Hosea Redeems His Wife- Hosea Chpt. 3

Hosea Redeems His Wife- Hosea Chpt. 3

Then said the LORD unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress, according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine. Hos. 3:1

said the LORD... The 5th prophecy in Hosea (Hos. 3:1-5: Hos. 3:4 fulfilled; Hos. 3:5 unfulfilled). Next, Hos. 4:1.

Six Predictions—Fulfilled:

1. The children of Israel will abide many days without a king (Hos. 3:4).

2. The children of Israel will abide many days without a prince.

3. The children of Israel will abide many days without a sacrifice.

4. The children of Israel will abide many days without an image.

5. The children of Israel will abide many days without an ephod.

6. The children of Israel will abide many days without teraphim.

Four Predictions—Unfulfilled:

1. Afterward (after the many days and the fulfillment of Hos. 3:4) the children of Israel will return to Israel (Hos. 3:5).

2. They will seek the Lord their God.

3. They will seek David their king.

4. They will fear the Lord and His goodness in the latter days.

Go yet, love... Hosea was told to go again and love Gomer his wife who had forsaken him for her old lovers. He was to love her as God loves Israel who left Him to go after other gods, and who loved wine (Hos. 3:1). He took another bag of money and other things with which to buy her back again (Hos. 3:2); and made a contract with her to abide with him many days and not to play the harlot or be for another man (Hos. 3:3). This also was applied to Israel (Hos. 3:4-5).

If anyone had occasion to renounce his wife, Hosea did; however, he was instructed to love her still. Similarly, God continued to love an unfaithful Israel.

Having been previously separated, Hosea was commanded to pursue his estranged wife Gomer, thereby illustrating God’s unquenchable love for faithless Israel.
Some versions of scripture add “Raison cakes”: These were eaten as a part of special occasions (2 Sam. 6:19), they may have been used in idolatrous ceremonies, possibly as an aphrodisiac (compare Song of Solomon 2:5).
flagons of wine... (Hebrew ashishah), are raisin cakes. They are similar, if not identical, to the cakes mentioned (in Jeremiah 7:18 and 44:19) which were used in the idolatrous ceremonies in honor of the queen of heaven.
Hosea is instructed to love this unlovable wife of his, as God loves Israel. God loves with unconditional love. While we were yet in sin, God sent His Son to save us. Man loves because of some reason, or the other. God loves in spite of, not because of. His love is Agape love. The greatest love shown ever is spoken of in John.
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Most husbands love their wives, because they are faithful to them, and because they see them as being beautiful. Israel was unfaithful to God, and yet He loved them in spite of their unfaithfulness. As far as the natural man could look, Israel was worthless. God loved them anyway. Remember, the prophet experiences in the physical the same thing that is happening in the spirit with his people. Hosea must love her, in spite of her unfaithfulness and heavy wine drinking.

So I bought her to me for fifteen pieces of silver, and for an homer of barley, and an half homer of barley: Hos. 3:2

So I bought... Price of Hosea’s wife:

15 shekels of silver @ $2.50 each: $37.50

1.5 homers of barley—9.375 bushels (6.25 bushels to a homer) @ $4.00 each bushel: $37.50

Total:$75.00

The amount of 15 shekels was the redemption price of a slave. The barley (not made into flour) was the most valuable part of the price.

pieces of silver... Shekels. One was worth $2.50.

I bought her... Probably from a slave auction, Hosea purchased Gomer for 15 shekels of silver and 1-1/2 homers of barley. Together, the total may have equaled 30 pieces of silver, the price paid for a common slave (Exodus 21:32). Barley was the offering of one accused of adultery (Num. 5:15).

The price paid to redeem Gomer is indicative of the depth to which she had sunk, as we see in this Israel. Barley was considered to be a food fit only for animals, and was eaten only by the poorest people.
Silver... Means redemption. Fifteen is five time three. The number 5 symbolizes grace and 3 symbolizes God. This is saying, by the grace of God, she was redeemed. We see also by Gods grace the remnant of Israel will be saved. We must also note that although we see in scripture that all Israel will be saved. This is speaking of the remnant because the remnant is the portion of Israel that believes in Christ Jesus.
Leviticus 27:16 "And if a man shall sanctify unto the LORD [some part] of a field of his possession, then thy estimation shall be according to the seed thereof: a homer of barley seed [shall be valued] at fifty shekels of silver."
A Homer was about 8 bushels. This homer and a 1/2 homer would have been 12 bushels of barley. Barley was thought of as the peasant's grain, because it was cheaper. Figuring this out in our money today, she brought less than 100 dollars. Perhaps, this has something to do with the fact that all who belong to God are bought and paid for. Christians are bought with the precious blood of the Lamb (Jesus Christ).

And I said unto her, Thou shalt abide for me many days; thou shalt not play the harlot, and thou shalt not be for another man: so will I also be for thee. Hos. 3:3

I said unto... Hosea must have been a wonderful man to obey the order to obtain a wife of whoredoms in the first place, and to show no resentment at being asked to buy her back again, after she had returned to her old lovers. He seemed to recognize the experience as part of God’s eternal message to his people; and being a true servant he did not question the wisdom of God.

Thou shalt abide... He simply made a cold contract with his wife to keep herself only to him for the price of $75 (Hos. 3:2). She shalt abide in seclusion at my discretion. The “many days” are an indefinite period of amendment, while watchful care was being exercised over her. During this time, she is to withdraw herself from her paramour and also from her husband. And wait in an unmarried condition, until I see it fit to espouse thee. Many days: It is not said how long, but a slave, as she is represented here, may not think this severe; the preferment will compensate her waiting.

thou shalt not... This is the third condition, she is to live chaste and modest, not to do as she had done. This was to settle her in a virtuous life, and to prove whether she would betake herself to a life praiseworthy.

and thou shalt... She was not to go with any other man, and was to keep herself for Hosea for "many days" (Hos. 3:3). The "many days" were applied to Israel being in dispersion and without being a nation (Hos. 3:3-4). Afterward they were to return to God and become His wife again as Gomer had become the wife of Hosea a second time after being away from him for a time (Hos. 3:5). She is bound to marry, none other, nor to commit adultery with any other.

so will I... In due time I will accomplish the contract, and, as I wait, so I will be for thee. So the deed is mutually sealed and signed.
This is a very personal Scripture. "Abide", in this particular instance, means sit still. This is like a punishment for her unfaithfulness. He does not take a chance on her being unfaithful with another man during this time. She is in isolation. He includes himself in this, as well. It seems for a period of time, she is totally separated from all contact with men.
This again, symbolizes the fact that Israel would be in captivity. She would not be able to play the harlot with her false gods, and she would be alienated from God at the same time. God would choose the length of time of her captivity, for her punishment for spiritual adultery.

For the children of Israel shall abide many days without a king, and without a prince, and without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an ephod, and without teraphim: Hos. 3:4

the children of... All this has been literally true for many centuries. From 606 B.C. until today they have not had a king or a prince. They did return from Babylon and renew the sacrifices, but since 70 A.D. they have not even had this. They have been without images and teraphim all these years so the prophecy has been literally fulfilled.

without an ephod... Idolatrous items of priestly clothing and objects of worship (idols in this case).

They have been stripped from all privileges of worship, as the harlot had been stripped of contact with her lovers. In the king and prince, we see they are stripped of their civil authority. All forms of religion had been stripped, as well. The image is representing the worship of false gods. The ephod was worn by the High Priest, and was their connection to God. God spoke to the people through the Urim and Thummim of the ephod of the High Priest. Soothsaying was done through the teraphim.

Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days. Hos. 3:5

Afterward shall the... This part remains to be completely fulfilled. The part about returning is now in process of fulfillment, but seeking the Lord and David their king, and fearing God in the latter days remain to be fulfilled at the second coming of Christ (Zech. 12:10-13:1; 14:1-21; Mal. 4:5-6; Rom. 11:25-29; Rev. 11:1-2, 11:15; 20:4-10).

David their king... David will be king over all Israel under the Messiah, but over the 12 apostles (Jer. 30:9; Eze. 34:23-24; 37:24).

the latter days... The tribulation period, Daniel's 70th week, etc.

and seek the... This must refer to Messiah during the Millennium, as “in the last days” specifies (compare 55:3-4; Jer. 30:9; Ezek. 34:23-24; 37:24-25). The Jews did not seek after Christ at His first advent. This reference has the Davidic Covenant as its background (2 Sam. 7:12-17; Psalms Chapters 39 and 132).

David in the Kingdom: Although Christ will reign as sovereign in the kingdom; it is not clear whether He is the only One on the throne. Several passages suggest that David will reign in the Millennium under the Messiah (Isa. 55:3-4; Jer. 30:9; 33:15, 17, 20-21; Ezek. 34:23-24; 37:24-25; Hosea 3:5; Amos 9:11).
These verses may be interpreted:
(1) Literally, with David being resurrected, returning to the throne, and have a sphere of regal authority under the regency of Christ.
One of Christ’s millennial titles, “King of kings, and Lord of lords” (Rev. 19:16), may suggest the presence of lesser kings and lords. So it will be that David will serve under Christ’s authority as vice-regent of Israel, just as others may similarly rule other regions or cities (Luke 19:12-18).
Those who suffer for Christ will someday reign with Him (2 Sam. 7:12-16; Psalm 89:34-37; Ezek. Chapter 47).
This is clearly slated to happen in the latter days. When they seek the LORD, they will find Him. Will find David, their king, reigning with the One they call Messiah, and we call Jesus. There will be a day of repentance. They are bought and paid for with that precious blood. We see in the following Scripture that God is God of all, not just a few.
1 Timothy 4:10 "For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe."
He provided salvation for everyone. Some will not accept that salvation. There is much controversy about these 10 tribes (Israel), and what happened to them. In the physical, they would be very hard to trace. In the spiritual sense, they are the lost world that comes to Christ, represented by the remnant consisting of all the tribes of Israel. Every person who ever lived, was a sinner, just like Israel before they came to Christ.
All Christians have been bought with the precious blood of Jesus, just like these of Israel were bought by God. Perhaps, this whole chapter has been speaking of all people who are away from God until Jesus came and set them free. It is God's goodness and mercy that saves us, not some act upon our part. We actually deserve to die for our sins. The wages of sin is death. Jesus marked our bill Paid in Full.
I will give a selection of Scriptures that help on this.
Romans 11:26-27 "And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:" "For this [is] my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins."
Romans 9:6-8 "Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they [are] not all Israel, which are of Israel:" "Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, [are they] all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called." "That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these [are] not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed."
Galatians 3:29 "And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."

2 Thessalonians Chapter 2 Part One

2 Thessalonians Chapter 2 Part One

2 Thessalonians 2:1 "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and [by] our gathering together unto him,"

“Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ”: This is the fifth mention of Christ’s coming in the Thessalonian letters (1 Thess. 2:19; 3:13; 4:15; 5:23). The aspect of His particular coming in view here is identified by the next phrase “our gathering together,” which conveys the idea of all believers meeting together with the Lord Jesus, obviously referring to the rapture of the church described in 1 Thess. 4:13-18 and John 14:1-3.

See Hebrews 10:25 for the only other use of this phrase in the New Testament. This was the event the Thessalonians were anticipating (1 Thess. 1:10; 3:13; 5:9).

“Our gathering together” is a reference to the Rapture (1 Thess. 4:17).

Paul, in this first verse, is recognizing the fact that these things are valid to believe. He is not telling them not to believe in these things. He is saying they might not be coming in just a few days. This was the stir in Thessalonica. They had decided that the second coming of Christ was to be immediately.

Paul says, I believe it too, but let us look clearer to when this shall take place. All Christians should believe in the coming again of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is coming for those who are looking for Him. Our "gathering together unto Him", is the same as the time when the trump of God blows in the sky, and we go to meet our Lord in the sky.

The silver trumpet of redemption (the trump of the gathering) will blow, and we shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye to an incorruptible being.

2 Thessalonians 2:2 "That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand."

“Shaken” (Greek saleuo) denotes great anxiety and pain. The Thessalonians were deeply troubled about this matter.

This term has been used of an earthquake (Acts 16:26) and a ship at anchor slipping its mooring in the midst of a heavy wind. Along with the word “disturbed,” it describes the state of agitation and alarm that had griped the church they were greatly distressed because they had expected the Rapture, the gathering together to the Lord, to take place before the Day of the Lord.

They had expected to be taken to glory and heavenly rest, not left to persecution and divine wrath. Paul must have taught them that they would miss the Day of the Lord (1 Thess. 5:2-5; Rev. 3:10), but they had become confused by the persecution they were experiencing, thinking they may have been in the Day of the Lord.

This error had been reinforced by some messages to them claiming that they were indeed in the Day of the Lord. Paul noted the source of these as “spirit,” “message,” and letter.” A “spirit” would most likely refer to a false prophet claiming divine revelation as in 1 John 4:1-3. A “message” would refer to a sermon or speech given, while a “letter” indicated a written report.

The powerful by harmful effect of this false information was gained by claiming it was from the Apostle Paul (“as if from us”). Whoever was telling them they were in the Day of the Lord claimed that it came from Paul who heard, it, preached it, and wrote it. Thus their lie was given supposed apostolic sanction.

The result was shock, fear, and alarm. Obviously, they had expected the Rapture before the Day of the Lord. For if they had expected it after, they would have rejoiced because Christ’ coming was to be soon. Apostolic authenticity in this letter which corrects the error was important and account for Paul’s care to close the letter in his distinctive handwriting (3:7; Gal 6:11).

“As that the day of Christ is at hand” (literally “as though the day of Christ is present”): These people thought the day of the Lord had already begun.

The idea that the Day of the Lord had already come conflicted with what Paul had previously taught them about the Rapture. This error, which so upset the Thessalonians, is what Paul corrected in verses 3-12, where he showed that the day hadn’t come and couldn’t until certain realities were in place, most especially “the man of lawlessness” (verse 3).

This is the purpose of the letter. They had decided that His coming would be in the next few days or weeks, and they had been shaken in their spirit because of this. We do know that for each person there is no more than 100 years to wait, because if they go the way of the grave, they die within 100 years.

This really is not speaking of that. This is the fact that they were expecting Him to come while they were alive, and were setting a time schedule on this. They were overly excited thinking the time was really soon. It is dangerous to set times.

Verses 3-4: “Falling away” (the apostasy): the Day of the Lord cannot occur until a deliberate abandonment of a formerly professed position, allegiance, or commitment occurs (the term was used to refer to military, political or religious rebellion). Some have suggested, on questionable linguistic evidence that this refers to “departure” in the sense of the Rapture.

Context, however, points to a religious defection, which is further described in verse 4. The language indicates a specific event, not general apostasy which exists now and always will. Rather, Paul has in mind the apostasy. This is an event which is clearly and specifically identifiable and unique, the consummate act of rebellion, and event of final magnitude.

The key to identifying the event is to identify the main person, which Paul does, calling him the “man of lawlessness.” Some texts have “man of sin,” but there is no real difference in meaning since sin equals lawlessness (1 John 3:4). This is the one who is called “the prince who is to come” (Dan. 9:26) and “the little horn” (Dan. 7-8) who John calls “the beast” (Rev. 13:2-10, 18) and most know as the Antichrist.

The context and language clearly identify a real person in future times who actually does the things prophesied of him in Scripture. He is also called “the son of perdition” or destruction, a term used of Judas Iscariot (John 17:12). This “apostasy” is the abomination of desolation that takes place at the midpoint of the Tribulation, spoken of in Dan. 9:27; 11:3 and Matt. 24:15).

This man is not Satan, although Satan is the force behind him (verse 9) and he has motives like the desires of the devil (14:13-14). Paul is referring to the very act of ultimate apostasy which reveals the final Antichrist and sets the course for the events that usher in the Day of the Lord.

Apparently, he will be seen as supportive of religion so that God and Christ will not appear as his enemies until the apostasy. He exalts himself and opposes God by moving into the temple, the place for worship of God, declaring him to be God and demanding the worship of the world. In this act of satanic self-deification, he commits the great apostasy in defiance of God.

For the first 3-1/2 years of the Tribulation, he maintains relations with Israel, but halts those (Dan. 9:27); and for the last 3-1/2 years, there is a great tribulation under his reign (Dan. 7:25; 11:36-39; Matt. 24:15-21; Rev. 13:1-8) culminating with the Day of the Lord.

2 Thessalonians 2:3 "Let no man deceive you by any means: for [that day shall not come], except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;"

“Falling away” (Greek apostasia) is the great and final apostasy or repudiation of the Christian faith that will occur at the appearance of “the son of perdition (the Antichrist) (1 Tim. 5:1-5; 2 Tim. 3:1-5).

“Man of sin” (some manuscripts read “man of lawlessness”): This is the beast out of the sea (Rev. 13:1), the little horn (Dan. 7:8), and the false Christ who will aim to rule the world (Rev. 13:15-17). This is the Antichrist.

The word “apostasy” means “a standing away from” in the sense of a falling away, withdrawal, or defection from the truth. It may be the result of persecution (Matt. 24:9-10), false teachers (Matt. 24:11), temptation (Luke 8:13), worldliness (2 Tim 4:4), inadequate knowledge of Christ (1 John 2:19), moral lapse (Heb. 6:4-6), forsaking spiritual living and worship (Heb. 10:25-31), or unbelief (Heb. 3:12).

While there are those in every generation who fall away, this will be a general condition prior to the revelation of the Antichrist. In classical Greek, the word apostasy was used of a revolt staged by a military commander.

This "apostasy", spoken of here, as a falling away from the church was not evident then, but is certainly going on today in the church. Before the coming of the Lord, there will be a great falling away from the church. The son of perdition, here, is speaking of the devil spirit in the antichrist. This is speaking of the man of perdition bringing sin in the church.

Judas Iscariot was spoken of as son of perdition. This does not mean that it is Judas. It means someone who has sold out to Satan. He is totally controlled by Satan. The reason people will listen to, and follow this man of sin, is that he will do wonders. The Bible says he will even be able to call down fire from heaven.

You may read about this in the 13th chapter of Revelation. I personally believe this man of sin has already begun his nasty work.

2 Thessalonians 2:4 "Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God."

“Sitteth in the temple of God” parallels the “abomination of desolation” (Matt. 24:15; Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11). When the Antichrist desecrates the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem, he will usurp worship for himself.

If he is not for Christ, he is antichrist. This has been the old devil's trick ever since Lucifer was thrown out of heaven. He wanted to be greater than God. He always appeals to the ego of man. His trick with Eve was telling her the fruit of the tree would make her wise like God. He lied then, and he has lied to the antichrist as well. He uses people vulnerable to believe his lies.

The antichrist is not satisfied with being opposed to Christ, but actually wants to sit in the place of God in the temple. He appears as an angel of light.

2 Corinthians 11:14 "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."

There are several opinions of where he will be seated; some believe in the temple in Jerusalem, others believe that he will take his place as the authority in the church of the Christians. Paul many times spoke of the believers in Christ as the temple of God. We do know that a Moslem temple presently sits over the location of the temple in Jerusalem.

One, or all of these things, perhaps, will happen. It really does not matter. Our job is to be so full of the Word of God that we will not be deceived into believing the antichrist. It is a dangerous thing to want to be God.

2 Thessalonians 2:5 " Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?"

“I told you”: The imperfect tense is used indicating repeated action in past time. Apparently, Paul on numerous occasions had taught them the details of God’s future plans. Here, he reminded them of the issues which proved the false teachers wrong about the Day of the Lord.

Paul had before told them that the revealing of the Antichrist preceded the Day of the Lord; since he has not yet been revealed they could not possibly be in that Day.

Paul is reminding them that he had preached about these very things, when he was with them. It is a wonderful thing to be looking for the soon coming of the Lord, but it is a bad thing to let it trouble you. Paul is saying, shame on you for not realizing that God will see you through whatever situation you find yourself in, if you will put your trust in Him.

Verses 6-7: “Ye know what withholdeth” literally means “restrains,” the same word translated “letteth” in verse 7. The restrainer is the Holy Spirit, who will restrain sin throughout the church age until “He be taken out of the way,” that is until His restraining influence is removed. This will occur at the Rapture of the church remember that we Christians are the temple of the Holy Spirit when the church is raptured the Holy Spirit goes with us.

2 Thessalonians 2:6 "And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time."

“Withholdeth”: While the Thessalonians already had been taught and thus knew what was restraining the coming of the Antichrist, Paul does not say specifically in this letter; thus many suggestions have been made to identify the restraining force of verses 6-7.

These include: (1) human government; (2) preaching of the gospel; (3) the binding of Satan; (4) the providence of God; (5) the Jewish state; (6) the church; (7) the Holy Spirit; and (8) Michael.

Whatever now restrains the Antichrist of verses 3-4, 8-10 from being revealed in the fullness of his apostasy and evil, must be more than human or even angelic power. The power that holds back Satan from bringing the final apostasy and unveiling of his Satan-possessed false Christ must be divinely supernatural.

It must be God’s power in operation that holds back Satan, so that the man of sin, the son of destruction, won’t be able to come until God permits it by removing the restraining power. The reason for the restraint was so that Antichrist would be revealed at God’s appointed time and no sooner, just as was Christ (Gal. 4:4) because God controls Satan.

God has a time schedule when all of these things will happen. The man of sin cannot appear and do these things, until the Lord gives him permission to go ahead. Satan cannot do anything without permission from God to do it. Satan is not in control, the Lord is. The antichrist will appear on the scene, when God gets ready for him to and not one minute earlier.

2 Thessalonians 2:7 "For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [will let], until he be taken out of the way."

“The mystery of iniquity’: This is the spirit of lawlessness already prevalent in society (1 John 3-4; 5:17), but still a mystery in that it is not fully revealed as it will be in the one who so blatantly opposes God that he blasphemously assumes the place of God on earth which God has reserved for Jesus Christ.

The spirit of such a man is already in operation (1 John 2:18; 4:30, but the man who fully embodies that spirit has not come.

“Taken out of the way”: This refers not to spatial removal but rather “a stepping aside.” The idea is “out of the way,” not gone (Col. 2:14 where our sins are taken out of the way as a barrier to God.

We know this to be true, because we know that the spirit of the devil entered into Judas Iscariot, and he betrayed Jesus. There has always been a battle going on with good and evil ever since the Garden of Eden. Man has a free will. He can follow Jesus, or he can follow Satan.

The antichrist would not have to be the antichrist, if he would follow Jesus. The antichrist has chosen to be an instrument of Satan. The flesh of mankind has always been opposed to the spirit of mankind. The temptations of the flesh are what cause mankind to sin. The free will of mankind chooses to follow the flesh, or the spirit.

Mystery is many times veiled around evil. We know that even Babylon is called, mystery Babylon. It is definitely a mystery why anyone would follow evil instead of good. The only answer to that is they have fallen for a deception. All who oppose Christ are antichrist, but there is a person who personifies this in the end time, and he is the antichrist.

When the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit as teacher and guide is removed, then the antichrist will bring lawlessness and sin like the world has never known. Even now this influence is working in the children of disobedience.

The presence of the Holy Spirit in this world to some extent restrains evil. Often this is accomplished through the presence of Christians who are the “salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13). At the rapture, when the Christians are removed and the age of the Holy Spirit ceases, this restraining ministry will be “taken out of the way” then starts the Tribulation. Until that time, God will use the godly examples of Christians to restrain evil in the world.

2 Thessalonians 2:8 "And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:"

“Then shall that Wicked be revealed” (literally, “Then shall that lawless one be revealed”): Paul argues that the day of the Lord simply does not begin until the restraint by the Holy Spirit is removed, and the Antichrist is revealed. Since none of this had occurred, the day of the Lord had not yet come.

At the divinely decreed moment just before the start of the Tribulation when God removes the divine restraint, Satan, who has been promoting the spirit of lawlessness (verse 7), is finally allowed to fulfill has desire to imitate God by indwelling a man who will perform his will as Jesus did God’s. This also fits God’s plan for the consummation of evil and the judgment of the Day of the Lord.

“The Lord shall consume”: Death occurs at God’s hand (Dan. 7:26; Rev. 17:11) and this man and his partner, the false prophet, will be cast alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone, where he will be eternally separated from God. (Rev.1:20; 20:10).

“His coming”: The aspect of His coming in view here is not the rapture of the church, but the Lord’s coming in judgment on that day when He conquers the forces of Satan and sets up his millennial kingdom (Rev. 19: 11-21).

The workings of the evil one are in the world even now, but the teaching by the Holy Spirit of God is keeping him from having the influence he would over the people. When that wicked day comes, the antichrist will have great power. He will no longer be working in secret and in a subtle way.

"The Spirit of the Lord's mouth" is the Word of God. Truth does away with deception. The Word of God is Truth. His brightness is above all other brightness in the world. He is the source of all light. His Light completely destroys darkness in the world.

Darkness cannot remain where the Light is. This Light reveals all. We have spoken over and over how evil is the darkness of this world. We, also, know that Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. When these two meet, Jesus' Light does away with all darkness.

1 Timothy Chapter 3

1 Timothy Chapter 3

Verses 1-13: Paul’s purpose in writing this letter was to instruct Timothy regarding the church (verses 14-15). Of primary importance to any church is that its leaders be qualified to teach and set the example for the rest. These verses delineate those qualifications for pastors and deacons (see Titus 1:5-9).
1 Timothy 3:1 "This [is] a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work."
“This is a true saying” (see 1:15).
“Desire … desireth”: Two different Greek words are used. The first means “to reach out after.” It describes external action, not internal motive. The second means “a strong passion,” and refers to an inward desire. Taken together, these two words aptly describe the type of man who belongs in the ministry, one who outwardly pursues it because he is driven by a strong internal desire.
“Bishop”: The word identifies the men who are responsible to lead the church (5:17; 1 Thess. 5:12; Heb. 13:7). In the New Testament, the words “bishop,” “elder,” “overseer”, and “pastor” are used interchangeably to describe the same men (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Pet. 5:1-2).
Bishops (pastors, overseer, elders), are responsible to lead (5:17), preach and teach (5:17), help the spiritually weak (1 Thess. 5:12-14), care for the church (1 Pet. 5:1-2), and ordain other leaders (4:14).
We could render the verse as follows: “This is a reliable statement: if anyone strives for the position of overseer, he desires a noble task” (see Philippians 1:1 for “bishops” and “overseers).”
The pastor, who shepherds today’s church, also fulfills the New Testament role of elder and bishop (overseer), and is responsible to God for the spiritual welfare of the church (Acts 20:28). When Christ returns, He will judge and reward these pastors (elders), according to their faithfulness in leading the church to accomplish God’s will (1 Peter 5:4).
There are at least seven different titles for the New Testament pastor. The term elder is used over 20 times, emphasizing the pastor’s wisdom and maturity. The title bishop emphasizes the administrative function of the office. The word pastor emphasizes the responsibility of caring for the church, as a shepherd cares for the sheep.
The word preacher emphasizes the ministry of publicly proclaiming God’s Word. The title teacher emphasizes that the pastor should be “apt to teach.” The pastor is also called a servant, reminding him that he is to minister to others; and he is a steward, managing the property of others (the church of Christ).
Both Timothy and Titus were pastors of churches started by Paul, who wrote Pastoral Epistles to them.
Christians should be supportive of their pastors, as they attempt to fulfill their biblical ministry (Jer. 2:8; 1 Tim. 3:1-7).
1 Timothy 3:2 "A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;"
“Must” The use of this Greek particle stresses emphatically that living a blameless life is necessary for church leaders.
“Blameless”: Literally “not able to be held” in a criminal sense; there is no valid accusation of wrongdoing that can be made against him. No overt, flagrant sin can mar the life of one who must be an example for this people to follow (verse 10; 4:16; 5:7; Psalm 101:6; Philippians 3:17; 2 Thess. 3:9; Heb. 13:7; 1 Pet. 5:3).
This is the overarching requirement for elders. The rest of the qualifications elaborate on what it means to be blameless. Titus (1:6-7), uses another Greek word to mean the same thing.
“The husband of one wife”: Literally in Greek a “one woman man.” This says nothing about marriage or divorce (for comments on that see verse 4). The issue is not the elder’s marital status, but his moral and sexual purity. This qualification heads the list, because it is in this area that leaders are most prone to fail.
Various interpretations of this qualification have been offered. Some see it as a prohibition against polygamy. An unnecessary injunction since polygamy was not common in Roman society and clearly forbidden by Scripture (Gen. 2:24), the teaching of Jesus (Matt. 19:5-6; Mark 10:6-9), and Paul (Eph. 5:31).
A polygamist could not even have been a church member, let alone a church leader. Others see this requirement as barring those who remarried after the death of their wives. But, as already noted, the issue is sexual purity, not marital status. Further, the Bible encourages remarriage after widowhood (5:14; 1 Cor. 7:39).
Some believe that Paul here excludes divorced men from church leadership. That again ignores the fact that this qualification does not deal with marital status. Nor does the Bible prohibit all remarriage after divorce (see Matt. 5:31-32; 19:9; 1 Cor. 7:15).
Finally, some think that this requirement excludes single men from church leadership. But if that were Paul’s intent, he would have disqualified himself (1 Cor. 7:8). A “one-woman man” is one totally devoted to his wife, maintaining singular devotion, affection and sexual purity in both thought and deed. To violate this is to forfeit blamelessness and no longer be “above reproach” (Titus 1:6-7; Proverbs 6:32-33).
“Sober”: The Greek word means “wineless,” but is here used metaphorically to mean “alert,” “watchful”, “vigilant” or “clear-headed.” Elders must be able to think clearly.
“Vigilant”: A “vigilant” man is disciplined, knows how to properly order his priorities, and is serious about spiritual matters.
“Good behavior”: The Greek word means “orderly.” Elders must not lead chaotic lives; if they cannot order their own lives, how can they bring order to the church?
“Hospitality”: From a compound Greek word meaning “love of strangers” (see Rom. 12:13; Heb. 13:2; 1 Pet. 4:9). As with all spiritual virtues, elders must set the example; their lives and homes are to be open so all can see their spiritual character.
“Apt to teach”: Used only here and (in 2 Tim. 2:24). The only qualification relating to an elder’s giftedness and spiritual ability; and the only one that distinguishes elders from deacons. The preaching and teaching of God’s Word is the overseer/pastor/elder’s primary duty (4:6, 11, 13; 5:17; 2 Tim. 2:15, 24; Titus 2:1).
We see that the leader of the church must be someone who has a very high moral character. "Vigilant" means sober. The reason sober is mentioned twice is, possibly, because it means to be sober in spirit and in flesh.
Given to hospitality is a description of what every Christian should be. You may read of this (in Romans chapter 12 beginning with verse 5). To teach the Word of God is a high calling. The great powers in this world are the written and the spoken Word of God.
1 Timothy 3:3 "Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;"
“Not given to wine”: More than a mere prohibition against drunkenness (see Eph. 5:18). An elder must not have a reputation as a drinker; his judgment must never be clouded by alcohol (Prov. 31:4-5; 1 Cor. 6:12), his lifestyle must be radically different from the world and lead others to holiness, not sin (Rom. 14:21; see 5:23).
“No striker” means not physically violent. Literally not a giver of blows. Elders must react to difficult situations calmly and gently (2 Tim. 2:24-25).
Not greedy” means not fond of dishonest gain. Literally, “not a lover of money”: His main priority is not the acquisition of money. Materialism ill befits one called above all to care for the spiritual welfare of souls.
“Patient” means not quarrelsome, peaceable; that is, does not argue over minor matters or always seeks to have his way. But defers to the wishes of others when no cardinal doctrine or policy is sacrificed.
“Patient”: “Peaceful,” “reluctant to fight”; one who does not promote disunity or disharmony.
“Not a brawler”: Considerate, genial, gracious, quick to pardon failure, and one who does not hold a grudge.
“Not covetous,” These are more things showing that the character of the leader of the church must be an example to the members. Strong drink causes the person drinking to not be able to make sound judgments. Some of the things here mentioned come from losing control of your own will.
Elders must be motivated by love for God and His people, not money (Titus 1:7; 1 Pet. 5:2). A leader who is in the ministry for money reveals a heart set on the world, not the things of God (Matt. 6:24; 1 John 2:15). Covetousness characterizes false teachers (1Titus 1:11; 2 Pet. 2:1-3, 14; Jude 11), but not Paul’s ministry (Acts 20:33; 1 Cor. 9:1-16; 2 Cor. 11:9; 1 Thess. 2:5).
We should be careful to note (not greedy for filthy lucre). Greed for money has been the downfall of many. To covet is specifically spoken against in the 10 commandments. When you want anything that belongs to someone else, you are coveting.
Fighting should not be part of the minister's vocabulary. These things go against a tender kind, patient spirit that the minister needs.
1 Timothy 3:4 "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;"
“One that ruleth well his own house”: The elder’s home life, like his personal life, must be exemplary. He must be one who “manages” (presides over, has authority over), “his own household” (everything connected with his home, not merely his wife and children), “well” (intrinsically good; excellently).
Issues of divorce should be related to this matter A divorced man gives no evidence of a well-managed home, but rather that divorce shows weakness in his spiritual leadership. If there has been a biblically permitted divorce, it must have been so far in the past as to have been overcome by a long pattern of solid family leadership and the rearing of godly children (verse 4, Titus 1:6).
“In subjection”: A military term referring to soldiers ranked under one in authority. An elder’s children must be believers (see “faithful” in Titus 1:6), well-behaved, and respectful.
“Ruleth well his own house” means that he manages his family rightly. “Having his children in subjection” means that he brings about “with all gravity” (in a dignified manner), obedience in his children.
The leadership that the minister would need to lead the church members should be evident in the home, as well. Children obey your parents. Parents, make your children obey you.
1 Timothy 3:5 "(For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)"
“Take care of the church of God”: An elder must first prove in the intimacy and exposure of his own home his ability to lead others to salvation and sanctification. There he proves God has gifted him uniquely to spiritually set the example of virtue, to serve others, resolve conflicts, build unity and maintain love.
If he cannot do those essential things there, why would anyone assume he would be able to do them in the church?
Paul’s reasoning is from the lesser to the greater: a man poorly managing his own family is incapable of giving proper leadership to the church family.
This just means that someone who cannot take care of his own personal affairs should not be the leader of the church, because he has proven that he is not leadership material.
1 Timothy 3:6 "Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil."
Not a novice … lifted up with pride”: Putting a new convert into a leadership role would tempt him to pride. Elders, therefore, are to be drawn from the spiritually mature men of the congregation (see 5:22).
“Fall into the condemnation of the devil”: Satan’s condemnation was due to pride over his position. It resulted in his fall from honor and authority (Isa. 14:12-14; Ezek. 28:11-19; Prov. 16:18). The same kind of fall and judgment could easily happen to a new and weak believer put in a position of spiritual leadership.
“Not a novice:” He is not a new convert or young Christian. We may render the last part of the verse: “lest, being conceited, he fall into judgment incurred by the Devil.” As Satan fell through pride, similarly a neophyte could be ruined by pride after being promoted to leadership too swiftly.
This would be someone who had not been grounded in the Word of God. This would be someone who wanted this job for the power to rule over others.
A novice means newly planted. A tree that has been recently planted does not have deep solid roots. The roots that are necessary to lead a church would be grounded solidly in the Word of God. Winds of false doctrine would not be able to uproot him, because he would be solidly planted (over much time), in the teachings of the Word of God.
Lucifer fell to the temptation of pride. This is possibly, what is meant here.
1 Timothy 3:7 "Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
“A good report”: A leader in the church must have an unimpeachable reputation in the unbelieving community, even though people there may disagree with his moral and theological stands. How can he make a spiritual impact on those who do not respect him? (Matthew 5:48; Phil. 2:15).
The overseer must not be the object of justified criticism (Luke 6:26), by non-Christians (“them that are without”). Otherwise, he is likely to become a target for “reproach” or “disgrace”, “and the snare” sprung by “the devil.”
“The devil goes around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”. All eyes will be on the leader of the church. The leader of the church must live without even giving the appearance of evil. Any misconduct upon the part of the leader, opens the gate for the devil to deceive the members.
Paul had said before, to follow him as he followed Jesus. This should be the pattern of all who minister. They should live a life free from sin.



Verses 8-13: The word deacon derives from a Greek word for servant; hence, the deacons are a serving office in the church. In order to free the apostles for the more important duties of prayer and ministry of the Word, seven men were appointed to care for the church. These are generally thought to have been deacons (Acts 6:1-4).
While there is no “job description” for a servant, the nature of a deacon’s qualifications gives insight into his duties (Acts 6:1-8; 1 Tim. 3:8-13).
The first deacons performed routine labors in the church, and were responsible for promoting harmony among various groups within the assembly. Deacons may also have served in an advisory capacity, and they engaged in spiritual ministries, including preaching and church planting.
In one sense, every Christian should act like a deacon in encouraging church harmony and helping others serve Christ more effectively (Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8-13; Eph. 4:11).
1 Timothy 3:8 "Likewise [must] the deacons [be] grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;"
“Deacons”: from a word group meaning “to serve”. Originally referring to menial tasks such as waiting on tables (see Acts 6:1-4), “deacon” come to denote any service in the church.
Deacons serve under the leadership of elders, helping them exercise oversight in the practical matters of church life. Scripture defines no official or specific responsibilities for deacons; they are to do whatever the elders assign them or whatever spiritual ministry is necessary.
“Must be grave”: Serious in mind and character; not silly or flippant about important matters and worthy of respect.
“Not double-tongued” means saying the same thing to one party as to the other. Their speech must not be hypocritical, but honest and consistent.
“Not given to much wine”: Not preoccupied with drink (see verse 3).
“Not greedy of filthy lucre” means not being fond of dishonest financial profits. The same word is used (in verse 3). Deacons must not abuse their office to make money. Such a qualification was especially important in the early church, where deacons routinely handled money, distributing it to those in need.
When we think of someone who is double tongued, we think of a two-faced person. They are unstable in all of their ways. They cannot be trusted, because they say whatever is convenient to say at the time, whether it is true or not. We see from the description above that this person needs to be in full control of his thoughts at all-time (not given too much drink).
Greed certainly must not be a character trait of a deacon. One of the jobs of the deacon of the church is to see to the financial needs of the church. The minister should not be involved with raising money for the church to function on. That is the job of the deacon.
The minister should be interested in the souls of the people. His time should be spent in prayer and the study of the Word of God. He is like the shepherd who sees to the need of the flock.
1 Timothy 3:9 "Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience."
“The mystery” (see Matt. 13:11; 1 Cor. 2:7; Eph. 3:4-5). Appearing frequently in Paul’s writings (Rom. 11:25; 16:25; Eph. 1:9; 3:9; 6:19; Col. 2:2), the word “mystery”, describes truth previously hidden, but now revealed truth in the Word of God.
Including Christ’s incarnation (verse 16), Christ’s indwelling of believers (Cor. 1:26-27), the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the church (Eph. 3:4-6), the gospel (Col. 4:3), lawlessness (2 Thess. 2:7), and the rapture of the church (1 Cor. 15:51-52).
“A pure conscience” (see 1:5).
“Holding the mystery of the faith:” As capable apologists and defenders, deacons must preserve the truth as God revealed it.
What is a mystery? Something not understood. We know that Jesus opened our understanding to the mystery of God, when He sent the Holy Spirit to instruct us into all Truth. A Christian with a clear conscience is one who is allowing Christ in them to live through them.
A pure conscience is one not worried over whether you are doing right, or wrong. You know you are doing right, because you have turned your will over to the Lord.
1 Timothy 3:10 "And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being [found] blameless."
“First be proved”: The present tense of this verb indicates an ongoing evaluation of deacons’ character and service by the church.
“Found blameless” (see verse 2).
The verse may be translated, “and let these too, first be examined; then let them serve as deacon, if found blameless.” This probably refers not to a probationary period, but to an examination of the required qualities of character. The word “too” implies that this requirement applies also to overseers (elders).
Some ministers will not let anyone serve as a deacon, until they have attended their church for several years. This is so they can get to know them, and find out how they react in time of crisis. The deacon must be of very high moral character. He must be of such a nature that he will be an upright representative of the church.
Before he is given this office there must be an examination of his character so there will not be something come up unexpected in the future. When found of high moral character, and then he should be awarded the job of deacon.
1 Timothy 3:11 "Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things."
Paul likely here refers not to deacons’ wives, but to the women who serve as deacons. The use of the word “likewise” (verse 8), suggests a third group in addition to elders and deacons. Also, since Paul gave no requirements for elders’ wives, there is no reason to assume these would be qualifications for deacons’ wives.
“Grave” (see verse 8).
“Not slanderers”: Or Malicious gossips. “Malicious gossips are a plural form of diabolos, a title frequently given to Satan (Matt. 4:5, 8, 11; 13:39; Luke 4:3, 5-6, 13; 8:12; 1 Peter 5:8; 1 John 3:8; Rev. 2:10; 12:9, 12; 20:2, 10). The women who serve must not be slanderous and malicious in their speech.
“Sober” (see verse 2).
“Faithful in all things”: Women servants in the church, like their male counterparts (see verse 2), must be absolutely trustworthy in all aspects of their lives and ministries.
We see in this, that the entire family must be godly people for the husband to be deacon. It is always important for the husband and wife to be totally agreed, before a married person answers the call to serve God. It would be impossible to serve the way it is necessary to serve, without this agreement.
There are requirements pertaining to the entire family, when one serves the Lord. Husbands and wives are one in the flesh, so it is absolutely necessary for them to agree. They must both be of very high character.
1 Timothy 3:12 "Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well."
“Husbands of one wife” (see verse 2).
“Ruling their children and their own houses” (see verse 4).
Again, we see the necessity for the home to be on solid ground before one is called to serve. To be in leadership in the church, it is important to show your leadership in the family first.
1 Timothy 3:13 "For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."
The verse may be translated, “For they who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and much joyful confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.” This “good standing” is spiritual progress acquired by faithful church service.
It is especially important for the deacon to be bold in the Lord, since he is responsible for seeing to the needs of the church. We do know that men who are chosen out for this job have a big task to do. Their faith in Christ Jesus is extremely important. They must believe in the work that is going on, to be able to feel free to work to keep it going.



Verses 14-16: These verses mark a transition point between the positive instruction of the first 3 chapters and the warnings of the last 3. They reveal the heart of the church’s mission (verse 15), and message (verse 16).
In (verses 14-15): “Hoping to come unto thee shortly”: The Greek grammar suggests Paul’s meaning is “These things I write, although I had hoped to come to you sooner.” Delayed in Macedonia, Paul sent Timothy this letter.
1 Timothy 3:14 "These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:"
Paul loved Timothy, and really wanted to be with him. We think why did Paul not go, if he wanted to? The answer is that Paul followed the will of God, not what he desired to do in the flesh.
1 Timothy 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."
“How thou oughtest to behave thyself”: The second half of this verse expresses the theme of this epistle, setting things right in the church.
“House of God”: Believers are members of God’s household (Gal 6:10; Eph. 2:19; Heb. 3:6; 1 Pet. 4:17), and must act accordingly. This is not a reference to any building, but to the people who make up the true church.
“Church of the living God”: The church is God’s possession (Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:14; Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:9). The title “the living God” has a rich Old Testament heritage (Deut. 5:26; Josh. 3:10; 1 Sam. 17:26, 36; 2 Kings 19:4, 16; Psalms 42:4; 84:2; Isa. 37:4, 17; Jer. 10:10; 23:26; Dan 6:20, 26; Hos. 1:10).
“Pillar and ground”: The word translated “support” appears only here in the New Testament and denotes the foundation on which a building rests. The church upholds the truth of God’s revealed Word.
“The truth”: The content of the Christian faith recorded in Scripture and summed up (in verse 16).
If Paul should delay (“tarry long”), in visiting Timothy, this epistle instructs him how he must “behave” himself “in the house of God.” That is, how to properly order his personal conduct in the church, and how to manage church affairs as a leader.
Timothy must comply with Paul’s directions because “the church’ belongs to “God” and is “the pillar” [support] “and ground” [foundation] “of the truth”. If church members and affairs do not conform to the standards set forth in this epistle, the bulwark of the truth (the church), will be seriously undermined.
Paul was aware that he might not be able to go and tell Timothy personally all the things he wanted him to know. The letter would bring instructions to this young minister from his teacher, Paul. We see in this letter, that the meeting place of the believers in Christ was spoken of as the church of the living God.
The Word "living" says a lot in itself. It means that Christians believe the Lord Jesus Christ is alive. We believe he rose from the grave. Paul is explaining to Timothy that he must behave in such a way as to be an example for the others on how they should live. The church is to be the pillar and the truth in this world.
1 Timothy 3:16 "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."
This verse contains part of an early church hymn, as its uniformity, rhythm, and parallelism indicate. Its 6 lines from a concise summary of the truth of the gospel.
“Mystery of godliness”: “Mystery” is that term used by Paul to indicate truth hidden in the Old Testament age and revealed in the New Testament (see verse 9). “Godliness” refers to the truths of salvation and righteousness in Christ, which produce holiness in believers; namely, the manifestation of true and perfect righteousness in Jesus Christ.
“God … manifest”: This reference is clearly to Christ, who manifested the invisible God to mankind (John 1-4; 14:9; Col. 1:15; Heb. 1:3; 2 Pet. 1:16-18).
“In the flesh”: Not sinful, fallen human nature here (Rom. 17:18, 25; 8:8; Gal. 5:16-17), but merely humanness (John 1:14; Rom. 1:3; 8:3; 9:5; 1 Pet. 3:18; 1 John 4:2-3; 2 John 7).
“Justified in the Spirit”: “Justified” means “righteous”, so that “spirit” may be written with lower case “S”, indicating a declaration of Christ’s sinless spiritual righteousness (John 8:46; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 5:9; 7:26; 1 Pet. 2:21-22; 1 John 2:1), or it could refer to His vindication by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 1:4).
“Preached unto the Gentiles” (see Matt. 24:14; 26:13; 28:19-20; Mark 13:10; Acts 1:8).
“Received up into glory” (see Acts 1:9-10; Phil. 2:8-11; Heb. 1:3). Christ’s ascension and exaltation showed that the Father was pleased with Him and accepted His work fully.
Should he fail to do so, the heralding of the Christian faith will be hindered. “God was manifest in the flesh:” Jesus was revealed in human form. “Justified in the Spirit:” The Holy
Spirit vindicated Jesus in that His true nature was disclosed and His messianic claims substantiated.
“Seen of angels”: They witnessed Jesus’ whole earthly career. “Preached unto the Gentiles:” The gospel of Jesus has been proclaimed to the nations. “Believed on in the world:” Multitudes have accepted the gospel by trusting in Jesus. “Received up into glory:” Jesus was divinely taken back into heaven.
The mystery of godliness was revealed by Jesus Christ to His followers. The veil to the Scriptures was removed. The Spirit of God opens the understanding of the believers to the godliness, which is still a mystery to those of the world who do not accept Jesus as Savior.
God the Word took on the form of flesh and dwelt among us. His body was crucified on the cross for our sins. He preached the good news of the gospel 40 days on the earth before He went back to heaven. In the book of Acts we read about his heavenward journey.
Acts 1:9-11 "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight."
The great promise, to me, is what the angels told the disciples as they saw Him going up.
"And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;" "Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

My Sheep Hear My Voice-Rev. 12:8

My Sheep Hear My Voice-Rev. 12:8

Before Jesus was crucified He told the disciples to watch and pray, something so simple, but they let their physical bodies take over and they fell back asleep. In these last hours of time you need to hear His voice. When He tells you something, it is very important, but most ignore my voice or just discuss it and go on with what they were doing. You will see many things start to happen shortly and if you do not hear and obey His voice,... it will mean death for some of you....Jesus has only your best interest in mind. Christ knows you heart, and if you are truly His you will hear His voice. He awakes many of you at 3am on the dot, but most will roll over and go back to sleep. There are a few who will get up and pray. Your day is filled with so many things and Jesus is the last thing many of you give your time to. But Christ needs to talk to you,... to fellowship with you and only when you are still and quite (3am) can you hear Him,... the rest of your day is so busy you do not have time for Him,... but you need to make time, for time is short and the Lord has instructions for you.

Satan Thrown Down to Earth

And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. Rev. 12:8

and prevailed not... Greek: ischuo. Translated "prevail" (Rev. 12:8; Acts 19:16, 19:20) "be able" (Luke 13:24; 14:29-30; John 21:6; Acts 6:10; 15:10); "be of strength" (Heb. 9:17); "avail" (Gal. 5:6; 6:15; Jas. 5:16); and several other ways.

The vision of war in heaven anticipates Satan's exclusion from "heaven" and his restriction to the earth during the last half of the Great Tribulation, so that Satan must thereafter confine his activities to the earthly sphere. Michael the archangel is the leader of God's holy angels (Dan 10:13, 21; 12:1; Jude 9).

found any more... I believe there is an order of command in heaven as there is here on the earth. We see here, that not only the church of the Lord Jesus Christ is being attacked here on the earth, but that there is war in heaven as well. Here we see the defeat of Satan to such an extent that he is not allowed in heaven any more, not even to accuse the believers.
His defeat on the earth is complete as well. His doom was sealed when Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected.

The outcome of the war was that Satan was hurled to the earth, and his character was clearly revealed in the various titles ascribed to him: the great dragon… that ancient serpent… the devil or Satan. With him went the fallen angels of the demon world.

While the concept of Satan in heaven is difficult to comprehend, it is clear that he is now the accuser of saints (cf. Job 1:6; Rev. 12:10).

My Sheep Hear My Voice-Rev. 12:7

My Sheep Hear My Voice-Rev. 12:7

Before Jesus was crucified He told the disciples to watch and pray, something so simple, but they let their physical bodies take over and they fell back asleep. In these last hours of time you need to hear His voice. When He tells you something, it is very important, but most ignore my voice or just discuss it and go on with what they were doing. You will see many things start to happen shortly and if you do not hear and obey His voice,... it will mean death for some of you....Jesus has only your best interest in mind. Christ knows you heart, and if you are truly His you will hear His voice. He awakes many of you at 3am on the dot, but most will roll over and go back to sleep. There are a few who will get up and pray. Your day is filled with so many things and Jesus is the last thing many of you give your time to. But Christ needs to talk to you,... to fellowship with you and only when you are still and quite (3am) can you hear Him,... the rest of your day is so busy you do not have time for Him,... but you need to make time, for time is short and the Lord has instructions for you.

Satan Thrown Down to Earth

"And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, Rev. 12:7

War in Heaven

war in heaven... This war in heaven will be the last actual struggle between Satan and God over the possession of the heavenlies where Satan reigns (Eph_2:2; Eph_6:12). Satan still has access to God’s heaven to accuse the brethren, but from the time of this casting out he will never again enter heaven (Job 1:6; 2:1; Rev. 12:7-12; Zec. 3:1). The tumultuous events on earth during the Tribulation find their counterpart in heaven. A state of war has existed since the fall of Satan (compare verse 4, compare Dan. 10:13; Jude 9). Something will intensify that warfare, possible the raptured saints passing through the realm of the prince of the power of the air (compare Eph. 2:2).

I really believe that Michael is a very high-up angel directly under Jesus' command. The dragon here is Lucifer, which was an evil archangel.

Five facts about the war in heaven:

1. The fact: there will be a war (Rev. 12:7).

2. The time: in the middle of Daniel’s 70th week (Rev. 12:6-14; 13:1-5)

3. The place: in the heavenlies (Rev. 12:7; Eph. 2:2; 6:12)

4. The combatants (Rev. 12:7)

5. The result (Rev. 12:8-12)

The war predicted here could not be the same as the one in heaven (Isa. 14:12-14; Luke 10:18). That was in the dateless past before the six days’ work of Genesis 1:3-2:25. This war is yet future, for all events of Rev. 4:1-22:5 must be after the churches (Rev. 4:1). The only truth we find here in connection with the original war in heaven is that revealing how many angels originally fell with Lucifer (Rev. 12:4).

Michael and his... Dan. 10:13, 10:21; 12:1; Jude 1:9.

dragon fought and... Angels fight by physical contact in the same way that people do. They are capable of operation in the material and earthly realm. After all, heaven and other planets are of material substance like the earth. Angels have done and can do all things that men can do, plus some things people cannot do before becoming resurrected, immortalized, and being given glorified bodies like Christ who can appear and disappear, going through material substance (John 21:14). Angels are capable of being captured and confined by chains and prisons like people (Dan. 10:13-21; 2Pet. 2:4; Jude 1:6-7; Rev. 9:11, 9:14; 20:1-10). Here one army of angels is going to defeat and cast down another army of angels to the earth and confine them there (Rev. 12:7-12). All fallen ones will be confined to hell forever (Mat. 24:41; Rev. 20:10).

4. The Fourth Personage: Satan Cast Out Of Heaven (Rev. 12:7-12)

Michael the archangel (cf. Jude 1:9) and his angels fought Satan and his angels, that is, demons. The time of this war in heaven was not indicated but the context refers to the end time. The efforts of some expositors to make this coincidental with the first coming of Christ, linking it with Luke 10:18, are not justified by the context in Rev. 12:1-17. Also Satan is most obviously active throughout the period of the Church Age (cf. Acts 5:3; 1Cor. 5:5; 7:5; 2Cor. 2:11; 11:14; 12:7; 1Tim. 1:20; 1Pet. 5:8).

The concept that Satan is inactive in the present Age is a false conclusion based on an attempt to place the binding of Satan at the first coming of Christ (Rev. 20:1-3). However, the binding of Satan is still a future event that relates to the millennial kingdom.