in these passages that there are some who are predestined. This word "predestinate" means, "to _limit in advance_ , i.e. (figurative) _predetermine_." I believe this agrees with the "seven thousand men" of Romans 11:4 that God has reserved to Himself. These He calls, justifies and glorifies, confirming the work of Christ that is not by human hands. They are those who become the _first ripe fruit_ (firstfruits), indicating _that the rest of the crop or harvest will follow_. Let's bring this understanding to the following passages.

Revelation 12:1-2 (NKJV)

Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a garland of twelve stars. Then **being with child** , she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth. **She bore a male child** who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And **her child was caught up to God and His throne**.

Remember, the "woman clothed with the sun" speaks of "Jerusalem above" which "is free, which is the mother of us all" (Gal. 4:26; NKJV), the New Covenant and Promise that forms the "city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem," the "general assembly and church of the firstborn" (Heb. 12:22-23; NKJV). Note the difference between "general assembly" and "firstborn." The "general assembly" speaks of all who are called while the "firstborn" denotes the "chosen" who go on to become the "first ripe fruit" or "firstborn." The firstborn are further signified as the "male child" in the womb of the woman and illustrates _the formation of Christ or living Word within_ (Col. 1:27). Would this correlate with our "belly and thighs of brass?"

The _birth pains_ of the pregnant woman denote the _tribulation_ which the church (those who are called out of the world; more specifically the spirit of the world; I Cor. 2:12) is passing through in order to deliver this firstborn child (Matt. 24:8). As we can see, she delivers this "male child" which is "caught up to God and His throne," symbolizing the "faithful" who persevere to receive "a crown of life" (James 1:12; Rev. 2:10).

In Romans 8:29, Paul makes it clear that Christ is "the _firstborn_ among _many_ brethren," the exponential function of one to many evident. This shows that even as Christ now sits "on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject to him" (I Peter 3:22; Mark 16:19; Acts 2:33; Rom. 8:34; Col. 3:1; Heb. 10:2), so too do those who "overcome" (Rev. 2:26-28).

Now, let's back up for a moment to emphasize a certain point. Has the birth of the "male child" already taken place, or is it yet to come? Is the male child symbolic of Christ in the New Testament or of Christ to come? The answer is both. Please consider.

Galatians 4:19 (NIV)

My dear children, for whom **I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you**...

John 3:4 (NKJV)

Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? **Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born**?"

The statement which Paul makes in Galatians 4:19 follows his effort to explain to the believers in Galatia the differences between the law and the promise and their desire to be "under the law" (Gal. 4:21). Notice his reference to "I am again in the _pains of childbirth_ until Christ is formed in you." This, along with Nicodemus' question, indicated a need for these believers to "enter a second time" into their "mother's womb" in order for Christ to be "formed" again. This is why we see the "woman clothed with the sun" flee "into the wilderness" (Rev. 12:6) once she gives birth to the "male child" the first time to become the "Babylon" of Revelation, Chapter 17 (Rev. 17:3-5). Remember, Babylon refers to all of us under the bondage of the law (Gal. 4:24-25) and correlates with Paul's reference to a "falling away" in II Thessalonians 2:3, showing us that we are in need of Christ being formed in us again.

Now, let's bring our passages from Revelation 17:14 and Romans 8:30 together in a list and connect it to some passages in John, Chapter 15.

They That Are With Him

(Revelation 17:14; Romans 8:30)

Called | **Called**

Chosen | **Justified**

Faithful | **Glorified**

John 15:1-2, 5, 8 (NKJV)

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that **bears fruit** He prunes, that it may bear **more fruit**. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, bears **much fruit** ; for without me you can do nothing. **By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit** ; so you will be my disciples.

They That Are With Him

(Revelation 17:14; Romans 8:30; John 15:1-2, 5-8)

Called | Called | **Fruit**

Chosen | Justified | **More Fruit**

Faithful | Glorified | **Much Fruit**

In agreement with the idea of "glorified," we find in the Parable of the Vine that Jesus spoke of "fruit," "more fruit," and "much fruit." As our list shows, this aligns itself with our current understanding. "By this my Father is _glorified_ , that you bear much fruit," Jesus said. This explains what is meant by Paul's reference to those who are "glorified." It is not a glorification of man for man, but _a glory of God_ (1000) _for man_ (after all, the "fruit" of a tree is not for the sake of the tree). As the chart shows, it is the "much fruit" which brings glory to the Father, but it begins with "every branch that bears fruit" which must be pruned in order to "bear more fruit" and eventually "much fruit." The pruning speaks of the "judgment" of Babylon (Rev. 17:1) that is necessary for Christ to be formed. No wonder Paul wrote that judgment follows after our death in Adam (Heb. 9:27).

"It is God who justifies" (Rom. 8:33; NKJV). This statement, along with the presentation of the Parable of the Vine, confirms James's statement, "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy" (James 4:12; NIV). It is God who calls, justifies, and glorifies and our labels and separation have no effect on the work of God. This confirms that "this gospel of the kingdom" is His gospel and work, and He, as a life-giving Spirit, will bring it to pass. Since it is the Spirit of Christ that makes us righteous, who but Christ has any right to call a man so?

Mark 4:8 (KJV)

And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some **thirty** , and some **sixty** , and some an **hundred**.

Genesis 26:12 (KJV)

Then Isaac sowed in that land, and **received in the same year an hundredfold** : and the Lord blessed him.

Galatians 4:28 (KJV)

Now we, brethren, **as Isaac was** , are **the children of promise**.

In our preceding passages, note that Isaac "sowed in the land, and received in the same year an _hundredfold_ : and the Lord blessed him." This corresponds with the "hundred" of our parable which is further defined in Galatians as "the children of promise." It is those who bring glory to the Father by bringing forth an abundance of the "fruit of the Spirit" (Gal. 5:22-23).

Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)  
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies **a living sacrifice** , holy, acceptable unto God, _which is_ your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what _is_ that **good** , and **acceptable** , and **perfect** , will of God.

In confirmation with our presentation of called, chosen and faithful, Paul speaks of us presenting our "bodies" as "a living sacrifice," becoming "transformed" by the "renewing" of our minds that we may prove the "good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

They That Are With Him

(Revelation 17:14; Romans 8:30; John 15:1-2, 5-8)

Called | Called | Fruit | **Good**

Chosen | Justified | More Fruit | **Acceptable**

Faithful | Glorified | Much Fruit | **Perfect**

When we consider our simple chart with the parable of Mark, Chapter 4, then our "blade" and "head" and "full grain in the head" reveal how the work of the Spirit matures in those who seek and surrender to the "perfect" or _complete_ will of God. And what is His will? To become a "living sacrifice" for others as pictured by the crucifixion of Christ.

They That Are With Him

(Revelation 17:14; Romans 8:30; John 15:1-2, 5-8)

Called | Called | Fruit | Good | **Blade**

Chosen | Justified | More Fruit | Acceptable | **Head**

Faithful | Glorified | Much Fruit | Perfect | **Full Grain in the Head**

Revelation 4:4 (NKJV)

Around the throne were **twenty-four** thrones, and on the thrones I saw **twenty-four elders** sitting, clothed in white robes; and they had crowns of gold on their heads.

Revelation 21:12-14 (NKJV)

Also she had a great and high wall with **twelve gates** , and **twelve angels** at the gates, and names written on them, which are **the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel** : three gates on the east, three gates on the north, three gates on the south, and three gates on the west. Now the wall of the city had **twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb**.

As we know, the number 144,000 can be viewed as 12 x 12 x 1000. If we bring this understanding to the passages above, we can define our _two twelves_ as being the "twenty-four thrones" with "twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white robes." As these verses show, the first twelve denotes "the twelve tribes of the children of Israel" while the second twelve denotes "the twelve apostles of the Lamb." The "white robes" signify the _righteousness_ of the kingdom of God in His people (Rev. 19:8; Matt. 6:33). In the first twelve is seen the Old Covenant and the law while in the second twelve is seen the New Covenant and the promise; both of our covenants accounted for. This understanding helps define the "hundredfold" or "faithful" as those in whom "the law" is made "spiritual" as stated in Romans 7:14.

2 Peter 3:8 (KJV)

But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that **one day** is with the Lord as a **thousand years** , and a **thousand years** as **one day**.

Genesis 1:5 (KJV)

And God called the light **Day**...

John 11:9-10 (KJV)

Jesus answered, Are there not **twelve hours in the day**? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.

1 John 2:10 (NKJV)

**He who loves his brother abides in the light** , and there is no cause for stumbling in him.

The "light" is called "Day" and Jesus said there were " _twelve_ hours in the day." Remember, _twelve_ is _government by divine appointment_. Twelve hours in the day leaves twelve hours in the night. So "day" signifies the light (sun) of truth as seen in the promise, while "night" signifies the light of what's true (moon) as seen in the law (since the light of the moon or law is merely a reflection of the light of the sun or promise). So Peter states, "one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day." This shows that the twelve hours of the day are contained and symbolized in the "thousand years." And what is the reality of the light of truth? John declares, "He who loves his brother abides in the light, and there is no cause for stumbling in him." With this in mind, consider the following.

Revelation 7:4-5 (KJV)

And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an **hundred and forty and four thousand** of all the tribes of the children of Israel. Of the tribe of Juda were sealed **twelve thousand**...

The 144,000 is made up of "twelve thousand" from each of the twelve tribes of Israel shown in Revelation, Chapter 7. So in this number, we have _twelve_ or _government by divine appointment_ , times _one thousand_ or "a day."

Numbers 31:4-5 (KJV)

Of every tribe a thousand, throughout all the tribes of Israel, shall ye send to the war. So there were delivered out of the thousands of Israel, a thousand of every tribe, **twelve thousand armed for war**.

Revelation 19:11 (NKJV)  
Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him _was_ called Faithful and True, and **in righteousness He judges and makes war**.

In our passage from the book of Numbers, the Lord instructed Moses to "avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites" (Numbers 31:2; KJV). As verses 4 and 5 shows, "a thousand" were chosen from each tribe, making a total of "twelve thousand armed for war." When compared with our "twelve thousand" in Revelation, Chapter 7, and Revelation 19:11, we find that this number signifies the warfare by those whom God has chosen. This is also verified in Revelation, Chapter 17, where we read, "These (Babylon and the seven heads and ten horns) _shall make war_ with the Lamb, and _the Lamb shall overcome them_."

_Six hundred_ is connected to _warfare_ (Exod. 14:7; Judges 3:31 I Sam. 17:7), while _twenty_ stands for _redemption_ (Exod. 30:12-14) or "expectancy" (Bullinger). So is it merely coincidence that 12,000 is also 600 × 20, again indicating a _warfare_ , one in which the "Lamb shall overcome them?"

As all of these shows, there is much more to be considered with the idea of the 144,000. It is not a literal number, but symbolic of those whom God calls, justifies, and glorifies; of those whom God has determined through the Spirit of His Son, to bear witness of the law and the prophets. No wonder Paul wrote, "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren" (Rom. 8:29; NKJV). Look once more at the following passage.

Revelation 7:4 (KJV)

And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed **an hundred and forty and four thousand** of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

Note how the number 144,000 is given in the King James Version--"an hundred and forty and four thousand." If we list this number as it is given, here is what we have.

1. Hundred

2. Forty

3. Four

4. Thousand

Here's our list with the spiritual meaning of the numbers.

1. Hundred – Number of _the elect_ or _chosen_ ; the _children of promise_.

2. Forty – Number of _trial_ , _probation_ , and _testing_.

3. Four – Number of _creation_ and _foundation_.

4. Thousand – Number of the "day" or _glory of God_.

When seen in this fashion, we can derive that the chosen (100) are those whom God calls and brings through a time of testing (40) or pruning (John 15:2), to arrive at a point where they stand on the true foundation of Christ (4). As a result, they bear "much fruit" and bring the light or "day" (1000) of the glory of the Father to the world.

Matthew 24:35-36 (KJV)

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. But of that **day** and **hour** knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

James 1:17-18 (NKJV)

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from **the Father of lights** , with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. **Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth** , that we might be a kind of **firstfruits** of His creatures.

When we bring our understanding of the "day" and the twelve hours of that "day" into our passages above, then we see that Jesus was not talking of a physical time and event, _but of a people_ , of those who become the " _firstfruits_ unto God and to the Lamb" (Rev. 14:4; KJV). This is verified by the New Covenant, which states, "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their minds, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, _and they shall be to me a people_ : And they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more" (Heb. 8:10-12; KJV).

Notice how James refers to God as "the Father of _lights_." In other words, the light of the sun and the moon, the natural creations which reflect the spiritual realities of our covenants.

"But of that _day_ and _hour_ knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only," Jesus said. How appropriate. The "day" or "light" of God (1000) is seen in each of the twelve hours of that "day," showing us that it is truly a progressive work of spiritual warfare (12,000) that takes place in the mind and the heart of those whom God has reserved to Himself. God alone knows whom He calls, chooses, justifies, and glorifies. God alone knows His "good ground" in whom the living Word will arise and bear "much fruit."

Let's do a recap. As we know, there are _four_ types of conditions pertaining to the ground in the Parable of the Sower and how it affects the seed that is sown. As we know, four is the "world number," the number of "material creation" (Bullinger). This, along with the description of the four conditions given, indicates that the entire world is shown in this parable.

We have considered the _collective_ idea of our parable, so let's now consider the _individual_. The Parable of the Sower is about _relationship_. The definition of _relationship_ is, "The condition or fact of being related; _connection_ or association." Also, "The _state of being connected_ or related" (The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online)). Relationship is the core teaching of this parable, the _connection_ seen in the _joining_ of the seed and the ground, the Word and the hearts of humankind. Everything is connected to the Source from which it was derived. Our journey if you will, is to reveal to us this connection that exists between us and our Source, between each other, and between everything that exists in the world of form. Remember Paul said, "For in Him we live and move and _have our being_ " (Acts 17:28; NKJV). We all exist in a "state of being connected" to our Creator and to all that He has created.

The Parable of the Sower describes a relationship based upon the Word or "seed" of our Source. Now, when we say "Word" of God, it's like the word "car," which suggests the intricate connection of all that sums it up. A car is _one_ component, but made up of _many_ elements, from the larger, metal body to the smallest screw and wire. In the same way, the seed or Word incorporates the instructions of both our natural and spiritual development, of our corrupt and natural life and our incorruptible and spiritual life. As we have discovered in this study, the principle of sowing and reaping is _twofold_ and includes all that is necessary for us to evolve into natural and spiritual creations who exist in a _state of being connected_.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word _was_ God" (John 1:1; NKJV). The "seed" is this divine and immutable Word (Luke 8:11; NKJV) which defines the life and essence of all things visible and invisible. The "seed" or instructions for life are better seen in Isaiah, Chapter 11, and Revelation, Chapter 5, as the seven "Spirits" or _sevenfold_ attributes of the _one_ Spirit of our Maker which is His divine wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge and fear, which are then summed up in RIGHTEOUSNESS, _a right relationship to all things_. Our number _seven_ suggests the "fullness" and "manifestation" of one who exists in this right relationship, having evolved through the six stages that ends in the seventh, a "good tree" which bears "good fruit" (Matt. 7:17). These are those who enter into "rest" (Heb. 4:3, 10).

Proverbs 11:30 (NKJV)  
The fruit of the righteous _is a_ **tree of life** , and he who wins souls _is_ wise.

As this passage so clearly shows, the "tree of life" in the garden of Eden is symbolic of "the _fruit_ of the righteous," what Paul clearly defined as "the _fruit_ of the Spirit" in Galatians 5:22-23, and who among us doesn't wish to walk in the love, joy and peace which this fruit represents?

Seed = Word = Instructions for Life (Natural and Spiritual) = Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Might, Knowledge, Fear = Righteousness (Right relationship to all that is).

Psalms 145:17 (NIV)  
The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made.

It is apparent that our Creator exists in a right relationship to all that He has made. After all, how would He not be seeing that He has made all of it? So we read that He " _is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all He has made_." No matter how much we fail to understand, there is a much deeper wisdom working within the confines of our human existence, about which we can often only speculate.

Let's return to the Parable of the Sower and the Lord's explanation to His disciples. We'll begin with the condition of the first ground given.

Matthew 13:18-19 (NKJV)  
"Therefore hear the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand _it,_ then the **wicked** _one_ comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside.

Our first condition given in the parable is that of the "wayside." Remember, the wayside is the hard path on which one would walk in order to move their way through the rows which are broken and prepared for planting. Being the _first_ of our four conditions, the spiritual meaning of _one_ becomes apparent; _independence_. Since the seed doesn't penetrate the ground because of its hardness, it typifies when we fail to see our connection to all things, natural and spiritual. As the passage states, "It is not good that the man should be alone" (Gen. 2:18; KJV). Independence fosters isolation in our minds from our connection to our Source and thus from one another. In reference to the spiritual meaning of _one_ Bullinger wrote, "Independence, in God, is His glory. Independence in man, is his sin, and rebellion, and shame." The truth is we have never been independent of God, nor of one another and to think so is the reason for all the conflict in the world.

Dependence is the opposite of independence and the definition given by Dictionary.com reads, "1. The state of relying on or needing someone or something for aid, support, or the like. 2. Reliance; confidence; trust. 3. An object of reliance or trust." Whether we realize it or not, we are truly dependent on one another and when we are not, we are seeking for that dependence. Who among us doesn't need something or someone for aid and support at different times throughout our lives, even when all of our needs are met? This innate desire for dependence on a God or human being is intricate and deep-seated. However, much of our training as a child too often includes the independent characteristics and influence of the ego or self.

The phrase "wicked one" is a bit misleading, the word "one" actually inserted by the translators. The word "wicked" is _ponēros_ and reads, "from a derivative of G4192 (ponos); _hurtful_ , i.e. _evil_ (properly in effect or influence)." This Greek word is translated as "evil" 51 times and "wicked" 10 times in the New Testament. Six times it is translated as "wicked one." When we say "one," we should think in regards to what Paul wrote in Romans 12:4 and 5. "For as we have _many_ members in _one_ body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being _many_ , are _one_ body in Christ, _and every one members of one another_." We could say then that the collective influence of the natural man leads to hurtful and evil problems in our lives.

Matthew 13:20-21 (NKJV)  
But he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.

The second condition given is "stony places." As the Lord's explanation indicates, this is one who hears and receives the Word with joy yet has no root within themselves and thus only endures for a short time when tribulation or persecution arises _because of the Word_. This shows how the dynamics of truth create division within because it almost always stands in conflict to our natural being. Being the _second_ condition of the four grounds, the spiritual meaning of _two_ comes to light, representing this _division_ created from the seed of the Word in our minds and hearts, the conflict that arises within because of our resistance to the truth.

Matthew 13:22 (NKJV)  
Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.

We now come to the third condition given in our parable, the "thorns." As we know, _three_ is the number that typifies the finished work of the seed itself, the appearance of the "full grain in the head" (Mark 4:28). But as the parable shows, the "thorns" rise up, indicating the elements and deception of the independent self that still remains. Note that it is "the cares of _this_ world," the world of form, and the "deceitfulness of riches" which enter in to "choke" the Word of truth and cause unfruitfulness. The Greek definition of "choke" is "to _strangle completely_ , i.e. (literal) to _drown_ , or (figurative) to _crowd_." No wonder Jesus taught, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (greed for material gain)" (Matt. 6:24; NKJV).

How often are relationships strained or broken by our desire for material things? How often does our want of things interfere with our connections to bring about strife and division? But as we have discovered, when we satisfy our want or longings, how quickly our dissatisfaction rises again to start another conflict in our life.

A right relationship with all things incorporates the understanding of our connection to all things, whether it be a material object, creature, a human being, or the God we acknowledge.

### CHAPTER NINETEEN

### Resurrection

The word "resurrection" means, "a _standing up_ again," taken from the word which means, "to _stand up_." When we consider this in our principle of sowing and reaping, we see that "resurrection" is the eventual "standing up again" of the seed that was sown in the ground. Essentially, this shows that the process of sowing and reaping is basically threefold and includes the element of resurrection. First the living seed, followed by the planting or "death" of the seed, followed by the "standing up again" of the seed in a different form or "body" than that which was planted (I Cor. 15:35-38). So life, death, then life again. However, just as a seed and the tree it produces are quite different in appearance, we should note that the "life" that begins the process is not the same as the "life" that is seen at the end. What begins in seed form is destined to arrive at a mature state. The exponential factor is also important to remember and shows that what begins with one seed ends with the many seeds found in the fruit.

All life, natural and spiritual, begins with a seed. Since all seeds are the beginning of life and pass through death to arrive at life again, then we better understand why all of us, like Adam, die. The first death of our soul causes "a _standing up_ again" which matures into corruptibility, _a state of existence_ that produces "trespasses and sins" (Eph. 2:1; KJV) instigated by the "seed" of the commandment sown in the beginning by our divine Source. So it follows that our Maker was not caught off guard by Adam and Eve's disobedience as pictured in our story in Genesis. Rather, it was a matter of intelligent design. Death is as necessary in the process as the life which begins it and the life which results from it.

Galatians 6:7-10 (NKJV)

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

John 5:28-29 (NKJV)

Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the **graves** will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to **the resurrection of life** , and those who have done evil, to **the resurrection of condemnation**.

If we bring our definition of resurrection to verse 29, we could say it like this--"those who have done good, to the 'standing up again' of life, and those who have done evil, to the 'standing up again' of condemnation." Keep this in mind as we continue.

In verse 28, the word "graves" is defined as, "a _remembrance_ , i.e. _cenotaph_ (place of interment)," taken from the word which means, " _memory_ ," which comes from the word which means, "to _remind_ , i.e. (middle) to _recall to mind_." I immediately think of what Jesus said to the church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:5. " _Remember_ therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works." This shows that while we are in the darkness of this process, it is necessary to recall to mind why and what began it. With this in mind, consider the following passages.

Revelation 11:7-9 (KJV)

And when they (the two witnesses) shall **have finished their testimony** , the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And **their dead bodies shall lie in the street** of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half **, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves**.

If the "two witnesses" denote the law and the prophets (promise) as contained in our two covenants, our passages show that there will come a time when they "shall have _finished_ their testimony." In other words, " _all is fulfilled_ " as Christ said in Matthew 5:18. At this point "the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And _their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city_ ," and "they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations _shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves_." If a grave is about _remembrance_ , and the two witnesses are not "put into graves," _then they are not remembered_. However, since we know that death is a vital part of our process, then we also realize that this is a necessary step which will conclude in _resurrection_ or "a standing up again."

We know that "the great city" speaks of "Babylon" (Rev. 17:18), indicative of "Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children" (Gal. 4:25; KJV), in other words, our natural being who is subject to the Old Covenant law (I Cor. 3:1-7). It is in the "street" of this "great city," Babylon, that the "dead bodies" of the two witnesses are left in full view of the world. The word "street" means " _a wide 'plat'_ or ' _place_ ', i.e. open _square_ ," taken from the word which means "spread out " _flat_ " ("plot"), i.e. _broad_." Jesus said, " _Broad_ is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it" (Matt. 7:13). Does this indicate our inability to recognize the reaping of corruption when we sow to the self? Would this also fulfill the prophecy spoken by Christ to the church of Sardis. "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, _but you are dead_ " (Rev. 3:1; NKJV)? Does this state of death refer to the "form of godliness" which Paul spoke of in II Timothy 3:1-5? The phrase "form of godliness" defines the law in the hands of our natural being which we are clearly unable to keep but yet use to condemn and divide from one another. As this suggests, the strongest evidence of our "form of godliness" are the varying degrees of the religious wars that continue to be seen throughout the world. We have a name that we live, but our actions speak otherwise; we are dead. We have lost the spiritual essence of love and unity necessary to be true witnesses of the principles of the kingdom. We need to "repent and do the first works" in order to receive the spiritual empowerment necessary to "stand up again."

Revelation 11:11 (KJV)

And **after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet** ; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.

In Revelation, Chapter 11, we first see the two witnesses "standing before the God of the earth" (Rev. 11:4; NKJV). I believe this refers to the "god of _this_ world" of which Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:4, which is the _natural man_ or _self_ who "opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God" (II Thess. 2:4; NKJV). This "collective" power of the self is also the "beast" in Revelation, Chapter 11, who succeeds in overcoming and killing our two witnesses, the reality of which is seen in the fact that our religious indoctrination has crowded out the need for love and unity for the sake of upholding the labels and doctrines that separate us from each other. But then we read, "after three days and a half _the Spirit of life from God_ entered into them, _and they stood upon their feet_." Doesn't this suggest a _resurrection_ , a "standing up again?" And what is it that actually stands up? Would it be the principles of the law and the prophets energized by the "Spirit of life" of which Paul writes in Romans 8:2? And since the reality of these two covenants is already working within the hearts of all humankind, wouldn't this indicate an awakening to the fact that "love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law" (Rom. 13:10; NKJV)?

Acts 24:14-16 (NKJV)

But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I worship the God of my fathers, **believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets**. I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that **there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust**. This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

Paul, standing before Felix the governor, made it clear to him that he believed " _all things_ which are written in _the Law_ and in _the Prophets_ ," and that "there will be a _resurrection_ of the dead, both of _the just_ and _the unjust_." Remember, the process of sowing and reaping is threefold; life (seed), then death, followed by resurrection. So inasmuch as it began with life two thousand years ago, it was necessary for this life to fall into the ground of our hearts and die in order that it might rise up again. What began in "seed" form in the gospels and the book of Acts must reach its "fullness" as shown in Revelation. In other words, the reality of the resurrection will be an awakening to the righteousness that is necessary to heal humankind.

Daniel 12:1-4 (NKJV)

"At that time **Michael shall stand up** , the great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; and **there shall be a time of trouble** , such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, every one who is found written in the book. **And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt**. **Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever**. "But you, Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book until the time of the end; many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase."

The name "Michael" means " _who_ (is) _like God_ ," so let's think outside the box for a moment. Instead of seeing this as some angelic personage or being, think of Michael as representing the "fullness" of the seven Spirits of God which are defined in Isaiah, Chapter 11. In other words, the _Spirit of Righteousness_ (Isa. 11:4). This is confirmed by the passages which read, "And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth _shall awake_ , _some to everlasting life,"_ and, " _those who are wise_ shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and _those who turn many to righteousness_ like the stars forever and ever." This agrees with our _fourth_ day of creation where we find the sun, moon, and "the _stars_ also" (Gen. 1:16; KJV), the "stars" symbolic of those who enter into this righteousness.

Preceding this awakening we read, "there shall be _a time of trouble_ , such as never was since there was a nation, even to that time. And _at that time your people shall be delivered_ , every one who is found written in the _book_." Would this be the "book of life" seen in Revelation (Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 20:12; 20:15; 21:27; 22:19)? Would this "book of life" agree with the "seven thousand" whom God has reserved?

Look once more at the following--"And many of those _who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake_ , some to everlasting life," the _just_ (righteous), "some to shame and everlasting contempt," the _unjust_ (unrighteous) (This shows that eternal life is not about living forever but about _a state of righteousness_ and that it is _righteousness which is eternal_ because it is our Creator's nature). Now, would those who "sleep in the dust of the earth" refer to those whom Jesus said "are in the graves" since "sleep" is indicative of death or spiritual ignorance (John 11:11-13; Acts 13:36)? Didn't we discover that "dust" is the "serpent's meat" (Isa. 65:25; KJV)? Didn't Paul write, "Therefore let us not _sleep_ , _as do others_ ; but let us watch and be sober. For _they that sleep_ sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night" (I Thess. 5:6-7; KJV). Remember, our spirit cannot die, _but it can sleep_ , which is symbolic of our lack of spiritual consciousness which brings forth unrighteousness in our lives. Furthermore, what did the Lord say? They shall " _hear His voice and come forth_... to the resurrection of life," or "to shame and everlasting contempt." Like life, contempt or condemnation is eternal because unrighteousness is the antithesis of righteousness.

If the church or "called" are not here as some suppose, then after the resurrection, who is turning who to righteousness? Would it not be the "just" turning the "unjust?" You see, my friend, the reality of the resurrection is the "standing up again" of life, of that which instills the love for all creation within our being. When this love is fully realized within, then our knowledge and understanding will change. And when our knowledge and understanding changes, so too will our actions. We will, as Paul so clearly put it, "Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law" (Rom 13:8; NKJV).

The resurrection is not about a catching away of the saints to a "heaven" far away somewhere. Rather, it is about an _awakening to righteousness_ where we no longer transgress the law and harm our neighbors (I Cor. 15:34). The world is in great need of this divine love, of a love that moves us to change our way of thinking to the well-being of all things; of humankind, its creatures, and of the planet itself.

The resurrection is the _third_ component of our _threefold_ process of the sowing and reaping of the living Word in the heart of humankind. It is divinely instituted and divinely wrought. It is the initiation and fulfillment of what our Creator determined, not what we have supposed. It is not about living forever in some far away place called heaven, but about walking in the love of God that transcends all of the man-made boundaries and prejudices that we have managed to impose on each other. Let's look at some passages from Romans, Chapter 6, which will confirm what we are considering.

Romans 6:1-3 (NKJV)

What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? **Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?**

If my understanding is correct, the "second death" of Revelation is to _die to sin_ as Paul states in verse 2. And how was this accomplished in Paul? By his baptism "into Christ Jesus," into "His death." Would this be what happened for the other apostles on the day of Pentecost in Acts, Chapter 2?

Romans 6:4 (NKJV)

Therefore **we were buried with Him through baptism into death** , that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so **we also should walk in newness of life**.

Paul clarifies verse 3 in verse 4, stating, "Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death," so "baptism into death" agrees with the grain of wheat that must fall into the ground and die. This confirms the necessity of the "second death" which correlates with the second stage of sowing to the Spirit in order to reap life. Paul states afterward, "that just as Christ _was raised from the dead_ by the glory of the Father," (clearly indicating _resurrection_ ), "even so we also _should walk in newness of life_." This latter phrase tells us two things. The purpose of the resurrection is "newness of life" and that after it takes place, we conduct our lives out of this "newness," what the Strong's Concordance defines as " _renewal_." So resurrection does not remove us from this world, rather, _it brings life into our present state of existence_.

Romans 6:5-7 (NKJV)

For **if we have been united together in the likeness of His death** , certainly we also shall be **in the likeness of His resurrection** , knowing this, that **our old man was crucified with Him** , that **the body of sin might be done away with** , that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For **he who has died** has been freed from sin.

The "likeness of His death" leads to the "likeness of His resurrection." This "death" speaks of the crucifixion and death of the "old man," the natural man, which Paul calls "the body of sin" that must be "done away with." This agrees with the understanding that our suffering is necessary, that we must pass through the darkness of death, the temporary nature and passing away of the soul, in order to reach the light of life, the eternal life and nature of the spirit which cannot pass away. He then sums it up and says, "For he who has died has been freed from sin." To be free from sin means to _walk in righteousness_ , to fulfill the law by conducting ourselves in the same love that God is (I John 4:16). So it is apparent that we need to experience this death before we physically pass from this earth that we might walk in life.

Romans 6:8-10 (NKJV)

Now **if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him** , knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.

There can be no doubt as to the purpose of resurrection once we understand our passages from Romans, Chapter 6. It is to die to the self from which sin emanates, that we might walk in the love and unity of the life of the Spirit and wisdom of the One who created us.

As we have seen, the death of the two witnesses is a necessary step in the divine purpose of our Maker and illustrates the darkness through which natural and spiritual Israel (two olive trees) must pass in order for the resurrection to take place (see Romans, Chapter 11). I believe that the "fullness of the Gentiles (nations)" in Romans 11:25 refers to the fulfilling (fullness) of the law and the prophets to which Jesus referred in Matthew 5:17 and of which John wrote in Revelation 11:7. Remember, "darkness" signifies the world of form and the mind of form which has been sown in us by previous generations. But it is a necessary part of our spiritual awakening. The suffering that is typified by this "darkness" and the cross of Christ is the means by which we learn obedience (Heb. 5:8).

### CHAPTER TWENTY

The Force of Will

Genesis 1:3 (KJV)

And God said, **Let there be** light: and there was light.

Acceptance. Two of the definitions from The Free Dictionary by Farlex (online) defines acceptance as: 1) The act or process of accepting, and 2) Belief in something; agreement.

The phrase "Let there be" implies acceptance. Acceptance of what? Light. Remember, in Genesis 1:3, we do not see the creation of light, but simply the act of allowing it, for "God _is_ light and in Him is no darkness at all" (I John 1:5; NKJV).

In the process of sowing and reaping, it is the natural inclination of the seed to break forth out of the ground in order to experience the light of life that is necessary to bring it forth into its maturity. So, from our beginning, we were created with an innate desire to reach up to the light, to a higher form and essence of wisdom and understanding than that which is known within the confines of our natural being. Our spirit within longs for the Spirit from which it came (Psalms 42:7). There can be no doubt about this when we consider the powerful influence of the various religions that exist around the globe. Everyone, regardless of culture and belief, is seeking something higher than themselves, wanting to find their true purpose and meaning for being here.

According to Genesis, the first words ever uttered by our Maker was, "Let there be light." When we truly understand what this means, then we can see the absolute perfection in this simple statement. Not surprisingly, it is _four_ words, indicative of the _creative_ process of our divine Source that ends with all of us arriving at this light.

The definition of _light_ in the Strong's Concordance reads, "from H215 ('owr); _illumination_ or (concrete) _luminary_ (in every sense, including _lightning, happiness_ , etc.)." Like our explanation of "Word" in "Word of God," the word "light" embodies much more than the idea of brightness. Light typifies _the dynamics of eternal truth_ , that which gives us _illumination_ outwardly _and_ inwardly. Just as light is derived from fire and gives heat, it incorporates the idea of warmth or burning, depending on our resistance to or acceptance of that which is the truth of our Maker. As all of us know, the _intensity_ of light can obliterate all aspects of darkness. This illustrates to us that we can move out of the temporal realm of form into the eternal realm of the formless. As we have discovered, the light of truth found in the Old Covenant is typified by the moon, but the New Covenant is typified by the sun itself, i.e. the Two Covenants are joined. This shows that the light on our temporal existence in this realm of form is regulated by the Old Covenant Law of God until we transcend to the fullness and maturity of the New Covenant Promise of God.

Mark 3:31-35 (NKJV)  
Then His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, "Look, Your mother and Your brothers are outside seeking You." But He answered them, saying, "Who is My mother, or My brothers?" And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! For **whoever does the will of God** is My brother and My sister and mother."

1 Peter 2:15-16 (NIV)  
For **it is God's will** that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.

Found within the construct of the Old Covenant and New Covenant is the "will of God," for a covenant is a _testament_ or _will_ of one who stipulates their wishes to be fulfilled after they die. Hebrews, Chapter 9, gives an overview of both covenants, and contrasts the blood of animals under the Old Covenant and the law with the blood of Christ under the New Covenant and promise. And so we read, "How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God" (Heb. 9:14; KJV)?

Romans 12:2 (NKJV)  
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what _is_ that **good** (thirty) and **acceptable** (sixty) and **perfect** (hundredfold) will of God.

Is it merely coincidence that our words, "Let there be light" are found in Genesis 1:3 and we find in Romans 12:2 _three_ different degrees of the "will of God?" Remember, _three_ speaks of the dynamics of sowing and reaping, the _work_ of the "seed" of the living Word of God as defined in our covenants. Remember, God is not mocked, and whatever is sown must be reaped. This tells us that there is a "force of will" present within the makeup of our human existence, a will that is immutable and unchangeable, divinely ordained, established in this world of form from its very beginning. Our free will is enveloped by His will. We are constrained by a divine love that we do not yet truly comprehend. But unlike humankind, the force of God's will is not about fear and dominance, but about love and choice. For this reason, we are told, "Let there be," in other words, we _surrender_ to His will because we finally arrive at a place where we realize that His wisdom includes what is best for us and for all things. Through the divine design of sowing and reaping, our Creator delivers this reality to us through a love that is unconditional in its scope. As we pass through the process, it brings to us an understanding of the eternal virtues that supersede the temporary and passing pleasures of this world of form. Through love, His will slowly but inescapably becomes apparent, so that we might _choose_ a higher path of peace and leave behind the conflict and suffering that is so obvious when we are absorbed in the self. God wants what is best for us.

Note how Paul describes our three degrees of God's will as "good and acceptable and perfect." Also note in parenthesis how I have added the thirty, sixty, and hundredfold from our good ground found in the Parable of the Sower. The renewing of our minds begins with the "good" will of God which becomes "fully agreeable" (Strong's) to eventually manifest as "perfect" or "complete" (Strong's).

Isaiah 46:9-10 (NKJV)

**Remember the former things of old** , for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, **declaring the end from the beginning** , and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure...'

Perhaps I place too much hope on the preceding passages, but when I read that God has declared "the _end_ from the _beginning_ " and then consider the first words He uttered, I cannot help but believe that this is the "end" which Isaiah refers to.

2 Corinthians 5:14-16 (NKJV)

For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that **if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all** , that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Therefore, from now on, **we regard no one according to the flesh**. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer.

These are some of the most precious statements that Paul ever wrote. To "regard no one according to the flesh" means to acknowledge that the process of sowing and reaping applies to everyone. And just as there are various conditions, elements, and stages of growth in a garden, it is all one process and _all of it is acceptable_. In every garden are rocks, weeds, and plants which never mature, but the crop is not rejected because of this. Rather, care and patience is required in order to reach the full benefits of the harvest.

When we truly appreciate that all of us are in this process, and accept this as the present state of existence for humankind, then we will find ourselves with a clear and definitive choice; we can sow to _our_ flesh or to _the_ Spirit. We can seek for the temporary satisfaction of the self or we can be about our Father (Luke 2:49) and the well-being of all things on this planet.

I think all of us wonder why humankind has to pass through so much suffering. When we look at what we have done and are doing to each other, it is difficult to comprehend that we do most of these things out of a love for our human form and those things we see, despite knowing that both are temporary and destined to pass from this planet. But all of us are guilty in varying degrees. Not one of us can point the finger and say we are not.

Suffering is one of the most difficult realities of our existence, but a unique element in its own right. When we suffer physically, emotionally, or psychologically, what we often deem as important loses its value and the suffering becomes the focus. When the suffering is resolved, we discover that our values have been changed by it.

I have heard it said that you cannot fix a problem with the same mind that created it. Suffering therefore, is the means by which we are pushed to change this way of thinking that has led to the pain that we endure and which we create in others lives. And how much pain must we endure? It is unique to every situation and to every person, therefore we cannot unfairly judge anyone who is passing through it.

As we have discovered, the principle of sowing and reaping is applicable to both the natural and the spiritual. In it is contained the "darkness" or "death," the suffering that is necessary as symbolized by the seed in the ground. As we have also discovered, the distress of our natural man is often self-inflicted due to our disobedience or resistance to the principles of the kingdom of God while the suffering of the spiritual man rises out of obedience and our willingness to suffer for others. I believe that both sides of this principle work unceasingly and are bringing us to a place where the mind of form will be eradicated and replaced by a knowledge and understanding that will change the world in which we live. _Humankind is destined for an awakening_. One day, hopefully soon, our resistance will end and we will "let there be light."

"There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so."

William Shakespeare, "Hamlet," Act 2 Scene 2

English Dramatist & Poet (1564 - 1616)

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity."

Albert Einstein

US (German-born) Physicist (1879 - 1955)

" _Allow_ the darkness...

For it is necessary to lead us to light."

Jack Marshall

####

Thank you for reading my book. It is my sincere hope that it encouraged and enlightened you in your walk with Christ. If so, won't you please take a moment to leave me a review at your favorite retailer? Thank you!

Jack Marshall

**About the Author** :

Jack Marshall was born in California in 1957, but raised in Oklahoma, where his experience with Christianity began at the age of 19. After several years of attending various denominational and non-denominational churches, his love for the Bible and desire to understand the scriptures became a vital part of his life. Ordained in his twenties, he spent several years ministering in homes, jails, and churches. Through in-depth study for the past 38 years, Jack has discovered that the message of scripture is truly one of hope, love, and encouragement for the entire world.

Connect With Me:

**Friend me on Facebook** : <https://www.facebook.com/GrainOfWheatPublishing>

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Other books by Jack Marshall

Times and Seasons – An Alternative View of the Day of the Lord

Hell, No! An Alternative View of Hell

The Rapture – Yes or No?

Studies in Revelation – The Beasts of Revelation

The Parable of the Sower

Studies in Revelation – The Second Death

The Unpardonable Sin

Studies in Revelation – The Beast of the Earth

**Bibliography**

Reference:

E.W. Bullinger (1837-1913), Number in Scripture: Its Supernatural Design and Spiritual Significance, Public Domain, 1921

Dr. Ed F. Vallowe (1919-2002), Biblical Mathematics: Keys to Scripture Numerics: How to Count the Bible, 1998

Dr. James Strong (1822-1894), Strong's Concordance, First Published 1890

Marvin R. Vincent (1834-1922), Vincent's Word Studies in the New Testament, First Published 1887

W.E. Vine (1873-1949), Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, First Published 1940

Wayne Roberts, The Higher Will – A New Way to Think About God, Religion, and Your Life's Purpose, 2015

Reference (Online):

The Free Dictionary by Farlex, www.thefreedictionary.com

Dictionary.com, dictionary.reference.com

Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary

Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia, www.wikipedia.org

WebMD, www.webmd.com

Science Learning Hub, www.sciencelearn.org.nz

Bible Translations Used:

KJV, King James Version, Public Domain, 1611

NKJV, New King James Version, Published by Thomas Nelson, Inc., Complete Bible 1982

NIV, New International Version, Biblica, Zondervan and Hodder & Stoughton (UK) (licensed commercial rights), 1973 (NT), 1978 (OT)

Amp, Amplified Bible, Published by The Zondervan Corporation and The Lockman Foundation, First Edition 1965

RSV, Revised Standard Version, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA, 1946 (NT), 1952 (OT)

Quotes:

John Milton (1608-1674), English Poet

Al Bartlett (1923-2013), Professor of Physics, University of Colorado

William Shakespeare (1564-1616), "Hamlet," Act 2 Scene 2, English Dramatist & Poet

Albert Einstein (1879-1955), US (German-born) Physicist

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, French Jesuit Priest, Mystic Philosopher, Paleontologist (1881-1955)
