Olive Trees and Lamps - Rumor notes 71

 Revelation 11

4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands, standing before the Lord of the earth.

the two olive trees

The angel who talked with me came again, and wakened me, as a man who is wakened out of his sleep. He said to me, "What do you see?" I said, "I have seen, and behold, a lampstand all of gold, with its bowl on the top of it, and its seven lamps thereon; there are seven pipes to each of the lamps, which are on the top of it; and two olive trees by it, one on the right side of the bowl, and the other on the left side of it."

I answered and spoke to the angel who talked with me, saying, "What are these, my lord?" Then the angel who talked with me answered me, "Don't you know what these are?" I said, "No, my lord." Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, "This is the word of Yahweh to Zerubbabel, saying, 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says Yahweh of Armies. Who are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you are a plain; and he will bring out the capstone with shouts of 'Grace, grace, to it!'" Moreover the word of Yahweh came to me, saying, "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house. His hands shall also finish it; and you will know that Yahweh of Armies has sent me to you. Indeed, who despises the day of small things? For these seven shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. These are the eyes of Yahweh, which run back and forth through the whole earth."

Then I asked him, "What are these two olive trees on the right side of the lampstand and on the left side of it?" I asked him the second time, "What are these two olive branches, which are beside the two golden spouts, that pour the golden oil out of themselves?" He answered me, "Don't you know what these are?" I said, "No, my lord." Then he said, "These are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth." (Zechariah 4:1-14)

As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and dazzling. Behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:29-31)

But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in God's house. I trust in God's loving kindness forever and ever. I will give you thanks forever, because you have done it. I will hope in your name, for it is good, in the presence of your saints. (Psalms 52:8-9)

Given the descriptions of the activities of these two witnesses, the evidence seems to lean toward them being in reference to the characters of Elijah and Moses. The question then arises, how accurate is the testimony of these witnesses? Given the following passages linked to them, we have to take into account the implications of other clues.

Then shall the cities of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem go and cry to the gods to which they offer incense: but they will not save them at all in the time of their trouble. For according to the number of your cities are your gods, Judah; and according to the number of the streets of Jerusalem have you set up altars to the shameful thing, even altars to burn incense to Baal. Therefore don't you pray for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them; for I will not hear them in the time that they cry to me because of their trouble.

What has my beloved to do in my house, seeing she has worked lewdness with many, and the holy flesh is passed from you? when you do evil, then you rejoice.

Yahweh called your name, A green olive tree, beautiful with goodly fruit: with the noise of a great tumult he has kindled fire on it, and the branches of it are broken. For Yahweh of Armies, who planted you, has pronounced evil against you, because of the evil of the house of Israel and of the house of Judah, which they have worked for themselves in provoking me to anger by offering incense to Baal.

Yahweh gave me knowledge of it, and I knew it: then you shown me their doings. But I was like a gentle lamb that is led to the slaughter; and I didn't know that they had devised devices against me, saying, Let us destroy the tree with the fruit of it, and let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be no more remembered. But, Yahweh of Armies, who judges righteously, who tests the heart and the mind, I shall see your vengeance on them; for to you have I revealed my cause.

(Jeremiah 11:12-20)

Just because some group has been called by God to be His witnesses does not preclude the potential that they can so distort that privilege that God has to finally reject their testimony because it is only accomplishing the opposite from what they were called to do. One of the most dangerous notions that people of God become trapped in is the belief that because God chose them as a people to bear His name, that no matter how negligent they have become, God does reverse His gifting to them or revoke His covenant with them. This has been a problem of God's chosen people many times throughout history, including while Jesus was living among His fellow Jews on earth.

Paul picks up on this in a way that resonates with what we are finding regarding these two witnesses. Consider this sobering advice given to those who were replacing the people who had failed their calling by God and had been broken off from the true trunk of the olive tree.

But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them, and became partaker with them of the root and of the richness of the olive tree; don't boast over the branches. But if you boast, it is not you who support the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, "Branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in." True; by their unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by your faith. Don't be conceited, but fear; for if God didn't spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. See then the goodness and severity of God. Toward those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in his goodness; otherwise you also will be cut off. (Romans 11:17-22)

There is an interesting passage in Isaiah that can relate to this. But the only translation I have found that makes this connection clear is the literal translation from the Greek Septuagint called the Apostolic Bible Polyglot. And while it does not specifically mention an olive tree, the message that comes through regarding God's attitude toward branches is quite revealing.

And you shall say to him, Guard to be still, and do not fear! nor your soul be weak from the two trees of these smoking firebrands; for whenever the anger of my rage takes place, again I will heal.

(Isaiah 7:4 ABP)

the two lampstands

He said to me, "What do you see?" I said, "I have seen, and behold, a lampstand all of gold, with its bowl on the top of it, and its seven lamps thereon; there are seven pipes to each of the lamps, which are on the top of it; and two olive trees by it, one on the right side of the bowl, and the other on the left side of it."

I answered and spoke to the angel who talked with me, saying, "What are these, my lord?" Then the angel who talked with me answered me, "Don't you know what these are?" I said, "No, my lord." Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, "This is the word of Yahweh to Zerubbabel, saying, 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says Yahweh of Armies. Who are you, great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you are a plain; and he will bring out the capstone with shouts of 'Grace, grace, to it!'" (Zechariah 4:2-7)

There is a fascinating connection that may need closer examination involving these olive trees, lampstands and an additional feature – a mountain. I think we need to explore this more closely because they are interconnected in this prophecy in Zechariah with the symbols of the olive trees and the lampstands. This may reveal clues that might resonate with other things in Revelation and could enhance our capacity to perceive deeper insights as to the identity of these two witnesses.

I will render to Babylon and to all the inhabitants of Chaldea all their evil that they have done in Zion in your sight, says Yahweh. Behold, I am against you, destroying mountain, says Yahweh, which destroys all the earth; and I will stretch out my hand on you, and roll you down from the rocks, and will make you a burnt mountain. They shall not take of you a stone for a corner, nor a stone for foundations; but you shall be desolate for ever, says Yahweh. (Jeremiah 51:24-26)

The second angel sounded, and something like a great burning mountain was thrown into the sea. One third of the sea became blood, (Revelation 8:8)

These words Yahweh spoke to all your assembly on the mountain out of the midst of the fire, of the cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he added no more. He wrote them on two tables of stone, and gave them to me. (Deuteronomy 5:22)

This is the blessing, with which Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before his death. He said, Yahweh came from Sinai, And rose from Seir to them. He shone forth from Mount Paran. He came from the ten thousands of holy ones. At his right hand was a fiery law for them.

(Deuteronomy 33:1-2)

He said, Go forth, and stand on the mountain before Yahweh. Behold, Yahweh passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before Yahweh; but Yahweh was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but Yahweh was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but Yahweh was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

(1 Kings 19:11-12)

After six days, Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up into a high mountain by themselves. He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light. Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him. (Matthew 17:1-3)

Moses led the people out of the camp to meet God; and they stood at the lower part of the mountain. Mount Sinai, the whole of it, smoked, because Yahweh descended on it in fire; and its smoke ascended like the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mountain quaked greatly. (Exodus 19:17-18)

For you have not come to a mountain that might be touched, and that burned with fire, and to blackness, darkness, storm, the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which those who heard it begged that not one more word should be spoken to them, for they could not stand that which was commanded, "If even an animal touches the mountain, it shall be stoned;" and so fearful was the appearance, that Moses said, "I am terrified and trembling."

But you have come to Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable multitudes of angels, to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better than that of Abel. (Hebrews 12:18-24)

What is emerging from these passages appears to reflect transitions that have taken place throughout history in how God's people perceive Him and related to Him. I wonder if these symbolic two witnesses represent old ways that God was perceived through the mindset and modeling of Moses and Elijah. It is clear in the following verses that the actions of these witnesses parallel actions carried out by these two prophets. So what kind of conclusion does this suggest? Are these witnesses false witnesses, true witnesses or merely less than fully informed witnesses with good motives but immature ideas about God's heart and the methods they expect Him to use to overcome evil?

One more thought relating to the two lampstands symbolism. It has been noted that there are only two assemblies in the addresses of Jesus, that did not receive any negative feedback or reprimand from Him. An interesting distinction between the two is that apparently one is warned that they will suffer death while the second one is promised to be spared from that kind of testing.

To the angel of the assembly in Smyrna write: "The first and the last, who was dead, and has come to life says these things: "I know your works, oppression, and your poverty (but you are rich), and the blasphemy of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Don't be afraid of the things which you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested; and you will have oppression for ten days. Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. He who overcomes won't be harmed by the second death. (Revelation 2:8-11)

To the angel of the assembly in Philadelphia write: "He who is holy, he who is true, he who has the key of David, he who opens and no one can shut, and who shuts and no one opens, says these things: I know your works (behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one can shut), that you have a little power, and kept my word, and didn't deny my name. Behold, I give of the synagogue of Satan, of those who say they are Jews, and they are not, but lie. Behold, I will make them to come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

Because you kept my command to endure, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, which is to come on the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. I am coming quickly! Hold firmly that which you have, so that no one takes your crown.

He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will go out from there no more. I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, and my own new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the assemblies. (Revelation 3:7-13)

You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can't be hidden. Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house. Even so, let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Don't think that I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I didn't come to destroy, but to fulfill. (Matthew 5:14-17)

standing before the Lord of the earth

Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passes over before you into the Jordan. Now therefore take twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, for every tribe a man. It shall come to pass, when the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of Yahweh, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, that the waters of the Jordan shall be cut off, even the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand in one heap. (Joshua 3:11-13)

The mountains melt like wax at the presence of Yahweh, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. (Psalms 97:5)

For your Maker is your husband; Yahweh of Armies is his name: and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; the God of the whole earth shall he be called. (Isaiah 54:5)

Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion; for I will make your horn iron, and I will make your hoofs brass; and you will beat in pieces many peoples: and I will devote their gain to Yahweh, and their substance to the Lord of the whole earth. (Micah 4:13)

Then he said, "These are the two anointed ones who stand by the Lord of the whole earth." (Zechariah 4:14)

The angel answered me, "These are the four winds of the sky, which go forth from standing before the Lord of all the earth." (Zechariah 6:5)

What are we to make of these mixed signals found in these references to the Lord of all the earth? We have already seen repeatedly how symbols and nuances in this book must be given very close attention, as they often have been overlooked in a rush to force them to fit traditional conclusions. We need to be more diligent and open to receiving new insights to allow the Spirit of truth to guide us into deeper understandings that correspond with the truth as revealed by the Lamb against every other agenda.

Discerning the meaning of this title Lord of all the earth may hold much significance for helping to unlock the mystery of the deeper meanings of these two witnesses.

Additionally, I find a number of references using this phrase that connect directly with the symbol of a mountain. We just reviewed this connected with two other symbols in this prophecy, so I find this compelling. This is likely a useful key for discerning more of what these witnesses are about. In particular, I find in Micah 4 a number of significant clues that may also help bring us closer to understanding the nature of what this chapter may be designed to reveal. That chapter begins with reference to mountains and ends with mention of this phrase Lord of all the earth. Even more importantly, we find a very strong clue in both of these locations that I feel may be a vital key to unlock far more than we might be expecting when it comes to these two witnesses.

But in the latter days, it will happen that the mountain of Yahweh's temple will be established on the top of the mountains, and it will be exalted above the hills; and peoples will stream to it. Many nations will go and say, "Come, and let us go up to the mountain of Yahweh, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths." For out of Zion will go forth the law, and the word of Yahweh from Jerusalem; (Micah 4:1-2)

But they don't know the thoughts of Yahweh, neither do they understand his counsel; for he has gathered them like the sheaves to the threshing floor. Arise and thresh, daughter of Zion; for I will make your horn iron, and I will make your hoofs brass; and you will beat in pieces many peoples: and I will devote their gain to Yahweh, and their substance to the Lord of the whole earth.

(Micah 4:12-13)

Is it possible that there could be a difference of meaning between Yahweh here and the meaning of the Lord of the whole earth? I understand the literal method of Hebrew parallelism or repetition, and according to that this would be seen as saying the same thing with different words. But what if God is nuancing this to disclose something more profound than our simplistic way of typical interpretation here? Is that possible or credible enough to consider?

What if mountains might at least in part represent various figures throughout history that loom large in shaping our perceptions about God, people like Moses and Elijah for instance? This tells us that in the latter days – that would seem to apply to us more than anyone previous would it not – the mountain of Yah's temple will be established at the very top of all other mountains. Then in this context that we read that He will teach us of His ways. Wouldn't that imply this is necessary because we do not yet really know His ways?

This is reinforced at the end of the chapter where it talks about not knowing the thoughts of Yahweh or understanding His counsel. Some might rush to insist that this only refers to the enemies of Zion, in this case other nations assembled against God's people. Yet all of these are symbols that resonate with similar issues still very much present today. The problem all along has been that humanity does not know the thoughts or ways of Yahweh, often because they resist knowing them, not always because of ignorance. This is a theme that I am finding more clearly everywhere I look in Scripture as well as here in the book of Revelation. A principle is to use the first key given in the book, and filter everything we read as synchronized by the truth about God that Jesus alone brings to light, and that eclipses every other version of God including those of Moses and Elijah.

If the best interpretation we find in the end as to the meaning of these two witnesses is to embody the methods and motives of Elijah and Moses and all who share their immature views of God and how He uses power, it occurred to me that rather than the traditional view of them representing the Old and New Testaments, they could represent the Law and the Prophets meaning that the New Testament is more in line with representing Jesus rather than as a second witness. And I believe this may be confirmed rather succinctly in the event that happened on the mount of transfiguration When God contrasted their inferior testimonies to the authentic witness of His Son who is to have the final word over any other testimony.

But I tell you the truth: There are some of those who stand here, who will in no way taste of death, until they see the Kingdom of God." It happened about eight days after these sayings, that he took with him Peter, John, and James, and went up onto the mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and dazzling.

Behold, two men were talking with him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory, and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they were fully awake, they saw his glory, and the two men who stood with him. It happened, as they were parting from him, that Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good for us to be here. Let's make three tents: one for you, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah," not knowing what he said.

While he said these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered into the cloud. A voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him!" When the voice came, Jesus was found alone. They were silent, and told no one in those days any of the things which they had seen. (Luke 9:27-36)

Prophecy Time - Rumor notes 70

 Revelation 11

3 I will give [power] to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth." 4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands, standing before the Lord of the earth.

one thousand two hundred sixty days

The woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God, that there they may nourish her one thousand two hundred sixty days. (Revelation 12:6)

This period of time shows up in various formats a total of five times throughout Revelation. An interesting clue as to its meaning emerges by comparing the formats. Interestingly each time it is presented as 42 months, as well as when 42 is used in reference to other stories in Scripture, it involves violence and aggression. When this is formated as days, it seems to be related with God's witnesses, while when stated as times it involves times of warfare against God's people.

Months and 42

The cities which you shall give to the Levites, they shall be the six cities of refuge, which you shall give for the manslayer to flee to: and besides them you shall give forty-two cities. All the cities which you shall give to the Levites shall be forty-eight cities; them shall you give with their suburbs.

(Numbers 35:6-7)

[Elisha] went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up by the way, some youths came out of the city and mocked him, and said to him, Go up, you baldy; go up, you baldhead. He looked behind him and saw them, and cursed them in the name of Yahweh. Two female bears came out of the woods, and mauled forty-two of those youths. (2 Kings 2:23-24)

A reed like a rod was given to me. Someone said, "Rise, and measure God's temple, and the altar, and those who worship in it. Leave out the court which is outside of the temple, and don't measure it, for it has been given to the nations. They will tread the holy city under foot for forty-two months. (Revelation 11:1-2)

They worshiped the dragon, because he gave his authority to the beast, and they worshiped the beast, saying, "Who is like the beast? Who is able to make war with him?" A mouth speaking great things and blasphemy was given to him. Authority to make war for forty-two months was given to him. (Revelation 13:4-5)

Days and 1260 (sometimes relying on the day for a year prophetic multiplier)

After the three and a half days, the breath of life from God entered into them, and they stood on their feet. Great fear fell on those who saw them. (Revelation 11:11)

He shall make a firm covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the offering to cease; and on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate; and even to the full end, and that determined, shall wrath be poured out on the desolate. (Daniel 9:27)

It happened after many days, that the word of Yahweh came to Elijah, in the third year, saying, Go, show yourself to Ahab; and I will send rain on the earth. (1 Kings 18:1)

But truly I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the sky was shut up three years and six months, when a great famine came over all the land. (Luke 4:25)

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and it didn't rain on the earth for three years and six months. He prayed again, and the sky gave rain, and the earth brought forth its fruit. (James 5:17-18)

Yahweh prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. (Jonah 1:17)

For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (Matthew 12:40)

and saying, "You who destroy the temple, and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross!" (Matthew 27:40)

Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." The Jews therefore said, "Forty-six years was this temple in building, and will you raise it up in three days?"

(John 2:19-20)

saying, "Sir, we remember what that deceiver said while he was still alive: 'After three days I will rise again.' (Matthew 27:63)

"We heard him say, 'I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another made without hands.'" (Mark 14:58)

He was without sight for three days, and neither ate nor drank. Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias!" He said, "Behold, it's me, Lord." The Lord said to him, "Arise, and go to the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one named Saul, a man of Tarsus. For behold, he is praying, and in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in, and laying his hands on him, that he might receive his sight." (Acts 9:9-12)

Time and Times Again

When the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child. Two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, that she might fly into the wilderness to her place, so that she might be nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. (Revelation 12:13-14)

I heard the man clothed in linen, who was above the waters of the river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand to heaven, and swore by him who lives forever that it shall be for a time, times, and a half; and when they have made an end of breaking in pieces the power of the holy people, all these things shall be finished. (Daniel 12:7)

This last passage parallels one we just studied in the previous chapter. Only there we heard this same man declare, in contrast to predicting a time period of 1260, that now there would be no more delay. How are we to understand this?

Many insist that all these numbers only point back to historical fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and this one was fulfilled during the time of intense darkness and persecution of God's true followers during the Dark Ages. I do not dispute that this number can apply to that period of time. However the question remaining is this: Is that the only valid application of this number? Personally I find compelling reasons to believe there are likely multiple applications for these prophecies, particularly in Revelation and including this one. I remain open to allowing that prophetic time periods presented in Revelation, may apply to future and/or current events, and as history approaches the final climax of crisis for the empire of evil I believe God will not leave us ignorant of important time periods that will involve. I believe it is possible that these numbers may also predict periods of time relating to current and future events that involve similar principles as in the past. At the same time I also realize it can be hazardous to attempt to predict precisely just how or when these predictions will play out in future events before they transpire.

I don't believe that these future time periods are to be understood as involving the prophetic multiplier of the day for a year principle in this venue. If these periods indeed apply to future events (and I believe there is good evidence for that), they will not be anchored to specific points in history as previous prophecies were, but rather will play out involving similar principles as in the past, while being initiated by new anchor-points in time. There are some that have studied more deeply into this idea and have discovered significant evidence that supports this scenario, But it is not something I want to spend a lot of time on here except to point out that I am open to considering this approach so long as such interpretations fit the primary criteria being used here to interpret what we read.

clothed in sackcloth

I saw when he opened the sixth seal, and there was a great earthquake. The sun became black as sackcloth made of hair, and the whole moon became as blood. (Revelation 6:12)

Keep in mind we are still in the time of the 6^th trumpet and before the 7^th trumpet. This last verse is the only other place in Revelation where sackcloth is mentioned, and it is part of the description of the effect of the Lamb breaking open the 6^th seal. I believe this is not a coincidence.

If I'm correct, sackcloth can refer to tent material which was typically made from the hair of goats or camels. When a person went inside the tent when it was sunny outside, light would filter through the cloth and look like stars. When it rained, the moisture would swell the hairs causing the holes to close, thus effectively sealing out the water until it dried out again and the holes open up. There may be some useful symbolism here to ponder.

However and most importantly, this connects us directly to something significant within the message of the 6^th seal, so whatever interpretation we settle on as to the meaning of that symbol may have parallel links to what we find as the meaning of these two witnesses.

There are at least two ways to view the 6^th seal. One is the traditional view that it unequivocally refers to the Second Coming of Christ. That is what I assumed all my life until a few months ago when someone pointed out details that arouse serious questions. Now I am more open to more options, for the arguments that suggest it may be describing a counterfeit Second Coming seem compelling. I am also open to accepting that it could be interpreted both ways, though not in the same line of explaining the rest of the seals. For me it makes sense that all of the seals are exposures of fakes, counterfeits, frauds perpetrated by the enemy. So to interpret that the 6^th seal as also an exposure of a counterfeit would fit much better into the overall pattern with the rest when viewed in that way.

Either way, what might it mean for the sun to be darkened like sackcloth of hair? And why would this be, either for the real Second Coming or for a counterfeit one? How would the literal sun look, or what does this represent if viewed as symbolic more than literal?

How might that contribute to understanding why these two witnesses prophecy for 1260 days in sackcloth? Is this in sympathy with the sun that wears sackcloth in the 6^th seal? Is the sun in sackcloth a precursor of this prophecy seen here? Let's review more passages relating to sackcloth to see how they might provide additional clues.

Jacob tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his waist, and mourned for his son many days. (Genesis 37:34)

It happened, when Ahab heard those words, that he tore his clothes, and put sackcloth on his flesh, and fasted, and lay in sackcloth, and went softly. The word of Yahweh came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, See you how Ahab humbles himself before me? because he humbles himself before me, I will not bring the evil in his days; but in his son's days will I bring the evil on his house. (1 Kings 21:27-29)

Now when Mordecai found out all that was done, Mordecai tore his clothes, and put on sackcloth with ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and wailed loudly and a bitterly. (Esther 4:1)

You have turned my mourning into dancing for me. You have removed my sackcloth, and clothed me with gladness, (Psalms 30:11)

It shall happen that instead of sweet spices, there shall be rottenness; instead of a belt, a rope; instead of well set hair, baldness; instead of a robe, a girding of sackcloth; and branding instead of beauty. (Isaiah 3:24)

Therefore in that day the Lord GOD of hosts called you to weeping, to wailing, to shaving the head and to wearing sackcloth. Instead, there is gaiety and gladness, killing of cattle and slaughtering of sheep, eating of meat and drinking of wine: "Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we may die." But the LORD of hosts revealed Himself to me, "Surely this iniquity shall not be forgiven you until you die," says the Lord GOD of hosts. (Isaiah 22:12-14 NAS95)

Thus says Yahweh, Where is the bill of your mother's divorce, with which I have put her away? or which of my creditors is it to whom I have sold you? Behold, for your iniquities were you sold, and for your transgressions was your mother put away. Why, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there none to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it can't redeem? or have I no power to deliver? Behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stink, because there is no water, and die for thirst. I clothe the heavens with blackness, and I make sackcloth their covering. The Lord Yahweh has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with words him who is weary: he wakens morning by morning, he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught. The Lord Yahweh has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away backward. I gave my back to the strikers, and my cheeks to those who plucked off the hair; I didn't hide my face from shame and spitting. For the Lord Yahweh will help me; therefore I have not been confounded: therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be disappointed. He is near who justifies me; who will bring charges against me? Let us stand up together: who is my adversary? Let him come near to me. Behold, the Lord Yahweh will help me; who is he who shall condemn me? Behold, all they shall wax old as a garment, the moth shall eat them up. (Isaiah 50:1-9)

All hands shall be feeble, and all knees shall be weak as water. They shall also gird themselves with sackcloth, and horror shall cover them; and shame shall be on all faces, and baldness on all their heads. They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be as an unclean thing; their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of Yahweh: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their bowels; because it has been the stumbling block of their iniquity. As for the beauty of his ornament, he set it in majesty; but they made the images of their abominations and their detestable things therein: therefore have I made it to them as an unclean thing.

(Ezekiel 7:17-20)

All who handled the oar, the mariners, and all the pilots of the sea, shall come down from their ships; they shall stand on the land, and shall cause their voice to be heard over you, and shall cry bitterly, and shall cast up dust on their heads, they shall wallow themselves in the ashes: and they shall make themselves bald for you, and gird them with sackcloth, and they shall weep for you in bitterness of soul with bitter mourning. (Ezekiel 27:29-31)

Mourn like a virgin dressed in sackcloth for the husband of her youth! (Joel 1:8)

Put on sackcloth and mourn, you priests! Wail, you ministers of the altar. Come, lie all night in sackcloth, you ministers of my God, for the meal offering and the drink offering are withheld from your God's house. (Joel 1:13)

I will turn your feasts into mourning, and all your songs into lamentation; and I will make you wear sackcloth on all your bodies, and baldness on every head. I will make it like the mourning for an only son, and the end of it like a bitter day. (Amos 8:10)

The people of Nineveh believed God; and they proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them. The news reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, and took off his royal robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. He made a proclamation and published through Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, "Let neither man nor animal, herd nor flock, taste anything; let them not feed, nor drink water; but let them be covered with sackcloth, both man and animal, and let them cry mightily to God. Yes, let them turn everyone from his evil way, and from the violence that is in his hands. (Jonah 3:5-8)

Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon which were done in you, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. (Luke 10:13)

Based on these passages, sackcloth was most often associated with mourning, with foreboding, with repentance as well as a turning to God for mercy and/or protection from impending disaster. It is sometimes contrasted with rejoicing and celebration. I suppose this was because sackcloth is inherently uncomfortable to wear as it is likely quite scratchy on the bare skin. What this might promote is a synchronization of the external feelings with one's internal state of emotions.

In our next study we will take a look at the meaning of the olive trees and lampstands as early descriptors of the nature of these two witnesses.

Two Witnesses - Rumor notes 69

Revelation 11

3 I will give [power] to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth." 4 These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands, standing before the Lord of the earth.

I will give power

There is a compelling error in translation here to correct. The word power is not in the Greek. If we were to translate it more literally, this could read: I will give of myself to my two witnesses...

This makes a huge difference in how we perceive the meaning of this passage. To give power or to give of Himself may or may not mean the same thing, depending on how we define the idea of power. Most of the time power is something humans crave, but generally they want to use it in very different ways from how the Lamb uses and defines power. One of our stanch principles used in this study is that no interpretation is to violate the truth that God is just as Jesus reveals Him to be. The especially applies to the issue of power as it is one of the core issues of contention in this war.

To expand on this a bit more, the next phrase fits well with this insight from the Greek. To prophecy means to speak on behalf of God, to share what is received from God in ways that edify, warn, correct and clarify the truth as it is in Jesus. With this meaning of what prophesying is all about, it would make sense to receive Jesus so as to best be able to speak on God's behalf rather than what is usually imagined when thinking of the word power.

Here are a few more related things Jesus has promised to give to us.

I will give to eat of the tree of life

I will give to him to sit down with me on my throne

I will give freely to him who is thirsty from the spring of the water of life

The bread which I will give for the life of the world is my flesh

I will give you rest

I will give to you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven

I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to withstand or to contradict

I confer on you a kingdom

The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many

The man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all

This issue actually becomes key for examining the nature of the testimony and actions of these two witnesses. Let us keep in mind to compare their testimony with how the Lamb testified about His Father while living under intense pressure among sinners here on earth.

my two witnesses

Yahweh said, "Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous, I will go down now, and see whether their deeds are as bad as the reports which have come to me. If not, I will know." The men turned from there, and went toward Sodom, but Abraham stood yet before Yahweh. (Genesis 18:20-22)

Notice that the 'men' who went on to Sodom were likely angels, while the One remaining to talk with Abraham was likely the pre-incarnate Christ. There can be discrepancies between how God relates to situations compared to how angels or other witnesses deal with situations. Understanding this requires an appreciation of the nature of the overall war and the nature of the freedom God gives to all His servants to think for themselves and even deviate to His view of things without censure or acting as a dictator. This too is one of the pivotal issues in the war between goodness and evil, for without this freedom it is impossible for love and respect to thrive and flourish.

The two angels came to Sodom at evening. Lot sat in the gate of Sodom. Lot saw them, and rose up to meet them. He bowed himself with his face to the earth, and he said, "See now, my lords, please turn aside into your servant's house, stay all night, wash your feet, and you will rise up early, and go on your way." They said, "No, but we will stay in the street all night." (Genesis 19:1-2)

Moses went out, and told the people the words of Yahweh: and he gathered seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the Tent. Yahweh came down in the cloud, and spoke to him, and took of the Spirit that was on him, and put it on the seventy elders: and it happened that when the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied, but they did so no more. But there remained two men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested on them; and they were of those who were written, but had not gone out to the Tent; and they prophesied in the camp. There ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp. Joshua the son of Nun, the minister of Moses, one of his chosen men, answered, My lord Moses, forbid them. Moses said to him, Are you jealous for my sake? would that all Yahweh's people were prophets, that Yahweh would put his Spirit on them! (Numbers 11:24-29)

At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he who is to die be put to death; at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death. (Deuteronomy 17:6)

One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sins: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall a matter be established. (Deuteronomy 19:15)

This is one place where I sense that a principle of creation is being laid out plainly. This is highly significant for appreciating the methods that God chooses to stick with to overcome the vicious and subtle attacks of the enemy who has been undermining confidence in His ways, motives and integrity since the inception of sin. God does not demand that we establish what we believe to be truth simply because God says something. Rather God allows even His own testimony to be tested and evaluated by corroboration and evidence provided by at least two or three other witnesses. This challenges a great deal of theology in our world, but it also gives us insight into the nature and disposition of the God who has all power but never abuses that for His own advantage.

Behold, I and the children whom Yahweh has given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from Yahweh of Armies, who dwells in Mount Zion. When they tell you, "Consult with those who have familiar spirits and with the wizards, who chirp and who mutter:" shouldn't a people consult with their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living? Turn to the law and to the testimony! If they don't speak according to this word, surely there is no morning for them. They will pass through it, sore distressed and hungry; and it will happen that when they are hungry, they will worry, and curse by their king and by their God. They will turn their faces upward, and look to the earth, and see distress, darkness, and the gloom of anguish. They will be driven into thick darkness. (Isaiah 8:18-22)

Where then are your wise men? Let them tell you now; and let them know what Yahweh of Armies has purposed concerning Egypt. The princes of Zoan have become fools. The princes of Memphis are deceived. They have caused Egypt to go astray, who are the cornerstone of her tribes. Yahweh has mixed a spirit of perverseness in the midst of her; and they have caused Egypt to go astray in all of its works, like a drunken man staggers in his vomit. Neither shall there be for Egypt any work, which head or tail, palm branch or rush, may do.

In that day the Egyptians will be like women. They will tremble and fear because of the shaking of the hand of Yahweh of Armies, which he shakes over them. The land of Judah will become a terror to Egypt. Everyone to whom mention is made of it will be afraid, because of the plans of Yahweh of Armies, which he determines against it. In that day, there will be five cities in the land of Egypt that speak the language of Canaan, and swear to Yahweh of Armies. One will be called "The city of destruction." In that day, there will be an altar to Yahweh in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to Yahweh at its border. It will be for a sign and for a witness to Yahweh of Armies in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to Yahweh because of oppressors, and he will send them a savior and a defender, and he will deliver them.

Yahweh will be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians will know Yahweh in that day. Yes, they will worship with sacrifice and offering, and will vow a vow to Yahweh, and will perform it. Yahweh will strike Egypt, striking and healing. They will return to Yahweh, and he will be entreated by them, and will heal them. (Isaiah 19:12-22)

Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the peoples be assembled. Who among them can declare this, and show us former things? Let them bring their witnesses, that they may be justified; or let them hear, and say, "That is true." "You are my witnesses," says Yahweh, "With my servant whom I have chosen; that you may know and believe me, and understand that I am he. Before me there was no God formed, neither will there be after me. I myself am Yahweh; and besides me there is no savior. I have declared, I have saved, and I have shown; and there was no strange god among you. Therefore you are my witnesses," says Yahweh, "and I am God. (Isaiah 43:9-12)

Don't fear, neither be afraid. Haven't I declared it to you long ago, and shown it? You are my witnesses. Is there a God besides me? Indeed, there is not. I don't know any other Rock. (Isaiah 44:8)

After six days, Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John his brother, and brought them up into a high mountain by themselves. He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light. Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him. (Matthew 17:1-3)

Here we find a supernaturally arranged event specifically set like a courtroom where a witness is evaluated and substantiated through use of corroborating witnesses. This was because of enormous pressure by religious leadership to convince everyone not to trust the witness of Jesus, and this pressure was felt keenly by His own disciples. They were under constant pressure to doubt His authenticity as the true Messiah because His actions and teachings did not seem to square with how religion taught the Messiah should act when He came to deliver God's people and empower them to rule the world as they longed to happen. Thus God prompted Jesus to bring along three witnesses from His disciples to the top of a mountain where God brought His own most influential witnesses previously taken to heaven under special circumstances, possible so this very event could take place at this time.

Moses represented in the mind of the Jewish people the epitome of the Law, while Elijah was a prime example of what they referred to as the prophets. The Old Testament Scriptures were in their common vernacular called the Law and the Prophets. It was their stories and testimony and how they were being interpreted by religious authorities that was the primary issue of divisive contention related to the credibility of Jesus and His ministry of revealing the truth about His Father to not only the world, but for the onlooking universe as well. By arranging for these three specifically to be lined up together in front of three other men brought to become witnesses on earth, God personally gave His own clearest testimony possible as to who should be given the most credibility and authority in our thinking about which testimony is to carry the most weight when it comes to how we view God.

A voice came out of the cloud, saying, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him!" (Luke 9:35)

This symbolic event is inferred in various other places such as when Jesus begins by reviewing the writings of Moses and then the prophets to explain how they were to be understood in light of His own life, death and resurrection when He spoke with two disciples on their walk to Emmaus shortly after His resurrection. He wanted their faith to established, not by special revelation of His identity but grounded in a correct understanding of the history of salvation as recorded from ancient times. Their testimony was never intended to be the final word of truth, for as Jesus pointed out to the Pharisees, the Scriptures were designed to point to Himself as the far greater revelation in contrast to their incomplete and partial testimony. He was the one who alone would be the full revelation of the truth about God that far supersedes every other testimony of any witness. This is here affirmed by God declaring emphatically that it is Jesus Christ who we are to listen to and believe, implying that neither Moses nor the prophets are to be given priority over the testimony of the Son of God who alone clarifies and reveals the truth that alone can set us free from the power of sin.

If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. But if he doesn't listen, take one or two more with you, that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as a Gentile or a tax collector. Most certainly I tell you, whatever things you bind on earth will have been bound in heaven, and whatever things you release on earth will have been released in heaven. Again, assuredly I tell you, that if two of you will agree on earth concerning anything that they will ask, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them. (Matthew 18:15-20)

He called to himself the twelve, and began to send them out two by two; and he gave them authority over the unclean spirits. (Mark 6:7)

Now after these things, the Lord also appointed seventy others, and sent them two by two ahead of him into every city and place, where he was about to come. (Luke 10:1)

Here we again find a principle that is too often ignored. There could be far more effectiveness in our witnessing if we took these instructions of Jesus more seriously. I can testify from my own experience that when two people work in tandem while sharing good news about God that their effectiveness is exponentially more effective than when one person works alone. There are many reasons for this which could be enumerated of which I will offer just a few, not the least of which is the previous principle already pointed out, that a matter is to be settled on the word of at least two witnesses, not just one.

A person witnessing solo has to occupy their entire attention the whole time with what they are saying or doing with little opportunity to reflect or regroup their thoughts or consider the effect they are having on others. But when two people in harmony with each other work together in love, one can pick up from the testimony of the other to bring in a different perspective, giving the first person time to regroup internally, observe better the reactions of those listening, and pay closer attention to the quiet promptings of the Spirit about the direction of the conversation or their own disposition. Then the first person can pick up the narrative again, giving the other time to reflect and listen. This also allows the listeners exposure to more variety and perspectives than if only one person is testifying alone.

When there are two people working together, there will always be at least a slightly different perspective on what is being presented as well as ability to objectively observe what is going on with their partner. If they have learned to be honest and trusting of each other and are both tuned to the same Spirit of truth and love, they can sense when the other person might be in danger of deception or confusion and can alert them in kind ways and help them retune to the voice of God. There are many nuances involved in a healthy relationship between two people when working together to attract others to the passionate love of God, and God designed this to be the best and safest way for us to serve Him as well as the most effective means by which His love may be demonstrated, making God's attractiveness more readily seen in the interactions of those thus bonded with each other.

Behold, two of them were going that very day to a village named Emmaus, which was sixty stadia from Jerusalem. They talked with each other about all of these things which had happened. It happened, while they talked and questioned together, that Jesus himself came near, and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him.

Beginning from Moses and from all the prophets, he explained to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

"You are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send forth the promise of my Father on you. But wait in the city of Jerusalem until you are clothed with power from on high." (Luke 24:13-16,27,48-49)

It's also written in your law that the testimony of two people is valid. I am one who testifies about myself, and the Father who sent me testifies about me. (John 8:17-18)

When the Counselor has come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will testify about me. You will also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning. (John 15:26-27)

But now apart from the law, a righteousness of God has been revealed, being testified by the law and the prophets; (Romans 3:21)

A man who disregards Moses' law dies without compassion on the word of two or three witnesses. (Hebrews 10:28)

There is one more example of witnesses that I would like to look at briefly that I believe may assist us as we evaluate the testimony of these two witnesses in Revelation. It is easy to miss noticing them, but there is recorded two or more different witnesses in the following story that have opposing testimonies, and the effect of their testimony had a great deal of influence on the ability of Jesus to carry out His work in a specific region that needed His good news very much. The story is given in two places with some interesting details useful for unpacking it found in one or the other versions of this story. It would be well to read both versions completely and compare them paying close attention to the testimony of everyone involved in this story and their opinion about the presence of Jesus. A short version is in Matthew 8:28-34 while much more is found in Mark 5:1-20 and another in Luke 8:26-39.

The story involves Jesus arriving on the shore in an area called the Gadarenes or Gergesenes, the first being a larger region encompassing the second. Upon arrival on shore, Jesus and His disciples are confronted by either one or two men (depending which account you read) who are clearly demon-possessed and out of control. The texts provide various details about them indicating that no one was able to contain them with chains or any other means of control and they they lived among the tombs rather than in a house and went around naked. They were also cutters, meaning they were into self-abuse which is no surprise given their condition of demonic control.

Most are familiar with this story and how Jesus had words with the demons inside these men who identified themselves as Legion. Part of their interchange involved the demons accusing Jesus of coming to torment them and begging Him to not command them to go into the abyss, a fascinating reference alerting us to things in a much larger context in which this story took place. The demons then begged Jesus to allow them to invade a large herd of pigs nearby, which permission was granted to them. Of course we know as soon as this happened the pigs went wild, likely similar to how the possessed men had acted previously. This resulted in the pigs self-destructing by plunging off a nearby cliff and drowning in the sea below or possibly killed on the rocks at the bottom.

At the end of this story it becomes clear that these men (or man, depending on which version one assumes as more accurate) become witnesses in the surrounding region to testify about what had happened in them as a result of encountering Jesus. What is less noticed is that they were not the only witnesses testifying about this encounter, for there were people present who witnessed this event, and there is hint that possibly even others injected their version of what had just transpired. This makes for a lot of testifying going on in this story with both immediate as well as long term consequences for the ministry of Jesus in that region.

Those who fed them fled, and went away into the city, and told everything, including what happened to those who were possessed with demons. Behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus. When they saw him, they begged that he would depart from their borders. (Matthew 8:33-34)

Those who fed them fled, and told it in the city and in the country. The people came to see what it was that had happened. They came to Jesus, and saw him who had been possessed by demons sitting, clothed, and in his right mind, even him who had the legion; and they were afraid. Those who saw it declared to them how it happened to him who was possessed by demons, and about the pigs. They began to beg him to depart from their region. (Mark 5:14-17)

When those who fed them saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. People went out to see what had happened. They came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus' feet, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. Those who saw it told them how he who had been possessed by demons was healed. All the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked him to depart from them, for they were very much afraid. He entered into the boat, and returned. (Luke 8:34-37)

I wonder if the disciples of Jesus might have been included among those who it says saw what had happened and told others their version of what had happened and the crowds arrived. Either way, the prevailing reaction to the stories of the witnesses that likely included the men themselves, produced such consternation in the public mindset that the consensus was that Jesus simply needed to leave immediately, to which He complied without resistance.

What is noted as happening some time later is how Jesus returned to this region and had an opposite response from the people, likely due to the change of heart they had after having time to reconsider all the testimonies and extended time for the healed men to share their story repeatedly and incessantly until people began to see the real truth about the situation. This has important implications for us as well, for we must learn to be gentle and respectful of people's freedom to make wrong decisions on the basis of strong emotions in reaction to testimonies that may arouse fears that dominate their thinking. Given more time they may be able to reflect and reconsider more thoroughly the evidence and become willing to change their stance about the real truth.

This perspective may prove helpful as we move through the evidence concerning the testimony of these two witnesses here in Revelation 11.

they will prophesy one thousand two hundred sixty days, clothed in sackcloth

They told me, "You must prophesy again over many peoples, nations, languages, and kings." (Revelation 10:11)

Worship God, for the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy. (Revelation 19:10)

This verse corresponds directly with our current passage, for a witness is one who testifies, and the angel tells John here that the testimony of Jesus, the star witness of all witnesses, is the very Spirit of Prophecy. Therefore we need to examine these two witnesses by how much the Spirit of Jesus is seen indwelling them to empower them to give testimony that confirms the testimony of Jesus. It is not a matter of all or nothing, but rather how much a witness corroborates with the truth.

The question is this: Does the testimony and actions of these two witnesses correspond completely with the testimony of Jesus concerning the truth about His Father? Or is their testimony, in actions even more so than in words, contain discrepancies with the testimony of Jesus the Son of God? Keep this in mind as we look at more evidence about various witnesses.

But there remained two men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the Spirit rested on them; and they were of those who were written, but had not gone out to the Tent; and they prophesied in the camp. (Numbers 11:26)

Names are often important in Scripture and can convey enormous significance to a passage, this case in point being one of them. The name Eldad literally means, God has loved, and the meaning of the name Medad literally is loving, affectionate. These two men had not come up with the others to stand around the tent of meeting but were with the people in the camp where they were ministering, and both of their names related to God's love, a message we need for us today.

The Spirit of Yahweh will come mightily on you [Saul], and you shall prophesy with them, and shall be turned into another man. (1 Samuel 10:6)

Knowing how the story of Saul went downhill not long after this, it might be a little surprising that God gave Saul such a gift from the very beginning. But then it should not be, for God does not judge people and treat them as they deserve but rather relates to us without partiality and equipped Saul with what he needed to carry out his function as king. Had Saul not chosen to take a different path and allow pride to disconnect him from God's gifting and plans for him, Saul's story could just as easily turned out the opposite from what it did. He began his career as a new creature, a different man from what he had been before, filled with God's Spirit.

This should alert us to the reality that simply because someone has received an outpouring of God's Spirit and even prophesied does not mean they have any more assurance that they will not choose a different path down the road. Freedom of will is central to living in a relationship of love, for without freedom love cannot even exist. God leaves everyone free to choose their own direction and experience the outcome of those choices, even while He does everything possible to attract and equip them to come to Him and depend entirely on Him to avoid the terrible outcomes of the alternatives.

Moreover, David and the captains of the army set apart for the service certain of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with stringed instruments, and with cymbals.... (1 Chronicles 25:1)

It will happen afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams. Your young men will see visions. (Joel 2:28)

Follow after love, and earnestly desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.

(1 Corinthians 14:1)

Now I desire to have you all speak with other languages, but rather that you would prophesy. For he is greater who prophesies than he who speaks with other languages, unless he interprets, that the assembly may be built up. (1 Corinthians 14:5)

For you all can prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be exhorted.

(1 Corinthians 14:31)

These past few verses bring out some important insights about prophesying that should not be missed. Musicians and musical skill is an important expression of prophecy, especially since the right brain can store words that are couched in music differently than when simply spoken or read. Thus it is accessible in ways different than what most of our stored memory is accessed which is especially useful when we are in an intense emotional situation that prevents us from thinking clearly. Putting God's thoughts to music and learning it in this format accomplishes far more than simply learning words and facts, not the least being the deep bonding that can take place between people who participate in such worship together. Music is one of the most effective ways to awaken the heart to bond with other hearts including to God's heart. This is why music can be so important in the work of prophecy, for it can cause the message to have far greater effectiveness than when it is simply spoken.

Notice what Paul is seeking to convey to us in the passages he writes about the role of prophecy in the assembly. The main purpose of prophesying is for the purpose of building up, strengthening, encouraging and bonding together the body of Christ in the persons of His believers who compose His body. Maybe this could be a clue as to why the body of Christ is so weak today, if we fail to allow this most important gift to flourish and minister to us as God designed it should.

Surely the Lord Yahweh will do nothing, unless he reveals his secret to his servants the prophets. The lion has roared. Who will not fear? The Lord Yahweh has spoken. Who can but prophesy?

(Amos 3:7-8)

Just because people prophesy should not lead us to assume they are really speaking the truth on behalf of God. Remember that Lucifer was the first false prophet, for it was his role in heaven to convey the truth about the invisible God to the rest of the intelligent beings throughout the universe. While he may well have fulfilled his purpose for many eons, at some point he chose to begin misrepresenting the heart of the Father to created beings, and the result is the tragic effects of his rebellion which is a long and expensive experiment with alternative ways of social control and organization. Throughout history false prophets have followed in the same path of relying on deception to further their own selfish agenda. So just because a prophet claims to represent God, we must test their disposition against the only reliable standard that defines the real truth that alone will set us free.

Many will tell me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, in your name cast out demons, and in your name do many mighty works?' Then I will tell them, 'I never knew you. Depart from me, you who work iniquity.' (Matthew 7:22-23)

You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of 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 do they worship me, teaching as doctrine rules made by men.' (Matthew 15:7-9)

The purpose of prophesying is very similar to the purpose of testifying – to influence the thinking of others to view God in a better light. This means the heart must be involved and in tune with the heart of God if our testimony or prophecy is to bring about the kind of results that glorifies God.

A wonderful and horrible thing is happen in the land: the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will you do in the end of it? (Jeremiah 5:30-31)

For it is a rebellious people, lying children, children who will not hear the law of Yahweh; who tell the seers, "Don't see!" and to the prophets, "Don't prophesy to us right things. Tell us pleasant things. Prophesy deceits. Get out of the way. Turn aside from the path. Cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us." (Isaiah 30:9-11)

Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel who prophesy, and say you to those who prophesy out of their own heart, Hear you the word of Yahweh: Thus says the Lord Yahweh, Woe to the foolish prophets, who follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing! Israel, your prophets have been like foxes in the waste places. (Ezekiel 13:2-4)

You, son of man, set your face against the daughters of your people, who prophesy out of their own heart; and prophesy you against them. (Ezekiel 13:17)

Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and tell them, even to the shepherds, Thus says the Lord Yahweh: Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Shouldn't the shepherds feed the sheep? (Ezekiel 34:2)

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; but when that which is complete has come, then that which is partial will be done away with. (1 Corinthians 13:9-10)

What does it mean to prophesy in part? Does this include the spirit of partiality? To be partial implies the involvement of personal bias or favoritism, a disposition to ignore one side of an issue or certain people and choose to give biased favor to others. Scripture makes it clear that God does not assess people in a spirit of partiality. All of us are His children and He passionately loves each one individually with a love that will never be suppressed or diminished regardless of whether or not we respond positively to it. But the same cannot be said about us, and this spirit of partiality, favoring our own preferences, opinions and presuppositions infects every area of our lives. This is one reason that prophets are not to be the last word when it comes to determining what is true, faithful, reliable and especially what accurately reveals the truth about God's heart and His disposition towards us.

We just read from the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel about false prophets who claimed to speak on behalf of God but their hearts were not in tune with His heart. This means they were prophesying with partiality, whether that word meant incomplete or whether it meant biased in ways that misrepresented the truth from God. But what we find near the conclusion of the great chapter describing true love written by Paul, is that there is coming a time when there will be no more partiality, no more incomplete picture of what is true, what is real, how we perceive God to be. When that which is complete has come into clear view, the shadows of darkness and misapprehensions about God linked to the lies that have blinded so many to be afraid and suspicious of Him will be vaporized in the light of the glory as brought to us by His Son Jesus Christ, the explicit and complete revelation of God.