Israel – Donald Karnes - 1950
(Written by Donald D. Karnes in the 1950’s while laboring in Israel; he labored in Morocco for years)
Chapter 1
We have not been here long! We feel we have everything to learn. Prospects don't look too bright. But we look to Him
for guidance. I don't expect much of anything will be done, not at least for a long time. First, there is a difficult language to
learn, as it looks like one will have to know Hebrew if one is going to deal favourably with this people. This has been a land of
many languages. Jews have returned here from many different countries bringing with them the tongue of the place from which
they came! But this is changing fast now. Only a few are returning now in comparison with the many that came in past periods.
A new generation has risen from this first influx. These have been schooled in Hebrew. They are very patriotic. They love their
land, their language, and have even helped and encouraged others to learn it. Hebrew is a "must" to have public jobs, to work in
the government. As it was in the U.S. immigrants, if of a certain age, were slow to get the language, but their children soon had
the new tongue, as well as the new ways, and wanted to forget and forsake the other.
Coming here on the boat: There were a number of young people, young couples coming to Israel. This is a nation of
youth! It isn't religion that is drawing them! Rather, a "homeland," a place where they are welcome, where they are not marked
and demeaned because of their Jewish origin. Here it is a "badge of honour." Many newcomers are sent to "kibbutzim" -communal settlements where they live together and have everything pretty much in common. My first view of this land, in the
month of August, with its grass burnt brown by the summer's drought and hot sun, with cloudless skies, made me think of
Morocco. But there, the comparison ends. Here, things are booming, bursting at the seams, building and construction seems to
be going on everywhere. One sees row after row of big, new, modern apartment houses. They have transformed this land,
making the desert blossom and bloom. They seem less religious than most European nations, except for a small minority who
are very religious, orthodox Jews who have a lot of influence, especially in the government. They don't want any missionaries! It
can almost be correctly said, they don't want any foreigners, period! So far, it is only possible to remain one year, except by
getting a student, or some other special status. We don't know what awaits us. We'll not cross any bridges until we come to them.
There is much here that speaks, that stands out, besides the thought of this being the land where our Saviour lived and
laboured, suffered and died; where He found His first disciples who practised and proved His precepts; promises and prophecies
made before in the Holy Scriptures. It makes one feel as if someone is whispering to them, "Take thy shoes from off thy feet, for
the place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Perhaps their TIME to accept Him is not ripe yet, not even in the most limited
extent? But the same Bible that foretold the whole "history of Israel" before it ever happened; their enslavement in Egypt 400
years, their captivity in Babylon 70 years, their restoration under Cyrus, also foretold the birth of the Messiah of Bethlehem, His
rejection, His crucifixion, even the destruction of Jerusalem, the world-wide dispersion of the Jewish race with the miracle of
their "regathering" in our generation. Zechariah 12:10 seems to show that His grace and supplication is to be poured out upon
them (Jews) before there will be any acceptance of Christ. And this will not happen until His return, as part of this verse is used
in Revelation 1:7 in connection with His coming back again, and it is "only then" that it mentions, "They shall look upon me (the
Lord) whom they have pierced, and shall mourn for Him, as one mourneth for his only son,...."
This is a beautiful portion of scripture! Several times we find the little expression, "In that day... there shall be a great
mourning!" "In that day... the Lord shall defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem!" It shall come to pass "in that day...!" "In that
day... there shall be a fountain open in the house of David... for sin and for uncleanness...!" One would like to know if "thus day"
will take place, more or less, all at once upon His return and only then! Or will there be some signs, some souls, an odd one,
accepting Him before the final fulfilment? It all makes me think of a sentence written below a certain sun dial, "It is later than
you think!"
Chapter 2
Luke 12:41. Peter asked, "Lord, speakest Thou this parable unto us, or even unto all?" It is quite clear here, that two
groups are in question! The answer Jesus gave made it obvious that the Apostles were the one group that the Lord would make
"ruler" over His household. This has no doubt a present and practical application, yet, does not deduct from it the future meaning
and fulfilment beyond this present scene. This fits in nicely with what Jesus said to them on another occasion. "Ye are they that
have continued with me in my temptations, and I appoint unto you a kingdom... ye shall sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes
of Israel." Likewise, verse 36 of this same chapter has perhaps another thought, other than the present, helpful one. "Like unto
men that wait for their Lord, when He will return from the wedding." Here too, one group, the disciples, the other, His
countrymen, the Jews.
There are two hopes in this world. The Messianic Hope, this is the hope of the Jews, and the Blessed Hope, this is the
hope of the church. The two are running parallel. Both are looking for the same Man. The long centuries that have passed have
not erased these hopes, rather, sharpened their prospectives. Every prophet in the O.T. preached the coming of the Messiah.
Every preacher in the N.T. preached the Lord's return. It is a major miracle that those two hopes, even after long years of
waiting, are even brighter today than ever. The Jews have passed perilous times, clutched to their hope. Christians have held fast
their confidence in His word, facing scoffers who asked, "Where is the promise of His coming?"
Jesus said this generation would not pass away until all be fulfilled. "This generation" does not mean here a span of life,
rather, "this race," the Jewish race, this Jewish people would not pass away until all is fulfilled. Israel has outlived its tormentors
and destroyers. From Pharaohs, fears and fads trying to extinguish them. Again in Esther's day they faced extermination. Even in
our day, Hitler's devilish schemes of liquidation did not totally suppress them. Israel moves inevitably toward its final destiny.
The Church has survived persecutions and apostasies, materialism and modernism. It has an appointment with the
Bridegroom. The powers of darkness have turned their rage and wrath against these two hopes. The "one thing" upon which the
Arabic nations agree: "Destroy Israel!" They demand the liquidation of this new nation, formed against their will and wishes.
The powers of darkness are no less sworn to destroy, defeat or distort, if it were possible, the fulfilment of this Blessed Hope.
These two hopes are entwined. One can't be fulfilled without the other. Evil powers are exerting their strength to thwart, to
squash the accomplishment of these two hopes. There can be no truce! This is the set up, perhaps the end draws near. As these
terrible times approach, God has given us something to see, to boost and bolster our faith. Look! just as Israel's hope is being
realized so will not likewise the Blessed Hope?
Two outstanding events mark this 20th century. Two rebirths --- 1st: The rebirth of the Truth. God pouring out His
Spirit upon all flesh. The resurgence of His Work in the world. Eliezer (His servants) commissioned to seek a Bride. The Gospel
call, "Prepare to meet the Bridegroom!" Make ready for the marriage! 2nd event: The rebirth of the Jewish nation out of the ruin
heaps of Europe. Those two events are going on at the same time. The exiles of Israel are returning on an average of three
hundred a day, a hundred thousand a year. They outstrip by far the spiritual rebirth. A nation is born! Israel has been reestablished even when it seemed impossible. Just as God has kept His promise to the Jews, in the assembling of the outcasts of
Israel, gathering the dispersed of Judah from every country and clime, so likewise God is gathering out "A people for His Name"
from every sect and denomination, a little flock to whom He will give the Kingdom. These are the facts before us, undeniable
truths out in the open.
"Let us be glad and rejoice because the marriage of the Lamb has come." To be at this wedding is the Christian Hope.
The Jews will wait for their Lord when He will return from the wedding. This is the celebration of the ages. The Gospel points to
this Man and to this Marriage! Are we ready? Will we be there? What are we doing with the invitation? "Grieve not the holy
Spirit of God whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." It is being led by this Spirit that assures us a "reservation" at
this Wedding Feast.
Chapter 3
"That the purpose of God according to election might stand."
We can learn much from Israel. From their example when they were obedient. From their mistakes when they were
wrong. They were a chosen people, a chosen generation. They rejoiced in the consciousness that they were the vessels of Divine
Grace! They were loved of God, a favoured folk. It's still God's way of working -- though today it is not limited to one race or
people. Yet it is important to one's spiritual welfare, the feeling of being loved beyond explanation. Of such, heroes are born!
Martyrs are made! God has a definite purpose in His election. There is no act of God in time or eternity which is not the
offspring of right and definite reason. His grace is not arbitrary. He is absolute Reason. He must be Right. He is absolute Truth.
He must be honest. It is impossible for God to lie. Not one flower is growing by chance in the desert. Not one fowl is fledged by
accident.
Grace has a special effect. Israel was chosen for a special mission, chosen to show forth divine revelation, to form a
central figure of divine favour. Romans 9:4 "Israelites, to whom pertaineth the adoption, the glory, the covenant, the law, the
service of God, the promises, the patriarchs, of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all." Many ask, "Why the
Jews?" The righteousness of God and the love of God are manifest in this choice. By this election, by this focus of divine fire in
the midst of nations, God created a flame that has never been totally quenched. By concentration of His spiritual Power and
Presence, God kept His revealed Truth from being dissipated among the nations. He made and sustained a sacred centre from
which His Law and Light was being shed abroad. It was far-reaching. The Queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon
concerning the Name of the Lord. She came to see! When Israel was in form, God's Name and Glory, Wisdom and Power
affected the whole world round about them. Kings and Emperors brought gifts, came to bow to this nation and to partake of their
blessing.
This focusing of God's Grace is always for a larger extension. What God does in a person or people is meant to affect
others. Israel made a mistake, began to interpret God's grace to mean God's rejection of all other nations. They developed a
self-righteousness, a "holier-than-thou" attitude. They ceased to be interested in others. They wanted it all for themselves. Such
an attitude only makes "walled sepulchres." God's grace is never exclusive. It is inclusive. In black Africa there are French clubs,
Swiss clubs, etc. One has to be of that nationality to enter the club. All others are excluded. God is not like that. His grace is not
for self consumption. It is not to be wasted, rather, invested. It makes for compassion and concern. It seeketh not its own. It cares
for men's souls.
There is a parallel in the N.T. Jesus' choice of His twelve disciples. They were greatly favoured. His time and teaching
were concentrated on this group. His efforts and energy surged around these favoured few. His blessings were bestowed
constantly on them. They perhaps did not feel so favoured. They shared in His reproach. They suffered His rejection. There is a
spiritual fulfilment. Jesus called these humble men from among so many. He created a centre of spiritual life, light and love from
which the whole world was blessed. They were commanded to go forth to make disciples of all nations. They compassed land
and sea. They communicated God's plan and purpose. God's reach through them went to the ends of the earth. Never have so
few done so much for so many! Jesus infected this small group. They in turn carried this infection to vast areas of the world. In
themselves they were unworthy. It was what He made them. He took this handful of disciples and made them the greatest team
on record, the closest and sweetest fellowship. What He created was alive, not a cumbersome sect, not a complex organization.
There were no buildings, no schools, no courses nor collections for preachers, no salaries nor offerings paid publicly. There was
something more than religious machinery. They were conscious of God's election, that His grace had been bestowed upon them,
that they were "called and chosen." John 15-16. In this world they had no status or standing, no place nor prestige, no honour nor
fame. They were not even citizens of the Roman Empire. Most of them were fishermen of Galilee, a province in the backyard of
Judea. The record is implicit. Jesus chose not the rich lest they say, "He redeemed by riches." He chose not the wise lest they
say, "He won by wisdom." He chose not the famous lest they say, "He drew disciples by celebrity." His work is still the same
today. His grace flows ever outward. His grace is a divine current that catches hold of those that heed. It is an electrifying force
that quickens those that yield. It's voltage is unlimited. He saves to the uttermost. God's impact is meant to bring about
obedience. He doesn't force or impose. The final commitment is always ours. What we do with His grace can be another story.
We must give the answer. Let us not receive the grace of God in vain.
Chapter 4
We have some interesting conversations with several here. They are an interesting people. Their history is so variant and
rich in experiences as its roots go way back. They have come from afar along a rough, rugged road. They have passed by many
nations and different races, gathering from each. Countries and clime, experiences and time have left their mark upon them. Still
they remain a separated and distinct people. Why have they been so preserved? Is it a monument of divine vengeance? Is it first
for a testimony of God's work in bygone ages? Is it for an antitype of Christians? That is, few in numbers, different and despised.
Romans 11. "Hath God cast away His people? God forbid." Verse 11. "Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid." Is
Paul's answer. Did their failure mean complete downfall? Far from it! Now if their fall be the riches of the world, and their
diminishing the riches of the Gentiles, how much more their fullness? These scriptures raise hopes in our hearts that mercy and
blessing are still in store for them.
They are the most remarkable and enduring race ever to appear in the world. We owe so much to them. They have been
the instrument of Christian revelation. Their laws and commandments have influenced the whole western civilization. These
precepts and principles if separated from the supernatural would be a most precious possession, would match the combined
efforts of all other wisdoms and learnings. No other race has set such a mark upon this world. No other nation has shown such a
capacity of survival, in spite of unending peril and persecutions, sufferings and oppressions.
Asking some here; "Why did you come back?" It is interesting to hear their answers. Some have come, it is true, seeking
better prospects. Many have fled persecution. This would hardly be the major nor the foremost reason. Many have come,
making sacrifices, leaving good jobs, homes and pleasant prospects. They abandoned fair and favourable settings to return and
pick up the past in their ancestral homeland. In all this, there is evidence that something deeper than natural benefits or outward
circumstances was moving them. Something tugging away inside. It is somewhat akin to our own salvation. It is similar to the
salmon instinct, that after spending years at sea, comes back to their own native tributary where they originated. What brings
them back so precisely? If one takes and transfers a salmon to another tributary, he will know at once he is off course. He will
start downstream, and fight his way back to the original river, travelling up the very side of this river into which flows the
tributary where he was spawned, until he finishes his destiny in the precise spot where he was spawned so long ago.
We cannot choose our experiences but we can choose the effect these experiences will have upon us. We have known
some who, passing through hardships were humbled and helped. While others, passing through much the same hardships were
hindered and hardened. The collision of hard knocks of life with the hard facts of the Bible should detonate light and preparation
for God's work in our lives. Yet the Jews remain pretty much the same today in their attitude towards Christ and the Gospel as
they were in the long, long ago.
Israel's geographic position is unique in the world. It is the bridge between Africa and Asia. It flanks the land roads of
Europe to the east, the crossroads of three continents. God no doubt had a purpose in choosing such a spot for the "Promised
Land," locating it in such a vantage point of influence in the tides of history. Israel has been a magic revival of a nation which
has seen so many empires crumble to dust, which has persisted through so many trials and humiliations and not only survived
but renewed its former vigour, vitality and creativeness, in its previous site and situation. As the natural fulfilment has
materialized so we ponder when the spiritual fulfilment will come.
They show great respect for their holy writings, scrolls and sacred books. They venerate them, they take them out of
their cases, dust them, caress them and kiss them. Such consideration is not to be looked upon lightly. Yet one would like to see
more concern for the message contained in them, and more application of their contents. The record of God's word is not to
become a museum to promote stagnation, not to be made a shrine or monument. His truths are like an "arena" to act, prove and
practice. It is so easy for any of us to lose this firstness and freshness, and become "run down," deprived of reality. And like
most religious sects a deadness of mere routine and ritual settles over them. They become embalmed in a spirit of complacency.
Their "remains" are all wrapped up like a mummy in their glorious past. True religion resembles yoghurt. One must keep the
original microbes so as to preserve the original flavour and quality. As only the authentic product can be had by these bacteria
working, so likewise, it is only the continual operation of the Spirit of God that His work is produced and maintained. Salvation
cannot be wrought otherwise.
Chapter 5
The Old Testament is bound together by the "thread of the Covenant." An agreement between God and His people. The
Lord "alone" would be their God, and they "alone" would be His people, ll the people of the earth." They would be His special
possession, a particular people unto Himself, though an insignificant people among all the nations of the ancient world. They
were not pets, but "servers of His purpose," obedient to His will, keepers of His covenant.
Israel was exalted over all the nations of the whole world. Israel is the only nation in the world which employs the Old
Testament as its history text book. It does so with rightful pride. Seers and singers have proclaimed the epochal accounts of this
great and extraordinary people, before they were written down to become chapters of the books of the Bible. Their trials and
triumphs in Egypt, their liberator and teacher, Moses, and their establishment as a powerful Empire under David and Solomon.
Over three thousand years ago there was a nation called "Israel," a kingdom at the height of its glory and pinnacle of success. A
Divine Service functioned -- there were priests and prophets, princes and poets. The Psalms we have today were their Song
Book. Hymns, already written to music, played on harps, psalteries and other instruments. This remarkable nation was called
"Israel." Its language was Hebrew, its situation was Palestine and its religion was the O.T. Now this is true again today -- it has
the same name, same language, same location and same religion. No wonder the Jews are still proud to be called "Jews." What
other nation comes anywhere near such continuity? 200 years ago U.S.A. was not yet a nation. 2000 years ago London was a
swamp. 3000 years ago, even Rome that ruled the western world for a millennia, was just emerging out of barbaric backgrounds.
And Italy today has little left of its former dominion and glorious past.
Jerusalem was exalted over every other city. There was none like her. Standing at the pinnacle of privilege and power,
the capital of this notable nation -- a "City set on a Hill." Many of the psalms extol Jerusalem: "Beautiful for situation, the joy of
the whole earth. The perfection of beauty. The city of the great King. Walk about Zion, tell her towers, mark her bulwarks. The
kings of the nations pass, shake their heads, and hasten away." Too strong to be taken, much to be envied. "When God passeth in
review of the nations, when He writeth up His people, of Zion it shall be said, 'this and that man was born in her.' Glorious
things are spoken of thee, O City of God." Even this was said of Jerusalem, "All my springs arise in thee."
The temple was exalted above every building in this wide world. Even its situation on Mt. Moriah made it famous.
There, Abram went a three-day journey to offer up Isaac, his son, in sacrifice -- prefiguring God offering up His Son, and the
days in the tomb. The plague that ravaged the country was stayed on Mt. Moriah by David, paying the full price, and offering up
the oxen, instruments and grains of Ornan's threshing floor. The construction of the temple was unique. There was no sound of a
hammer or any instrument of iron heard. The stones were hewn in the quarry, fitted to a foreordained plan, before they were ever
brought up to be erected. What a spiritual lesson! A type of how "living stones" will find a place in the Temple of God which is
of men. The marvellous edifice was built out of white marble. It glistened in the sun, could be seen for miles. It was a
commanding sight. It was incomparable. It drew every eye. It touched every heart. It stood so majestically on this vantage point
of Jerusalem. A symbol of God's favour and evidence of His glory.
The sanctuary was exalted over every other spot in the world. It was divided into two parts -- even the names describe it
without further explanations, Holy Place, and the Holiest of Holies. Costly stones, hewn stones, consecrated stones, sanctified
stones were used to house this sacred spot where God was to put His Presence. Just as gold is exalted over all other metals -- all
things inside this place were of pure gold, or covered with gold. The place of perpetual incense -- "where I shall meet with thee."
"Thy silver is become dross, thy wine mixed with water." "Gone away backwards" -- is what happened to this favoured
folk, this famous city, the majestic Temple and Sanctuary! Luke 21:22. "For these are days of vengeance that all things which
are written must be fulfilled." Ezekiel 5 tells of one third perishing with famine and pestilence, one third by sword, and one third
were scattered to the four winds. Jesus visited the Temple for the last time. "Your House is left desolate... not one stone shall be
left one upon another." Of the Sanctuary we read, "The precious stones of Zion being poured out on the top of every street."
Shattered and scattered, trampled under uncaring feet. All became pillage and plunder of heathen people, rubbish of an
abandoned battlefield. "How is the gold become dim!" It happened to them. It can happen again -- we are far from being as
important or famous as Israel. Let this be a warning to us! "Let us not be highminded, but fear!"
Chapter 6
The Jews were mistaken about their own importance. They counted on their past greatness and accomplishments. They
had a feeling, "We are it, and none other." They were resting on their laurels, "We have it made." That exalted feeling that goes
before a fall. The collapse of Israel was due not so much to the military might of their conquerors. Israel had become soft, a
flabbiness of spiritual fibre! Their religious dogma and doctrine prevented them from hearing what God was saying. They
looked to Moses and Abraham yet were blind to the truth these great men of God practised and preached. They failed to see
beyond the forms and shadows, the real Presence of God. They broke His contract. They acted as if they had made a deal with
God, insisting on their rights, whims and fancies. They had the formalities, they mouthed the phrases. They had the motions but
not the music. They had a high degree of culture, they prayed, they tithed, they fasted, they evangelized. They favoured reforms,
yet inside they were not changed. They were wolves in sheep's clothing. Lust, greed and self reigned supreme. Their religion had
hardened them. Jesus was unwelcome. They were only actors, talking about things they did not mean. Wrong motives -- doing
much to satisfy and soothe their conscience. Window dressing -- for a badge of respectability, passing off as religiously
acceptable, Romans 10:3, "going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the
righteousness of God." "All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags." They trusted in their own righteousness and supposed graces,
trying to be their own saviour pleading their own goodness. Thus repudiating His priesthood and offerings and example.
The Jews were mistaken about the law. They gloried in that they kept the law. By trusting in it and observing it they
thought they would be acceptable. They misunderstood its purpose! It was written on tables of stone, in sacred writings. God
never intended that the law would save anyone. It was to bring a knowledge of sin and a need of a Saviour. "He that doeth these
things (of the law) shall live by them." In Christ we "live by faith." The law they gloried in says, "Cursed is he that observeth not
all things that are written in the law to do them." It was complicated, just one slip, one tumble or one error and you are out!
"Live by them." By observing all these commandments; that is, by a perfect record, a perfect performance. One omission or
mistake and it's fatal. Peter said, "The law was a yoke that neither we nor our fathers were able to bear." Jesus came to redeem us
from the curse of the law. The Jews, instead of welcoming such relief, made their boast in the law. It was only a "schoolmaster"
to bring us to Christ. We should not mix them as the Galatians did. Paul made it plain. "If it is by the works of the law, then it is
no more by grace." Romans 3:20 "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall be no flesh justified in His sight... But now the
righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets." The righteousness of God, is
God's way of righting wrongs, by faith in Jesus Christ. We are no longer under the law but we need to come up to its standard.
Romans 2:14 "For when the Gentiles (Christians) which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law... shew
the work of the law written in their hearts..." We see here something superior to the law produced by divine nature. Superior
because it is wrought in their hearts. The whole law is fulfilled in one word, "LOVE." No wonder Jesus said, "If you love me,
keep my commandments." He did not say, "If you want to get to heaven, keep my commandments," or, "If you want to be
saved, keep my commandments." Either statement might be just as true, but He did not say it. God's way is based on LOVE -"Faith which worketh by love." Also, by love, "shall all men know...."
The Jews were mistaken about temporal blessings. They were promised natural blessings. But, like the man Jesus spoke
of in Luke 12 who pulled down his barns and built bigger, he made three mistakes. First, he mistook temporal blessings for
spiritual. Second, he mistook time for eternity. Third, he mistook his soul for his stomach. Temporal blessings are from God.
Many make the same mistake as the Jews, feel so blessed by God, "I have such a good family, good job, good neighbours, good
health, etc. I am so highly favoured and blessed of God." True! But these are only temporal blessings. Such do not open the
gates of Heaven, don't write out names in the Book of Life. Temporal blessings are for all people. Matt. 5:45 "He maketh His
sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust." An atheist could have all these temporal
blessings, and not believe in God at all. Eph. 1:3 speaks of spiritual blessings in Christ, not temporal. First, "Chosen us in Him."
How well this fits Ps. 65:4, "Blessed is the man that God chooseth and causeth to approach unto Him and dwell in His courts...."
"Many are called but few are chosen." Jesus came to call (choose) not the righteous but the sinner unto repentance. Luke 18. The
publican who prayed was not telling the Lord how good he was. God knew what he was. He didn't pull any punches or
masquerade. He stood as a sinner and asked for mercy. He had the qualities necessary to do business with God, humble and
honest towards God as he knew how to be. The second blessing in Eph. 1, "In love, having predestinated us unto the adoption of
children by Jesus Christ according to the good pleasure of His will."
Chapter 7
Some ask, "What is Israel's mission in the world today?" In spite of historical upheavals and continual persecutions, the
Jews persist. Larger nations have disappeared. God is preserving and protecting them. We have before us a "witness" whose
beginning dates back to the time of the patriarchs and promises. This unfolding and confirmation of the scriptures today is a
mighty monument of God's faithfulness in spite of their unfaithfulness! A meaningful message -- God's handwriting on the walls
of history! A testimony of the veracity of Christ! Yet Israel is a negative testimony! They rejected Him and continue to do so.
Let us proceed with care and caution midst warnings and lessons left us.
The "blindness of Israel" causes many to wonder! The apostle Paul moved by the Spirit deals with this subject and gives
the answer of God in Romans 9, 10 and 11. Their "blindness" has a time limit, as he says, "until the time of the Gentiles be come
in." It is not total blindness, rather, "blindness in part." As many Jews are well versed in the letter of the word and no blinder
than most so-called Christians. Even some, though very few, have been helped. This foretold "blindness" reached its depths
when they crucified their Christ. "Faith cometh by hearing." It's everyone's personal responsibility. Israel hath not obtained but
the election have and the rest were "blinded" (hardened). This lump, that is the Jewish nation, was a stumbling block to faith.
God caused them to offend and fall. Their fall enriched the world.
In the past, the Divine Potter has made from this "clay" many treasured vessels, such as Abram and Isaac, Jacob and
Joseph, Moses and Aaron, Samuel and David, and others. Many from this "lump" being at times unwilling and unpliable, have
not been appropriate for "vessels of honour." Of such the Potter could only make inferior vessels, such as, Esau, Saul, Absalom,
Adonijah, Ahab, Uzziah and others who as "vessels of dishonour" stand out as warnings to us. Some, because of resisting, were
hardened, whom God endured with much longsuffering. They became "vessels of wrath" used much as God did Pharaoh, "that I
might show forth my power in thee and declare My Name throughout all the earth." It is not God who is changed. He still shows
mercy today, has compassion as He did in the past. It is the clay that has changed. God's hands are still "stretched forth unto a
disobedient and gainsaying people." Such "clay" limits the Potter to making only vessels of base or common use.
What change! They, who were "first" became "last." They, who were the "builders" rejected the "Stone" which became
"Head of the corner." They, who were the choicest vine, ended up with only "wild grapes." They lost their vineyard... let out to
others "who shall render to the Lord the fruits thereof." "They shall come from the east and west, the north and south and sit
down with Abram, Isaac, Jacob and the prophets in the Kingdom, and ye yourselves shall be cast out." This fulfils Romans 9:25,
"I'll call them my people, My beloved who are not my people." Jesus said, "If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy
day, the things that belonged unto thy peace! But now they are hid from thine eyes." Jesus blamed them for this "blindness"
because "thou knowest not the time of thy visitation." Also, "How oft would I have gathered thee together as a hen doeth her
brood, but ye would not."
Paul's prayer for them, "that they might be saved." He foresaw the time when this "blindness" would be taken away. If
their casting away meant the reconciliation of the world: what would their acceptance mean? Nothing less than life from the
dead. If their reprobation meant salvation to the Gentiles, what will their re-integration be? It will be the coronation of God's
plan. This will not happen until "the time of the Gentiles be fulfilled." "Until" is a little word with a big meaning. Some definite
change coming! Jesus said, "Ye shall not see me henceforth till ye shall say, (even the Jews who don't believe now) 'Blessed is
He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.'" However, some things precede these words of Jesus. "Behold, your house is left
desolate." He mentioned it being destroyed, their tribulation and dispersal. Matt. 24:21-22 likely has a double fulfilment.
First true during those terrible times when Jerusalem was destroyed after the crucifixion. They would not give up. They
fought on to the bitter end -- hoping God would come and save them. He did not. Luke 11:50 had yet to be fulfilled. Zechariah
12:8-10; 14:1-10, "Age-ending" events of prophecy will come to pass. The devil's trinity will be running things; the Antichrist,
the Beast and the False Prophet. "He causeth that as many as would not worship the Image of the Beast should be killed." The
devil is gathering all nations against Jerusalem (for the kill) because the Jews refuse to bow to this Antichrist, the one who has
hunted and hounded, pursued and persecuted them all down through the ages. During the painful period: doubly true, "a great
tribulation such as was not since the beginning..." Israel will be disciplined and chastised, "When the Lord shall have washed
away the filth... purged away the blood of Jerusalem by a spirit of burning." Also, "pouring out a spirit of grace and
supplication." Then the Lord shall return (from the wedding) in great glory, with all His saints and mighty angels. "Then shall
the Lord go forth to fight against these nations." (in flaming fire take vengeance). He shall come, to the remnant of Israel, who
have survived the purging and perfecting, as their great Deliverer, and "rejected but longed-for" Messiah. Then our God shall
share with them the mercy He has shown to us. His choice stands. His gifts and calling are irrevocable. Oh the wealth of His
wisdom, the depths of His knowledge, "how unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out."
Chapter 8
"Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God." We are thankful for God's goodness toward us. His goodness
should lead to repentance, supply the inward urge to do right. Where His goodness ends, His judgment begins. We see His
goodness even in His rightful wrath. It fulfils Habakkuk prayer, "Revive Thy work in the midst of years; O Lord, in wrath
remember mercy." In all God's dealings we see this imprint of goodness.
God spared not the angels that sinned but... to be reserved unto judgment. God spared not the old world but saved Noah
the eighth person. God spared not Sodom and Gomorrah yet ... delivered just Lot. "God spared not the natural branches." It's in
God's dealing with Israel that we see the greatest contrast of His goodness and severity. In spite of much severity as to those
whom God has given much, He requires much -- the door of His mercy is open. "And they also (the Jews) if they abide not still
in unbelief, shall be grafted in." It's up to them. It's their move! It is God's goodness that "through their fall" salvation is come
unto us (Gentiles).
In their rejection, His goodness is still evident, because most that has given this earth true dignity and spirituality, has
stamped upon it, "Made in Palestine." The Bible is a Jewish book -- that is, God used Jewish instruments to write it, actual
accounts of their experience with God. The prophets were Jews, Mary was a Jewish maiden, a virgin of whom Jesus was born in
Palestine. The first Apostles were Jewish. Calvary is on Jewish soil. The Gospel was sent to the Jews first. The Apostles were
first sent to preach to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. The first churches were Jewish, Jesus said, "Salvation is of the Jews."
The enigma of the western world! "This" was not founded in Paris, in Moscow, in London nor even in Rome. Not a doctrine out
of the desert, not an ideology of Moscow, not a philosophy of the new world, not a fashion out of Hollywood, but a "Life" out of
Israel; that Babe of Bethlehem, that Boy of Nazareth, that Man of Galilee. Even after the resurrection Jesus said, "Repentance
and remission of sins" should be preached in His name "among all nations, beginning in Jerusalem."
Romans 15:8-9, "Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision (Jews) for the Truth of God, to confirm the promises
made unto the fathers; and that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy, as it is written..." This shows that the Jews should
serve God because of His faithfulness. God kept His word, fulfilled His promises made to them. This is a two-edged sword. God
carried out His word even when it meant chastisement and punishment, even dispersion because of their disobedience, God
spared not the natural branches. And Paul warns, "Take heed lest He also spare not thee." (Gentile) Goodness shall be our part
and portion only as we continue in His goodness, otherwise we also shall be cut off (severity). What does it mean to "continue in
His goodness?" It is explained in the verse just quoted, "That the Gentiles should serve God because of His mercies." (goodness)
John 12:26, "If any man will serve me, let him follow me..."
These promises were not made to us (Gentiles). It was God in His mercy that opened the door to us. We, a wild olive
branch, have been grafted into the true olive tree which was planted in a foreign and far away land (to us), cared for and
cultivated by other hands, preserved by other efforts and sacrifices. "This" has stood through the storms of the centuries. We
have nothing to boast about. Our position is that of indebtedness, because we have obtained mercy. Though some branches were
broken off the original root and trunk remain. "What have ye that ye have not received?" We are indebted to the Jews because of
God's love to them, even "from whom Christ came, concerning the flesh, who is over all, blessed forever..." We are debtors to
many others, especially those who first left all, homes and countries and brought us the Gospel. We owe much to their faith and
courage, sacrifice and endurance. We reap where we have bestowed no labour. What are we doing about it? Paul reveals to us
the only way we can continue in His goodness, being moved by His mercy to "offer up our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and
acceptable unto God..." Thus this "reasonable service" is the fruit of our gratitude, we glorify God for His mercy towards us
(Gentiles).
Coming events cast their shadows. Much is yet to be fulfilled, especially concerning the Jews. Our lot and destiny are
somewhat entwined in theirs. Zechariah 13:1, "In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the
inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and uncleanness." A fountain open and accessible, not sealed and forbidden. Many streams but
only one source of supply. "If anyone thirst (Jew or Gentile) Come!" It is opened especially for sin and uncleanness. God
established credits at Calvary that cover faith-claims of the past, present and even the future. God carried all the I.O.U.'s of the
O.T. and honoured them at Calvary. Zechariah certifies it, positions it, "House of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem." Now
there is no one nation that can be called the "people of God," rather the "Israel of God" is called out of different nations.
"Whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely."
Chapter 9
Petra (Sela) the capital of Edom, lies about halfway between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea. A visit to this rare
phenomenon of nature has helped to bring the place and prophecy into focus. It is a mountain redoubt, a great natural fortress,
standing high in vertical walls, a chain of circular, perpendicular cliffs. There is only one entrance to this mighty stronghold, a
gorge that was an old riverbed, winds its way through the sentinels of steep canyons. The Edomites felt secure in their natural
refuge, felt that nobody could reach them there. In the political and power plays they put their chips in big numbers. They lent
support and shared the booty of the combined enemy forces. II Chron. 21:16.
Obadiah is the shortest book in the Bible. His message concerns Edom, (Esau). Obadiah, like Jude of the N.T., put all he
had to say on one single sheet. Both men came right to the point. How does this book apply to us? What has God to say to us
from this brief letter? Esau is the forerunner of those who "fail of the grace of God." Unfaithful and disloyal to God who had so
richly favoured him -- highly privileged, the very best within his reach. Yet he sold out for a "mess of pottage." He cried, "Feed
me!" Just grabbing for the now and immediate -- no foresight, no tomorrow! He was a grief to his parents. He could not be
troubled to return to his father's house to get a wife. He took wives of the daughters of the land. He was unworthy to inherit the
promises made to the fathers. Costly promises that Abram had purchased by precious faith which brought sacrifices and
suffering, separation and denial into his life. Esau bartered the whole business for a bowl of porridge. In the long ago, Edom
refused passage to Moses. Now, instead of siding with Israel, being his brother's keeper, vs. 4, "Exalted to the stars." Their
sympathies were with the enemy. They were due to be brought down to the dust.
Obadiah goes right to the root of the wrong. Vs. 11, "In the day... foreigners entered into his gates, cast lots for
Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them." Even as heathen hordes pounded at the gates of Jerusalem, destroying Israel, Edom
was "as one of them." They didn't actually throw the stone or plunge the sword, yet they were accomplices, implicated. They
gave aid and comfort to the enemy. God never forgot where their sympathies lay. Instead of lending a helping hand, they stood
on the other side and looked idly on in the evil day. They hindered. Their heart was with the heathen.
Obadiah points out, a reckoning is due -- "doom's day" for the heathen, also for those who make their own rules, shall be
paid in their own coin. Vs. 15, "As thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee; thy reward shall return upon thine own head."
There is no compromise for those who refuse to stand up and be counted. Neutral we cannot be! "He that is not with me is
against me." God has a definite purpose, individuals and nations become contributors or opponents to that purpose. What is our
attitude? We must put our choice on the line. All hidden manoeuvring will come to light. Popular opinion is never right. Worldly
wisdom cannot pick the winner. Vs. 8, we see what happened to the "wise of Edom." The right side is God's side. Whoever
thought the stripling David would down the mighty giant? Whoever thought Jesus would rise from the dead? Whoever thought
little Israel, single handed, would defeat the combined forces of so many foes?
Obadiah gives the final score! Each because of their "stand" when the destiny of Jerusalem was at stake. The Philistine
forces were riding the crest of the wave! Winning! Israel was chastised! Jerusalem fell! Palestine picked to pieces! Edom felt
secure in protected Petra, lying low like a hyena to pilfer her part of the prey when wounded Israel fell, "Laid hands on their
substance" -- pillaging the plunder. Five years later Edom fell before the very ally she had helped. Vs. 10, Edom never rose
again. But Israel did. Vs. 17, "But upon Mt. Zion shall be deliverance and there shall be holiness." This is the promise already
mostly fulfilled.
Now Jerusalem is making news again -- in the spotlight. God has a timetable for that city. It is the only one in the world
after which a heavenly city is named. All the New Londons, New Yorks, New Orleans etc. are on this side. This ╕one╕ city,
"Jerusalem" has a counterpart in the world of glory, the "New Jerusalem." Far-reaching events of time and eternity are centred in
this city. Christ and this city are inseparable. As Jesus was despised in her streets, so shall He be glorified there. All the debates
and battles about who shall possess her? God will have the ultimate say. Here is God's word, the schedule of history, "And the
House of David shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations, and Jerusalem shall be trodden
down of the Gentiles until..." God says, "UNTIL." Christ must return to that city, physically and literally. Whenever that time
comes, Jerusalem shall be in the hands of those God named centuries ago. The world-systems of religion will never want it that
way. They want the city for a showcase of their particular brands of religions, displaying their different makes and models,
cathedrals, temples, shrines, missions, schools, etc. They will never be able to postpone God's destined purpose. In spite of
nations that refused to acknowledge Israel's existence and who have vowed her extinction, Obadiah says, verse 17, "The House
of David shall (re)possess their possessions." Where are our sympathies? Anyone adding to the misery of those who have so
severely suffered, will not go unpunished. We can help correct the record; Edom forfeited her chance forever. What is our heart's
desire and prayer to God? "Come quickly, Lord Jesus!"
Chapter 10
Daniel depicts the "times of the Gentiles." He shows how great Gentile empires were to arise one after another to
dominate the world. The "times" in question began under Nebuchadnezzar in the year of the Jewish captivity, Daniel himself
being one of the first captives. This Gentile era will continue until what is called the "time of the end." Most of his prophecies
have already become history. God's plan of Gentile supremacy is seen first in the figure of the great image, a full-length
depiction of mighty empires from the golden head (Nebuchadnezzars) to the iron/clay feet -- days of the last kingdom depicted
by the ten toes. The whole colossus of Gentile power is to be broken in pieces by a blow from a "Stone" cut out of the mountain
without hands, signifying the coming of God's Kingdom. Nothing competes or compares to this breath-taking panorama, tracing
the rise, development, crumbling and fall of many of earth's greatest powers. Daniel places on stage, personalities that God
permitted to exercise authority; such stars as Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Darius, Cyrus etc. Nebuchadnezzar as this head of
gold, because experiences humbled him to see "God doeth according to His will... and none can stay His hand." Daniel shows
that God's efforts are focused to bring rulers to this place of repentance. He made clear that those set in high places, entrusted
with responsibility are answerable to God -- must give an account of their deeds.
Daniel as Secretary of State for two of the greatest empires, Babylonian and Medo-Persian, offered counsel unequalled
to any nation's records; such an infusion of godliness and miracles, involving his own life and testimony; revealing
Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the great image, interpreting the handwriting that spelled Belshazzar's doom, "weighed in the
balance and found wanting." Under Darius, deliverance from the lion's pit. Yet, in spite of such superior guidance, these empires
failed. In fact, Daniel writes "failure" over every effort of men to govern himself. Not indicted for not trying, but indicted for not
accomplishing, thus proving that Man cannot lift himself of himself through himself.
I used to wish there were another chapter to his book! Did he see more? But I do not think that way now. Daniel has
already revealed more than we are apt to believe, so why add more? This last chapter is like the last verse of Matt. 23. Jesus
poured out judgment and woes upon the Jews of His day, yet pleads, "How oft I would have gathered thee as a hen doth her
chicks... but ye would not!" "Behold your house is left unto you desolate." Such a tragic picture; but the last verse changes all
that -- giving us a glimpse of another Israel. The enemy does not have the last word. Jesus, at His coming, will find many who
will say, "Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord!" (Jesus). Daniel confirms this truth. It is an answer to his prayer,
10:14, "what shall befall thy people in the latter days?" When the Ancient of Days intervenes, the resurrection morn and the Son
of Man coming in glory with all His saints. The Beast is slain -- the hour of Israel's deliverance!
This last chapter tells us what this "end time" will be like. Daniel sees the storm gathering, the abscess forming, distress
snowballs! Though benefited by scientific breakthrough, vs. 4, more knowledge than ever before, results are more dismal than
previous attempts. 12:1, "And at this time." What time? It is the time that Michael stands up. Daniel adds another character to his
cast, a great Prince. The question of this hour, who will stand up for Israel? All have abandoned Daniel's people. "Stand up"
means action, deliverance! Previously Michael is mentioned, also Jude 9, contending with the devil for the body of Moses. He
will contend again with the devil -- this time for the Jews! It will be a time of trouble and perplexity." It will be limited
deliverance, "Every one that shall be found written in the Book." Israel, as a testimony for God shall experience a supernatural
deliverance. The finger of God will write for all to see, "KNOW THAT I AM THE LORD JESUS." This "time of trouble" will
be beneficial, a catalyst, "Many shall be purified, made white and tried." Israel shall be sifted. Zechariah 14, gives a "close up"
of this time, "a remnant shall not be cut off -- but purified as silver is purified." Vs 7 reads in French, "All this shall be fulfilled
when the force of thy people (Jews) shall be completely broken." As long as Israel trusts in the arm of flesh, weapons of war,
God cannot help them. That day is soon coming to a close! The Arabs with their new found oil riches and great numerical
superiority and progress are closing the gap! Zechariah 14:2, "All nations gathered against them." Daniel gives the profile of
man's final fling of power, "the time of the end." The "one week" of the 70 remains to be fulfilled when Jerusalem will take her
final "cup of fury." Vs. 11, also 9:27, "And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week and in the midst of the week
he shall cause the sacrifice and oblation to cease, for the overspreading of the abominations." In the midst of this last week,
(likely 3 1/2 years??) being marked by treachery, the Antichrist comes on stage, making fantastic claims, but his days are
numbered, 1,290, (3 1/2 years). He seduces Israel with a contract, "confirm the covenant with many for one week and in the
midst of the week." Treachery is always the same for those who seek acceptance and approval of the world -- pursuing such a
course always leads to a "time of trouble," whether it be individual, congregational or national. Jesus is set for the fall and rising
again of many in Israel; no escape to God's word. It pays to rest the future in His hands. Daniel's last words prove this, "for thou
shalt rest and stand in thy lot at the end of days." Daniel survived trouble and tragedy, and so will his people -- the Jews!
Chapter 11
Romans 11:2, "Hath God cast away His people? God forbid." Paul wrote about the "stumbling" of Israel, the
"diminishing" (decay) of Israel, but never a final destruction of Israel. God chose Israel for a determined purpose -- His witness
and missionary! He will eventually fulfil her destiny, accomplishing His purpose! "The gifts and calling of God are without
repentance." (irrevocable) Like the prodigal, Israel rebelled and persisted in her unfaithfulness. Jeremiah pronounced judgments.
Lev. 26 came into operation. Babylon took the nation into captivity. Israel was under seventy years of suspension. God's plan
was to have them in the "Land" when the Messiah was born. Though much was done to prepare them, they were not ready yet
for Him.
As Saul of Tarsus on the Damascus road was ignorant that his destiny was intimately entwined with the Person of Jesus
whom he was seeking to destroy, so likewise, Israel ignores the fact that her final destiny is closely linked with Jesus whom they
persecute and treat as an imposter. Saul was Jewish in every way. "Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe
of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews, as touching the law, Pharisee, concerning zeal, persecuting the church." Yet when Ananias
brought many accusations against him, God said of him, "He is a chosen vessel unto me to bear my Name before the Gentiles."
He had a wonderful preparation -- Roman citizenship, Greek culture, Jewish blood. He represented in his person the three great
currents of his day -- Roman law, Hebrew religion, Greek culture. God had only to convert Saul and use his qualities.
At this time the enemy was using every power at his disposal to stop the advance of this Christian Faith. Saul was in the
midst of the work of opposition and extermination. Acts 9:1, "Saul yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the
disciples of the Lord." But on the Damascus Road all came to a sudden stop. A Light from Heaven, a Voice from Heaven that
only Saul understood, calling him by name, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" He hadn't had the slightest idea that the
Jesus he was persecuting was the Lord of Heaven. It was the greatest awakening of his life. He made an about face -- "Lord,
what wilt Thou have me to do?" That Vision and Voice brought a profound change. He passed from Judaism to Jesus, from
darkness to Light, from death to Life. This fanatical Jew became a Christian, the persecutor became persecuted. Saul became
Paul. Like Saul of Tarsus on the road to Damascus, armed with letters of authority to persecute any of "this way," today the
Jewish people are on the road of rebellion against Jesus as their Messiah. But, as Saul was brought low and converted, so
likewise the Jewish nation will be humbled and changed by the glorious coming of Jesus. A repentant Israel will accept Him as
their long-awaited Messiah and Saviour! God will use them, like Paul to proclaim His way.
This truth is prefigured in Jonah who was brought low and converted to go and preach to the Gentiles. Israel, like Jonah, was
swallowed up in the sea of nations and miraculously preserved. Jonah gives us a glimpse of Calvary, in his willingness to be
sacrificed to save the souls on the ship. We can also discern in this history a living parable of Jonah's people (Israel), her
miraculous deliverance to complete her miraculous mission, -- to teach the Gentiles God's ways. Israel, as one alive from the
dead, will be recommissioned to carry God's message to the nations. This helps us to understand why God miraculously
preserved and re-established and now sustains a nation which is anti-Jesus! I Corinthians 15:45 gives another view, "That was
not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterwards that which is spiritual." Just as the natural Adam came before
the spiritual, so the earthly, material, political regathering of Israel is first, and afterwards the second will be the spiritual rebirth.
The second will take place as surely as the first took place in 1948. Israel will survive all present attempts to destroy her, because
she has a date with destiny, she is the target of prophecies. She must receive the just retribution for her sins. No other nation's
sins are as cumulative or repetitive. I Thessalonians 2:15, "who killed the Lord Jesus Christ and their prophets and have
persecuted us. They please not God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved,
to fill up their sins always; for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost." We know that in 70 A.D. God's judgment came
upon Israel to even this score, especially for the blood that they asked to be upon them and their children. But Israel did not
repent as a nation, and still has a long bill of transgressions, a big account that awaits settlement. There is trouble ahead. She
knows it. Her destiny is not hidden. It has been spiritualized, prophesied and foretold from Genesis to Zechariah. It's an old
experience, a host of enemies at her borders, surrounded and cornered. She's looking for a way out, for support. Still the
descendants of Ishmael persecute her, but now joined by Asiatics and Russians. Where will she turn? To God? Not yet! It would
seem that she will yield to the "strongman" concept whom Daniel names, "The Prince of the Covenant." She'll appeal to the
Blasphemer for aid against her sworn foes. The struggle for world supremacy is approaching -- could Israel be the spark that
starts the conflagration? Zechariah 12:2-3, are in the making. Israel will survive -- for there will be a second advent. She is the
guarantee of this truth. She will receive and welcome her Messiah, Jesus. Types teach us: Joseph was rejected by his brethren,
Moses by his, and also David. Yet all came back to reign and govern and save those who rejected them. The second time, all
were accepted -- so will Jesus be! Keep in mind Zechariah 12:10. A replay of the "time of Jacob's trouble." After the horrors of
darkness -- a glorious sunrise!
Chapter 12
We find three prophetic centres in the Bible. (1) Palestine - geographic centre, (2) Israel - national centre, and (3) Christ
- spiritual centre! Palestine, the Promised Land, and often called "Holy Land," because it was promised to Abram and his
descendants and above all because Christ was born, lived, died and resurrected there. It became desolate, nearly a desert. It has
been restored. Israel didn't exist as a nation for 1900 years, yet hundreds of prophecies have been made and many fulfilled in
regards to this people. The nation has been restored. There will certainly be a spiritual restoration as well. Christ was mocked
and despised in Jerusalem. He shall be honoured and reverenced there!
Paul is one of the greatest authorities on Israel. He could look from the O.T. side and from the N.T. side. He knew the
good about Israel and also the bad. Had God rejected His people? (cast away His people?) Has God no further purpose in mind
for them? Paul's answer is unqualified, "God forbid." It was unthinkable! I Sam. 12:22, Samuel uses these same words and
promises. David reaffirms it in Ps 94:14 and Jer. 31:37. God has an everlasting contract with this nation. Just as the devil uses
every means to stamp out the Truth, he is just as anxious to stamp out this nation. He is rallying other nations to accomplish his
diabolic ends. He will never succeed in either case! The greatest of all redemptive miracles is scheduled, the remnant of an entire
nation will be turned around. It will be instantly. Paul saw this by divine revelation. He didn't want the Gentile saints to be in the
dark about this. All this is to happen apart from the church which included both Jews and Gentiles. "The elect had obtained it
and the rest were blinded." That's their condition now. There are Jews who are saved and that has been the case since the church
was born. Paul sees beyond this. The hardening of the Jews is only temporary and partial. This callousness will cease. It only
lasts until the full number of Gentiles comes in. Jesus mentions this. James used it in Acts 15:16, "After this I will return and
build again the tabernacle of David." When God has visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His Name... then will
God resume His unfinished business with His ancient people, "the Jews." The key word is until. "Until the fullness of the
Gentiles be brought in." Luke 21:24, "until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." The gospel ingathering will cease and the
spiritual miracle of Israel will begin. Some Gentiles were saved before the time of the Gentiles -- the Syrophoenician woman,
the centurion also of Luke. And there will be the Jews saved before the time of the Gentiles be fulfilled. However, there is a time
limit. Paul knew prophecy. Isaiah, "The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will banish ungodliness from Jacob and this shall be
My covenant with them when I take away their sins." This is God's contract. It's His decree, mentioned as "My covenant." "The
Deliverer will banish ungodliness from Jacob." It shall be accomplished supernaturally. Israel's restoration is far more than a
political miracle or economic revival. It is linked with repentance and religious renewal. Romans 11:11. There is a dual
relationship to God in this nation. They are enemies to the gospel -- hence, rejected. They are also beloved, "For God hath
concluded them all in unbelief that He might have mercy upon all." The divine purpose always over-rules! God foresaw
rebellion. He makes it serve His purpose. God's sovereignty is not so limited that He cannot overcome the thwarting of His
immediate will. Israel's rejection of Jesus when He came in the flesh does not mean the "divine plan" has failed. The gospel is
preached. "Concerning the gospel: they are enemies, but as touching the election, they are beloved." The Seed was God's choice.
The "why" is in His eternal heart. God owes it to His friends away back. There is something eternal between Himself and
Abram, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David and the prophets. It will never be revoked or rescinded. Gen. 17:19, "I will establish with
him an everlasting covenant and with his seed after him." Luke 1:54-55, "God spake to Abram and to his seed forever." The
"forever" is there. The contract is not on merit, but on God's faithfulness to His word and promise. Romans 11:31. The Jews who
have proved disobedient during the period of God's mercy to the Gentiles will themselves receive mercy as a nation when the
times of Gentiles will have run their course. God's total purpose to man is to show mercy! The Gentiles do not deserve it. Israel
does not deserve it. Paul points to the character of God, not to the character of man. It is not what other nations might like to do.
It is what God intends to do. Unchangeableness is God's characteristic. Politics change, foreign policy changes as does man's
mind and means, but God never changes! He never goes back on what He has undertaken to do. His attitude is reflected in His
dealings with Israel, neither arbitrary nor capricious, it is consistent. He has never stopped loving. He loved Israel then, He loves
Israel now. He will always love Israel. If God stopped loving us, where would we be? He loved us before we loved Him. Paul
lists God's gifts to Israel -- Romans 9:4-5, "to whom pertaineth the adoption, glory, the covenants, the law, service of God and
the promises, whose are the fathers and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed forever.
Amen." These are gifts of "grace" and not of "merit." They cannot be revoked because of demerit. Israel's unfaithfulness does
not cancel out God's faithfulness. What is the "Call of God" to Israel? It is to recognize Jesus as Christ. This must be fulfilled
before her mission is fulfilled. Israel has become a nation -- regathered. What is God's purpose in this? It is for Israel to
recognize her King! That is her title deed to the property. It cannot be revoked by any power on earth. For this reason God
spared a remnant at Jerusalem's destruction. Again He will spare -- a remnant shall be cut off, "a third part refined as silver and
tried as gold and they shall call on My Name and I will say, 'It is My people.'"
Chapter 13
The thirty pieces of silver that Judas cast down in the temple before he went and hanged himself, were used to buy a
Potter's field to bury strangers in -- a graveyard! How true this became for much of Palestine and especially Jerusalem. Looking
down from the Mt. of Olives, which is some 200 feet higher than the Temple site, the Dome of the Rock -- It is an impressive
panorama! The old city seems so small, so dense, so compact together as if it were hurting. First, there is the sense of history. So
many things have happened to this ancient city. It has been the focus of more attention, invested with more significance, stirred
more hopes, inspired more rivalry, seen more wars and endured more suffering than any other place on earth. Second, the
number of graveyards! Cemeteries have buried cemeteries. The subsurface of the city is literally filled with bones. Palestine lies
as a bridge between Asia and Africa, between Assyria and Egypt, between powerful nations and divers cultures. Everybody
treads on a bridge. This has been true of Israel. It has been a battlefield, where horsemen and chariots, brave warriors of so many
lands have clashed: Philistines, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Arabs, Persians have fought over this land. Its cities have been
battered. Its people have been killed, captured and carried away. In the Middle Ages from 8 to 9 Crusades, huge volunteer
armies were raised -- so-called Christian! They pillaged and plundered both friend and foe, as they were sent to Palestine to
wrestle the Holy Lands from the Turks or Arabs. Most of the Crusaders never returned -- their bones were left there! Even in this
our day, one is struck by the graveyards. Outside of Behra Sheba today there is a cemetery of some 7,000 crosses. These are the
dead, fallen in WWI. General Allenby's British Army that marched up from Egypt to rescue the Holy Lands from the Turks.
Also, Haifa as well as Jerusalem have large graveyards; not of Jews, but strangers -- mostly New Zealanders, Australians and
South Africans. The irony, that Jerusalem, where so many have fought and died, where so many bones of so many people and
nations are mingled together, should be called, "the City of Peace."
We know "Peace" must come to this troubled land. Isaiah 19:23-25 has always intrigued me. It speaks of a "highway"
out of Egypt to Assyria,... Israel shall be the third... even a blessing in the midst of the land... Blessed be Egypt my people,..." I
only know what I read in the Bible. I don't know when nor how this shall be fulfilled. I certainly believe it will come to pass -- it
is God's word of prophecy. Here, Israel will be a "bridge" again, but not a clash and buffer, but a "go-between." God intended
the Jews to be a blessing to all people, to be a missionary to all nations. This will demand great changes, conversion that only
God can bring about. Assyria and Egypt shall serve the God of Jacob. Contest will give way to cooperation. God intended the
Jews to make friends and influence neighbours." God is not on the side of chronic quarrelling, nor is He on the side of isolation
and segregation.
Let us not forget that Paul wrote in I Thessalonians 5:2, "The Lord shall come as a thief in the night. For when they shall
say, peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape."
Any present peace plans, are not the fulfilment of Is. 19, though they could be the "lull before the storm." The greatest storms are
yet ahead. Crisis and conflicts, armed truces seem to be world history. Jesus spoke of "wars and rumours of wars; see that ye be
not troubled, for all these things must come to pass but the end is not yet." However, He mentioned later of worse things to
come, "signs in sun, moon and stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the seas and waves roaring. Men's
hearts failing them for fear and looking after those things which are coming on the earth; for the powers of Heaven shall be
shaken, and then shall they see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with power and great glory!"
How can we reconcile two apparently different accounts of the Lord's coming? The last account does not speak of
"peace and safety." Here, again, I feel satisfied that both accounts are accurate and will happen exactly as they are described. As
there are really two comings of Jesus mentioned in the scriptures. First, for His Bride, then, with His Bride. First, "sending forth
His angels to gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." Jesus cannot come "with all
His saints" until He has first gathered them together from the four winds of the earth and the end of heaven to the other. Perhaps
the "lull" is before He comes to gather them, and the "storm" when He comes with "all His saints," and His holy angels, in
power and great glory! Zechariah 14 seems to bear out this truth. We read of "all nations gathered against Jerusalem to battle;
the city shall be taken, the houses rifled, women ravished, half of the city shall go forth into captivity. and a residue shall not be
cut off. It speaks of Jesus returning, His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mt. of Olives. Vs. 7, God will come, and take sides
with the defeated nation -- "It shall be one day, known to the Lord, not day nor night -- the evening time it shall be light." Some
likeness to Joshua's day, when the "sun stood still" so they could continue the battle to a successful end. Natural phenomenon
will cause more consternation than the earthquake in Uzziah's day. The conclusion of the whole matter, "The Lord my God shall
come and all the saints with thee." Vs. 9, "The Lord shall be King over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord and His
Name one." Man has always looked to the land and sea for his substance, but when the land is desert and the sea dead, he looks
in vain. Here we read, living waters shall go out from Jerusalem, there shall be no more desert, no more dead sea!
Chapter 14
"This generation shall not pass away, until all these things be fulfilled. Heaven and Earth shall pass away, but my words
shall not pass away." These are abiding things! There is a double pattern in this framework regarding "this generation" that can
have two meanings: generation as a race of people, or as a period of time. We see that the Jewish race has not passed away. For
nearly two thousand years they have been a scattered people dispersed among the nations, yet they remain a distinct and separate
folk. They have not lost their identity, their language, or their law. This is no small miracle! Far greater nations have totally
disappeared, become extinct. The Jews still remain. They are one of the foremost signs of the times. Only as Israel became a
nation again could the fulfilment of certain prophecies be possible. Notice the double pattern here. Jesus said, "When ye see all
these things come to pass, know ye that the Kingdom of God is nigh at hand." "All things" refers to the prophecies Jesus had just
given. "This generation" that saw these things would not pass away till all would be fulfilled. Religious deception, wars and
famines are among the things mentioned. There have always been false prophets and false christs, but nothing like what will
happen in "this generation"! "If it were possible," they would deceive the very elect. There have been famines before, yet never
in the scale and scope that "this generation" shall see fulfilled; famines brought on by population explosion, in a time of
changing weather patterns, a shortage of crops just when there are many more mouths to feed. Could we be "this generation",
among those that shall see "all these things"?
We have several similar time patterns in the New Testament. Jesus said to the woman who sought to comfort Him on
the way to the cross, "Weep not for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For behold, the days are coming in the
which they shall say, 'Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bare and the paps which never gave suck'." Here He was
speaking of the destruction of Jerusalem with its famine, pestilence and slaughter. This occurred about 40 years after Jesus spoke
these words. That is, it happened in "that generation."! Jesus also spoke in the same breath to those women of His second
coming. "Then shall they (not ye) begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us', to the hills, 'Cover us'!" Revelation 6 gives us
details on what Jesus touched upon here. When will the latter occur? Some believe "this generation" is the time from the
establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 as a nation until the rapture?? We dare not speculate. Jesus made it clear that no one
would know the day or the hour of His coming. Yet it seems He expected us to recognize "this generation". This fits in well with
the warnings that Jesus gave regarding the days of Noah. "They were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until
the day Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came and took them all away! So shall the coming of the Son of
Man be. Also in the days of Lot, they did eat, drank, bought, they sold, planted, they builded. But the same day that Lot went out
of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and "destroyed them all." There seems to be a definite point here. There were
great sins in the days of Noah and also in the days of Lot. But Jesus doesn't talk at all about such. It is not normally sinful to buy
or sell, eat or drink, marry or be given in marriage. His thought: these people were being specially warned, but they went about
business as usual. They did not recognize what time it was! God was fed up with that generation and purposed to do away with
it, sought to warn them of impending judgment. They were unmoved though repeatedly informed of coming doom over a long
period. Had they recognized their sins and repented, they would have been saved. But this indifference produced unawareness
which brought about the second consequence. After a period of warning, God removed His people in both incidents. Then
judgment fell.
Jesus said it would be just like that when He comes again. He even described how His own would be removed. "Two
men shall be in a field, one shall be taken and the other left. Two women grinding at the mill, one shall be taken and the other
left. Two in a bed, one taken and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come!" So
outstanding here: God removing His own before the judgment. This is commonly known as the First Resurrection. Paul writes,
"The dead in Christ shall rise first, then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to
meet the Lord in the air. So shall we ever be with the Lord." This immediately precedes a "Time of Judgment of God" upon this
Christless world. Some are led to believe this will be a period of seven years, and God will use this Time of Judgment to further
His work in Israel, turn them more and more Godward, preparing them to meet and greet their Lord as He returns from the
Wedding! The elect will be delivered from this Period of Judgment, just as Noah and his family were delivered from the
destruction of the Flood.
There is another double pattern here. It will be a time of great hope for the elect, but a time of great despair for others.
Jesus taught His own not to be dismayed or troubled, but "lift up your heads as your redemption draweth nigh." For the others
there will be distress and perplexity, "men's hearts failing them for fear and for looking after those things which are coming on
the earth, for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. It's at the beginning, not the end, of these things that His own are to "look up
and lift up your heads for your redemption draweth nigh. And they shall see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and
great glory." It's the one who is left behind that will see this, and NOT be a part, not share in His coming! Let us lay hold to this
Hope this Blessed Hope, be part and parcel of those "caught up to meet the Lord in the air" and not left behind to suffer
impending judgment due to befall this sinful world. Jesus said to the Pharisees, "O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the
sky, but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" What a contrast to read of Issachar's warriors, among David's mighty men,
"who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do." We thank God for such men among us today!
Chapter 15
God had Israel foreknown and foreworked into His plan as a chosen tool for His Work in the world. For this reason
Israel's place and part in God's Kingdom is not over; even though the great majority of the Jews remain blind and hardened as in
Elijah's day. Israel had sunk to about its worst, under Ahab and Jezebel. They had broken God's covenant, torn down His altars
and persecuted His prophets. This is always the "down-ward trend" when people get wrong. Elijah felt alone, a prophet of the
Lord. But God saw the positive side; 7000 in Israel who had not bowed to Baal. This was the "Rest according to the election of
Grace". God had not cast off His folk, it was just a time of sifting and sorting. God was looking on and taking note of those who
were "not bowing to knowingly wrong." It was Grace.
Romans 11:7; Israel had not obtained that "which he seeketh for..." What was that? God's Righteousness. They sought it
through their works, through the law and their own ways. The "Rest", the few that had not bowed willingly to wrong, obtained
it; what they had not sought. The others were blinded (hardened). As in John 6, many said, "This is a hard saying, who can hear
it?" They turned back and walked no more with Jesus. Peter said, "Thou hast the words of eternal life." The same message
hardened those who were not willing for His work in their lives! Like clay and wax in the sun; clay becomes hard, wax becomes
soft. Peter's heart was soft; "To whom shall we go, Thou hast the words of eternal life." The others remained unrepentant and
unyielding to His Word. The scripture Paul uses to explain this blindness was prophesied: verse 8, "God had given them the
spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear." We only have to read a few verses farther on
in Isaiah 29, from where Paul was quoting, to see the reason why; "Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth and
with their lips do honour me, but have removed their hearts far from me." Nothing puts people to sleep quicker than just doing
things as a form, routine, no heart or love for it. Also the next scripture he cites, verse 9, "Let their table be made a snare, and a
trap, and a stumbling block..." How true that is. What we feed upon cannot help but influence our lives and our choices. Moses
foresaw this too. Deuteronomy 32, feeding and not doing, we read; "They have waxen fat, grew thick and kicked... forsook the
Lord and lightly esteemed the Rock of His salvation." They brought this condition upon themselves. Take heed lest we be
hearers only.
Verse 11, Paul describes how God used their failure (hardness) to an advantage. "Through their fall, salvation is come to
the Gentiles." Also, the Gentiles accepting the Gospel they were refusing would provoke them to jealousy; made to feel they had
forfeited something! Paul even goes farther into the future; "For if the casting away of them be the reconciliation of the world,
what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?"
Verse 16, Paul uses a picture taken from the plant kingdom; "If the root is holy, so are the branches." This root is the
True Israel; the prophets were Jews! Abram was the father of the Jewish race. "And if some of the branches be broken off and
thou a wild olive tree grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree, boast not against
the branches: if thou boast thou bearest not the roots, but the roots thee!" God has performed the impossible, grafting the wild
olive into the true olive! How much more so can He graft the natural branches into His own olive tree.
It was only the goodness of God that the Gentiles were called to fill a place and have a part in His Kingdom. So wild by
nature! So foreign to the Will and Way of God that He had been working down through the ages through the descendants of
Abraham. Yes, God can cast us away too, as He did the natural branches, if we don't remain true and faithful, humble and
thankful. Should we become proud; think "we are it," the elect, the blessed ones and others are outcast, outside, hopeless and
doomed. Then we are being leavened with the same leaven that destroyed Israel. Paul rightly writes, we should rather fear lest
the same thing happen to us. Let us learn from their mistakes! Except for the Grace of God, that would be me! Paul goes farther;
the reinstating of Israel is a "mystery"! But that we should not be "ignorant of this mystery, lest we be wise in our own conceit."
He explains that this blindness (hardness, in the margin) has two aspects: (1) only in part, (2) only for a time, "until the fullness
of the Gentiles be come in." Revised, "until the full number is reached." God is to gather in a certain number from among the
Gentiles; until the last member of the Body of Christ is added -- then the Body will be complete! Then God will send forth His
angels to gather His elect, another period, another epoch will begin. Jesus used this same expression, "The fullness of the
Gentiles." Then it will be Israel's turn again! In Luke 14 we have this message, "Yet there is room." Jesus made this clear in the
last verses of Matthew 23, the devil would not have the last word. Jesus left the Temple for the last time, it was no longer God's
house, "Your house is left unto you desolate (empty)." "Ye shall not see me henceforth till ye shall say, 'Blessed is He that
cometh in the Name of the Lord.'" The Jews still do not bless Jesus' Name! They don't believe in Him as Messiah; but that
MUST TAKE PLACE, before JESUS will receive them! Thus some great changes must take place, so they will accept Him
when He comes to reign. The gifts and calling of God are without repentance (irrevocable); that God has concluded them all in
unbelief, (now the Jews) that He might have mercy upon them all. Romans 9, "The free will of God", Chapter 10, "The
righteousness of God", Chapter 11, "The mercy of God". No wonder Paul closes this chapter with a song.
Chapter 16
Jesus often spoke with a "double prospective": Matthew 10:23, "When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into
another, for verily I say unto you, ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Man be come." Jesus had just
sent forth the 12, "but, go not into the way of the Gentiles and into any of the cities of the Samaritans, enter ye not; but, go rather
to the lost sheep of the House of Israel." Yet He spoke of His return! That hasn't happened yet. Luke 23:28,30. (See Chapter 14
of these notes, the second paragraph.) Jesus being led to the cross, a great company of people and of women which also
bewailed and lamented Him. Jesus turned to them saying, "Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves
and for your children, for behold the days are coming, in which they shall say, 'Blessed are the barren and the womb that never
bear..." Pointing to the destruction of Jerusalem, God's judgment upon that nation for rejecting the Christ. Then Jesus presented
again this "double prospective" or expiration, verse 30, "Then shall they begin to say to the mountains 'Fall on us' and the hills,
'Cover us'" This is definitely speaking of His return mentioned in Revelation 6 with the question, "Who shall be able to stand?"
Jesus is talking about "suffering and judgment" happening at two different times and also to two different peoples. First
the judgment against Israel; totally destroyed, thousands crucified and perishing through pestilence, sword and famine. Luke
21:22-24, "For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled: but woe unto them that are with
child and them that give suck in those days. For there shall be great distress in the land (Israel), and wrath upon this people
(Jews)."
Nations are judged in this world, not before the judgment seat of Christ, where we shall be judged as individuals, not as
French, Spanish, German, English or American! We only have to read Isaiah to see that happening. Chapter 15, Burden of
Moab. Because in the night, Ar of Moab is laid waste. Chapter 17, Burden of Damascus. Behold Damascus is taken away from
being a city; it shall be a ruinous heap. Verse 10, "Because thou hast forgotten the God of thy salvation." Chapter 23, Burden of
Tyre. "Ye ships of Tarshish, for it is laid waste, so that there is no house, no entering." God's prophecies of the destruction of this
great city, the England of the BC era; carrying commerce to the most distant places known at that time, hundreds of years
beforehand. God's judgment is given in detail. You can go and see for yourself, today; there remain many proofs of what was
said so long ago!
God's year of Grace came to an end. His patience expired forty years after the crucifixion of Christ. There is another
expiration date, a double prospective. We can blame the Jews, but we owe so much to them; God using them to bring about His
prophecies, promises, and "of whom, concerning the flesh, Christ came....!" Romans 9:4-5. They were not spared, but judged
(Luke 21:22-24) for nearly two thousand years scattered, without flag, government, representation of any kind! What nation is
better today? Nations of today shall not escape, but be judged in this world. That's the second expiration; pretty much the same
suffering, pestilence, famine, etc. coming upon them. That is why some of these "doubles" seem like the same events. However,
it is His judgment coming at two different times and to different nations!
The devil is just as anxious to destroy the Jewish nation today as he is to destroy the true testimony that God has raised
up in our day! Israel has often been punished for their sins. They were carried away into Babylon for seventy years for many
reasons; one, they never kept the sabbath year. God brought them back. Why? They had paid their debt, paid in full. He also
brought them back, rebuilt the Temple, the walls of Jerusalem, the city, and the nation, so Jesus could come. He was sent to the
Jews, not to the nations! How could He come to them if they had remained scattered among the nations? Now, God has gathered
them again in our day. May 1948, Israel became a nation again, after nearly two thousand years! A miracle! The moment the
British Protectorate expired, the United Nations handing Palestine back to the Jews, all the Arabic nations, far and wide, joined
forces to destroy this budding nation! God saved it! It became a nation again! Why? So Jesus can return! How can the scriptures
be fulfilled, Zechariah 14, all nations gathered against Jerusalem to destroy it, if the Jews are not in the land? How can His feet
touch down on the Mount of Olives, and the Lord go forth to fight against those nations, as He fought in the Day of Battle; fight
for the Jews, if they are not in the Land? How can a residue of the people ╕not╕ be cut off from the city, if they are not there?
Jerusalem is the "bone of contention" of all nations! It could never be without the Jews being there! If an Arab got killed by
lightning, he'd blame it on a Jew!
Chapter 17
Out of its bareness of nearly two thousand years a nation has sprung up again. This is the present day miracle, the
political rebirth of Israel. This must precede the spiritual rebirth. There was the return to Palestine, after the seventy years of
captivity. No doubt the present rebirth is entwined with that one! God returned them to their land so Christ could come, to fulfil
the Scriptures of the "first coming of Christ." Now He has returned them after nearly two thousand years to have them again in
the land, preparing for Christ's second advent. Some of these scriptures definitely have the second advent in mind: "I will cause
them to dwell safely!" and again, "they shall not be plucked up, nor thrown down any more forever!" Under the law, it was, "If
ye will." Now He says, "I will." Back then, obedience sprang from faithfully keeping the law. Now God is carrying out His will
and fulfilling His promises. This rests upon God's ability to perform. God is now dealing with individuals. God then will be
dealing with a nation! This contract is to be made with the physical descendants of Abraham and not just his spiritual Seed.
Romans 11:26. The church today is composed of both Jews and Gentiles without national distinctions. It would be impossible
for the church to fulfil these promises made to a nation. And this contract cannot be implemented until after the period of this
nation's tribulation and her deliverance by the advent of the Messiah! (The second coming of Christ!)
When Israel's spiritual birth occurs, there will be no doubt about it; Israel will be acknowledged by all nations. There
will be universal recognition that "they are a people blessed of God." "Their seed shall be known among the Gentiles and their
offspring among the people; all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the Seed which the Lord has blessed." A
nation that is cursed today, will be a nation that is blessed tomorrow! Ezra, Jeremiah, and Isaiah as well as minor prophets saw
many of these same Truths! "Come ye, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the House of the God of Jacob; and He will
teach us His ways, and we will walk in His paths, for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the Word of the Lord from
Jerusalem. And He shall judge among the nations and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into
ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any
more." That is not fulfilled yet, but will be at the spiritual rebirth, at His second advent! As well as many other scriptures!
The nation of Israel now gathered in Palestine cannot be erased. Israel will survive all present attempts to destroy her,
because she must receive just retribution for her sins. No nations are so cumulative or repetitive. It is a long bill of transgression,
a frightening account that awaits settlement. She has broken God's laws with impunity. I Thessalonians 2:14-16. She has slain
the greatest preachers and prophets which God sent to her. Israel is in a corner; surrounded, no longer scattered, there is a nation!
Her present dilemma, a dreadful picture that confronts her; hosts of enemies at her borders! In due time Arabs could be joined by
the Russians! Where will she turn for help? Israel will survive all present attempts to destroy her, because she will receive and
welcome her Messiah, at last. There will be a second advent. Israel guarantees this: Christ came the first time in humiliation, to
die. Israel passed judgment: it was hard and harsh. It was shouted in anger, "We will not have this man to reign over us." Yet He
was the best of heaven and earth, Jesus, their own Son! Her religious leaders said, "We have no king but Caesar." Prophecies
predicted His rejection. Old Testament types illustrate it so vividly: Joseph was rejected by his brethren, David was rejected by
his brethren, Moses was rejected by his brethren! Yet all came back to reign and govern, to be salvation to those who had
rejected them. All were accepted the second time! It will happen again to this nation of destiny; "And I will pour upon the house
of David and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the spirit of grace, and of supplication; and they shall look upon Me whom they
have pierced and they shall mourn for Him as one mourneth for his only son and shall be in bitterness for Him as one is in
bitterness for his firstborn! ... the land shall mourn, etc."
Jesus said, "This generation (race) shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled." It will never be annihilated. Against
Christ's statement all hell has been turned loose but the Jewish race still stands today! The final attempt will be made. Several
attempts to annihilate have been made; Herods, Hamans and Hitlers have already come and gone, passed into history. This race
has survived. It flourishes while many civilizations passed away! Why? If the devil could destroy this race, then the promises of
redemption could be thwarted. Why should this madness continue? Why should further attempts of annihilation be unloosed?
Jesus is coming a second time. This is hell's last attempt to thwart the Word of God. Every demon and evil spirit knows that
Christ is about to come again, since the Word declares that His nail-pierced feet will touch down on the Mount of Olives! He
shall come to deliver the Jewish race, so pressed upon by her adversaries! Hell, itself, is rising to a crescendo effort to obliterate
the Jew, to wipe out this nation, so that Christ will have no nation to come to! What we see developing is a test of God's Word!
The greatest test, attempt, of all time, is yet underway. When it looks the most hopeless and impossible, God will undertake.
Israel would not survive except by direct intervention of God. Daniel 12 and Zechariah 14.
D.D.K.