Category Archives: Prophecy

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

The Sixth Commandment: You Shall Not Murder – Part 02 of 02

Thou shalt not Kill

In Part 01, we were introduced to the Sixth Commandment, which forbids murder. Having looked at it from different angles, the bedrock is that we are made in the image of God and that life is sacred. Now we continue to look at the commandment from a New Testament perspective.

Jesus makes it clear that He did not come to earth in order to destroy the law or prophets. On the contrary, His purpose was to fulfil them – Matthew 5:17. A few verses later, He addresses the sixth commandment. While the penalty of murdering is to be ‘in danger of the judgement (verse 21), the Lord goes even deeper. Even if you never pick up a deadly weapon, or assault anyone, you will also be subject to the judgement if you are angry at your brother ‘without a cause.’ Please note this phrase because it qualifies everything. Jesus goes further: If you call your brother raca, a slur on his intelligence by calling him empty-headed and senseless, you will stand before the council (the Sanhedrin). Now listen to this: if you insult your brother by calling him a fool, you will be in danger of hell fire (verse 22). Wow!

Generally speaking, anger, especially righteous anger, is not in the same league as murder. Yet anger, which stews and fumes, refuses to forgive, and plans revenge to harm or destroy, is put as equivalent to murder. What people seem to forget: if you nurse hatred in the heart long enough, and it only increases, then the temptation to finished off with our hands the emotions of the heart, only increases. How many times have people who nursed the wrong attitude for awhile go all the way and murder when they had the tools to do so?

… for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart — 1 Samuel 16:7b


The above points are from the most famous sermon in the world – The Sermon on the Mount – should cause us to pause and assess our attitude. The teachers of the law focused on the outward actions – like overt murder – but Jesus zeroes in on the heart. The Lord goes on to say that it is more important to reconcile with an estranged brother than to make an offering at the altar. Fix the relationship and then have a clear conscience to worship God.

If you find yourself in a chronic attitude of bitterness, resentment, and unforgiveness, due yourself a big favour and reject these things. And there is good news: The door of mercy is still open. If you are not yet a Christian, then repent, believe the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:3-5), and receive Christ. If you already are a believer, repent, confess your sin and be cleansed by the blood of Jesus (1 John 1:7-9).

Suicide, Euthanasia, Just War, Good Samaritan

We need to compassionately and courageously look at issues of suicide and euthanasia. Western prohibition of both has been squarely based on the sixth commandment. With the eroding of Judaeo-Christian ethics and morality in western society, it has opened up the possibility of legalising what was once unthinkable. US President John F. Kennedy (1917-1963) had Addison’s disease and suffered pain for 25 years; yet, the author of Profiles in Courage never considered ending his career and life by suicide.

In like manner, we oppose euthanasia and assisted suicide: It is God who gives life and God who takes away. By all means, do what you can to alleviate pain and utilise palliative care, but leave the rest to God. He will be waiting on the other side. Besides, the ‘safeguards’ that no one will be killed against their will are not sufficient. Years ago in Europe, a woman complained about being lonely; all she needed was a cat to keep her company but they euthanised her instead.

In church history, the theologians like Augustine came up with the theory of ‘Just War.’ Taking the sixth commandment seriously and repudiating offensive war, what about fighting and killing in self-defence? It seemed good ‘to the Holy Spirit’ and them that in the event of an unprovoked attack against a nation, it was permissible to fight back, even though it could result in deaths.

On a positive note, remember the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. This man faithfully fulfilled the sixth commandment vis a vis an anonymous stranger who fell victim to the thieves and left for dead on the Jerusalem-Jericho road. His heart carried compassion, love, and mercy, in short, loving his neighbour as himself. This heart attitude led to noble outward actions: he bound up his wounds, poured in the oil and wine; carried him on his donkey to the inn; paid his expenses; and left extra money in case there was more expenditure.

In fulfilling the sixth commandment, Jesus gives us a simple command of His own: Go and do likewise.

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

Put God First: Why Study the Book of Haggai Part 01

 

PART ONE

The prophesied 70 year Babylonian captivity of the Jewish people had finally come to an end. There were three deportations of the Jews to Babylon including in the years 605, 597, and 586 BC. The Medo-Persian king Cyrus the Great gave a decree that the Jews could return to Judah and rebuild the House of the Lord in Jerusalem. A minority of Jews heeded the call.

Among the returnees were an older man named Haggai and a younger man Zerubbabel. Just as there were three deportations to Babylon, so there were three returns from Babylon:

Return One: Haggai and Zerubbabel (536 BC);

Return Two: Ezra (457 BC);

Return Three: Nehemiah (444 BC).

As Cyrus encouraged, the returning Jews set about to rebuild the ruined temple of Solomon. The mere attempt of bringing back the sacred precincts stirred up furious opposition from the non-Israelite neighbours, leading to a decree to cease building. The temple languished for about 16 years while the Jews in Judah sought to recreate pre-exilic life.

However, there were more setbacks. In addition to opposition from the neighbouring Samaritans, the work was hard, the hostility great, land was desolate, and discouragement set in. After all, Babylon was a thriving metropolis will many amenities. Judah, again in their ancestral home, was a shell of its former glory. The Judeans wondered if there was any point to rebuilding at all.

Then, like a bolt from the blue, came the mature-age prophet Haggai. In a series of four messages given over a period of four months, he stirred the people to go back to work, finish the temple, and return to holiness. Their failure to do these things was the prime reason the blessing of God had not fallen upon them. Put God first and your own needs will be wonderfully met (Matthew 6:33).

The Book of Haggai is only 38 verses, the second shortest prophecy after Obadiah, and one of three post-exilic prophetic books, along with Zechariah and Malachi. It was probably the first time Judah had a prophetic word since the exile to Babylon decades before. Yet, within its verses are powerful promises and prophetic insights.

HEBREW NAME OF HAGGAI

Haggay, which could either mean ‘festival’ from the word hag or holiday. An alternative is haggiah, speaking of the festival of Jehovah.

AUTHOR OF HAGGAI

Haggai the prophet was probably in his 70s when he fulfilled his four-month prophetic call. As mentioned, he came with Zerubbabel in the first return from Babylon, just after Cyrus’ decree. Haggai is mentioned nine times in his book and twice in Ezra, though they were not contemporaries (5:1; 6:14).

PORTRAIT OF CHRIST IN HAGGA

Jesus is the ‘desire of all nations’ (2:7)

THEME OF THE BOOK OF HAGGAI

Put God first and all your needs will be met, with manifold blessings. When the Judean remnant put the building of God’s house first, the Lord promised blessings and even greater glory than the temple of Solomon, which was indisputably a grand edifice.

KEY VERSES OF HAGGAI

2:6-9 For thus saith the LORD of hosts; Yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land; 7 And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts. 8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts. 9 The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts. 

TO BE CONTINUED

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UNDERSTAND THE TIMES: What to Watch

 

What to Watch

And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do … – 1 Chronicles 12:32

First, let’s get straight to the point. Our world is in great flux, we live in prophetically significant times, and, more than ever, we need to understand God’s prophetic purposes. Related to this is the goal of ‘understanding the times’ – current events and trends. Here’s a couple of good reasons:

1.     Great Commission (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8): This is the only homework assignment Christ ever gave the Church; and there is no ‘Plan B.’ Since we are called to go into ‘all the world,’ it only makes sense that we know something about this world God called us to. It is our playground and harvest field.

2.     Divine Direction: From the above verse in 1 Chronicles 12, when you ‘understand the times,’ not just what is happening, but why, then God will download to you what you need to do (Romans 12:1-2).

This is one of the key reasons we offer this service, the Issachar Teaching eLetter, to help you understand the times. If you want to make supremely wise decisions, find freedom from fear, prosper in crisis, and live victoriously, you will need to understand the times (UTT) and flow God’s prophetic purposes.

With these points in mind, what should you watch in the days ahead? Discernment and the appropriate action will make a powerful difference.

Understand – We are at war culturally: No, it is not a military engagement we’re talking about, but it is still a war. First, it is a ‘culture war,’ where secular humanism / social progressivism / cultural Marxism are warring against western traditional values, mainly based on Judaeo-Christianity. Just as Mao Zedong had a ‘long march’ in the 1930s which hardened and strengthened his communist followers, the Left has had a decades old ‘long march’ through the institutions of culture: academia, judiciary, media, politics, etc. That’s why so many organs of culture today are left-leaning or even far left. Imagine: Ronald Reagan fought ‘communism’ in Hollywood during the 1940s! This war is increasing in ferocity, with cancel-culture, politics of personal destruction, and heightened vitriol. Parallel to this, and interfaced somewhat, is globalism vs. nationalism, the former desiring if possible a one-world government.

Understand – We are at war spiritually: The culture war pails in comparison to the spiritual war. To understand this, look no further than the Bible itself. Whether it is the conflict with the Prince of Persia in the Book of Daniel (10:13, 20), the spiritual clash in the Book of Revelation, or the exhortation to put on the whole armour of God in Ephesians 6, it is vital that you understand why we face some irrational and crazy situations we have today. We cannot afford to be asleep at the wheel. Positive Note: When you understand the nature of a problem, you are halfway towards the solution. Also, Christ in you, the hope of glory, is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4). Even a Gideon’s small army, teamed up with the living God, is more than able to defeat the enemy, no matter how large or strong (1 Samuel 14:6).

Don’t be surprised there needs to be much prayer, as these wars have been going on for a long times – and the stakes are high. Yet it is the informed, Spirit-filled, prophetically awake and alive church that hold the key to revival. Remember, the Philistines were no mortal threat to Israel while Samuel was in charge – bringing his people to repentance, righteous works, and faith (1 Samuel 7:13). Only when that spirit of revival faded out did the Philistine emerge again on the scene.

Shaking: Anyone who has been following this service called Issachar, or attending one of our ‘Understanding the Times Meetings’ will know this is one of the key planks to understanding the present and future. Haggai 2:6, reiterated and expanded in Hebrews 12:25-29,speaks of a time of universal shaking. The greatest of all will happen at the very end of the age, when even the powers of the heavens shall be shaken (Matthew 24:29).

In the meantime, there are the ‘foreshocks,’ compared to the ‘aftershocks’ of a major earthquake, that we have spoken about in previous messages. The 20th Century was the shakiest in history: Sinking of the Titanic, World War I, Spanish flu pandemic, Great Depression, World War II, and the Cold War. The 21st Century has had some big terror attacks, natural disasters, economic uncertainty, and civil unrest.

Then there is the craziest year of our lives, 2020: Pandemic, recession, riots, American electoral unrest, where is it all taking us?

Positive side: If you hear and do the words of Jesus, you are building your life on the rock and you will withstand all of life’s storms (Matthew 7:24-25). Also, handled carefully and prayerfully, shaking can lead to a spiritual awakening.

Deception: This is also prophesied in Scripture involving end-times living (Matthew 24:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12), gaslighting, double-speak, smoke and mirrors, the putative issue is not the issue at all. What you see is not what you get. The hothouse of deceptions breeds fraud, of which we have seen a lot in 2020

Remember, to stay free an safe from deception, remember the sources of God’s truth:

1.     Jesus (John 14:6);

2.     The Holy Spirit (John 16:13);

3.     The Scriptures (John 17:17).

Some other points to watch:

1.     Battle: It is not over until it’s over. Keep fighting unto victory.

2.     Illusions: What you see is not what you get. Don’t be fooled by an image-driven but illusory world. Discern reality from God’s view, identify fraud, and reject it.

3.     Issue: Noisy leftists will focus on an issue, like race or the environment, but remember: the issue is never the issue. It is something bigger, like global socialism.

4.     Press in: God is calling us to pray for revival, keep praising and keep trusting God, no matter what.

5.     Perseverance: As Churchill said at the height of WW2, ‘Never, never, never, ever, give up.’ That advice is as pertinent today as it was in the 1940s.

Keep these points in mind, focus on God, be ever-praising and thanking Him, and you will position yourself for a brighter future (Proverbs 4:18).

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

The Sixth Commandment Part 01

 

Thou shalt not kill. 

It is simple and straight-to-the-point: You shall not kill. This commandment is found in Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17; and reiterated and amplified in Matthew 5:21. Though brief, this commandment is very profound and speaks about the nature of God, the value of human life, and of a great evil that can destroy body and soul.

As we continue our series on the Ten Commandments, we focus on the sixth   command. Of course, we need to do a word study. The Hebrew word in Exodus for ‘kill’ is רָצַח (ratsach) which means to ’murder,’ ‘assassinate,’ ‘avenge,’ and ‘slay’ in a premeditated fashion.[1] So we can safely say that the sixth commandment means You shall not murder.

Regarding ratsach, it is one of 7 Hebrew words for killing. When it comes to proactive, premeditated murder, this is the most active word that is used.

In Hebrew and in English, there is a distinction between ‘killing’ and ‘murder.’ The former can include killing the enemy in a ‘just war,’ killing in self-defence, and for those who believe in capital punishment, this is state-sanctioned killing as a form of justice. Also, there is involuntary manslaughter (e.g. a person unexpectedly walks in front of a moving car) that is unfortunate but not considered as ratsach. The Torah provided sanctuary for the unintentional killer called a ‘city of refuge.’ On the other hand, murder has no moral, legal, or ethical justification and is to be strongly punished.

God explained to Noah about the connection between the value of man and the depravity of murder. The Lord said in Genesis 9:6: Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. This is coming straight from the mouth of God. Blood represents life and the shedding thereof is death. It is such a serious crime that it calls for capital punishment: when you wantonly shed someone’s blood, you shall be slain in justice. Why? Because men and women are made in the image of God. When we bear this truth in mind, our treatment of others will improve manifold.

The first murder was particularly heinous because Cain, the first-born on the planet, slew his brother Abel out of bald-faced jealousy, since the latter’s offering was accepted by God and Cain’s was not (Genesis 4:8-11) After the murder, God gave Cain a mark so that no one would slay him (talk about mercy in the face of sin – we have no record of Cain repenting).

Biblical evidence is strong that God values the sanctity of life. We not only have the injunction of Genesis 9:6, and also the wise words of Proverb 6:17:   Of the seven things God hates and considers an abomination, includes ‘ … hands that shed innocent blood.’

Consider the following offences in the Law of Moses which are capital crimes:

•   Fatal blow: Striking a man so that he dies – Exodus 21:12.

•   Assaulting parents: Physically assaulting one’s parents – we are called to honour them, not hit them – Exodus 21:15.

•   Kidnapping: Those who kidnaps a person and sell them into slavery, as well as the person who possesses them, shall be put to death – Exodus 21:16.

•   Cursing parents: Whoever curses father and mother shall be executed – Exodus 21:17. This is the second verse within three that exact a high price for dishonouring parents. God takes the parental-child relationship very seriously, since they mirror His relationship with His people We call Him the Heavenly Father.

•   Fatal blow, again: Striking to the point of death a slave, and they die immediately, their death shall be avenged – Exodus 21:20.

•   Harming pregnant women and the unborn: If men are fighting, one strikes a pregnant woman, the child comes out and there is no harm, then there is only a fine. But if harm comes, then ‘then thou shalt give life for life, Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe’ – Exodus 21:22-25. How do you think these verses affect today’s abortion debate?

•   Dangerous beast: The owner of an ox with a track record of assault kills another man, both the ox and owner shall be put to death – Exodus 21:28-29.  


We can say more … but God values life and hates murder. Next time, we will look at the sixth commandment from a New Testament Perspective.

TO BE CONTINUED

[1] “H7523 – ratsach – Strong’s Hebrew Lexicon (KJV).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed 3 Dec, 2020. https://www.blueletterbible.org//lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H7523&t=KJV

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Issues Facing the Church: A Common Act No One Talks About Part 02

 

The Way Forward

Last month we looked at the topic no one talks about, yet is ever-common, called masturbation or self-stimulation (from now on referred to as SS). We looked at the topic from every angle. Yes, it is correct that the Bible does not explicitly mention the practice, so hence there is no blanket commendation or condemnation. It provides a temporary release of energy and there is no danger of catching sexually transmitted diseases.

 Yet, at the same time, we learned that SS is often, even mostly, motivated by lust, visual stimulation like pornography, or worse. It can happen even when the person had not planned for it, at awkward times, hence implying a lack of self-control. It is not an easy habit to quit. Another problem is that there can be a terrible sense of guilt, even though no one (but God) is watching. Along with the guilt is a puzzle: why do many married men practice SS?

Do you do SS or know someone who does? If so, it is up to you, and you alone, to decide whether you want to continue this practice. If you are of the conviction that this is not good for you? Are guilt and lust part of your experience? Despite its addictive side, do you want to break free?

Remember that human effort is normally not enough. After all, it’s not only your actions that have to change, but also your thinking. It must be a holistic effort. Lust in the heart has to be conquered in order to control your actions of your hands. Like in many things, we need God’s help. And, if necessary, confide in a trusted person who can pray and keep you accountable.

Martin Luther was credited with this quote: I can’t stop the birds from flying over my head, but I can keep them from nesting in my hair. Our world is sinful, seductive, and visually stimulating, ever-beckoning to its dark sensuous ways. Proverbs 7:26: For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her.

The following Scriptural practices can help. They can help you overcome in this area, and in any area, which has control over your life. Seek pastoral or mature Christian advice. Some practical tips include:

1.       The Word: Psalm 119:9,11: When you hide God’s word in your heart, you won’t sin against Him. Take a few of the many scripture promises, meditate, memorise, then confess them aloud before the Lord.

2.       The Cross of Jesus: Religion, good works, education, cannot overcome the lust-sin issue. Only the gospel of Christ, with the cross at its centre, can hit a death blow. Romans 6 is your declaration of independence from the sin dominated sex-saturated self-life. You are encouraged to focus on verses 6-14 especially. Again, read, meditate, memorise, and confess.

3.       The Holy Spirit: Be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) and pray in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18). The Holy Spirit is able to put to death the deeds and thoughts of the flesh, which includes lust (Romans 8:13). Remember the injunction of Jude 20 to build yourself up in your most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit. Prayer in the Spirit is powerful and edifying – while you are doing Spirit-prayer, it is virtually impossible to practice the bad habit you eagerly want to break.

4.       Quality Christian music: Listening to anointed music has a great effect on causing lusts to flee.

5.       Praise and worship: Again, if you know how to offer heartfelt praise to God, and you are in a place where others do the same, it also can keep the ‘birds of lust’ from nesting in your hair and head.

In overcoming habits and sins, one of the redemptive features is the more we work with God, His Word and Spirit, the stronger we will become. As Revelation 21:7 promises: He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

 

 

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Beyond Covid-19 Part 06: What Else is God Saying? Prudence

The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going — Proverbs 14:15

With Covid-19 (and lockdowns, recession, riots, and election chaos) dominating our year, it was fitting and proper to ask if there was a word from the Lord. We have spent much of the year looking at this very topic, with things like prosperity in crisis, be strong in the Lord, prophetic time and signs, and courage.

To these we add another wonderful word: prudence. Those who exercise this quality are called prudent. The word ‘prudence’ is used 3 times in the Bible, and ‘prudent’ 24 times. It comes from the Hebrew wordaruwn, meaning ‘subtle, shrewd, sensible, demonstrating preparation and care for the future.’

 In short, the prudent person understands the nature of today and starts to prepare for tomorrow. For example, if you bulk buy necessary things during a crisis, you are considered a selfish hoarder. If you anticipate the shortage and store away in the good times, like Joseph did in the seven years of good harvest, you are considered wise and prudent. And you have enough to share with others!

 Just before the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948 when Israel was born, the Jewish leadership understood two alarming realities:

1.        When the British mandatory officials withdraw their troops – which was a imminent  – there would be an all-out war with the Arabs;

2.        The pipeline from the coast that supplied water to Jerusalem, where 100,000 Jews lived, would be cut off immediately. They had a matter of months to do something about this.

Once the British Mandate ended on 14 May 1948, the pipeline to Jewish Jerusalem was immediately cut. Yet the Jews in Jerusalem did not submit and surrender, nor did they die for lack of water. What happened?

Over the previous months, the Jews in Jerusalem cleaned out the old, ancient cisterns, which are used to store rain water. They fixed them up and then quietly filled them to the brim. British authorities probably noticed the above-average usage of water in the Jerusalem area but did not inquire further. Thus, when the pipeline was cut – right on schedule – Jerusalem’s Jews were prepared.

With such uncertain times, it is prudent to take extra care in the case of shortages.

1.        Petty cash: Have some available when necessary.

2.        Savings: You should have several months of income in savings, just in case the ‘rainy day’ comes, like the loss of a job, or unexpected pregnancy.

3.        Practice good financial practices: Too many people are financially vulnerable and are only one pay check away from bankruptcy. This is not nice or necessary. Learn principles of budgeting, fiscal discipline, living within your means, minimalizing and retiring debt, and the like. That’s prudence.

4.        Food: It never hurts to have an ample supply in storage of non-perishable food stuffs that you use on a regular basis in storage.

5.        First-aid kit: Always a good idea, for the home and car.

6.        Medication: Have an extra supply of these, and include immune-enhancing vitamin supplementation (Vitamin C, D, B vitamins and Zinc).

7.        Batteries, flashlight, candles: Have plenty in hand.

8.        Radio: A battery operated version is a great idea, especially if there is a temporary energy blackout.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, one of the countries that handled it very well was South Korea, despite its proximity to China. This nation practiced what we call ‘containment’ and avoided mass lockdowns. When numbers were rising, they moved the schools to online but businesses remained open (unless there was a localised outbreak). They implemented aggressive rapid testing, contact tracing, and tracking the virus even before symptoms appeared. If people were tested and isolated, they were offered financial help so they did not suffer. They were able to wisely service their people without damaging the economy.

South Korea’s upper hand in the crisis came because of prudence and learning lessons from the past. During the MERS outbreak (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), South Korea had the highest number of cases after Saudi Arabia, the epidemic epi-centre. Its prudence came from the lessons learned during MERS, both the successes and failures.

Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall — 1 Corinthians 10:11-12

That’s why we have a Bible. Learn from the Bible characters, their wise moves and foolish choices (that includes heroes like King David). Emulating successes and avoiding failures is a very prudent thing to do.

Articles, Education, Prophecy

Comment on The Nature of The Prophetic by Kellie Tankard

The Nature of the Prophetic is an incredible book which throughout really reflects and captures the heart of the father.
Such wisdom and insight into how to live a prophetic lifestyle. It’s a practical guide that empowers and challenges you to grow and deepen your relationship with the God.
Whether you are just beginning to explore the prophetic or been on the journey for some time, this book will inspire you to develop your gift and give you the keys to grasp the intention of God not only for others but for yourself!!!!

Articles, Bible, Education, Prophecy, Sexuality, Teaching

Issues Facing the Church: A Common Act No One Talks About – Part 01

It is a most common practice that stretches back to millennia. Yet, when a high-profile television personality was caught doing it on Zoom – not realising the camera was still ‘On’ – he was sent home in disgrace to have some ‘personal time.’ Many people, including Christians, want to ask about this subject but are afraid to ask. How do we handle it from a Biblical perspective?

The ‘subject’ is masturbation, also known as ‘self-stimulation.’

Before we address the issue itself, be assured that it will be handled in a pastoral manner. The goal is to help, not hurt nor condemn, people along the way. No doubt, some who read this article are engaged, casually or regularly, in this practice.

It’s time to have a much needed chat. What are we to make of it?

First, by definition, masturbation (from now on referred to as SS – ‘self-stimulation’) is ‘stimulation of the genitals by hand for sexual pleasure,’ in order to reach a climax – ejaculation or orgasm – without the involvement of their spouse or partner. It is a form of solo-sex. It is mostly done by men but woman can do it, too.

What do we know about this practice? It is a very widespread, involving young and old, single and married, Christian and non-Christian. The fact that people are delaying marriage in our sex-saturated popular culture – with plenty of visuals – means that SS is being done at record levels. With 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns, one can imagine that possibilities.

SS provides a quick and easy ‘release’ if one is feeling aroused but does not have a sexual partner available. It is even considered ‘safe-sex:’ you cannot get someone pregnant or contract STDs (sexually-transmitted diseases) by SS. Furthermore, on the surface, it appears that the Bible is silent about it.

The one Bible story that seems to refer to it involves Onan and Tamar in Genesis 38:9. His older brother, Er, who married to Tamar first, was so wickedness that the Lord slew him. As was the prevailing custom at the time, when a man died childless, his brother married the widow and the first child born was dedicated to the deceased. It is called Levirate marriage and described in more detail in Deuteronomy 25:5-10. It was a form of familial social welfare. Onan did not want to ‘do his duty’ so he spilt his seed en route to Tamar. As a result, the Lord slew him, too — Genesis 38:10.

In times gone by, preachers used this story to scare the daylights out of people if they practiced SS – or even contemplated doing so. Some referred to SS as ‘onanism.’

Yet, in all honesty, the reason Onan was judged was his failure to fulfil the mandate.

Does this mean that it is okay to practice SS? Let us consider the following:

1.       Human sexuality, as the Bible and particularly the New Testament teaches, is an expression of physical love to our spouse. The command that husbands ‘love their wives’ (Ephesians 5:25; Colossians 3:19) includes all areas of being: mental, spiritually, emotional, and physical. The idea is that the couple seeks to fulfil each others sexual needs, not just their own.

2.       On the surface, SS seems similar to sexual intercourse but is actually very different. It strives to fulfil one’s own need without any reference to another. The accent mark of SS is ‘self.’ We are made in the image of God, Who loves and seeks the welfare of the ones He love. With SS, love has nothing to do with it; it is a self-centred mechanical solo act.

3.       Unfortunately, SS often involves lust, either mentally or in visual form like pornography. The Sermon on the Mount teaches that lusting after someone, who is not your spouse, is the same as if they committed the illicit physical sexual act, be it adultery or fornication — Matthew 5:27-28. Please consider.

4.       SS can be very addictive and a difficult habit to break. The more we feed the lust, the more it grows, and the more entrenched the habit becomes. It is the opposite of the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ which includes ‘self-control’ — Galatians 5:22. In other words, SS does not eliminate the lust problem; it exacerbates it.

5.       A sad by-product of SS is a feeling of guilt after the climax, something that doesn’t happen with Biblically ordained sex. The person knows that something is wrong, even if they don’t know why.

6.       Finally, there could come a time when SS is simply no longer satisfying, and the person reaches out for more. The danger is that it could lead to other sexual expressions that are condemned in Scripture, like 3D fornication or prostitution.

7.       In summary, the Bible does not directly talk about SS, but it does deal with lust, lack of self-control, and guilt. These factors make SS a troublesome proposition.

Sometimes, it is possible to have a ‘release’ without any touching and any lustful thoughts. These are called nocturnal emissions or ‘wet dreams.’

Human sexuality is a wonderful gift from Almighty God but it has to be on His terms, not ours. Think of it like electricity: handled correctly, it harnesses beneficial power. Mishandled, it can be deadly.

Now that we have spoken about the problem, in our next article, we will look at tips to lead us to a fulfilling solution. TO BE CONTINUED

 

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

The Fifth Commandment: Honour Your Father & Mother

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee — Exodus 20:12 (KJV)

The 10 Commandments are like 10 rules for life – a good, Godly, blessed life. We have learned that the first four commandments are about God: have no other gods in your life. Do not worship idols. Do not use God’s name in vain. Keep the Sabbath day holy unto the Lord.

The next six commandments are related to our conduct with people. Number five is special: honour your father and your mother. It is very simple: righteous people honour their parents; unrighteous people do not. There is blessing for compliance and curses for failure:

The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it — Proverbs 30:17 (KJV)

The word for ‘honour’ is kabad כָּבַד, related to the word for ‘glory,’ which means heavy. Some other meanings include ‘to be made heavy, be honoured, enjoy honour, be made abundant, glory, honour’[1]

How Do You Honour Your Parents?

Practically speaking, how do you honour your parents? Obedience and respect are good places to start. But what if they are not Christians? The commandment does not give exemptions because of their religious affiliation. My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother – Proverbs 6:20 (KJV)

We honour parents by caring, sharing, and cooperating with them. When they have a need, we meet it if we can. When they age, we continue to provide care where possible.

But if a widow has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show godliness to their own household and to make some return to their parents, for this is pleasing in the sight of God — 1 Timothy 5:4 (ESV)

At the same time, Jesus condemned those who used religious precepts to deprive their parents of what they needed. Such dishonour brings a curse. — Matthew 15:4-6.

In fact, parents are the closest thing to God in your life. They beget, nurture, feed, care, love unconditionally. Sound familiar? That’s what God does. It’s part of the reason Jesus wants us to refer to Almighty God as ‘Heavenly Father.’ That’s why treatment of parents is a litmus test on how we treat God. If you honour the parents you can see, then you’ll honour the Father whom you can’t see.

Remember that the Fifth Commandment is the first to offer a promise: if you honour father and mother, … That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth — Ephesians 6:3b (KJV). Think about it: longevity is not pegged to vitamins, exercise, or diet – but to the fear of the Lord and walking in wisdom (Proverbs 3:2; 16; 4:10; 14:27; 19:23; 22:4), watching your words (Psalm 34:12-13), and honouring your parents.

Scriptural Examples of Honouring Parents

The Scripture is replete with examples of people honouring their father and mother.

Joseph: He put his ageing father and brothers in the best of the land of Egypt where they could tend their flocks and live their lives securely — Genesis 47:12

David: Though he was the youngest son, it was David that looked after his father Jesse and his mother. While fleeing from king Saul and his murderous intentions, he took his parents to the king of Moab and left them in his care while he was on the run — 1 Samuel 22:3-4.  Why Moab? Because his great-grandmother was Ruth the Moabitess.

Solomon: Now king of Israel, honoured his mother Bathsheba by bowing to her. The he gave her an honoured seat next his throne – 1 Kings 2:19-20

Sons of Jonadab: Though he was probably deceased, the children of Jonadab refrained from drinking wine because their father commanded them not to. They obeyed him even when he was not around — Jeremiah 35:8.

Jesus: He is the template of righteous obedience to the commands of God. As a 12 year old, He was at the temple speaking to the chief priests. When he parents came to get him, the Scripture says he returned with them to Nazareth and ‘was subject unto them …’ — Luke 2:51.

Care from the Cross: Jesus’ care for His mother was evident even while He suffered on the cross. While his mother Mary and John the beloved disciple were watching, He commended John to Mary and Mary to John. And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home — John 19:25-27. Though Mary had other sons, it was the Son who honoured her.

One of the fundamental precepts of Scripture is the law of sowing and reaping. If you sow sparingly, you will reap sparingly, if you sow abundantly, you will reap abundantly (2 Corinthians 9:6). Here is another incentive for obeying the Fifth Commandment: if you honour your parents now, when your turn comes you, your children will honour you. The opposite is also true.

Come to think of it, honouring your parents is not just the right thing to do, it is a blessed thing, too.


[1] “H3513 – kabad – Strong’s Hebrew Lexicon (KJV).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed 5 Nov, 2020. https://www.blueletterbible.org//lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H3513&t=KJV

Articles, Education, Prophecy, Teaching

The Day of the Lord – Amplified: Why Study the Book of Zephaniah Part 02

 

In Part 01, we learned that Zephaniah, the ‘hidden one,’ lived near the end of the kingdom of Judah, especially, after the evil reigns of kings Manasseh and Amon. He inspired king Josiah and the prophet Jeremiah, and Jesus Christ quoted him (1:3 cf Matthew 13:41; 1:15 cf Matthew 24:29). His is the most concise, comprehensive description of the key period known as the ‘day of the Lord’ (1:14-15). Just as Zephaniah was ‘hidden’ from the evil designs of Manasseh, so the meek who seek the Lord may be hidden in the day of the Lord’s anger (2:3).

In order to encourage serious study of Zephaniah and other books of the Bible, we offer this concise background information. 

SUMMARY OF ZEPHANIAH

Judah and Jerusalem in the days of good king Josiah are the immediate objects of Zephaniah’s prophecy. By this time, the Northern Kingdom of Israel had already been deported a century earlier in 722 BC. Zephaniah’s ministry may have spawned king Josiah’s reformation, where he destroyed the altars of Baal, burning the bones of false prophets, getting rid of the incense altars, breaking down the images of Ashera. Later, when Hilkiah found the Book of the Law (most probably Deuteronomy) in the temple, a second reformation commenced. Most probably the young Jeremiah was also greatly influenced by the older prophet.

The Day of the Lord is mentioned or alluded to 23 times. What is the Day of the Lord? It is the time of judgement, return, and restoration; the tribulation followed by the Millennium. It is when God’s righteous anger finally spills out after showing legendary patience. While people don’t like the idea of God being angry, it comes after a long wait and is righteously executed. Jesus, who is the Son of God and image of God, showed this same anger when He cleansed the temple (John 2:14-17).

1. Judah would be judged, Day of Judgement for God’s people comes first 1 Peter 4:17 –  For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

2. Followed by the judgement of the nearby nations – he prophesied the downfall of Assyria and Nineveh fell in 612 BC. (Zephaniah 2; Rev 4-15);

3. Jerusalem & the whole world will be judged (3:1-8 cf Revelation 20).

DISTINCTIVE OF ZEPHANIAH 

1.       Gives his genealogy, though we know nothing else about him;

2.       Most concise and extensive description of the Day of the Lord;

3.       God’s people are recipients of strong warnings and promises of restoration; 

4.       Coverage of faithful remnant (3:9-20) restored when God comes;

5.       Sets template of wrath against the wicked and salvation for the just, a clear New Testament theme;

6.       Parallels the Book of Revelation: Both speak of God’s people judged first; then the judgement of the nations; finally, what we know as the Last Judgement (3:1-8 cf Revelation 20).

7.       Of the 400 Old Testament allusions (rather than direct quotes) in Revelation, it is possible that Zephaniah comes closest to it. 

OUTLINE OF ZEPHANIAH

Introduction (1:1)

I.         Judgment in the Day of the Lord (1:2-3:8)

A.     Judgement on the World (1:2-3)

B.      Judgement on Judah (1:4-18)

1.       Judah’s sins (1:4-9)

2.       Warning to Jerusalem (1:10-13)

3.       The Great & Notable Day of the Lord (1:14-18)

C.      Call to Repentance (2:1-3)

D.     Judgement on the Nations (2:4-15)

1.       Philistia (2:4-7)

2.       Ammon & Moab (2:8-11)

3.       Cush (2:12)

4.       Assyria (2:13-15)

E.      Judgement on Jerusalem (3:1-7)

1.       Jerusalem’s sins (3:1-4)

2.       God’s Justice and Jerusalem (3:5-7)

F.       Judgement on the World (3:8)

II.      Restoration & Salvation in the Day of the Lord (3:9-20)

A.     Faithful Remnant Restored & Jerusalem Cleansed (3:9-13)

B.      Rejoicing People with God in the Midst (3:14-17)

C.      Promise of Restoration (3:18-20)