(This Series of Studies Examines the Meanings of Names and Places)

[Study Aired July 14, 2020]

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore, his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

Picking up where we left off starting in John 11:6: 

Joh 11:6-9 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. 

Here is the interpretation. 

When (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that those (whom God Helps) was (full of sin), (the savior and deliverer) abode (witnessing) where (eyes are being opened and sharing life giving waters). Then after that saith (the savior and deliverer) to the (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into (praise and confession) again. The (followers but not yet believers) say unto (the savior and deliverer), Master, the (killers of Christ) of late sought to (kill) (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither to (the house of misery and affliction) again? (the savior and deliverer) answered, Isn’t there a (foundation of Light)? If (those who do know Christ and the Father) (understands the doctrine and does what is said) of the (Light), they (walk the narrow way), because they (understand) the (Christ). 

Abode two Days = witnessing of himself (The Light) the head and the body 

Deu 17:6 At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death. 

Mat 18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 

Twelve hours in the day = Foundation of Light – The Spiritual Significance of the Number Twelve

Day, Light = Christ and His Christ 

Gen 1:3-5 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day. 

Joh 8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. 

Mat 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 

Sees = knowing, understanding and doing the will of the Lord 

Joh 7:16-18 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. 

Pro 14:5-8 A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth. Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge. The wisdom of the prudent is to understand his way: but the folly of fools is deceit. 

Pro 28:4-7 They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend with them. Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand all things. Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich. Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father. 

Joh 11:10 But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. 

But if (those who do not know Christ and the Father) (do not understand the doctrine and do not do what is said) of the (Light), they (are like a drunken man), because they (cannot understand) the (Christ). 

Isa 19:14 The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and they have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his vomit. 

Isa 28:7-13 But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment. For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean. Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear. But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken. 

Continuing at verse 11: 

Joh 11:11-16 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

These things said (the savior and deliverer): and after that (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Those (whom God Helps) (are spiritually dead); but (the savior and deliverer) goes, that (the savior and deliverer) may (cause them to understand the truth). Then said the (followers but not yet believers), Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit (the savior and deliverer) spake of those (whom God Helps) (spiritual) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said (the savior and deliverer) unto the (followers but not yet believers) plainly, Those (whom God Helps) are (spiritually dead). And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let (the savior and deliverers) go unto those (whom God Helps). Then said the (unstable double minded), which is called Didymus the (unstable double minded), unto the other (followers but not yet believers), Let us also go, that we may die with (the savior and deliverer). 

Sleep = spiritually dead, not knowing anything of the spirit 

Job 8:5-9 If thou wouldest seek unto God betimes, and make thy supplication to the Almighty; If thou wert pure and upright; surely now he would awake for thee, and make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous. Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. For enquire, I pray thee, of the former age, and prepare thyself to the search of their fathers: (For we are but of yesterday, and know nothing, because our days upon earth are a shadow 

Ecc 9:5 For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. 

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore, his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

Now the full interpretation: 

Now (those who do not know Christ and the Father) which are (full of sin), (whom God Helps), of (the house of misery and affliction), the (dwelling place) of (their rebellion) and (the rebellious and bitter one). (It is (the church) which (sanctifies) the (The Body) with (the word), and (washes) (the saviors and deliverers) (way of life) with (the churches) (glory), our (body), (whom God Helps), is (full of sin).) (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, those (whom God Helps) whom (the savior and deliverer) (chastens) is (full of sin). When (the savior and deliverer) heard that, (the savior and deliverer) said, This (sinfulness) not unto the (unrepenting of our sins), but for the glory of God, that the (Christ and his Christs) might be glorified thereby. Now (the savior and deliverer) (chastens) (the rebellious and bitter one), in (their rebellion), (whom God Helps). When (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that those (whom God Helps) was (full of sin), (the savior and deliverer) abode (witnessing) where (eyes are being opened and sharing life giving waters). Then after that saith (the savior and deliverer) to the (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into (praise and confession) again. The (followers but not yet believers) say unto (the savior and deliverer), Master, the (killers of Christ) of late sought to (kill) (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither to (the house of misery and affliction) again? (the savior and deliverer) answered, Isn’t there a (foundation of Light)? If (those who do know Christ and the Father) (understands the doctrine and does what is said) of the (Light), they (walk the narrow way), because they (understand) the (Christ). But if (those who do not know Christ and the Father) (do not understand the doctrine and do not do what is said) of the (Light), they (are like a drunken man), because they (cannot understand) the (Christ). These things said (the savior and deliverer): and after that (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Those (whom God Helps) (are spiritually dead); but (the savior and deliverer) goes, that (the savior and deliverer) may (cause them to understand the truth). Then said the (followers but not yet believers), Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit (the savior and deliverer) spake of those (whom God Helps) (spiritual) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said (the savior and deliverer) unto the (followers but not yet believers) plainly, Those (whom God Helps) are (spiritually dead). And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let (the savior and deliverers) go unto those (whom God Helps). Then said the (unstable double-minded), which is called Didymus the (unstable double-minded), unto the other (followers but not yet believers), Let us also go, that we may die with (the savior and deliverer). 

Lord willing, we have gained a little spiritual insight into what our Lord is doing with the body of Christ, His church. To many this is a hard saying, and they do not have this ability to spiritually discern the scriptures. We will have mockers and accusers that say we are too spiritual, but that is not our concern in this age. Our main concern is coming to know Christ and His Father, and we do this through dying daily to the carnal mind. 

Joh 6:60-66 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back and walked no more with him. 

1Co 2:12-14 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 

1Co 15:31-34 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. 

Rom 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. 

1Jn 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 

[Study Aired June 30, 2020]

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples,

Disciples

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: 1. a learner, pupil, disciple – Origin: from G3129

Who are Christ’s disciples in the beginning of their walk?

Joh 6:61-66 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Joh 8:31-33 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?

Joh 13:31-38 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice.

Mat 26:69-75 Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Let’s read our passage again, this time with the names of people and places given their meanings.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life-giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea again.

Judaea, Judah BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Judah = praised 1. the son of Jacob by Leah 2. the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob 3. the territory occupied by the tribe of Judah 4. the kingdom comprised of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin which occupied the southern part of Canaan after the nation split upon the death of Solomon 5. a Levite in Ezra’s time 6. an overseer of Jerusalem in the time of Nehemiah 7. a Levite musician in the time of Nehemiah 8. a priest in the time of Nehemiah – Origin: from H3034 H3034 praise – Definition: 1. to throw, shoot, cast a. (Qal) to shoot (arrows) b. (Piel) to cast, cast down, throw down c. (Hiphil) 1. to give thanks,, laud, praise 2. to confess, confess (the name of God) d. (Hithpael) 1. to confess (sin) 2. to give thanks – Origin: a primitive root; used only as denominative from H3027) Hitchcock – the praise of the Lord; confession

Gen 29:31-35 And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren. And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me. And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Because the LORD hath heard that I was hated, he hath therefore given me this son also: and she called his name Simeon. And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Now this time will my husband be joined unto me, because I have born him three sons: therefore was his name called Levi. And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: therefore she called his name Judah; and left bearing.

Psa 32:1-5 A Psalm of David, Maschil. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile. When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master,

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: 1. my great one, my honourable sir 2. Rabbi, a title used by the Jews to address their teachers (and also honour them when not addressing them) – Origin: of hebrew origin H7227 with pronominal suffix

Mat 23:10-11 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Christ = anointed 1. Christ was the messiah, the son of God 2. anointed – Origin: from G5548 see G3323 messias and H4899 messiah

Act 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master (Christ and his Christ the anointed servants), the Jews of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again?

Jews

Joh 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.

Joh 7:1 After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.

Joh 8:39-40 They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham. But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master (Christ and his Christ the anointed servants), the Jews (the killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: 1. a certain, a certain one 2. some, some time, a while – Origin: an enclitic indefinite pronoun

Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

Joh 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

Now a certain man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master, the Jews (killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man (those who do know Christ and the Father) walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he (the savior and deliverer): and after that he (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus (whom God Helps) sleepeth; but I (the savior and deliverer) go, that I (the savior and deliverer) may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit Jesus (the savior and deliverer) spake of his (whom God Helps) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus (the savior and deliverer) unto them plainly, Lazarus (whom God Helps) is dead. And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us (the savior and deliverer) go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us (followers but not yet believers) also go, that we may die with him (the savior and deliverer).

Thomas Didymus BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Thomas = a twin 1. one of the apostles – Origin: of Aramaic origin, cf G8380 BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Didymus = two fold or twain 1. a surname for the apostle Thomas – Origin: prolongation from G1364

Jas 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Now a certain man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master, the Jews (killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man (those who do know Christ and the Father) walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he (the savior and deliverer): and after that he (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus (whom God Helps) sleepeth; but I (the savior and deliverer) go, that I (the savior and deliverer) may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit Jesus (the savior and deliverer) spake of his (whom God Helps) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus (the savior and deliverer) unto them plainly, Lazarus (whom God Helps) is dead. And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us (the savior and deliverer) go unto him. Then said Thomas (unstable double minded), which is called Didymus (unstable double minded), unto his fellowdisciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us (followers but not yet believers) also go, that we may die with him (the savior and deliverer).

Section 1, Lazarus is Dead

[Study Aired April 27, 2020]

Joh 11:1  Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
Joh 11:2  (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)
Joh 11:3  Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
Joh 11:4  When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.
Joh 11:5  Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
Joh 11:6  When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.
Joh 11:7  Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again.
Joh 11:8  His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?
Joh 11:9  Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.
Joh 11:10  But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.
Joh 11:11  These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
Joh 11:12  Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
Joh 11:13  Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.
Joh 11:14  Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
Joh 11:15  And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
Joh 11:16  Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

In this study we are going to look at the names and towns mentioned and see what they represent in our journey into the Kingdom of God.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus,

Lazarus

(BTSCTVM+) Definition: Lazarus = whom God helps (a form of the Hebrew name Eleazar)

1. an inhabitant of Bethany, beloved by Christ and raised from the dead by him 2. a very poor and wretched person to whom Jesus referred in Luke 16:20-25

– Origin: probably of Hebrew origin H499 

Lazarus is the friend of Christ whom He loved. Who does Lazarus represent?

Pro 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Pro 22:11 Love a pure heart and kind words, and the king will be your friend. (ERV) 

Joh 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. 
Joh 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. 
Joh 15:14 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
Joh 15:15 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Joh 15:16 These things I command you, that ye love one another. 

All the parables we reviewed in Luke 14-17 in our previous studies prepared us to understand the significance of this story of Lazarus. Lazarus is sick, and we also start out sick within us.

Isa 1:2 Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.
Isa 1:3 The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider.
Isa 1:4 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward. 
Isa 1:5 Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. 
Isa 1:6 From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment.

Lazarus’ sickness represents the iniquities within us. This sickness causes death.

Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ourLord.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God helps), of Bethany,

Bethany

BTSCTVM+ Definition: Bethany = house of dates or, house of misery 

1. a village at the Mount of Olives, about two miles (3 km) from Jerusalem, on or near the normal road to Jericho 2. a town or village on the east bank of the Jordan, where John was baptising

– Origin: of Aramaic origin

Hitchcock Definition – the house of song; the house of affliction

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction),

Remember the Kingdom of God is within? Remember these things are for our understanding?

Luk 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Luk 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

Mar 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:

We are the house of God and these judgments (afflictions) begin at the house of God.

1Ti 3:15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

1Pe 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?

What is affliction?

Ezr 8:21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.

Lev 23:26 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Lev 23:27 Also on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be a day of atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD.
Lev 23:28 And ye shall do no work in that same day: for it is a day of atonement, to make an atonement for you before the LORD your God.
Lev 23:29 For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day, he shall be cut off from among his people.

(ERV) Lev 23:26-29 The LORD said to Moses, “The Day of Atonement will be on the tenth day of the seventh month. There will be a holy meeting. You must not eat food, and you must bring an offering as a gift to the LORD. You must not do any work on that day, because it is the Day of Atonement. On that day the priests will go before the LORD and perform the ceremony that makes you pure. “Anyone who refuses to fast on this day must be separated from their people. If anyone does any work on this day, I will destroy that person from among the people. You must not do any work at all. This is a law that continues forever for you, wherever you live. It will be a special day of rest for you. You must not eat food. You will start this special day of rest on the evening following the ninth day of the month. This special day of rest continues from that evening until the next evening.”

The afflictions are the results of a fast. Mike just did a study of this, and here is the link if you have not reviewed it yet.

Isa 58:1 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.
Isa 58:2 Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.
Isa 58:3 Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours.
Isa 58:4 Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.
Isa 58:5 Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?
Isa 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 
Isa 58:7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary

Mary

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Mary or Miriam = their rebellion 

1. Mary the mother of Jesus 2. Mary Magdalene, a women from Magdala 3. Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha 4. Mary of Cleophas the mother of James the less 5. Mary the mother of John Mark, a sister of Barnabas 6. Mary, a Roman Christian who is greeted by Paul in Romans 16:6 

– Origin: of hebrew origin H4813

What does Mary represent?

Psa 107:8-12 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Psa 107:9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
Psa 107:10 Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron; 
Psa 107:11 Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:
Psa 107:12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.

Pro 17:11 An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha.

Martha 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Martha = she was rebelliousp

1. was the sister of Lazarus and Mary of Bethany

– Origin: probably of Aramaic origin (meaning mistress)

Hitchcock – who becomes bitter; provoking

Pro 5:1 My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding:
Pro 5:2 That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge.
Pro 5:3 For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil:
Pro 5:4 But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword.

Lam 3:15 He hath filled me with bitterness, he hath made me drunken with wormwood.
Lam 3:16 He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.
Lam 3:17 And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity.
Lam 3:18 And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD:
Lam 3:19 Remembering mine, affliction and my misery the wormwood and the gall.

Rev 8:10 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters;
Rev 8:11 And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (their rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

Jesus 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Jesus = Jehovah is salvation

1. Jesus, the son of God, the saviour of mankind, God incarnate 2. Jesus Barabbas was the captive robber whom the Jews begged Pilate to release instead of Christ 3. Joshua was the famous captain of the Israelites, Moses’ successor (Act_7:45, Heb_4:8) 4. Jesus, son of Eliezer, one of the ancestors of Christ (Luk_3:29) 5. Jesus, surnamed Justus, a Jewish Christian, an associate with Paul in the preaching of the gospel (Col_4:11) 

– Origin: of hebrew origin H3091
Hitchcock – savior; deliverer

Isa 43:1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
Isa 43:2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
Isa 43:3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

Isa 43:10 Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.
Isa 43:11 I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour.
Isa 43:12 I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God.

Luk 2:8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
Luk 2:9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
Luk 2:10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
Luk 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was.

In the same place he was (Aenon) 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Aenon meaning springs

1. the name of a place near to Salim at which John baptised

– Origin: of hebrew origin, a derivative of G5869
Hitchcock – a cloud; fountain; his eye
Strong’s – H5869
ah’-yin

Probably a primitive word; an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy a fountain (as the eye of the landscape): – affliction, outward appearance, + before, + think best, colour, conceit, + be content, countenance, + displease, eye ([-brow], [-d], -sight), face, + favour, fountain, furrow [from the margin], X him, + humble, knowledge, look, (+ well), X me, open (-ly), + (not) please, presence, + regard, resemblance, sight, X thee, X them, + think, X us, well, X you (-rselves). 

Joh 10:40 And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.

Joh 3:23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

Gen 3:4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:
Gen 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.
Gen 3:6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
Gen 3:7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

Pro 8:27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:
Pro 8:28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:
Pro 8:29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:
Pro 8:30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;
Pro 8:31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

Rev 21:5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
Rev 21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
Rev 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples,

Next study we will finish looking at the names and towns in this story.

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellow disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

[Study Aired April 28, 2020]

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples, 

Disciples 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: 

1. a learner, pupil, disciple 

– Origin: from G3129 

Who are Christ’s disciples in the beginning of their walk? 

Joh 6:61-66 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 

Joh 8:31-33 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? 

Joh 13:31-38 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice. 

Mat 26:69-75 Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea again.

Judaea, Judah 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Judah = praised 

1. the son of Jacob by Leah 2. the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob 3. the territory occupied by the tribe of Judah 4. the kingdom comprised of the tribes of Judah and Benjamin which occupied the southern part of Canaan after the nation split upon the death of Solomon 5. a Levite in Ezra’s time 6. an overseer of Jerusalem in the time of Nehemiah 7. a Levite musician in the time of Nehemiah 8. a priest in the time of Nehemiah 

– Origin: from H3034 

H3034 praise – Definition: 

1. to throw, shoot, cast 
2. (Qal) to shoot (arrows) b. (Piel) to cast, cast down, throw down 
3. (Hiphil) 
4. to give thanks,, laud, praise 2. to confess, confess (the name of God) d. (Hithpael) 
5. to confess (sin) 2. to give thanks 

– Origin: a primitive root; used only as denominative from H3027) 

Hitchcock – the praise of the Lord; confession 

Gen 29:31-35 And when the LORD saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb: but Rachel was barren. And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will love me. And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Because the LORD hath heard that I was hated, he hath therefore given me this son also: and she called his name Simeon. And she conceived again, and bare a son; and said, Now this time will my husband be joined unto me, because I have born him three sons: therefore was his name called Levi. And she conceived again, and bare a son: and she said, Now will I praise the LORD: therefore she called his name Judah; and left bearing.

Psa 32:1-5 A Psalm of David, Maschil. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile. When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master, 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: 

1. my great one, my honourable sir 2. Rabbi, a title used by the Jews to address their teachers (and also honour them when not addressing them) 

– Origin: of hebrew origin H7227 with pronominal suffix 

Mat 23:10-11 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Christ = anointed 

1. Christ was the messiah, the son of God 2. anointed 

– Origin: from G5548 see G3323 messias and H4899 messiah 

Act 9:5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master (Christ and his Christ the anointed servants), the Jews of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again?

Jews 

Joh 5:18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. 

Joh 7:1 After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him. 

Joh 8:39-40 They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham. But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham. 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master (Christ and his Christ the anointed servants), the Jews (the killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition:

1. a certain, a certain one 2. some, some time, a while 

– Origin: an enclitic indefinite pronoun 

Mat 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. 

Joh 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. 

Now a certain man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master, the Jews (killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man (those who do know Christ and the Father) walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he (the savior and deliverer): and after that he (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus (whom God Helps) sleepeth; but I (the savior and deliverer) go, that I (the savior and deliverer) may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit Jesus (the savior and deliverer) spake of his (whom God Helps) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus (the savior and deliverer) unto them plainly, Lazarus (whom God Helps) is dead. And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us (the savior and deliverer) go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us (followers but not yet believers) also go, that we may die with him (the savior and deliverer). 

Thomas Didymus 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Thomas = a twin 

1. one of the apostles 

– Origin: of Aramaic origin, cf G8380 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Didymus = two fold or twain 

1. a surname for the apostle Thomas 

– Origin: prolongation from G1364 

Jas 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. 

Jas 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Now a certain man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us go into Judaea (praise and confession) again. His disciples (followers but not yet believers) say unto him (the savior and deliverer), Master, the Jews (killers of Christ) of late sought to stone thee (the savior and deliverer); and goest thou thither (the house of misery and affliction) again? Jesus (the savior and deliverer) answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man (those who do know Christ and the Father) walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man (those who do not know Christ and the Father) walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he (the savior and deliverer): and after that he (the savior and deliverer) saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus (whom God Helps) sleepeth; but I (the savior and deliverer) go, that I (the savior and deliverer) may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he (whom God Helps) sleep, he (whom God Helps) shall do well. Howbeit Jesus (the savior and deliverer) spake of his (whom God Helps) death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus (the savior and deliverer) unto them plainly, Lazarus (whom God Helps) is dead. And I (the savior and deliverer) am glad for your sakes that I (the savior and deliverer) was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us (the savior and deliverer) go unto him. Then said Thomas (unstable double minded), which is called Didymus (unstable double minded), unto his fellow disciples (followers but not yet believers), Let us (followers but not yet believers) also go, that we may die with him (the savior and deliverer). 

]]> https://www.iswasandwillbe.com/gospels-in-harmony-john-11-section1-lazarus-is-dead/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=gospels-in-harmony-john-11-section1-lazarus-is-dead Mon, 27 Apr 2020 17:56:42 +0000 http://www.iswasandwillbe.com/?p=21085 Gospels in Harmony – John 11, Section 1 – Lazarus is Dead 

[Study Aired April 27, 2020]

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

In this study we are going to look at the names and towns mentioned and see what they represent in our journey into the Kingdom of God.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, 

Lazarus 

BTSCTVM+ Definition: Lazarus = whom God helps (a form of the hebrew name Eleazar) 

1. an inhabitant of Bethany, beloved by christ and raised from the dead by him 2. a very poor and wretched person to whom Jesus referred to in Luk_16:20-25 

– Origin: probably of hebrew origin H499 

Lazarus is the friend of Christ whom he loved. Who does Lazarus represent? 

Pro 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. 

Pro 22:11 Love a pure heart and kind words, and the king will be your friend. (ERV) 

Joh 15:12-17 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another. 

All the parables we reviewed in Luke 14-17 in our previous studies prepared us to understand the significance of this story Lazarus. Lazarus is sick and we also start out sick within.

Isa 1:2-6 Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward. Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment.

Lazarus’ sickness represents the iniquities within us. This sickness is causes death.

Rom 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God helps), of Bethany,

Bethany 

BTSCTVM+ Definition: Bethany = house of dates or, house of misery 

1. a village at the Mount of Olives, about two miles (3 km) from Jerusalem, on or near the normal road to Jericho 2. a town or village on the east bank of the Jordan, where John was baptising 

– Origin: of Aramaic origin 

Hitchcock Definition – the house of song; the house of affliction 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), 

Remember the Kingdom of God is within? Remember these things are for our understanding? 

Luk 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 

Mar 4:11 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: 

We are the house of God and these judgments (afflictions) begin at the house of God. 

1Ti 3:15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 

1Pe 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? 

What is affliction? 

Ezr 8:21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance. 

Lev 23:26-29 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Also on the tenth day of this seventh month there shall be a day of atonement: it shall be an holy convocation unto you; and ye shall afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD. And ye shall do no work in that same day: for it is a day of atonement, to make an atonement for you before the LORD your God. For whatsoever soul it be that shall not be afflicted in that same day, he shall be cut off from among his people. 

(ERV) Lev 23:26-29 The LORD said to Moses, “The Day of Atonement will be on the tenth day of the seventh month. There will be a holy meeting. You must not eat food, and you must bring an offering as a gift to the LORD. You must not do any work on that day, because it is the Day of Atonement. On that day the priests will go before the LORD and perform the ceremony that makes you pure. “Anyone who refuses to fast on this day must be separated from their people. If anyone does any work on this day, I will destroy that person from among the people. You must not do any work at all. This is a law that continues forever for you, wherever you live. It will be a special day of rest for you. You must not eat food. You will start this special day of rest on the evening following the ninth day of the month. This special day of rest continues from that evening until the next evening.” 

The afflictions are the results of a fast. Mike just did a study of this, and here is the link if you have not reviewed it yet. Is not This the Fast that I Have Chosen?

Isa 58:1-7 Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary 

Mary 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Mary or Miriam = their rebellion 

1. Mary the mother of Jesus 2. Mary Magdalene, a women from Magdala 3. Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha 4. Mary of Cleophas the mother of James the less 5. Mary the mother of John Mark, a sister of Barnabas 6. Mary, a Roman Christian who is greeted by Paul in Romans 16:6 

– Origin: of hebrew origin H4813 

What does Mary represent? 

Psa 107:8-12 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron; Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High: Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help. 

Pro 17:11 An evil man seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her sister Martha. 

Martha 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Martha = she was rebellious 

1. was the sister of Lazarus and Mary of Bethany 

– Origin: probably of Aramaic origin (meaning mistress) 

Hitchcock – who becomes bitter; provoking 

Pro 5:1-4 My son, attend unto my wisdom, and bow thine ear to my understanding: That thou mayest regard discretion, and that thy lips may keep knowledge. For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a twoedged sword. 

Lam 3:15-19 He hath filled me with bitterness, he hath made me drunken with wormwood. He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes. And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity. And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD: Remembering mine, affliction and my misery the wormwood and the gall. 

Rev 8:10-11 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; And the name of the star is called Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (their rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. 

Jesus 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Jesus = Jehovah is salvation 

1. Jesus, the son of God, the saviour of mankind, God incarnate 2. Jesus Barabbas was the captive robber whom the Jews begged Pilate to release instead of christ 3. Joshua was the famous captain of the Israelites, Moses’ successor (Act_7:45, Heb_4:8) 4. Jesus, son of Eliezer, one of the ancestors of christ (Luk_3:29) 5. Jesus, surnamed Justus, a Jewish Christian, an associate with Paul in the preaching of the gospel (Col_4:11) 

– Origin: of hebrew origin H3091 

Hitchcock – savior; deliverer 

Isa 43:1-3 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee. 

Isa 43:10-12 Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God. 

Luk 2:8-11 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was. 

In the same place he was (Aenon) 

BTSCTVM+ – Definition: Aenon meaning springs 

1. the name of a place near to Salim at which John baptised 

– Origin: of hebrew origin, a derivative of G5869 

Hitchcock – a cloud; fountain; his eye 

Strong’s – H5869 

ah’-yin 

Probably a primitive word; an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy a fountain (as the eye of the landscape): – affliction, outward appearance, + before, + think best, colour, conceit, + be content, countenance, + displease, eye ([-brow], [-d], -sight), face, + favour, fountain, furrow [from the margin], X him, + humble, knowledge, look, (+ well), X me, open (-ly), + (not) please, presence, + regard, resemblance, sight, X thee, X them, + think, X us, well, X you (-rselves). 

Joh 10:40 And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode. 

Joh 3:23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. 

Gen 3:4-7 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. 

Pro 8:27-31 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men. 

Rev 21:5-8 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. 

Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus (whom God Helps), of Bethany (the house of misery and affliction), the town of Mary (their rebellion) and her (their rebellion) sister Martha (the rebellious and bitter one). (It was that Mary (the rebellion) which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his (the savior and deliverer) feet with her (the rebellion) hair, whose brother Lazarus (whom God Helps) was sick.) Therefore his sisters (the rebellious and bitter ones) sent unto him (the savior and deliverer), saying, Lord, behold, he (whom God Helps) whom thou (the savior and deliverer) lovest is sick. When Jesus (the savior and deliverer) heard that, he (the savior and deliverer) said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus (the savior and deliverer) loved Martha (the rebellious and bitter one), and her sister (their rebellion), and Lazarus (whom God Helps). When he (the savior and deliverer) had heard therefore that he (whom God Helps) was sick, he (the savior and deliverer) abode two days still in the same place where he was (eyes being opened and life giving waters). Then after that saith he (the savior and deliverer) to his disciples,

Next study we will finish looking at the names and towns in this story. 

Joh 11:1-16 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. 

]]> https://www.iswasandwillbe.com/why-did-jesus-weep-over-lazarus-and-over-jerusalem/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-did-jesus-weep-over-lazarus-and-over-jerusalem Thu, 23 Apr 2020 19:26:54 +0000 http://www.iswasandwillbe.com/?p=20710

Hi Everyone,​

I was reading the story of Lazarus last night​,​ and I’ve always wondered about John 11:35, why Jesus wept?

It would be good to hear your thoughts on the matter. The bible’s shortest verse uses the word dakruo (to shed tears), and this is the only time this word appears in the whole Bible.

Why would Jesus have wept, if he had the power to – and it was not long before he did – raise Lazarus from the dead?

A​____

Thank you for this question.

When Paul, speaking of the events of the Old Testament, made this statement:

1Co 10:11  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples [Greek: tupos, types of us]: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

The same is true for everything that happened to Christ and His disciples. They are types of us, and everything that happened to them was written for our admonition.

Christ knew that He would very soon raise Lazarus from the dead and there would be great rejoicing. However, for our sakes and for our admonition, He also knew the truth of His own words in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man:

Luk 16:31  And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one [Lazarus] rose from the dead.

The parable of Lazarus and the rich man is in Luke 16, but is it not very interesting that when Christ did raise a man from the dead, as a witness to the rich man’s five brothers, that man’s name was ‘Lazarus’, and sure enough, they were not the least impressed.

Joh 12:9  Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.
Joh 12:10  But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death; 

Christ’s physical emotions cried out to His Father for mercy upon the very people who were in the process of murdering Him: and His physical emotions caused Him to cry over Jerusalem, as we should also:

Luk 19:41  And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,
Luk 19:42  Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.
Luk 19:43  For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side,
Luk 19:44  And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.

That is the spirit and mind we should have over the rebellious old man within, and over this rebellious world in which we find ourselves:

Eze 9:4  And the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.

This is primarily an inward prophecy of how we are to “sigh and cry for all the abominations [of our old man] in the midst” of the Lord’s city, which is us. It also has an outward fulfillment which has and does take place before the spiritual can or will occur. So there is an outward dispensational fulfillment as we witness the Lord’s chastening hand upon our inward old man and upon our outward brothers in this doomed world in which we live, and we, too, should show our compassion upon all who must suffer as we are suffering and must “suffer with Him” now “in this present time” (Rom 8:18).

Babylon confesses God is sovereign and that we are saved by election. Then in the same breath, totally blinded to their own contradictions, they deny the very truths they read and state plainly straight from the scriptures.

Look at what this minister says about God’s sovereign election:

“Some people must wonder why the Son of God would be seen weeping that day. A slant on the doctrine of election that is gaining more acceptance in our day says that the salvation and damnation of individuals is based ultimately upon an arbitrary choice made by the Lord. Some are chosen for reprobation and damnation, while others are elected for repentance and salvation. Some declare, the perfect will of God is always accomplished and that people receive and reject Christ because God foreordained that they would. But if that were so, why was Jesus weeping?

“He was weeping because He is not willing that any should perish. That’s what the Scriptures clearly say.

“This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” 1 Timothy 2:3–6

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

“Yes, the saved are the elect of God, but election is based upon God’s foreknowledge. What and whom God knows determines whom He chooses! The Bible says that we are “. . . elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ . . .” (1 Peter 1:2).

“Election is defined in Romans 8 as God’s sovereignty acting in accordance with His omniscience and omnipotence. Study verses 29 through 34:

“For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

“The Lord predestined those He foreknew to be like His Son someday. This process is called election. It is a mystery to us because we cannot understand what it is to be the all-knowing, all-powerful Ruler of the Universe. But we do know that the election of His own does not negate the part human choice plays in determining a soul’s destiny.

“If Jesus was about to do exactly what He wanted to do, why would He weep? If He had chosen to destroy Jerusalem, why would He weep over it? What tragedy would there be in a sinner’s rejection of God’s mercy if he could do nothing else?

“The choices of man do play a role in his redemption or destruction. Of Jerusalem, Jesus said, “…how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!” (Luke 13:34)

“Jesus “would,” but they “would not.” The tragedy over which Jesus is weeping is the tragedy of lost opportunity. The people of the holy city missed the opportunity to be saved because of foolish and wicked decisions they made! Their Saviour came to their city, but they would not have Him!” (End Quote)

All the emboldening and underlining are mine because I want you to see the contradiction between saying:

“Election is defined in Romans 8 as God’s sovereignty acting in accordance with His omniscience and omnipotence. Study verses 29 through 34:

“The Lord predestined those He foreknew to be like His Son someday. This process is called election. It is a mystery to us because we cannot understand what it is to be the all-knowing, all-powerful Ruler of the Universe.” (End Quote)

Then he also states in the very same breath:

“But we do know that the election of His own does not negate the part human choice plays in determining a soul’s destiny… The choices of man do play a role in his redemption or destruction. Of Jerusalem, Jesus said, “…how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!” (Luke 13:34)

“Jesus “would,” but they “would not.” (End Quote)

If indeed “would not” can nullify Jesus’ “would”, then you simply cannot say at the same time … “Election is defined in Romans 8 as God’s sovereignty acting in accordance with His omniscience and omnipotence. This minister clearly could never understand or explain how Joseph could twice affirm that his brothers had indeed chosen to sell him into Egypt, and in the same breath tell them that it was not they who had done that evil deed at all, but rather it was God who sent him into Egypt:

Gen 45:4  And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt.
Gen 45:5  Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.
Gen 45:6  For these two years hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest.
Gen 45:7  And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.
Gen 45:8  So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.

Why did Joseph chasten his brothers, imprison them, accuse them of being spies and stealing his silver cup, when he admits they only did what God made them to do?

Now look at this minister’s question about why Jesus wept over Jerusalem:

“If Jesus was about to do exactly what He wanted to do, why would He weep? If He had chosen to destroy Jerusalem, why would He weep over it? What tragedy would there be in a sinner’s rejection of God’s mercy if he could do nothing else?” (End Quote) [Source: Why Did Jesus Weep Over Jerusalem?]

The answer to all these questions is that God really is sovereign and His sovereignty extends to the things He does for our admonition, like “sighing and crying for all the abominations done in the midst of [Jerusalem]” even if He had indeed “made us to err from His ways and hardened our heart from His fear…”

Isa 63:17  O LORD, why hast thou made us to err from thy ways, and hardened our heart from thy fear? Return for thy servants’ sake, the tribes of thine inheritance.

The answer to your question is that Christ wept over Jerusalem because He wants us to weep over Jerusalem both within and without even though we all know that He really is “working all things after the counsel of His own will”:

Eph 1:11  In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:

I hope this has helped you to understand why Christ wept over both Lazarus and Jerusalem even as He was working all things after the counsel of His own will.

YbiTC,

Mike

[Study Aired April 7, 2020]

Once again I was able to go to the web site, and tonight we are dealing with the parable of Lazarus and the rich man. There is quite a bit of information to this parable so we will go through this FAQ, which was answered by Mike.

Dear Mike,

I am reading the parables of Christ and would like your thoughts on the Rich man and Lazarus parable, please. I also spent many years in the Worldwide Church of God. Do you think there is any connection to being in that church that taught us to search the scriptures and seeing the scriptures differently now?

Love the way you write – thanks.

Regards,

H____

Good morning, H____,

You ask if there is a connection between being taught to search the scriptures and seeing what is in the scriptures? The answer is, yes, there certainly is a connection, but I tell everyone that it was being taught to search the scriptures by my Pentecostal father that took me into the World Wide Church of God, and it was that same desire to search the scriptures and to “let God be true and every man a liar” that brought me out of that church. My guess is that you came out for the same reason. There is definitely a disproportionate number of former WWCG members who come to our site.

You ask me to comment on the parable of Lazarus and the rich man in Luk 16:

Luk 16:19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:
Luk 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Luk 16:21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
Luk 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Luk 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luk 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Luk 16:25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Luk 16:26 And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that [would come] from thence.
Luk 16:27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:
Luk 16:28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
Luk 16:29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Luk 16:30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
Luk 16:31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

The first thing you need to realize is that this is indeed a parable, and not one word of this parable is to be understood as literal any more or less than any other parable. When I say that, I am not saying that parables are not dealing with real issues involving real people. They certainly are, but the message of a parable is always a matter of “comparing spiritual things with spiritual.”

1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
1Co 2:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

What I am saying is that when Christ said…

Mat 18:23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants.

… or when Christ said,

Mat 22:2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,

In neither case is He speaking of a particular king who lived at that time, or whoever has been or whoever will be? A parable uses one thing to make a point about something else, and these parables are our Lord’s words which “will never pass away,” meaning that they are all written for you and for me and for all men of all time.

Mat 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation [reading these words] shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Mat 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

“All these things” includes this parable of Lazarus and the rich man. Here is how Strong’s defines this word ‘parable.’

“PAR’ABLE, n. [L. parabola; Gr. to throw forward or against, to compare to or against; as in confero, collatum, to set together, or one thing with another.] A fable or allegorical relation or representation of something real in life or nature, from which a moral is drawn for instruction; such as the parable of the trees choosing a king, Jdg 9; the parable of the poor man and his lamb. 2Sa 12; the parable of the ten virgins, Mat 25.

Orthodox Christian ministers teach that this story is not a parable because Christ uses the name Lazarus, and because He said “there was a certain rich man.” The parables noted above show that the use of the word ‘certain’ does not preclude a parable. The truth is that when we see the phrase “there was a certain…” it seems to indicate that this is a parable.

But we need not speculate as to whether this is a parable. All we need do is see to whom Christ was speaking. I make that statement because of this verse:

Mat 13:34 All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in parables; and without a parable spake he not unto them:

Why would Christ not speak to the multitude without a parable? It is important to know why Christ spoke only in parables, if we want to know what this story of Lazarus and the rich man means. Here is why Christ spoke in parables:

Mat 13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
Mat 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 

There it is, all ministers and Sunday school teachers in the world notwithstanding! Christ spoke in parables “because… to them it is not given…to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven,” and “without a parable spake He not unto them.”

Since Christ spoke only in parables to the multitudes who came to him, all we must do is ascertain to whom Christ was talking in Luke 16, and here is who we are told His audience was:

Luk 16:14 And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

So, there can be no doubt that the story of Lazarus and the rich man is indeed a parable spoken to “the Pharisees… who were covetous… and derided Him.”

“Without a parable spake He not unto them… because it was not given to them to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.”

What those with eyes that see and ears that hear learn from this is that the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, since it is a parable, must therefore be a parable about “the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven”, which mysteries are hidden from those who are not given those eyes and ears that see and hear.

When we understand the depth of this truth, that all of Christ’s parables are designed to hide from the multitudes the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, then we understand that Lazarus’s treatment represents how the kingdom of heaven is treated by the rich man. Christ Himself, and His Christ, are Lazarus in this parable. It is Christ who rose from the dead and was ignored by the brothers of the rich man, who are typified by the Pharisees who were covetous and derided Christ and His Christ. In other words, the rich man is all of us at our appointed time as “the children of disobedience and wrath.”

Eph 2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
Eph 2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

All of mankind, at their appointed time, are “under the law” and will experience the judgment that is now on the house of God.

Gal 4:1 Now I say, [That] the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
Gal 4:2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
Gal 4:3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:
Gal 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

God’s elect are being judged now, here in this life, as we live through the torments of being in and coming out of Babylon.

1Pe 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?

We are all ‘the rich man” at our own appointed time. If that time is not seen and realized as being in this life, then it will be realized later as the “many called” who will go through a later judgment called ‘the lake of fire.”

What then, is the moral of this parable? Why, if indeed Lazarus is Christ, are we told that He is so poor that the dogs come and lick his sores? To understand how Lazarus is considered to be so lowly that “the dogs come and lick his sores” we must understand who ‘dogs’ are in scripture, and we must also understand that Christ is much more than Jesus Christ, a physical man who walked the earth 2000 years ago and was crucified by His own people, who had received nothing but good from His hands.

Psa 2:1 Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?
Psa 2:2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,

Which the church at Jerusalem quotes as referring to themselves…

Act 4:23 And being let go, they [Peter and John] went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.
Act 4:24 And when they heard that, they [the whole church] lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:
Act 4:25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?
Act 4:26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.

Then later we are also told:

Rev 11:15 And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

It all adds up to the fact that God is in the process of saving His entire creation, and He is using the physical realm as the beginning of that process. In that physical realm this is the truth of what Christ is doing in and through His elect:

1Jn 4:17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

The word ‘world’ here is not ‘aion,’ (eon) it is rather ‘kosmos.’ We are Christ’s christ in this world. As such, Christ is sending us to represent Him in this world. When this world looks at us they ought to be seeing Christ in us just as Christ’s disciples saw His Father in Him. Here are Christ’s own words to His Christ:

Joh 20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.

There really is very little room for doubt about who the two principles of this parable, Lazarus and the rich man, represent. The scriptures themselves tell us who this poor beggar is who ate the crumbs from the rich man’s table:

Mat 15:21 Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon.
Mat 15:22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.
Mat 15:23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.
Mat 15:24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Mat 15:25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me.
Mat 15:26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and to cast it to
dogs.
Mat 15:27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.
Mat 15:28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

Who Is Lazarus?

Lazarus and the Canaanite woman here are mere dogs who “ate the crumbs that fell from their masters’ tables,” and both represent those who have “great faith” in the words of Christ.

Why are we told that those who have faith are eating crumbs from the tables of those who appear to be richer than they are, and yet do not have the faith of either Lazarus or the “woman of Canaan?” Here is what that means:

Rom 11:30 For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: 

It is through the lack of faith of those who first are invited to the marriage supper, but who refuse to attend, that we receive faith. We ourselves, just like the apostles who wanted to send the woman away, are without faith, considering ourselves to be rich, before we are given the “faith of Jesus Christ”. The crumbs that seem so inconsequential are our nourishing faith, which the rich don’t even want. It is what is overlooked by, and considered as the crumbs of, the rich that nourishes the “poor of this world.”

Jas 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

Mat 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

God has “chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith.” To be “poor in spirit” is to be “rich in faith.” That is why Lazarus, in this parable, is presented to us as so poor that he has to settle for the unwanted crumbs which fall from his master’s table, and why Lazarus is considered diseased and has dogs licking his sores. Who did Christ call a dog? It was the “woman of Canaan” of whom Christ tells us “great is thy faith.”

So what are these “crumbs that fall from the table of the rich man?” Those crumbs are those doctrines which are not deemed worthy of those who are rich. Doctrines like a poor beggar and a woman of Canaan, both counted as outcasts by those who consider themselves to be “rich and increased with goods” are not interesting to the rich for being counted “worthy of the kingdom of heaven.” Doctrines like “grace chastening us to forsake ungodliness and living godly lives in this present age,” and doctrines like “as in Adam all die, so in Christ will all be made alive” are but a very few of the “crumbs that fall from the tables of the rich.”

So who is this “rich man” in this parable? Just as the poor beggar and the poor woman of Canaan are one and the same, so, too, is this rich man and the rich Laodicean church of Revelation 3 one and the same person.

Rev 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
Rev 3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
Rev 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.

We can speculate right along with all the commentators, or we can simply believe the words before us, as to who the principles of this parable are. Many commentators speculate that the rich man represents the Jews who rejected Christ, and Lazarus represents the Gentiles who accepted Him. That is a very good way of understanding the “was” part of these words of our Lord, but until we can see how the words of this and every other parable are to be presently applied in our own lives, we do not even know a Christ who “is alive now, and who was dead, and who is alive forevermore.” When we do become acquainted with that Christ, then we will know that His words will never pass away and that we are to live by every one of those living and lasting words.

Mat 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

Mat 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation [reading these words which ‘word’ does “not pass away”] shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Mat 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

Rev 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

When the import of those words sinks into our spirits, then we will begin to see that all the parables with all of their principles are all within each of us and are to be so understood. “Man shall live by every word…” of the parables which are all concerned with “the mysteries of the kingdom of God.” Where is that kingdom? It is, at this time, within each and every man who is given eyes to see and ears to hear the sayings of the prophecy of God’s Word.

Luk 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Luk 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

The kingdom of God is within those who are given eyes to see and ears to hear the fact that the holy spirit teaches comparing spiritual with spiritual.

1Co 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
1Co 2:13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

The holy spirit compares “spiritual things with spiritual…” that we might know the things that are freely given to us by God.” What has been given to us? Have we been given blessings without trials? No, absolutely not! We certainly have been blessed above all men, but in what way? What is it we are given at this time? Here are but a few of the blessings given to those who are called to be God’s elect.

Mat 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. 

Which means this:

Php 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

That is the spiritual significance of Lazarus being despised for his poverty and his sores.

Luk 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Luk 16:21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 

Who is the rich man?

1Co 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;
1Co 3:22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;
1Co 3:23 And ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.

“All things” include both Lazarus and the rich man. We are, at our appointed time, both of these men, and we are all first the rich man. According to these verses all of God’s apostles are ours. But so is death ours. As Job asks:

Job 2:10 But he said unto her [Job’s wife], Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

That is the point of Paul’s statement that “all things are yours, whether life or death or things present or things to come.” In other words we will “live by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.”

What does all of that have to do with this parable of Lazarus and the rich man? It tells us that we all are that rich man who thinks of himself as rich and increased with goods and having need of nothing, when in reality we are poor and wretched and miserable and blind and naked and in need of buying of God gold tried in the fire. “He that hath ears, let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.”

Why is Lazarus so poor that the dogs lick his sores? Why does he die to be carried away to Abraham’s bosom? It is because he represents those who are despised of this world; he represents those who are rich in faith:

Luk 18:9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 

Heb 11:36 And others had trial of [cruel] mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
Heb 11:37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
Heb 11:38 (Of whom the world was not worthy) they wandered in deserts, and [in] mountains, and [in] dens and caves of the earth.

That is what “the dogs came and licked his sores” means. It simply means that Lazarus was “hated of all men.”

What about these verses:

Luk 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Luk 16:23 And in hell [hades; the grave] he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luk 16:24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 

We have written much and have demonstrated beyond doubt that the word ‘fire’ symbolizes trials, chastening and scourging in scripture. This parable is not an exception to that rule. Read What Is The Fire of The Lake of Fire? on iswasandwillbe.com.

Then what is “Abraham’s bosom, and what does “in hell he lifted up his eyes being in torments…” mean? If there is anything about this parable that is undeniably a parable, it is this phrase “Abraham’s bosom.” Abraham’s literal bosom is no bigger than yours or mine, but when we are given eyes to see that “those who are in Christ are Abraham’s seed” then we know where Abraham’s bosom is. Abraham’s bosom is “in Christ”, and being in “Abraham’s bosom” is to be “asleep in Christ” or “dying daily” in Christ. This beggar represents those who die in Christ, who, without a resurrection, would have perished because they are now physically dead:

1Co 15:16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:
1Co 15:17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
1Co 15:18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 

“Abraham’s bosom”

Gal 3:29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Why does Christ say that “in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom?”

The Greek word translated ‘hell’ here is not gehenna, but rather it is hades. While gehenna is associated with the concept of fire, hades is simply the grave. So Christ is telling these Pharisees that the rich man lifted up his eyes, being in torments, while he was in hades, the grave. What are the actual conditions of a body in the grave?

Ecc 9:5 For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

Ecc 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

Mat 9:24 He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.

Joh 11:11 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
Joh 11:12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
Joh 11:13 Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.
Joh 11:14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.

1Co 15:16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:
1Co 15:17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
1Co 15:18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 

Christ said that another Lazarus was “asleep” when he was dead, and He also said that the daughter of the ruler of the synagogue was asleep when she had actually died. Christ went so far as to say that those who are alive are the ones who are actually dead:

Luk 9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

Mat 9:24 He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.

Joh 11:11 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
Joh 11:12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
Joh 11:13 Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.
Joh 11:14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. 

Christ certainly did not teach that dead people burn in hell the moment they die. When Christ said “in hell he lifted up his eyes being in torments”, He is referring, in parable, to the spiritual condition of those who will be resurrected and then be cast into a symbolic lake of fire, which will symbolically burn out all of the wood, hay and stubble in the lives of all who are not in the “blessed and holy first resurrection.”

Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

It hurts to be judged now, and it will hurt then. Both are referred to in scripture as “fire.” Here is the fire of the present judgment:

1Pe 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

1Pe 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?
1Pe 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

This is the day of judgment for God’s elect who will be in that blessed and holy first resurrection. It is a “fiery trial that will burn out all the wood, hay and stubble, and all the tares that are growing with the wheat within us.

Here is the day of judgment for all others. Here is the answer to Peter’s question, “Where will the ungodly and sinner appear?”

Rev 20:11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.
Rev 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
Rev 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
Rev 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
Rev 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

I think you know that “the dead know not anything.” I think you know that those who die in Christ are said to be “asleep in Christ.” I hope this helps you to see that the fire which the rich man experienced in Christ’s parable is this same symbolic fire we find throughout God’s word. It is the tormenting fire of God’s Word which “devours the wood” in us all:

Jer 5:14 Wherefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, Because ye speak this word, behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devour them.

Just as it was with Joseph’s brothers, their torment lead to their salvation, and that is exactly what we are told happens to those who are burned up by the Word of God in the mouths of His servants.

1Co 3:13 Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
1Co 3:14 If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
1Co 3:15 If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 

The rich man within us suffers loss, but he is still “saved by fire.” It is a principle which is at work in us all. The only way any of us find our lives is if we first lose our lives.

Mat 10:39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

What are we to make of the fact that the rich man had “five brothers?” The number five throughout scripture denotes grace and faith. David used only one stone to kill Goliath, but he picked up five stones out of the brook.

1Sa 17:40 And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling [was] in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.

Joseph had eleven brothers, but he presented only five of them to Pharaoh, as representing the salvation of all of his brothers.

Gen 47:2 And he took some of his brethren, even five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh. 

Mat 16:9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up?

The productive servant was given five talents:

Mat 25:15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.

The rich man’s five brothers represent Joseph’s brothers, who represent all of us when we have sold Joseph for twenty pieces of silver, and later we are all guilty of selling Christ for thirty pieces of silver and crucifying Him.

Until we see ourselves as Peter, denying our Lord with an oath; until we see ourselves as the apostle Paul, as “chief of sinners,” we will never fully realize that we are both the rich man, and then we are Lazarus. We are first the self-righteous Pharisee, and then we are the despised publican. We are first the self-righteous Jews who want to stone the woman caught in adultery, and then we can see ourselves as having been that woman. We are first the elder son who hates his prodigal brother, then we can see that we have also been the prodigal son. We must see the tares growing in us until the harvest before Christ will send His laborers to “gather the tares into bundles to be burned first,” then He will gather His wheat into His barn. So until we see the rich man within us first, we will never understand this parable of Lazarus and the rich man as a parable of the mysteries of the kingdom of God within us.

Mat 13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
Mat 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
Mat 13:13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. 

Luk 17:20 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation:
Luk 17:21 Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.

I hope this helps you to see that the kingdom of God is within you, and this, and all of Christ’s parables, were designed to hide the mysteries of that kingdom from the multitudes who came to Christ at that time and who are coming to Christ at this time. I hope this helps you to understand the depth of the truth of these words of our Lord:

Mat 24:34 Verily I say unto you, This generation [Reading these words] shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.
Mat 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 

“All these things” includes this parable of Lazarus and the rich man being lived out in our lives.

Your brother in Christ, Mike

We will stop the recording here, and open [the study] up for discussion.

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Awesome Hands – Part 3, “The Law of Moses, the Prophets and Psalms”

During the introduction studies in Alabama, we covered a lot of scripture for this topic in a very brief timeframe. Continuing in part 3 of this series, we will start taking a closer look at each verse under this topic as e- sword has them listed in order of their appearance in scripture.

The idea behind doing a study like this on the awesome hands of God is to convey to the body of Christ what the Lord has placed and told us about himself in the law of Moses, the writings of the prophets and the writings of psalms and how that relates to Christ being revealed to us in the new testament.

As we all want to know Christ more, it is of utmost importance that we search out the scriptures to see what the Lord will have us see and hear with spiritual eyes and ears concerning Himself in the entirety of the bible.

With this study on the awesome hands of God, I hope that over a period of time we can look over all the verses in scripture that deal with the “hands of God” as He works His sovereign will in our lives.

The Law of Moses, the Prophets and Psalms

As most of us have come to understand, everything that happened in the Old Testament happened to those in the Old Testament not for themselves to know about Christ, but for our admonitions to know Christ.

As we come to know God and His Son that He sent, we come to learn that He lives in us and controls all aspects of our lives, good and bad. As such, we can look to scripture to learn what not to do and what to do as we search out the mind of Christ on anything we do. There are those starting in the OT, where Gods hands are very apparent in their lives, yet they did not receive what we have.

They did not receive the PROMISE of Christ in you, your hope of glory but in order to know God and Jesus Christ that He sent, we must know Christ as He is revealed in the law of Moses, the prophetical writings and the psalms.

Joh 17:3 –  And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

1Jn 5:13 –  These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

In Hebrews we see that those in the OT had a good report by faith, and we can see a whole list of things that were lived out in Heb 11 that was counted towards those OT patriarchs as faith.

Heb 11:39 –  And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:

… and in 1Co 10, we can see all the lusts and desires that we also done by those in the OT that had God pour His wrath out upon them…. things which we are to learn not to do.

1Co 10:6 –  Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

1Co 10:11 –  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.

Now, as concerning the law of Moses and what it means to us today we see several examples of what we live by today as it relates also to the NT and how God’s awesome hands work in our lives thereby.

Gal 3:11 –  But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
Gal 3:12 –  And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
Gal 3:13 –  Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
Gal 3:14 –  That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Heb 9:15 –  And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.

Heb 10:35 –  Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
Heb 10:36 –  For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Heb 10:37 –  For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
Heb 10:38 –  Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
Heb 10:39 –  But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Clearly, anyone that is coming to the Lord as a child on His knee will be able to hear that we are redeemed from the curse of the law,  so that we justly live by the faith that Christ gives us.

So, how does that relate to how God works his awesome hands in the lives of His people, the body of Christ, –> His prophets and prophetesses?

Rev 19:10 –  And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Luk 24:44 –  And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
Luk 24:25 –  Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
Luk 24:26 –  Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
Luk 24:27 –  And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

I would like to take the opportunity now to look at something very revealing as concerns how God works in the lives of His people.

The story is about Lazarus and the rich man. We know there is a hidden meaning in the verses, but this directly relates to how we are to live our lives now and how being in God’s bosom shows us how we are being dealt with or not and how God is sovereign the entire time.

Luk 16:22 –  And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
Luk 16:23 –  And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Luk 16:24 –  And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Luk 16:25 –  But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Luk 16:26 –  And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

We can see in verses 22 and 23 that the rich man is dead and buried. We know from scripture that night, sleep, the grave, the law and darkness represent being dead and unknowing of God and Christ or the lack of eternal life.

In this parable, we can see that the rich man finally lifts his eyes up to heaven but it took dying to even get to that point. So, we die daily and as such we start to see a truth revealed about the solidification of death working itself in our spiritual lives.

In this mindset, let us see what we ask Abraham which typifies Christ. We ask to have our tongue cooled with just a tip of a finger of water to cool the torment of the flame.

God has given us the extreme blessing of knowing Him in this life. We come to know he more and more each day, Lord willing and as such we are put through a purging fire of cleansing and purification that will have us looking up from our physical death at our Lord and Savior because one day we will be as He is and not only in down payment form now!

Continuing with verse 24:

Luk 16:24 –  And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

Oh, how we want to go back to the ways we have known! If only a little bit! The flame of the Word of God and how God has worked His awesome hands into our lives is some times more than we want or can bear and we are no different than those in the OT that want to go right back to Egypt after God has utterly destroyed Egypt and the people there and has brought His people out of that place. What utter fools we are, dogs going back to vomit!

Act 7:37 –  This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.
Act 7:38 –  This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:
Act 7:39 –  To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,
Act 7:40 –  Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
Act 7:41 –  And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
Act 7:42 –  Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?

You might be saying to yourself right about now, “Steven, how in the world are you equating Lazarus and the rich man to Gods awesome hands and Him in our lives?”

Listen, we have an old man and new man living within us, Lord willing. We have and know about a deadly war going on in our heavens and the principalties and powers that be are battling it out as God sets all things in motion. We are privy to this in our lives, but if the Lord wills it, He can turn us back to our mud in the mire or give us the proper mind of a Son of God, just as King Nebakanezer was restored in type and shadow.

That might be all good and well, but how does this relate to this study again you may be asking yourself?

Luk 16:25 –  But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
Luk 16:26 –  And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

Is there a way to crucify Christ again once he has been crucified already? When we have been shown that all we do during our life in the wilderness is offer sacrifices to idols made with our own hands, worship the host of heaven and rejoice in it how then can such a great gulf be crossed? There is no way to taste of that heavenly truth and then turn your back on it to then try to sacrifice another offering to get back to square one. Ain’t gonna happen.

There is simply no way for this to happen. Here, we can see another example of this truth and how we know this is what is being talking about concerning US as we see God’s sovereignty in our lives:

2Pe 2:17 –  These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever. (note: this is age abiding, aionios, aionion)
2Pe 2:18 –  For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
2Pe 2:19 –  While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.
2Pe 2:20 –  For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning.
2Pe 2:21 –  For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.
2Pe 2:22 –  But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

We have been given LIFE now, and we want to go back to our old ways and the “water” we knew when we thought we had life. What we had was Babylon, Eqypt and the wilderness. What we were given was a law to deal with the lawless and disobedient people who were continuously being rebellious.

However, when we are in this condition we are given to accept the answer but we also try to get our goals accomplished. So, we ask Abraham to send Lazarus to our father’s house. Interesting to note is that we ask Abraham to affect things in the land of the living because we are in the land of death.  I don’t think it is going to go how we want it to:

Luk 16:27 –  Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:
Luk 16:28 –  For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
Luk 16:29 –  Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
Luk 16:30 –  And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
Luk 16:31 –  And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

There is nothing we can do but rely on the Will of God to be worked one way or the other concerning how those who are sent to us will respond to our message. It is all of the Lord. If they don’t go through Babylon, then they can’t be called out of her.

Once they are called out of her, they will want to go back and once most have tasted if the heavenly gift, they will return unto the vomit they have been converted from in their minds and hearts. They have been given the life of a Son of God, rescued from the lives of dogs and pigs, but we can all only do what the Lord has willed in our lives.

The work of our hands vs. Gods Awesome Hands

In the last study, we listed out all of the times in the OT that hand was translated one way or another. So, we will start looking at each of these words are they relate to one another and us through our experiences in life.

Num 11:29 –  And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD’S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!

Gen 3:22 –  And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:

Gen 4:8 –  And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.
Gen 4:9 –  And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother’s keeper?
Gen 4:10 –  And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground.
Gen 4:11 –  And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand;

Notice that in these first two examples we see the first few examples of what we do with our hands, the works we work when we are tempted to do so. Our first work is to take of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

Gen 3:6 –  And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
Gen 3:7 –  And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.

… and this leads to us being cursed from the earth. We are going to be cast out of the earth, earth, earth as part of our curse just as Christ was cast outside the camp of Israel.

We are Cain and the works of our hands are products of death and this has been the case from the very beginning as we were created in the old Adam. We die because there is a law in us that not one of us asked for. We were born into the lives we have, as little baby sinning machines and we are born the SAME WAY into the kingdom of God ….

There is no difference to God because the night and the day are alike to Him!

Jer 4:22 –  For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.
Jer 4:23 –  I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light.

Jer 6:19 –  Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.

Jer 22:29 –  O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD.

Isa 1:1 –  The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.
Isa 1:2 –  Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.

…. But we can rejoice, the Lord knows what He is doing

Psa 139:1 –  To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Psa 139:2 –  Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.
Psa 139:3 –  Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.
Psa 139:4 –  For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.
Psa 139:5 –  Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
Psa 139:6 –  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Psa 139:7 –  Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
Psa 139:8 –  If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
Psa 139:9 –  If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Psa 139:10 –  Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
Psa 139:11 –  If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.
Psa 139:12 –  Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
Psa 139:13 –  For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.
Psa 139:14 –  I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
Psa 139:15 –  My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Psa 139:16 –  Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
Psa 139:15 (ASV) –  My frame was not hidden from thee, When I was made in secret, And curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Psa 139:16 (ASV) –  Thine eyes did see mine unformed substance; And in thy book they were all written, Even the days that were ordained for me, When as yet there was none of them.

If God sees our unformed substance when we are physically being conceived, how much more when we are spiritually being worked with the same? Isn’t this true then with what we do with the works of our hands and also how God works His will into our lives via His awesome hands?

God is in control and will work all things for our good even if we don’t understand the details along the way. How many niches and nicks did the Lord form on you when He was forming you in His potter Hands? How many smooth spots did He give you as well?

Thank the Lord, He is creating us in His image and one day we will be as He is because we will see Him clearly Lord willing.

Conclusion of Part 3

During this study, we have looked through the beginning of the sovereignty of Gods will in our lives in relation to how He works us in His hands.

We can see the start of this as we look at the foundation that has been laid, and that is Christ in us our hope of Glory. Starting from the foundation of the world, the law of Moses, the prophets and psalms have always spoken about Christ.

As such, we are starting to dive into the various scriptures and scenarios that show us this plan as it has been taught to us in the admonitions we can learn and see in both the old and new testaments.

We always initially want to go back to the vomit and mud that the Lord has saved us from, but we too will come to see that we can do NOTHING without Christ.

Joh 15:1 –  I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
Joh 15:2 –  Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Joh 15:3 –  Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Joh 15:4 –  Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
Joh 15:5 –  I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Joh 15:6 –  If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

One way or another, we are going into the fire to burn away all wood, hay and stubble…. now or later or maybe both but we all will be saved by this same fire!

1Co 3:11 –  For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
1Co 3:12 –  Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;
1Co 3:13 –  Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.
1Co 3:14 –  If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.
1Co 3:15 –  If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.

Next study, we will be starting with Gen 8:9 to see how Noah and the dove play significant roles in our spiritual lives as we come to see the awe inspiring power of the work of the hands of the Lord in our lives. We will continue to dissect and look for guidance and inspiration in the next few scriptures lined up in this study.

Hi Mike,

I have been reading your papers and Amo 98% comfortable with your teachings.
What my question is, the called and chosen will be resurrected as spirit to enter the kingdom of Heaven to judge and teach. Judge and teach whom? The rest of mankind left on earth? What happens when the rest of the dead are resurrected? Will they be in the flesh? I understand there will be a new heaven and a new earth, but I don’t understand the purpose of a new earth if everybody is resurrected spirit. I am pretty sure I am of the Esau class, as I am just pretty wicked. So am wondering is there a comforting message of my class?
Mike, I really do understand only a few will be chosen and I am only wondering what happens to the rest of us. I Amo 69 years old and have seen ” The Truth” about 60 of those years, until I discovered through your papers that I have been really hoodwinked by the perpetuation of the Pharisees of organized religion. I can truly say I have never been really comfortable with the teachings of my past and really appreciate you.
D____
PS, Just another thought, what is the portent of the resurrection of Lazarus in the flesh?
Many thanks,
D____

Hi D____,
Thank you for your questions.
You ask:

… what is the portent of the resurrection of Lazarus in the flesh?

The answer is the same as it usually is; Lazarus’s resurrection in flesh typifies Christ coming in flesh and through Christ Lazarus’s resurrection in the flesh portends our ‘resurrection’ while yet in the flesh.
Being resurrected while yet in the flesh is what occurs inwardly in all of God’s elect:

Rom 6:13 Neither yield ye your members [ as] instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

“As those alive from the dead” means ‘as resurrected.’ Here is the Concordant version:

Rom 6:13 Nor yet be presenting your members, as implements of injustice, to Sin, but present yourselves to God as if alive from among the dead, and your members as implements of righteousness to God.

God’s elect are to live “as IF” they were resurrected from the dead. Here it is again:

Gal 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

So here they are combined:

Col 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

But we are still in our flesh:

Gal 2:20 again: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

So we still have to remain “faithful to the end” in order to complete the passage through the second veil. Oh yes, we are seated with Christ “in the heavens.” But it is in “earnest” only at this time:

Eph 1:11 In whom [ in Christ] also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
Eph 1:12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
Eph 1:13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Eph 1:14 Which [ Holy Spirit] is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

As far as you being Esau, I have no doubt that the publican felt the same way as he smote his breast and agreed with the self- righteous Pharisee about his own spiritual state.

Luk 18:9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:
Luk 18:10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
Luk 18:11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men [ are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
Luk 18:12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
Luk 18:13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as [ his] eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

The publican felt just like he was Esau. But look at Christ’s assessment of this situation:

Luk 18:14 I tell you, this man [ the publican who felt like he was Esau] went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

It is not until you come to have the attitude you are right here expressing: “I am of the Esau class, and am just pretty wicked” that God will even begin to work with you:
I tell you, this man [ the publican who felt like he was Esau] went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Isa 66:2 (b) but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.

I dare say that right this moment, you are in the best spiritual condition of your life. Keep that humble attitude, and “you will judge the world.”
Mike

Hello Mike,

What can you say about the old testament saints who were resurrected with Jesus bodily? What has become of them? Are they still going to take part in the resurrection at the end of the age?

Blessings!
M____

Hi M____,

Thank you for your question about those who were resurrected “after Christ’s resurrection”. Let’s look at Matthew’s account of that incident and notice when it is said to have taken place.

Mat 27:45  Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.
Mat 27:46  And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
Mat 27:47  Some of them that stood there, when they heard [ that], said, This [ man] calleth for Elias.
Mat 27:48  And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled [ it] with vinegar, and put [ it] on a reed, and gave him to drink.
Mat 27:49  The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.
Mat 27:50  Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.
Mat 27:51  And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
Mat 27:52  And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
Mat 27:53  And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
Mat 27:54  Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

So let’s be aware that this was not on “the first day of the week” when Jesus arose and appeared to Mary, and the two men on the road to Emmaus, and later that evening to all those in the room in Jerusalem. This event happened some time “after His resurrection.
You call them “Old Testament saints” and indeed they were Old Testament saints, but not in the sense of being Abraham, Isaac and Jacob or any of the kings or prophets of the Old Testament. They were ‘Old Testament saints’ only in the sense that this all happened before the day of Pentecost when the New Testament church was founded.
The words used are “and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.”
The purpose for the tearing of the veil from top to bottom was to witness to the fact that this was the Son of God who had been murdered by His own people. The reason for the earthquake was to confirm that witness, and the raising of “many bodies of the saints” was to “appear unto many” for the very same purpose of confirming Christ to have been the Son of God, who had been rejected of and murdered by His own nation of Israel. If these saints had been the patriarchs, kings or prophets of old, no one would have known who they were, and their witness would have been meaningless. But if these ‘saints’ had been recent deaths of those who had heard Jesus speak and had seen His miracles, then the people of the city would have known them, and their testimony that they had been resurrected to vouch for the Truth that Christ was the Son of God and the propitiation for our sins, then their testimonies and their witness would have been enormous in Jerusalem, and would have put fear in the hearts of those who participated in the crucifixion of Christ.
That is exactly what happened according to Act 2:

Act 2:22  Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
Act 2:23  Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
Act 2:24  Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
Act 2:25  For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
Act 2:26  Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:
Act 2:27  Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Act 2:28  Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Act 2:29  Men [ and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
Act 2:30  Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
Act 2:31  He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
Act 2:32  This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

“Approved of God among you… which God did by Him in the midst of you… you have crucified…” proves that it was indeed, “those Jews which believed on Christ”, and who Christ had healed of their diseases, their crippled and blinded condition, and had fed with His loaves and fishes, are the very people who were clamoring for Christ’s crucifixion.

Joh 8:30  As he spake these words, many believed on him.
Joh 8:31  Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, [ then] are ye my disciples indeed;
Joh 8:32  And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Joh 8:33  They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
Joh 8:34  Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
Joh 8:35  And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: [ but] the Son abideth ever.
Joh 8:36  If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Joh 8:37  I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you.

“Whereof we are all witnesses” is referring to Christ’s resurrection.

Act 2:32  This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

Christ had appeared to many “after His resurrection”, even to crowds of over 500 people at a time.

1Co 15:3  For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
1Co 15:4  And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
1Co 15:5  And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
1Co 15:6  After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.

But another extremely powerful witness to who this Man was, is this very incident of which you inquire. “Many bodies of the saints which slept arose [ who had fallen asleep during the time of Christ’s three and one half year ministry], and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.”
When we consider the effect of the resurrection of Lazarus, who had been dead for four days, and then we multiply that effect by every saint that was resurrected “after His resurrection”, we have a very powerful witness as to who Christ really was.

Joh 11:39  Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been [ dead] four days.
Joh 11:40  Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
Joh 11:41  Then they took away the stone [ from the place] where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up [ his] eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
Joh 11:42  And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said [ it], that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
Joh 11:43  And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
Joh 11:44  And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
Joh 11:45  Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.
Joh 11:46  But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.
Joh 11:47  Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.
Joh 11:48  If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.
Joh 11:53  Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.

We see in this scripture the effect of seeing someone raised from the dead had on people. Just imagine if you attended a funeral and the deceased suddenly awoke out of the coffin how you and the others around you would react. It would have been the same way then, as no one had seen a physical resurrection.

Joh 12:9  Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.
Joh 12:10  But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;

As you can see, it attracted so much attention with just the resurrection of that one man the chief priests not only wanted to kill Christ, but wanted Lazarus dead also.  They thought that would put a stop to the crowds wanting to follow after this man who was ‘turning the world upside down’.  But multiplied by the great number who were physically resurrected after Christ was resurrected, there would have been no way to silence the reaction to such a great witness.
I hope this helps to give a picture of what events must have been like just before and after “many bodies” were physically resurrected as a witness to God’s power and a type of things to come. They went on to live out the time allotted to them by the Father, and will be raised spiritually in God’s time.

Mike