Subject: what is ecotology |
Bible Note: HI Val, Wow, I have seen some loaded questions before, but...just kidding, sister -I am more than happy to do my best to answer. Actually, I do see the Book of Revelation as the most controversial book contained in the Bible, but the interpretation is not as complicated as most people think. There are so many interpretations of the symbolic meanings within, that it is possible to go to ten sources and get over twelve interpretations. I try to see past all the symbolic imagery to look towards the hope that is offered to all who suffer persecution and tribulations in this fallen world. When I speak to a Jewish adherent about the New Testament, I get the answer that it is not accepted. So my counterpoint is, Well, had they read the Book of Revelation? Because it was written by a Jew, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The writer of the letters to the seven churches of Asia was in his own eyes a Jew, while believing in Jesus as the risen Messiah. I have learned that the key to understanding the Book of Revelation is in the understanding of the rest of the Bible. No, I do not claim to actually understand it all, just that I am more than happy to spend the time trying to gain understanding. Concerning Israel, I turn to the second chapter of Isaiah, which begins, "The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall come to pass in the last days, [that] the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it." (vss 1,2) Another reference to Israel is symbolic, and found in Rev 12:1, "And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars" There are many different interpretations as to the identity of the woman symbolized, The Catholic Church says that it is Mary, the mother of God. I believe that verse 12:6 proves their interpretation wrong. And Mary Baker Eddy says that it is herself, which I believe is ridiculous. The interpretation of this symbol (the woman being Israel) that I accept is found in the Genesis, in Joseph's second dream. So to answer your first question, my approach to Revelation is to approach the rest of the Bible. This is explained in the Bible as the need for two or more witnesses for a matter to be called true. In answer to your second question, where I see Israel in the end time, I do not accept replacement theology, because of the everlasting covenant made in Gen 17:7, "I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you. My belief is that there will be Jews who are saved, and Jews who are unsaved. There will also be non-Jews who are saved, and non-Jews who are unsaved. Thank you for your question, Val. May our Lord bring you many joyful blessings in this new year. keliy |